Letter 20

To Diogenes [a cousin of Synesius]. The blessed Theodorus [a patron of the arts] was during his lifetime a generous host to the citizens of Pentapolis. He was particularly kind to my own parents. Now he is gone, and his kinsman Ammonius needs your help. Show him the same consideration Theodorus showed us — you will be honoring a good man and repaying an old debt of gratitude at the same time.

Letter 20: A recommendation [1] To Diogenes note [A cousin of Synesius, who also sent him Letter 23 .] The blessed Theodorus note [A patron of the arts also mentioned in Letters 18 and 21 , but otherwise unknown.] was during his lifetime a popular host to the citizens of Pentapolis . He particularly attached my own parents to himself by the great kindness he showed them in every possible way, and by his delightful conversation and charm. [2] Let us recall the grace of his many delightful traits by our actions in favor of his kinsman, Ammonius. I have paid my meed of gratitude. And what was the duty of the absent but to comment this man to such as near him at the moment? It is your duty to see that his stay among you should not be irksome to him.