184 (306). To Eustathius, Bishop of Himmeria
SAINT BASIL
that nowhere is there a Senate so esteemed and distinguished for good works as yours at present proclaimed for its zeal in good works, I almost feel grateful for what has been ordained.
For, if this affliction had not occurred, your excellence would not have shone through. Therefore, it seems that, what the furnace is for gold, 2 this the affliction endured for our hope in God is for those who seek after some virtue. Come, then, admirable men, see that you bring forth subsequent labors worthy of those already accomplished, and that you show you are placing on a mighty foundation a more illustrious finishing touch. When the Lord grants that he appear on his own throne, stand about the shepherd of the Church, narrating the various achievements each of you has accomplished for the Church of God in proportion to your labors. But, by being mindful of us and writing as often as may be possible, you will not only act rightly in answering us, but at the same time you will give us not a little pleasure by sending us through your letters visible symbols of a voice most sweet to us.
184. To Eustathius, Bishop of Himmeria 1 I know that orphanhood is a condition of sadness and much work because it entails the loss of those set over us. Therefore,
I infer that your Reverence, too, being saddened by what has happened, does not WTite to us and is at the same time even more engaged now in visiting the flocks of Christ because the enemies are rising up from every side. But, since conversa2 Cf. Provo 17.~ and 27.21.
I Himmeria was in Osrhoene. This Eustathius is otherwise unknown.
This letter was written in ~74.