108 (288). To the Guardian of the Heirs of Julitta
SAINT BASIL
ments? If, after the promises made before me and before the ex-prefect, the man now, as if he had said nothing, shortens to such an extent the appointed time, he seems to be absolutely beyond shame before us.
Nevertheless, I have written to him, reprehending him, and reminding him of his promises. I also wrote to Helladius, Z servitor of the prefect, in order that through him the prefect might be informed of your difficulties. For, I did not think that it was appropriate for me, as I had never written to him about any private business, to be so overbold myself with so important an official, and I suspected that I would receive some censure, since, as you know, great men easily become provoked at such things. However, if there is to be any help, it will be through Helladius, a man both honest and well disposed toward us, and one who fears God and enjoys untold freedom of speech with the prefect. Yet, the Holy One can free you of all affliction, if only with a true and sincere heart we place our hope in Him.
108. To the Guardian of the Heirs of Julitta l I was amazed when I heard that, forgetful of your former kind promises, so becoming to your Liberality,2 you were now bringing a most severe and rigid claim against this sister of ours. What I should infer from the reports I do not know. For, I am not only conscious of your great generosity, acknowledged by those who have had experience of it, but 2 Helladius. to whom also Letter 109 is written. is otherwise unknown.
1 This letter is of the same date and on the same subject as the preceding.
2 Eleutheria-Sophocles (Greek Lexicon) questions whether St. Basil is using this at a title. No other instance of its use as such is found.