To Sophronius, Bishop of Constantina, for Cyprianus

Knowing, man beloved of God, how generous and bountiful your right hand is, I put within your reach a prize worth wanting. For just as people hungry for this world’s gain are annoyed at the sight of those who need money, so the generous are delighted, because the riches they reach for are heavenly. The man who offers you this excellent opportunity is the God-beloved bishop Cyprianus. He was once known among those who help others; but now, as he gives his pitiful account of the calamities in Africa, he must look to the kindness of others and depend on the generosity of devout souls. I hope that he too will enjoy your brotherly kindness, and will be sent on with letters to other havens of refuge. [a]