Letter 447: Clematius says that those from whom he expected great things gave him little, while those he assumed would ignore...

Even a short letter gives great pleasure when the writer's affection can be measured by the greatness of his soul...

Now, most of all, do I feel my bodily infirmity, when I see how it stands in the way of my soul's good. Had matters gone as I hoped, I should not now be speaking to you by letter or by messenger, but should in my own person have been paying the debt of affection and enjoying spiritual advantage face to face. Now, however, I am so situated that I...

I thought that as soon as you heard the governor was on our side, you yourself would be here.

Avitus, bishop, to the deacon Helpidius.

Once again I have started the well-beloved presbyter Meletius to carry my greeting to you. I had positively determined to spare him, on account of the weakness which he has voluntarily brought upon himself, by bringing his body into subjection for the sake of the gospel of Christ. But I have judged it fitting to salute you by the ministry of suc...