Letter 1008: A praise letter for a civic benefactor who did not use eloquence to avoid duty.

Know that what I now send is small after great gifts. And the things I call great are greater not only than crocus and storax, but even than the possessions once held by the great king of the Medes. What are these things that surpass even his wealth? The reputation that has come through your words and deeds, both to you and to me: so great has been your generosity toward the city, and so frequent and timely your displays of eloquence. You alone among men now living, and with only a few of the ancients, have joined these things together. You possessed, if you had wished it, exemption through your eloquence, but you did not choose to use it. For this, I think you enjoy the goodwill of the gods, who gave you eloquence and wish eloquence to be eloquence, and who care for the safety and splendor of cities. For a long time now we have enjoyed the benefit of you, and you have restrained those who would most gladly criticize my affairs.