Letter 27

To Constans. If you hold the virtue of philosophy in esteem, you will honor it not only in the living but also in the dead. The divine Amyntianus, once among us for a time, has passed on to a better lot — absent in appearance, but I think still present in spirit. A close relative of his, his own kinsman, now needs your help. Show him that the legacy of a philosopher still carries weight with honorable men.

Letter 27: A Recommendation [1] To Constans If you hold the virtue of philosophy in esteem, you will honor it not merely in those of the present day who have their share in it, but also in those who are dead and gone. The divine Amyntianus, for a time once with us, has obtained a better lot, and is, I think, present, though he appears to be absent. [2] A near relation of this man, his own cousin, is being attacked by your own Soterichus. Show a little interest yourself in behalf of Dionysius, and Soterichus will immediately stop attacking him.