Letter 344
Late Antiquity Basil of Caesarea Greek- Basil to Libanius That I do not write continually to your erudition, two things persuade me—fear and want of learning; but as for your most resolute silence, what shall acquit it of blame? And if anyone should reckon that you, who pass your very life in eloquence, are reluctant to write, he will condemn you for forgetfulness of us. For the man to whom speaking comes readily is not unready to write. And he who possesses these gifts, yet keeps silent, plainly does so out of disdain or forgetfulness. But I shall requite your silence with a greeting. Farewell, then, most honoured friend, and write if you wish; and do not write, if that is more agreeable to you.