As for the tone of the letter, and the exact character of the relation between the Courts of Ravenna and Constantinople which is indicated by it, there is room for a wide divergence of opinion. To me it does not seem to bear out Justinian's contention (recorded by Procopius, De Bello Gotthico ii. 6) that Theodoric ruled Italy as the Emperor's lieutenant. Under all the apparent deference and affectation of humility the language seems to me to be substantially that of one equal addressing another, older and with a somewhat more assured position, but still an equal.
[210] Otranto.
[211] Vernans.
[212] Blatta.
[213] I presume the same as Hydruntum (Otranto).
[214] Father of the Author.
[215] 'In ipso quippe imperii nostri devotus exordio, cum adhuc fluctuantibus rebus provinciarum corda vagarentur, et negligi rudem dominum novitas ipsa pateretur.'
[216] Father of Cassiodorus Senator.
[217] Grandfather of Cassiodorus Senator.
[218] Great-grandfather of Cassiodorus Senator.