Ep. LXVI.
(The following letter is sometimes attributed to
Basil, and is found in his works as well as in those of Gregory.
The
mss.
however, with only a single
exception, give it to the latter.)
You give me pleasure both by writing and remembering me,
and a much greater pleasure by sending me your blessing in your
letter. But if I were worthy of your sufferings and of your
conflicts for Christ and through Christ I should have been counted
worthy also to come to you, to embrace Your Piety, and to take example
by your patience in your sufferings. But since I am not worthy of
this, being troubled with many afflictions and hindrances I do what is
next best. I address Your Perfection, and I beg you not to be
weary of remembering me. For to be deemed worthy of your letters
is not only profitable to me, but is also a matter to boast of to many
people, and is an honour, because I am considered by a man of so great
virtue, and such near relations with God, that he can bring others also
by word and example into relation to Him.