CHAPTER IX

HE WAS THE SON OF A PIOUS EMPEROR, AND BEQUEATHED THE IMPERIAL POWER TO HIS OWN SONS

NOR did he give this testimony in words merely, while exhibiting failure in his own practice, but pursued every path of virtue, and was rich in the varied fruits of godliness. He ensured the affection of his friends by magnificent proofs of liberality; and inasmuch as he governed on principles of humanity, he caused his rule to be but lightly felt and acceptable to all classes of his subjects: until at last, after a long course of years, and when he was wearied by his divine labours, the God whom he honoured crowned him with an immortal reward, and translated him from a transitory kingdom to that endless life which He has laid up in store for the souls of His saints, after He had raised him up three sons to succeed him in his power. As then the imperial throne had descended to him from his father, so, by the law of nature, was it reserved for his children and their descendants, and perpetuated (like some paternal inheritance) to endless generations. And indeed God Himself, who distinguished this blessed prince with divine honours while yet present with us, and who has adorned his death with choice blessings from His own hand, should be the writer of his actions; since He has recorded his labours and their successful results on tablets of heavenly memorial.