79. To Baldwin, King of Jerusalem

Anselm, the archbishop, albeit unworthy, of Canter bury, to Baldwin, his beloved lord, by the grace of God King of Jerusalem: may you so reign in this life over the earthly Jerusalem, that you may in the next reign in the heavenly Jerusalem.

Although by the gift of God you have the knowledge which, God helping you, might suffice for living well, and although I know your intentions to be good, yet the abundant love I feel towards you induces me to write something, though from afar, to your highness. For as a fire already burning is fanned into brighter flame by a breeze, so is a good-will roused by friendly admonition into more vigorous action. You know, my beloved lord, how God chose the city of Jerusalem both before the coming of the Lord and in His coming, to be His very own and the joy of the whole earth. Hers were those first kings whom the Lord loved; out of her came the prophets, in her was the special house of God and His sanctuary; there was effected our redemption, there lived the King of kings; thence was diffused all over the world the salvation of the human race. Let your highness therefore consider what a very conspicuous favour from God it is that He should have chosen you to be king in this city; and with what desire and zeal that man should devote himself to the will of God and His service, whom He has made to be king there. I pray therefore, I adjure, I warn you, my lord and my friend, to try so to govern yourself and all beneath you according to the law and will of God, that you may set a bright example by your life to all the kings of the earth. May the Lord Jesus Christ so reign in your heart and over your actions, that you may, with King David your predecessor, reign for ever in heaven. Amen. Know that I pray daily for you, poor though my prayers be.