Letter 119: Theodore Studite, Letter 119; Greek heading: Τῷ αὐτῷ.

You have instructed us sufficiently, beloved child, about the things that have happened and are now at hand, and indeed by word of mouth through the brother [the courier]. Since, then, we ought in all things to give thanks to the Lord and to contribute according to our ability to our brethren, on this account, as much gold as the brother was carrying from benefactors, and as I too had here, apart from a little for [my own] need, I have sent to you. And become a helper of those in need of help, just as I have directed through the brother; for it is to this end that our good God has left you [free]. Finding a trustworthy brother, send a letter to the ten; for I have [already] sent, and for the time being it is not necessary. But if not, at least [send] a blessing [eulogia, a token gift]. To the fourth [person] I have written; but if concerning another person also, whether of our own people or of the others, whenever you judge it to be useful, make it known, and if I too approve that it is well, I will write. For it is not fitting to keep silent out of fear of those in power, whenever there is need; for "if anyone draws back," it says, "my soul has no pleasure in him" [Hebrews 10:38]. Against this the emperor, by ordering that we neither teach nor speak at all, sets himself in opposition. But even if we are sinners, we know that we are disciples of those who say: "Judge whether it is right to listen to you rather than to our God" [cf. Acts 4:19]; we cannot, therefore, refrain from speaking the things which we have heard and known [cf. Acts 4:20]. We are on our guard, therefore, also concerning the reports that go out; and indeed, if it is not necessary, we will not even look at those things which you forward. But forward them again, when it is fitting; if you exceed the two weeks without sending, we shall do battle in our reckonings [i.e. fall to anxious thoughts]; but if [you send] within [that time], by no means. Christ be with your spirit, child; pray for me fervently, as I also [pray] for you.