Letter 1048: The justice which you bear in your mind you ought to show in the light of your deeds. Now Juliana, abbess of the monastery of Saint Vitus which Vitula of venerable memory had once built, has intimated to us that possession of the aforesaid monastery is claimed by Donatus, your official; who, seeing himself to be fortified by your patronage, scor...
Book I, Letter 48
To Theodorus, Duke [military governor] of Sardinia.
Gregory to Theodorus.
The justice you hold in your heart should be made visible through your actions. Juliana, abbess of the monastery of Saint Vitus -- originally built by Vitula of honored memory -- has informed us that your official Donatus is claiming ownership of the monastery. Seeing himself protected by your patronage, he refuses to submit the matter to a proper judicial hearing.
We ask Your Glory to direct this official, together with the abbess, to submit the dispute to arbitration. Whatever the arbitrators decide should be carried out, so that whether Donatus gains or loses, the outcome is determined by the justice of the law, not personal influence.
Furthermore, Pompeiana, a religious woman who established a monastery in her own home, has complained that her deceased son-in-law's mother wants to invalidate his will so that his final wishes regarding his property are overturned.
We urge Your Glory, with paternal affection, to lend yourself willingly to just causes and kindly ensure that these persons receive what they have a rightful claim to. We pray the Lord to direct the course of your life favorably and grant you a successful tenure in your distinguished office.
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