Letter 6011: This letter commends a Jew — not because I approve of the error in which his people perish entangled, but because it...

Sidonius to his lord, Bishop Eleutherius. This letter commends a Jew — not because I approve of the error in which his people perish entangled, but because it is not for us to pronounce any of them wholly damnable while they still live. As long as conversion remains possible, there is still hope of pardon. The details of his business he will explain more accurately in person, face to face. It would be out of keeping with good sense to stretch out the concise form proper to a letter with an elaborate narrative. Since people of this sort tend to have legitimate cases according to earthly law and secular courts, you too can defend this hard-working man's person, even if you oppose his faithlessness. Please remember me in your prayers, my lord bishop.

EPISTULA XI Sidonius domino papae Eleutherio salutem. 1. Iudaeum praesens charta commendat, non quod mihi placeat error, per quem pereunt involuti, sed quia neminem ipsorum nos decet ex asse damnabilem pronuntiare, dum vivit; in spe enim adhuc absolutionis est cui suppetit posse converti. 2. quae sit vero negotii sui series, ipse rectius praesentanea coram narratione patefaciet. nam prudentiae satis obviat epistulari formulae debitam concinnitatem plurifario sermone porrigere. sane quia secundum vel negotia vel iudicia terrena solent huiuscemodi homines honestas habere causas, tu quoque potes huius laboriosi, etsi impugnas perfidiam, propugnare personam. memor nostri esse dignare, domine papa.