The Emperor’s Letter Promising Him Safety

Constantius Victor Augustus to Athanasius. Your Prudence is well aware how constantly I prayed that my late brother Constans would succeed in all his undertakings, and your wisdom will easily judge how deeply I grieved when I learned that he had been cut off by the treachery of villains. Now, since certain people are trying at this time to alarm you by setting that lamentable tragedy before your eyes, I have thought it good to address this present letter to your Reverence. I urge you, as befits a bishop, to teach the people to conform to the established religion, and, as is your custom, to give yourself to prayer together with them. For this agrees with our wishes, and our desire is that you should at every season be bishop in your own place. [a] And in another hand: May divine Providence preserve you, beloved father, for many years. [b]