Nicene and Post-Nicene Church Fathers Series 2 - The Still Small ...

To the guardian of the heirs of Julitta.
Letter CVIII. 2371
I am very much astonished to hear that, after the kind promises which you made and
which were only such as might be expected from your generous character, you have now
forgotten them and are putting violent and stern pressure on our sister. What to think,
under the circumstances, I really do not know. I know from many who have experienced
your liberality, and bear testimony to it, how great it is; and I remember the promises which
you made before me and the ex-prefect. You said that you were naming a shorter time in
writing, but that you would grant a longer term of grace, from your wish to meet the necessities
of the case, and do a favour to the widow, who is now compelled to pay out of her
substance such a large sum of money at once. What is the cause of this change I cannot
imagine. However, whatever it is, I beg you to be mindful of your own generous character,
and to look to the Lord Who requites good deeds. I beg you to grant the time of remission,
which you promised at the outset, that they may be able to sell their property and discharge
the debt. I perfectly well remember that you promised, if you received the sum agreed on,
to restore to the widow all the stipulated documents, as well those which had been executed
before the magistrates as the private papers. I do beg you then, honour me and win great
blessing for yourself from the Lord. Remember your own promises, recognizing that you
are human and must yourself look for that time when you will need God’s help. Do not
shut yourself off from that help by your present severity; but, by showing all kindness and
clemency to the afflicted, attract God’s pity to yourself.
2371 Placed in 372.
To the guardian of the heirs of Julitta.
545