Letter 4

From: Desiderius of Cahors, bishop To: Chlodulf (son of Arnulf of Metz), court official Date: ~640 AD Context: Desiderius writes to Chlodulf, a member of the Carolingian family, seeking his intercession with the royal court on behalf of the Cahors cathedral project. To the most noble Chlodulf, worthy servant of God and of the king, from Desiderius of Cahors, greetings, The reputation of your family for piety and for the honest service of the Frankish kingdom is well known throughout the church, and I write on the strength of that reputation to ask a favor. The cathedral of Saint Stephen at Cahors is dedicated to the first martyr, whose feast day this kingdom honors. The work of building it is well advanced, thanks to the generosity of the royal house and of those who have followed the royal example. What remains is the completion of the sanctuary and the installation of the altar — work that requires both resources and, frankly, royal attention to certain administrative matters that have been slower to resolve than the stonework. Specifically: there is a property question relating to land adjacent to the cathedral complex that has been before the royal court for two years without resolution. The land is needed for the completion of the building's western approach. I have petitioned through the normal channels without result. I ask you, who have the king's confidence, to bring this matter to his attention and to commend its prompt resolution. I am grateful for whatever you can do. Your servant in Christ, Desiderius