Letter 116: Theodore Studite, Letter 116; Greek heading: Τῷ αὐτῷ.

Whenever I learn that the chelandion-courier [the captain of a chelandion, a Roman warship, here serving as letter-carrier] has merely arrived, until I read the letter I am in a fever of impatience, babbling to myself over what its contents may signify; and this is just what I have now experienced. And so I have learned what has happened, at which, how is it possible for one who hears it not to groan? Above all because Nektarios, that old traitor, is one of those who demand the signed documents of impiety [the written recantations exacted by the iconoclasts]; whom the one in power [the emperor] has made his own envoy, not so much out of need as because he had been reckoned among the fullness of our brotherhood. Grievous indeed, then, are these things, in very truth, yet they are also brimful of joy, that our fathers remain unconquered by the enterprise of our adversaries, through the love of God. But what is the drama of the man of Nicaea, and by all means learn of it so that you may teach me, since it concerns also the superiors who are near at hand. And why have you grieved over us? It comes to nothing. They are brothers, and as brothers they often differ with one another. Pray therefore, my child, that the hand of God may shelter them both, and these matters are trifling. From brother Kledonios I received a note and I was set at rest; in due time I shall write back. And I beg you, since he begged me that you should watch over him and care for him, show also that I have made the request. Greet him too, just as you greet brother Tithoes; and to that one I am sending word by another letter. The brothers send their greetings.