Unless the common prayers were frequently hindered by the obstacle of sins, I had wished to obey the customary command of charity with my wonted service. For while to attend both the festival and yourselves would have been a matter of double gain, you see that it pertains to my loss alone that I am unable to fulfill the precept. For among us the coming of the authorities is looked for at each single moment, so that unless I take care to be present when they arrive, my withdrawal, however innocent, would be imputed by those who are wont to blame even lighter things in us, not only to negligence but even to contumacy.
Wherefore, our common necessity being considered, mercifully pardon my incapacity, and pray that we may be able to satisfy our desires, if not continually, at least from time to time.