'The King should sow his gifts broadcast, as the sower his seeds—not put them all into one hole.
'The Patrician Paulinus represents to us that such and such granaries are falling into ruin and are of no use to anyone, and asks to be allowed to repair them and transmit them to his heirs. We consent to this, if you are of opinion that they are not wanted for the public, and if there is no corn in them belonging to our Treasury.
'It is especially fitting that all ruined buildings should be repaired in Rome. In Rome, praised beyond all other cities by the world's mouth, there should be nothing sordid or mediocre[296].'
[30.] King Theodoric to Argolicus, Illustris and Praefectus Urbis.
Repair of the Cloacae of Rome.
'We are ever vigilant for the repair and beautification of Rome.
'Let your Sublimity know that we have directed John to repair the Cloacae of the City, those splendid works which strike astonishment into the hearts of all beholders. There you see rivers as it were shut in by concave mountains, flowing down through mighty rafters[297] (?). There you see men steering their ships with the utmost possible care, lest they should suffer shipwreck. Hence may the greatness of Rome be inferred. What other city can compare with her in her heights when even her depths are so incomparable?
'See therefore, O Praefect, that John as a public officer receives his proper salary.'
[31.] King Theodoric to the Senate of the City of Rome.
Commission issued to John to check ruin of aqueducts and temples in Rome.