The Epistle of Maria the Proselyte to Ignatius

 Mary of Cassobelæ to Ignatius

 Chapter I.—Occasion of the epistle.

 Chapter II.—Youth may be allied with piety and discretion.

 Chapter III.—Examples of youthful devotedness.

 Chapter IV.—The same subject continued.

 Chapter V.—Expressions of respect for Ignatius.

Chapter II.—Youth may be allied with piety and discretion.

But as to those whom we have named being young men, do not, thou blessed one, have any apprehension. For I would have you know that they are wise about the flesh, and are insensible to its passions, they themselves glowing with all the glory of a hoary head through their own8 Literally, “in themselves.” intrinsic merits, and though but recently called as young men to the priesthood.9 Literally, “in recent newness of priesthood.” Now, call thou into exercise10 Literally, “call up.” thy thoughts through the Spirit that God has given to thee by Christ, and thou wilt remember11 Literally, “know.” that Samuel, while yet a little child, was called a seer, and was reckoned in the company of the prophets, that he reproved the aged Eli for transgression, since he had honoured his infatuated sons above God the author of all things, and had allowed them to go unpunished, when they turned the office of the priesthood into ridicule, and acted violently towards thy people.