Chapter IX.--The Epistle of Adrian, decreeing that we should not be punished without a Trial.

1. "To Minucius Fundanus. I have received an epistle, [1054] written to me by Serennius Granianus, a most illustrious man, whom you have succeeded. It does not seem right to me that the matter should be passed by without examination, lest the men [1055] be harassed and opportunity be given to the informers for practicing villainy.

2. If, therefore, the inhabitants of the province can clearly sustain this petition against the Christians so as to give answer in a court of law, let them pursue this course alone, but let them not have resort to men's petitions and outcries. For it is far more proper, if any one wishes to make an accusation, that you should examine into it.

3. If any one therefore accuses them and shows that they are doing anything contrary to the laws, do you pass judgment according to the heinousness of the crime. [1056] But, by Hercules! if any one bring an accusation through mere calumny, decide in regard to his criminality, [1057] and see to it that you inflict punishment." [1058]

Such are the contents of Adrian's rescript.