170 (414). To Glycerius
SAINT BASIL
he, in tum, led out his chorus, following young men and dancing around them, and stirring up much sadness among the pious, and much laughter among the intemperate and more flippant. Even this is not enough, although it is of such enormity; but also, when the parents of the virgins, as I hear, not being able to endure the loss of their children, and desiring to lead back again the scattered group, embraced with tears their daughters, as is natural, this admirable young man with his piratical band wantonly insulted and dishonored them.
Let not these things appear tolerable to your Reverence, for the derision touches all of us in common, but, above all, order him to return with the virgins. In fact, he would meet with some kindness if he would come back with a letter from you, but, if he will not, at least send the virgins back to their mother, the Church. If you cannot do this, at all events do not permit those who wish to return to remain under his sway, but command that they return to us. Otherwise, we protest to you, and also to God and to man, that this is not rightly done nor is it according to the laws of the Church. Now, if Glycerius would return with understanding and with proper stability, that is best; if not, let him be deprived of his ministry.
170. To Glycerius1 To what extent do you abandon your common sense, and, while planning unwisely concerning your own actions, both disturb us and shame the whole order of monks? Return, then, trusting in God and in us who imitate His loving kindness.
For, even though we have rebuked you like a father, we shall I On the same subject and of the same date as the preceding letter.