Cassiodorus: VARIARUM LIBRI XII

[1] Nescio quis magnus esse creditur, qui de penetralibus iudicis destinatur, quoniam tanto plus aestimatur quis amare iustitiam, quanto ab illo frequentius constat auditam. per milites suos intellegitur iudex et sicut discipuli magistri scientiam produnt, sic nos obsequentium mores aperiunt. praeceps non putatur observasse moderato, avarus paruisse non advertitur continenti: stultus prudentibus servisse non creditur.

[1] I know not who is believed to be great, who is designated from the innermost chambers of the judge, since one is esteemed to love justice so much the more, the more frequently it is agreed that it has been heard by him. By his soldiers the judge is understood; and just as disciples betray a master’s science, so the manners of the obsequents lay us open. A headlong man is not thought to have observed one who is moderate, a miser is not observed to have obeyed one who is continent; a fool is not believed to have served the prudent.

[2] Periclitamur, fateor, in actionibus nostris, si vos mala intentione tractetis et, quod nulli accidit vestrum, alienum vitium nostrum celebratur obprobrium. sustinemus tales casus, quales nos in alios iudicare non possumus et lex, qua fruuntur cuncti, in nobis non potest custodiri. sed habemus iterum ex alia parte solacium, quod vestra bona nostra creduntur esse mandata et nobis otiosis adquiritur, quicquid gloriae vestris laboribus expeditur.

[2] We are put in peril, I confess, in our actions, if you handle them with evil intention, and, what befalls none of you, another’s fault is celebrated as our opprobrium. We sustain such cases as we cannot judge in others, and the law which all enjoy cannot be kept in our regard. But we have again, on the other hand, solace, that your good deeds are believed to be our mandates, and, we being at leisure, whatever of glory is expedited by your labors is acquired for us.

[3] Si te enim aliquis sapienter agere videat, statim famam tui praeceptoris exaltat, dum tale institutum fuisse creditur, qualia gesta nihilominus sentiuntur. una est sententia plebis tales esse iudices, quales vos contigerit approbari. et ideo magnopere cavendum est, ne ille de vobis incipiat iudicare, cuius vos opinionem contigerit ante lacerasse.

[3] For if someone sees you act wisely, he straightway exalts the fame of your preceptor, since such an instruction is believed to have been as the deeds are nonetheless perceived. There is one verdict of the plebs: that judges are such as it has happened that you are approved to be. And therefore it must be greatly guarded against, lest he begin to judge about you whose opinion it has befallen you previously to have lacerated.

ulciscitur poenis quod misistis in fabulis et tormentis vestris compensat, quod populus vulneratus exaggerat. quam periculosum est pati iudicem rationabiliter iratum et illum de fortunis tuis decernere, quem te constat graviter irritasse! quapropter stude magis, ut nostra potius voce lauderis, quia sicut te potest iudicis vel sermo adversus deprimere, ita prosperrima sententia sublevare.

What you have sent into fables is avenged with penalties, and with your torments it compensates for what the wounded populace exaggerates. How perilous it is to endure a judge rationally irate, and to have him decide concerning your fortunes, whom it is evident that you have gravely irritated! Wherefore strive rather that you be praised by our voice instead, for just as the judge’s adverse speech, or even a single word, can depress you, so a most prosperous sentence can uplift.

[4] Perge igitur per illam indictionem iuvante deo ad illam provinciam, cancellorum pompa decoratus et gloriosa gravitate praecinctus. absens cogita praesentis pudorem. nam quid debeas temptare vile, qui militas sub honore?

[4] Proceed therefore during that indiction, with God aiding, to that province, adorned with the pomp of the chancery and girded with glorious gravity. Absent, think the modesty of one present. For what vile thing ought you to attempt, you who serve under honor?

fasces tibi iudicum parent et dum iussa praetorianae sedis portare crederis, ipsam quodammodo potestatem reverendus adsumis. edicta nostra tu primus observa: ostende bonam te intendentibus viam. nam cuius est iudicis custodire mandata, si milites nostra videantur neglegere constituta?

the fasces of the judges defer to you, and while you are believed to bear the commands of the praetorian seat, you, to be revered, in a certain manner assume the power itself. our edicts do you first observe: show a good way to those directing their gaze to you. for what judge’s part is it to guard the mandates, if our soldiers seem to neglect our constitutions?

[5] Reginam illam procacium vitiorum avaritiam fuge, cui cuncta crimina detestabili devotione famulantur: quae dum pectus hominis ingressa fuerit, gregatim quoque maleficas cohortes admittit. ferri non potest recepta, quia nescit esse solitaria. agmen habet blandissimum, arma suscipit ex talentis et per dulcedinem superat quos amara deceptione captivat.

[5] Flee that queen of insolent vices, Avarice, to whom all crimes, with detestable devotion, do service: once it has entered a man’s breast, it admits, in droves, maleficent cohorts as well. Once received, it cannot be borne, because it knows not how to be solitary. It has a most blandishing train, takes up arms from talents, and through sweetness overcomes those whom it captivates by bitter deception.

proinde ad utilitates publicas esto sollicitus: iniuncta morali compulsione procura. plus agit inculcator rationis quam possit exercere terribilis. persona tua refugium sit oppresso, infirmi defensio, praesidium aliqua calamitate concluso.

Accordingly, be solicitous for the public utilities: procure what has been enjoined by moral compulsion. The inculcator of reason accomplishes more than the fearsome can enforce. Let your persona be a refuge for the oppressed, a defense of the infirm, a protection for one shut in by some calamity.

sic enim proprie nostros cancellos agitis, si laesorum impia claustra solvatis.

for thus you properly exercise our chancery, if you unfasten the impious locks of the wronged.

II. UNIVERSIS IUDICIBUS PROVINCIARUM SENATOR PPO.

2. TO ALL JUDGES OF THE PROVINCES, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Gratias divinitati refero, quia et provinciales fecerunt quae monui et ego complevi omnia quae promisi. nam nec me sensit quisquam aliqua venalitate pollutum nec ego pertuli tributarios indevotos. habemus utrimque quod in nobis diligere debeamus: illi repererunt affectuosos iudices, nos adquisivimus integerrimos praecones.

[1] I render thanks to the Divinity, because both the provincials did what I admonished and I myself fulfilled all that I promised. For neither did anyone perceive me stained with any venality, nor did I endure tributaries undevoted. We have on both sides that which we ought to love in ourselves: they found well-affectioned judges, we acquired most upright heralds.

agamus itaque deo praestante quod coepimus. possessor mihi publicas pecunias libens inferat: ego illi in conventu iustitiae tributa persolvam.

let us therefore, God providing, accomplish what we have begun. let the possessor bring in to me the public moneys willingly: I, for my part, to him at the assize of justice will discharge the tributes.

[2] Vobis autem commode repetitur, quod veraciter actum esse sentitur, quando de rebus praeteritis spes magna redditur in futuris. probastis enim, quia nullum coegimus dare quod non debuisset offerre. non publicis, non privatis a me quisquam damnis afflictus est.

[2] To you, moreover, there is fittingly repeated what is perceived to have been done veraciously, when from past affairs great hope is rendered for future ones. For you have proved that we compelled no one to give what he ought not to have offered. By me no one has been afflicted with losses, not public, not private.

discussorum terrores fecimus ignorari. nec extraordinaria quaesivimus, qui cuncta geri legibus optabamus. sed nec vos sitis in ea parte dissimiles.

We made the terrors of the tax-assessors to be unknown. Nor did we seek extraordinary exactions, we who were wishing that all things be conducted by laws. But neither should you be dissimilar in that regard.

praesules imitatores esse dignitatis nostrae iura voluerunt, quibus paene eandem quam nobis iurisdictionem per provincias contulerunt.

the prelates wished the rights to be imitators of our dignity, by which they have conferred through the provinces almost the same jurisdiction as to us.

[3] Nullum repudiat sequenda iustitia: omnes clarificat, quos sui participatione sublimat: minorem se ille solus facit, qui ab ipsa discesserit. cur accipiendi vota sectemur? nullam gloriam recipit qui dives vocatur: contra omni laude decoratur qui iustus edicitur.

[3] The justice to be followed repudiates no one: it makes all illustrious, whom it exalts by participation in itself: he alone makes himself lesser who has departed from it. Why should we pursue votes of acceptance? He who is called rich receives no glory; on the contrary, he who is declared just is adorned with every praise.

desideremus potius quod nos pretiosiores locupletibus facit. fasces accipimus, ut graves esse debeamus: tribunalia conscendimus, ut morum gradibus evehamur.

Let us rather desire that which makes us more precious than the opulent. We receive the fasces, so that we ought to be grave; we mount the tribunals, that we may be raised by the grades of morals.

[4] Nil vile, nil cupidum iudices decet. claras enim suas maculas reddunt, si illi ad quos multi respiciunt aliqua reprehensione sordescunt. alioquin expedit non videri quam cunctorum irrisione signari.

[4] Nothing vile, nothing cupidinous befits judges. For they render their own blemishes conspicuous, if those to whom many look become sordid through any reprehension. Otherwise it is expedient not to be seen rather than to be marked by the derision of all.

omnes ergo, qui gremiorum celsa petimus, vitiorum humilia deseramus. sit in nobis frons libera, ut aliorum possimus emendare peccata. aequat crimen omne quos inquinat et ideo dissimilis ab accusato debet esse qui iudicat.

therefore let all who seek the lofty seats abandon the lowly things of vices. let there be in us a free brow, so that we may be able to amend the sins of others. every crime makes equal those whom it pollutes, and therefore he who judges ought to be dissimilar from the accused.

haec nos annuo sermone convenit loqui, quia bonarum rerum nulla satietas est. fateor aviditatem desiderii mei: cupio me vobiscum velle praedicari.

It is fitting for us to speak these things in the annual discourse, because there is no satiety of good things. I confess the avidity of my desire: I wish to be proclaimed as willing together with you.

[5] Veniamus nunc ad consueta: quae ideo debent suscipi grata, quia probantur esse sollemnia. quapropter, quod feliciter dictum sit, te officiumque tuum cum dei iuvamine possessorem praecipimus ammonere, ut tributa indictionis tertiae decimae devota mente persolvat, quatenus trinae illationis moderamine custodito debitam rei publicae inferat functionem. tempora exactionum statuta serventur, ita tamen, ut nullus sub immaturae compulsionis iniuria se ingemiscat exactum nec iterum sub turpi venalitate indutiarum largitas damnosa praebeatur.

[5] Let us now come to the customary things: which therefore ought to be received with gratitude, because they are approved as solemnities. Wherefore, that it may be said with good fortune, we command you and your office, with God’s help, to admonish the possessor, that he pay the tributes of the 13th indiction with a devoted mind, provided that, the governance of the threefold illation being maintained, he bring in the due function to the republic. Let the appointed times of exactions be observed, yet in such wise that no one, when exacted from, groan under the injury of immature compulsion, nor again, under the base venality of reprieves, a harmful largess be afforded.

dilatio enim tributi maioris fit causa dispendii, quando irrite suspenditur quod nullis protractionibus evitatur.

For the delay of the tribute becomes a cause of greater loss, when that which cannot be avoided by any protractions is vainly suspended.

[6] Expensarum quoque fidelem notitiam quaternis mensibus comprehensam consuetudine custodita ad scrinia nostra dirigere maturabis, ut totius erroris detersa caligine publici ratiocinii possit claritas apparere. nam si aliter facias, te damna respiciunt, quae per neglectum tuum publicis utilitatibus ingeruntur. et ut facilius possis deo auxiliante quae sunt statuta perficere, illum atque illum sedis nostrae milites tibi officioque tuo consuetudinarie praecipimus imminere, quatinus ordinatio nostra inculpabiliter sortiatur effectum.

[6] You will also hasten to send to our scrinia a faithful notice of expenditures, compiled for each four months with the custom maintained, so that, with the darkness of all error wiped away, the clarity of the public ratiocination may be able to appear. For if you do otherwise, losses regard you, which through your neglect are brought upon the public interests. And that you may more easily, with God helping, accomplish the things that are statuted, this man and that man, soldiers of our seat, we customarily command to attend upon you and your office, so that our ordering may obtain its effect without blame.

cave ergo, ne te imparem praestes nostris ammonitis, quia nimis foedum est ut a quo laudanda reposcimus, resecanda potius approbemus.

Therefore beware, lest you show yourself unequal to our admonitions, because it is exceedingly foul that from him of whom we demand praiseworthy things, we should rather approve things that must be cut away.

III. UNIVERSIS SAIONIBUS QUI SUNT CANCELLARIIS DEPUTATI SENATOR PPO.

3. TO ALL SAIONES WHO ARE ASSIGNED TO THE CHANCELLORS, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Oportet quidem cuncta sub tranquillitate peragi, quemadmodum pote sit bonis moribus convenire. sed tanta est in re publica de morum varietate diversitas, ut nemo valeat leges defendere, nisi terror videatur aliqua temperare. aegris non una causa salutis est: alter cibis reficitur, alter per abstinentiae beneficia tenuatur: hic lavacra mollia, ille ferrum quaerit ad vulnera: et varium poscit remedium diversa qualitas passionum.

[1] It is indeed proper that all things be carried out under tranquillity, in such a way as may be able to agree with good morals. But so great is the diversity in the republic from the variety of morals, that no one is able to defend the laws, unless some terror seems in some way to temper matters. For the sick there is not one single cause of health: one is restored by foods, another is reduced through the benefits of abstinence; this man seeks soft baths, that one the iron for his wounds; and the diverse quality of sufferings demands a varied remedy.

sic qui populis praeesse cognoscitur, non uno consilio praeditus invenitur. feroces districtione premendi sunt, mansueti civiliter ammonendi: dolosi caute, simplices sub lenitate tractandi sunt. et ideo ubique probatur necessaria esse prudentia, quoniam rebus omnibus adhibere videtur accommoda.

Thus he who is known to preside over peoples is found not endowed with a single counsel. The fierce must be pressed by strictness, the meek civilly admonished: the deceitful cautiously, the simple are to be handled with lenity. And therefore prudence is everywhere approved to be necessary, since it seems suitable to be applied to all affairs.

[2] Quapropter devotionem tuam solaciis illius viri clarissimi cancellarii nostri sollemni more deputamus, ut contra nullum alium erigaris, nisi qui legibus parere despexerit. ad forum trahe qui iusta non recipit: sub continentia irascere, sub maturitate distringe. timeri te amplius volumus quam probari, quia maxime illud vigori tuo reputabitur, si nullius praesumptione peccetur.

[2] Wherefore we assign your devotion, by the solemn custom, to the solaces of that most illustrious man, our chancellor, so that you be raised against no one except him who has disdained to obey the laws. Drag to the forum the one who does not accept what is just: be angry under continence, constrain under maturity. We wish you to be feared more than approved, because that will most of all be reckoned to your vigor, if by the presumption of no one there is sinning.

[3] Cogitetur prae omnibus pecuniae publicae fidelis exactio. sit tuum commodum contemptus alienus. coactus faciat, quod sponte complere neglexerit.

[3] Let the faithful exaction of the public money be considered before all things. Let the contempt of others be your advantage. Let him, compelled, do what he has neglected to complete of his own accord.

causis tantum te delegatis impende. si praecepta sequeris, devia non requiris. caret culpa, qui imperata perfecerit.

devote yourself only to the cases delegated to you. if you follow precepts, you do not seek devious paths. he is without culpability who has fulfilled the things commanded.

in executore illud est pessimum, si iudicis relinquat arbitrium. non inde iacteris, quod tibi non potest obviari, nec assumere superbiam velis, quia te multorum humilitas pertimescit. viri fortes semper in pace modesti sunt et iustitiam nimis diligunt, qui frequenter proelia tractaverunt.

In an executor the worst thing is this: if he leaves the discretion to the judge. Do not vaunt yourself on that account, that none can be met in opposition to you, nor wish to assume pride, because the humility of many stands in dread of you. Brave men, who have frequently conducted battles, are always modest in peace and love justice exceedingly.

[4] Quam gratum est, si inter parentes reversus querellarum non reportes opprobrium, sed ita te cognoscant egisse, quemadmodum diligentes probantur optare! nos etiam gratanter excipimus cum laude venientem et otio vacare non sinimus, quem probabiliter egisse sentimus. his etiam et rerum dominus maiora credit, quos bona conscientia utilitates suas gessisse probaverit.

[4] How welcome it is, if, returned among your parents, you do not bring back the opprobrium of complaints, but that they recognize you to have acted in the very way which the diligent are proved to desire! we too gladly receive with praise the one who comes, and we do not allow him to be at leisure, whom we perceive to have acted creditably. to such men even the Lord of things entrusts greater matters, whom a good conscience will have proved to have managed his interests.

quanta sunt, quae possunt tollere sapientes! nemo amplius adquirit quam qui se bona conversatione tractaverit.

How many are the things that can uplift the wise! No one acquires more than he who has handled himself with good conversation.

IIII. CANONICARIO VENETIARUM SENATOR PPO.

4. TO CANONICARIUS OF THE VENETIANS, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Mensae regalis apparatus ditissimus non parvus rei publicae probatur ornatus, quia tanta dominus possidere creditur, quantis novitatibus epulatur. privati est habere quod locus continet: in principali convivio hoc profecto decet exquiri, quod visum debeat ammirari. destinet carpam Danuvius, a Rheno veniat anchorago, exormiston Sicula quibuslibet laboribus offeratur: Bruttiorum mare dulces mittat acernias: sapori pisces de diversis finibus afferantur.

[1] The most wealthy apparatus of the royal table is approved as no small adornment of the commonwealth, since the lord is believed to possess as much as he banquets upon in novelties. It is for a private man to have what the place contains; in the principal banquet, assuredly it befits that there be sought out that which, when seen, ought to be admired. Let the Danube assign the carp; let the anchorago come from the Rhine; let the Sicilian exormiston, with whatever labors, be offered; let the sea of the Bruttii send sweet acerniae; let fishes for savor be brought from diverse borders.

sic decet regem pascere, ut a legatis gentium credatur paene omnia possidere.

thus it befits to feed the king, so that he may be believed by the legates of the nations to possess nearly all things.

[2] Et ideo procuranda sunt vina, quae singulariter fecunda nutrit Italia, ne qui externa debemus appetere, videamur propria non quaesisse. comitis itaque patrimonii relatione declaratum est acinaticium, cui nomen ex acino est, enthecis aulicis fuisse tenuatum.

[2] And therefore wines must be procured which Italy, singularly fecund, nourishes, lest, having to desire foreign ones, we seem not to have sought our own. Accordingly, by the report of the Count of the Patrimony it has been declared that the acinatic wine, whose name is from the grape-berry, has been diminished in the palace storehouses.

[3] Et quia cunctae dignitates invicem sibi debent necessaria ministrare, quae probantur ad rerum dominos pertinere, ad possessores Veronenses, ubi eius rei cura praecipua est, vos iubemus accedere, quatenus accepto pretio competenti nullus tardet vendere quod principali gratiae deberet offerre. digna plane species, de qua se iactet Italia. nam licet ingeniosa Graecia multifaria se diligentiae subtilitate commendet et vina sua aut odoribus condiat aut marinis permixtionibus insaporet, sub tanta tamen exquisitione reperitur simile nil habere.

[3] And because all dignities ought in turn to minister the necessary things to one another, which are judged to pertain to the masters of affairs, we order you to go to the Veronese possessors, where the chief care of this matter is, to the end that, the competent price having been accepted, no one delay to sell what he ought to offer to the princely grace. A plainly worthy species, of which Italy may boast itself. For although ingenious Greece in manifold ways commends itself by the subtlety of diligence, and either seasons its wines with perfumes or imparts savor by marine admixtures, yet under so great fastidious exquisition it is found to have nothing similar.

[4] Hoc est enim merum et colore regium et sapore praecipuum, ut blattam aut ipsius putes fontibus tingi aut liquores eius a purpura credantur expressi. dulcedo illic ineffabili suavitate sentitur: stipsis nescio qua firmitate roboratur: tactus eius densitate pinguescit, ut dicas esse aut carneum liquorem aut edibilem potionem. libet referre quam singularis eius videatur esse collectio.

[4] For this is neat wine, both regal in color and preeminent in savor, such that you would think either that the scarlet-dye is tinged in its very springs, or that its liquors are believed to be pressed from purple. The sweetness there is felt with an ineffable suavity: it is strengthened by some I-know-not-what firmness of stipsis: its touch grows fat with density, so that you would say it is either a fleshy liquid or an edible potion. It is a pleasure to relate how singular its gathering seems to be.

autumno lecta de vineis in pergulis domesticis uva resupina suspenditur, servatur in vasis suis, thecis naturalibus custoditur. rugescit, non liquescit ex senio: tunc fatuos humores exsudans magna suavitate dulcescit.

In autumn, gathered from the vineyards, the grapes are hung upside down in the household pergolas, kept in their own vessels, guarded in their natural cases. It grows rugose, it does not liquesce from age: then, exuding the insipid humors, it grows sweet with great suavity.

[5] Trahitur ad mensem Decembrem, donec fluxum eius hiemis tempus aperiat, miroque modo incipit esse novum, quando cellis omnibus reperitur antiquum. hiemale mustum, uvarum frigidus sanguis, in rigore vindemia, cruentus liquor, purpura potabilis, violeum nectar defervet primum in origine sua et cum potuerit adulescere, perpetuam incipit habere novitatem. non calcibus iniuriose tunditur nec aliqua sordium ammixtione fuscatur, sed, quemadmodum decet, nobilitas tanta provocatur.

[5] It is drawn out to the month of December, until the winter’s time opens its flux, and in a wondrous way it begins to be new, when in all the cellars it is found ancient. Winter must, the cold blood of grapes, the vintage in its rigor, the gory liquor, drinkable purple, violet nectar, first subsides at its own origin; and when it has been able to adolescere, it begins to have a perpetual newness. It is not injuriously pounded by heels nor darkened by any admixture of filths, but, as is fitting, so great nobility is called forth.

defluit, dum aqua durescit: fecunda est, cum omnis agrorum fructus abscedit. distillat gemmis comparem liquorem: iucundum nescio quid illacrimat et praeter quod eius delectat dulcedo, in aspectu singularis eius est pulchritudo.

it flows down, while water hardens: it is fecund, when all the fruits of the fields withdraw. it distills a liquor comparable to gems: it sheds I-know-not-what of delight in tears, and besides that its sweetness delights, in aspect its pulchritude is singular.

[6] Hoc quantocius perquisitum et competentibus pretiis adgregatum chartariis qui in rem directi sunt tradite deferendum nec illud neglegendum putetis, quod lacteo poculo relucescit, quando plus est mirabile quod potueritis difficilius invenire. albedo ibi decora est et serena puritas, ut illud de rosis, hoc credatur natum esse de liliis. colore quidem extraneum, sed sapore germanum est: aspectus dispar et similis in utroque suavitas.

[6] This, as soon as possible having been sought out and aggregated at competent prices, hand over to the carters who are assigned to the business to be borne; and do not think that to be neglected which gleams in a milky cup, since that is the more marvelous which you have been able to find with greater difficulty. The whiteness there is decorous and the purity serene, so that that may be believed to have been born of roses, this of lilies. In color indeed it is foreign, but in savor it is germane: the appearance is different, and in both the sweetness is similar.

nam quod acute sapit, quod cito reficit, commune illis intellegitur, sed magna est distantia quae videtur. istud intueris rubore laetum, illud conspicis candore festivum. et ideo procuratio eorum debet esse celerrima, quando ambobus inesse cognoscitur quod pariter expetatur.

for that which has an acute savor, that which quickly refreshes, is understood to be common to them; but the difference that appears is great. this one you behold cheerful with redness, that one you see festive with whiteness. and therefore their procurement ought to be most swift, since in both it is recognized that that is present which is equally desired.

V. VALERIANO V. S. SENATOR PPO.

5. TO VALERIANUS, A SPECTABILIS MAN, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Generaliter quidem amplissimum cognitorem decet beneficia dilatare, quoniam qui omnibus praeesse cognoscitur, cunctis impendere profutura censetur. sed gratificante natura illis amplius debemus, qui nobis aliqua proximitate iunguntur, dum quoddam genus recti videatur esse propositi ab aequalitate discedi.

[1] Generally indeed it befits the most distinguished judge to extend benefits, since he who is recognized to preside over all is deemed to expend upon all things that will prove beneficial. But, nature gratifying, we owe more to those who are joined to us by some proximity, since it seems to be a certain genus of the right, in purpose, to depart from equality.

[2] Nam modestiam collegis impendimus, reverentiam patribus exhibemus, civibus debemus gratiam communem, sed affectum filiis singularem: et tanta necessitudinum vis est, ut nullus se contemptum esse diiudicet, si sibi aliena pignora praelata esse cognoscit. et ideo non est aliquid iniustum de patria plus esse sollicitum eo praesertim tempore, cum eius videamur periculis subvenire. plus enim eos diligere credimur, quos eripere festinamus.

[2] For we expend modesty upon colleagues, we exhibit reverence to the Fathers, to citizens we owe a common grace, but to sons a singular affection: and so great is the force of necessitudes that no one judges himself contemned, if he realizes that other men’s pledges have been preferred before himself. And therefore there is nothing unjust in being more solicitous for one’s fatherland, especially at that time when we seem to subvene it in its dangers. For we are believed to love more those whom we hasten to rescue.

[3] Veniens itaque numerosus exercitus, qui ad defensionem rei publicae noscitur destinatus, Lucaniae Bruttiorumque dicitur culta vastasse et abundantiam regionum studio tenuasse rapinarum. sed quoniam et illis dare et istis sumere pro temporis qualitate necesse est, pretia quae antiquus ordo constituit ex iussione rerum domini cognoscite temperata, ut multo artius quam vendere solebatis in assem publicum praebita debeant imputari, quatenus nec possessor dispendia nec exercitus laborans sustinere possit inopiam.

[3] Therefore, a numerous army coming, which is known to have been destined for the defense of the commonwealth, is said to have laid waste the cultivated lands of Lucania and of the Bruttii, and to have thinned the abundance of the regions by a zeal for rapine. But since, given the condition of the time, it is necessary both for those to give and for these to take, know that the prices which the ancient order established are moderated by the injunction of the lord of affairs, so that, much more strictly than you were accustomed to sell, the things furnished must be imputed at the public as, to the end that neither the possessor suffer losses nor the toiling army be able to endure want.

[4] Nolite igitur esse solliciti. evasistis exigentium manus, tributa vobis praesens adimit apparatus. sed quo facilius instrueretur vestra notitia, imputationum summas infra scriptis brevibus credidimus exprimendas, ut nemo vobis vendat beneficium quod publica noscitis largitate collatum.

[4] Therefore do not be anxious. You have escaped the hands of the exactors; the present provisioning removes tributes from you. But in order that your notice might be more readily informed, we have judged that the totals of the imputations should be expressed in the brief writings set down below, so that no one may sell to you as a benefit what you know to have been conferred by public largesse.

continete ergo possessorum intemperantes motus. ament quieta, quos nullus ad incerta praecipitat. dum belligerat Gothorum exercitus, sit in pace Romanus.

therefore restrain the intemperate motions of the possessors. let them love the quiet, whom no one drives headlong into uncertainties. while the army of the Goths wars, let the Roman be in peace.

felicium votum est quod iubetur, ne rustici, agreste hominum genus, dum laborandi taedia fugiunt, illicitis ausibus efferentur et contra vos incipiant erigi, quos vix poteratis in pace moderari.

What is enjoined is a felicitous vow: that the rustics, a rural race of men, while they flee the tedium of laboring, may not be carried away into illicit ventures and begin to rise up against you, whom you could scarcely moderate in peace.

[5] Quapropter ex regia iussione singulos conductores massarum et possessores validos ammonete, ut nullam contrahant in concertatione barbariem, ne non tantum festinent bellis prodesse, quantum quieta confundere. arripiant ferrum, sed unde agros excolant: sumant cuspides boum stimulos, non furoris. defensorum maxima laus est, si, cum illi videantur praedictas regiones protegere, isti non desinant patrioticas possessiones excolere.

[5] Wherefore, by royal injunction, admonish each lessee of the estates (massae) and the sturdy possessors, that they contract no barbarism in contestation, lest they hurry not so much to be of use to wars as to confound the quiet. let them seize iron, but such as wherewith they may cultivate the fields: let them take the points, the goads of oxen, not of frenzy. the greatest praise of the defenders is, if, while those seem to protect the aforesaid regions, these do not cease to cultivate the patriotic possessions.

[6] Sit iudicibus vigor ex legibus: subsellia non desinant iura malis moribus intonare: timeat latro iudicium quod semper expavit: adulter gremium iudicis intremiscat: falsarius vocem praeconis exhorreat: fur fora non rideat, quia tunc libertas gaudet, si talia non laetentur. sic enim prosperrime geri non sentiebitis bellum, si vobis sit communiter de civilitate consilium. nullus opprimat indigentem: invadite pervasores, insequimini persequentes.

[6] Let there be vigor for the judges from the laws: let the benches not cease to thunder the laws against bad morals: let the bandit fear the judgment which he has always dreaded: let the adulterer quake at the judge’s bosom: let the falsifier shudder at the crier’s voice: let the thief not laugh at the forums, for then liberty rejoices, if such people do not exult. For thus you will not perceive the war to be carried on most prosperously, unless there be for you in common a counsel concerning civility. Let no one oppress the indigent: assail the usurpers, pursue the persecutors.

est vobis competens pugna civilis. omnia pacata vos redditis, si duces scelerum comprimatis. in annonis vero reputandis esto sollicitus, ne aliquem cuiusquam possit fraudare versutia.

A civil battle is fitting for you. You render all things pacified, if you suppress the ringleaders of crimes. And in reckoning the annona be solicitous, lest anyone’s trickery be able to defraud anyone.

[7] Rectoribus autem exercitus a rerum dominis sub mea praesentia cognoscite delegatum, ut, dum a vobis necessario fuerint commoniti, gravatis per iniuriam debeat subveniri. custodiant nihilominus disciplinam, unde robustius armatur semper exercitus. additum est etiam beneficii genus, ut a praesenti devotione praeceptis regiis nec divina domus videatur excepta, sed totum communiter sustineatur, quod pro generalitate censetur.

[7] Moreover, know that to the commanders of the army, by the rulers of affairs in my presence, it has been delegated that, when they have been necessarily admonished by you, those weighed down by injury ought to be succored. Let them nonetheless guard discipline, whence the army is always more robustly armed. A kind of beneficium has also been added, that from present devotion to royal precepts not even the divine house appear excepted, but that what is assessed for the generality be borne in common.

[8] Nunc ergo cum fratribus vestris studiose consurgite et sub omni cautela necessaria providete, ut prosit re vera nobilissimae patriae talia volumina praetulisse. quieta enim regere et ex usu administrare provincias homines vel mediocris intellegentiae possunt: sed hoc opus, hic labor est illud magis regere, quod se relictum non potest continere. cessat enim nautarum in tranquillitate peritia nec nomen praestat artifici, nisi fuerit vis magna periculi.

[8] Now therefore rise zealously with your brothers and, under every necessary caution, provide that it may truly profit the most noble fatherland to have borne such burdens. For to rule things in quiet and to administer provinces to advantage men even of mediocre intelligence can: but this is the work, this the labor—to govern rather that which, left to itself, cannot restrain itself. For the skill of sailors ceases in calm, nor does a name bestow credit upon the craftsman, unless there has been a great force of peril.

[9] Habetis ergo tempus, ubi et famam sapientum possitis adquirere et in omni parte vos laudabiliter iuvante domino custodire. meos autem ultra ceteros minime commendo, quia omnibus hoc cupimus accidere, quod nostris desideramus laribus evenire. mihi enim propria cura dilapsa est, postquam generalem coepi cogitare custodiam.

[9] Therefore you have the time, wherein you can both acquire the fame of the wise and, with the Lord helping, laudably guard yourselves in every part. As for my own, I by no means commend them beyond the others, because we wish this to happen to all which we desire to befall our own hearths. For my private care has fallen away, after I began to think upon a general guardianship.

opto meis bene, sed quod possit esse commune, quia magnae iniustitiae genus est aliud sibi iudicem velle quam potest generalitas sustinere.

I wish well for my own, but that which can be common, since it is a great kind of injustice to want for oneself a judge other than what the generality can sustain.

VI. UNIVERSIS PRAEFECTURAE TITULOS ADMINISTRANTIBUS SENATOR PPO.

6. TO ALL ADMINISTERING THE TITLES OF THE PREFECTURE, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Quamvis abunde sufficiant quae rerum domini ingenita pietate praeceperunt, interminationes tamen importunis et fatuis adhibita districtione geminamus, ut qui nequeunt erubescere, saltem se contineant per timorem. quis enim de sua praesumptione gratuletur, quando famam perditurus est qui interdicta temptaverit? retundatur ambitio caeca cupientum: proterva refrenetur audacia: qui lucrum de malo quaerit, poena proposita terreatur: qui honorem per nefanda desiderat, amissa potius opinione turbetur.

[1] Although what the lords of affairs have prescribed by innate piety suffices abundantly, nevertheless we double our threatenings, with severity applied to the importunate and the foolish, so that those who cannot blush may at least restrain themselves through fear. For who would congratulate himself on his own presumption, since he who shall attempt what is interdicted is going to lose his reputation? Let the blind ambition of coveters be blunted: let insolent audacity be reined in: let him who seeks gain from evil be terrified by the penalty set forth: let him who desires honor through nefarious deeds be rather disquieted by lost repute.

[2] Additur etiam quod nostris temporibus sceleratae pecuniae non valebunt nec culpam suam redimit, qui se reum esse cognoscit. iniquis fraudibus non patebit occasio: persequimur, non vendimus excedentes. ubi iam, male capientes, spem habebitis, quando vobis et rerum domini et vestri iudices comminantur?

[2] It is added also that in our times criminal monies will not prevail, nor does he redeem his own fault who acknowledges himself to be guilty. To iniquitous frauds no occasion will be open: we pursue, we do not vend those who overstep. Where now, you ill-acquiring men, will you have hope, when both the lords of affairs and your own judges menace you?

vos tamen, quos ad publicas amministrationes pervenire nostra fecit electio, de actionum honestate confidite, quia vos nulla venalitas excludit, si probitas continuerit actionis.

Yet you, whom our selection has made to attain to public administrations, be confident about the honesty of your actions, for no venality excludes you, provided the probity of conduct sustains you.

[3] Publicis utilitatibus servite fixi, quando vos nulla privata damna concutient. reddite hanc vicissitudinem iudicio meo, ut qui vos nullo proprio suffragio gravari feci, studeatis in vobis mea facta laudari. praefixum itaque tempus a rerum dominis noveritis esse servandum, ita tamen, ut ea, quae vobis pro publica utilitate decreta sunt, providere ac solvere debeatis.

[3] Serve the public utilities/interests steadfastly, since no private losses will shake you. Render this reciprocation to my judgment, inasmuch as I have caused you to be weighed down by no private suffrage; strive that my deeds be praised in you. Know, therefore, that the pre-fixed time by the masters of affairs is to be observed, yet in such a way that the things which have been decreed to you for public utility you ought to provide for and discharge.

VII. CANONICARIO VENETIARUM SENATOR PPO.

7. TO THE CANONICARIUS OF THE VENETIANS SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Sub clementia boni principis nihil constat licere fortuitis, quando sinistros casus corrigunt, qui praestare prosperrime censuerunt. nam quemadmodum ferret nudus saevam barbariem et districtum principem, quando spoliatus iure negat quod affluens inferre didicerat? atque ideo illi vel illi Sueborum incursione vastatis fiscum quintae decimae indictionis serenitas regalis indulsit, sicut te poterit instruere relecta praeceptio.

[1] Under the clemency of a good prince nothing is held to be permitted to fortuitous events, since those who have judged it best to bestow prosperity correct sinister mishaps. For how would a man stripped bare endure savage barbarism and a strict prince, when, despoiled, he by right refuses what, in affluence, he had learned to contribute? And therefore, to this man or that, laid waste by the incursion of the Suebi, the Royal Serenity has indulged a remission of the fisc of the 15th indiction, as the precept, reread, will be able to instruct you.

[2] Unde oboedientiam commendantes a supradictis possessoribus de praediis, quae tamen cognoveris esse vastata, praesentis indictionis tributa non exigas: reliqua vero sollemni compulsione procura, ut constitutis temporibus arcario nostro residuam compleas quantitatem. cave ergo, ne gravior fias hostibus, si adhuc nudare velis exutos: chlamydes non pavescant, qui arma timuerunt: rapinas non sentiant post praedones. validas contra te apochas invenerunt: invictas securitates illis dedit calamitas sua: violentus abstulit quod quaerebas.

[2] Whence, commending obedience, from the aforesaid possessors, from the estates which nevertheless you have learned to have been laid waste, do not exact the tributes of the present indiction: but procure the remainder by solemn compulsion, so that at the appointed times you may complete to our paymaster the residual quantity. Beware, therefore, lest you become heavier than the enemies, if you still wish to strip those who have been stripped: let not cloaks be afraid, who feared arms: let them not feel robberies after the robbers. They have found strong apochas against you: their own calamity has given them unconquered securities: a violent man has carried off what you were seeking.

cui nihil videtur relictum, a tributis constat esse liberatum.

he to whom nothing seems to have been left is held to be liberated from taxes.

VIII. CONSULARI PROVINCIAE LIGURIAE SENATOR PPO.

8. TO THE CONSULAR OF THE PROVINCE OF LIGURIA, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Novum genus videtur esse compendii postulantes adquirere et praestantes nulla damna sentire. nam sic accipitur ab uno, ut perire non possit ab altero: donatur sine dispendio: ceditur sine imminutione et nomen habet munificentiae quod iura domini nescit exire.

[1] A new kind of saving seems to be this: the petitioners acquire, and the granters feel no losses. For it is so received from one that it cannot perish for the other: it is donated without expense, it is ceded without diminution, and it bears the name of munificence while it does not depart from the owner’s rights.

[2] Quapropter ille casarum suarum fiscum in illa provincia constitutarum, quas brevis subter conscriptus eloquitur, exactorum suggerit enormitate vexari, desiderans sine aliqua imminutione publicae utilitatis inferre se debere nostris arcariis debitam functionem. quod nos, qui nullorum damnis studere cognoscimur, dummodo fisco competentia rationabili satisfactione solvantur, libenter annuimus, quia hoc est bona desideria suspendere quod illicita perpetrare.

[2] Wherefore that man represents that the fisc-revenue of his own houses established in that province, which a brief written below sets forth, is being vexed by the enormity of the exactors, desiring that, without any diminution of public utility, he ought to render to our treasurers the due function (tax). Which we—who are known to be intent upon the harms of no one—so long as the things competent to the fisc are paid with reasonable satisfaction, gladly assent to; because to suspend good desires is the same as to perpetrate illicit things.

[3] Qua de re spectabilitas tua commonitis curialibus vel compulsoribus nec non et his, quorum interesse cognoscit, ab illa indictione praedictis casis exactionem facies sub hac condicione removeri, ut, si intra illas kalendas summa quae competit non fuerit arcario persoluta, intra provinciam sollemnis exactio peragatur, minus ne, si fidem suae promissionis arcariorum apochis probaverit esse completam, ab omni inquietudine compulsorum designata praedia liberentur, quia illa magis debent eligi, quae sine suspicione damni libenti animo probantur offerri. grata enim nobis est sine instantia compulsoris exactio et hoc devotum facere, quod vix poterat coactus implere. atque utinam possessor ultroneus et nobis necessitatem morarum tolleret et sibi damna competentibus illationibus abrogaret!

[3] Wherefore your Spectability, the curials and the compulsors, as well as those whose interest it knows, having been admonished, you will have the exaction for that indiction removed from the aforesaid houses under this condition: that, if by those Kalends the sum which is due shall not have been paid to the arcarius, the solemn exaction be carried out within the province; otherwise, if he shall have proved by the apoches (receipts) of the arcarii that the good faith of his promise has been completed, let the designated estates be freed from all disturbance by the compulsors, since those things ought rather to be chosen which are shown to be offered with a willing spirit without suspicion of loss. For an exaction without the insistence of a compulsor is pleasing to us, and to do this as a devoted act, which he could hardly have fulfilled when compelled. And would that the voluntary possessor both took away from us the necessity of delays and removed from himself the damages by the payments that are competent!

ipse enim imminentem necessarium facit, qui sollemnia praebere distulerit.

for he himself makes the imminent necessity, who has deferred to provide the customary payments.

VIIII. PASCHASIO PRAEFECTO ANNONAE SENATOR PPO.

9. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO PASCHASIUS, PREFECT OF THE ANNONA.

[1] Pietate plenum est peregrinam gentem publicis beneficiis obligare et non tantum consanguineos ad substantiae lucra permittere quantum ipsos quoque advenas invitare: hereditas quae est sine proximis, absque parentela successio solaque fides generis est patrios sonare sermones. Afer enim sic expetit beneficia, ut sibi olim doceat fuisse concessa: donum sine accipientis nomine, praeter personam largitas, quia primum collatum est genti, ut postea petentium vocabulum potuisset affigi.

[1] It is full of piety to obligate a peregrine nation with public benefactions, and not only to permit consanguineous kin to the profits of the substance, but likewise to invite the newcomers themselves: an inheritance that is without near-kin, a succession without a kindred, and the sole credential of the stock is to sound the ancestral speeches. For an African thus seeks benefactions, so that he may show that they were once granted to himself: a gift without the recipient’s name, a bounty beyond the person, because it was first conferred upon the nation, so that afterwards the appellation of the petitioners might be affixed.

[2] Hinc est quod iure quodam postulant hereditates alienas et illis tantum videtur competere, quod Romanus non potest in causis similibus optinere. beneficium tale non habuerunt in patria sua, sed hic omnes sub hac condicione parentes sunt: universa natio, quantum ad successionis beneficium, una familia est.

[2] Hence it is that, by a certain right, they claim others’ inheritances, and it seems to belong to them alone, which a Roman cannot obtain in similar cases. They did not have such a benefit in their own fatherland; but here all, under this condition, are relatives: the entire nation, as far as the benefit of succession is concerned, is one family.

[3] Quocirca experientia tua preces illius diligenti examinatione discutiat et si re vera ille, quem suggerit de hac luce transisse, filios non reliquit nec ab alio constat rationabiliter possideri, introductionem memoratae rei officium vestrum celebrato ex more, quatinus antiqua pietas regnantum praesentium reparet beneficia dominorum et possit pro illis supplicare, sub quibus se magis intellegit votiva meruisse. resumat facultatem, quam se suspiraverat amisisse. peregrinum se ultra dicere non potuit, qui optata rura conquirit.

[3] Wherefore let your experience examine his petitions with diligent examination; and if in truth the man whom he alleges to have passed from this light left no sons, nor does it appear that the property is reasonably possessed by another, let your office, according to custom, perform the introduction to the aforesaid thing, so that the ancient piety of the present rulers may restore the benefits of the lords, and he may be able to supplicate on behalf of those under whom he understands that he has more deserved the things he longed for. Let him resume the faculty which he had sighed that he had lost. He can no longer call himself a foreigner, who acquires the desired fields.

habeat possessorum similem dignitatem et iam tributa reparatus inferat, qui opem ab alienis manibus expetebat.

let him have a dignity similar to that of the possessors, and, now restored, let him render the tributes, he who was seeking aid from foreign hands.

[4] Gaudeat se ad hoc perductum, ut daret quod utique nisi habenti non probatur emergere, ceteris dominis in hac tantum sorte deterior, quoniam alienare nequit quod possidere praevaluit. sed et hoc quoque magna credimus aequitate repertum, ut qui loco succedit pignoris, substantiam suam affectu patris iure servet extraneis. miseratione pastus nunc pascat et alios: felix illi contigit et praedicanda captivitas Romana civitate perfrui et Afrorum privilegiis potuisse misceri.

[4] Let him rejoice that he has been brought to this point, to give what surely is not proved to emerge except in one who has it, being inferior to the other lords only in this lot, since he cannot alienate what he has prevailed to possess. But we also believe that even this has been found with great equity: that he who succeeds in the place of a pledge keeps his own substance for strangers with a father’s affection by right. Nourished by compassion, let him now feed others as well: a happy and to-be-proclaimed captivity befell him, to have been able both to enjoy Roman citizenship and to be mingled with the privileges of the Africans.

X. DIVERSIS CANCELLARIIS PROVINCIARUM SENATOR PPO.

10. SENATOR, THE PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO THE VARIOUS CHANCELLORS OF THE PROVINCES.

[1] Rationum publicarum reliquiae infaustae sunt aegritudini comparandae, quae gravant, debilitant, nisi sub celeritate discedant. reatus quidam est esse sub debito nec liber potest veraciter dici, qui probatur obnoxius reperiri. prudens se ipse compellit: minus cautus est, qui urgetur ab altero.

[1] The remnants of public accounts are ill-omened, to be compared to sickness, which burden and debilitate unless they depart with speed. There is a certain guilt in being under debt, nor can he truly be called free who is proved to be found liable. The prudent man compels himself; less cautious is he who is urged by another.

nam quid egit totius anni suscepta compulsio? summa futurae indictionis et quantitas exigatur.

for what has the undertaken compulsion of the whole year accomplished? let the sum of the forthcoming indiction and the quantity be exacted.

[2] Parcendo non parcitis: exonerando praegravatis et dum venales moras quaeritis, tributi onera duplicatis. relinquite tandem crudelem misericordiam, beneficia tota detestatione fellita. gravius percutit qui blandiendo grassatur et sub indulgentia laedit, qui consuetis temporibus exigere tributa distulerit.

[2] By sparing you do not spare: by unloading you overburden, and while you seek venal delays, you double the burdens of the tribute. Leave off at last the cruel mercy—benefits wholly galled with detestation. He strikes more grievously who advances with blandishment and harms under indulgence, who has deferred to exact tributes at the customary times.

et ideo desinite aliquando possessorum damna mercari, quia totum constricti per incommoda redditis quod iniquis dilationibus abstulistis. post ista enim non vos credatis verbis iterum commoneri, sed inremissibili exactione compelli.

and therefore cease at last to traffic in the losses of the landholders, because, constrained by hardships, you render in full what you took away by iniquitous delays. after these things, do not believe that you will be admonished again by words, but that you will be compelled by an unremitting exaction.

[3] Quapropter si ad illum diem arcario nostro, quae de provinciis sollemniter postulantur, dispunctis rationibus non aut per te intuleris aut destinaveris quantitatem, degeniatus in provincia velociter reddis quae te male distulisse cognoscis, quia nimis iniquum est, ut assis publicus sub tua neglegentia iaceat et arcarius mutuatam pecuniam publicis utilitatibus incessanter expendat.

[3] Wherefore, if by that day to our treasurer you shall not, with the accounts checked off, have either yourself paid in or have earmarked the amount that is solemnly demanded from the provinces, having lingered in the province you will swiftly render what you recognize you have wrongly deferred, because it is most inequitable that the public as lie under your negligence and that the treasurer incessantly expend borrowed money on public utilities.

XI. PETRO V. C. EROGATORI OPSONIORUM SENATOR PPO.

11. TO PETER, A MOST DISTINGUISHED MAN, DISBURSER OF PROVISIONS. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Probatae debet esse conscientiae, qui principalia beneficia praeponitur erogare, ne aliqua cupiditatis sorde desiccetur quod a tanta liberalitate profunditur. mutant enim quaslibet largitates rapientium manus et sicut fontis puritas per limosa corrumpitur, sic affluentia boni regis avaris distributoribus immutatur. aurum ipsum cum solvitur in liquorem, nisi mundissimo caliculo suscipiatur, inficitur, quando puritatem sui illa sola custodiunt, quae nulla sordium ammixtione fuscantur.

[1] He must be of approved conscience who is put in charge to disburse the principal benefices, lest that which is poured forth by so great liberality be dried up by any filth of cupidity. For the hands of the rapacious change whatever largesses, and just as the purity of a spring is corrupted by muddy things, so the affluence of a good king is altered by avaricious distributors. Gold itself, when it is dissolved into a liquid, is tainted unless it be received into a most clean cup, since only those things keep their own purity which are not darkened by any admixture of filth.

quam gratum per niveos calculos rivulos videre currentes et ipsam quodammodo naturae liberam ridere puritatem, quando nullis maculis iniuriata turpatur! sic dona rerum domini nulla debent pollutione fuscari, sed sicut ab ipso exeunt copiosa, ita debent ad Romanos pervenire purissima.

how pleasing it is to see rivulets running through snow-white pebbles, and to see the very purity of nature, in a certain way free, laugh, when, harmed by no stains, it is not defiled! thus the gifts of the lord of things ought to be darkened by no pollution, but just as they go forth copious from him, so they ought to reach the Romans most pure.

[2] Nam licet omnis fraus gravis esse videatur, illa tamen importabilis redditur, quae in Romulea plebe grassatur: turba quae vivit quieta: populus qui nescitur, nisi cum laetus est: clamor sine seditione: strepitus furoris nescius, quibus sola contentio est paupertatem fugere et divitias non amare. nesciunt enim esse lucripetes nec aliqua se negotiationis calliditate discruciant: vivunt fortuna mediocrium et conscientia divitum. nonne piaculum est talibus rapere, qui nesciunt aliena fraudare?

[2] For although every fraud may seem to be grave, yet that is rendered unbearable which rampages among the Romulean plebs: a crowd that lives quietly: a people who are not known, except when they are joyful: a clamor without sedition: a din unacquainted with fury, for whom the sole contention is to flee poverty and not to love riches. For they do not know how to be seekers of lucre, nor do they excruciate themselves with any callidity of negotiation: they live with the fortune of the middling and the conscience of the wealthy. Is it not a sacrilege to rob such as these, who do not know how to defraud others’ property?

[3] Quapropter opsonia Romano populo distribuenda ab illa indictione propitia tibi divinitate concedimus, ut sine aliqua imminutione percipere possit quod regia largitate promeruit. cave ne quod illi meruerunt, alter accipiat et tu a gratia nostra peregrinus reddaris, si a civico amore discesseris. non fiat Latialis pretio, qui civitatis illius non habet iura nascendo.

[3] Wherefore we grant the rations to be distributed to the Roman people from that indiction, by divinity propitious to you, so that they may be able to receive, without any diminution, what they have earned by royal largess. Beware lest what they have merited another should receive, and you be rendered a stranger to our favor, if you depart from civic love. Let not one become a Latian by a price, who does not have the rights of that city by being born.

honorandum semper est quod nomen gentibus dedit, quando potior in humanis rebus redditur, de cuius aliquid claritate praestatur. munera ista Quiritium sunt. non subripiat locum liberi fortuna servilis.

That which gave a name to the peoples must always be honored, since it is rendered the stronger in human affairs, from whose brilliance some distinction is bestowed. These are the offices of the Quirites. Let not a servile fortune steal the place of the freeborn.

in maiestatem populi Romani peccat, qui sanguinis illius puritatem famulorum societate commaculat.

He sins against the majesty of the Roman people who maculates the purity of that blood by the society of servants.

XII. ANASTASIO CANCELLARIO LUCANIAE ET BRUTTIORUM SENATOR PPO.

12. THE SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO ANASTASIUS, CHANCELLOR OF LUCANIA AND OF THE BRUTTII.

[1] Cum apud dominum rerum sollemni munere pranderemus et diversae provinciae de suis deliciis laudarentur, ad vina Bruttiorum et Silani casei suavitatem currente, ut assolet, sermone perventum est: quod herbarum beneficio tanta ibi naturae iucunditate conficitur, ut non credas deesse mellis gustum, quem nulla conspicis qualitate permixtum. manat illic leviter provocatum lac uberibus fistulosis et quasi in alios ventres naturae ubertate collectum non guttis impluit, sed quibusdam repentinis torrentibus influescit. redolet suavis et varius odor herbarum: naribus agnoscitur pecudum pastus, qui fragrans virtute diversa thuris sentitur inspirare similia.

[1] While we were lunching with the lord of the world in a solemn service, and the diverse provinces were being praised for their own delicacies, the talk, as is wont, ran round to the wines of the Bruttii and the pleasantness of Sila’s cheeses: which, by the benefit of herbs, are there produced with such a natural delightfulness that you would not think the taste of honey to be lacking—though you perceive no quality at all mixed in. There the milk, lightly provoked, flows from pipe-like teats, and, as if gathered by nature’s abundance into other bellies, it does not drip in drops, but streams in with certain sudden torrents. A sweet and various odor of herbs redolently exhales: by the nostrils the feeding of the flocks is recognized, which, fragrant with a distinct virtue, is felt to breathe forth things like frankincense.

[2] Huic tanta pinguedo sociatur, ut arbitreris simul decurrere Palladium liquorem, nisi quod ab illa prasina viriditate niveo candore discernitur. tunc cadis late patentibus copia illa mirabilis laeto nimium pastore suscepta cum ammixtione coaguli in callosam coeperit teneritudinem condurari, ad pulcherrimum orbem forma perducitur, quae subterraneis horreis aliquantulum congregata diuturnam casei facit esse substantiam. hoc quantocius superimpositum navigiis destinabis, ut desideriis regalibus parvo munere satisfecisse videamur.

[2] To this such fatness is allied that you would suppose the Palladian liquor were running together with it—save that from that leek-green verdancy it is distinguished by a snowy candor. Then, when that wondrous abundance, received by an overjoyful shepherd into jars gaping wide, has begun, with the admixture of rennet, to be hardened from tenderness into a callous firmness, the form is brought to a most beautiful wheel, which, gathered for a little while in subterranean storehouses, makes the substance of the cheese long-enduring. This, once superimposed upon ships, you will dispatch as quickly as possible, that we may seem to have satisfied royal desires with a small gift.

[3] Vinum quoque, quod laudare cupiens Palmatianum nominavit antiquitas, nos stipsim, asperum, sed gratum suavitate perquire. nam licet inter vina Bruttia videatur extremum, factum tamen est paene generali opinione praecipuum. ibi enim reperitur et Gazeto par et Sabino simile et magnis odoribus singulare.

[3] The wine also, which antiquity, wishing to praise, named Palmatianum, do you procure for us for a small coin, harsh but pleasing in sweetness. For although among the Bruttian wines it may seem the last, yet it has become by almost general opinion preeminent. For there is found there one both equal to the Gazetum and similar to the Sabine, and singular for great odors.

[4] Sed quia illud famam sibi nobilissimam vindicavit, hoc et in suo genere nimis elegans perquiratur, ne prudentia maiorum aliquid appellasse videatur inproprium. est enim suavi pinguedine molliter crassum, vivacitate firmissimum, nare violentum, candore quoque perspicuum, quod ita redolet ore ructatum, ut merito illi a palma nomen videatur impositum.

[4] But since that one has claimed for itself a most noble fame, let this too, exceedingly elegant in its own kind, be sought out, lest the prudence of the ancestors seem to have called anything improper. For it is softly thick with suave richness, by its liveliness most firm, violent to the nostril, perspicuous in its candor as well, which so redolently comes back, belched from the mouth, that deservedly a name from the palm seems to have been imposed upon it.

[5] Viscera defecta constringit, vulnera madida desiccat, lassum reficit pectus et quod vix praevalet implere potus arte compositus, hic naturaliter praestat infectus. sed provide ut supra dictas species exactas debeas destinare, quia falli non possumus, qui hoc patriotica veritate retinemus: ad praesens enim de cellariis nostris quae desiderabantur optulimus. tu autem tuo periculo dissimilia facis, quorum iam indicia teneri posse cognoscis.

[5] It constricts failing viscera, desiccates moist wounds, revives the weary breast; and what a drink compounded by art scarcely prevails to fulfill, this, unwrought, naturally supplies. But see to it that you dispatch the aforesaid species exact, because we cannot be deceived, who retain this with patriotic truth: for at present from our cellars we have proffered the things that were desired. You, however, at your own peril, make dissimilar wares, whose indicia you already recognize can be apprehended.

XIII. EDICTUM.

13. EDICT.

[1] Nisu contineri debet omnium largitas impensa dominorum, quando necesse est universis proficere, quod illos impulsu divinitatis probatum fuerit effecisse. pietas siquidem principum totum custodit imperium et dum illis vicissitudo digna redditur, incolumia rei publicae membra servantur. dudum siquidem imperialia constituta per Bruttios atque Lucaniam sacrosanctas ecclesias aliqua munerum devotione iuverunt.

[1] The largess—an expense of the lords—ought to be contained by exertion, since it is necessary that what they shall have accomplished, approved by an impulse of divinity, should benefit all. For the piety of princes guards the whole empire, and while a worthy reciprocity is rendered to them, the members of the commonwealth are kept unharmed. For formerly, indeed, imperial constitutions throughout the Bruttii and Lucania have aided the sacrosanct churches with a devotion of gifts.

sed ut est sacrilegis mentibus familiare et in ipsa quoque divina reverentia peccare, nonnullam exinde partem numerariorum nomine canonicarii subtrahebant, facientes laicum commodum substantiam clericorum.

but, as it is familiar to sacrilegious minds even to sin against divine reverence itself, the canonicarii were subtracting some part therefrom under the name of numerarii, making the substance of the clerics a lay profit.

[2] Quod sedis nostrae numerarii execratione detestabili respuentes numquam sibi illatum fuisse suggerunt, quod de tali scelere manus impiae fraudaverunt. quid adhuc, minime humana audacia, temptabis, si et ibi furta porrigis, ubi te minime latere posse cognoscis? ut inludas oculis fortasse mortalibus, quamvis iniqua, tamen aliqua videtur esse praesumptio: quanta vero caecitate damnatus est, qui se aestimat perpetrare quod divinitas non possit advertere!

[2] Which the accountants of our see, spurning with detestable execration, allege never to have been laid to themselves, namely that impious hands have defrauded in such a crime. What further, scarcely-human audacity, will you attempt, if you extend thefts even there where you know you can least lie hidden? To delude, perhaps, mortal eyes—however iniquitous, yet there seems to be some presumption; but with what blindness is he condemned who deems himself to perpetrate that which divinity cannot notice!

[3] Sed ne ulterius similis grassetur forte praesumptio aut divinam patientiam frequens provocare possit excessus, edictali programmate definimus, ut qui in hac fuerit ulterius fraude versatus, et militia careat et compendium propriae facultatis amittat. graviore siquidem poena plectendus est, qui usque ad iniuriam divinam suam nihilominus tetendit audaciam. habeant pauperes dona regnantum: possideant aliquid quibus nulla facultas est.

[3] But, lest a similar presumption perhaps run rampant further or frequent excess be able to provoke divine patience, we define by an edictal program that whoever shall henceforth have been engaged in this fraud both be deprived of service and lose the profit of his own means. for indeed he is to be punished with a heavier penalty who nevertheless has stretched his audacity even to an affront against divinity. let the poor have the gifts of rulers: let those possess something who have no resources.

[4] Cur aliena substantia in regali posita largitate pervaditur? possessio eius principis munus est. quemadmodum praesumat subiectus contingere quod deo respicit humilitatem dominantis offerre?

[4] Why is another’s substance, placed in regal largesse, being invaded? Its possession is the prince’s gift. How should a subject presume to touch that which respects God, to offer the humility of the ruler?

additur quod talibus non dare tulisse est, et merito: quando qui potest esurientibus subvenire, si non pascit, extinguit. pudeat illis tollere, quibus iubemur offerre. ultra omnes crudelitates est divitem velle fieri de exiguitate mendici.

It is added that to not give to such persons is to have taken away, and deservedly: since he who can succor the hungry, if he does not feed, extinguishes. Let it shame them to take away from those to whom we are commanded to offer. Beyond all cruelties is to wish to become rich out of a beggar’s meagerness.

amentur honesta lucra, horreantur damnosa compendia: nullus audeat inde tollere quod possit collecta dispergere. addendo perdit, qui retinendo collegerit et paupertatem potius ad se trahit, si egentium pecunias non repellit.

let honorable lucre be loved, let ruinous economies be shuddered at: let no one dare to take from there what, once collected, could be dispersed. by adding he loses, who has gathered by retaining; and he rather draws poverty to himself, if he does not repel the monies of the needy.

XIIII. ANASTASIO CANCELLARIO LUCANIAE ET BRUTTIORUM SENATOR PPO.

14. TO ANASTASIUS, CHANCELLOR OF LUCANIA AND OF THE BRUTTII SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Regenses cives ultimi Bruttiorum, quos a Siciliae corpore violenti quondam maris impetus segregavit, unde civitas eorum nomen accepit divisio enim 'region' Graeca lingua vocitatur, iniqua suggerunt exactorum se praesumptione fatigari, implorantes non aurium, sed oculorum nostrorum nota remedia, qui possumus scire territorium eorum quod petitur non habere. est enim montanis lapillis terra rarissima, arida pascuis, sed undosa vindemiis: segetibus adversa, sed olivis accommoda: et ideo cultura eius omnis in sarculis est, quia superficies ipsius sicca nutrire non valet superne nascentia. tergore illic ager nudus industria potius quam natura vestitur.

[1] The Regian citizens, the farthest of the Bruttii, whom the onrush of the sea once violently segregated from the body of Sicily—whence their city took its name, for “division” is called ‘region’ in the Greek tongue—submit that they are wearied by the presumption of the exactors, imploring remedies known not to our ears but to our eyes, we who can know that their territory does not have what is being demanded. For the soil, strewn with mountain pebbles, is most scant; arid for pastures, but billowy with vintages; adverse to grain-crops, but suitable for olives: and therefore all its cultivation is by hoes, because its dry surface cannot nourish things sprouting above. There the field, naked in its hide, is clothed by industry rather than by nature.

[2] Nam Palladiae silvae viriditate contegitur qui in solo aridissimus approbatur. talibus enim locis illa proficiunt, quae radicibus proceris ad humi penetrale descendunt. segetes rigantur, ut vivant et condicione mutata hoc aristis impenditur, quod oleribus exhibetur.

[2] For it is covered by the verdure of the Palladian forest, though it is acknowledged to be most arid in its soil. For in such places those plants thrive which, with tall roots, descend to the recess of the ground. The grain-crops are irrigated so that they may live, and, with the condition reversed, this is expended upon the ears which is furnished to greens.

quanta seges est, quae manu colitur? raro illic ab area venit umeris gravatus agricola, ut non messes in horreis colligere, sed vix possit aliquos cophinos de summa ubertate complere.

How great a crop is there, which is tilled by hand? Rarely there does the farmer come from the threshing-floor weighed down upon his shoulders, so that he is not gathering harvests into granaries, but can scarcely fill a few cophins (baskets) from the highest fertility.

[3] In hortis autem rusticorum agmen habetur operosum, quia holus illic omne saporum est dum marina inroratione respersum: quod humana industria fieri consuevit, hoc cum nutriretur accepit. contra Maronis autem sententiam intiborum illic fibrae dulcissimae sunt, quae praecinctae foliis tortuosis callosa teneritudine conglobantur: unde in morem vitri aliquid decerptum frangitur, dum a fecundo cespite segregatur.

[3] In the gardens, however, of rustics there is maintained a laborious host, because every vegetable there is of all flavors, while sprinkled by a marine inroration: what is wont to be done by human industry, this it received as it was being nourished. But contrary to Maro’s opinion, the fibers of endives there are most sweet, which, girded with twisted leaves, are conglobated with a callous tenderness: whence, in the manner of glass, that which is plucked is broken, while it is segregated from the fertile turf.

[4] His victualibus, si vis nosse, regio illa fecunda est: nam et marinis deliciis copiosa iucunditate perfruitur, quia ibi mare supernum atque infernum, insertis frontibus adunatum, delicias utriusque pelagi in unam congregationem sinus sui volubilitate perducit. necesse est enim illic et pisces properare, ubi constat et undam posse defluere.

[4] With these victuals, if you wish to know, that region is fecund: for it also fully enjoys, with copious delight, marine delicacies, because there the upper and the lower sea, brought together with headlands thrust forward, by the eddying of its own bay leads the delights of each deep into one gathering. For it is necessary that fish too hasten there, where it is agreed that even the water can flow away.

[5] Exormiston quoque, inter pisces regium genus, compar murenis corpore, sed colore distans, naribus setosis, colostrea delicatitudine praeditum, oleoso ac suavi liquore coagulatum, appetibilis grataque pinguedo, cum spumis fluctuantibus inter aeris confinia coeperit enatare, nescit ad cubilia redire quae deserit: credo aut immemor reversionis aut teneritudine summa mollitus nequit undis elevantibus contraria obluctatione demergere. fertur velut corpus exanime, nullis nisibus periculum, nulla arte devitans et hinc viribus destitutus redire non creditur, quia nec fugere posse sentitur. hic plane tantae dulcedinis esse dinoscitur, ut ei nemo piscium comparetur.

[5] The exormiston too, a regal kind among fishes, comparable to moray-eels in body but differing in color, with bristly nostrils, endowed with a colostral delicacy, coagulated with an oily and sweet liquor, a desirable and pleasing fatness—when it begins to swim up with the foams billowing at the confines of the air, it does not know how to return to the lairs it abandons: I suppose either forgetful of returning or softened by extreme tenderness, it cannot, with the waves lifting it, plunge down by a contrary struggling. It is borne like a lifeless body, by no efforts avoiding danger, by no art evading it, and thus, destitute of strength, is not believed to return, because it is not perceived to be able to flee. This one is plainly discerned to be of such sweetness that no fish is compared to it.

[6] Haec sunt in litore Regino quae diximus, quod non alio referente cognovimus, etsi visuali probatione retinemus. quapropter laridi atque tritici species nullis temporibus coemptionis nomine inde decernimus postulari, quia nimis calumniose petitur, quod loci beneficio non habetur. deinde sufficere debet defensio veritatis et testimonium iudicis, quia nimis execrabile malum est, si, cum aliud noverit conscientia, aliud lingua decernat.

[6] These are on the Regian shore the things we have mentioned, which we have not learned from another’s report, albeit we retain them by visual proof. Wherefore supplies of lard and of wheat we decree are not to be demanded from there at any time under the name of coemption, because with too calumnious a spirit there is sought what, by the benefit of the place, is not had. Then the defense of truth and the testimony of the judge ought to suffice, because it is a most execrable evil if, when conscience knows one thing, the tongue decrees another.

additur etiam quod tantis commeantium fatigatur adventibus, tanta excurrentium laceratione deteritur, ut rationabiliter illi remitti debuisset vel quod apud ipsam nasci posse constaret.

it is further added that it is fatigued by such great arrivals of those journeying, and is worn down by such laceration by those running out, that it ought, reasonably, to have had remitted to it even that which could be ascertained to be able to be produced at the place itself.

XV. MAXIMO V. C. CANCELLARIO LUCANIAE ET BRUTTIORUM SENATOR PPO.

15. TO MAXIMUS, A MOST DISTINGUISHED MAN, CHANCELLOR OF LUCANIA AND THE BRUTTII, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Scyllaceum prima urbium Bruttiorum, quam Troiae destructor Ulixes legitur condidisse, inrationabiliter dicitur praesumentium nimietate vexari, quod nobis praesidentibus non oportuisset assumi: quia laesiones eius cogimur plus dolere, dum patriotica nos probatur affectione contingere. civitas supra sinum Hadriaticum constituta in modum botryonis pendet in collibus, non quod difficili ascensione turgescat, sed ut voluptuose campos virentes et caerula maris terga respiciat.

[1] Scyllaceum, the first of the cities of the Bruttii, which Ulysses, the destroyer of Troy, is read to have founded, is said unreasonably to be harassed by the excess of the presuming—something which ought not to have been undertaken with us presiding; for we are compelled to grieve the more at its injuries, since it is shown to touch us with patriotic affection. The city, set above the Adriatic gulf, hangs upon the hills in the manner of a bunch of grapes—not because it swells with a difficult ascent, but so that it may with pleasure look back upon the green fields and the cerulean backs of the sea.

[2] Haec nascentem solem ab ipsis cunabulis intuetur, ubi ventura dies non praemittit auroram, sed mox ut oriri coeperit, lampadem suam vibrans fulgor ostendit. gaudentem respicit Phoebum: propria illic luminis claritate resplendet, ut ipsa magis solis putetur esse patria Rhodi opinione superata. fruitur luce perspicua: aeris quoque temperatione donata apricas hiemes, refrigeratas sentit aestates et sine aliquo maerore transigitur, ubi infesta tempora non timentur.

[2] This one gazes upon the nascent sun from its very cradles, where the coming day does not send ahead the dawn, but, as soon as it has begun to rise, the brilliance, brandishing its own lamp, displays itself. It looks upon Phoebus rejoicing: there it resplends with its own brightness of light, so that it is thought to be more the fatherland of the sun itself, with Rhodes’ claim overcome. It enjoys a perspicuous light: endowed also with the temperateness of the air, it feels sunny winters, cooled summers, and the time is spent without any sorrow, where hostile seasons are not feared.

hinc et homo sensu liberior est, quia temperies cuncta moderatur.

Hence also man is freer in sense, because temperateness moderates all things.

[3] Patria siquidem fervens leves efficit et acutos, frigida tardos et subdolos: sola temperata est, quae mores hominum sua qualitate componit. hinc est quod antiqui Athenas sedem sapientium esse dixerunt, quae aeris puritate peruncta lucidissimos sensus ad contemplativam partem felici largitate praeparavit. numquid enim tale est corpori aquas caenosas sorbere, quale perspicuitatem dulcissimi fontis haurire?

[3] Indeed a hot country makes men light and acute, a cold (one) slow and subdolous (sly): only the temperate is that which composes the manners of men by its own quality. Hence it is that the ancients said Athens was the seat of the wise, which, anointed by the purity of the air, by a felicitous largess prepared the most lucid senses for the contemplative part. For is it anything the same for the body to sip muddy waters as to draw the perspicuity of a most sweet fountain?

sic animae vigor oneratur, dum spiritu graviore comprimitur. subiacemus enim necessario talibus rebus, quando nubilo tristes efficimur et iterum naturaliter ad serena gaudemus, quia caelestis animae substantia ad infecta *** et purissima quaeque laetatur.

thus the vigor of the soul is burdened, while it is compressed by a heavier spirit. for we necessarily lie beneath such things, when by cloudiness we are made sad and again by nature we rejoice at serene skies, because the celestial substance of the soul rejoices at the untainted ***, and at whatever things are most pure.

[4] Fruitur marinis quoque copiosa deliciis, dum possidet vicina quae nos fecimus claustra Neptunia: ad pedem siquidem Moscii montis saxorum visceribus excavatis fluenta Nerei gurgitis decenter immisimus, ubi agmen piscium sub libera captivitate ludentium et delectatione reficit animos et ammiratione mulcet optutus. currunt avidi ad manus hominum et antequam cibi fiant, escas expetunt. pascit homo delicias suas et dum habet in potestate quod capiat, frequenter evenit, ut repletus omnia derelinquat.

[4] It also enjoys copious marine delicacies, since it possesses the neighboring Neptunian enclosures which we have made: for at the foot of Mount Moscius, with the bowels of the rocks excavated, we fittingly let in the streams of Nereus’s whirlpool, where a shoal of fish, playing under free captivity, both refreshes the spirits by delectation and soothes the gaze with admiration. They run eager to the hands of men, and before they become food, they seek out the baits. Man feeds his own delights, and while he has in his power what he might seize, it frequently comes to pass that, filled, he leaves everything behind.

[5] Spectaculum quoque pulchre laborantium non adimitur in civitate sedentibus. cernuntur affatim copiosae vindemiae, arearum pinguis tritura conspicitur, olivarum quoque virentium vultus aperitur. non eget aliquis agrorum amoenitate, cui datum est de urbe cuncta conspicere.

[5] The spectacle too of those laboring is not taken away from those sitting in the city. Copious vintages are seen in plenty; the rich threshing of the floors is beheld; the visage of the greening olives likewise is laid open. No one lacks the amenity of the fields, to whom it has been given to behold all things from the city.

hoc quia modo non habet muros, civitatem credis ruralem, villam iudicare possis urbanam et inter utrumque posita, copiosa noscitur laude ditata.

Since for the moment it does not have walls, you would think the city rural; you could judge the villa urban; and, set between the two, it is known as enriched with copious praise.

[6] Hanc dum frequenter invisere desiderant commeantes, dum taedia laboris refugere cupiunt, amoenitate civitatis in paraveredorum et annonarum praebitione proprii cives fatigantur expensis. quapropter ne laedat urbem amoenitas sua aut res praeconii fiat causa dispendii, paraveredorum et annonarum praebitionem secundum evectiones concessas in assem publicum constituimus imputari.

[6] As those coming and going desire to visit this place frequently, as they wish to flee the tedium of toil, by the amenity of the city its own citizens are wearied with expenses in the provision of relay-horses and rations. Wherefore, lest its own amenity harm the city or a thing of proclamation become a cause of loss, we have decreed that the provision of relay-horses and rations, according to the evections granted, be charged in full to the public account.

[7] Pulveratica quoque iudicis funditus amputantes trium tantum etiam dierum praesulibus annonas praeberi secundum vetera constituta decernimus, suis expensis facta tarditate vecturis. leges enim administrantes remedio, non oneri esse voluerunt. qua de re aequitatis intuitu civitas nostra *** relevare iudiciarium est, quod tibi referimus, non remissum.

[7] Cutting off also from the root the judge’s pulveraticum (road-dust levy), we decree that rations be furnished to the presiding officials for only three days as well, according to the ancient constitutions, delays in the conveyances being at their own expense. For those administering the laws wished to be a remedy, not a burden. Wherefore, with an eye to equity, it is our city’s *** to relieve the judicial burden, as we report to you, not to remit it.

vive iuvante deo iustitia saeculi et securitatis gaudio singulari. alii dicant insulas, ego habitationes tuas appellem potius Fortunatas.

Live, with God helping, by the justice of the age and with a singular joy of security. Let others call them islands; I would rather call your habitations Fortunate.

XVI. CANONICARIA.

16. CANONICARY.

[1] Tempus ammonet humanis rebus indesinenter accommodum, dum res nobis etiam asperas captata semper opportunitate conciliat, ut illationum fiscalium curam annua festivitate reparemus, quando rei publicae ordo tali consistere cernitur instituto. et merito votivum, quod pro cunctorum utilitate praestatur. diligenda sunt ista, unde res publica videtur esse firmissima, quae dum redeunte censu reficitur, status sui firmissimo robore continetur.

[1] The time admonishes, continuously accommodative to human affairs, since, by always seizing the opportune moment, it conciliates even harsh matters for us, so that by an annual festivity we may repair the care of fiscal illations, since the order of the commonwealth is seen to stand by such an institution. And deservedly it is votive, because it is rendered for the utility of all. These things are to be cherished, whence the commonwealth seems to be most firm; for, while with the census returning it is refurbished, its status is sustained by most stalwart robustness.

[2] Quapropter magna est quolibet tempore monstrata devotio, sed tunc acceptior redditur, quando necessaria plus habetur. praebeant igitur possessores stipendia suae gratiae profutura. debitum siquidem quod non potest evitari, prona debet mente semper offerri, ut fiat beneficium, quod sine compulsione constat illatum.

[2] Wherefore great is the devotion shown at any time, but it is rendered more acceptable then, when necessity is greater. Let the possessors therefore provide stipends that will be to the advantage of their own grace. For the debt which cannot be avoided ought always to be offered with a ready mind, so that what is brought in without compulsion may become a beneficium.

[3] Atque ideo, quod feliciter dictum sit, per indictionem primam in dioecesi tua possessorem te praecipimus ammonere, ut trina illatione servata assem tributarium devotus exsolvat, quatinus nec aliquis se sub immatura compulsione ingemiscat exactum nec iterum remissione protelata quisquam se dicat esse praeteritum. nullus quantitatem iustae ponderationis excedat sitque libra iustissima: modus non erit rapiendi, si pondera fas sit excedi.

[3] And therefore, that it may be said felicitously, through the first indiction in your diocese we command you to admonish the possessor, that, the threefold illation being observed, he devoutly pay up the tributary as, so that neither may anyone groan at exaction under premature compulsion, nor again, with remission prolonged, may anyone say that he has been passed over. Let no one exceed the amount of just weighing, and let the balance be most just: there will be no measure to rapine, if it be lawful to exceed the weights.

[4] Expensarum quoque fidelem notitiam per quaternos menses ad scrinia nostra sollemniter destinabis, ut totius erroris obscuritate detersa rationibus publicis veritas elucescat. sed quo facilius possis iuvante deo quae sunt statuta complere, illum atque illum sedis nostrae milites tibi officioque tuo periculorum suorum memores praecipimus imminere, quatinus quod agnoscis iussum, inculpabiliter sortiatur effectum. cave ergo ne te aut improbae redemptionis aut torpentis desidiae culpa respiciat et quod expedire neglexeris, tuis inferat damna fortunis.

[4] You will also solemnly dispatch a faithful notice of expenses at four‑month intervals to our archives, so that, the obscurity of every error having been wiped away, truth may shine forth in the public accounts. But that you may more easily, with God helping, complete what has been statuted, we order this man and that man, soldiers of our See, mindful of their own perils, to attend upon you and your office, so that what you acknowledge as the mandate may, blamelessly, obtain its effect. Beware, therefore, lest the fault either of improper redemption or of torpid sloth look upon you, and lest what you have neglected to expedite bring damage upon your fortunes.

XVII. IOHANNI LIQUATARIO RAVENNATI ATHALARICUS REX.

17.
TO JOHN THE LIQUATOR OF RAVENNA, ATHALARIC THE KING.

[1] Munitio civitatum spes est certa cunctorum, quando in pace ab exteris gentibus discitur, quod veraciter in certamine timeatur. plena est enim diversis generibus hominum habitatio urbium singularum. quis novit cum qua gente confligat?

[1] The fortification of cities is the sure hope of all, since in peace it is learned from foreign nations what is truly to be feared in conflict. For the habitation of each city is full of diverse kinds (genera) of men. Who knows with which nation he will come into conflict?

ideoque omnes debent agnoscere quod futuris hostibus gratum non sit audire. quapropter ex nostra iussione possessores ammonere curabis, ut iuxta montem Caprarium et loca circumiecta muris fovearum ingentia ora pandantur talisque ibi pateat hiatus, ut nullus ibi relinquatur introitus. cur, nefandi homines, perscrutamini accessus inlicitos, quibus portarum permittitur licenter ingressus?

and therefore all ought to acknowledge that it will not be pleasing for future enemies to hear. Wherefore, by our injunction, you will take care to admonish the proprietors, that near Mount Caprarius and in the places encircled by walls the vast mouths of trenches be opened, and that such a yawning gap lie open there that no entrance be left there. Why, nefarious men, do you scrutinize illicit accesses, by which a licentious ingress of the gates is permitted?

nescio quid videmini tegere, qui palam non desideratis intrare.

I know not what you seem to conceal, you who do not desire to enter openly.

[2] Conscientia recta vias publicas tenet, obviorum collocutione gratulatur et cum diversos gratanter inquirit, laboris taedio non gravatur. amicum est autem crimini velle nesciri et qui vias suas occulit, conscientiam prodit. proinde in usus generales itinera prisca revocentur, ne, dum compendium laboris quaerunt, vitae dispendia patiantur.

[2] A right conscience holds to the public roads, rejoices in the conversation of those it meets, and gladly inquires among strangers, nor is it burdened by the tedium of toil. But to wish to be unknown is friendly to crime, and he who hides his paths betrays his conscience. Accordingly, let the ancient routes be recalled to general use, lest, while they seek a compendium of labor, they suffer losses to life.

ille enim iure habendus est hostis, qui munimina nititur violare civitatis.

for indeed he is by right to be held an enemy, who strives to violate the fortifications of the city.

XVIII. CONSTANTINIANO VIRO EXPERIENTISSIMO SENATOR PPO.

18. TO CONSTANTINIANUS, A MOST EXPERIENCED MAN, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Regius apparatus sicut neglegentibus affert periculum, sic strenue laborantibus praestat ornatum, quia praemium est vitae domino vidente servire, cui nec culpa celari nec bonum possit abscondi. quam gratum est sine offensione aliqua iter agere destinatum, videre indicia diligentiae, dubia sine timore transire, gressu facili montuosa conscendere, in pontibus cum trabium mobilitate non tremere viamque sic conficere, ut omnia probentur animo convenisse! militiam vestram transcenditis, si rerum domino placere possitis.

[1] The royal apparatus, just as it brings peril to the negligent, so it affords ornament to those laboring strenuously, because it is the reward of life to serve with the lord seeing, to whom neither fault can be concealed nor good hidden. How pleasing it is to pursue the destined journey without any offense, to see the indicia of diligence, to pass doubtful places without fear, to ascend mountainous regions with an easy step, not to tremble on bridges at the mobility of the beams, and to complete the way thus, that all things are approved to have suited the mind! You transcend your service, if you can please the lord of things.

nam cui nos parere contendimus, magnus provectus est si mereamini ad eius placidos venire conspectus.

for the one whom we strive to obey, it is a great advance if you may merit to come before his placid gaze.

[2] Quocirca iter Flaminiae rivis sulcantibus exaratum, hiantes ripas latissima pontium interiectione coniungite, oppressas margines platearum asperrimis silvis enudate. paraveredorum adscriptus numerus procuretur cum electa qualitate membrorum: annonarum designatarum copia sine aliquo possessorum dispendio congregetur, quia sic omnia grata redditis, si in nulla parte peccetis. res una subtracta cuncta deformat et totum deesse creditur, ubi vel minima querela asperitas commovetur.

[2] Wherefore join the route of the Flaminia, ploughed up by rivulets furrowing it, connect the gaping banks by the very broad interposition of bridges, lay bare the oppressed margins of the roadways from the roughest woods. Let the enrolled number of post-horses be procured with a selected quality of limbs; let a supply of designated provisions be gathered without any loss of the possessors, because thus you render all things pleasing, if you err in no part. One thing subtracted disfigures the whole, and the whole is thought to be lacking, where harshness is stirred even by the least complaint.

[3] Species praeterea, quae mensis regiis apparantur, exactas tota sedulitate perquirite. nam quid proderit exercitui satisfacere, si vos contigerit in ipsa dominorum pastione peccare? pareant provinciales ammoniti: civitates singulae declarata brevibus subministrent.

[3] Furthermore, the items which are prepared for the royal tables, perquire to exactness with total sedulity. For what will it profit to satisfy the army, if it should befall you to err in the very repast of the lords? Let the provincials, admonished, obey: let individual cities supply the things declared in the briefs.

nam quotiens laeto principi occurritur, efficaciter beneficia postulantur. cogitate etiam, quod praesens facta vestra diiudico: aut gratias vobis domini gaudens reddo aut commotionem principis iratus attribuo. agite ergo, ne mihi imputetur vester excessus, quia cunctis de vobis satisfacio, quos culpis vestris offendero.

for as often as a joyful prince is encountered, benefits are effectually petitioned. consider also that, being present, I adjudge your deeds: either, rejoicing as lord, I render thanks to you, or, angered, I attribute the prince’s commotion. act therefore, lest your excess be imputed to me, because I make satisfaction to all concerning you, whom I shall have offended by your faults.

persolvat mihi potius gratiam universus exercitus. magna vobis erit gloria et me securum reddere et tantorum bona iudicia meruisse.

Let the entire army rather render me gratitude. Great glory will be yours both to render me secure and to have merited the good judgments of such great men.

XVIIII. MAXIMO VICARIO URBIS ROMAE SENATOR PPO.

19. THE SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO MAXIMUS, VICAR OF THE CITY OF ROME.

[1] Adventum quidem regium ex ipsa potestis cognoscere frequentia commeantum, quia necesse est ut res magna competentia praemittat semper indicia. venturum diem Lucifer demonstrat exortus: serena secutura favens ventus ostendit: imminentia bona quadam animi praesagatione dinoscimus et difficile magna res geritur, quae signorum praecursione minime declaretur.

[1] You can indeed recognize the royal advent from the very frequency of comings-and-goings, because it is necessary that a great affair always pre-send appropriate indicia. the rising of Lucifer demonstrates the day that is to come: a favoring wind shows that serene weather will follow: we discern imminent goods by a certain presaging of the mind, and it is difficult for a great matter to be carried on which is not declared by the precursion of signs.

[2] Verumtamen et nos necessario commonemus, ut pontis iunctione Tiberinos fluctus sollemniter vestiatis, quatenus transitum praebeat intremulum fixum concatenatione navigium et de suo situ celerem nobis praestet excursum. non moveatur pigris funibus, ut solebat: non manibus trahentium moles tanta torpescat: celeritatem potius fixa conferat, quam se movens antea non praebebat. ambulent commeantium greges profecto, non navigent: incisa nos unda deportet.

[2] Nevertheless we also necessarily admonish, that by the joining of a bridge you solemnly clothe the Tiberine waves, so that a tremulous boat, fixed by concatenation, may afford a crossing and from its own station may grant us a swift excursion. Let it not be moved by sluggish ropes, as it was accustomed; let not so great a mass grow torpid by the hands of those dragging; rather, fixed, let it confer speed, which, when moving itself before, it did not provide. Let the throngs of those coming-and-going walk, assuredly, not sail: let the cleft wave carry us along.

sic decet dominum suscipi, ut aliqua debeat novitate gratulari.

thus it befits that the lord be received, so that he ought to be congratulated with some novelty.

[3] Tabularum fortiter iunctura constricta soliditatem debet praebere necessariam, ut pavorem undas dubitantium terrena similitudine possit auferre. optetur quin immo longior fuisse, cum transitur innocue. cancellorum tutamen dextra laevaque decenter aptetur: prosper datur transitus, cum fuerit casus asper exclusus.

[3] The joining of the boards, firmly constrained, ought to provide the necessary solidity, so that by an earthly similitude it can remove the fear of those hesitating at the waves. Nay rather, let it be desired that it had been longer, when it is crossed harmlessly. Let the safeguard of the railings (cancelli) be suitably fitted on the right and on the left: a prosperous passage is granted, when harsh mishap has been shut out.

vide quemadmodum reliqua ad te pertinentia praepares, qui te occursurum esse cognoscis. quale est enim in tanta frequentia non potuisse culpari! universos affligit, qui regi aliquid necessarium subtrahit, quia, dum laetus optatur ab omnibus, cunctos contristat, si probetur offensus.

see how you prepare the rest pertaining to you, you who know that you are going to meet him. for what a thing it is, in so great a multitude, not to have been able to be blamed! he afflicts all who withholds something necessary to the king, because, while he is joyfully desired by all, he saddens everyone if he is found to be offended.

[4] Adde quod sic praeclarum est sub tanta senatorum occursione laudari, principem sic suscipere, ut omnes intellegant nil deesse, ante ipsum quoque dominum venire laetum quam aliqua trepidatione confusum. insperatum bonum est, si is ad quem deceptionis pertinet periculum sibi gratiae procuret augmentum. in quam rem illum sedis nostrae militem nos direxisse cognosce, qui tibi officioque tuo debeat imminere, quatenus nobis omnia parata renuntiet, quia committi non potest casui, quod nostro periculo constat adscribi.

[4] Add that it is so splendid, under so great a concourse of senators, to be praised, to receive the prince in such a way that all understand nothing is lacking, to come before the lord himself glad rather than confounded by any trepidation. An unhoped-for good it is, if he to whom the danger of deception pertains procures for himself an augmentation of favor. For which matter know that we have directed that soldier of our seat, who ought to stand over you and your office, so far as that he may report back to us that all things are prepared, because that which is agreed to be ascribed to our peril cannot be committed to chance.

XX. THOMATI ET PETRO VV. CC. ARCARIIS SENATOR PPO.

20. TO THOMATUS AND PETER, MOST DISTINGUISHED MEN, TREASURERS. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Retinetis mecum, fidelissimi viri, sanctum Agapitum urbis Romae papam, cum ad Orientis principem legationis gratia mitteretur iussione regia, datis pignoribus a vobis tot libras auri facto pittacio sollemniter accepisse, ut cui providus dominator iussit, ad subitum eius etiam urgeret egressum. primum quidem benigne praestitit qui in necessitate mutuas pecunias dedit: sed quanto gloriosius fecit etiam illud largiri, quod cum gratiarum actione potuisset offerri!

[1] You retain with me, most faithful men, Saint Agapitus, pope of the city of Rome, when he was being sent to the prince of the East for the sake of a legation by royal injunction, to have solemnly received from you, pledges having been given and a formal chit drawn up, so many pounds of gold, so that, for the one whom the provident lord had ordered, it might also urge his sudden egress. First indeed he kindly provided who, in a necessity, gave monies on loan: but how much more gloriously he did also to bestow as largess that which could have been tendered with a giving of thanks!

[2] Victa est sine damno necessitas: manus papae dabat quod eius substantia non habebat et iter illud est indemne redditum, quod donis constat expletum. quale, rogo, videbatur antistitem petentibus profundere et ecclesiam nulla detrimenta sentire? distributor fuit potius quam donator, quia necesse est illi applicari, de cuius facultatibus videbatur expendi.

[2] Necessity was conquered without damage: the pope’s hand was giving what his substance did not have, and that journey was rendered unscathed, since it is agreed to have been filled up by gifts. What kind, I ask, did it seem—that the prelate poured forth to the petitioners and the church felt no detriments? He was a distributor rather than a donor, because it must be ascribed to him, from whose faculties it seemed to be expended.

quid non agat apud pium principem talis legatio, quam destinatam singulari constat exemplo?

What will such a legation not accomplish before a pious prince, which is established to have been appointed for a singular example?

[3] Quapropter nostra praeceptione commoniti et regia iussione securi sanctorum vasa cum obligatione chirographi actoribus sancti Petri apostoli sine aliqua dilatione refundite, ut lucrose reddita celeriter impetrare videantur optata: referantur manibus levitarum ministeria toto orbe narranda: donetur quod proprium fuit, quando iuste per largitatem recipit quod sacerdos legibus obligavit.

[3] Wherefore, admonished by our precept and secure by the royal injunction, restore without any delay the sacred vessels, with the obligation of a chirograph, to the agents of Saint Peter the Apostle, so that, advantageously returned, the desired things may seem to be quickly obtained: let the ministries to be recounted through the whole world be borne back by the hands of the levites: let that which was proper be donated, since through largess he justly receives what the priest bound by the laws.

[4] Superatum est exemplum quod in historia nostra magna intentione retulimus. nam cum rex Alaricus urbis Romae depraedatione satiatus apostoli Petri vasa suis deferentibus excepisset, mox ut rei causam habita interrogatione cognovit, sacris liminibus deportari diripientium manibus imperavit, ut cupiditas, quae depraedationis ambitu admiserat scelus, devotione largissima deleret excessum. sed quid mirum, si reverenda sanctorum diripere noluit, qui tanta se urbis vastatione ditavit?

[4] The example which we have related in our history with great intention has been surpassed. For when King Alaric, sated with the depredation of the City of Rome, had received the vessels of the apostle Peter, his own men bearing them, as soon as, an inquiry having been held, he learned the cause of the matter, he commanded that they be conveyed to the sacred thresholds from the hands of the despoilers, so that cupidity, which within the ambit of depredation had committed the crime, might by most lavish devotion expunge the excess. But what is there to wonder at, if he was unwilling to despoil the reverend things of the saints, who enriched himself by so great a devastation of the city?

[5] Rex autem noster religioso proposito reddidit vasa, quae iure pignoris propria videbantur effecta. et ideo talibus factis frequens praestetur oratio, quando laeta concedi posse credimus, cum retributionem bonis actibus postulamus.

[5] But our king, with a religious purpose, returned the vessels, which by the right of pledge seemed to have been made one’s own property. And therefore for such deeds let frequent prayer be rendered, since we believe joyful things can be granted, when we ask for retribution for good acts.

XXI. DEUSDEDIT SCRIBAE RAVENNATI SENATOR PPO.

21. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO DEUSDEDIT, SCRIBE AT RAVENNA.

[1] Scribarum officium securitas solet esse cunctorum, quando ius omnium eius sollicitudine custoditur. alios enim depopulantur incendia: alios nudat furtiva subreptio: nonnullis neglegentia perit quod diligens auctor adquirit: sed de fide publica robustissime reparatur quicquid a privatis amittitur.

[1] The office of the scribes is wont to be the security of all, since the right of all is guarded by its solicitude. For conflagrations ravage some; furtive subreption strips others; for some, negligence destroys what a diligent agent acquires: but by the public faith there is most robustly restored whatever is lost by private persons.

[2] Diligentior est in alienis quam potest esse cura de propriis: non admonitus facit quod vix rogatus impleret et requisitus non potest negare quod is cuius interest se fatetur amisisse. armarium ipsius fortuna cunctorum est et merito refugium omnium dicitur, ubi universorum securitas invenitur. ad paterna transit officia, si incorrupte sit veritas custodita.

[2] He is more diligent in others’ matters than care can be about one’s own: unprompted he does what scarcely, even when asked, he would fulfill; and when required he cannot deny what he whose interest it is confesses that he has lost. His archive is the fortune of all, and deservedly it is called the refuge of everyone, where the security of all is found. It passes to paternal offices, if truth has been kept incorrupt.

nam sicut diligens genitor servat quod otiosus successor inveniat, sic arbiter partium nullum patitur propria utilitate fraudari.

for just as a diligent father preserves what an otiose successor may find, so the arbiter of the parties allows no one to be defrauded of his proper advantage.

[3] Et ideo tantae rei iugiter praecipimus esse custodem, ut qui hactenus de integritate placuisti, nulla debeas varietate fuscari. vide quid tibi committitur antiqua fides et cotidiana diligentia. dirimis iurgantium litem: apud cunctos praesules de tua cura litigatur et tu potius iudicas, qui causarum vincla dissolvis.

[3] And therefore we continually enjoin you to be the custodian of so great a matter, that you who hitherto have pleased by integrity should be darkened by no variability. Consider what is entrusted to you: ancient faith and daily diligence. You sunder the suit of wranglers; before all prelates there is litigation about your charge, and you are rather the judge, you who loosen the bonds of causes.

hoc honorabile decus, indisputabile testimonium: vox antiqua chartarum cum de tuis adytis incorrupta processerit, cognitores reverenter excipiunt: litigantes quamvis improbi coacti tamen oboediunt. et cum fas sit promulgatam sententiam suspendi, tibi non licet obviari.

this honorable distinction, an indisputable testimony: when the ancient voice of the charters has gone forth uncorrupted from your inner sanctuaries, the cognitors receive it reverently; the litigants, although wicked, nevertheless, being compelled, obey. And although it may be lawful that a promulgated sentence be suspended, it is not permitted to oppose you.

[4] Quocirca non habeas venale propositum. tinea documentorum est oblatio maligna redimentis, dum quaerunt consumere quod se cognoverint impedire. pascat te editio decora veritatis: facultas tua habeatur integritas.

[4] Wherefore do not have a venal purpose. the malicious offering of the briber is the moth of documents, while they seek to consume what they have recognized to hinder them. let the decorous publication of truth feed you: let integrity be held as your means.

da petentibus quae olim facta sunt. translator esto, non conditor antiquorum gestorum. exemplar velut anulum ceris imprime, ut sicut vultus expressa non possunt signa refugere, ita manus tua ab authentico nequeat discrepare.

give to the petitioners the things that were once done. be a translator, not an originator of ancient deeds. imprint the exemplar like a ring upon wax, so that, just as the impressed signs cannot flee from the visage, so your hand may not be able to differ from the authentic.

[5] Quod si te aliquis iniqua subreptione traduxerit, quemadmodum in alia causa tibi adquiescat credi quem scit potuisse corrumpi? inpugnat te fraude sua et facile convincit, quem in una parte deceperit. ama iustitiam, de qua nemo queritur, ut etiam iratus testimonium salubre possit dicere, qui te in cassum voluit deviare.

[5] But if someone by iniquitous subreption has traduced you, how, in another case, will he acquiesce that you be believed, who knows that you could have been corrupted? He impugns you by his fraud and easily convicts you, whom he has deceived in one part. Love justice, about which no one complains, so that even angry, he who wished in vain to make you deviate may be able to speak a salutary testimony.

publicum est omne quod feceris, dum aut laudatus gratiam aut accusatus invenire possis offensam.

Everything you do is public, so long as you can find either favor when lauded or offense when accused.

XXII. PROVINCIALIBUS HISTRIAE SENATOR PPO.

22. TO THE PROVINCIALS OF HISTRIA, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Expensae publicae diversa temporum varietate titubantes hac ratione se poterunt continere, si proventum locorum sequatur salubritas iussionum. illic enim facilis est procuratio, ubi fuerit fructus uberior. nam si indicatur quod sterilitas ieiuna denegavit, tunc et provincia laeditur et effectus optabilis non habetur.

[1] public expenses, stumbling through the diverse variety of times, will be able to contain themselves by this rationale, if the salubrity of injunctions follows the yield of the places. for there procuration is easy, where the fruit has been more abundant. for if there is assessed that which lean sterility has denied, then both the province is injured and the desirable effect is not obtained.

commeantium igitur attestatione didicimus Histriam provinciam a tribus egregiis fructibus sub laude nominatam, divino munere gravidam vini, olei vel tritici, praesenti anno fecunditate gratulari. et ideo memoratae species in tot solidos datae pro tributaria functione vobis de praesenti prima indictione reputentur: reliqua vero propter sollemnes expensas relinquimus devotae provinciae.

Therefore by the attestation of wayfarers we have learned that the province of Histria, named with praise for three excellent fruits, by divine gift gravid with wine, oil, or wheat, rejoices in fecundity this present year. And therefore let the aforementioned kinds, given at so many solidi for the tributary function, be reckoned to you from the present first Indiction: the remainder, however, on account of the solemn expenses, we leave to the devoted province.

[2] Sed quoniam nobis in maiore summa sunt quaerenda quae diximus, tot solidos etiam de arca nostra transmisimus, ut res necessariae sine vestro dispendio uberrime debeant congregari. frequenter enim, dum extraneis urgemini vendere, soletis damna sentire, eo praesertim tempore, cum vobis peregrinus emptor ereptus est et rarum est aurum capere, quando mercatores cognoscitis non adesse. quanto vero melius est parere dominis quam praestare longinquis et debita fructibus solvere quam ementum fastidia sustinere!

[2] But since for us the things we have said are to be sought in a greater sum, we have likewise transmitted from our chest the same number of solidi, so that the necessary things ought to be gathered most abundantly without your expense. For frequently, while you are pressed to sell to outsiders, you are wont to feel losses—especially at that time when the foreign buyer has been snatched away from you, and it is rare to take gold when you perceive that merchants are not present. How much better, indeed, it is to obey your lords than to furnish to the far-distant, and to pay what is owed by your fruits rather than to endure the fastidiousness of buyers!

[3] Prodimus etiam amore iustitiae quod nobis suggerere poteratis, quia in pretio laedere non debemus, unde naulorum praebitionibus non gravamur. est enim proxima nobis regio supra sinum maris Ionii constituta, olivis referta, segetibus ornata, vite copiosa, ubi quasi tribus uberibus egregia ubertate largatis omnis fructus optabili fecunditate profluxit. quae non immerito dicitur Ravennae Campania, urbis regiae cella penaria, voluptuosa nimis et deliciosa digressio.

[3] We also bring forward, out of love of justice, that which you might have suggested to us, since we ought not to injure in the price, wherefore we are not burdened with the provisions of freight-charges. For there is a region proximate to us, situated above the gulf of the Ionian sea, stuffed with olives, adorned with cornfields, copious in vine, where, as if with three udders lavishly poured forth with exceptional abundance, every fruit has flowed with desirable fecundity. Which not undeservedly is called the Campania of Ravenna, the royal city’s pantry-cell, a too-pleasurable and delicious excursion.

fruitur in septentrione progressa caeli admiranda temperie.

having advanced into the north, it enjoys the admirable temperateness of the heaven.

[4] Habet et quasdam, non absurde dixerim, Baias suas, ubi undosum mare terrenas concavitates ingrediens in faciem decoram stagni aequalitate deponitur. haec loca et garismatia plura nutriunt et piscium ubertate gloriantur. Avernus ibi non unus est.

[4] It has also certain, not absurdly, I would say, its own Baiae, where the wavy sea, entering terrestrial concavities, is set down by evenness into the comely face of a pool. These places both nourish many garum-works and boast of an abundance of fish. Avernus there is not single.

numerosae conspiciuntur piscinae Neptuniae, quibus etiam cessante industria passim ostrea nascuntur iniussa. sic nec studium in nutriendis nec dubietas in capiendis probatur esse deliciis.

Numerous Neptunian fishponds are beheld, in which, even with industry ceasing, oysters everywhere are born unbidden. Thus neither zeal in nurturing nor doubt in taking is found in the case of these delicacies.

[5] Praetoria longe lateque lucentia in margaritarum speciem putes esse disposita, ut hinc appareat, qualia fuerint illius provinciae maiorum iudicia, quam tantis fabricis constat ornatam. additur etiam illi litori ordo pulcherrimus insularum, qui amabili utilitate dispositus et a periculis vindicat naves, et ditat magna ubertate cultores. reficit plane comitatenses excubias, Italiae ornat imperium, primates deliciis, mediocres victualium pascit expensis et quod illic nascitur, paene totum in urbe regia possidetur.

[5] The praetoria, shining far and wide, you would think to be arranged in the likeness of pearls, so that from this it may appear what the judgments of the elders of that province were, which is agreed to be adorned with such great structures. To that shore, too, there is added a most beautiful order of islands, which, arranged with amiable utility, both protects ships from perils and enriches the cultivators with great uberty. It plainly refreshes the comitatenses on outpost watches, adorns the imperium of Italy, provides the primates with delights, feeds the middling with rations of victuals, and what is produced there is possessed almost wholly in the royal city.

praestet nunc copias suas sponte magis devota provincia: amplius pareat, dum speratur, quando gratissime faciebat, dum minime quaereretur.

let the province, more devoted, now furnish its forces of its own accord: let it obey the more, while it is hoped for, since it used to act most graciously when it was least being asked.

[6] Sed ne aliqua iussionibus nostris dubietas nasceretur, Laurentium virum experientissimum et magnis nobis in re publica laboribus comprobatum cum praesenti auctoritate direximus, ut secundum breves subter annexos incunctanter expediat quod sibi pro expensis publicis iniunctum esse cognoscit. nunc procurate quae iussa sunt. vos enim facitis devotum militem, cum libenter suscipitis iussionem.

[6] But lest any doubt should arise concerning our injunctions, we have dispatched Lawrence, a most experienced man and approved to us by great labors in the commonwealth, with present authority, that, according to the briefs annexed below, he may without delay expedite what he recognizes has been enjoined upon him for public expenses. Now see to what has been ordered. For you make a devoted soldier, when you willingly undertake the injunction.

[7] Pretia vero vobis moderata sequenti occasione declaramus, cum nobis praesentium gerulus nativitatis modum missa relatione suggesserit. taxari enim aliquid non potest iuste, nisi copia rei evidenter potuerit indagari. inaequalis est quippe arbiter, qui sententiam mittit in cassum, et male sibi probatur conscius, qui est indeliberata dicturus.

[7] As to the prices, truly, moderated, we declare them to you on the next occasion, when the bearer of these presents shall have suggested to us by a dispatched report the measure of the nativitas (produce). For a thing cannot be taxed/appraised justly unless the supply of the matter can be clearly investigated. For he is an unequal (unfair) arbiter who sends a sentence in vain, and he is ill-approved by his own conscience who is about to speak things indeliberate.

XXIII. LAURENTIO VIRO EXPERIENTISSIMO SENATOR PPO.

23. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT, TO LAURENTIUS, A MOST EXPERIENCED MAN.

[1] Deliberatio iudicis probatos viros debet publicis actionibus adhibere, ut facile possit impleri quod sub sterilitate temporis videtur inquiri. in abundantia rerum quaelibet se potest expedire persona: electis opus est militibus, cum fuerit necessitatis impulsus. atque ideo experientiam tuam frequentibus nobisque tali devotione gratissimam ad Histriam provinciam iubemus excurrere, ut in tot solidos vini, olei vel tritici species de tributario solido debeas procurare, in aliis vero tot solidis, quos a nostro arcario percepisti, tam a negotiatoribus quam a possessoribus emere maturabis, sicut te a numerariis instruxit porrecta notitia.

[1] The deliberation of a judge ought to employ approved men for public actions, so that what seems to be sought under the sterility of the time may be easily brought to fulfillment. in an abundance of things any person can disentangle herself; there is need of chosen soldiers when the impulse of necessity has come. and therefore we order your experience—most pleasing to many and to us by such devotion—to hasten to the province of Histria, so that, to the amount of so many solidi, you ought to procure kinds of wine, oil, or wheat on the basis of the tributary solidus; but with another like number of solidi, which you have received from our treasurer, you will hasten to buy both from merchants and from landholders, as the notice presented by the accountants has instructed you.

[2] Quapropter erige nunc animos ad parendum, qui tantis excubiis indiscreta sorte placuisti. ammoneat te prioris conversationis exemplum, quia nimis grave est emeritum delinquere, quem tironem nullatenus constat errasse. qualis autem supra dictarum specierum ubertas se optata laxaverit, veraci nobis, ut de te credimus, relatione significa, ut nos habito modo constituere debeamus quod nec provinciales laedat nec publicas gravare possit expensas.

[2] Wherefore, now raise your spirits to obey, you who by such great vigils have won approval without any privileged lot. Let the example of your prior conversation (conduct) admonish you, for it is too grievous for a veteran to transgress, when as a recruit he is agreed by no means to have erred. And what abundance of the above-said kinds shall have unfolded itself as desired, make known to us by a truthful report—as we believe of you—so that, the mode having been considered, we may constitute what may neither injure the provincials nor be able to burden the public expenses.

XXIIII. TRIBUNIS MARITIMORUM SENATOR PPO.

24. TO THE TRIBUNES OF THE MARITIME TROOPS, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Data pridem iussione censuimus ut Histria vini, olei vel tritici species, quarum praesenti anno copia indulta perfruitur, ad Ravennatem feliciter dirigeret mansionem. sed vos, qui numerosa navigia in eius confinio possidetis, pari devotionis gratia providete, ut quod illa parata est tradere, vos studeatis sub celeritate portare. similis erit quippe utrisque gratia perfectionis, quando unum ex his dissociatum impleri non permittit effectum.

[1] By an injunction given formerly we have decreed that Histria should direct kinds (species) of wine, oil, or wheat—of which, in the present year, it enjoys an abundance granted—to the Ravenna residence auspiciously. But you, who possess numerous vessels in its neighborhood, provide with an equal grace of devotion, that what she is prepared to deliver, you strive to carry with celerity. For the favor of perfection will be similar to both, since, if sundered in either of these, the effect does not permit fulfillment.

estote ergo promptissimi ad vicina, qui saepe spatia transmittitis infinita.

be therefore most prompt to what is near at hand, you who often traverse infinite spaces.

[2] Per hospitia quodammodo vestra discurritis, qui per patriam navigatis. accedit etiam commodis vestris, quod vobis aliud iter aperitur perpetua securitate tranquillum. nam cum ventis saevientibus mare fuerit clausum, via vobis panditur per amoenissima fluviorum.

[2] You in a certain manner run through your own hostelries, you who navigate through the fatherland. it also accrues to your conveniences that another route is opened to you, tranquil with perpetual security. for when the sea has been closed with the winds raging, a way is laid open for you through the most delightful reaches of the rivers.

carinae vestrae flatus asperos non pavescunt: terram cum summa felicitate contingunt et perire nesciunt, quae frequenter inpingunt. putantur eminus quasi per prata ferri, cum eorum contingit alveum non videri. tractae funibus ambulant, quae stare rudentibus consuerunt, et condicione mutata pedibus iuvant homines naves suas: vectrices sine labore trahunt, et pro pavore velorum utuntur passu prosperiore nautarum.

your keels do not dread harsh blasts: they touch land with the highest felicity and do not know how to perish, though they frequently bump. they are thought from afar to be borne as if across meadows, when it happens that their hull is not seen. drawn by ropes they walk, they which were accustomed to stand by their cables; and with the condition changed men help their ships with their feet: the carrier-ships are drawn without toil, and instead of the fear of sails they make use of the more prosperous pace of the sailors.

[3] Iuvat referre quemadmodum habitationes vestras sitas esse perspeximus. Venetiae praedicabiles quondam plenae nobilibus ab austro Ravennam Padumque contingunt, ab oriente iucunditate Ionii litoris perfruuntur: ubi alternus aestus egrediens modo claudit, modo aperit faciem reciproca inundatione camporum. hic vobis aquatilium avium more domus est.

[3] It is pleasant to recount how we have perceived your habitations to be situated. The praiseworthy Venetiae, once full of nobles, from the south touch Ravenna and the Po, from the east they enjoy the pleasantness of the Ionian shore: where the alternating tide, going out, now closes, now opens the face by the reciprocal inundation of the fields. Here for you is a home after the manner of aquatic birds.

nam qui nunc terrestris, modo cernitur insularis, ut illic magis aestimes esse Cycladas, ubi subito locorum facies respicis immutatas.

for what is now terrestrial is presently seen as insular, so that there you would the more suppose the Cyclades to be, where you behold the aspects of the places suddenly changed.

[4] Earum quippe similitudine per aequora longe patentia domicilia videntur sparsa, quae natura protulit, sed hominum cura fundavit. viminibus enim flexibilibus illigatis terrena illic soliditas aggregatur et marino fluctui tam fragilis munitio non dubitatur opponi, scilicet quando vadosum litus moles eicere nescit undarum et sine viribus fertur quod altitudinis auxilio non iuvatur.

[4] Indeed, by their similitude, over the wide‑stretching level waters the domiciles seem scattered, which nature brought forth, but the care of men founded. for with flexible withes bound together, there terrestrial solidity is aggregated, and to the marine surge so fragile a munition is not hesitated to be opposed, namely, since on a shallow shore the mass of the waves cannot be cast up, and what is not aided by the help of altitude is borne without force.

[5] Habitatoribus igitur una copia est, ut solis piscibus expleantur. paupertas ibi cum divitibus sub aequalitate convivit. unus cibus omnes reficit, habitatio similis universa concludit, nesciunt de penatibus invidere et sub hac mensura degentes evadunt vitium, cui mundum esse constat obnoxium.

[5] Therefore for the inhabitants there is one supply, that they be satisfied by fish alone. Poverty there lives together with the rich under equality. One food refreshes all, a like habitation encloses all; they do not know how to envy concerning their household gods (Penates), and, living under this measure, they escape the vice to which the world is known to be obnoxious.

[6] In salinis autem exercendis tota contentio est: pro aratris, pro falcibus cylindros volvitis: inde vobis fructus omnis enascitur, quando in ipsis et quae non facitis possidetis. moneta illic quodammodo percutitur victualis. arti vestrae omnis fluctus addictus est.

[6] But in working the salt-works all the exertion is engaged: in place of ploughs, in place of sickles, you roll cylinders: from there every fruit (profit) is born for you, since in them you possess even the things which you do not make. There, in a certain manner, a victual coinage is struck. Every wave is addicted (bound over) to your art.

potest aurum aliquis minus quaerere, nemo est qui salem non desideret invenire, merito, quando isti debet omnis cibus quod potest esse gratissimus.

Someone may seek gold less; there is no one who does not desire to find salt—rightly, since to that every food owes what allows it to be most pleasing.

[7] Proinde naves, quas more animalium vestris parietibus illigatis, diligenti cura reficite, ut, cum vos vir experientissimus Laurentius, qui ad procurandas species directus est, commonere temptaverit, festinetis excurrere, quatenus expensas necessarias nulla difficultate tardetis, qui pro qualitate aeris compendium vobis eligere potestis itineris.

[7] Accordingly, refit with diligent care the ships which you, in the manner of animals, tether to your walls, so that, when Laurentius, a most experienced man, who has been directed to procure the commodities, shall have attempted to admonish you, you may hasten to put out, to the end that you delay the necessary expenses by no difficulty, you who, according to the quality of the air, can choose for yourselves a short-cut (compendium) of the journey.

XXV. AMBROSIO V. I. AGENTI VICES SENATOR PPO.

25. TO AMBROSIUS, A MOST ILLUSTRIOUS MAN, ACTING IN THE STEAD OF THE SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Plerumque solliciti fiunt, qui mutatos rerum ordines intuentur, quia saepe portendunt aliqua, quae consuetudini probantur adversa. nihil enim sine causa geritur nec mundus fortuitis casibus implicatur, sed quicquid venire videmus ad terminum, divinum constat esse consilium. suspenduntur homines, cum sua reges constituta mutaverint, si aliter induti procedant quam eorum usus inoleverat.

[1] For the most part people become solicitous when they behold altered orders of things, because they often portend certain matters which are judged adverse to custom. For nothing is done without cause, nor is the world entangled in fortuitous chances, but whatever we see come to a terminus is agreed to be a divine counsel. Men are left in suspense when kings have changed their own constitutions, if they go forth clad otherwise than the usage concerning them had become inveterate.

quis autem de talibus non magna curiositate turbetur, si versa vice consuetudinum a sideribus aliquid venire videatur obscurum? nam sicut certa securitas est suis vicibus tempora notare currentia, sic magna curiositate complemur, cum mutari talia sentiuntur.

who, moreover, would not be troubled with great curiosity about such things, if, with the turn of customs reversed, something should seem to come obscure from the stars? for just as there is a certain security in noting the times running in their own vicissitudes, so we are filled with great curiosity when such things are perceived to be changed.

[2] Quale est, rogo, stellarum primarium conspicere et eius solita lumina non videre? lunam noctis decus intueri orbe suo plenam et naturali splendore vacuatam? cernimus adhuc cuncti quasi venetum solem: miramur media die umbras corpora non habere et vigorem illum fortissimi caloris usque ad extremi teporis inertiam pervenisse, quod non eclipsis momentaneo defectu, sed totius paene anni agi nihilominus constat excursu.

[2] What is it like, I ask, to behold the chief of the stars and not to see its wonted lights? to gaze upon the moon, the ornament of night, full in its orb and emptied of its natural splendor? we all still discern, as it were, a sea-blue sun: we marvel that at midday bodies have no shadows, and that that vigor of the most powerful heat has come even to the inertia of utmost tepidity, which is known to be effected not by an eclipse’s momentary defect, but nonetheless by the course of almost the whole year.

[3] Qualis ergo timor est diutius sustinere quod vel in summa solet populos celeritate terrere? habuimus itaque sine procellis hiemem, sine temperie vernum, sine ardoribus aestatem. unde iam speretur posse venire temperiem, quando menses qui fructus decoquere poterant boreis flatibus vehementer algebant?

[3] What sort of fear, then, is it to endure for a longer time that which even at its height is wont to terrify peoples by its swiftness? thus we had a winter without tempests, a springtime without temperateness, a summer without ardors of heat. whence now can it be hoped that temperateness might come, when the months which could cook down the fruits were vehemently benumbed by the blasts of Boreas?

quid enim fertilitatem producat, si terra aestivis mensibus non calescat? quid germen aperiat, si matrix pluviam non resumat? duo haec elementis omnibus probamus adversa rigorem perpetuum et contrariam siccitatem.

For what will produce fertility, if the earth does not grow warm in the summer months? What will open the germ, if the matrix (womb) does not take back the rain? These two things we prove to be adverse to all the elements: perpetual rigor (cold) and contrary dryness.

mutaverunt se tempora non mutando et quod mixtis imbribus solebat effici, ex ariditate sola non potest optineri.

the seasons have changed themselves by not changing, and what used to be effected by mixed showers cannot be obtained from aridity alone.

[4] Atque ideo de veteribus frugibus prudentia tua futuram vincat inopiam, quia tanta fuit anni praeteriti felix ubertas, ut et venturis mensibus provisa sufficiant. reponatur omne quod ad victum quaeritur. facile privatus necessaria reperit, cum se publicus apparatus expleverit.

[4] And therefore, by means of the old fruits of the earth, let your prudence conquer the want that is to come, since so great was the happy abundance of the past year that the provisions laid in will suffice even for the coming months. Let everything that is sought for sustenance be put in store. A private person easily finds the necessaries, when the public apparatus has been satisfied.

[5] Sed ne te praesens causa magna haesitatione discruciet, ad considerationem revertere naturalium rerum et fit ratione certum, quod stupenti vulgo videtur ambiguum. sic enim constat divina ordinatione dispositum, sic astra praesentis anni in domiciliis suis mutuis amministrationibus convenerunt, ut supra solitum hiems sicca redderetur et frigida. hinc aer nivibus nimio rigore densatus ardore solis in nulla raritate perductus est, sed in assumpta crassitate perdurans et caloribus eius obstitit et aspectum humanae fragilitatis elusit.

[5] But lest the present case torture you with great hesitation, return to the consideration of natural things, and by reason it becomes certain what to the astonished crowd seems ambiguous. For thus it stands, arranged by divine ordination; thus the stars of the present year, in their domiciles, have come together in mutual administrations, so that beyond the accustomed measure winter was rendered dry and cold. Hence the air, compacted by snows with excessive rigor, was by the sun’s ardor brought into no rarity, but, enduring in the assumed thickness, both resisted its heats and eluded the sight of human fragility.

media enim quae sunt, nostris dominantur obtutibus et per ipsa tantum videre possumus, quantum nobis sui corporis tenuitate concedunt.

for the media that are dominate our sight, and through them we can see only so much as they concede to us by the tenuity of their own body.

[6] Hoc enim inane magnum, quod inter caelum terramque elementi more liquidissimi pervagatur, dum contigerit esse purum et solis claritate respersum, nostros veraciter pandit aspectus: si vero aliqua fuerit permixtione congregatum, tunc tenso quasi quodam corio nec colores proprios nec calores pervenire facit astrorum. quod etiam aliis saeculis aere nubilo pro tempore frequenter efficitur. hinc est quod diutius radii siderum insolito colore fuscati sunt, quod novum frigus messor expavit, quod accessu temporis poma duruerunt, quod uvarum senectus acerba est.

[6] For this great void, which between heaven and earth roams in the manner of the most liquid element, when it happens to be pure and sprinkled with the sun’s clarity, truly lays open our sight: but if it has been gathered by some permixture, then, stretched like a certain hide, it allows neither the proper colors nor the heats of the stars to pass through. This also in other ages is frequently brought about for a time by a cloudy air. Hence it is that for a longer time the rays of the stars have been darkened with an unusual color, that the reaper has dreaded a novel cold, that with the season’s access the fruits have hardened, that the ripening (old age) of the grapes is sour.

[7] Sed si hoc divinae providentiae tradatur, satagere non debemus, quando ipsius imperio prodigia quaerere prohibemur. illud tamen sine dubio terrenis fructibus adversarium esse cognoscimus, ubi alimonia consueta nutriri lege propria non videmus. proinde agat sollicitudo vestra, ne nos unius anni sterilitas turbare videatur, dum sic ab illo primo amministratore dignitatis nostrae provisum est, ut praecedens copia sequentem valuisset mitigare penuriam.

[7] But if this be handed over to divine providence, we ought not to bustle, since by its own command we are forbidden to seek prodigies. Yet we recognize without doubt that it is adversary to earthly fruits, when we do not see the accustomed nourishment being sustained by its proper law. Therefore let your solicitude act, lest the sterility of a single year seem to disturb us, since thus it has been provided by that first administrator of our dignity, that the preceding abundance might have availed to mitigate the ensuing penury.

XXVI. PAULO VIRO STRENUO SENATOR PPO.

26.
TO PAULUS, A STRENUOUS MAN, SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Frequenter utilitas publica compendiosa pietate servatur, quando illud magis adquirit, quod bonorum intercessione remiserit. veniens itaque vir venerabilis Augustinus vita clarus et nomine Venetum nobis necessitates flebili allegatione declaravit, non vini, non tritici, non panici species apud ipsos fuisse procreatas, asserens ad tantam penuriam provincialium pervenisse fortunas, ut vitae pericula sustinere non possint, nisi eis pietas regalis solita humanitate prospexerit. quod nobis crudele visum est aliquid a petentibus postulare et illud sperare, quod provincia cognoscitur indigere.

[1] Frequently the public utility is preserved by compendious piety, when it acquires more by remitting through the intercession of the good. There came, therefore, the venerable man Augustine, famed in life, and in the name of the Venetians he declared their necessities to us with a tearful allegation, asserting that no kinds of wine, of wheat, nor of panic-grain (millet) had been produced among them, affirming that the fortunes of the provincials had come to such penury that they cannot endure the perils of life, unless royal piety should provide for them with its wonted humanity. It seemed cruel to us to demand anything from petitioners and to expect that which the province is known to need.

a talibus enim solas lacrimas exigit qui quod non invenitur imponit.

for he who imposes what cannot be found exacts only tears from such people.

[2] Et ideo tanti viri allegatione permoti vinum et triticum, quod vos in apparatum exercitus ex Concordiense, Aquileiense et Foroiuliense civitatibus colligere feceramus, praesenti auctoritate remittimus, carnes tantum, sicut brevis vobis datus continet, exinde providentes. hinc enim, cum necesse fuerit, sufficientem tritici speciem destinamus.

[2] And therefore, moved by the allegation of so great a man, the wine and the wheat which we had caused you to collect for the apparatus (provisioning) of the army from the cities of Concordia, Aquileia, and Forum Iulii, by the present authority we remit, providing from there only meats, as the brief given to you contains. For from here, when it shall be necessary, we dispatch a sufficient supply of wheat.

[3] Et quoniam in Histria vinum abunde natum esse comperimus, exinde, quantum de supra dictis civitatibus speratum est, postulate, sicut in foro rerum venalium reperitur, quatenus nec ipsi laedi possint, cum eis pretia iusta servantur. quapropter praesentem indulgentiam nulla credatis venalitate taxandam, ut, dum fuerit remedium gratuitum, possit existere nihilominus gloriosum. noveritis enim gravi vos subici posse vindictae, si quod interdictum est dari, a vobis videatur acceptum.

[3] And since we have discovered that in Histria wine is produced in abundance, from there request, in the amount that was hoped from the aforesaid cities, as it is found in the forum of things for sale, so that they themselves may not be harmed, since just prices are observed for them. Wherefore do not believe the present indulgence to be assessed by any sale-valuation, so that, while the remedy is gratuitous, it may nonetheless be glorious. For know that you can be subjected to grave vengeance, if that which is interdicted to be given should seem to have been received by you.

XXVII. DATIO EPISCOPO MEDIOLANENSI SENATOR PPO.

27. A GRANT TO THE BISHOP OF MILAN. SENATOR, PRAETORIAN PREFECT.

[1] Minus prodest bonum iubere, nisi hoc per viros sanctissimos velimus efficere. auget enim beneficium voluntas recta iustorum et quicquid sine fraude geritur, hoc vere donantis meritis applicatur. decet enim, ut munificentiam principalem sacerdotalis puritas exequatur.

[1] It profits less to command a good thing, unless we are willing to effect it through most holy men. For the right will of the just augments the benefit, and whatever is conducted without fraud is truly applied to the merits of the donor. For it is fitting that sacerdotal purity execute princely munificence.

nam cui est studium bonum de proprio facere, laudabiliter potest aliena vota complere.

for whoever has zeal to do the good from his own resources can laudably complete the vows of others.

[2] Et ideo sanctitatem vestram petimus, cuius propositi est divinis inservire mandatis, ut de horreis Ticinensibus et Dertonensibus panici speciem, sicut a principe iussum est, tertiam portionem esurienti populo ad viginti quinque modios per solidum distrahi sub vestra ordinatione faciatis, ne cuiusquam venalitate ad illos perveniat, qui se de proprio videntur posse transigere. accipiat minus habens indulgentiam principalem. egentibus iussum est, non divitibus, subveniri.

[2] And therefore we ask your sanctity, whose purpose is to serve the divine mandates, that from the granaries of Ticinum and Dertona the species of panic (millet), as it has been ordered by the prince, a third portion, for the starving people, be sold at 25 modii per solidus, and that you have this done under your ordination, lest through anyone’s venality it come to those who seem able to settle matters from their own resources. Let the one who has less receive the princely indulgence. It has been ordered that help be given to the needy, not to the rich.

fundit potius, qui mittit in plenum, nam illud potius reconditur, quod vasis vacuis congregatur.

He rather pours out, who sends into what is full; for that is rather stored away which is gathered into empty vessels.

[3] Quapropter sanctitas vestra miserationis officia non putet iniuriam: quia totum vobis dignum est, ubi pietas invenitur, siquidem aliena desideria fideliter gerere hoc est bona propria perfecisse. ad quam rem deo iuvante procurandam illum atque illum curavimus destinare, qui sanctitatis vestrae ordinationibus obsecuti nihil ex se faciant, sed tantummodo vobis oboedire contendant. solidi vero, quanti ex supra dicta quantitate panici potuerint congregari, vestra nobis relatione declarate, ut apud arcarium reconditi ad supra memoratam speciem reparandam futuris reserventur deo auxiliante temporibus: more vestis redivivae, cuius adunatio per fila resolvitur, ut in novam faciem splendido potius decore texatur.

[3] Wherefore let your sanctity not reckon the offices of compassion an injury: for everything is worthy for you where piety is found, since indeed to carry others’ desires faithfully—this is to have perfected one’s own goods. For the procuring of this matter, with God helping, we have taken care to assign this man and that, who, complying with the ordinances of your sanctity, may do nothing from themselves, but strive only to obey you. As for the solidi, declare to us by your report how many from the above-said quantity of panicum can have been gathered, so that, stored with the treasurer, they may be reserved, God aiding, for future times to restore the above-mentioned supply: in the manner of a revived garment, whose joining is unstitched thread by thread, that it may be woven into a new appearance with more splendid adornment.

XXVIII. EDICTUM.

28. EDICT.

[1] Quis nesciat providentiam divinam usibus nostris aliqua velle subducere, ut humanum possit animum comprobare? nam si nullum penitus indigere contingeret, locum proinde largitas non haberet. data est provinciis in regis nostri laudem penuria: steriles facti sunt agri, ut ubertas domini possit agnosci.

[1] Who does not know that divine providence wishes to withdraw certain things from our uses, so that it may be able to prove the human mind? For if it should happen that one were utterly in need of nothing, largess would therefore have no place. Penury has been given to the provinces for the praise of our king: the fields have been made sterile, so that the lord’s abundance may be acknowledged.

minus esset acceptissimum donum, nisi praecessisset incommodum. gaudete, provinciae, malisque vestris potius gratiam referte, quando talem probatis animum principis, ut nullis cedat adversis. en pietas mirabilis, quae ubique nostris repugnat incommodis.

The gift would be less most acceptable, unless an inconvenience had gone before. Rejoice, provinces, and rather return thanks for your ills, since you prove such a spirit of the prince, that he yields to no adversities. Behold marvelous piety, which everywhere opposes our inconveniences.

[2] Nam cum se feritas gentilis prioris temporis animasset, Aemilia et Liguria vestra, sicut vos retinere necesse est, Burgundionum incursione quateretur gereretque bellum de vicinitate furtivum, subito praesentis imperii tamquam solis ortus fama radiavit. expugnatum se hostis sua praesumptione congemuit, quando illum cognovit nominatae gentis esse rectorem, quem sub militis nomine probaverat singularem. quotiens se optavit de suis finibus non exire Burgundio, ne principe nostro pugnaret adverso, cuius licet praesentiam relevatus evaserit, felicitatem tamen praecipitatus incurrit?

[2] For when the gentile ferocity of a former time had roused itself, your Aemilia and Liguria, as you must needs remember, were being shaken by the incursion of the Burgundians and were waging from the vicinity a furtive war, suddenly the fame of the present empire shone forth like the rising of the sun. The enemy groaned that he had been taken by storm through his own presumption, when he recognized that the man was the ruler of the named nation, whom under the name of a soldier he had proved to be singular. How often did the Burgundian wish not to have gone out from his own borders, lest he fight as an adversary against our prince—whose presence, although he escaped it being relieved of it, yet, rushing headlong, he incurred our prince’s felicity?

[3] Nam mox ut Gothi ad belli studium genuina se fortitudine contulerunt, ita prospera concertatione caesa est rebellium manus, quasi inde nudos, hinc stare contigisset armatos: divini aequitate iudicii, ut in ipsis campis praedo corrueret, quos vastare praesumpsit. exulta, adversariorum cadaveribus ornata provincia: acervum ride funerum, quem inimicorum exitio constat effectum. nunc melius culta Liguria, cui negato fructu segetis messis provenit hostilis: nam etsi tributa tua minus potuerunt accipi, triumphos in te natos feliciter optulisti.

[3] For soon as the Goths applied themselves to the study of war with native fortitude, so by a prosperous contest the hand of the rebels was cut down, as if on that side the naked, on this side the armed had happened to stand: by the equity of divine judgment, that on the very fields the marauder should collapse which he presumed to devastate. Exult, province adorned with the corpses of adversaries: laugh at the heap of funerals, which is agreed to have been brought about by the destruction of enemies. Now Liguria is better cultivated, to which, the fruit of the grain denied, there has come a hostile harvest: for although your tributes could be received less, you have happily offered triumphs born in you.

[4] His additur Alamannorum nuper fugata subreptio, quae in primis conatibus suis sic probatur oppressa, ut simul adventum suum iunxisset et exitum quasi salutaris ferri execatione purgata, quatenus et male praesumentium vindicaretur excessus et subiectorum non omnino grassaretur interitus. possem quidem vobis dinumerare, quanta in aliis locis hostium turba ceciderit: sed more humani animi ad vestra felicia festinantes illud nos tantum dicere cupitis, quod ad vos specialiter pertinere sentitis.

[4] To these is added the recently routed surreptitious incursion of the Alamanni, which in its first attempts is shown to have been so crushed that it joined its arrival and its departure at the same time, as though cleansed by the excision of health-giving iron, to the end that both the excess of those ill-presuming might be vindicated, and the destruction of the subjects might not rage altogether. I could indeed enumerate for you how great a multitude of enemies has fallen in other places; but, after the manner of the human mind hastening to your own felicities, you want us to say only that which you feel pertains especially to you.

[5] Redeamus ergo ad suave principium, quando qui vos defendit a belli clade, nec inopiae patitur pericula sustinere: nam qui perculit hostem provinciae, et famem iussit exire. o certamen toto orbe praedicandum! contra indigentiam saevam gloriosi principis pugnat humanitas, cuius vere castra sunt horrea referta, quae si claudere voluisset, tunc importabilis intrasset inimica, sed quia magis aperuit, saevientem adversariam mox fugavit.

[5] Let us therefore return to the pleasant beginning, when he who defends you from the disaster of war does not allow you to endure the perils of indigence: for he who struck down the enemy of the province also commanded famine to depart. O contest to be proclaimed throughout the whole world! Against savage want the humanity of the glorious prince fights, whose camps are truly granaries replete, which, if he had wished to close them, then the unbearable foe would have entered; but because he opened them the more, he straightway put the raging adversary to flight.

[6] Nescio quae principis nostri bella mundus potius ammiretur: ego tamen dicam quod sentio. in usum est viris fortibus feliciter egisse pugnas, sed supra humanam virtutem esse constat vicisse penuriam. verum cum his tantis ac talibus bonis nulla potuissent supplicum vota sufficere, adhuc et dimidiam relaxare pertulit fiscalis calculi functionem, ne tristes in aliqua parte faceret, quibus tot felicia praestitisset.

[6] I do not know which wars of our prince the world should rather admire: I, however, will say what I feel. It is in usage for brave men to have conducted battles successfully, but it is agreed to be above human virtue to have conquered penury. Yet, although to such great and suchlike goods no prayers of suppliants could have sufficed, he even went so far as to relax half of the exaction of the fiscal reckoning, lest he make sad in any part those to whom he had bestowed so many felicities.

[7] Ioseph legimus contra famem funestam emendi quidem tritici dedisse licentiam, sed tale posuisse pretium, ut suae subventionis avidus se potius venderet alimonia mercaturus. quale fuit, rogo, tunc miseris vivere, quibus acerba subventio libertatem suam videbatur adimere: ubi non minus ingemuit liberatus quam potuit flere captivus! credo virum sanctum hac necessitate constrictum, ut et avaro principi satisfaceret et periclitanti populo subveniret.

[7] We read that Joseph, against the funest famine, indeed granted license to buy wheat, but set such a price that, eager for his own subvention, a man would rather sell himself, about to purchase aliments. What was it like, I ask, then, for the wretched to live, for whom the bitter subvention seemed to take away their liberty: where the one delivered groaned no less than the captive could weep! I believe the holy man was constrained by this necessity, so that he might both satisfy the avaricious prince and bring subvention to the imperiled people.

pace tanti patris dixerim: quanto praestantius est libertate salva frumenta vendere et propter indigentiam tributa laxare!

with the peace of so great a father, I would say: how much more excellent it is, with liberty safe, to sell grain and, on account of indigence, to relax the tributes!

[8] Gratis constat ista venalitas, quando et unde ematis cessit et pretium quod vos oblectet imposuit. vendit itaque largitas publica vicenos quinos modios, dum possessor invenire non possit ad denos. ordinem rerum saeculi mutavit humanitas: nos iubemur vile distrahere, cum esuriens paratus sit carius comparare.

[8] This sale stands gratis, since both the time and the source whence you may buy have yielded, and it has set a price to delight you. Therefore public largess sells twenty-five modii, while the possessor cannot find buyers at ten. Humanity has changed the order of the affairs of the age: we are bidden to sell off cheaply, while the hungry man is ready to purchase more dearly.

o novum praedicationis eventum! affectu damni negotiatio provenit et votum est vendenti magis perdere, ut quaestum comparans debeat invenire. talia profecto regem decet tractare commercia: talem convenit nundinationem exercere pietatem, ut tunc minus adquiescat accipere, quando emptor plurima praecipitatur offerre.

O novel outcome of preaching! With an affection for loss, negotiation proves successful, and it is the seller’s vow to lose more, so that, while procuring gain, he ought to find it. Such commerce, assuredly, befits a king to handle: it is fitting for piety to exercise such market-trading, so that he is then less willing to receive when the buyer is being precipitated to offer very much.

[9] Libet referre, qualis in vobis sit dominantis affectus, quia et primo cessit quantum sufficere credidit et nunc iterum postulata geminavit. verecundum vobis erat aliquid sperare post dona, cum se adhuc ad beneficia principis reservaret humanitas: non audita despexit, quando ipse visa testatus est. felix illa calamitas, quae prius miserantem reperit testem, ut post districtum iudicem non haberet.

[9] It pleases me to relate what the ruler’s affection toward you is, because both at first he yielded as much as he believed would suffice, and now again he has doubled the things requested. It was modest in you to hope for anything after gifts, since humanity still kept itself reserved for the prince’s benefactions: he did not despise reports, since he himself attested things seen. Happy that calamity, which earlier found a compassionate witness, so that afterward it would not have a strict judge.

gaude igitur, assuete iam bono Ligur: in usu tuo secunda venerunt: nam collatos tibi Aegyptios magna prosperitate vicisti: evadis tempora necessitatis et libertatis praemia non amittis: immo illo tempore securus es ab hoste redditus, quando et de famis periculo cognosceris esse liberatus.

rejoice, therefore, Ligurian, now accustomed to good: in your experience favorable things have come: for, the Egyptians, when compared to you, you have conquered with great prosperity: you escape the times of necessity and you do not lose the rewards of liberty: nay, at that time you are rendered secure from the enemy, since you are also recognized to have been freed from the danger of famine.

[10] Adhuc te praedictum ornat exemplum: adhuc est in qua parte superetur. legitur enim Ioseph fratribus suis tantum saccis occulta pretia reddidisse. quid mirum, si natura compellente proximis suis humanior visus est extitisse?

[10] Still the aforesaid example adorns you; still there is a respect in which he is surpassed. For it is read that Joseph only returned to his brothers the prices hidden in their sacks. What wonder, if, with nature compelling, he seemed to have shown himself more humane toward his own kinsmen?

hic autem cunctis large vendidit, functionem debitam reliquit et plus iste generaliter contulit tributariis quam ille solis visus est praestitisse germanis. breviter dicantur effusa: hinc bona sua discat universitas, quando non regibus comparantur nostra saecula, sed prophetis. sed ne diutius beneficiorum regalium cupidos occupemus, praecepta nostra ad eos quorum interest manasse cognoscite, ut secundum tenorem iussionis ad vos perveniat munificentia principalis.

but here he sold to all lavishly, remitted the due exaction, and this man bestowed more in general upon the tributaries than that one seemed to have furnished to his brothers alone. let the bounties be stated briefly: from this let the whole community learn its own goods, since our ages are compared not with kings but with prophets. but lest we occupy longer those eager for regal benefactions, know that our precepts have flowed to those whom it concerns, so that, according to the tenor of the injunction, the principal munificence may come to you.