To John, Bishop of Syracuse, on Martin and the Primate of Byzacena

Gregory to John, and so on. [a]

I have received your fraternity’s letter, in which you tell me that the most eloquent Martin has come from the province of Africa and has told you something privately. And indeed your fraternity never stops showing your love toward the blessed apostle Peter, as often as you find occasion. So we give thanks to Almighty God that where you are, there we are not found absent. Nevertheless, your holiness does not yet fully know the case in hand. The primate of Byzacena had been accused on some charge, and the most pious emperor wanted him to be judged by us according to the rule of the canons. But then, on receiving roughly seven pounds of gold, Theodore the master of the soldiers opposed its being done. Yet the most pious emperor urged us to commission someone and to do whatever the canons require. But seeing how men oppose one another, we have been unwilling to decide this case. [b]

And now this same primate says something about his own intention. It is very doubtful whether he says such things to us sincerely, or in fact because he is under attack from his fellow bishops. For as to his saying that he is subject to the Apostolic See, if any fault is found in bishops, I do not know what bishop is not subject to it. But when no fault requires otherwise, all are equal according to the principle of humility. Nevertheless, speak with the most eloquent Martin as seems good to your fraternity. For it is for you to consider what should be done. We have replied to you briefly on the case, because we ought not to believe without distinction men who are actually unknown to us. If, however, you, who see him in person, think that something more definite should be said to him, we leave this to your love, being sure of your love in the grace of Almighty God. And whatever you do, regard it without doubt as done by us.