The Same Emperor to the Same Stylianus.

Just as certain other matters are adopted in the common affairs of life on account of the benefits which they confer, and as We approve everything which is useful, and despise things which are of no value, so, in the enactment of laws, it is absolutely necessary to accept and ratify all provisions whose employment may be, in any way, advantageous to the State; and, on the other hand, abolish such laws as are unreasonable or evil. We make these statements for the reason that_f in former times, certain laws relating to curise and decurions imposed some very inconvenient and grievous burdens upon the latter, while they permitted the former to appoint certain magistrates and govern cities by their own authority. And as all civil institutions are at present changed, and all matters are entrusted to the care and administration of the Emperor, We, by this Our decree, do annul these provisions as having no legal force.