Letter 4017: King Theodoric to Ibba, Vir Sublimis [Most Exalted], Dux [Military Commander].

XVII. King Theoderic to Ibba, a man of exalted rank, a general [dux]. [1] We wish that a matter settled by an ancient king, which nonetheless is agreed to have been reasonably decreed, should waver in no ambiguity, since that which is recommended by a commendable command ought to be firm. For why should we unsettle earlier measures, where there is nothing that we ought to correct? [2] And therefore by our present authority we command you that the possessions of the church of Narbonne, in accordance with the decrees of Alaric of most exalted memory, which are held when occupied by whatever usurpers, you cause to be restored out of regard for equity, since we are unwilling that unlawful presumptions should be engaged in to the church's loss, while it befits our times to calm what is in disorder. [3] Be altogether watchful against such things, so that you, who are renowned in war, may be rendered distinguished in civility [civil conduct] as well. Thus too you strengthen your arms, with God's help, if you strive to preserve justice for persons of middling station. For you cannot avail to excuse not having been able to resist the wicked, since all gladly yield to you, whom they have known to be glorious in the contest of wars. A coward could perhaps command nothing to the bold: no one commands those who presume more than he whom his own deeds commend.

XVII. IBBAE VIRO SUBLIMI DUCI THEODERICUS REX. [1] Definitam rem ab antiquo rege, quam tamen constat rationabiliter esse decretam, nulla volumus ambiguitate titubare, quia decet firmum esse quod commendatur probabili iussione. cur enim priora quassemus, ubi nihil est quod corrigere debeamus? [2] Atque ideo praesenti tibi auctoritate praecipimus, ut possessiones Narbonensis ecclesiae secundum praecelsae recordationis Alarici praecepta, a quibuslibet pervasoribus occupatae teneantur, aequitatis facias contemplatione restitui, quia versari nolumus in ecclesiae dispendio praesumptiones illicitas, dum nostra deceat tempora sedare confusa. [3] Esto contra talia omnino sollicitus, ut qui es bello clarus, civilitate quoque reddaris eximius. sic et arma tua deo iuvante corroboras, si iustitiam mediocribus servare contendas. improbis enim non potuisse resistere non praevales excusare, quando omnes tibi libenter cedunt, quem gloriosum in bellorum certamine cognoverunt. ignavus forte audacibus iubere nihil possit: nemo plus praesumentibus imperat, quam quem sua facta commendant.