NPNF2-08. Basil: Letters and Select Works - Holy Bible Institute

To Aburgius.Letter LXXV. 2266To Aburgius. 2267You have many qualities which raise you above the common run of men, but nothingis more distinctly characteristic of you than your zeal for your country. Thus you, who haverisen to such a height as to become illustrious throughout all the world, pay a righteous recompenseto the land that gave you birth. Yet she, your mother city, who bore you andnursed you, has fallen into the incredible condition of ancient story; and no one visitingCæsarea; not even those most familiar with her, would recognise her as she is; to suchcomplete abandonment has she been suddenly transformed, many of her magistrates havingbeen previously removed, and now nearly all of them transferred to Podandus. The remainder,torn from these like mutilated extremities, have themselves fallen into completedespair, and have caused such a general weight of despondency, that the population of thecity is now but scanty; the place looks like a desert, a piteous spectacle to all who love it, anda cause for delight and encouragement to all who have long been plotting for our fall. Whothen will reach out a hand to help us? Who will drop a tear of pity over our faith? You havesympathised with a stranger city in like distress; will not your kindly excellency feel for herwho gave you birth? If you have any influence, show it in our present need. Certainly youhave great help from God, Who has never abandoned you, and has given you many proofsof His kindness. Only be willing to exert yourself in our behalf, and use all the influenceyou have for the succour of your fellow citizens.2266 About the same date as the preceding.2267 cf. Letters xxxiii. cxlvii. clxxviii. cxcvi. and ccciv.502