Apion Ἀπίων
sailor in the fleet · the Fayum, Roman Egypt · Misenum, Italy · 2nd century
A young man from the village of Philadelphia in the Fayum, Egypt. He joined the Roman fleet and wrote to his father Epimachus on reaching the harbour of Misenum in Italy. In the service he was given a new Roman name, Antonius Maximus.
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2nd century · Apion, a young man from an Egyptian village, wrote this to his father as soon as he reached Italy as a recruit in the Roman fleet. He goes on: “you brought me up well, and so I hope to be promoted quickly.”
I thank the lord Serapis that when I was in danger at sea he saved me at once. When I reached Misenum I received from Caesar three gold pieces for my travelling money, and I am well.
εὐχαριστῶ τῷ κυρίῳ Σεράπιδι ὅτι μου κινδυνεύσαντος εἰς θάλασσαν ἔσωσε εὐθέως. ὅτε εἰσῆλθον εἰς Μησήνους, ἔλαβα βιάτικον παρὰ Καίσαρος χρυσοῦς τρεῖς καὶ καλῶς μοί ἐστιν.
Berlin Papyri II 423 (BGU II 423)
2nd century · The end of the same letter. He reports the Roman name he was given in the service, and sends his portrait for the family at home.
I have sent you a little portrait of myself by Euctemon. My name is Antonius Maximus.
ἔπεμψά σο[ι εἰ]κόνιν μ[ου] διὰ Εὐκτήμονος. ἔσ[τ]ι[ν] μου ὄνομα Ἀντῶνις Μάξιμος.
Berlin Papyri II 423 (BGU II 423)
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