Letter 17
Late Antiquity Basil of Caesarea Greek- To Origenes
Both heard, you gladden us, and read, through what you write, you afford us more vivid joys. And much thanks to the good God, who has allowed the truth to be in no way diminished by the betrayal of those who, supposedly, hold the upper hand, but has fulfilled the advocacy of the word of godliness through you. They, then, like hemlock or aconite, or any other man-slaying herb, having flowered for a little while, will quickly wither away; but to you the Lord will grant a reward, blooming and ever new, for the things spoken on behalf of His name.
In return for which may the Lord also grant you every prosperity of house, and pass on the blessing to your children's children. And your most noble children, the clear stamps of your goodness, I saw with pleasure and embraced, and I pray for them whatever their father himself would pray.