Letter 10068: On the question you raised in your last letter about the proper interpretation of the relevant precedent: I think...

The temptation that has already passed quickly loses its edge and turns toward forgetting.

Whether in prosperity or adversity, in public life or in private — the standard of conduct does not change.

The renown of your administration and the fame of your virtues, as well as the praiseworthy zeal and faithful sincerity of your Christian piety — gifts of God which make you rejoice in Him from whom they came, and from whom you hope to receive yet greater things — have moved me to acquaint your Excellency by this letter with the cares which agit...

No, my dear Pylaemenes — I call the god who presides over our friendship to witness — I never dreamed of ridiculing...

I knew both things well: that you would remember our shared request, and that you would set to work — being noble...