Letter 3038: Although it is always the wish of our compassion that civil and moderate behavior prevail everywhere, we especially...

XXXVIII. KING THEODERIC TO VANDIL. [1] Although it is established to be the wish of our piety that everywhere matters be conducted in a civil manner, everywhere with moderation, yet we most especially desire that things be well managed in the Gallic regions, where both the recent devastation does not inflict injury and these very beginnings ought to plant well the fame of our name. For the security, when kept safe, of those who are subject spreads far and wide the reputation of the prince, and where an army is directed, let them be reckoned not as men who burden, but rather as men who defend. [2] And therefore by the present authority we delegate to you that at Avignon, where you reside, you allow nothing violent to be done. Let our army live in a civil manner with the Romans: let the protection appointed for them be of benefit, and do not permit them to suffer anything from our men, those whom we strive to free from hostile oppression.

XXXVIII. VVANDIL THEODERICUS REX. [1] Quamvis pietatis nostrae constet esse votum, ut ubique civilia, ubique moderata peragantur, maxime tamen optamus bene geri in regionibus Gallicanis, ubi et recens vastatio non portat iniuriam et ipsa initia bene plantare debent nostri nominis famam. principis siquidem opinionem longe lateque disseminat subiectorum custodita securitas, et ubi exercitus dirigitur, non gravandi, sed defendendi potius existimentur. [2] Atque ideo praesenti auctoritate delegamus, ut in Avinione, qua resides, nulla fieri violenta patiaris. vivat noster exercitus civiliter cum Romanis: prosit eis destinata defensio nec aliquid illos a nostris sinatis pati, quos ab hostili nitimur oppressione liberari.