Letter 923: Libanius urges Optatus to reverse his hostility over Thalassius and publicly reconcile.

When I count up the times you have helped me, saving many people from many troubles at my request, and then look at the insults aimed at me, including those aimed at Thalassius, whom I have made my friend, I cannot believe both came from the same mind. I have often sat with my eyes fixed on the ground, wondering whether the man who should have fought those speaking against me was himself speaking, and wanted others to speak too. Even if you had a complaint, the punishment should not have been so severe. So, my noble friend, let the second act be better, and let it wipe away the first. Be my Stesichorus and sing a recantation. If you do this, everyone will follow; in other matters too, good men listen to you. You have shown me the angry man. Now show me the reconciled one.