That holy virgins when they are separated from their parents by whom they have been wont to be guarded, are to be commended by the care of the bishop, or presbyter where the bishop is absent, to women of graver age, so that [444] living with them they may take care of them, lest they hurt the reputation of the Church by wandering about.

Notes.

Ancient Epitome of Canon XLIV.

She who leaves her father for the sake of virginity is to be commended to grave women.

This canon is Canon xxxj. of the Synod of Hippo, a.d.393.

[444] The Latin is aut.