Letter 3004: The experts in rhetoric say there's no controversy when both sides are guilty of the same thing.

Those who are skilled in the art of rhetoric say that there is no dispute where the demands of both parties are the same. Do you ask for an illustration of the matter I have proposed? I pass over the well-worn inventions of practice declamations in the courts and the empty phantoms of legal cases: this very long duration of our silence is itself an example of such a theme. You will reproach me with the negligence of a duty left undone: that charge is referred back upon yourself. Therefore, since we are equals, it is a sweet game, in which neither party complains against the other. When you grant pardon, you have obtained it. But why do I deal with you on equal terms, when my case is now the better, since I am the first to make amends for the fault of us both? I shall see what your remedy will be in writing back. For my part, I have brought back into one the chance numbness of our friendship, and from that fact I do not court your gratitude. It is praise enough for me to have washed away the odium of my silence. Farewell. [Written at Rome, A.D. 380.]