Letter
CCLXXIX.
3238
To Modestus the Prefect.
Although
so numerous are my
letters, conveyed to your excellency by as many bearers, yet, having
regard to the especial honour you have shewn me, I cannot think that
their large number causes you any annoyance.
I do not hesitate therefore to entrust to this brother
the accompanying letter: I know that he will meet with all that
he wishes, and that you will count me but as a benefactor in furnishing
occasion for the gratification of your kind inclinations. He
craves your advocacy. His cause he will explain in person, if you
but deign to regard him with a favourable eye, and embolden him to
speak freely in the presence of so august an authority. Accept my
assurance that any kindness shewn to him, I shall regard as personal to
myself. His special reason for leaving Tyana and coming to me was
the high value he attached to the presentation of a letter written by
myself in support of his application. That he may not be
disappointed of his hope; that I may continue in the enjoyment of your
consideration; that your interest in all that is good may, in this
present matter, find scope for its full exercise—are the
grounds on which I crave a gracious
reception for him, and a place amongst those nearest to
you.
3238
Placed in the
episcopate.