48 (254). To Eusebius, Bishop of Samosata
SAINT BASIL
pastor according to the Lord's will, one who is able to guide His people aright. For, we have before our eyes a man whom you also know well. If we should be considered worthy to secure him, I know that we shall appear before God with much confidence, and shall bestow the greatest benefit on the people who have called upon us. But, I entreat you once again and often no longer to hesitate but to visit us, starting before the hardships of the winter season begin.
48. To Eusebius, Bishop of Samosata 1 It was with great difficulty that we were able to secure a carrier for this letter to your Reverence. For, the people of our country cringe so beneath the winter that they do not have the least courage to venture out of their houses. In fact, we have been covered with such a heavy snowfall that for two months we have been in hiding, buried with the very houses. Assuredly, then, understanding both our Cappadocian2 timidity and natural sluggishness, you will pardon us for not writing sooner and informing your Honor of the affairs at Antioch. It is, no doubt, to no purpose to make these matters known to you at this late hour, since you have probably learned of them long ago. However, considering it no trouble to tell you even things known to you, we have sent the letter in care of our reader. So much for these matters.
Constantinople has for a long time had Demophilus,3 as they themselves will tell you, and as others also assuredly have
I This letter was written jn the spring of 371.
2 The Cappadocians were notorious for their bad character. Together with the Cretans and Cilicians, they were accounted the 'three worst kappas:
3 Demophilus was elected bishop by the Arians in 370 to fill the see left vacant by the death of Eudoxius.