Alexander of Cyprus, Chronicle

The Inquiry Concerning the Finding of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Written by Alexander, the Cypriot Monk, to Whom the Holy Fathers Often Prayed. Father, Bless! Since I have received the command of your petition, O Holy Fathers, I was greatly astonished, for you have asked from a poor and humble one that I should write the true account of the finding of the life-giving and precious Cross, upon which our Lord Jesus Christ was raised by His own will. But He destroyed the power of the devil and the dominion of death, and bestowed imperishable life upon the faithful. When I received the word of this command, it proved to be far beyond my ability, and I trembled at its beginning, for it would have been fitting for wise men like yourselves to undertake and complete such a task, since I have not attained to the study of philosophy, nor have I received the interpretation of words. But truly I am unlearned, not only in words but also in knowledge, and ignorance and weakness always accompany me; therefore, the beginning of this work is not for me. Yet again, I see the fruit of disobedience, and thus I am eager to obey your command.

Now I recall and am deemed worthy to fulfill the completion, by the grace of God, through your prayers I have begun. I do not say that I am something of myself, for I am unlearned and ignorant, as I said before. But with trust in God and through your prayers, I begin that which