LIII. To Sophronius, Bishop of Constantina.
Since I know, O God-beloved, how
generous and bountiful is your right hand, I put a coveted boon within
your reach; for just as men hungry for this world’s gain are
annoyed at the sight of them that stand in need of pecuniary aid, so
the liberal are delighted, because the riches they reach after are
heavenly. A man who furnishes this excellent opportunity is the
God-beloved bishop Cyprianus, formerly known among them that minister
to others, but now, while he gives a deplorable account of the African
calamities, he has to look to the benevolence of others, and depends on
the bounty of pious souls. I hope that he too will enjoy your brotherly
kindness, and will be forwarded with letters to other havens of
refuge.