Theodoret of Cyrrhus → Claudianus

To Claudianus,

Sincere friendships are neither dissolved by distance nor weakened by time. Time does indeed inflict indignities on our bodies -- it strips them of the bloom of beauty and brings on old age. But friendship it only makes more beautiful, constantly kindling its fire to greater warmth and brightness.

So although I am separated from your magnificence by many days' journey, the goad of friendship drives me to write this greeting. The letter is carried by the standard-bearer Patroinus, a man whose high character makes him worthy of every respect -- he strives with great zeal to observe the laws of God.

Please be so kind, most excellent sir, as to send back by him news of your precious health, and word on whether you have fulfilled that promise of yours.