The Cities’ Resolutions

Since this man had been the first to succeed in his purpose, all the other officials living in the cities under the same rule set out to pass a similar resolution; for the governors of the provinces had seen that this was pleasing to the emperor, and had suggested to their subjects that they do the same. [a] When the tyrant answered their resolutions too with a written reply expressing the greatest pleasure, the persecution against us blazed up afresh. Priests of the images were appointed in each city, and over them high priests appointed by Maximin himself: men who had most distinguished themselves in public life and had won fame in every office, and who brought great zeal to the worship of the gods they served. [b] In short, the extraordinary superstition of the ruler led all those under him, rulers and subjects alike, to do everything against us to win his favor. They thought it the greatest return they could make him for the benefits they expected to receive from him, to thirst for our blood and to show some fresh malice against us. [c]