Letter 10006: The building in question has been in its current state of disrepair for longer than is consistent with the dignity...

You gave your order to one who serves gladly.

I have been asked to use my influence in a matter that touches your interest as well as mine; I raise it here...

(Written to S. Basil shortly after his Ordination as Priest, probably toward the end of a.d. 362.) I approve the beginning of your letter; but what is there of yours that I do not approve?

1. I have received intelligence from those who come to me from Ancyra, and they are many and more than I can count, but they all agree in what they say, that you, a man very dear to me, (how can I speak so as to give no offense?) do not mention me in very pleasant terms, nor yet in such as your character would lead me to expect. I, however, lear...

Your earlier silence was more creditable than your current defense.