Letter 90

To Theophilus. Justice has departed from humanity. In the past, Andronicus committed injustice; now he in turn suffers it. But it is the nature of the Church to raise the humble and humble the proud. The Church detested Andronicus for his crimes, but now that he has been brought low, it is the Church's duty to show mercy. I ask your guidance on whether to lift the sentence of excommunication — not because he deserves it, but because the Church must be greater than the man it judges.

Letter 90: Andronicus [1] To Theophilus Justice has gone out from mankind. In the past Andronicus note [See the speech Against Andronicus .] did injustice, but now in turn is treated with injustice. Nevertheless it is the character of the Church to exalt the humble and to humble the proud. The Church detested this man Andronicus on account of his actions, wherefore she pressed for this result, but now she pities him for that his experiences have exceeded the measure of her malediction. On his account we have incurred the displeasure of those now in power. [2] After it, it were dreadful if we never take our stand with those that are prosperous, and now if we were ever weeping with them that weep. So we have snatched him from the tribunal here, and have in other respects greatly mitigated his sufferings. [3] If your sacred person judges that this man is worthy of any interest, I shall welcome this as a signal proof that God has not yet entirely abandoned him.