Letter 314

314. Without address, concerning a servant

And how was I to overlook so fitting an occasion for a letter, and not greet your honour, when this man was coming to you? He would have been able, of himself, to tell you our news and to fulfil the office of a letter; but he wished also to become the bearer of a letter, because he loves us greatly and is attached to us with his whole soul. In every way he wishes both to carry back your words and to be of service to you.

We have given him, then, this letter, by which, first, we pray for you all good things—both those that this life holds and all those that are laid up and kept in store, the blessedness promised in the promises; and next, we entreat the holy God that a second meeting with you may be granted to us, while we are still upon the earth. That you will, for our sake, multiply your love toward the aforesaid brother, I do not doubt. So be entreated to give him proof of it in deed.