Cassiodorus: VARIARUM LIBRI XII

[1] Quamvis omnium dignitatum officia a manu secludantur armata et civilibus vestibus videantur induti qui districtionem publicam docentur operari, tua tantum dignitas a terroribus ornatur, quae gladio bellico rebus etiam pacatis accingitur. vide quo iudicio frueris evectus, quando aliis vigorem fascium videamus esse creditum, tibi autem ab ipsis legibus ferrum constet esse porrectum. rem cruentam dederunt animo pacato, ut et noxii nimium metuerent et laesi de optata ultione gauderent.

[1] Although the offices of all dignities are shut off from an armed hand and those who are taught to operate public coercion seem to be clad in civil garments, only your dignity is adorned with terrors, which is girded with the warlike sword even for matters at peace. See by what judgment you enjoy being exalted, since we see the vigor of the fasces entrusted to others, but to you by the laws themselves the iron has been extended. They have given a bloody thing to a calm mind, so that both the guilty might fear excessively and the injured might rejoice in the desired vengeance.

alioquin culparentur priores, si temperata omnia non fecissent. sed cum te intellegas ad moderamen electum, humanum facile non concupiscas exitium.

otherwise the predecessors would be blamed, if they had not carried out everything in a tempered manner. but since you understand yourself to have been chosen to the helm, you will not readily covet the destruction of a human being.

[2] Reus qui dicitur, et probetur. scito puniendi remedium datum tibi pro salute multorum. arma ista iuris sunt, non furoris.

[2] Let the one who is called the accused also be proven. Know that the remedy of punishing has been given to you for the safety of many. These arms are of law, not of fury.

haec ostentatio nimirum est contra noxios instituta, ut plus terror corrigat quam poena consumat. non enim cogitur ferro succidere robustam qui adhuc teneram verbis curvat audaciam. civilis est pavor iste, non bellicus, quem tu sic facies esse gloriosum, si habere non probetur excessum.

This ostentation surely is instituted against the noxious (the guilty), so that terror may correct more than punishment may consume. For he who still bends tender audacity by words is not compelled to cut down robust audacity with iron. That fear is civil, not bellicose, which you will thus make to be glorious, if it be not proved to have an excess.

[3] Habes etiam et ferrum nihilominus incruentum. claudantur nexibus catenarum, quos levium criminum pulsat invidia. cunctator esse debet, qui iudicat de salute: alia sententia potest corrigi, de vita transactum non patitur immutari.

[3] You have also, nevertheless, a bloodless iron. Let those whom the ill-will of slight crimes assails be enclosed in the bonds of chains. He who judges about safety ought to be a delayer: another sentence can be corrected; in the matter of life, what has been transacted does not permit being altered.

signa tua abactores timeant, fures pavescant, latrones perhorreant, innocentia tantum laeta respiciat, dum sibi auxilia venisse credit, quae legum disciplina transmisit. nemo redemptionibus tuum velle deflectat: gladius contemnitur, ubi aurum suscipitur: tu te inermem reddis, si a virili animo cupiditate recesseris.

Let your standards be feared by abactors, let thieves be cowed, let brigands shudder; let only innocence look upon them glad, while it believes that auxiliaries have come to it, which the discipline of the laws has sent. Let no one deflect your will by redemptions: the sword is despised where gold is received: you render yourself unarmed, if, by cupidity, you have withdrawn from a virile spirit.

[4] Quocirca per indictionem illam comitivae tibi in illa provincia tribuimus dignitatem, ut ad titulos tuos pertinentia civilitate potius laudabilis exsequaris nec quicquam praesumas facere, nisi quod privatus possis legibus vindicare. ipsa est enim recta amministratio, quae et sine potestate defenditur, ut tunc probetur fuisse iustus, quando ei quae mavult obicere possit inimicus.

[4] Wherefore, by that indiction of the Comitiva we have bestowed upon you, in that province, the dignity, so that you may execute, with civility and thus more laudably, the matters pertaining to your titles, and presume to do nothing except what, as a private person, you could vindicate by the laws. For right administration is that which is defended even without power, so that he may then be proved to have been just, when an enemy can object against him whatever he pleases.

[5] Nec tamen spes vestra velut fastiditate deseritur: nam si bene provinciarum amministrationibus praesidetis, honores vos amplissimos sperare leges merito censuerunt. unde iam videtur paene debitum, quod vobis a tanta auctoritate ultro noscitur fuisse promissum.

[5] Nor, however, is your hope abandoned, as though out of disdain: for if you preside well over the administrations of the provinces, the laws have rightly judged that you may hope for the most ample honors. Whence now it seems almost owed, that which is known to have been promised to you unasked by so great an authority.

II. FORMULA PRAESIDATUS.

2. FORMULA OF THE GOVERNORSHIP.

[1] Prudenter omnimodis inspexit antiquitas provinciarum dignitates annua successione reparari, ut nec diutina potestate unus insolesceret et multorum provectus gaudia reperirent. sufficit enim unicuique discessisse laudatum, quia dum tempus potestatis prolixum quaeritur, culparum obprobria non vitantur. illa enim vel in brevitate declinare mirabile est, dum frequenter et his subrepunt, qui a fascibus sub velocitate discedunt.

[1] Antiquity prudently in every way perceived that the dignities of the provinces should be repaired by annual succession, so that neither would one grow insolent through long-continued power and the joys of the advancement of many would be found. For it suffices for each to have departed praised; because, while a prolonged term of power is sought, the opprobriums of faults are not avoided. For even to decline those in brevity is remarkable, since often they steal upon even those who depart from the fasces with speed.

annus universus et ad declaranda conscientiae bona sufficit et facilius se ab errore custodit. sit in vestro proposito amministrationem unius anni suscipere: nostrum est merentibus tempus augere, quia non facile removere cupimus quos iustos esse sentimus.

A whole year both suffices for declaring the goods of conscience and more easily guards itself from error. Let it be in your purpose to undertake the administration of one year: it is ours to augment the time for those deserving, since we do not readily wish to remove those whom we perceive to be just.

[2] Idcirco conversationis tuae moribus invitati per illam indictionem praesidatum tibi in illa provincia propitia divinitate concedimus, ut sic debeas agere, quemadmodum nobis possessor gratias cum tributis videatur exsolvere. decessorum bona exempla sequere: a vitiosorum te imitatione disiunge: non putetur omnis consuetudo probabilis. cautum debut reddere, non sequacem error alienus.

[2] Therefore, invited by the morals of your conversation (way of life), through that indiction we grant to you the presidency in that province by propitious divinity, so that you should act thus, in such a way that the possessor (landholder) seems to pay us thanks together with his tributes. Follow the good examples of your predecessors: separate yourself from imitation of the vicious: let not every custom be thought commendable. The stipulated ought to be rendered; let not another’s error make you a follower.

prodit stultitiae culpam, qui sequitur accusatum. sed illud melius eligitur, unde praecedentis opinio sub ammiratione laudatur.

He betrays the fault of stupidity who follows the accused. But that is better chosen, whence the opinion of the one preceding is lauded under admiration.

[3] Respice quantis sit provincia plena nobilibus. habes qui et bene de te loqui debeant et derogare praesumant, quia nulla potestas est, quae qualitatem famae suae de ore hominum possit auferre. contra qui fructus est opinione praedicabili per confines ire provincias et ibi invenire verissimam laudem, ubi non imperas potestate!

[3] Consider how full the province is with nobles. You have those who both ought to speak well of you and presume to derogate, because there is no power that can take away the quality of its fame from the mouth of men. On the contrary, what a fruit it is, by a praiseworthy opinion, to go through the bordering provinces and there to find the truest praise, where you do not rule by power!

additur, quod inremuneratum non relinquimus, si te egisse probabiliter audiamus. horre vitium et principis mereris affectum. voluntatem regiam in legibus habes: illis obtempera et nostra cognosceris implere mandata.

it is added that we do not leave things unrewarded, if we hear that you have acted properly. shun vice and you will earn the prince’s affection. you have the royal will in the laws: obey them, and you will be known to fulfill our commands.

III. FORMULA COMITIVAE GOTHORUM PER SINGULAS CIVITATES.

3. FORMULA OF THE COMITAL DIGNITY OF THE GOTHS FOR EACH CITY.

[1] Cum deo iuvante sciamus Gothos vobiscum habitare permixtos, ne qua inter consortes, ut assolet, indisciplinatio nasceretur, necessarium duximus illum sublimem virum, bonis nobis moribus hactenus comprobatum, ad vos comitem destinare, qui secundum edicta nostra inter duos Gothos litem debeat amputare, si quod etiam inter Gothum et Romanum natum fuerit fortasse negotium, adhibito sibi prudente Romano certamen possit aequabili ratione discingere. inter duos autem Romanos Romani audiant quos per provincias dirigimus cognitores, ut unicuique sua iura serventur et sub diversitate iudicum una iustitia complectatur universos.

[1] With God helping, since we know that the Goths dwell mixed together with you, lest any indiscipline, as is wont, should arise among consorts, we have judged it necessary to assign to you as Count that sublime man, hitherto proven to us in good morals, who, according to our edicts, ought to cut off the suit between two Goths; and if perhaps any matter should also arise between a Goth and a Roman, with a prudent Roman adjoined to himself he can disentangle the contest by an even-handed rule. But between two Romans, let Romans be heard by the cognitors whom we dispatch through the provinces, so that to each his own rights may be preserved, and that, under a diversity of judges, one justice may embrace all.

[2] Sic pace communi utraeque nationes divinitate propitia dulci otio perfruantur. scitote autem unam nobis in omnibus aequabiliter esse caritatem: sed ille se animo nostro amplius commendare poterit, qui leges moderata voluntate dilexerit. non amamus aliquid incivile: scelestam superbiam cum suis detestamur auctoribus.

[2] Thus, in common peace, let both nations, with divinity propitious, enjoy sweet leisure. Know, moreover, that there is for us one charity equably in all things: but he will be able to commend himself more to our spirit who shall have loved the laws with a moderated will. We do not love anything uncivil: we detest wicked pride together with its authors.

violentos nostra pietas execratur. in causa possint iura, non brachia. nam cur eligant quaerere violenta, qui praesentia probantur habere iudicia?

Our piety execrates the violent. In a cause let the laws prevail, not arms. For why should they choose to seek violent means, who are proved to have judgments at hand?

ideo enim emolumenta iudicibus damus, ideo tot officia diversis largitatibus continemus, ut inter vos non sinamus crescere quod possit ad odium pertinere.

for this reason indeed we give emoluments to the judges, for this reason we sustain so many offices by diverse largesses, so that we do not allow that which could pertain to hatred to grow among you.

[3] Unum vos amplectatur vivendi votum, quibus unum esse constat imperium. audiat uterque populus quod amamus. Romani vobis sicut sunt possessionibus vicini, ita sint et caritate coniuncti.

[3] Let one vow of living embrace you, for whom it is agreed that the empire is one. Let each people hear what we love. The Romans, just as they are neighbors to you in possessions, so let them also be conjoined with you in charity.

vos autem, Romani, magno studio Gothos diligere debetis, qui et in pace numerosos vobis populos faciunt et universam rem publicam per bella defendunt. itaque destinato a nobis iudici vos convenit oboedire, ut quicquid pro conservandis legibus censuerit, modis omnibus impleatis, quatenus et nostro imperio et vestrae utilitati satisfecisse videamini.

But you, Romans, ought with great zeal to love the Goths, who both in peace make your peoples numerous and in wars defend the whole Republic. And so it is fitting that you obey the judge designated by us, so that whatever he has decreed for the preserving of the laws you fulfill by every means, to the end that you may seem to have satisfied both our authority and your own advantage.

IIII. FORMULA DUCATUS RAETIARUM.

4. FORMULA OF THE DUCHY OF RAETIA.

[1] Quamvis spectabilitatis honor unus esse videatur nec in his aliquid aliud nisi tempus soleat anteferri, tamen rerum qualitate perpensa multum his creditum videtur quibus confinales populi deputantur, quia non est tale pacatis regionibus ius dicere, quale suspectis gentibus assidere, ubi non tantum vitia quantum bella suspecta sunt nec solum vox praeconis insonat, sed tubarum crepitus frequenter insultat.

[1] Although the honor of Spectability seems to be one, and within these ranks nothing other than time is usually given precedence, nevertheless, the quality of the affairs being weighed, much is thought to have been entrusted to those to whom conterminous peoples are assigned; because it is not the same thing to speak law in pacified regions as to sit in judgment by suspect tribes, where not so much vices as wars are suspected, and not only does the herald’s voice resound, but the clatter of trumpets frequently assails.

[2] Raetiae namque munimina sunt Italiae et claustra provinciae: quae non immerito sic appellata esse iudicamus, quando contra feras et agrestissimas gentes velut quaedam plagarum obstacula disponuntur. ibi enim impetus gentilis excipitur et transmissis iaculis sauciatur furibunda praesumptio. sic gentilis impetus vestra venatio est et ludo geritis quod vos assidue feliciter egisse sentitis.

[2] For the muniments of Raetia are the defenses of Italy and the barriers of the province: we judge that it has not undeservedly been so called, since against fierce and most rustic peoples there are disposed, as it were, certain obstacles to blows. For there the gentile onrush is intercepted, and the raging presumption is wounded by javelins sent across. Thus the gentile onrush is your hunt, and you conduct as play what you perceive yourselves to have assiduously and successfully done.

[3] Ideoque validum te ingenio ac viribus audientes per illam indictionem ducatum tibi cedimus Raetiarum, ut milites et in pace regas et cum eis fines nostros sollemni alacritate circueas, quia non parvam rem tibi respicis fuisse commissam, quando tranquillitas regni nostri tua creditur sollicitudine custodiri. ita tamen, ut milites tibi commissi vivant cum provincialibus iure civili nec insolescat animus, qui se sentit armatum, quia clipeus ille exercitus nostri quietem debet praestare Romanis. quos ideo constat appositos, ut intus vita felicior secura libertate carpatur.

[3] And so, hearing you to be strong in ingenuity and in forces, for that indiction we cede to you the ducal command of the Raetias, that you may govern the soldiers even in peace and, with them, patrol our borders with solemn alacrity; for you perceive that no small matter has been entrusted to you, since the tranquillity of our realm is believed to be guarded by your solicitude. Yet on this condition: that the soldiers entrusted to you live with the provincials under civil law, and that the spirit which feels itself armed do not grow insolent; because that shield of our army ought to furnish quiet to the Romans—those whom, for this reason, it is agreed have been set in place, so that within a happier life may be enjoyed in secure liberty.

[4] Quapropter responde nostro iudicio, fide nobis et industria placiturus, ut nec gentiles sine discussione suscipias nec nostros ad gentes sub incuriositate transmittas. ad necessitatem siquidem rarius venitur armorum, ubi suscepta surreptio custodiri posse sentitur. privilegia vero dignitatis tuae nostris tibi iussionibus vindicabis.

[4] Wherefore correspond to our judgment, minded to please us by loyalty and industry, so that you neither receive gentiles without discussion nor send our own to the gentes under inattentiveness. For indeed one more rarely comes to the necessity of arms, where an undertaken surreption is perceived to be able to be kept in custody. But the privileges of your dignity you will vindicate for yourself by our commands.

V. FORMULA CURAE PALATII.

5. FORMULA OF THE CARE OF THE PALACE.

[1] Aula nostra sicut agnoscitur peritis dispositoribus instituta, ita doctorum in ea diligens debet esse cautela, quoniam pulchritudo illa mirabilis, si subinde non reficitur, senectute obrepente vitiatur. haec nostrae sunt oblectamenta potentiae, imperii decora facies, testimonium praeconiale regnorum: haec legatis sub ammiratione monstrantur et prima fronte talis dominus esse creditur, quale eius habitaculum comprobatur. et ideo magna voluptas est prudentissimae mentis pulcherrima iugiter habitatione gaudere et inter publicas curas animum fessum reficere dulcedine fabricarum.

[1] Our palace, just as it is acknowledged to have been instituted by expert arrangers, so within it there ought to be the diligent caution of the learned, since that marvelous beauty, if it is not from time to time renewed, is vitiated as senescence creeps on. These are the delights of our potency, the decorous face of the empire, the proclaiming testimony of kingdoms: these are shown to legates to their admiration, and at first sight the lord is believed to be such as his habitation is proved to be. And therefore it is a great pleasure for a most prudent mind to rejoice continually in a most beautiful dwelling and, amid public cares, to refit the weary spirit by the sweetness of the constructions.

[2] Quas primum Cyclopes dicuntur ad antrorum modum amplissimas in Sicilia condidisse, postquam in cavernis montium Polyphemus ab Ulixe singularis oculi lugendam pertulerat orbitatem. inde ad Italiam fabricandi peritia legitur fuisse translata, ut quod tantis ac talibus institutoribus inventum est, aemulatrix posteritas in suum commodum custodiret.

[2] Which the Cyclopes are said first to have built in Sicily, most spacious, in the manner of caves, after Polyphemus in the caverns of the mountains had endured, at the hands of Ulysses, the lamentable bereavement of his single eye. From there the skill of building is read to have been transferred to Italy, so that what was discovered by such great and suchlike founders, an emulative posterity might preserve for its own advantage.

[3] Hinc est quod spectabilitatem tuam ab illa indictione curam palatii nostri suscipere debere censemus, ut et antiqua in nitorem pristinum contineas et nova simili antiquitate producas: quia, sicut decorum corpus uno convenit colore vestiri, ita nitor palatii similis debet per universa membra diffundi. ad quae sic poteris idoneus inveniri, si frequenter geometram legas Euclidem, si schemata eius mirabili varietate descripta in tuae mentis contemplatione condideris, ut in hora commonito famuletur tibi copiosa notitia.

[3] Hence it is that we judge your Spectability ought to undertake from that Indiction the care of our palace, so that you both keep the old things in their pristine brightness and bring forth new things with a like antiquity: because, just as it befits a comely body to be clothed with a single color, so the sheen of the palace ought to be diffused alike through all its members. To which ends you can thus be found suitable, if you frequently read the geometer Euclid, if you store up his schemata, described with marvelous variety, in the contemplation of your mind, so that, when reminded at the moment, copious knowledge may serve you.

[4] Archimedes quoque subtilissimus exquisitor cum Metrobio tibi semper assistant, ut ad nova reddaris paratissimus, qui libris veterum probaris eruditus. non enim tibi minima cura delegatur, quando animum nostrum fabricandi studio cupidissimum artis tuae ministerio probaris explere. nam sicubi aut civitatem reficimus aut castellorum volumus fundare novitatem vel si construendi nobis praetorii amoenitas blandiatur, te ordinante ad oculos perducitur quod nobis cogitantibus invenitur.

[4] Let Archimedes too, the most subtle investigator, together with Metrobius, always assist you, so that you may be rendered most prepared for new things—you who are proved erudite by the books of the ancients. For no minimal care is delegated to you, since you are shown to satisfy our spirit, most desirous with zeal for fabricating, by the ministry of your art. For wherever we either refit a city, or wish to found new strongholds, or if the amenity of constructing a praetorium should entice us, with you arranging, what is discovered by us as we ponder is brought before our eyes.

decorum magisterium, propositum omnino gloriosum in tam longas aetates mittere, unde te debeat posteritas ammirata laudare.

a decorous magistery, to send a wholly glorious design into such long ages, whence posterity, admiring, ought to laud you.

[5] Quicquid enim aut instructor parietum aut sculptor marmorum aut aeris fusor aut camerum rotator aut gypsoplastes aut musivarius ignorat, te prudenter interrogat et tam magnus ille fabrilis exercitus ad tuum recurrit iudicium, ne possit aliquid habere confusum. vide ergo quanta debet nosse, qui possit tantos instruere. recipis certe bonae dispositionis tuae uberrimum fructum, cum tu de illorum labore laudaris, si ab eis diligenter facta monstraveris.

[5] For whatever either the instructor of walls or the sculptor of marbles or the founder of bronze or the rotator of vaults or the gypsoplast or the mosaic-worker does not know, he prudently asks you, and that great army of craftsmen turns back to your judgment, lest it might have anything confused. See therefore how much he ought to know, who can instruct so many. You surely receive the most abundant fruit of your good disposition, when you are praised on account of their labor, if you have shown things done diligently by them.

quapropter quicquid ad te pertinet, ita decenter, ita firmiter volumus explicari, ut ab opere veterum sola distet novitas fabricarum.

wherefore whatever pertains to you, we wish to be executed so decorously, so firmly, that the novelty of the fabrications differs only from the work of the ancients.

[6] Sed haec possibilia facis, si dona nostra nulla cupiditate suppresseris. efficaciter enim imperat artifici, qui eum competenti non patitur commoditate fraudari. manus larga artium nutrit ingenia, quando qui de victu non cogitat, perficere iussa festinat.

[6] But you make these things possible, if you do not suppress our gifts out of any cupidity. For he commands the artificer effectively who does not permit him to be defrauded of fitting emolument. A liberal hand nourishes the talents of the arts, since he who does not think about sustenance hastens to complete the orders.

illud quoque considera, qua gratificatione tracteris, ut aurea virga decoratus inter obsequia numerosa ante pedes regios primus videaris incedere, ut ipso testimonio vicinitatis nostrae agnoscamur tibi palatia commisisse.

consider this also, with what favor you are treated: that, decorated with a golden rod, among the numerous attendances you may seem to advance first before the royal feet, so that by the very testimony of our vicinity we may be acknowledged to have entrusted the palaces to you.

VI. FORMULA COMITIVAE FORMARUM.

6. FORMULA FOR THE COUNT-SHIP OF THE FORMS.

[1] Quamvis Romuleae fabricae collatae sibi vix possint praecipuae reperiri, quia totum ad ammirationem noscitur exquisitum, quod ibi cernitur esse fundatum, tamen interesse arbitramur, quod utilitas necessaria gratificat et quod pulchritudinis tantum causa commendat. Traiani forum vel sub assiduitate videre miraculum est: Capitolia celsa conscendere hoc est humana ingenia superata vidisse. sed numquid per ea vivitur aut corporis salus aliqua inde delectatione recreatur?

[1] Although the Romulean constructions, when compared among themselves, can scarcely have principal ones found, because the whole is known to be exquisite for admiration, whatever is there seen to be founded, yet we think it matters to distinguish what necessary utility gratifies and what commends solely for the sake of beauty. Trajan’s Forum—even to behold it repeatedly—is a miracle; to climb the lofty Capitolia—this is to have seen human ingenuity surpassed. But is life lived by these things, or is the health of the body in any way refreshed by the delight from them?

[2] In formis autem Romanis utrumque praecipuum est, ut fabrica sit mirabilis et aquarum salubritas singularis. quot enim illuc flumina quasi constructis montibus perducuntur, naturales credas alveos soliditate saxorum, quando tantus impetus fluminis tot saeculis firmiter potuit sustineri. cavati montes plerumque subruunt, meatus torrentium dissipantur: et opus illud veterum non destruitur, si industria suffragante servetur.

[2] But in the Roman aqueducts each point is preeminent, that the workmanship be marvelous and the salubrity of the waters singular. For how many rivers are conducted thither as if with mountains constructed; you would think them natural channels by the solidity of the rocks, since so great an impetus of a river has been able to be sustained firmly through so many ages. Hollowed mountains for the most part collapse, the passages of torrents are dissipated; and that work of the ancients is not destroyed, if, industry lending its support, it is preserved.

[3] Respiciamus certe aquarum copia quantum Romanis moenibus praestat ornatum. nam thermarum illa pulchritudo quid esset, si dulcissima quaedam aequora non haberet? currit aqua Virgo sub delectatione purissima, quae ideo sic appellata creditur, quod nullis sordibus polluatur.

[3] Let us indeed look back at how much the abundance of waters supplies ornament to the Roman walls. For what would that beauty of the baths be, if it did not have certain very sweet sheets of water? The Aqua Virgo runs with the purest delectation, which is therefore believed to be so named, because it is defiled by no filth.

nam cum aliae pluviarum nimietate terrena commixtione violentur, haec aerem perpetue serenum purissime labens unda mentitur. quis possit talia sermonibus idoneis explicare?

for while others are violated by the excess of rains through a terrene commixture, this wave, gliding most purely, feigns air perpetually serene. who could explicate such things with suitable discourses?

[4] Claudiam per tantam fastigii molem sic ad Aventini caput esse perductam, ut cum ibi ex alto lapsa ceciderit, cacumen illud excelsum quasi imam vallem irrigare videatur. Aegyptius Nilus certis temporibus crescens per campos iacentes superducto diluvio aere sereno turbulentus exaestuat: sed quanto pulchrius est Claudiam Romanam per tot siccas montium summitates lavacris ac domibus liquores purissimos fistularum uberibus emisisse et ita aequaliter fluere, ut numquam se possit desiderata subducere! ille enim dum recedit, limus est, dum venit insperate, diluvium.

[4] The Claudia, through so great a mass of gradient, has been brought thus to the head of the Aventine, that, when there, having slipped from on high, it has fallen, that lofty summit seems as if to irrigate the lowest valley. The Egyptian Nile, swelling at fixed times, with a deluge carried over the lying fields, in clear air seethes turbulently: but how much more beautiful it is that the Roman Claudia, across so many dry summits of the mountains, has emitted for baths and houses the purest liquors from the udders of the pipes, and flows so evenly that, being desired, it can never withdraw itself! for that one, while it recedes, is mud; while it comes unexpectedly, a deluge.

quis ergo famosum Nilum urbis nostrae fluminibus non aestimet esse superatum? quando Nilicolas suos aut veniendo terret aut recedendo destituit.

Who, therefore, would not esteem the famous Nile to have been surpassed by the rivers of our city? since he either frightens his Nile-dwellers by coming or leaves them destitute by receding.

[5] Verum haec non superflua commemoratione narravimus, ut possis advertere qualis a te diligentia perquiratur, cui pulchritudo tanta committitur. qua de re per indictionem illam comitivam tibi formarum sub magna deliberatione credidimus, ut summo studio nitaris efficere quod tantis ac talibus rebus respicis expedire.

[5] Yet we have recounted these things not by a superfluous commemoration, that you may perceive what sort of diligence is required of you, to whom so great a beauty is entrusted. Concerning which matter, through that comital indiction we have, with great deliberation, committed to you the conduits, that with the highest zeal you may strive to bring to effect what you regard to be expedient for such great and suchlike affairs.

[6] In primis noxias arbores, quae inferunt fabricarum ruinas, dum sunt quidam moenium importabiles arietes, censemus radicitus amputari, quia nulla laesio removetur, cuius origo non tollitur. si quid autem conficiente senio fuerit demolitum, pervigili celeritate reparetur, ne crescente defectu augeatur nobis causa dispendii. ductus aquae fortuna tua est, dum incolumis eris, si illa solidaveris, tantumque apud nos proficis, quantum te illis studuisse probaveris.

[6] In the first place, we judge that the noxious trees, which bring the ruin of structures—since they are, as it were, intolerable battering-rams against the walls—be cut off root-and-branch, because no lesion is removed whose origin is not taken away. But if anything has been demolished by senescence completing its work, let it be repaired with ever-vigilant speed, lest, as the defect grows, the cause of expense grow for us. The aqueduct is your fortune: you will be unharmed if you solidify it, and you make progress with us just so far as you will have proved that you have been studious about those matters.

agat ergo peritia fidesque tua, ut et constructio fabricae illibata permaneat et aquae distributio nulla se custodum venalitate subducat.

Therefore, let your expertise and fidelity take the lead, so that both the construction of the works remains inviolate, and the distribution of the water is not diverted by any venality of the guards.

VII. FORMULA PRAEFECTURAE VIGILUM URBIS ROMAE.

7. FORMULA OF THE PREFECTURE OF THE VIGILES OF THE CITY OF ROME.

[1] Quamvis nomen tuum ad civitatis te vigilias debeat excitare, ut possis implere quod diceris, tamen providentiae nostrae solita cautela non deserit, nisi eos quos ad agendum deligimus, ad parendum quoque suaviter invitemus. quid enim tibi pulchrius quam in illa urbe operam navanter impendere diligentiae tuae, ubi tales testes videntur assistere? cautela quidem tua, mox adhibita fuerit, per patriciorum et consulum ora discurrit: vix te contingit aliquid sollicite facere et audis proceres cum ammiratione laudare.

[1] Although your name ought to rouse you to the city’s vigils, so that you can fulfill what you are called, nevertheless the customary caution of our providence does not desert us; it sees to it that those whom we select for acting, we also suavely invite to obey. For what is more beautiful for you than to expend the service of your diligence zealously in that city, where such witnesses seem to stand by? Your caution, indeed, as soon as it has been brought to bear, runs through the mouths of the patricians and consuls: scarcely does it befall you to do anything solicitously, and you hear the grandees praise with admiration.

mediocrem dignitatem regis et in summa opinione versaris. custos Romanae civitatis diceris, quoniam eam ab intestino hoste defendis.

you exercise a mediocre dignity of the king and move in the highest estimation. you are called the guardian of the Roman city, since you defend it from the internal enemy.

[2] Quapropter circa fures esto sollicitus. quos etsi tibi leges punire minime praecipiunt, tamen eos indagandi licentiam non tulerunt: credo ut quamvis essent raptores detestabiles, tamen, quia dicebantur Romani, maiori eos subderent dignitati. utere igitur per indictionem illam praefecturae vigilibus dignitate.

[2] Wherefore be solicitous concerning thieves. Although the laws by no means enjoin you to punish them, nevertheless they did not withhold from you the license of tracking them down: I believe that, although they were detestable robbers, yet, because they were called Romans, they would subject them to a higher dignity. Use, therefore, through that indiction, the dignity of the Prefecture’s vigiles.

horror tibi poenarum ademptus est, non potestas: nam lex a quo voluit malos capi ipsum censuit plus timeri. eris igitur securitas soporantium, munimen domorum, tutela claustrorum, discussor obscurus, arbiter silentiosus, cui fallere insidiantes fas est et decipere gloria.

the horror of penalties has been taken from you, not the power: for the law decreed that he by whom it wished the wicked to be seized should himself be more feared. you will therefore be the security of the slumbering, the muniment of homes, the tutelage of bolts, an obscure investigator, a silent arbiter, for whom it is lawful to beguile those lying in wait and to deceive is a glory.

[3] Actus tuus venatio nocturna est, quae miro modo si non cernitur, tunc tenetur. furta magis in furibus facis, dum illos circumvenire niteris quos omnibus illudere posse cognoscis. praestigii genus est quod agitis, ut latronum versutias irretire possitis.

[3] Your act is a nocturnal hunt, which, in a wondrous way, if it is not perceived, then it catches. You commit thefts rather upon thieves, while you strive to circumvent those whom you know can illude everyone. It is a kind of prestidigitation that you practice, so that you may ensnare the cunning of brigands.

facilius enim aestimamus sphingae aenigmata comprehendi potuisse quam raptoris fugacem praesentiam reperire. ille circumspectus ad omnia, instabilis ad ventura, trepidus ad insidias quemadmodum potest capi, qui more venti nullo situ cernitur contineri?

for we estimate it easier that the Sphinx’s enigmas could have been apprehended than to find the robber’s fleeting presence. He, circumspect in all things, unstable toward what is to come, tremulous at ambushes—how can he be seized, who, after the manner of the wind, is seen to be contained by no place?

[4] Vigila impiger cum nocturnis avibus: nox tibi pandat aspectus et sicut illae reperiunt in obscuris cibum, ita tu possis invenire praeconium. esto nunc ad iniuncta sollicitus. venalitas tibi non adimat quod concedit industria.

[4] Keep watch, untiring, with the nocturnal birds: let night lay open sights for you, and just as they find food in the obscurities, so you may be able to find public acclaim. Be now solicitous for the things enjoined. Let venality not take away from you what industry grants.

nam licet haec sub profunda caligine videantur geri, nullus tamen actus est qui possit abscondi. privilegia quoque tua vel officii deputati ex nostra tibi auctoritate rationabiliter vindicabis, quia necesse est in tam magna civitate per diversos iudices agi, quod ab uno non potest explicari.

for although these things may seem to be carried on under a deep murk, yet there is no act that can be concealed. you will also reasonably vindicate your privileges, whether your own or of the deputed office, for yourself by our authority, because in so great a city it is necessary for what cannot be explicated by one to be transacted through diverse judges.

VIII. FORMULA PRAEFECTURAE VIGILUM URBIS RAVENNATIS.

8. FORMULA OF THE PREFECTURE OF THE VIGILES OF THE CITY OF RAVENNA.

[1] Quamvis dignitate magni nominis prima fronte decoreris, quia non potuit antiquorum prudentia summa imaque simili appellatione censere, ne splendorem quem summis dabat alterius vilitate pollueret, tamen hinc intellegitur, quid sentire maiorum potuisset auctoritas, quando praefectos vigilibus appellare voluerunt qui pro generali quiete discurrunt. tibi enim commissa est fortunarum securitas, civitatis ornatus, utilitas omnium, scilicet ut contra domesticos grassatores bellum pacatum gereres, si quem civium laedendum esse sentires.

[1] Although you are adorned at first glance with the dignity of a great name, since the prudence of the ancients could not judge the highest and the lowest by a similar appellation, lest it pollute the splendor which it gave to the highest by the vileness of another, nevertheless from this it is understood what the authority of the elders could have thought, when they wished to call Prefects of the Watch those who run about for the general quiet. For to you has been entrusted the security of fortunes, the adornment of the city, the utility of all, namely that you might wage a pacific war against domestic aggressors, if you should perceive any of the citizens to be going to be harmed.

[2] Custodi fortunas omnium. securus somnus te vigilante carpitur et molestia nulla sentitur. in pace positus sumis de nocturno fure victorias.

[2] Guard the fortunes of all. secure sleep is enjoyed with you keeping vigil, and no molestation is felt. placed in peace, you take up victories over the nocturnal thief.

tuis laureis mane civitas defensa laetatur, quae, dum captos respicit, tunc se occulto hoste caruisse cognoscit. cottidie triumphas, si bene vigilas, et cum rara sit gloria bellici certaminis, tibi iugiter latronibus famulatur inventis. o ducatum nimia civium affectione susceptum!

In the morning the defended city rejoices in your laurels, which, while it looks upon the captured, then recognizes that it has been without a hidden enemy. Every day you triumph, if you keep good watch; and since the glory of warlike contest is rare, a continual service waits upon you when brigands are found out. O command undertaken by the excessive affection of the citizens!

assumes praedones inquirere, quos pro se dominus non valet invenire et duplici ratione beneficus aut futura furta prohibes aut admissa concludis.

you assume to inquire after brigands, whom the master is not able to find for himself; and, beneficent in a twofold manner, you either prohibit future thefts or, once they have been committed, you conclude them.

[3] Nonne ista quaedam est ineffabilis gratia civitatis unum in se suscipere, quod videt omnibus expedire? merito tibi gloriosum nomen praefecti prudens antiquitas deputavit, quia istud facere non poterat, nisi qui cives a suis commodis plus amabat. officium quoque tuum non parvo constat munere sublevatum, quando et ipsis momenti iura dilatata sunt, qui pro securitate civium militare noscuntur.

[3] Is not this a certain ineffable grace of the city, to take upon itself alone that which it sees to be expedient for all? Deservedly prudent antiquity deputed to you the glorious name of prefect, since that could not be done except by one who loved the citizens more than his own advantages. Your office too is held to have been supported by no small benefaction, since even to those who are known to do military service for the security of the citizens the rights of rank have been extended.

[4] Quae cum ita sint, praefecturam tibi vigilibus per illam indictionem, delectati tua opinione, concedimus, ita ut et curam huius dignitatis et privilegia tibi competentia modis omnibus exsequaris. sed quamvis nomen odiosissimum furum generalis persequatur assensus, tamen quia de effusione humani sanguinis agitur, nihil subitum aut indeliberatum iubemus assumi. modestiam sequere, qui damnas audaciam: continentiam dilige, qui furta condemnas.

[4] Since these things are so, we grant to you the prefecture over the watchmen for that indiction, delighted by our good opinion of you, so that you in every way execute both the care of this dignity and the privileges befitting you. But although the most odious name of thieves is pursued by general assent, nevertheless, since it is a matter of the shedding of human blood, we order that nothing sudden or undeliberated be undertaken. Follow modesty, you who condemn audacity: cherish continence, you who condemn thefts.

ad gesta perducti audiantur aliquid pro salute dicturi, quoniam quicquid non discutitur, iustitia non putatur. convictis vero atque confessis quae sunt secreta serventur: quando crudele nihil efficit qui sequitur leges.

let those conducted to the court records be heard, about to say something for their safety, since whatever is not discussed is not considered justice. but for those convicted and also confessing, let the things that are secret be preserved: since he who follows the laws effects nothing cruel.

VIIII. FORMULA COMITIVAE PORTUS URBIS ROMAE.

9. FORMULA OF THE COUNTSHIP OF THE PORT OF THE CITY OF ROME.

[1] Deliciosa magis quam laboriosa militia est in Portu Romano comitivae gerere dignitatem. illic enim copiosus navium prospectatur adventus: illic veligerum mare peregrinos populos cum diversa provinciarum merce transmittit et inter tot spectacula dulcium rerum commodum tuum est venientes evasisse periculum. his primum faucibus Romanae deliciae sentiuntur et undis Tiberinis quasi per alvum vadunt quae ad commercia civitatis ascendunt.

[1] The militia is more delicious than laborious, to bear the dignity of the comitiva in the Roman Port. For there a copious arrival of ships is beheld: there the sail-bearing sea transmits peregrine peoples with the diverse merchandise of the provinces; and among so many spectacles of sweet things, it is your advantage that those coming have escaped danger. In these first throats the Roman delights are felt, and by the Tiberine waves, as if through a belly, go the things which ascend to the commerce of the city.

[2] Bene inventa dignitas, quae copias videtur ornare Romanas. nam quid elegantius potest agi quam unde probatur populus ille satiari? o inventa maiorum!

[2] A well-devised dignity, which seems to adorn the Roman resources. For what more elegant can be done than that whereby that people is proved to be satiated? O inventions of the ancestors!

o exquisita prudentium! ut quia longius a litore Roma videbatur posita, inde magis esse inciperet, ubi decorum ingressum navium possideret. duo quippe Tiberini alvei meatus ornatissimas civitates tamquam duo lumina susceperunt, ne vacaret a gratia quod tantae urbi ministrabat expensas.

o exquisite wisdom of the prudent! so that, because Rome seemed set farther from the shore, from there she might begin to be more, where she would possess the decorous ingress of ships. for indeed the two passages of the Tiberine bed have taken up most ornate cities, as though two lights, lest that which ministered expenses to so great a city be void of grace.

eximia ergo res tibi committitur, si moderate peragatur.

Therefore an exceptional matter is committed to you, if it be performed with moderation.

[3] Tu copiam facis, dum ingredientes iuste tractaveris. avara manus portum claudit et cum digitos attrahit, navium simul vela concludit. merito enim illa mercatores cuncti refugiunt, quae sibi dispendiosa esse cognoscunt.

[3] You produce plenty, so long as you treat those entering justly. An avaricious hand closes the port, and when it draws in its fingers, it at the same time shuts the sails of the ships. For deservedly all merchants shun that place which they recognize to be costly to themselves.

quapropter adversus ibi ventus est immoderata praesumptio: nam placidum mare damnat, qui undas cupiditatis exaggerat. unusquisque pro sollemnitate commonitus offerat voluntarium munus. Xenia sunt enim ista, non debita.

wherefore the contrary wind there is immoderate presumption: for he condemns the placid sea who heaps up the waves of cupidity. let each person, admonished for the solemnity, offer a voluntary gift. for these are Xenia, not debts.

a paucis accipit qui nimium quaerit: et sibi ipse nutrit vitae munera, qui moderatur oblata.

He who seeks too much receives from few: and he himself nourishes the gifts of life, who moderates what is offered.

[4] Sit tibi ergo cura praecipua non solum te abstinere, verum etiam cohibere praesumentium manus, quia non est leve in illa ubertate delinquere, quam decet cunctos indesinenter optare. quocirca per indictionem illam comitivae Portus te honore decoramus, ut sicut tibi dignitas dulces delicias amministrat, ita et tu honori opinionem laudabilem derelinquas.

[4] Therefore let your principal care be not only to abstain yourself, but also to restrain the hands of the presumptuous, for it is no light thing, in that abundance which it befits all unceasingly to desire, to commit a delinquency. Wherefore, by that Indiction of the Countship of Portus we adorn you with honor, so that, just as dignity administers sweet delights to you, so you also may bequeath to the honor a laudable reputation.

X. FORMULA TRIBUNI VOLUPTATUM.

10. FORMULA OF THE TRIBUNE OF PLEASURES.

[1] Quamvis artes lubricae honestis moribus sint remotae et histrionum vita vaga videatur efferri posse licentia, tamen moderatrix providit antiquitas, ut in totum non effluerent, cum et ipsae iudicem sustinerent. amministranda est enim sub quadam disciplina exhibitio voluptatum. teneat scaenicos si non verus, vel umbratilis ordo iudicii.

[1] Although slippery arts are removed from honorable morals, and the wandering life of actors seems able to be carried away by license, yet antiquity, acting as a moderatrix, provided that they might not flow out entirely, since they themselves also sustained a judge. For the exhibition of pleasures must be administered under a certain discipline. Let a true—if not that, at least a shadowy—order of judgment hold the stage-players.

temperentur et haec legum qualitate negotia, quasi honestas imperet inhonestis, et quibusdam regulis vivant, qui viam rectae conversationis ignorant. student enim illi non tantum iucunditati suae, quantum alienae laetitiae et condicione perversa cum dominatum suis corporibus tradunt, servire potius animas compulerunt.

Let these affairs too be tempered by the quality of laws, as though honesty were to command the dishonorable, and let those who are ignorant of the way of upright conversation live by certain rules. For they strive not so much after their own jocundity as after others’ joy, and by a perverse condition, when they hand over dominion over their bodies, they have rather compelled their souls to serve.

[2] Dignum fuit ergo moderatorem suscipere, qui se nesciunt iuridica conversatione tractare. locus quippe tuus his gregibus hominum veluti quidam tutor est positus. nam sicut illi aetates teneras adhibita cautela custodiunt, sic a te voluptates fervidae impensa maturitate frenandae sunt.

[2] It was fitting, therefore, to assume a moderator for those who do not know how to manage themselves with juridical conversation; for your post has been set as a kind of tutor for these flocks of men. For just as tutors guard tender ages with applied caution, so by you fervid pleasures must be reined in with deliberate maturity.

age bonis institutis quod nimia prudentia constat invenisse maiores. leve desiderium etsi verecundia non cohibet, districtio praenuntiata modificat. agantur spectacula suis consuetudinibus ordinata, quia nec illi possunt invenire gratiam, nisi imitati fuerint aliquam disciplinam.

Do by good institutions that which it is agreed the ancestors, by excessive prudence, discovered. Even if modesty does not restrain a light desire, a preannounced strictness moderates it. Let spectacles be conducted, ordered by their own customs, since neither can they find favor unless they have imitated some discipline.

[3] Quapropter tribunum te voluptatum per illam indictionem nostra facit electio, ut omnia sic agas, quemadmodum tibi vota civitatis adiungas, ne quod ad laetitiam constat inventum, tuis temporibus ad culpas videatur fuisse transmissum. cum fama diminutis salva tua opinione versare. castitatem dilige, cui subiacent prostitutae: ut magna laude dicatur: 'virtutibus studuit, qui voluptatibus miscebatur'. optamus enim ut per ludicram amministrationem ad seriam pervenias dignitatem.

[3] Wherefore our selection makes you tribune of pleasures for that indiction, so that you may do all things in such a way as to join to yourself the votes of the city, lest that which is agreed to have been invented for joy should seem in your times to have been transferred to faults. With rumor diminished, conduct yourself, your good repute being safe. Love chastity, to which prostitutes are subject: so that it may be said with great praise: 'he strove for virtues, who was mingled with pleasures'. For we wish that through the ludic administration you may arrive at a serious dignity.

XI. FORMULA DEFENSORIS CUIUSLIBET CIVITATIS.

11. FORMULA OF THE DEFENDER OF ANY CITY.

[1] Si ad cuiuslibet negotium peragendum talis eligitur, qui consilio et gravitate laudetur, quanto praestantior esse debes, qui suscipis negotia civitatis? nam si periculum est unum decipere, quid erit imparem tantorum iudiciis extitisse? causa enim multorum bene acta nobilitat, quando totum bono proposito agere creditur, qui generalibus desideriis adesse sentitur.

[1] If for the carrying-through of anyone’s business such a man is chosen as is praised for counsel and gravity, how much more preeminent must you be, who undertake the business of the city? For if it is a danger to deceive a single person, what will it be to have proved unequal to the judgments of so many? For the cause of many, well conducted, brings nobility, since he who is felt to be present to the general desires is believed to act wholly with a good purpose.

[2] Defensorem te itaque illius civitatis per indictionem illam, civium tuorum supplicatione permota, nostra concedit auctoritas, ut nihil venale, nihil improbum facere velis, qui tali nomine nuncuparis. commercia civibus secundum temporum qualitatem aequabili moderatione dispone. definita serva quae iusseris, quia non est labor vendendi summas includere nisi statuta pretia castissime custodire.

[2] Therefore our authority grants you as Defender of that city through that indiction, moved by the supplication of your fellow citizens, so that you should will to do nothing venal, nothing improper, you who are designated by such a name. Arrange commerce for the citizens with an even moderation according to the quality of the times. Keep the things defined which you have ordered, for the labor is not to include the sums of selling, except to guard most scrupulously the fixed prices.

imples enim re vera boni defensoris officium, si cives tuos nec legibus patiaris opprimi nec caritate consumi.

for you truly fulfill the office of a good defensor, if you do not allow your citizens to be oppressed by the laws nor to be consumed by dearness.

XII. FORMULA CURATORIS CIVITATIS.

12. FORMULA OF THE CURATOR OF THE CITY.

[1] Quamvis per se honorabilis habeatur, qui vel minimam sollicitudinem civitati propriae videtur impendere et inter suos magna reverentia perfruatur, qui cives se amare professus est, tamen indubitatus honor est qui nostra electione confertur, quia praeditus bonis institutis creditur, cui aliquid principis auctoritate delegatur.

[1] Although he is held honorable in himself, who seems to expend even the very least solicitude for his own city, and he enjoys great reverence among his own, who has professed that he loves the citizens, yet undoubted honor is that which is conferred by our election, because he is believed to be endowed with good institutes, to whom something is delegated by the authority of the prince.

[2] Et ideo ab indictione illa illius civitatis curam ad te volumus pertinere, ut laudabiles ordines curiae sapienter gubernes, moderata pretia ab ipsis quorum interest facias custodiri. non sit merces in potestate sola vendentium: aequabilitas grata custodiatur in omnibus. opulentissima siquidem et hinc gratia civium colligitur, si pretia sub moderatione serventur, ut vere curatoris impleas officium, cum tibi sollicitudo fuerit de utilitate cunctorum.

[2] And therefore, from that indiction onward we wish the care of that city to pertain to you, that you may wisely govern the praiseworthy orders of the Curia, and ensure that moderate prices are observed by those whom it concerns. Let not the merchandise be in the sole power of the sellers: let welcome equity be kept in all things. For indeed from this too the very great goodwill of the citizens is gathered, if prices are kept under moderation, so that you may truly fulfill the office of Curator, since your solicitude will be for the utility of all.

consuetudines autem tibi ex nostra auctoritate defende, quas in eodem loco tuos constat habuisse maiores.

Moreover, defend for yourself by our authority the customs which it is established your ancestors possessed in that same place.

XIII. FORMULA COMITIVAE ROMANAE.

13. FORMULA OF THE ROMAN COUNTSHIP.

[1] Si clausis domibus ac munitis insidiari solet nequissimum votum, quanto magis in Romana civitate videtur illici, qui in plateis pretiosum reperit quod possit auferri? nam quidam populus copiosissimus statuarum, greges etiam abundantissimi equorum, tali sunt cautela servandi, quali et cura videntur affixi, ubi, si esset humanis rebus ulla consideratio, Romanam pulchritudinem non vigiliae, sed sola deberet reverentia custodire.

[1] If a most nefarious intent is wont to lie in wait even for houses shut and fortified, how much more, in the Roman city, does he seem to be enticed who in the streets finds something precious that can be carried off? For indeed a populace most copious in statues, and even herds most abundant of horses, are to be guarded with such caution as that they seem, as it were, to have care itself affixed to them; where, if there were any consideration in human affairs, Roman beauty ought to be kept not by watchmen, but by reverence alone.

[2] Quid dicamus marmora metallis et ante pretiosa? quae si vacet eripere, rara manus est quae possit a talibus abstinere. ubi sunt exposita, quae facere potuerunt divitiae generales et labor mundi, quem inter ista deceat esse neglegentem?

[2] What shall we say of marbles, more precious even than metals? If there be leisure to snatch them, it is a rare hand that can abstain from such things. Where are exposed those things which general riches and the labor of the world were able to make—who, amid these, would it be fitting to be negligent?

quis in causa tali patitur esse venalis, quando gravissimum damnum potest fieri in pulchritudine singulari?

who, in such a cause, allows himself to be venal, when the most grievous damage can be wrought upon singular beauty?

[3] Qua de re per illam indictionem comitivae Romanae cum privilegiis et iustis commodis suis tibi concedimus dignitatem, ut fideli studio magnoque nisu quaeras improbas manus et insidiantes aut privatorum fortunis aut moenibus ad tuum facias venire iudicium et rei veritate discussa congruam subeant de legibus ultionem, quia iuste tales persequitur publicus dolor, qui decorem veterum foedant detruncatione membrorum faciuntque illa in monumentis publicis, quae debent pati.

[3] Concerning which matter, for that Indiction we grant to you the dignity of the Roman Comitiva with its privileges and just advantages, so that with faithful zeal and great exertion you may seek out nefarious hands and those laying ambushes either for the fortunes of private persons or for the walls, and cause them to come to your judgment; and, the truth of the matter having been sifted, let them undergo the fitting vengeance from the laws, since public grief justly pursues such men, who defile the adornment of the ancients by detruncation of limbs and inflict upon things in public monuments the very things which they themselves ought to suffer.

[4] Officium tuum et milites consuetos noctibus potius invigilare compelle: in die autem civitas se ipsa custodit: vigilans enim studio non indiget alieno. furta quidem persuadent: sed tunc praesumptus facile capitur, cum custos minime supervenire sentitur. statuae nec in toto mutae sunt, quando a furibus percussae custodes videntur tinnitibus ammonere.

[4] Compel your office and the soldiers accustomed to keep watch rather by night: in the day, however, the city guards itself: for the vigilant has no need of another’s zeal. Thefts indeed persuade: but then the presumptuous offender is easily captured, when the guard is perceived least of all to come upon him. Statues are not wholly mute either, when struck by thieves they seem to admonish the guards with their ringing.

proinde diligentiam tuam devotione laudabili sentiamus, ut cui nunc laboriosos fasces iniungimus, securos honores postea conferamus.

accordingly, let us perceive your diligence with laudable devotion, so that on you, upon whom we now impose the laborious fasces, we may afterward bestow secure honors.

XIIII. FORMULA COMITIVAE RAVENNATIS.

14. FORMULA OF THE RAVENNATE COUNTSHIP.

[1] Si aestimanda est dignitas ex labore, si laudabilis sollicitudo actuum publicorum parit gratiam liberaliter servienti, summa gratificatione locus tuus habendus est, qui suis necessitatibus probatur adimere nostris ordinationibus tarditatem. quis enim nesciat quantam copiam navium leviter procures ammonitus? a dignitatibus palatii nostri vix in evectionibus scribitur et iam a te summa celeritate completur.

[1] If dignity is to be appraised from labor, if the praiseworthy solicitude of public acts begets favor for one serving liberally, your place ought to be held with the highest gratification, you who by your own necessities are proved to take away slowness from our ordinations. For who does not know how great a supply of ships you easily procure when once advised? Scarcely is it written in the evections by the dignitaries of our palace, and already by you it is completed with utmost celerity.

[2] Nam inter dimissorum festinationes anxias vix sufficit alter advertere quod te vivaciter contingit implere. negotiatorum operas consuetas nec nimias exigas nec venalitate derelinquas. sit modus qui non potest gravare laborantes, ut, cum res querelosas sine querimoniis egeris, maiora de nostro examine merearis.

[2] For amid the anxious hastenings of those sent off, scarcely does another suffice to notice what it befalls you to accomplish with vivacity. Do not exact from the merchants’ accustomed services things excessive, nor abandon them to venality. Let there be a measure that cannot burden those laboring, so that, when you have managed querulous matters without complaints, you may merit greater things from our examination.

[3] Proinde comitivam Ravennatem per illam indictionem tibi serenitas nostra concedit, ut dignitatis tuae privilegia subeas et labores. officium tuum aequitatis consideratione moderare. semper enim et laedendi et praestandi causas invenit, qui publicis actionibus adhibetur.

[3] Accordingly Our Serenity grants to you the Countship of Ravenna for that indiction, so that you may undergo both the privileges and the labors of your dignity. Moderate your office by a consideration of equity. For he who is employed in public actions always finds causes both for injuring and for rendering benefits.

sed quantum amministratio tua inter mediocres agitur, tanta debet aequalitate trutinari, quia illum potius expedit tenere mensuram, qui defectam noscitur gubernare substantiam. idonei damna vix sentiunt, tenues autem levi dispendio vulnerantur, quando vel mediocri iniuria totum videtur amittere, qui exiguum cognoscitur possidere.

but inasmuch as your administration is conducted among men of moderate means, it ought to be weighed with an equal balance; for it is rather expedient that he keep measure who is known to govern a defective substance (estate). The well-provisioned scarcely feel losses, but the lowly are wounded by a slight dispendium, since he who is known to possess but a little seems to lose the whole even by a moderate injury.

XV. FORMULA AD PRAEFECTUM URBIS DE ARCHITECTO FACIENDO IN URBE ROMA.

15. FORMULA TO THE PREFECT OF THE CITY CONCERNING APPOINTING AN ARCHITECT IN THE CITY OF ROME.

[1] Romanae fabricae decus peritum convenit habere custodem, ut illa mirabilis silva moenium diligentia subveniente servetur et moderna facies operis affabris dispositionibus construatur. hoc enim studio largitas nostra non cedit, ut et facta veterum exclusis defectibus innovemus et nova vetustatis gloria vestiamus.

[1] It is fitting that the ornament of Roman building have a skilled custodian, so that that marvelous forest of walls, with diligence coming to the aid, may be preserved, and the modern face of the work may be constructed by craftsmanly dispositions. For in this pursuit our largess does not yield, so that we may both innovate the works of the ancients, defects shut out, and vest new things with the glory of antiquity.

[2] Proinde illum illustris magnitudo tua Romanis arcibus ab illa indictione datum architectum esse cognoscat. et quia iustis commodis studia constat artium nutrienda, ad eum volumus pertinere quicquid decessores eius constat rationabiliter consecutos. videbit profecto meliora quam legit, pulchriora quam cogitare potuit, statuas illas, auctorum suorum scilicet adhuc signa retinentes, ut quamdiu laudabilium personarum opinio superesset, tamdiu et similitudinem vivae substantiae imago corporis custodiret: conspiciet expressas in aere venas, nisu quodam musculos tumentes, nervos quasi gradu tensos et sic hominem fusum in diversas similitudines, ut credas potius esse generatum.

[2] Therefore let your illustrious Magnitude know that that architect has been assigned to the Roman citadels from that indiction. and since it is agreed that the pursuits of the arts must be nourished by just emoluments, we desire that there pertain to him whatever it is agreed his predecessors reasonably obtained. he will assuredly see things better than he has read, more beautiful than he could have conceived: those statues, namely, still retaining the signs of their authors, such that for as long as the opinion of laudable persons should survive, for so long also the image of the body would keep the likeness of living substance. he will behold veins expressed in bronze, muscles swelling with a certain strain, sinews as if taut for a stride, and thus a man cast into diverse similitudes, so that you would rather believe him to have been begotten.

[3] Has primum Tusci in Italia invenisse referuntur, quas amplexa posteritas paene parem populum urbi dedit quam natura procreavit. mirabitur formis equinis signa etiam inesse fervoris. crispatis enim naribus ac rotundis, constrictis membris, auribus remulsis credet forsitan cursus appetere, cum se metalla noverit non movere.

[3] The Tuscans are reported first to have discovered these in Italy, and posterity, having embraced them, has given to the city an almost equal populace to that which Nature procreated. He will marvel that in equine forms there are even signs of fervor present. For with nostrils crisped and rounded, with limbs constricted, with ears pulled back, he will perhaps believe they desire the course, although he knows that the metals themselves do not move.

quid dicamus columnarum iunceam proceritatem? moles illas sublimissimas fabricarum quasi quibusdam erectis hastilibus contineri et sub tanta aequalitate concavis canalibus excavatas, ut magis ipsas aestimes fuisse transfusas, ceris iudices factum, quod metallis durissimis videas expolitum, marmorum iuncturas venas dicas esse genitales, ubi dum falluntur oculi, laus probatur crevisse miraculis.

what shall we say of the rush-like procerity of the columns? that those most lofty masses of the structures are held as if by certain upright spear-shafts, and, under such evenness, are hollowed with concave channels (flutings), so that you would judge them rather to have been poured, deeming it done in wax, which you see polished by very hard metals; that you would call the joints of the marbles natural (natal) veins—where, while the eyes are deceived, praise is proved to have grown to the level of marvels.

[4] Ferunt prisci saeculi narratores fabricarum septem tantum terris adtributa miracula: Ephesi Dianae templum: regis Mausoli pulcherrimum monumentum, a quo et mausolea dicta sunt: Rhodi solis aeneum signum, quod colossus vocatur: Iovis Olympici simulacrum, quod Phidias primus artificum summa elegantia ebore auroque formavit: Cyri Medorum regis domus, quam Memnon arte prodiga illigatis auro lapidibus fabricavit: Babyloniae muri, quos Samiramis regina latere cocto sulpure ferroque construxit: pyramides in Aegypto, quarum in suo statu se umbra consumens ultra constructionis spatia nulla parte respicitur.

[4] The narrators of the ancient age report that only seven wonders have been attributed to the lands: at Ephesus the temple of Diana: the most beautiful monument of King Mausolus, from which also mausolea are named: at Rhodes the bronze statue of the Sun, which is called the Colossus: the image of Olympian Jove, which Phidias, first among craftsmen, with the highest elegance fashioned in ivory and gold: the house of Cyrus, king of the Medes, which Memnon, with prodigal art, built with stones bound with gold: the walls of Babylon, which Queen Samiramis constructed of baked brick, with sulfur and iron: the pyramids in Egypt, whose shadow, consuming itself in their own standing, is in no part seen to extend beyond the spaces of their construction.

[5] Sed quis illa ulterius praecipua putabit, cum in una urbe tot stupenda conspexerit? habuerunt honorem, quia praecesserunt tempore et in rudi saeculo quicquid emersisset novum, per ora hominum iure ferebatur eximium. nunc autem potest esse veridicum, si universa Roma dicatur esse miraculum.

[5] But who will think those things further preeminent, when he has beheld so many stupendous things in a single city? They had their honor, because they preceded in time; and in a rude age, whatever new thing had emerged was, by right, carried on the lips of men as exceptional. Now, however, it can be veridical, if the whole of Rome is said to be a miracle.

quapropter talia virum peritissimum suscipere decet, ne inter illa nimis ingeniosa priscorum ipse videatur esse metallicus et intellegere non possit, quae in illis artifex antiquitas, ut sentirentur, effecit. et ideo det operam libris, antiquorum instructionibus vacet, ne quid ab illis sciat minus in quorum locum cognoscitur subrogatus.

Wherefore it befits a most expert man to undertake such things, lest amid those exceedingly ingenious works of the ancients he himself seem a metallurgist and be unable to understand what craftsman Antiquity contrived in them, so that they might be perceived. And therefore let him devote effort to books, let him be at leisure for the instructions of the ancients, lest he know anything less than those in whose place he is understood to have been substituted.

XVI. FORMULA DE COMITE INSULAE CURITANAE ET CELSINAE.

16. FORMULA CONCERNING THE COUNT OF THE ISLAND OF CURITANA AND CELSINA.

[1] Constat plerumque bene posse agi, ubi non defuerit persona monitoris. omnia enim sine priore confusa sunt et dum unusquisque iuxta voluntatem suam cogitat vivere, regulam cognoscitur omittere disciplinae. itaque antiquae consuetudinis morem secuti Curitanae et Celsinae insulis te iudicem per illam indictionem nostra cedit auctoritas.

[1] It is agreed for the most part that things can be well managed where the persona of a monitor has not been lacking. For everything without a prior is in confusion, and while each person thinks to live according to his own will, he is known to omit the rule of discipline. Therefore, following the mores of ancient consuetude, to the islands of Curitana and Celsina our authority assigns you as judge for that Indiction.

[2] Iustum est enim ut qui a reliquorum hominum sunt conversatione divisi, ad habitationes corum vadat qui eos probabili ratione componat, ne quaedam sit necessitas iniustitiae communes actus longe positos ignorasse. habetis igitur, supra dicti, qui inter vos emergentes causas et audire debeat et finire. et si quid etiam a nostra fuerit pietate decretum eodem commonente peragite, quia erroribus locus tollitur, quando vobis cui debeatis observare declaratur.

[2] For it is just that, since they are divided from the conversation of the rest of men, he should go to their habitations who may compose them by probable reason, lest there be a kind of necessity of injustice from having been ignorant of common acts placed far away. You have, therefore, you above-named, one who ought both to hear and to finish the causes emerging among you. And if anything also has been decreed by our piety, carry it through with the same one admonishing, because the place for errors is removed when it is declared to you whom you ought to observe.

quem credimus ita bonis actibus studere, ut augmenta nostrae gratiae possit accipere. necesse est enim ut a nobis remunerationem sumat, si vobis quae sunt profutura disponat.

whom we believe to be so devoted to good acts that he can receive augmentations of our favor. For it is necessary that he take remuneration from us, if he arranges for you the things which are going to be profitable.

XVII. FORMULA DE PRAEPOSITO CALCIS.

17. FORMULA CONCERNING THE PROVOST OF LIME.

[1] Gloriosum opus est servienti unde Romana civitas probatur ornari, dum tantum quis apud nos proficit quantum pracdictae Urbi proprio labore contulerit. dubium non est coctilem calcem, quae est nivibus concolor, spongiis levior, instrumentum esse maximum fabricarum. haec quantum ignis adustione dissolvitur, tantum exinde parietum firmitas roboratur: petra solubilis, saxea mollities, harenacius lapis, qui tunc potius accenditur, quando aquis copiosissimis irrigatur: sine quo nec saxa fixa sunt nec harenarum minuta solidantur.

[1] It is a glorious work for the one serving, whereby the Roman commonwealth is proved to be adorned, since anyone advances with us just as much as he has contributed to the aforesaid City by his own toil. There is no doubt that burnt lime, which is concolor with snows, lighter than sponges, is the greatest instrument of constructions. The more this is loosened by the burning of fire, by so much thereafter the firmness of walls is strengthened: a soluble stone, a rocky softness, an arenaceous stone, which is then rather kindled when it is irrigated with most copious waters—without which neither are the stones fixed nor are the minute particles of sand solidified.

et ideo maius studium meretur accipere, quod primum locum in Romanis moenibus noscitur optinere.

and therefore it deserves to receive greater diligence, because it is known to hold the first place in the Roman walls.

[2] Quocirca industriam tuam multorum sermone celebratam ad coctionem distributionemque calcis ab indictione illa nostra praeponit auctoritas, ut tam publicis quam privatis fabricis abunde procurata sufficiat et ad aedificandum cunctorum animi concitentur, dum viderint paratum esse quod quaeritur. privilegia vero loci tui nostris iussionibus rationabiliter vindicabis, ut maiora mereri possis, si bene tibi delegata compleveris.

[2] Wherefore our authority, your industry having been celebrated by the discourse of many, appoints you over the calcination and distribution of lime as of that our indiction, so that for both public and private works, being amply procured, it may suffice, and the minds of all may be stirred to build, when they see that what is sought is ready. The privileges, indeed, of your place you will reasonably vindicate by our mandates, so that you may be able to merit greater things, if you shall have well completed the things delegated to you.

XVIII. FORMULA DE ARMIFACTORIBUS.

18. FORMULA CONCERNING ARMS-MAKERS.

[1] Considera quid suscipis, et intellegis locum te dare non debere peccatis. arma enim bene construere hoc est salutem velle omnium custodire, quia prima facie ipsis terretur inimicus et incipit animo cedere, si se cognoscit similia non habere. atque ideo ab indictione illa militibus te at fabris armorum, invitati morum tuorum opinione, praefecimus, ut tale opus ab artificibus exigas, quale nobis placere posse cognoscis.

[1] Consider what you undertake, and you understand that you ought not to give place to sins. For to construct arms well is to desire to guard the safety of all, because at first sight the enemy is terrified by them and begins to yield in spirit, if he recognizes that he does not have similar [arms]. And therefore by that indiction we have set you over the soldiers and the makers of arms, invited by the opinion of your morals, so that you may exact from the artificers such work as you know can be able to please us.

securitas te nostrae non inducat absentiae. quicquid feceris nos videmus. age qui usu ipso subtilissima perquisitionis errores artificum possumus prima fronte deprehendere et laudabiliter operata iudicare.

Let the security of our absence not induce you. Whatever you do, we see. Come now, we who by experience itself can at first glance detect errors of the artificers, most subtle to investigation, and judge the things wrought laudably.

[2] Vide ergo qua diligentia, quo studio faciendum est quod ad nostrum venturum constat examen. age itaque ut nulla te venalitas, nulla culpa demergat, quia veniale esse non potest quod in tali causa delinquitur, ne inde puniaris de qua parte peccaveris. opus quod mortem generat et salutem, interitus peccantium, custodia bonorum, contra improbos necessarium semper auxilium.

[2] See then with what diligence, with what zeal the thing must be done which is certain to come to our examination. Do, therefore, that no venality, no culpability drown you, since what is transgressed in such a cause cannot be venial, lest you be punished from that side in which you have sinned. A work that generates death and salvation, the destruction of sinners, the guardianship of the good, a help always necessary against the wicked.

hoc primum Phoroneus Iunoni dicitur obtulisse, ut inventum suum numinis, ut putabant, auspicio consecraret. haec in bello necessaria, in pace decora sunt: haec denique imbecilles fragilesque mortales cunctis beluis efficiunt fortiores.

This, first, Phoroneus is said to have offered to Juno, so that he might consecrate his discovery by the auspice of the numen, as they thought. These things are necessary in war, decorous in peace: these, finally, make feeble and fragile mortals stronger than all beasts.

XVIIII. FORMULA AD PPO DE ARMIFACTORIBUS.

19. FORMULA TO THE PPO CONCERNING ARMS-MAKERS.

[1] Multorum insinuatione comperimus illum probis moribus institutum commissa sibi posse fideliter expedire. idcirco illustris magnitudo vestra nos eum elegisse cognoscat, ut et militibus praesit secundum morem pristinum et artificibus iubere possit armorum, quatenus consuetudines suas sic eleganter adimpleant, ut nulla in eis inveniri possit offensio. quia licet ubique culpa laedat, hic tamen graviter percutit, si bellorum instrumenta neglexerit.

[1] By the insinuation of many we have found out that he, instituted in upright morals, is able faithfully to expedite the things committed to him. Therefore let your Illustrious Magnitude know that we have chosen him, both that he may preside over the soldiers according to the former custom and that he may be able to command the artificers of arms, to the end that they may thus elegantly fulfill their usages, so that no offense can be found in them. For although fault hurts everywhere, here nevertheless it strikes grievously, if he should neglect the instruments of wars.

proditionis quippe instar est exercitui subtrahere quod eum constat armare. quibus consuetudines suas providentia vestra deputabit, ut, dum illis excusatio victualium tollitur, necessaria vivacius exigantur.

for it is in the likeness of treason to withdraw from the army what is known to arm it. to whom your providence will assign their customary allowances, so that, while the excuse of victuals is taken away from them, the necessaries may be demanded more vigorously.

XX. FORMULA BINORUM ET TERNORUM, SI PER IUDICEM AGANTUR.

20. FORMULA OF DOUBLES AND TRIPLES, IF THEY ARE CONDUCTED THROUGH A JUDGE.

[1] Ad genium dignitatis tuae credimus pertinere, si competentia tibi videamur iniungere, quia tanto quis gratior redditur, quanto parendi causas amplius suscepisse monstratur. et ideo binorum et ternorum titulos, quos a provincialibus exigi prisca decrevit auctoritas, per illam indictionem, officio tuo procurante, ad scrinia comitis sacrarum largitionum transmittere maturabis, ita ut omnis quantitas intra kal. Martiarum diem sollemniter impleatur.

[1] We believe it pertains to the spirit of your dignity if we seem to enjoin upon you things befitting you, since one is rendered the more gracious the more he is shown to have undertaken reasons for obeying. And therefore the titles of the “pairs” and “threes,” which ancient authority decreed to be exacted from the provincials, you will hasten, your office procuring it, to transmit during that indiction to the scrinia of the Count of the Sacred Largesses, so that the whole amount may be solemnly completed by the Kalends of March (March 1).

ne de proprio reddere cogaris quod procurare neglexeris. tuam enim tetigisset iniuriam, si alter eos titulos videretur exigere, quos ad te praeceperunt leges sacratissimae pertinere.

lest you be compelled to render from your own what you have neglected to procure. For it would have touched upon an injury to you, if another should seem to exact those titles, which the most sacred laws have prescribed to pertain to you.

XXI. FORMULA BINORUM ET TERNORUM, SI PER OFFICIUM AGANTUR.

21. FORMULA OF THE TWOS AND THREES, IF THEY ARE HANDLED THROUGH THE OFFICE.

[1] Quamvis prisca consuetudo binorum et ternorum exactionem ad te iusserit pertinere, tamen, ne te multiplex occupatio praegravaret et impedimenta tibi faceret sollicitudo geminata, illum et illum scriniarios officii nostri duximus destinandos, ut tibi officioque tuo debeant imminere, quatenus cum eorum solacio intra kal. Martiarum diem ad illustrem virum illum comitem sacrarum largitionum sollemnis quantitas deferatur, ne opinionis publicae reus efficiaris, si largitiones sacras per moram aliquam putaveris esse tardandas. ita ut te excipiendum esse non existimes, quem nos credidimus adiuvandum.

[1] Although ancient custom has ordered that the exaction of the twos and threes pertains to you, nevertheless, lest manifold occupation overburden you and doubled solicitude make impediments for you, we have judged that so-and-so and so-and-so, scriniarii of our office, are to be assigned, that they should attend upon you and your office, to the extent that, with their solace, by the day of the Kalends of March the solemn sum be conveyed to that illustrious man, the Count of the Sacred Largesses, lest you become guilty in public opinion, if you should think that the sacred largesses ought to be slowed by any delay. In such a way that you do not suppose yourself to be excepted—you whom we believed ought to be aided.

nam si quid minus fuerit quam oportebat illatum, de tuis hoc noveris facultatibus eruendum.

for if anything shall have been brought in less than was proper, you should know this is to be extracted from your own resources.

XXII. FORMULA COMMONITORII ILLI ET ILLI SCRINIARIIS DE BINIS ET TERNIS.

22. FORMULA OF A COMMONITORIUM TO SO-AND-SO AND SO-AND-SO, SCRINIARIES, ON THE TWOS AND THREES.

[1] Non dubitamus esse gratissimum, quando quis commonetur officium implere susceptum, quia illud est potius grave, si miles vivat otiose, cui quaestus est actio sua, honor principalis iniunctio. similis enim discincto habetur, qui ignobili torpori relinquitur. quapropter per indictionem illam ad illam vos provinciam iubemus accedere: ut cum iudice vel eius officio intra diem kal.

[1] We do not doubt that it is most gratifying, when someone is admonished to fulfill the assumed office, because that is rather grievous, if a soldier lives idle, for whom his action is profit, the principal honor an injunction. For he is held like one ungirded who is abandoned to ignoble torpor. Wherefore, by that indiction to that province we order you to proceed: so that with the judge or his officium within the day of the Kalends.

Martiarum quae de binis et ternis quantitas sollemniter postulatur, ad comitis sacrarum scrinia, postposita dilatione, dirigatis, sic tamen, ut nec aerarium nostrum aliquid minus a consuetudine percipiat nec possessor supra modum professionis exsolvat. et non dubitetis commonitionis nostrae periculum sustinere, si quid actum contra priscum ordinem potuerimus agnoscere.

Send the quantity of the Martiarum, which is solemnly demanded in twos and threes, to the scrinia of the Count of the Sacred Largesses, delay having been set aside; yet in such a way that neither does our treasury receive anything less than is customary, nor does the possessor pay beyond the measure of his profession. And do not hesitate to bear the peril of our admonition, if we are able to recognize that anything has been done against the ancient order.

XXIII. FORMULA VICARII PORTUS.

23. FORMULA OF THE VICAR OF PORTUS.

[1] Beneficia nostra gratiae tuae specialiter damus, si te agere commissa rationabiliter approbemus. nec enim inremuneratus iaces, si et populos peregrinos prudenter excipias et nostrorum commercia moderata aequalitate componas. nam licet ubique sit necessaria prudentia, in hac potius actione videtur accommoda, quando inter duos populos nascuntur semper certamina, nisi fuerit iustitia custodita.

[1] We specially grant our benefactions to your Grace, if we approve that you administer the things committed to you rationally. For you do not lie unrewarded, if you both prudently receive foreign peoples and compose the commerce of our people with moderated equality. For although prudence is necessary everywhere, in this action it appears even more accommodative, since between two peoples contests are always born, unless justice has been kept.

quapropter arte placandi sunt qui mores afferunt simillimos ventis, quorum nisi prius animi temperentur, in contemptum maximum nativa facilitate prosiliunt. qua de re modestiae tuae fama provocati curas illius portus per illam indictionem te habere censemus, ut omnia ad tuum titulum pertinentia sic agas, quemadmodum ad meliora pervenias. in parvis enim discitur, cui potiora praestentur.

Wherefore, those who bring habits most similar to the winds must be soothed by the art of placating; unless their minds are first tempered, by their native facileness they leap forth into the utmost contempt. On which account, provoked by the fame of your modesty, we judge that you should hold the cares of that port for that indiction, so that you may conduct all things pertaining to your title in such a way as to come to better things. For in small matters it is learned to whom greater things should be presented.

XXIIII. FORMULA PRINCIPIS DALMATIARUM.

24. FORMULA OF THE PRINCE OF THE DALMATIANS.

[1] Magna inter collegas suos praerogativa decoratur, quisquis gerit militiam nomine principatus. cognoscitur enim locum agere primarium: quando in rebus humanis magna pars nominum asserit excellentiam dignitatum. hoc etiam tui loci probatur exemplo, sine quo nec secretarii praestatur accessus nec postulationis pompa peragitur, totusque ille iudicis genius ita tibi legibus probatur creditus, ut sine te nequeat esse perfectus.

[1] Great prerogative among his colleagues adorns whoever bears service under the title of the principate. For he is recognized to hold a primary place: since in human affairs a great part of names asserts the excellence of dignities. This too is proved by the example of your post, without which neither is access to the secretariat afforded nor is the pomp of petition carried through, and the whole genius of the judge is thus by the laws shown to be entrusted to you, so that without you it cannot be perfect.

[2] Comiti quidem provinciarum potestas data est, sed tibi iudex ipse commissus est. tu vitem tenes improbis minantem: tu disciplinam inter iura custodis: tibi insolentiam perorantis fas est distringere, quam praesuli non licet vindicare: gesta quin etiam totius actus te subscribente complentur et consensus tuus quaeritur, postquam voluntas iudicis explicatur. age, ut qui talibus praeponeris, ea implesse merito sentiaris.

[2] To the Count of the provinces power has indeed been given, but to you the judge himself has been entrusted. You hold the vine-staff menacing the wicked: you guard discipline amid the laws: it is lawful for you to constrain the insolence of the pleader, which it is not permitted the presiding magistrate to punish: nay, even the records of the whole proceeding are completed with you subscribing, and your assent is sought after the will of the judge has been unfolded. Do so, so that you who are set over such matters may deservedly be thought to have fulfilled them.

[3] Itaque per indictionem illam ad illam te provinciam iubemus excurrere, ut mixtus iudicis officio competentia loco tuo peragas et qui princeps a nobis egrederis, nullis vilitatibus accuseris. reverentissimum enim te omnibus facis, si quod de nomine tuo creditur, et in moribus sentiatur.

[3] And so, by that indiction we order you to hasten out to that province, so that, joined with the judge’s office, you may carry out the things appropriate to your place, and that you, who go forth from us as princeps, may not be accused of any vilenesses. For you make yourself most reverend to all, if what is believed on the strength of your name is also felt in your morals.

XXV. FORMULA EPISTULAE, QUAE AD COMMENDANDOS PRINCIPES COMITI DESTINATUR.

25. FORMULA OF A LETTER, WHICH IS ADDRESSED TO THE COUNT FOR RECOMMENDING PRINCES.

[1] Invitat nos consuetudo sollemnis et vobis ornatum officii dirigere et pristinos ordines excubantium custodire. nostra enim laus est, si vos militia Romana comitetur, quando talibus ministris potestis agere, quod videtur priscis sanctionibus convenire. sic enim Gothos nostros deo iuvante produximus, ut et armis sint instructi et acquitate compositi.

[1] A solemn custom invites us both to direct to you the adornment of office and to preserve the pristine orders of those keeping watch. For it is our praise if the Roman militia accompanies you, since with such ministers you are able to do what seems to agree with ancient sanctions. For thus have we brought forth our Goths, with God helping, that they be both equipped with arms and composed by equity.

hoc est, quod reliquae gentes habere non possunt: hoc est, quod vos efficit singulares, si assueti bellis videamini legibus vivere cum Romanis.

this is what the remaining nations cannot have: this is what makes you singular, if, accustomed to wars, you seem to live by laws with the Romans.

[2] Quapropter ex officio nostro illum atque illum ad vos credidimus esse dirigendos, ut secundum priscam consuetudinem qui tuis iussionibus obsecundant eos rationabili debeat antiquitate moderari. cui gratiam tuam in conservandis annonis et consuetudinibus suis ex nostra iussione praestabis. debet enim a te diligi, qui a nobis meruit destinari.

[2] Wherefore, from our office we have judged that this man and that man ought to be directed to you, so that, according to ancient custom, you ought to govern by reasonable antiquity those who comply with your commands. To him you will extend your favor, by our order, in safeguarding rations and their own usages. For he ought to be cherished by you, who has deserved to be designated by us.

XXVI. FORMULA COMITIVAE DIVERSARUM CIVITATUM.

26. FORMULA OF THE COMITIVA OF DIVERSE CITIES.

[1] Saeculi huius honor humanae mentis est manifesta probatio, quia libertas animi voluntatem propriam semper ostendit, dum se contemnit occulere, qui sibi alios cognoverit subiacere. sed humanae mentis felix illa condicio est, quae arbitrium provectionis suae intra terminum moderationis includit et sic peragit dignitatis brevissimum spatium, ut universis temporibus reddatur acceptus.

[1] The honor of this age is a manifest proof of the human mind, because the liberty of spirit always displays its own will, while he disdains to hide himself who has recognized that others are subject to him. But that is the fortunate condition of the human mind, which encloses the discretion of its own promotion within the boundary of moderation, and thus carries through the very brief span of dignity, that it is rendered acceptable for all times.

[2] Quapropter interdum, iudices, ad blanda descendite. laboriosum quidem, sed non est impossibile iustitiam suadere mortalibus, quam ita cunctorum sensibus beneficium divinitatis attribuit, ut et qui nesciunt iura rationem tamen veritatis agnoscant. necesse est enim, ut, quod a natura conceditur, summonente iterum eadem suaviter audiatur.

[2] Wherefore at times, judges, descend to the soothing. Laborious indeed, but it is not impossible to persuade mortals to justice, which the beneficence of divinity has so attributed to the senses of all that even those who do not know the laws nevertheless recognize the rationale of truth. For it is necessary that what is conceded by nature, when the same summons again, be heard sweetly.

et ideo non laboretis populis imponere quod eos constat et propria voluntate sentire. facile enim sequuntur vestigia verbi alieni, qui se possunt monitore compelli.

and therefore do not labor to impose upon peoples what it is evident that they also feel by their own volition. for they easily follow the footsteps of another’s word, who can be compelled by a monitor.

[3] Propterea per indictionem illam in illa civitate comitivae honorem secundi ordinis tibi propitia divinitate largimur, ut et cives commissos aequitate regas et publicarum ordinationum iussiones constanter adimpleas, quatenus tibi meliora praestemus, quando te probabiliter egisse praesentia senserimus.

[3] Therefore, through that indiction in that city we, with Divinity propitious, bestow upon you the honor of the comitiva of the second order, so that you may rule with equity the citizens committed to you and steadfastly fulfill the injunctions of public ordinations, to the end that we may furnish better things to you when we shall have perceived that you have conducted yourself commendably in present affairs.

XXVII. FORMULA HONORATIS POSSESSORIBUS ET CURIALIBUS DE COMITIVA SUPRA SCRIPTA.

27. FORMULA FOR HONORED LANDHOLDERS AND CURIALS CONCERNING THE ABOVE-WRITTEN COMITIVA.

[1] Utile est unum semper eligere, cui reliqui debeant oboedire, quia, si voluntas diversorum vaga relinquitur, confusio culparum amica generatur. itaque civitatis vestrae comitivam per indictionem illam nos illi largitos fuisse noveritis, cui saluberrimam parientiam commodate, ut causis vestris ferat remedium, et iussionibus publicis procuret effectum: scituri quod, si quis se probabili devotione tractaverit, similia de nostris sensibus haud irrite postulabit.

[1] It is useful always to choose one, whom the rest ought to obey, because, if the will of diverse persons is left wandering, a friendly confusion of faults is generated. and so know that we have granted the comitiva of your city by that Indiction to him, to whom lend a most healthful obedience, that he may bring remedy to your causes and procure effect for the public injunctions: you are to know that, if anyone shall have conducted himself with probable devotion, he will by no means ask in vain for similar things from our sentiments.

XXVIII. FORMULA PRINCIPIBUS MILITUM COMITIVAE S(UPRA) S(CRIPTAE).

28. FORMULA FOR THE COMMANDERS OF THE SOLDIERS OF THE ABOVE-WRITTEN RETINUE.

[1] Gratum vobis esse confidimus, quando militiae vestrae iudices destinamus, quia tunc ordines vestros agitis, quotiens vobis non defuerit praesentia iudicantis. relativa ista intellectui sunt nomina: si praesulem ademeris, militem non relinquis: apparitio enim tollitur, quotiens qui iubere poterat abrogatur. vobis ergo actum cedimus, dum ad vos dirigimus dignitates et tam diu vos militare facimus, donec iudices destinamus: nec istud leve credatis beneficium, ut cum vos sitis obsequium, vobis occurrat electio cognitorum.

[1] We are confident that it is pleasing to you when we assign judges to your militia, because then you discharge your orders whenever the presence of the judging authority does not fail you. These names are relative terms: if you take away the presider (praesul), you do not leave the soldier; for the attendance is removed whenever he who could command is abrogated. To you, therefore, we yield the act, while we direct dignities toward you, and we make you do military service for so long as we appoint judges. Nor should you believe this a light beneficium, that, since you are the obsequium, the choice of cognitors comes to meet you.

[2] Et ideo per indictionem illam illum comitem militiae vestrae cognoscite destinatum. quem ita acturum esse putamus tam in causis publicis quam privatis, ut cum laus optata comitetur. cui devotionem iustissimam commodantes in his quae vobis praeceperit sollemniter oboedite, quia reverentiam nostram honoratam esse credimus, si bene habitos nostros iudices sentiamus.

[2] And therefore by that Indiction recognize that that count of your soldiery has been designated. whom we think will act in such a way both in public and in private causes that desired praise may accompany. to whom, proffering the most just devotion, solemnly obey in the things which he shall have prescribed to you, because we believe our reverence to be honored, if we perceive our judges to be well regarded.

XXVIIII. FORMULA DE CUSTODIENDIS PORTIS CIVITATUM.

29. FORMULA FOR THE GUARDING OF THE GATES OF THE CITIES.

[1] Nullatenus de eius fide dubitatur qui ad custodiam civitatis eligitur, quia probatae conscientiae constat esse credendum quod fuerit pro securitate multorum. atque ideo curam portae illius civitatis nostra tibi auctoritate concedimus, ut et improborum non pateat adventibus et bonorum non retardet accessus. nam si porta semper obserata sit, instar est carceris: si iterum iugiter pandatur, murorum nil proderit habere munimina.

[1] By no means is there doubt about the fidelity of him who is chosen for the guarding of the city, because it is agreed that, since the matter is for the security of many, confidence must be placed in a conscience that has been proved. And therefore we grant to you by our authority the care of that city’s gate, so that it may not lie open to the advents of the wicked and may not retard the access of the good. For if the gate be always barred, it is in the likeness of a prison; if, on the other hand, it be thrown open continually, it will profit nothing to have the muniments of the walls.

[2] Sit ergo utrumque moderatum, ut et custodiae nocturnae satisfacias et incompetenter eam claudere non praesumas. eris nimirum via civium et ingressus mercium singularum, amicus scilicet copiae quam optas intrare. stude ergo cum alimoniis invitare venientes.

[2] Let, therefore, both be kept in moderation, so that you both satisfy the nocturnal custody and do not presume to close it inappropriately. you will, to be sure, be the way of the citizens and the ingress of merchandise of several kinds, a friend, namely, to the supply which you desire to enter. strive, therefore, to invite those coming with provisions.

non tibi quod despiciatur est creditum. quibusdam faucibus civitatis praeponeris, qui ingredientibus victualibus praeesse monstraris. quod te oportet sine querela perficere, ut in parvis agnoscere possimus, cui maiora credere debeamus.

It is not something to be despised that has been entrusted to you. You are set over certain throats of the city, you are shown to preside over the victuals that are entering. This you ought to accomplish without complaint, so that in small things we may recognize to whom we ought to entrust greater things.

XXX. FORMULA TRIBUNATUS PROVINCIARUM.

30. FORMULA OF THE TRIBUNATE OF THE PROVINCES.

[1] Aequitati convenit ut unus quisque ad fructum militiae emenso tempore debeat pervenire et laboris recipiat praemium pro compensatione meritorum. unde quia priscae consuetudinis ratio persuadet, ut a nobis debeat designari, qui vobis tribunus esse mereatur, ideoque hac auctoritate censemus, ut ille, quem locus videtur exposcere, vobis in supradicto honore praesideat, quatenus, cum ad tempus venerit constitutum, optato honore potiatur. divina sunt ista iudicia, non humana, ut quem superna ad debitum tempus voluerunt perducere, merito videatur et laboris sui praemia suscepisse.

[1] It befits equity that each person, with the time elapsed, ought to arrive at the fruit of military service and receive the reward of labor by way of compensation for merits. Whence, since the reason of ancient custom persuades that he ought to be designated by us who deserves to be your tribune, therefore by this authority we decree that he whom the place seems to demand shall preside over you in the above-said honor, to the end that, when the constituted time shall have come, he may obtain the desired honor. These judgments are divine, not human, such that he whom the supernal powers have willed to lead forward to the due time may deservedly seem also to have received the rewards of his labor.

[2] Excubiarum suarum igitur competentia privilegia consequatur, quia nullum emolumento consueto fraudari desideramus, quem sine culpis ad primatum venisse cognoscimus. quapropter illi pro utilitate publica disponenti modis omnibus oboedite, quoniam partem iudicis habent priores, quando ab ipsis requiritur, si quid a vobis insolentius excedatur.

[2] Let him therefore obtain the privileges competent to his watch‑duties, since we do not desire anyone to be defrauded of the customary emolument whom we recognize to have come to the primacy without faults. Wherefore obey in all ways him who is disposing for the public utility, since the superiors have a share in judicial authority, when it is required by them, if anything is overstepped by you with insolence.

XXXI. FORMULA PRINCIPATUS IN URBE ROMA.

31. FORMULA OF THE PRINCIPATE IN THE CITY OF ROME.

[1] Cum in urbo Roma plurima fieri censeamus et necesse sit partem ibi esse comitiaci officii, ut utilitates publicae videantur impleri, more nostro prospeximus, ut, quia principem cardinalem obsequiis nostris deesse non patimur, tu eius locum vicarii nomine in urbe Roma sollemniter debeas continere, quatenus et ille primates sui laboribus perfruatur et tu in alterius honore possis discere, quod in tuo debeas feliciter exhibere.

[1] Since in the city of Rome we judge that very many things are to be done, and it is necessary that part of the comital office be there, so that the public advantages may appear to be fulfilled, according to our custom we have provided that, since we do not allow the principal cardinal to be lacking to our services, you should solemnly hold his place under the name of vicar in the city of Rome, to the end that both he may enjoy the labors of his primacy and you, in another’s honor, may be able to learn what you ought happily to exhibit in your own.

[2] Si quos etiam comitiacorum ad comitatum iudicaveris esse dirigendos consulens obsequio nostro, tuo subiacebit arbitrio. eos autem, quos retinendos putaveris, indulta securitate potientur, ita tamen, ut vicissim omnia modereris, quatenus nec excubantes continuus labor atterat nec segnes iterum rubigo otii fugienda consumat.

[2] If you also judge that any of the comitatus personnel are to be directed to the comitatus, with consideration for our attendance, it shall be subject to your discretion. those, however, whom you think should be retained will enjoy the security granted by indult—yet in such a way that you moderate all things in turn, so that neither continuous labor wears down those keeping watch, nor the sluggish are again consumed by the rust of idleness that is to be fled.

XXXII. FORMULA QUA MONETA COMMITTITUR.

32. FORMULA BY WHICH THE MINT IS ENTRUSTED.

[1] Omnis quidem utilitas publica fideli debet actione compleri, quia totum vitiosum geritur, ubi conscientiae puritas non habetur: tamen omnino monetae debet integritas quaeri, ubi et vultus noster imprimitur et generalis utilitas invenitur. nam quid erit tutum, si in nostra peccetur effigie, et quam subiectus corde venerari debet, manus sacrilega violare festinet? additur quod venalitas cuncta dissolvitur, si victualia metalla vitiantur, quando necesse est respui quod in mercimoniis corruptum videtur offerri.

[1] Every public utility ought indeed to be fulfilled by faithful action, because the whole is conducted as faulty where purity of conscience is not held; nevertheless, the integrity of the coinage must especially be sought, where both our visage is imprinted and the general utility is found. For what will be safe, if sin is committed against our effigy, and that which the subject ought to venerate in his heart does a sacrilegious hand hasten to violate? It is further added that the entire market is dissolved if the victual metals are debased, since it becomes necessary to reject what seems to be offered in wares as corrupted.

quis ergo patiatur unius esse commodum dispendia scelesta cunctorum, ut detestabile vitium venire possit ad pretium?

Who, then, will suffer the wicked losses of all to be the gain of one, so that a detestable vice may come to a price?

[2] Sit mundum quod ad formam nostrae serenitatis adducitur: claritas regia nil admittit infectum. nam si vultus cuiuslibet sincero colore depingitur, multo iustius metallorum puritate principalis gratia custoditur. auri flamma nulla iniuria permixtionis albescat, argenti color gratia candoris arrideat, aeris rubor in nativa qualitate permaneat.

[2] Let what is brought to the form of our Serenity be clean: royal clarity admits nothing tainted. For if the countenance of anyone is painted with a sincere color, much more justly is princely grace guarded by the purity of metals. Let the flame of gold not whiten by any wrong of commixture, let the color of silver smile with the grace of candor, let the redness of bronze remain in its native quality.

nam si unum laedere legibus putatur esse damnandum, quid ille mereri poterit, qui in tanta hominum numerositate peccaverit?

for if to harm one is thought by the laws to be condemned, what will that man be able to merit, who has sinned amid so great a number of men?

[3] Pondus quin etiam constitutum denariis praecipimus debere servari, qui olim penso quam numero vendebantur: unde verborum vocabula competenter ab origine trahens compendium et dispendium pulchre vocitavit antiquitas. pecunia enim a pecudis tergo nominata Gallis auctoribus sine aliquo adhuc signo ad metalla translata est. quam non sinimus faeculenta permixtione fieri contemptibilem, ne iterum in antiquam cognoscatur redire vilitatem.

[3] Moreover, we command that the established weight for denarii be preserved, which in former times were sold by weight rather than by number; whence Antiquity, aptly deriving the very terms from their origin, elegantly named compendium and dispendium. For pecunia, named from the back of a beast, on the authority of the Gauls, was transferred to the metals as yet without any sign. This we do not permit to be made contemptible by a feculent admixture, lest it be recognized to be returning again to its ancient cheapness.

[4] Proinde te, cuius nobis laudata est integritas actionis, ab illa indictione per iuge quinquennium monetae curam habere praecipimus, quam Servius rex in aere primum inpressisse perhibetur: ita ut tuo periculo non dubites quaeri, si quid in illa fraudis potuerit inveniri. nam sicut casus asperos subibis, si quid fortasse deliqueris, ita inremuneratum non derelinquimus, si te egisse inculpabiliter senserimus.

[4] Accordingly, you, whose integrity of action has been praised by us, we command to have the care of the mint, from that indiction, for an unbroken quinquennium, which King Servius is held to have first impressed in bronze: so that you may not doubt that it will be investigated at your peril, if anything of fraud can be found in it. For just as you will undergo harsh contingencies, if perhaps you should have transgressed, so we do not leave it unremunerated, if we perceive that you have acted inculpably.

XXXIII. FORMULA TRACTORIAE LEGATORUM DIVERSARUM GENTIUM.

33. FORMULA OF A TRACTORIA FOR THE ENVOYS OF VARIOUS NATIONS.

[1] Quis dubitet utilitatis publicae interesse rationem, ut, quibus nos constat dona conferre, nullam videantur itineris iniuriam sustinere, quando nec vobis morarum detrimenta faciunt et illi se bene habitos fuisse cognoscunt? atque ideo humanitatem subter annexam vel ad equos capitum definitum illius gentis legatis sine aliqua tarditate praestabitis, quatenus ad sedes suas inremunerati non debeant pervenire, quia festinantibus gratior est celeritas in redeundo quam quaelibet munerum magnitudo.

[1] Who would doubt that the reckoning pertains to public utility, namely that those on whom it is agreed we confer gifts should seem to sustain no injury of the journey, since they neither cause you the detriments of delays and they recognize that they have been well handled? And therefore you will furnish, without any tardity, the humanity appended below, or horses for a defined headcount, to the legates of that nation, so that they ought not to reach their seats unrecompensed; for to those hastening, celerity in returning is more pleasing than any magnitude of gifts.

XXXIIII. FORMULA EVOCATORIAE, QUAM PRINCEPS MOTU SUO DIRIGIT.

34. FORM OF A SUMMONS, WHICH THE PRINCE DIRECTS OF HIS OWN MOTION.

[1] Non dubitamus ultronea grate suscipi, quae in locum muneris solent postulata conferri, quia domini recordatio concedit semper augmenta nec possunt esse principis vacua gratificationis indicia. quapropter ad comitatum nostrum iussis te praesentibus evocamus, ut non mediocri gaudio perfruaris.

[1] We do not doubt that voluntary offerings are gratefully received, which are wont, when requested, to be bestowed in place of a gift, since the remembrance of the lord ever grants augmentations, nor can the tokens of a prince’s gratification be empty. wherefore, by these present commands, we summon you to our comitatus, that you may enjoy no mediocre joy.

[2] Et ideo otii delectatione postposita ad illam diem ad urbem illam venire depropera, ut et tibi aspectum nostrum gratum fuisse iudicemus, cum te festinasse cognoscimus. desiderat enim aula nostra praesentiam bonorum, dum nescio quo pacto quicquid regali sapientiae gratum esse cognoscitur, et divino iudicio comprobatur, quia ille qui corda nostra regit, ipse etiam quod debeamus sentire concedit.

[2] And therefore, with the delectation of leisure set aside, hasten to come on that day to that city, so that we may also judge that our aspect has been pleasing to you, when we learn that you have hastened. For our court desires the presence of the good, since, I know not by what manner, whatever is recognized to be pleasing to regal sapience is also approved by divine judgment, because he who rules our hearts, he himself also grants what we ought to feel.

XXXV. FORMULA EVOCATORIAE, QUAE PETENTI CONCEDITUR.

35. EVOCATORY FORMULA, WHICH IS GRANTED TO THE PETITIONER.

[1] Manifestatio est conscientiae bonae praesentiam iusti principis expetisse, quam solus ille desiderare potest, qui de magna mentis puritate confidit. aspectum solis nisi clara lumina non requirunt, quia illi tantum possunt rutilantes pati radios, quos constat oculos habere purissimos. sic praesentiam principis ambiunt qui de cordis sinceritate praesumunt.

[1] It is a manifestation of a good conscience to have sought the presence of a just prince, which only he can desire who is confident of great purity of mind. None save clear eyes seek the aspect of the sun, because only they can endure the glittering rays who are known to have the purest eyes. Thus those court the presence of the prince who presume upon the sincerity of the heart.

[2] Hinc est quod veniendi tibi ad comitatum fiduciam grata mente largimur, ne honor evocationis, qui pro vestra gloria constat inventus, ad iniuriam convertatur, dum aliqua fuerit dilatione tardatus. invitamus quin immo desideria venientum, quia inde magis crescimus, si viros nobiles nostris obsequiis aggregamus.

[2] Hence it is that we, with a grateful mind, bestow upon you the confidence of coming to the comitatus, lest the honor of evocation—which is acknowledged to have been instituted for your glory—be turned into an injury, while it should be retarded by some dilation. We invite, nay rather, we court the desires of those who come, because we grow the more thereby, if we aggregate noble men to our services.

XXXVI. FORMULA COMMEATALIS.

36. FURLOUGH FORMULA.

[1] Nemo dubitat homines suavi varietate recreari, quia in continuatione rerum magnum mentibus constat esse fastidium. dulcedo mellis, si assidue sumatur, horrescit: serena ipsa, quamvis magnopere desiderentur, iugiter adepta sordescunt: non immerito, quia dum sit homo commutabilis, naturae suae desiderat habere qualitates.

[1] No one doubts that men are refreshed by a pleasant variety, since in the continuation of things it is agreed there is great distaste in minds. The sweetness of honey, if it be taken assiduously, is abhorred; the calms themselves, although greatly desired, when unceasingly obtained, grow dull; not without reason, for, since man is changeable, he desires to have the qualities of his nature.

[2] Et ideo festinanti tibi provinciali oblectatione refoveri copiam tot mensuum in supra dicta provincia concedimus immorandi, quia paene reclusus advertitur, cui mutare solum liberum non videtur: ita tamen, ut cum promeritas indutias domino iuvante transegeris, ad urbanas sedes redire festines. nam si taedium est continuatim vivere in urbis celebritate, quanto magis in agris diutina tempora peregisse! libenter ergo damus indutias discedendi, non ut Roma debeat deseri, sed ut amplius commendetur absenti.

[2] And therefore, since you are hastening to be refreshed by provincial oblectation, we grant you the opportunity of remaining for so many months in the aforesaid province, because you are regarded as almost shut-in, to whom it does not seem free to change his soil: yet on this condition, that when you have spent your merited indutiae (leave), with the Lord helping, you hasten to return to the urban seats. For if it is a tedium to live continuously in the celebrity of the city, how much more to have passed long stretches in the fields! Willingly, therefore, we grant indutiae of departing, not that Rome ought to be deserted, but that she may be the more commended to the absent.

XXXVII. FORMULA SPECTABILITATIS.

37. FORMULA OF SPECTABILITY.

[1] Optamus nobis deo auxiliante subiectos varia dignitatum praerogativa gloriari: desideramus probabile genus hominum inpressa gratia dignitatis ornare, ut laudabilius unus quisque possit vivere, cum se honores reverendos cognoverit accepisse. sic enim et ad virtutis studia decenter ascenditur et a bonis civibus res publica plus amatur. atque ideo te spectabilitatis nitore decoramus, ut sententiam tuam in conventibus publicis spectandam esse cognoscas, cum inter nobiles decorus assederis, ut, si haec praedicabili conversatione tractaveris, in futurum praemiis melioribus augearis.

[1] We desire, with God aiding, that our subjects glory in the various prerogatives of dignities; we wish to adorn a reputable class of men with the impressed grace of dignity, so that each may be able to live more laudably, when he has recognized that he has received reverend honors. For thus there is a seemly ascent to the studies of virtue, and the res publica is more loved by good citizens. And therefore we decorate you with the luster of Spectabilitas, that you may know your judgment to be something to be regarded in public assemblies, when you sit decorous among the nobles; so that, if you handle these things with a praiseworthy conduct, you may in the future be increased with better rewards.

XXXVIII. FORMULA CLARISSIMATUS.

38. FORMULA OF THE CLARISSIMATE.

[1] Constat iucundum esse rerum bonarum saporem et utilem ambitum laudis, qui appetitur per augmenta virtutis. hoc nos studium providae liberalitatis infundimus, ut maior sit cultus morum, dum crescunt desideria praemiorum. clarissimatus igitur honorem, ornamenta iudicii nostri, regia tibi largitur auctoritas, quod praebeat et exactae vitae testimonium et futurae prosperitatis polliceatur augmentum.

[1] It is established that the savor of good things is pleasant, and the useful ambition of praise, which is sought through augmentations of virtue. This zeal of provident liberality we infuse, so that the cultivation of morals may be greater, while the desires for rewards grow. Therefore royal authority bestows upon you the honor of the clarissimate, the ornaments of our judgment, which both furnishes testimony of an exact life and promises an increase of future prosperity.

quapropter nihil iam obscurum agere patiaris, qui clarissimatus dignitate resplendes. grande siquidem vitae testimonium est non tam clarum quam clarissimum dici, quando paene totum de illo optimum creditur qui tanti fulgoris superlativo nomine vocitatur.

Wherefore allow yourself to do nothing obscure any longer, you who are resplendent with the dignity of the Clarissimate. For it is a great testimony of life to be called not so much “clear” as “most clear,” since nearly everything best is believed about him who is called by the superlative name of so great a splendor.

XXXVIIII. FORMULA TUITIONIS.

39. FORMULA OF PROTECTION.

[1] Superfluum quidem videtur tuitionem specialiter a principe petere, cuius est propositi universos communiter vindicare. sed quia securitatem tuam quorundam violentorum exsecranda temeritas inquietat, non piget dolentium querelis ad hanc partem pietatis adduci, ut quod omnibus praestare cupimus, supplicanti potissimum conferamus. atque ideo diversorum te, quemadmodum quereris, dispendiis sauciatum in castra defensionis nostrae clementer excipimus, ut cum adversariis tuis non, ut hactenus, campestri certamine, sed murali videaris protectione contendere.

[1] Superfluous indeed it seems to ask tuition specially from a prince, whose purpose is to vindicate all in common. But because your security is disturbed by the execrable temerity of certain violent men, it does not irk us, moved by the complaints of the grieving, to be led to this part of piety, so that what we desire to furnish to all, we confer most especially upon the suppliant. And therefore you—wounded, as you complain, by the losses inflicted by diverse persons—we graciously receive into the camp of our defense, so that with your adversaries you may seem to contend, not, as hitherto, by a field contest, but by a mural protection.

ita fit ut, truculentis viribus pressus, reddaris auxiliis regalibus exaequatus.

thus it comes to pass that, pressed by truculent forces, you are made equal by royal aids.

[2] Quapropter tuitionem tibi nostri nominis quasi validissimam turrem contra inciviles impetus et conventionalia detrimenta nostra concedit auctoritas: ita tamen, ne, his praesumptionibus sublevatus, civile despicias praebere responsum et tu videaris insolens calcare iura publica, quem primitus detestanda premebat audacia. et quia ministros efficaces nostra debet habere praeceptio nec decet principem loqui quod non videatur posse compleri, praesentis beneficii iussione, adversus Gothos illa, adversus Romanos illa, facile te fides et diligentia custodivit: quia nemo laborat defendere quod timetur offendi, dum praestans dominus fieri formidatur ingratus. fruere igitur nostra clementia: beneficio laetare suscepto.

[2] Wherefore our authority grants to you, of our name, a protection as a most mighty tower against uncivil assaults and conventional detriments: yet in such a way that, lifted up by these presumptions, you do not despise to give a civil response, and you not seem insolent to trample the public laws—you whom at the first detestable audacity was pressing. And because our precept ought to have efficient ministers, nor is it fitting for a prince to speak what does not seem able to be completed, by the injunction of the present beneficium—against the Goths those, against the Romans those—fidelity and diligence have easily kept guard over you: because no one labors to defend what is feared to be offended, while an excellent lord is dreaded to become ungrateful. Enjoy therefore our clemency: rejoice in the beneficium received.

nam si ulterius a quoquam sub incivilitate temptaris, tua de inimicis potius vota complebis.

for if you are further assailed by anyone under incivility, you will rather complete your vows regarding your enemies.

XL. FORMULA DE MATRIMONIO CONFIRMANDO ET LIBERIS LEGITIMIS FACIENDIS.

40. FORMULA FOR CONFIRMING MARRIAGE AND FOR MAKING CHILDREN LEGITIMATE.

[1] Aeternum est beneficium quod posteritatis fuerit favore collatum nec plus est conveniens regi quam si humanae praestet origini. in lucem quippe venturus casus suscipere non meretur adversos, ne ante gravamen districtionis incurrat quam gaudia supernae lucis inveniat.

[1] Eternal is the benefice that has been conferred by the favor of posterity, nor is anything more fitting for a king than that he should provide for the human origin. For one who is about to come into the light does not deserve to undergo adverse things, lest he incur the burden of distraint before he find the joys of the supernal light.

[2] Oblata itaque supplicatione depromis mulierem quam tibi placitus illigavit amplexus, beneficio nostro iugali honestate debere sociari, ut ex ea liberi nati nomen nanciscantur heredum. nam cum spontanea copula animantia cuncta consociet dignumque unicuique videatur esse quod placuit, durum est ibi libertatem liberam non haberi, unde liberi procreantur.

[2] Therefore, with the supplication having been offered, you set forth that the woman whom a pleasing embrace has bound to you ought, by our benefaction, to be associated with conjugal honor, so that children born from her may obtain the name of heirs. For since a spontaneous coupling unites all living beings, and what has pleased seems fitting to each, it is harsh that free liberty is not had there whence freeborn are procreated.

[3] Et ideo illam quae, sicut iure praecipitur, honestate non fuisse probatur aequalis, legitimam tibi fieri censemus uxorem et filios ex eadem coniuge, sive qui suscepti sunt sive qui sunt suscipiendi, heredum volumus iura sortiri, ut sub nulla dubietate diligas quos tibi absolute successores futuros esse cognoscas. natura enim tibi praestitit filios, sed nos tali securitate facimus esse carissimos.

[3] And therefore we deem that she who, as the law prescribes, is proved not to have been equal in honor, become for you a legitimate wife; and that the children from the same consort, whether those who have been begotten or those who are to be begotten, we wish to obtain the rights of heirs, so that under no dubiety you may cherish those whom you recognize will be your absolute successors. For nature has provided you with children, but we by such security make them most dear.

XLI. FORMULA AETATIS VENIAE.

41. FORMULA OF THE GRANT OF MAJORITY.

[1] Gloriosa est supplicatio, quae veniam quaerit aetatis: quando se gravitatem de moribus profitetur accipere, quam maturitatem vitae adhuc non contingit intulisse. minor nascendo grandaevus cupis esse consilio. ita quod in humanis rebus audacissimum est, ad erroris auxilium beneficium contemnis annorum.

[1] Glorious is the supplication which seeks a pardon of age: since it professes that it receives gravity from morals, which the maturity of life has not yet chanced to have brought in. A minor by birth, you desire to be an elder in counsel. Thus, in what is most audacious among human affairs, you scorn the benefit of years as a help for error.

quapropter oblata supplicatione depromis, ut, cum tibi sit ratio firma prudentiae, actiones tuae non relinquantur ambiguae, ne infirmetur iure quod non potest utilitate titubare. hoc nos, quibus cordi est bona desideria perficere, libenter accipimus, quia nullas se captare velle profitetur insidias, quisquis habere liberos contractus constanter affectat.

Wherefore, with your supplication proffered you bring forth this: that, since you have a firm rationale of prudence, your actions not be left ambiguous, lest that be weakened in law which cannot totter in utility. This we—whose heart is to bring good desires to fulfillment—gladly accept, because whoever steadfastly strives to have free contracts professes that he wishes to lay no snares.

[2] Atque ideo, si id tempus constat elapsum, quo ad hanc veniam accedi iura voluerunt, nos quoque probabilibus desideriis licentiam non negamus, ut in competenti foro ea quae in his causis reverenda legum dictat antiquitas, sollemniter actitentur, ita ut alienandis rusticis vel urbanis praediis constitutionum servetur auctoritas: ne cum opinioni praestare volumus, utilitatem supplicis laedere videamur. cape igitur nostro beneficio potiorem annis aetatem et quod petis ab oraculo, moribus exhibeto. nam professio maturitatis acerbae locum denegat actionis, quando multo gravior est culpa, quam suae promissionis impugnat auctoritas.

[2] And therefore, if it is established that the time has elapsed at which the laws wished approach to be made to this grant of age, we too do not deny license to reasonable desires, so that in the competent forum those things which in these causes the venerable antiquity of the laws dictates may be solemnly transacted, provided that, for the alienating of rustic or urban estates, the authority of the constitutions is observed: lest, when we wish to defer to opinion, we seem to injure the advantage of the suppliant. Take then, by our beneficence, an age more potent than your years, and what you ask from the oracle, exhibit by your mores. For a profession of unripe maturity denies a place for action, since the fault is much graver that impugns the authority of its own promise.

XLII. FORMULA EDICTI, AD QUAESTOREM, UT IPSE SPONDERE DEBEAT, QUI SAIONEM MERETUR.

42. FORMULA OF AN EDICT, TO THE QUAESTOR, THAT HE HIMSELF OUGHT TO BE SURETY, WHO DESERVES A SAIO.

[1] Frequenter saiones, quos a nobis credidimus pia voluntate concedi, querelis maximis cognovimus ingravatos. corruptum est, pro dolor! beneficium nostrum, crevitque potius de medicina calamitas, dum ad alios usus petentium malignitate translati sunt quam eos nostra remedia transtulerunt.

[1] Frequently the saions, whom we believed were granted by us with a pious will, we have learned to be weighed down with the greatest complaints. Our benefaction, alas! has been corrupted, and rather has calamity grown out of the medicine, while they have been transferred to other uses by the malignity of the petitioners than to those to which our remedies transferred them.

unde nobis necesse fuit remedio salubri votis pestiferis obviare, ne, dum pietatis studio ad aequabilia beneficia trahimur, subreptionum iniquissima patiamur.

whence it was necessary for us to oppose baneful petitions with a salutary remedy, lest, while by zeal of piety we are drawn toward equitable benefits, we suffer the most unjust subreptions.

[2] Atque ideo edictali programmate definimus, ut, quicumque contra violentas insidias propter ineluctabiles necessitates suas mereri desiderat forte saionem, officio nostro poenali se vinculo cautionis astringat, ut, si praecepta nostra eius inmissione plectibili is apud quem meretur excesserit, ipse poenae nomine det auri libras tot et satisfacere se promittat quaecumque adversarius eius potuerit tam commodi quam itineris sustinere detrimenta.

[2] And therefore by an edictal program we define that, whoever, against violent ambushes, on account of his ineluctable necessities, happens perchance to desire to engage for pay a saion, shall bind himself to our office by a penal bond of caution, so that, if by the punishable introduction of him the one with whom he serves for pay shall have transgressed our precepts, he himself shall give, in the name of a penalty, so many pounds of gold, and shall promise to satisfy whatever detriments, both of convenience and of journey, his adversary shall have been able to sustain.

[3] Nos enim cum reprimere inciviles animos volumus, praegravare innocentiam non debemus. saio autem, qui sua voluntate modum praeceptionis excesserit, donativo se noverit exuendum et gratiae nostrae, quod est damnis omnibus gravius, incurrere posse periculum nec sibi ulterius esse credendum, si iussionis nostrae, cuius executor esse debuit, temerator extiterit.

[3] For when we wish to repress uncivil spirits, we ought not to overburden innocence. saio, however, who by his own will has exceeded the measure of the preception, let him know that he is to be stripped of the donative and to be able to incur the peril of our favor, which is more grievous than all losses, and that no further credence is to be given to him, if he has proved a violator of our command, whose executor he ought to have been.

XLIII. FORMULA PROBATORIAE CHARTARIORUM.

43. PROBATIONARY FORMULA FOR THE CHARTARII.

[1] Constat militiam bene geri, quae probatis moribus videtur imponi, quando ipse secum potest revolvere, quod iudex eum admonere debuit: maxime cum ad patrimonia divinae domus talis mereatur accedere, ut detestabili cupiditate non possit accendi. deinde cum splendidissimum officium censoria quadam gravitate reluceat et turpe sit illi misceri qui dignis moribus non potest approbari, congruum videtur tales quaerere qui in nullo debeant displicere. atque ideo tribuni chartariorum suggestione comperta, penes quem officii est digna reverentia, ab illo die chartarii te volumus nomen adipisci, ut qui nobis bene acturus promitteris, documentis laudabilibus approberis.

[1] It is agreed that service is well conducted, when it appears to be imposed upon approved morals, since he himself can revolve with himself what the judge ought to have admonished him: especially when one deserves to approach the patrimonies of the divine house, so that he cannot be inflamed by detestable cupidity. Then, since the most splendid office shines with a certain censorial gravity, and it is shameful for it to be mingled with one who cannot be approved with worthy morals, it seems congruent to seek such men as ought in no respect to displease. And therefore, the suggestion of the tribune of the chartarii having been ascertained, in whose power is the due reverence of the office, from that day we wish you to acquire the name of chartarius, so that, as you promise to act well for us, you may be approved by praiseworthy documents.

avaritiam declina: fuge longius iniqua compendia. multo melius proficitur, si bonis operibus serviatur.

Decline avarice: flee farther from iniquitous shortcuts. Much better progress is made, if good works are served.

XLIIII. FORMULA DE COMPETITIONIBUS.

44. FORMULA CONCERNING RIVAL CLAIMS.

[1] Nescio quid grande de se videtur promittere, qui loca desiderat publica possidere. hoc enim ita fieri decet, si res squalida in meliorem loci faciem transferatur et revocetur ad ornatum quod pridem iacere videbatur incultum. atque ideo desideranti tibi illum locum proprietario iure concedimus, praeter aes aut plumbum vel marmora, si tamen ibi fuerint latere comperta.

[1] I do not know what great thing about himself he seems to promise, who desires to possess public places. For it is fitting that this be done thus: if the squalid thing be transferred into a better aspect of the place, and that which long seemed to lie uncultivated be recalled to ornament. And therefore to you who desire it we grant that place by proprietary right, except for bronze or lead or marbles, if, however, any should be found to have been concealed there.

age itaque ut per te decorem sumat quod neglectum incuriosa vetustate iacuerat, quatenus boni civis laudem invenire merearis, si faciem tuae civitatis ornaveris, securus etiam ad quoslibet vel ad posteros transmissurus quod proprio fuerit labore compositum. quia tanto firmius unusquisque talia possidebit, quanto se auctoresque suos amplius expendisse probaverit.

See to it, therefore, that, through you, what had lain neglected by incurious antiquity may take on adornment, to the extent that you may deserve to find the praise of a good citizen, if you shall have ornamented the face of your city, being assured as well that you will transmit to whomsoever or to posterity what shall have been composed by your own labor. For each person will possess such things the more firmly, the more he shall have proved that he and his authors (predecessors) have expended more upon them.

XLV. FORMULA, QUA CENSUS RELEVETUR EI QUI UNAM CASAM POSSIDET PRAEGRAVATAM.

45. FORMULA, BY WHICH THE CENSUS IS RELIEVED FOR HIM WHO POSSESSES ONE HOUSE OVERBURDENED.

[1] Cum de agri utilitate vivatur et omnibus inde certum sit iustum venire compendium, tributum illud possessionis in illa provincia constitutae ita quereris onerosum, ut universas tibi voraverit facultates hiatus ille vastissimus functionis et quod aliunde magno labore potest colligi, per illam videatur absumi, cuius utilitatem nimia transcendit illatio, dum plus compulsoribus redditur quam a sedulo cultore praestetur. quapropter credimus te evadere posse nuditatem, si dominium huius ruris amiseris, cui iugis sterilitas de compulsoribus venit, ne condicione miserabili servias necessitati, cuius dominus esse meruisti.

[1] Since people live by the utility of the field, and it is certain for all that a just compendium (profit) comes thence, you complain that that tax of the possession established in that province is so onerous that the very vast maw of the exaction has devoured all your resources, and that what elsewhere can be collected with great labor seems to be consumed by it, the imposition exceeding its utility, while more is rendered to the enforcers than is supplied by the diligent cultivator. Wherefore we believe you can escape destitution, if you should lose the ownership of this land, to which continual barrenness comes from the enforcers, lest in a miserable condition you serve Necessity, of which you have deserved to be the master.

[2] Sed quia hoc genus beneficii praestari mediocribus leges sacratissimae censuerunt, ut qui unius cespitis enormitate deprimitur nec alterius commodo sublevatur, moderatione habita ei debeat subveniri, magnitudini vestrae, cui cordi est cogitare iustitiam, praesenti auctoritate decernimus, ut, si ita est, tot solidos tributarios supradictae possessionis datis praeceptionibus ad eos quorum interest ita faciatis de vasariis publicis diligenter abradi, ut huius rei duplex vestigium non debeat inveniri, sed per saecula sine errore servetur quod una tantum summa concluditur.

[2] But because the most sacred laws have judged that this kind of benefice be furnished to the middling, that he who is pressed down by the enormity of a single turf-plot and is not lifted up by the convenience of another should be aided, moderation being had, we, to your Magnitude, to whom it is at heart to cogitate justice, by the present authority decree that, if it is so, just so many tributary solidi of the aforesaid possession, with precepts given, you shall thus have carefully scraped off from the public tax-rolls to those whom it concerns, that a double vestige of this matter ought not to be found, but that through the ages without error there be preserved what is concluded as a single sum only.

XLVI. FORMULA QUA CONSOBRINAE MATRIMONIUM LEGITIMUM FIAT.

46. FORMULA BY WHICH THE LEGITIMATE MARRIAGE OF A FEMALE COUSIN MAY BE MADE.

[1] Institutio divinarum legum humano iuri ministravit exordium, quando in illis capitibus legitur praeceptum quae duabus tabulis probantur ascripta. sacer enim Moyses divina institutione formatus Israhelitico populo inter alia definivit, ut concubitus suos a vicinitate pii sanguinis abstinerent, ne et se in proximitatem redeundo polluerent et dilatationem providam in genus extraneum non haberent. hoc prudentes viri sequentes exemplum multo longius pudicam observantiam posteris transmiserunt, reservantes principi tantum beneficium in consobrinis nuptiali copulatione iungendis, intellegentes rarius posse praesumi quod a principe iusserant postulari.

[1] The institution of the divine laws ministered a beginning to human law, when in those chapters is read the precept which is approved as inscribed on the two tablets. For holy Moses, formed by divine instruction, determined for the Israelite people among other things that they should abstain in their concubitus from the vicinity of pious blood, lest by returning into proximity they both pollute themselves and fail to have a provident dilation into an alien stock. Following this example, prudent men transmitted to posterity a much more extended modest observance, reserving to the prince alone the benefice of joining female cousins in nuptial copulation, understanding that what they had ordered to be petitioned from the prince could be presumed more rarely.

[2] Ammiramur inventum et temperiem rerum stupenda consideratione laudamus hoc ad principis remissum fuisse iudicium, ut qui populorum mores regebat, ipse et moderata concupiscentiae frena laxaret. et ideo, supplicationum tuarum tenore permoti, si tibi tantum illa consobrini sanguinis vicinitate coniungitur nec alio gradu proximior approbaris, matrimonio tuo decernimus esse sociandam nullamque vobis exinde iubemus fieri quaestionem, quando hoc et leges nostra permitti voluntate consentiunt et vota vestra praesentis auctoritatis beneficia firmaverunt. erunt vobis itaque deo favente posteri sollemniter heredes, castum matrimonium, gloriosa permixtio, quoniam quicquid a nobis fieri praecipitur, necesse est ut non culpis, sed laudibus applicetur.

[2] We admire the invention and praise the tempering of things with a stupendous consideration, that this had been remitted to the judgment of the prince, that he who governed the manners of peoples should himself also loosen the moderated reins of concupiscence. And therefore, moved by the tenor of your supplications, if she is joined to you only by that nearness of cousin-blood (consanguinity) and you are not approved as nearer in any other degree, we decree that she is to be united to your marriage, and we order that no question be made for you two thereafter, since both the laws, by our will, consent that this be permitted, and your vows have made firm the benefits of the present authority. There will be to you therefore, God favoring, descendants solemnly heirs, a chaste marriage, a glorious commixture, since whatever is ordered to be done by us must needs be referred not to faults but to praises.

XLVII. FORMULA AD PPO, UT SUB DECRETO CURIALIUM PRAEDIA VENUNDENTUR.

47. FORMULA TO THE PRAETORIAN PREFECT, THAT UNDER THE DECREE OF THE CURIALS THE PREDIAL ESTATES BE SOLD.

[1] Patitur hoc inprovida mortalium plerumque condicio, ut, cum laedere putatur, consulat et cum consulere videtur, affligat. sed illud magis est eligendum, quod prodesse cognoscitur. nam venena ipsa si iuvare probantur, accepta sunt: et contra refugienda est suavitas mellis, quae inferre dinoscitur laesiones.

[1] The improvident condition of mortals for the most part suffers this: that, when it is thought to harm, it consults their welfare, and when it seems to consult, it afflicts. But that is rather to be chosen which is known to profit. For poisons themselves, if they are proven to help, are acceptable; and conversely the sweetness of honey is to be shunned, which is recognized to bring on lesions.

finis ergo sapientis est amare quod expedit: sic nec aegri votum respicit qui prodesse contendit. praedia quidem curialium non facile distrahi prudens definivit antiquitas, ut ad necessitates publicas melius sufficerent, si substantiae iuvamina plus haberent.

Therefore the end of the wise man is to love what is expedient: thus he who strives to be of profit does not regard the vow of the sick man. Indeed prudent antiquity defined that the estates of the curials not be easily alienated, so that they might better suffice for public necessities, if the aids of their substance were greater.

[2] Sed in hac iterum parte prospexit, ut, si apud vos ineluctabilis necessitas appareret, ei suarum rerum distractio subveniret. nam quid prodest, si quispiam videatur idoneus et fieri non possit a contractis nexibus absolutus? egenti similis est, qui reddere nequit alienum, nec dici potest proprium, quod liberare dominum non videtur aditum.

[2] But in this part again he provided, that, if with you an ineluctable necessity should appear, the liquidation of his own goods might come to his aid. For what does it profit, if someone seem suitable and yet cannot be freed from contracted bonds? He is like one in want who cannot render what is another’s, nor can that be called one’s own which does not seem to free an access for its owner.

[3] Sed quamvis hoc vestrae potestati fuerit legum auctoritate concessum, tamen, ne quam vel rarissimi facti sustineretis invidiam, illius municipis allegatione permoti, nos quoque eminentiae vestrae praesenti iussione permittimus, ut ad liquidum veritate discussa, si aliter solvi nequeunt contracta ligamina, praedii sui, quod propria voluntate delegerit, habeat licentiam distrahendi, ita ut reddat debitum quod probatur esse contractum, ne vitio voracitatis imbutus facultates suas absorbere videatur esse permissus. constet apud vos probabilis causa damnorum, quoniam illi volumus subveniri qui duris necessitatibus probatur astringi: utrumque enim potest esse culpabile aut malis moribus frena laxare aut iustas iterum querelas excludere. quapropter provide vobis permisit antiquitas de illa causa decernere, cui est utile curiam custodire.

[3] But although this has been conceded to your power by the authority of the laws, nevertheless, lest you incur any odium even from a very rare deed, moved by the allegation of that townsman, we also, by a present injunction to your eminence, permit that—once the truth has been examined to clarity, if the contracted bonds cannot otherwise be loosed—he have license to sell that holding of his which he shall have chosen by his own will, on condition that he pay the debt which is proved to have been contracted, lest, imbued with the vice of voracity, he seem to have been permitted to absorb his resources. Let there be established with you a probable cause of the damages, since we wish aid to be given to him who is proved to be bound by hard necessities: for either course can be culpable—either to loosen the reins for bad morals or to exclude just complaints in turn. Wherefore antiquity has prudently permitted you to decide concerning that cause, for which it is useful to safeguard the curia.

a quibus enim urbium munia poterunt sustineri, si civitatum nervi passim videantur abscidi?

for by whom indeed will the municipal duties of the cities be able to be sustained, if the civic sinews seem to be cut off everywhere?