Letter 523: Theodore Studite, Letter 523; Greek heading: Παντολέοντι λογοθέτῃ.

We know that frankness of speech [parrhesia] is something that invites resentment, and we are likewise aware that the present time enjoins reticence upon us. But all the same, the overflowing measure of your unspeakable kindly disposition toward us, lowly as we are, has compelled us to make use, even of this little letter, somewhat more boldly. For it is truly a bold thing not only to bring forward our own affairs, but also to plead on behalf of others. Yet, as has been said, your great kindness and your twofold piety have emboldened us to take this risk. What, then, is the matter to be stated? It concerns Theodotus the protospatharius [a high court dignitary; literally "first sword-bearer"], who, in what distress he is owing to the case of the steward [oikonomos, the administrator] of the church who set out together with him into the West, your insurmountable Eminence assuredly discerns full well. Who else, then, might be found as a helper for the support of the man? Who is more prudent than your magnanimity to perceive what is needful? And who is there at the seat of power who has the immediate moment more at his disposal than your genuine intervention? Grant the mercy that you have received from God, most beloved master, to him who entreats. We prostrate ourselves before your honored footsteps; your counsel is as the counsel of an angel, your voice as a bolt flashing forth both with the brilliance of frank speech and with the radiance of love. And if your suppliant should be deemed worthy to become a partaker of this, he would assuredly come to be somewhere beyond the accusatory arrows of his adversary, as you know with your lofty mind by various means; and we, the lowly, will offer to you many thanksgivings and prayers for the health of both of you, of that truly noble and admirable wedded pair. And perhaps, beyond those who offer gifts of gold, the God-bestowed gift and the kindly favor supplied from the Lord would be no less honorable for you, unto the salvation of your soul together with your body, O most beloved and all-praiseworthy pair.