19 surviving letters between Ambrose of Milan and Emperor Theodosius I, spanning 379-396 AD.
To the most blessed Emperor and most merciful prince Theodosius — Ambrose and the other bishops of Italy.
I write to you about a matter that has long concerned me: the speed with which imperial sentences are carried out.
Your Clemency has proposed that a council be convened to settle certain disputed matters.
To the most merciful Emperor Theodosius — from the Council assembled at Aquileia.
Ambrose, Bishop, to the most clement Emperor Theodosius.
You know, most merciful Emperor, that I spoke to you recently about the matter of Callinicum.
Ambrose, Bishop, to the Emperor Theodosius.
I thank you, most merciful Emperor, for your willingness to reconsider the matter of Callinicum.
Ambrose, Bishop, to the Emperor Theodosius — written in my own hand, for your eyes alone.
Your Clemency has done what I asked: you have shown mercy to the defeated supporters of Eugenius.
St. Ambrose begs Theodosius to listen to him, as he cannot be silent without great risk to both. He points out that Theodosius though God-fearing may be led astray, and points out that his decision respecting the restoration of the Jewish synagogue is full of peril, exposing the bishop to the danger of either acting against the truth or of death.
Ambrose, Bishop, to the most merciful prince and most blessed Emperor Theodosius.
Ambrose, Bishop, to the most august Emperor Theodosius.
Addressed to the Emperor Theodosius after the massacre at Thessalonica. St. Ambrose begins by stating his reasons for not having met the Emperor on his return to Milan.