To Caesarius. (358/359)
Your letter has imitated the Spartans. They too arrived at Marathon after the battle was over, though they had resolved to help [a famous story from Herodotus]. Just so, your letter urges me to look after your sons -- young men who already have enough standing here to provide that kind of service to others.
Do not be surprised that they have gained so much so quickly, being as good and as devoted to learning as they are. Whoever comes to me with those qualities is immediately judged ahead of the rest and finds me willing to oblige. It also helps them considerably that they are your sons -- for everyone who has mentioned you has mentioned you with praise.
Shall I add a fourth reason? Your brother Eusebius was my fellow student. And this I figured out on my own, recognizing the family connection from the younger one's face.
Your letter has imitated the Spartans. They too arrived at Marathon after the battle was over, though they had resolved to help [a famous story from Herodotus]. Just so, your letter urges me to look after your sons -- young men who already have enough standing here to provide that kind of service to others.
Do not be surprised that they have gained so much so quickly, being as good and as devoted to learning as they are. Whoever comes to me with those qualities is immediately judged ahead of the rest and finds me willing to oblige. It also helps them considerably that they are your sons -- for everyone who has mentioned you has mentioned you with praise.
Shall I add a fourth reason? Your brother Eusebius was my fellow student. And this I figured out on my own, recognizing the family connection from the younger one's face.
Modern English rendering for readability. See the 19th-century translation or original Latin/Greek for scholarly use.