{"collection":"chr","html_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/browse/chr/ecf/201/2010587.htm","path":"chr/ecf/201/2010587.htm","source_url":"https://sacred-texts.com/chr/ecf/201/2010587.htm","text":"p. 541 Book IV.\nChapter I.\u2014How he honored Many by Presents and Promotions.\nWhile thus variously engaged in promoting the extension and glory of the church of God, and striving by every measure to commend the Saviour\u2019s doctrine, the emperor was far from neglecting secular affairs; but in this respect also he was unwearied in bestowing benefits of every kind and in quick succession on the people of every province. On the one hand he manifested a paternal anxiety for the general welfare of his subjects; on the other he would distinguish individuals of his own acquaintance with various marks of honor; conferring his benefits in every instance in a truly noble spirit. No one could request a favor from the emperor, and fail of obtaining what he sought: no one expected a boon from him, and found that expectation vain. 3308 Some received presents in money, others in land; some obtained the Pr\u00e6torian pr\u00e6fecture, others senatorial, others again consular rank: many were appointed provincial governors: others were made counts of the first, second, or third order: in numberless instances the title of Most Illustrious and many other distinctions were conferred; for the emperor devised new dignities, that he might invest a larger number with the tokens of his favor.\nCompare Prolegomena, under Character, for the criticism of this conduct from those who viewed it from another point of view.","title":"Nicene and Ante-Nicene Fathers, Ser. II, Vol I: The Life ...","type":"page"}