before our common King and Lord. The country of the Martyr is the place of his suffering : his citizens, his brothers, his relations are they, who possess, who guard, who honour him. We are in fear of afflictions: we look for dangers : the Scythians approach us with dreadful war. Thou, indeed, hast overcome the world; but thou knowest the feelings and the wants of our nature. Beg for us the continuance of peace, that these our public meetings be not dissolved; that the wicked and raging barbarian overthrow not our temples and our altars; that he tread not underfoot thy holy places. That hitherto we have lived in safety, we owe to thy favour : we implore thy protection for the days that are to come; and if a host of prayers be necessary, assemble the choirs of your brother martyrs, and supplicate all together for us. The united services of so many just will cover the sins of the people. Admonish Peter, solicit Paul, call John, the beloved disciple, and let them intercede for the Churches, which they themselves have founded.” Orat. in Theod. Martyr. T. ii. p. 1017. In the life of St. Ephrem, he thus addresses that holy Deacon: “ Do thou now, being present at God's altar, and with his angels offering sacrifice to the Prince of life, and to the most holy Trinity, remember us; begging for us the pardon of our sins.” T. ii. p. 1048.
ST. AMBROSE, L. C.- The Fathers of the Western Church speak the same language: “ Thou hast friends who may intercede for thee. These are the Apostles and the Martyrs. - It is not nearness of blood, but the relationship of virtue that forms this friendship.--Associate thyself, therefore,
