Letter 7043: It is well established that military service is conducted well when it is entrusted to men of proven character,...

43. FORMULA FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF STATIONERS [chartarii, dealers in paper/charters]. [1] It is agreed that public service [militia, official duty] is well conducted when it appears to be entrusted to men of approved character, since such a man can turn over within himself the very thing of which the judge would have had to admonish him; especially since he deserves to gain access to the patrimony of the divine house [the imperial fisc] in such a way that he cannot be inflamed by detestable greed. Next, since this most splendid office shines forth with a certain censorial gravity, and since it is base that one be mingled into it who cannot be approved for worthy conduct, it seems fitting to seek out such men as ought to give displeasure in nothing. And therefore, the recommendation of the tribune of the stationers having been learned—in whose charge lies the proper reverence of the office—we wish you from this day to acquire the title of stationer, so that you who are promised to act well on our behalf may be approved by praiseworthy proofs. Turn aside from avarice; flee far from unjust gains. Far better is the advancement made, if one serves by good works.

XLIII. FORMULA PROBATORIAE CHARTARIORUM. [1] Constat militiam bene geri, quae probatis moribus videtur imponi, quando ipse secum potest revolvere, quod iudex eum admonere debuit: maxime cum ad patrimonia divinae domus talis mereatur accedere, ut detestabili cupiditate non possit accendi. deinde cum splendidissimum officium censoria quadam gravitate reluceat et turpe sit illi misceri qui dignis moribus non potest approbari, congruum videtur tales quaerere qui in nullo debeant displicere. atque ideo tribuni chartariorum suggestione comperta, penes quem officii est digna reverentia, ab illo die chartarii te volumus nomen adipisci, ut qui nobis bene acturus promitteris, documentis laudabilibus approberis. avaritiam declina: fuge longius iniqua compendia. multo melius proficitur, si bonis operibus serviatur.