Gregory wrote a letter to Ethelbert, in which, after informing him that the end of the world was approaching, he exhorted him to display his zeal in the conversion of his subjects, to exert rigour against the worship of idols, and to build up the good work of holiness by every expedient of exhortation, terror, blandishment, or correction [t]: a doctrine more suitable to that age, and to the usual papal maxims, than the tolerating principles which Augustine had thought it prudent to inculcate.

The pontiff also answered some questions which the missionary had put concerning the government of the new church of Kent.

Besides other queries which it is not material here to relate, Augustine asked, WHETHER COUSIN- GERMANS MIGHT BE ALLOWED TO MARRY?
Gregory answered, that that liberty had indeed been formerly granted by the Roman law; but that experience had shown, that no issue could ever come from such marriages; and he therefore prohibited them.

Augustine, WHETHER A WOMAN PREGNANT MIGHT BE BAPTIZED?
Gregory answered that he saw no objection.

HOW SOON AFTER THE BIRTH THE CHILD MIGHT RECEIVE BAPTISM?
It was answered, Immediately, if necessary.