Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers: Series II/Volume VIII/The Letters/Letter 344

Basil to Libanius.

dissuaded from writing often to you, learned as you are, by my timidity and my ignorance.&#160; But your persistent silence is different.&#160; What excuse can be offered for it?&#160; If any one takes into account that you are slow to write to me, living as you do in the midst of letters, he will condemn you for forgetfulness of me.&#160; He who is ready at speaking is not unprepared to write.&#160; And if a man so endowed is silent, it is plain that he acts either from forgetfulness or from contempt.&#160; I will, however, requite your silence with a greeting.&#160; Farewell, most honoured sir.&#160; Write if you like.&#160; If you prefer it, do not write.