CHAPTER I

CONSTANTINE CONFERS NUMEROUS HONOURS IN THE WAY OF PRESENTS AND PROMOTIONS

WHILE thus variously engaged in promoting the extension and glory of the Church of God, and striving by every measure to commend the Saviour’s doctrine, the emperor was far from neglecting secular affairs; but in this respect also he was unwearied in bestowing benefits of every kind and in quick succession on the people of every province. On the one hand he manifested a paternal anxiety for the general welfare of his subjects; on the other he would distinguish individuals of his own acquaintance with various marks of honour; conferring his benefits in every instance in a truly noble spirit. No one could request a favour from the emperor, and fail of obtaining what he sought: no one expected a boon from him, and found that expectation vain. Some received presents in money, others in land; some obtained the Prætorian præfecture, others senatorial, others again consular rank: many were appointed provincial governors: others were made counts of the first, second, or third order: in numberless instances the title of Most Illustrious, and many other distinctions were conferred; for the emperor devised new dignities, that he might invest a larger number with the tokens of his favour.