Letter 7025: Solemn custom invites us both to send you the distinction of your office and to maintain the ancient order of those...

XXV. FORMULA OF THE LETTER WHICH IS ADDRESSED TO A COUNT FOR THE COMMENDING OF OFFICERS. [1] Solemn custom invites us both to direct to you the adornment of office and to preserve the ancient ranks of those who keep watch. For it is to our credit if the Roman soldiery attends you, since with such ministers you are able to do what seems to accord with the ordinances of old. For thus, with God's help, we have advanced our Goths, so that they are both equipped with arms and ordered by equity. This is what the remaining nations cannot possess: this is what makes you singular, if, accustomed to wars, you are seen to live by laws together with the Romans. [2] Wherefore, out of our office, we have determined that such-and-such men ought to be directed to you, so that, according to ancient custom, he who governs those who obey your orders ought to govern them by reasonable antiquity. To this man you shall, by our order, grant your favor in preserving his provisions and his customary dues. For he ought to be esteemed by you who has merited to be appointed by us.

XXV. FORMULA EPISTULAE, QUAE AD COMMENDANDOS PRINCIPES COMITI DESTINATUR. [1] Invitat nos consuetudo sollemnis et vobis ornatum officii dirigere et pristinos ordines excubantium custodire. nostra enim laus est, si vos militia Romana comitetur, quando talibus ministris potestis agere, quod videtur priscis sanctionibus convenire. sic enim Gothos nostros deo iuvante produximus, ut et armis sint instructi et acquitate compositi. hoc est, quod reliquae gentes habere non possunt: hoc est, quod vos efficit singulares, si assueti bellis videamini legibus vivere cum Romanis. [2] Quapropter ex officio nostro illum atque illum ad vos credidimus esse dirigendos, ut secundum priscam consuetudinem qui tuis iussionibus obsecundant eos rationabili debeat antiquitate moderari. cui gratiam tuam in conservandis annonis et consuetudinibus suis ex nostra iussione praestabis. debet enim a te diligi, qui a nobis meruit destinari.