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AUTHOR: CICERO, MARCUS TULLIUS TITLE: EPISTLES TO ATTICUS PLACE: LONDON DA TE : 1806 COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT BIBLIOGRAPHIC MICROFORM TARGET Master Negative # Original Material as Filmed - Existing Bibliographic Record /■" 87GL1 JI Epistolae. ad Atticum Cicero, Marcus Tullius. ^^S* ^«*^«i^ Cicero's Epistles to Atticus, with notes, his- torical, explanatory and critical; translated by V/illiam Guthrie. •• A new edition, corrected and amended... London, Lackin^iton, 1806. 3 V. 22 cm. Title-pa;;e of v. 1, lackinf,; title from v. 2. Restrictions on Use: 759ly TECHNICAL MICROFORM DATA FILM SIZE: 3^Sn_Cn REDUCTION RATIO: [)j^2=^ IMAGE PLACEMENT: lA (^ IB IIB DATE FILMED: ^pJB^lS.! INITIALS.. RLMEDBY: RESEARCHTUBLICATIONS. INC WOODBRIDGE. CT c Association for Information and Image Management 1 1 00 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1 1 00 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 301/587-8202 Centimeter 1 2 3 iiiiliinliiiiliiiiliiiiiiiiiii TTT Inches 1 4 iliiii 10 11 12 13 14 15 mm 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 lllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll llMlllllllllllllllllll'I'm '('j'Tri I I I Tl I I ( ITI I I I I I If I I I I I I I I M M I M I .0 1.25 1^ 2.5 ,. |3.2 2.2 ■ 63 ^ M 2.0 i& *- ^ UlAte 1.8 1.4 1.6 MONUFfiCTURED TO PIIM STRNDRRDS BY APPLIED IMAGE. INC. '9> V' 'u *■» m^^. 'JHf: . !■ 1^' t «• ■3' >''"^'' "£.>■ ,.;^m A L b- Ll A ADVERTISEMENT. L' ' i X HE present edition has received many improvements which, in justice to the pro- prietors, ittis necessary to state. The cha- racter of Guthrie, as a translator, is known and approved ; and the estiniation in which he is held, has rendered it advisable, in- stead of offering the public a translation en- tirely new, to revise and improve that of which he is author. The letters of Cicero to Atticus, from a variety of causes, labour in ' many parts under obscurities, from which the other compositions of that eminent writer are 2;enerally free. The naked and abrupt conciseness with which, in the hurry and se- curity of confidential intercourse, he ex- presses his ideas ; the numerous allusions to private affairs, the knowledge of which has necessarily perished with that age ; the fre- quency with which he employs Greek terms, quotes, or alludes to, authors not known in A 2 modern !l IV ADVERTISEMENT. sD modern days, together with the loss of all the letters of xltticus, on which, in many parts, the language and ideas of his illus- trious friend depended, and which, if pre- served, would have illustrated with the evi- dence of facts, what now can be collected only from the uncertainty of conjecture, have rendered it a difficult task to translate them with accuracy, and impossible to invest them with that grace, richness, ease, and copious- ness, which distinguish the familiar epistles of Cicero. The errors which proceeded from these causes, or from the haste, negligence, or incompetence of the translator, have, it is presumed, in many places, been corrected in the present edition. The version has been compared w ith the original ; the sentences have often been moulded anew, or entirely changed ; the vulvar terms and phrases, which frequently occurred, exchanged for words and expressions less inelegant ; and passages which, from their obscurity or im- portance, demanded explanation, have been elucidated by critical notes. The transla- tor expressed the Roman coins by their equi- valent 4 - :< H ADVERTISEMENT. ▼ valent value in English money. Tliis, we conceive was an undue and unnecessary devi- ation from the original, and takes away the venerable air of antiquity, without imparting, in return, any advantage from modern orna- ment. In this edition the Roman denomina- tions of talents and sesterces have, therefore, been restored in their proper places, and their amount specified in English coin, at the bottom of the page. Finally, the Greek terms subjoined, with a Latin explanation, are expunged, as incongruous and unnecessa- ry ; and a translation, with critical remarks, is o-iven only of those citations, which appa- rently deserve the notice of a classic reader. These advantages, it is hoped, confer on the present Edition new claims to the approba- tion of the public ; and entitle it, as for as their respective nature will allow, to rank with the more elegant and approved trans- lations of Melmoth. The notes of the Editor, for the most part, are distinguished by the letter E, J, JONES. Qctoi'er 10, 1806. PREFACE. \ I HAVE now translated the collection of Cicero's Epistles to Atticus, a work more entertaining to read, bat more difficult to translate, than any literary composition of antiquity, and that for the following reasons : Not above seventy of the many thousands of letters written by Cicero, were collected by any one hand in his own life-time, with a view of publishing them. Upon the great revolution of the Roman empire, under Augustus Ctesar, such a publication must have been extremely danger- ous, on account of the freedom he uses with the emperor himself, the ministers of his power, and the constitution of his government Nepos, it is true, who was our author's friend and contem- porary, mentions seventeen books of his Epistles to Atticus, with elegant applause, but he makes ^ plain distinction between them, and the other work* ▼in PREFACJE.' works of our author, which were then public'. The reigns of the princes succeeding Augustus were still less favourable to public liberty, and therefore it is more than probable, that these epistles lay concealed in the cabinets of the cu- rious, and that, many years past before they re- ceived any critical inspection. This was one rea- son of the very great incorrectness and imperfec- tions of this work in the original, there being scarcely ten successive lines through the whole" in which the manuscript copies do notdifter froiii one another. But there is another, and a much more power- ful, reason for the difficulty of translating our authors epistles to Atticus. They are written in the language of friendship, a lan-^uage which friends alone understand. If there is anv mate- rial difference between human nature in that age and this, it lies in the conception of this virtue. The following pages evince, that there was a time, when friendship in the human breast could rise into a passion strong as their love, and sacred • Ei rei sunt indicio, prater eos libro.,, i„ quib,,s de co ficit menuonem, qui in valgus sunt editi, sexdecim volumina epis tolarum ab consulatu ejus usque ad extremum tempus ad At- ticum missarum. Ar ,^. ^ ^ep.Fit.Attid. PREFACE. h lacred as their religion, but without the impuri^ ties that sometimes debased the one, and the sui. perstition that always polluted the other. The friendship of our author for Atticus, is full of nice suspicions, delicate jealousies, kind fears, and fond endearments. It has every characteris- tic of violent, but virtuous, passion. It breathes every tender grace that delights the mind, and awakens every soft emotion that affects the heart. The lan^uase of the most enamoured poet to his mistress is faint, compared to the voice of Ci- cero's friendship for Atticus ; and were the fol- lowinty pages void of all other merit, the trans-? lator can boast of being the first who has revived in the English language, a virtue which has been go long numbered with the Fairy-tales, and there- fore, is as incredible in its effects, as it is inimi^ table in its expression. I am not sure whether the strongest friendships are not founded upon a dissimilarity of manners between the parties, by which ^ach endeavours to supply his own defects from the other's perfec- tions. Nothing could be more dissimilar in many respects than the manners of Atticus from those of our author. The former was magnificent, the latter elej^^ant. Cicero was the greatest scholar, but Atticus the better critic. The abilities of Cicerq PREFACE. PREFACE, %i Cicero were striking; those of Atticus were use- ful ; the one was inconstant, the other stable, Cicero was perpetually deviating from the prin- ciples he professed, w hile Atticus was constantly practising the virtues he disclaimed. Cicero had genius, but Atticus good sense. Cicero was often needy, Atticus was generally affluent. The €ne was sometimes rapacious that he might be profuse, the other was always frugal that he might be generous. The fortune of Cicero \\ as boisterous in both extremes ; but Atticus had the address to avoid extremes, and therefore, his life ran in an even, but gentle, current to its end, I'he passion of Cicero was that he might be admired ; that of Atticus that he might be beloved ; and there- fore, the former was rewarded with applause, the latter with happiness. Their sentiments seem to have been the same^as to public measures; but Atticus endured what he could not prevent, while Cicero approved of what he could not endure. A patriot would wish to die like Cicero, a wise man to live like Atticus ; but Cicero lived in tumult, and Atticus died in a pet. It would be easy for me to run this parallel into a greater length, but the defect is abund- antly supplied by the following sheets, especially in > in several of the notes I have taken the freedom to add. But after' all, our author and his friend had many virtues, and some qualities, in common with one another. They had the same suscepti- bility of heart ; they had the same tenderness of affection; they loved the same studies, and were fond of the same entertainments. There seems to have been an elegance and a quaintness in Atticus, down even to the form of his hand-writing, that characterised all his aciions, and seasoned all his discourse. The application of his wit in conversation, is often so adopted by our author in writing, that his meaning becomes frequently unintelligible. He catches at the rebound, every familiar phrase, every vernacularturn, every happy allusion, and sends them back to his friend, who is possessed of the key to decypher them ; for this correspondence is carried on through many let- ters, in what is no better than a cypher. The reader therefore, may easily judge of the infinite labour and application, to recover the key of this cypher, at such a distance of time, especially as not a single letter from Atticus remains to direct pur inquiry. I knqw %n PREFACE, PREFACE. Xlll I know to what censure I am liable, by the freedom I have taken with my author's character. But I know, at the same time, that half the learned fools in the world, have been made so, through their ridiculous prepossessions for great names. Ill would it have become me, to undertake the works I have executed, had I not thought myself free from all panics of that kind, and yet, the satisfaction of blaming where I must, is not half so agreeable, as the pleasure of com* mending where I can, is exquisite. But a terror in either, is unworthy any man, whose aim is to do justice. Dr. jVliddleton, a writer as tame in politics as he is bold in religion, has given us a history of our author's life, or rather an apology for his conduct ; which I will venture to say, no man of S€nse can think the Doctor would have published, had he imagined any one would have been pre- sumptuous enough to have given to the public, a fair and full translation of the epistles to At- ticus; because, almost every page of the followr ing sheets carries in it a refutation of what the Doctor has advanced, in vindication of our au- thor's tirmness, patriotism, prudence^ and con^ sistency with himself 0( Of all the works evef published, none perhaps, shews equally to this, what vile reptiles those men have been, who bear the greatest names in history. We here see, what a low, timid creature, the mighty Pompey was, though the voice of ages consent- ing with that of our author, has extolled him for integrity of manners, and greatness of spirit. But what are we to think of our author, whose public orations so much belied his private senti- ments^ The following pages represent the cele- brated Hortensius, as a little, spiteful lawyer ; the polite and brave Lucullus, as an indolent voluptuary ; the virtuous Cato, as a hot, wrong- headed fellow; and the amiable Brutus, as a peevish, positive, ill-mannered coxcomb. In one pao-e, we see our author's wife more dear to him than his eyes; in another he flings her from his bosom. Quintus, from being the best, be- comes the worst of brothers, and his son from being the worst, becomes the best of men. But of such instances in our author there is no end. We see here, a picture of human nature, mor- tifying indeed, but true ; because we sec it in all its beauties, and with all its blemishes ; with all its virtues, and with all its weaknesses. It is drawn by a hand that was intimate with the ori- ginal, XIV rRIFACE* PREFACE. XY ginal, nor does he dissemble that his own person furnishes the most striking likeness that he exhibits. I am well aware of what may be urged to vin- dicate some parts of our autliur's character, which I have thought to be exceptionable from his be- haviour in the case of Cataline's conspiracy. But I am singular enough not to believe half the bloody things, which are told us of that conspiracy, and I think, my incredulity might easily be justified, by a fair naked state of facts and evidence, even as laid down by our author, when compared with the other narratives, on which the credit of that conspiracy rests. It is on all hands allowed, that the senate of Rome, was at that time infamously degenerated, that the spirit of her government was lost, and the most salutary maxims of the republic perverted. In this state, it is no wonder if any unsuccessful attempt, to bring the consti- tution back to its first principles, was branded with the name of rebellion and conspiracy, by the men whose interest it was to crush it. I am far from asserting this to have been the case of Cataline's conspiracy : But, I will venture to as- sert, that it might have been the case, for all the evidence we have to the contrary. It is true, Sallust gives us a narrative of this conspiracy ; but !i but it is as true, that Sallust was the creature of Csesar, who was, at this time, meditating the destruction of his country, by different means, and who, for that very reason, perhaps, be- trayed Cataline and his friends. If that is the case, as appears extremely probable on the face of history, we can be at no loss to account, why, after Ctesar was possessed of supreme power, it became dangerous to disbelieve, and fashionable to believe, all the horrors of this conspiracy, and the credit of it, has stood unquestioned ever since. Meanwhile, I am sensible how tenderly historical evidence ought to be handled, lest in detecting what is false, we should weaken what is true. That there was, at that time a conspi- racy against thegovernment of Rome, is undoubt- edly true. But it is certain, likewise, from se- veral strong circumstances in the following letters, from the disagreement of authors upon the same facts, though living at the same time, and all of them' interested to have the belief of the conspi- racy established, but above all, from the defect of evidence, which appears even upon the face ofour author's orations, and the punishment he afterwards underwent, that it was not concerted with those bloody, frantic circumstances, that could justify his and the senates proceedings, in putting the conspirators to death in an illegal manner. jcvl PREFACE. PREFACE. xvii manner. This, however, is no place for my eri^ larging farther on this subject. But to return to the more immediate subject of these sheets; it is impossible to read the let- ters written by our author, under his exilcy without suspecting, that he was abandoned with- in his own breast, by that perpetual comforter, the testimony of a good conscience in a virtuous cause ; so great is his dejection, dcspondencyy and despair. But still the love of his Atticus^ triumphs in his soul ; sparkling amidst his afflic- tions, and unextinguished by his calamities. The reader must not expect to find all the fol- lowing pages equally entertaining and instructive. He is to consider, that one friend is talking to another, and that in friendship, trifles become of importance, while they become the tests of mu- tual affection. Neither is he to expect the same chastity of style, as in those works prepared by our author for the public ; no ; it is in many places negligent, and in some dangerous to be imitated. But I cannot give a more authentic, and at the same time, a more elegant and truQ description of the general importance and value of the following letters, than in the words of the noble friend of Atticus, I have already mention- ed. *' Wlioever, says he, reads those letters, ** will not think himself at a loss, for a con- " nee ted ^r nected history of those times. So well does V^ he describe the views of the leading men, the- '' faults of the generals, and the parties in the " state, that nothing is wanting for our infor- '^ mation, and we are naturally led to believe , '' that his sagacity was in a manner prophetic. ^' For Cicero, not only foretold what after- « wards happened in his own lifetime, but like *^ a prophet, he predicted the events that are *« now^ come to pass (l).'' The epistolary manner, does not permit Ci- cero to exert the whole extent of his genius in the following letters, for he sometimes checks it, if I may be allowed the expression, in mid-vol- ley. But the play of his lightnings is such, as discovers the bolt to be in the hand of a thun- derer ; his effulsiencies are those of divinity. Having said thus much of my original, I now come (1) Quae qui legat, non multum desideret historiam con- textam eorum tempororum. Sic enim omnia de studiis prin- cipum, vitiis ducum, aemulationibus reipublicae perscripta sunt, ut nihil in his non appareat ; & facile existlmari possit, prudentiam quodam mode esse divinationem. Non enim Cicero ea solum, quae, vivo se, acciderant futura praedixit, sed etiam, qu» nunc usu veniunt, cecinit, ut vates. Nepotis VUa Attici. Vol. I. . b xviu PREFACE. PREFACE. XIX come to speak of the translation. It would b« improper, nay, dishonest, for me to conceal the great obligations I owe to Monsieur Mongault. He is incomparably the best translator of his nation, and his work does him immortal honor. But he was a Frenchman, and he wrote in French. However fine his criticisms are, he had not, in translating, proved the armour of our author. His flimsy language sinks under the weight of Latin expression, and his tinselled manner is unequal to the graces of classical dig- nity. He gives us a sketch, and it is no more than a sketch, after his great original. The proportions are just, and the features discern- ible, but it is destitute of the passions, and the muscular strength. The defects, however, lie more in the language, than in the writer, and his criticisms go far towards making amends for his translation. But excellent as Monsieur Mongault is in his criticisms, upon the following epistles, I have taken the liberty to differ from him in many passages. This was unavoidable, considering the intense study I have bestowed upon my ori- ginal Both of us are charmed with the same object, but we have sometimes viewed it in dif- ferent i I ferent lights, through accident, rather than judgment. Nothing is more common than for English translators, to cloak ignorance and inability, under the terms of ease and freedom. They sink the words of an author into his meaning, when they are so happy, as to catch it, which they sometimes do by the help of a French translation. Sometimes they extend sentences through pages, and sometimes they croud a page into a sentence, under the stale apology, that tliey give the sense of their author; and they commonly fill a dozen pages of preface, to prove, that their work ought to read like an original, and that no man of spirit will submit to the drudgery of a literal translation. But the reader will give me leave to say, that not the smallest word of a great author ought to fall to the ground, if it can possibly be saved. An able translator, will do his best to be as just to his original, as the impression is to the seal, and by following this rule, his translation has a thousand times the chance to read like an origi- nal, than it has when he gives the reader some- thing that is half his own, and half his author's. But when 1 say this, I am so far from thinking it b2 an XX 1>11EFACE. PREFACE. XXI an easy matter to translate literally, that I think it requires the utmost compass and power of language, to make such a translation even tole- rable. Every school-boy, by the help of a dic- tionary, may translate literally, but the skill lies in the energy of expression, and the choice of words ; for a sentence may be translated literal- ly, fifty different ways, and not one of then^ bear the hand of a master. The noble translator of Pliny's epistles, has lately given us an eminent proof of what I have advanced above, and that the English, of all modern languages, is the best fitted to support the dignity of great writing, when it can Mork itself clear of those Gallicisms, which has pol- luted its current for these hundred years past. His lordship, like my great author, by address- ing his labours to his son, has shewn us the vir- tuous use of learning, but it is to be hoped with different effects. The son of Cicero contami- nated the honours of his father, and degenerated from his virtues. It is by the example and encouragement of the great alone, that the English can ever hope to bring their language to a classical standard. The study and imitation of the ancients, though absolutely 11 absolutely necessary towards this great end, pe- ver will be prevalent enough to get the better of false taste, unless it becomes fashionable to write with propriety. I flatter myself, and from n6 symptom so strongly, as from the experience I myself have had of public patronage, that I see a generous disdain of French imitation now gaining jiround in Endand. One spirited mea- sure might complete the triumph, and I wish it were executed, even though it is a French expe- dient; I mean, an academy for the perfection and purity of our language. This I think to bo practicable, and it is pity, that while private so- cieties are establishing academies for arts, in which the English never were, and probably ne- ver will be, eminent, while vast sums, to the lasting disgrace of learning, have been swallowed up /or its encouragement ; while expensive sub- scriptions are daily circulating for the support of stupid histories, and party-dullness, that not the most faint essay has been made towards so cheap, so easy, and so noble an undertaking, ^s what 1 have now taken the liberty to fncntion. I have not been so diffuse in the critical, ex- planatory, and historical notes upon my author, as f xxn PREFACE. as Monsieur Mongault has been, because he was confined to one work, which could be illustrated only from the other works of our author, and in those illustrations he has been obliged to be very ropious. But what was necessary in him, would be superfluous in me, as I intend (God willing) to translate the whole of my author's works. About ten years ago, I intimated that intention to the public, though the execution of it was in- terrupted, by that of a much greater under- taking. Hitherto, I have had no rivals in either; for the attempts which have been since made in both, are below censure, I had almost said, be- low contempt ! They who have the greatest ta- lent3 for such undertakings, are the best ac- quainted with their diflficulties ; and the ablest critic, will always be found the most candid. »\ CONTENTS OF VOLUME t JVILLIAM GUTHRIE. October 90, 1 7^1. BOOK I. The Letters of this book were written partly before Ciceroni consulship, and partly after, and contain many curious parti- culars concerning the prosecution of Clodius, and the opposi- tion Pompey met with upon his return from his Asiatic expe- dition, and they were written from the years of Rome 684, to 693. ^^g^ ^ BOOK II. Contains Cicero's letters to Atticus for seventeen months, with an account of all that passed with relation to the tribune- ship of Clodius, and the conduct of Caesar in his consulship, with the conspiracy of Vettius, and other incidents of great moment, both to the history of Rome, and of our author. They were written in the years of Rome 693, 694. P. 9* BOOK III. Contains the letters written|by Cicero during his exile, which lasted from the last of the month of March in the year of Rome 695, to August 1, in the year 69^. ^' ^^ BOOK IV. Contains an account of what happened to Cicero and the public of Rome, after his return from banislimeut ; and was written in the year of Rome 696. P- ^27 BOOK V. About thirty months passed between the last letter of the foregoing book, and the first of this, which contains, besidei mairy other important matters, the history of Cicero's procon- sulship in Silesia, during the year of Rome 702. P. 297 ^^' CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK I. EPISTLE I. From the intimacy subsisting between us, you, my friend, will easily conceive the affliction I felt, and the advantages, both in my business and fa- mily, which I lost by the death of our brother Lucius'. From him I enjoyed all that a man cam enjoy, from an agreeable and upright companion. I cannot therefore doubt that you share in my sorrow, both as you feel my afflictions, and as you yourself have lost a relation and a friend, richly adorned with virtue, with benevolence, and with an affection for you, which, by his own inclination^ as 1 Lucii fatris nostri : But in fact this Lucius was only cou- sin-german to Cicero, by his father's younger brother. He was likewise related to Atticus, whose sister was married to Cicero*-s brother. Cicero, in the fifth book de finilus, calls the same peri- son his brother by way of affection. Vol. L B S CICEROS EPISTLES as well as by my representation, he was disposed to cherish. As to what you write concerning your sister, slie will herself bear me witness how anxious I was, that the sentiments of my brother Quintus should be properly disposed in her behalf. As soon as I found him somewhat piqued, I wrote him letters, in which I soothed his affection ; I admonislied his weakness, and I reproached his inconstancy. I am therefore in hopes, from the letters he after- wards frequently wrote to me, that every thing, from that quarter, will be as they ought, and as we wish them, to be. You do me wrong in blaming my want of punctuality in our correspondence ; for our friend Pomponia never gives me advice of any person, to whom I can trust my letters. Besides, I hap- pened never to meet with a person who was going into Epirus, neither did I hear of your being at Athens. As to your affair with Acutilius, which you re- commended to me, I finished it as soon as I returned from you to Rome ; but it happened to be a mat- ter of little or no difBculty ; and as I knew you to be sufficiently prudent, I chose that Peduceus, ra- ther than I, should give you advice of it by letters. For, indeed, when I had, for several days, listened to Acutilius, with the tediousness of whose con- versation you are well acquainted, you cannot imagine that I could take any great pleasure in ac- quainting TO ATTICUS. 9 I quainting you with all his grievances, when I my- self suffered such a penance in hearing them. But now that you accuse me of remissness, you are to recollect, that I have received but one let- ter from you, though you have both more leisure, and more opportunities of writing than I have. You write me, that I ought to soften the little animosities, which a certain person has against you ; nor have I neglected to do what you thus insinuate. But, indeed, his humour is unaccount- able. I did not, however, omit to say every thing of you that was proper ; but, as to particular points to be insisted upon, I thought they ought to be determined by your pleasure only. If you will let me know what that is, 1 shall soon convince you, that I have made no greater advances than you yourself would have made, nor have I been more backward than you could have wished. Tadius has spoken to me concerning his affair, and told me, that he runs no risk, because the estate is become his own by the right of prescrip- tion. I am surprised you are ignorant, that when a guardianship conforms to the terms of the law,^ which I hear to be the case of the young i The case was this. The father of a young lady died without leaving her guardians, or a tutelapura; upon which, those next in kin assumed the guardianship, which was there- fore called tutela legitima. Tadius had, for some years, been m possession of an estate belonging to this young lady, and then B3 ^^^ I 4 CICERO'S EPISTLES young woman, prescription can confer no such right I am glad that you are pleased with your pur- chase in Epirus. I beg that according to your promise, you will remember, what I have recom- mended to you concerning whatever you judge suitable to my Tusculanum^, I mean, when you can do it without inconvenience : for in that gjiot I find repose from all my uneasiness, and all my toils, and there I daily expect my brother. My wife Terentia is dreadfully pained with the gout ; she has the most sincere regard for you, your sister and your mother, and joins with my little darling Tullia, in wishing you all manner of prosperity. her Jgnati, or nearest of kin, demanded the estate j he pleaded prescription in his own favour upon the opinion of Atticus, for which he is here blamed by Cicero. ^ This was the country seat or villa of Cicero, and if we are to believe him, it was laid out in a ver>' fine taste. It was situated in the antient Latium, and upon the same spot where the monastery of Gretia Ferrata is now built. *' There cannot," says Middleton, " be a better proof of the de- lightfulness of the place, than that it is now possessed by a con- vent of Monks, and called the Filia of St. Domink. Strange re- volution, to see Cicero's porticos converted to Monkish cloisters ! the seat of the most refined reason, wit, and learning, to a nur- sery of superstition, bigotry, and enthusiasm. What a pleasure roust it give these Dominical inquisitors to trample on the ruins of a man, whose writings, by spreading the light of reason and liberty through the world, have been one great instrument of obstructing their unwearied pains to enslave it." E. Mid. Life of Cicero, vol. i. p. 6. TO ATTICUS. # prosperity. I beg you will take caxe of your own health ; continue your affection for me, and be convinced that I love you as a brotlier. EPISTLE II. You shall have no farther cause to complain of my remissness in writing to you ; and you should take care that, as you have abundant leisure, you be as punctual in writing to me. Marcus Fonteius has given a hundred thousand and thirty serte- ces', for the house which Rabirius had at 1%- ples, and which you had already in imagination surveyed and finished. I thought proper to let you know this, in case you had any farther thoughts of that purchase. My brother Quintus seems to me to behave with all the affection we could wish towards Pomponia; they are now together upon their estate at Arpinum, and he has carried along with him Turranius, a man intelligent and useful. Our father departed^ on the 23d of November. This ' About six hundred pounds of our money. ^ Orig, patei' nobis decesdt A. D. viii. kal. Decemlr, 1 have translated this in the softest sense I could for the honour of Ci- cero., I am unwilling to think, that it is his father's death he mentions here in so light a manner, when he is so profuse in his encomiums upon the misfortunes even of his apquaintances, or that his near prospect of being raised to his highest honours of his country, had made him forget his duty to a parent, of whom. CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. U This is almost all that I have to tell you. If you find any productions in the fine arts which may serve to adorn this seat, so well known to you, I beg you would not neglect to purchase them. My charming Tusculanum is the only place that gives me the enjoyment of myself. Inform me, I pray, my friend, what you are doing, and what you are about to do. EPISTLE III. JLOUR Mother is well, and her health is one of my chief concerns. I am bound to pay twenty thousand four hundred serteces^ to Lucius Cin- cius, on the 13th of February. I beg you will take care that I have, as soon as possible, the things which you have bought or procured for me. I likewise entreat that, agreeably to your promise, you would always bear in mind the augmentation of my library. All the pleasure which I hope to enjoy in my leisure hours, proceeds from the pros- pect of your elegant society. whom, so far as we know of, he had no reason to be ashamed. But, indeed, if this letter was wrote, as it most probably was, -towards the end of the year of Rome 685, or the beginning of 686, the father's death is premature by at least three years, if according to Asconius, the ancient scholiast, he did not die till Cicero stood for tiie consulship. * About one hundred pounds, EPISTLE » EPISTLE IV. i Your affairs areas prosperous as your friends can wish them to be. My brother Quintus and I, esteem and love your mother and sister. 1 have spoken with Acutilius ; he denies tliat he has re- ceived any advice from his agent, and is surprised how that misunderstanding could arise in his refusing to give you security' against all farther demands. You mention that you have put an end to the affair of Tadius, who, I understand is well satisfied with your decision, and wonderfully plea- sed with your kindness. Lucceius, a man of the highest worth, and united to me in the closest friendship, is much displeased with you If 1 knew what regard you pay to his anger, I should then know in what manner to act. According to your advice, I paid to Lucms Cm- cius, twenty thousand four hundred serteces for the statues from Megara. The Mercuries of Pentelic marble, with heads of brass, as you described 1 Om. Quod ilk recusarit satisdan. This kind of secu- rity, or discharge in fuU, seems to have been usual at the fimsh- ing all difterences amongst 4e Romans, and the menUon of .t isfrequently to be met with in U« writings of the.r au hors_ > Orig. Herm^ tui Pentdki cum captttbuf cents. From thi, letti the reader may have some idea of the e^jn j^ J^ S CICERO S EPISTLES described them to me, now afford me the highest gratification ; I beg therefore that you would send them to me, with the statues, and every thing else that you shall think suitable to this place, to my collections, and to your own fine taste ; as many of them, and as soon, as possible, especially those that are ornamental for a study and a gallery. For I am so passionately devoted to these objects of refinement that, while I am censured as extrava- gant by others, I am gratified only by you. If the ship, belonging to Lentulus, is not ready, do you put them onboard any vessel you please. My charming TuUiola demands her little present, and has obtained my security for tlie fulfilment of your promise. But I am more disposed to re- nounce, than to fulfil, my engagement. TO ATTICUS. ft EPISTLE V. 1 HEAR too seldom from you, though you can find more conveyances for Rome than I can for Athens ; and I am more certain to be found in the former, magnificence of Cicero's Tusculanum. Megara was a city of Attica, famous fer a beautiful kind of marble. The Pentelic marble was so called from its being of five colours, according to Pausanias. The figures here mentioned, I take to have been what we call Therms, or the heads of Mercury, HercuUs, or any other head, of brass, upon a marble pedestal, and as high as ^n ordinary person, ratlier than statues. former, than you in the latter city. And this uncertainty is the cause of my brevity ; for not knowing where you may be, I am unwilling, that a letter so colloquial, should fall into the hands of strangers. I am excessively impatient for the Megaric sta*- taes, and the Mercuries which you have promised sue in your letters. Don't scruple to send me every thing of that kind that shall fall in your way, and may be proper for my academy, and you may depend upon immediate payment^ This is the only pleasure I now pursue ; I am in search of every thing that is ornamental for a study. Len- tulus promises to convey them in his ships. I beg that you would carefully mind those particulars. Chilius^ entreats you, and I join in his entreaty, that you will send hither the rites of the Eumol- pidae. 1 Orig. Arcce nostrce corifidito. Solvere ex area, amongst the Romans, was a payment made in ready cash, in contradis- tinction to solvere ex mensa, when the creditor went for pay- ment to one of the public bankers. 2 He was a poet, and the Eumolpidce were certain priests of Ceres Elusynum, with an account of whose rites Chilius, perhaps, intended to enrich his poems. EPISTLE 10 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE VI, W HEN I was at Tusculanum, (so^ much for your ** when I was at Ceramicus.") But, to be serious, when I was there, a young slave, from your sister, brought nie a letter from you, and told me that a messenger was to go off express for you that very afternoon. It was therefore proper that I should write somewhat in answer to your letter, though the shortness of the time makes me very brief. In the first place then, I engage to appease, if not entirely to reconcile, our friend Lucceius. Though of myself I endeavoured to do this be- fore, yet I will now act with double diligence, and apply to him with double zeal, as I perceive from your letter, that you are so earnest in that matter. You must, however, understand that he is exceedingly offended ; but as I see no reason he has * There Is a good deal of humour here. Atticus had begun his letter, " When I was at Ceramicus/' which was a place ly- ing without the walls of Athens, where their greatest generals and citizens had been buried at the public expence, and was adorned with their monuments and statues. This then being one of the roost celebrated parts in the world, Cicero, in a humour- ous kind of contrast, opposes to it his Tusculanum, without fore- seeing that a time would come when the name of Tusculanum would survive that of Ceramicus. TO ATTICUS. 11 has to be so, I am in great hopes that he will be influenced by my advice and authority\ I beg that you will put on board as soon as you conveniently can, our statues and the Mercuries, which you mentioned, with every other ornament and production calculated to adorn a place, with which you are acquainted, and which is intended for elegance and study. For now that I am upon the spot, the place and the appearance of it dictate all I write. Be so good likewise as to procure me some mouldings, which I can employ upon the ceiling of my entry, and for embossing lids for my two fonts. Pray take care how you dispose of your li- brary^ to any one, let him bid for it ever so high ; for I am saving all my perquisites, that I may be able to purchase that relief for my old age. My brother's conduct, I am persuaded, is conformable to what I have always wished and endeavoured ; amongst many other proofs of his attachment, is the tenderness with which he treats your sister, in her present advanced prospect of a family. As 1 Orig, Conjido ilium fore in officio. This expression is very philosophical, and is best understood by the system of morals laid down by our author in other places. 2 Pomponius Atticus was a great ceconomist, and conse- quently had it in his power to do many generous things. In this last light, and that of a man of fine taste, both in life and litera- ture, he stands amongst the most amiable characters of antiquity. The library here mentioned was composed of books, transcribed by certain learned slaves he kept for that purpose, and which he s iold for money. 12 CICEHO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 13 - As to my standing for the Prtetorship, I remem- ber I gave you leave of absence, and so I have acquainted your friends, who might otherwise ex- pect you. I am so far from soliciting, that I even prohibit, your attendance ; because I am persua- ded it is much more for your interest to be em- ployed as you now are, than it could be for mine, for you to be present at my election. I therefore beg you to be as much at ease on that head as if you were residing where you are, only to negotiate my concerns. Assure yourself you shall find and hear, tliat my sentiments, with regard to you, shall be the same as if I succeeded, not only by your presence, but even by your interest. Tulliola has 5€t you a day to answer in person, and discharges my engagements for your performance. EPISTLE VII. 1 WAS doing' this of my own accord, before I received your letters ; and those two which you have since sent me, strongly dispose me to accom- plish the same purpose. Sallust was your faithful assistant in prompting me to employ all my endea- vours in treating with Lucceius about his being re- conciled 1 This epistle seems to me to begin with a beautiful abrupt- ness, alluding to a former letter of Pomponius on the subject of his difference with Lucceius. conciled to your former favour. But after I had laboured all I could, I found myself not only una- ble to recover his former affections for you, but even to discover the reason why his sentiments are altered. He pretends, however, tliat his resent- ment is owing tp that arbitration of yours, and some other circumstances that gave him offence be- fore you left this place ; but there assuredly exists some other cause that is more deeply rooted in his mind ; a cause that neither your letters nor my agency can so effectually remove, as you could, were you present in person, by your discourse, and that engaging look, which you know so well how to assume ; if you think the matter worth so much, (as you certainly will) if you regard my ad- vice, and act consistently with your own urbanity. Be not, however, surprised, that I am now diffi- dent about what I wrote before, when I acquainted you that I was in hopes he would act by my direc- tion. The obstinacy I find in him is not to be be- lieved, no more is the stubbornness of his resent- ment ; but he will either be cured of all these when you arrive, or, wherever the fault may be, they will have disagreeable consequences with re- gard to him. As to what you write me, as if I was already no- minated to the Praetorship\ I can assure you, that, ^ Orig, Me jam arbitrari designatum esse. This must be understood of the Praetorship, though it is not named. It was plainly I 14 CICERO'S EPISTLES that, at this time, at Rome, the candidates for pub-' lie offices, of all people in the world, are the most conversant in dirty practices ; neither is it known when the election will come on* ; you will, how- ever, hear farther from Philadelphus. In the mean while, I beg that you will send me, with the first opportunity, whatever you have procured for my academy. It is surprising how much I am de- lighted, not only with living at that place, but even with thinking of it Indeed, I would have you take care to whom you dispose of your books; reserve them for me, as you promised me in your letter. My attachment for them is equalled only by the ill humour I feel for every thing else. It is incredible in what a wretched state, for so short a time, you will find public affairs, compared to what you left them in. plainly wrote before the next epistle but one, that follows, and it is certain that Atticus returned to Rome before Cicero wa» named to the consulship. * The intrigues of the candidates this year were so flagrant in putting off the time for the elections, which ought to have been about the middle of July, that they gave rise to the Corne- lian and Calphurnian law for regulating them, so called, for iti being moved for by the Tribune Cornelius, and drawn up by the Consul Calphurnius Piso. EPISTLE TO ATTICUS. 15 EPISTLE VIII. Do you know that your grandmother is dead^ of , her longing to see you, and of her apprehen- sion, lest the Latin old women^ should neglect their duty in bringing their victims to mount Alba ? I suppose that Lucius Saufeius will dispatch an epistle consolatory to you on that occasion. We expect you here about January. Pray is this founded upon idle rumour, or upon your letters to other people ? for you have not mentioned a word of it to me. The statues, which you procured for me, are landed at Gaieta. I have not yet seen them; because I have not yet had so much leisure as 1 1 do not know whether Cicero's pleasantry, on so serioui an occasion, as the death of his friend's grandmother, is quite agreeable to genuine sense and feeling. Somewhat, however, may be said in alleviation of this freedom, when we consider it as a kind of satire upon the Epicurean principles of Atticus, which were far from being favourable to the pious affections of a child towards a parent. It is upon the same account, that he mentions Lucius Saufeius, who was a professed Epicurean, as a proper comforter to Atticus on this occasion. 2 The Feritr Latince were yearly celebrated by the appoint- ment of the consuls, upon the Alban mount, in memory oi the union of the Latins, and the neighbouring people whom he had fubdued. It was a kind of a feast to which the inhabitants of forty towns contributed, and the sacrifices were performed with so much superstitiSn, that Cicero sneers at the performers by the name of Latince, or Latin old women. 16 CICERO S EPISTLES as to leave Rome. I have sent money to discharge their freight, and am extremely obliged to you for making liie purchase w ith so great a care, and at so small an expence. As to what you have often mentioned in your letters to me, concerning appeasing our friend, I have tried every expedient ; but he is incredibly averse to reconciliation. I suppose you have heard the grounds of his resentment. But you shall know the whole trutli when I see you. Though Sallust was present with me, our united influence proved ineffectual in regaining his former good will. I write this, because he used to blame me for my remissness concerning you ; but he has now himself experienced, how untractable Lucceius is, and that I have not been wanting in my diity to you. I have promised my daughter Tulliola to Caius Piso, the son of Lucius Frugi. EPISTLE IX. y ou raise in us frequent hopes of seeing you ; and even lately, when we expected you already arrived, we were suddenly informed of your de- lay until the month of June. Now% indeed, I am of opinion, that you ought to come at the time you appointed, if you can conveniently. You will then be present at my brother's election, will see me after a long absence, and adjust your diife- rence r TO ATTICUS. 17 rence with Acutilius. It is the opinion of Pe- duceus, that I should give you an intimation of this ; for we think it is your interest that you should put an end to that affair ; my services in this respect, always have been, and always shall be ready \ I have 1 This fixes the dates of those letters, and justifies the order into which I have thrown them. Cicero would not have judged Macer, unless he had been Praetor, which he certainly was in the year of Rome 688^ under the consulship of Mar- cus iEmilius Lepidus, and Lucius Volcatius Tullus. This Macer had been governor of Asia, and had been accused of corrupt practices by the people of that province. He was so sure by his own interest, and that of Crassus, to be acquitted, that he came during the time of his trial, in a kind of triumph to the senate-house, and finding that he had been unanimously condemned, he went home and died of grief, according to Plutarch , but according to Valerius Maximus, he put himself to deaths that he might save his estate to his family. But I can't help thinking that Cicero's translators and com- mentators have all of them mistaken this passage. The origi- tial is. Cm cum cequi fuissemus , tamen multo major em Jructum expopuli exlstimatione , illo damnato, cepimuSj quam ex ipsius, si alsolutus esset, gratia cepissemus. Monsieur St. Real, after Minutius, translates the words, Cui cum cequi fuissemus.—^ Quoique je naye fait en le condamnant , que ce a quoifetois oblige en justice. Monsieur Mongault translates it, — Quand 7* auroispu Ini etre favorable. But we are to consider that this Macer, by Cicero's own account (vide Brutus, cap. 238.) was no contemptible orator, and according to Seneca, he was his rival in eloquence. Minutius, and all who have followed him, have fallen into a common, but a very mistaken opinion, as if Cicero, because he was the Pro?tQr, was therefore the judge in this trial. Vol. I. C and 18 CICEROS EPISTLES 1 have here gone through the affair of Caius Macer, to the inexpressible satisfaction of the public and had it in his power to be favourable to the accused party. But this was far from being tlie case ; for a Praetor in such trials had no more power than to collect the votes of the jurymen, and to give sentence according to their verdict. Monsieur Mongault is indeed right in translating the word cequus here favourable, but he is mistaken as to tlie occasion upon which it was used ; and Casaubon, in his note upon this passage, in finding fault with Valerius Maximus, has fallen himself into a great many blunders. Valerius tells us, that when Macer un- derstood the sense of the court to be against him, he strangled himself, sending, at the same time, a messenger to Cicero, acquainting him that he died under accusation, but before his condemnation, " Se non damnatum, sed reum periisse,'' and that his goods could not be put up to public auction, " Nee suo, hona hastce posse suhjici.^ Casaubon endeavours to shew, by many authorities from the civil law, that, Valerius, he should have said Macer, was mistaken in the conceit of saving his estate from confiscation, by dying before judgment. But we are to observe, that those authorities are all drawn from the imperial constitutions after the dissolution of the republic, and can be of no weight against the positive assertion of Valerius Maximus, who lived soon after Cicero. Cicero, according to the same author, receiving this message, forbore to pronounce judgment (Qua cognita, de re Cicero nihil pr This story, and the character of Clodius, as weU as the whole management of Pompey towards our author, will- be farther explained in the course of these letters. Vol. I. D V k \ 34 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS, 35 your third from on board your ship, after weigh- ing anchor. All these flow with great purity of language ; sparkle with urbanity and wit, and are marked with affection. These letters, indeed, are such as to demand from me an immediate an- swer; but have delayed writing, only because I could not find a sure conveyance. For where is the person, who will carry a letter of any Height, without relieving himself by reading it over r Besides this, I did not know of any one going to Epirus. For I thought that after you had settled your affairs, and performed the proper rites at home, you would instantly set out upon your expedition against Sicyon, to lay it under contribution '. I am even in an uncertainty as to the time when you go to Antonius, or how many days you will spend in Epirus ; I am therefore unwilling to trust to persons either from Achaia or Epirus, with letters that are written in the stile of familiar freedom. Some incidents since your departure, ^ The originalis. Ego enim te arliiror, ca'sis apud Alma- thceum victimis, statim esse ad Sicyonem oppugnandam pro- fectum. The language is metaphorical and sportive. The pea- pie of Sicyon were in debt to Atticus, and he was going there to recover it. This Cicero describes in military terms, as though Atticus were a general, proceeding to besiege that city, and lay it under contribution. Amalthteaox Amalthceum was a villa of Atticus, so called, perhaps, from its opulence and splendour. At the commencement of a war or expedition, rt was th.i piactice to oifer sacrifice io order to ensure success. — E. ^i / f tieparture, however, have happened, not unworthy to be communicated in writing ; but they are such as I do not choose to expose to the danger of being lost, opened, or intercepted. You are therefore, in the first place, to know that I was not the first whose opinion was de- manded, and the' conqueror of the AUobroges was preferred to me. This was not done mdeed without some murihuring from the senate, though it met my approbation. For I am thereby disen- gaged from my obligations towards a capricious man, and at liberty to maintain my own dignity in the state against his humours. Add to this, that the second voice is an authority almost equal to the first, and is not made so dependent by the good offices of the consul. Catulus votes the third, and if you want to know more, Hortensius is the fourth. The consul himself, possessing a mean and narrow mind, resembles one of those buffoons, whose figure is ludicrous ; who excite mirth rather by their looks than by their pleasan- tries. To him the people are indifferent, the no- bles odious ; from him his country has no room to hope for aught that is good, because he wants in- clination to perform it; or to fear aught that is bad, because he is without the courage to attempt it. As 1 Viz. Caius Rso. D2 9S CICERO'S EPISTLES As to his colleague Metellus, he treats me with respect. He both affects and maintains the cha- racter of a patriot; nor indeed is there a very good understanding between them. But I am apprehensive, lest this affair, which is still depending, may be too long protracted. I suppose you have heard, tliat when the sacri- fice for the peo[)le was performing at Caesar's house, a man went tliere in a female habit ; that the virgins recommenced the sacrifice ; that a mo- tion concerning it was made by Cornilicius in the senate, I say, was made by Cornificius, lest you might suspect that it was introduced by either of the consuls ; that afterwards, the matter, by the decree of the senate, was referred to the priests, and by them pronounced to be sacrile- gious ; that, upon this, the senate ordered the consul to carry it, by way of information, before the people, and that Caesar has repudiated his wife. In this cause, Piso, actuated by his friend- ship for Publius Clodius, earnestly wishes that the information, which he himself is to prefer, and to prefer it too by an order of the senate, and upon a religious account, should be quashed Messala hitherto acts with spirit and severity. Your men of quality, through the intercessions of Clodius, disliked the proceeding ; forces are mustering ; our bench, who at first in this cause behaved like so many inflexible patriots, becomes daily more and more pliable. Cato is keen and pressing. TO ATTICUS. 37 \ • pressing. In short, I am apprehensive, lest this affair, neglected by the great, and defended by the wicked, may be the source of many calami- ties to our country. But, as to that friend \ known to you and concerning whom you wrote to me, not daring to blame, he began to praise, me, and gives me now strong proofs of his affection. He caresses, loves, commends, me in public ; but all this he does in such a manner as plainly shews that he secretly hates me. He has about him nothing of the gentleman, nothing of the honest man. There is in him nothing graceful, nothing noble, nothing brave, nothing free in his sentiments of govern- ment. But I win write more particularly on this head at another time ; for I am neither, as yet, well enough acquainted with the matter, and I know not enough of the clow n" w^ho carries this, to trust him w ith a letter of such consequence. The provinces are not, as yet, allotted to the Prsctors, and that affair stands just as you left it I shall enclose to you, in my oration, the de- scription of Mycenae and Puteoli, which you required. I understand that I was mistaken in the date of the 3d of December, I own that I was ^ Pompey. 2 Orig. Terrccfilio, to a son of the ear//i, which hi the Jewish scriptures means, a tiller of the land, bat here signities a pea" sanJt or uncouth rustic. E. 38 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 39 was beforehand strongly prepossessed in favour of the passage of my orations, which you recom-^ mend, though I durst not say so much ; but now that they have your approbation, their beauties appear more truly Attic. I have added some- what to my speech against Metellus ; I send you the book, since your affection for me has given you a taste for oratory. What can I entertain you with besides? Now that I think of it, the consul JMessala has bought the house that belonged to Autronius, for four hundred thirty seven million serteces. What is that to me, will you say? It serves only to shew, that I am justified in my purchase, and that men begin to think, they may advance to political consequence, by purchasing estates with the pro- perty of their friends. That affair with the Tro- jan lady goes but slowly on ; but still I have hopes. Do you perform what I have recom- mended to your care ? You may depend upon a more unreserved letter from me. Dated Janu- ary 25, in the consulship of M. Messala an^ M. Piso. ./ EPISTLK EPISTLE XIV. It would look like affectation in me, should I tell you how much business I have upon my bands ; but indeed, I have so much, that I scarce have time for writing this short letter ; and the little I have is snatched from affairs of the high- est consequence. I have already written to you concerning the character of Pompey's first ha- rangue. It gave no comfort to the wretched, it had no weight with the wicked. To the great it came without gracefulness, and to the good with- out dignity. The whole of it therefore was in- sipid. After that, Fusius, a very pragmatical tri- bune of the people, by the instigation of the consul Piso, introduced Pompey to the assem- bly. This happened in the Flaminian circus; where, on that day, was kept a magnificent fair. He demanded of him, whether he was of opinion that the Praetor should choose the judges ; and by whose counsel, the said Praetor, was to be directed. This was meant of the sacrilege of Clodius, which had been appointed to be tried by the senate. Then Poppey spoke in high terms of the nobles ; and in his answer, took great pains to persuade them how greatly he valued, and how greatly he always had valued, the autho- rity of the senate in all matters. Afterwards, the consul IVIessala, in the senate, demanded of • Pompey 40 CICERO^S EPISTLES Pompey his sentiments concerning the sacrile*^, and the bill which he had carried before the peo- ple. In reply to this, Pompey expressed his ge- neral approbation of all that had been done by that assembly; and, as he sat down by me, he told jne, that he thought he had given a satisfactory answer concerning the matters in question. Crassus, perceiving that he prepossessed tho assembly in his favour, upon the presumption that he approved of my consulship, stood up and spoke of it in very magnificent terms. He went so far as to say, it was owing to me that he was still a senator, and citizen o^ Rome ; that he en- joyed liberty; that he enjoyed life ; that, as often as he beheld his wife, his family, and his country, he was reminded of his obligations to me. In short, on that common topic, the general delive- rance from fire and sword, which in great variety pf colours, drawn from sources known to you, I described in those orations, of which you sat the supreme judge, he dwelt with uncommon dig- nity. I was sitting next to Pompey ; I perceived that he w as greatly agitated, being at a loss to know whether Crassus wanted to cultivate that favour which he had neglected, or whether my actions were really so glorious as to deserve un- sought applauses in the senate, especially from a man who had so little reason to run so much out in my praises, as, in all my letters, he had been mortified with tlie compliments I had paid to Pom- pey. TO ATTICUS. 4t pey. This occasion rendered me extremely inti- mate with Crassus ; and, "whatever might have been his secret feelings, I cheerfully accepted of Pompey, as if he really meant, the civility, which he openly expressed. But as to myself, immor- tal gods ! What display I made of my talents be- fore Pompey, who till then had never heard me. Then, if ever, I exhibited all my skill in the har- mony of my periods, in the adjustment of my sentences, in enforcing and proving my facts ; in a word, I was accompanied with the loudest applause. The subjects of my eloquence were the wisdom of the senatorial, the unanimity of the equestrian order ; the tranquillity of Italy ; the expiring remains of the conspiracy. I spoke of corruptions removed, of peace restored. You know with what pomp of language I speak on these topics. I need not enlarge upon it The shouts which I excited were such, as must, before this, have reached your ears'. As 1 Whatever the eloquence of Cicero was employed to deli- neate and enforce on this occasion, it depicts in colours equally clear, the predominant passion of his mind. This was vanity, and every reader of moral refinement must be disgusted with it The greatRoman orator betrays a weakness in this respect, which would be intolerable even in a schoolboy of the present day^ The terms n.^^o^o., Kocf^wx^, .v0./x.fxar«, x«r« viz. the Senatores, the Equites, and the Trf^ buni aerarii, which last were a kind of bankers or trustees iQt!._ the public money, and were no other than the richer sort of citizens, who neither were noblemen nor knights. The com- mon reading of the original in this passage is, Tribuni non tarn €prati quamy ut appellantur cerarii. But I think the- sense it more clear, when we read with other copies, Trihuni non tdni tjeraiii quam ut appellantur cerati, and Cicero's jingle, as I have translated it, answers exactly in our language. Vol. I. E 50 CICERO'S EPISTLES came under their deliberation, and, in this, th^y were unanimous; no indulgence was shewn to the accused, the accuser obtained more than he asked for. You will easily believe that Horten- shis was now not a little vain of his foresight. There was not a man who saw Clodius standing at the bar, but looked upon him as a thousand times condemned. But when I came to give my evidence, I dare to say, you have already heard from the clamours of the friends of Clodius, how the judges rose and surrounded me, how cheer- fully did they seem to offer to Clodius their own lives, as pledges of my safety. I considered this as a circumstance more honourable for me, than that which happened to Xenocrates, when your Athenian citizens admitted his evidence without suffering him to be upon oath, or to Metellus Numidicus, when our judges refused to inspect his books of accounts, after they were presented to them in the course of his trial. The honour done me, I repeat, was greater than all that Clodius therefore was daunted by the expressions of the judges, when they defended me, as they would have done the well-being of their country, and at the same time his advocates were dejected. Next day, the same crowd re- sorted to my house, which had attended me, when I returned home, at the expiration of my consul- Our ^O AtTICUS. 51 I bur upright judges called out, that they ^ould not assemble unless a guard was ap- pointed them. This matter was debated, and only one member was found, who did riot desire the guard. The thing was then carried before the senate, where it was grarlted in a ttiost formal, honourable manner; the judges were com^ mendedj the providing the guard was committed to the magistrates; nor was there a man found who imagined that Clodius would stand his trial. Nmv sdy my musfe, how this first fit e began^, fo speak in the language of Homer. You krio\^ hiy bald panegyrist', whose oration in my praise, I mentioned to you in a former letter, I liieati the purchaser of pi'oscribed estate^. In two days time, by m^ans of a slave, a slave too taken out of a fehcihg-school, he finished the whole affair. He called the judges to him, he promised, he persuaded, he bribed them* Nay, (good God ! what an age do we live in) soogi? * Orig. Nasti calvum, ex Nanejanis ilium, ilium laudatyrem meum. The Naiiejii were a set of men, who had been pro- scribed by Sy 11a, andCrassus (who is here spoken of,) h^ by pUrqhasing their estate* ijt a low iiatf . wtt CICEROS EPISTLES some of the judges, besides their wages of cor- ruption, were proiaised to spend some nights with certain ladies, and favours from certain young men of quality. This occasioned the upright judges to retire, and the forum to be filled with slaves. Twenty-five of the judges, however, were so deternuned, while tliey were threatened with the greatest dangers, that they chose to pe- rish themselves, rather than see their country undone. But thirty-one of them obeyed the calls of hunger, rather than of honour. Catulus, seeing one of them, asked him, *' To what pur- pose, did you demand a guard from us ? Was you afraid to be robbed of the money that bribed you ?" Thus have I given you a brief account of the trial, and the cause of the acquittal. Your next question is concerning the state of the republic in general, and my situation in par- ticular. Know then, that the government, which you thought to have been re-established by my wisdom, while I ascribed its re-establish- ment to the providence of the gods, tftat govern- ment, which, by the concurrence of the virtu- ous, and by the authority of my consulship, seemed to be fixed upon a sure foundation, un- less, indeed, some deity shall interpose in our favour, is snatched from our hands \ by this sin- / gle 1 Elapsum scito esse de manilms. The commentators have here TO ATTICUS. 53 gle trial, if that can be called a trial, which was the verdict of thirty profligate, prostitute, and ■corrupted Romans, in violation of all law, human and divine; for Talna, Plautus, and Spongia, and other similar insignificant wretches, decreed that not to be a fact, which was known to be a fact> not only to men, but even to brutes themselves, i But after all, (to give you some consolation concerning our country) the triumphs of the wicked in their victory are not so unclouded as their friends hoped. For, after having thus wounded the commonwealth, they thought, no doubt, upon the downfal of religion, of modesty, of public justice, and senatorial authority, that prostitution and licentiousness would trium- phantly demand severe vengeance from every man of virtue, for the pains and penalties which the severity of my consulship inflicted upon every profligate Roman. I am the man (for I do not think that I am insolently boastful when I speak to you concerning myself, especially in a letter which 1 would read to no other person) I, let me repeat it, am the very man who have re-animated the good among my dejected countrymen, con- firming here let a most beautiful allusion pass unobserved. The great diversion in the Roman farces, which were in dumb show, consisted in the fellow who acted Harlequin, slipping out of the hands of his keepers or pursuers. It is to this Cicero jdludes, and I have translated it accordingly. M CICERO'S EPISTLES firming their hopes, and dispelling their feara. By pursuing and harrassing those venal judges, I have even so far succeeded, as to leave their friends and followers no cause to boast of their infamous victory. Never have I suffered the consul Piso to succeed in any one thing. After being in a manner united tp the government of Syria, I have separated him from it I have re- called the senate to its former vigour, and raised it from its dejection; I have humbled .Clodius when he appeared in the house, not only with a long and elaborate speech, which was full of energy, and in which I personally addres- sed myself to him, and censured his conduct; and of which I shall only give you a specimen ; for the whole of it has neither force nor beauty, when that fire, which glowed in it, is extin- guished, and which you Greeks call action. | For when we met in the senate-house, upon the 15th of May, when I came to give my opi- nion, I enlarged upon the supreme authority of government, and I was led by diyiae inspiration, to this subject; *' That the conscript fathers f* should neither die a\yay, nor drpop upon tlie " commonwealth's receiving one blow ; that her f * wound was of such a nature, as ought to be neither disguised nor dreaded, lest we incur the censure of indolence from our cowardice, f ' or of folly from our ignorance ; That Len- t^ tulus was twice, that Catiline was twice ac- *^ quitted i it €i TO ATTICUS. 55 tt a quitted; that this was the third plague that " had been let loose by the courts of justice « upon the commonwealth. Clodius, contmued " I YOU are mistaken, you are reserved by your " iudses, not for this city, but for its prison. " Their intention was not to continue you in the «' state but to bar you from banishment. There- fore ' conscript fathers, resume your courage, retain your dignity. The good are still una- i- nimous in the cause of our country. Sorrow " has indeed happened to the virtuous, but their » virtue is still the same; no new mischief has « been committed, that which existed before is '' discovered. In the trial of one profligate per- «' son, many others have been found to be as " criminal as himself," , , , . But, what am I doing ? I have enclosed almost an oration in my letter; I return to the liti- gation I had with Clodius. The efFemmate youth* rises and replies; "when supposed to '^ commit 4C . Meaning Clodius, who was very handsome. ^^^^ h,s s^ name happened to be Pulcher. I own myself not to be ex- ceTvely fondof the wit that follow, here : but .t.s proper the SeT should know that Arpinum. the native country of C.ce^. wasrLLh. mountainous, and remarkable for it> ~bust .nha- ZZ^ tLat the Baj» was the finest place in Italy, and conse- Sut W the resort of all the gay and the wanton of N>th sexe. St Cicero imagined that Clodia. th. sister of Clodms upon Sse interest cTodius chiefly depended, wanted, upon a Ume^ m CICERO'S EPISTLES commit the imputed crime I was at Bajae." Thai is false, but what if I was ? Is that like going in disguise to forbidden mysteries. What, cried he, has a plain man of Arpinum to do with warm baths ? That, answered I, I refer to the person who keeps yo\i\ and who longed for the water of Arpinum. As for you, you can take up with salt provisions. Shall we always suffer, said he, this king to have his will ? Why do you mention the king's wilP I rejoined ? I assure you he has not put you into it as yet ; alluding to his expect- ing the estate of his brother-in-law Quintus Martius Rex. You have bought a housed have not you, continues he? Yes; but you have bought judges, answered I. They would not trust you upon your oath, said he. Twenty-five out of twenty to have married him, and that Clodius himself, having been formerly taken by the Pyrates was thought to have purchased hts release at an infamous rate. There is, besides, in this pas- sage, an allusion, which is not quite decent to explain. We can, however, collect from it the great regard which was still paid, even in that degeneaated state of the Roman republic, to the severity of manners. 1 Meaning his sister Chdia. The original is Narra patrono iuo, * I think I have not been unhappy hi translating this passage, though the wit of it is founded upon a miserable pun, the name of one Rex, from whom Clodius expected a legacy. * Cicero had bought a magnificent palace at so extravagant a rate, and attended with such circumstances, as tailed many dis- advantageous suspicions of his integrity. "^^ JtO ATTICUS. 57 twenty-six, replied I, trusted me, but the other thirty one, because they would not trust you, took their money beforehand. Upon this the laugh was so loud, and went so much against him, that he sat down stupid and silent As to my sitxiation, it is as follows. 1 stand the same as you left me, with all men of virtue, b«t much better with the scum and dregs of the city. For it has done me no.hurt, that they' saw my evidence was not regarded. This was but the sting of envy, which inflicted no pain, because the abettors of that wicked affair confessed the plain truth, that the acquittal was obtained by the force of money. Add to this, that the same -wretched, hungry mob, that loquacious leech of the public treasure, thinks that I am the sole favourite with our great man ^, and the truth is, we are united together in a general and joyous friendship, insomuch that our eiFeminate youths, our accomplices in the conspiracy, call him in their speeches Cneius* Cicero, so that I carry away, at the public diversions and shows of gladiators, loud acclamations without one hiss mingling in the applause ^ We ^ Ong. Ah hoc magno. Meaning Pompey, who by this time, began to be called Pompeius Magnus, Pompey the Great. ^ Cneius was one of Pompey' 3 names. ' Orig. ifri TO ATTICUS. 6S quence, that all my friends should love you, and that vou should love them. That part of your letter to me, was, by no means, necessary, in which you explain those offices, both in the city and the provinces, you iMive at certain times, and even under my consul-" ship declined. I am no stranger to the candid, noble disposition of your mind, nor did I ima- gine that we differ in any respect, except the line of life, which we have respectively chosen. The love of power and glory prompted me to the pursuit of public offices ; your view, and an ir- reprehensible view it was, led you to seek philo- sophical retirement. As to that solid glory which is founded in probity, in application, and in the observance of duties, I prefer neither myself, nor any man in the world, to you. With regard to affisction towards me, after that of my brother and family, I believe yours to be the greatest Amidst the various vicissitudes of my life, I have witnessed, believe me, I have thoroughly wit- nessed, your joys and anxieties for me. Often did your kind complim^its, upon my success^ add to my pleasure ; often did your consolation, in my trouble, take from my pain. But now, while you are absent, irreparable is my loss, not only for your excellent advice, but for those entertainments which your conversation afforded me. Need I notice to vou the state of public affairs, a subject, in which I never can permit i I j)ermit myself to be remiss ? Need I mention my employments in the forum, to which I teve been hitherto led in my pursuit of public honours, and which I now pursue that I may maintain the dignity to which they have raised me? Need I mention my domestic concerns in whidi I was so much at a loss, both before, and since the depar- ture of my brother, for you, and your advice. In short, it is incompatible with my toil, with my rest, with my business, with my pleasure, witli my affairs in the forum, with my affairs in my family, with my public, with my private concerns, that I should be longer without your endearing counsels, your highly valued conversation. Often did modesty restrain both of us from adverting to those matters ; but now such animad- version is absolutely necessary, on account of that passage in your letter, in which you vindi- cate and establish with me, the purity of your character and person. But now it comes into my mind, that under the untowardly situation of my brother's alienated and rankled temper, tliere is this happy circumstance, that you have for- merly, at times, declared youf resolution of de- clining the province to me and your friends, and we were fully satisfied of your intention. There- fore, as you have not been in company together, this measure will appear tlie result of your incli- nation and judgment, and not of any difference Vol. I. F and . 66 CICEROS EPISTLES to ATTICUS. 67 and dissention between you. Thus the violation that has happened to the friendship betwixt you and him, shall be removed, and that which is now so religiously preserved between you and me, shall become inviolable. The administration of public affairs, under- which we now live, is weak, wretched, and va- riable. I suppose you have heard that our knights are almost at open variance with the se- nate. ' The first thing they took very much amifes, was a decree which passed the senate, for inqui- ring into their corrupt practices as judges. I happened not to be present when this decree passed, and perceived that, without openly avow- ing their displeasure, the equestrian order were highly disgusted with it. I indeed reproached the senate concerning it, as I thought became me, in the most peremptory manner; and considering the indelicacy of the subject, I enlarged with great weight and authority. There is another delicate point with the knights, which, though hardly justifiable, I have yet supported and recommended. Those of Asia, who have farmed the public revenue, complained in the senate-house, that they are in danger of breaking through the avarice of the censors; that the revenues are rated too high, and they demanded a reduction of their payment. I was Nvas the first who spoke for this petition \ and I only was its second support. For Crassus pushed them on to this presumptuous demand. The whole affair is odious ; their demand is shameful, and implies an acknowledgment of their rash* ness. There w as the greatest danger that they would come to an open breach with the senate, if they did not obtain somewhat. The weight of this whole affair fell upon me, and I succeeded so far, that the senate met in great numbers, and with great frankness; and on the 1st and 2d of December, I enlarged much upon the dignity of the two orders, and the union that ought to subsist between them. The affair, however, was not finished ; but the disposition of the senators is manifest For Metellus the consul, was the only member who opposed me. Cato, however, our patriot hero, was about to speak ; but the right of speaking did not come to his turn till it was dark^, and the house rose. Thus ^ Egoprinceps in adjutonhus, atqiie adeo secundus. All this management shows how pliable a politician Cicero was. His conduct, indeed, betrays the absence of all solid principle. In order to acquire popularity with the Equites, he presents and supports a claim which he himself acknowledges to be unjust and odious, and this inconsistence he is not ashamed to avow to his friend Atticus. — E. ^ It appears from this, and many other passages, that the senators spoke and voted, according to their seniority and rank. 68 CICERO'S EPISTLES Thus in conformity to my views and disposi- tion, I use all the means in my power to cement this coalition. But, because those matters are very delicate, I am paving a certain, and a safe way, as I hope, for preserving my interest; which, though I cannot sufficiently explain in writing, yet I will give you some intimation of my manner. I am extremely intimate with Pom- pey. — I know what you are about to say, but I will use caution wher€ caution ought to be used ; I will, however, take another opportunity of writing you more fully concerning my schemes in public affairs. You must know that Lucceius intends without delay, to stand for the consulship, for no more than two candidates are talked of. Caesar think* of uniting with Lucceius, by the means of Ar- rius, and Bibulus imagines that he can unite with Cffisar, through Caius Piso. This you say, is ri- diculous enough, but not so ridiculous as you imagine. Need I add any thing farther ? I have, indeed, abundance to say ; but will defer writing any more, till another opportunity. Let me know, if I am to expect you. You see how diffident 1 am in soliciting what I so earnestly desire, 1 mean your speedy return to this place. Decem- ber 5 th. EPISTLE TO ATTICUS- 69 EPISTLE XVIIL You must know that at present I want nothing so much as a certain friend, to whom I can im- part whatever gives me concern ; the man who loves me, who is wise in himself, the man with whom I converse without guile, without dissimu- lation, without reserve. For my brother is absent, who is the very soul of sincerity and affection for me. As to Metellus, he is as devoid of these sociable qualities, as the sounding shore, the empty air, or the uncivilized waste. But thou, my friend, where art thou, who hast so often reasoned and talked away my cares, and the anguish of my mind ; thou partner of my pub- lic, thou witness of my private concerns ; thou partaker of all my conversation, thou associate in all my counsels, where, I say, art thou ? So forsaken, so forlorn am I, that my life knows no comfort, but what it has in the company of my wife, my charming daughter, and my dear little Cicero ; for our interested, varnished friendships, serve indeed to make a kind of figure in the fo- rum, but they are without domestic endearment. Thus, in the morning, when my house is filled, when I proceed to the forum, surrounded with hordes of friends, 1 cannot, in all that mighty CQnfluence, find a person to whom I can indulge my 70 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 71 my humour with freedom, or whisper my com* plaints in confidence, I therefore expect you, I want you, nay I sum- mon you to my relief; for many are my perplex*^ ities, many are my troubles, which, did I once enjoy your attention, I think I could dissipate in the conversation of one familiar walk. But I shall here conceal from you all the agonies which I suffer in my private affairs ; nor will I trust them to a letter, which is to be conveyed by a bearer unknown to me. Yet the stings, which I endure, for I would not have you to be too much alarmed, are not intolerable. My anxieties, in- deed, haunt and tease me, and can be allayed only by the counsels and conversation of the friend I love. As to public affairs, though they lie at my heart, yet my inclination, to offer them any re- medy daily diminishes. For if I were to give you a brief state of what happened after your departure, I think I should hear you cry out that the Roman government could be of no long continuance. For the first public act, in which I engaged, after your departure was, if I mis- take not, the tragical intrigue of Clodius. Here I imagined that I had a fair field for restraining licentiousness, and for bridling our young men ; and indeed I was warm, and poured forth all my strength and fire of genius, not from any particu- lar spite, but from a sincere desire to serve my country, I country, and to heal her constitution, which had been wounded by a mercenary, prostituted judg- ment. Now you shall hear what followed upon this. We had a consul forced upon us, and such a consul, as none but philosophers, like us, can be- hold without a sigh. What a calamity was this ? The senate had passed a decree concerning cor- ruption in elections and trials. This decree ne- ver passed into a law; the senate was con- founded, the Roman knights were disobliged. Thus did one year overthrow the two barriers of the government, which I had erected, by taking authority from the senate, and breaking the union of our orders. Another extraordinary year has commenced, with this singular circumstance : — The anniver- sary sacrifices of Juventas are not performed, because Meipmius has initiated into his holy mysteries, the wife of Lentulus, w ho like ano- ther Menelaus, took it so ill, that he has divorced her. It is true, the ancient shepherd of Ida in- jured Menelaus alone ; but this Paris of ours has injured Agamemnon, as w ell as Menelaus. One Herennius, whom you, perhaps, know nothing of, is a tribune of the people; but you may know him, for he is of your tribe, and his father Sex- tus used to be the paymaster of your election jnoney. This man has transferred Clodius to the commons ; and prevailed with all the tribes of the i CICERO'S EPISTLES the people* to pass a vote in the Campus Mar- tiu3 concerning his adopted son. I gave him 9k proper reception, as usual, but the fellow is in- corrigibly stupid. Metellus proves an excellent consul, and my very good friend ; but he hurts his authority, because he has suffered the forma- lity* of the peoples assembling in tribes to pass. As to the son of Aulus, good God ! what a dunce, iFv^hat a spiritless creature he is, ar^d how deserving 13 he of the abuse which Palicanus every day pours out against him to his face. Flavins has promoted an Agrarian law, in which there is, indeed, no great matter, and is much the same with that of Plotius. But in the meantime, not ^ inan can be found who pays the slightest atten^^ tion 1 Clodius, in prosecuting his spite against Cicero, procure^ himself to be adopted in the manner here related amongst the (jomraoners of Rome, to qualify him to be chosen a tribune of the people. The regular way of confirming this adoption^ •was by tlie people assembling according to their Curi^, or se-t veral wards j but the tribunes had no power of summoning those Curiae, which were composed of housekeepers.^ Heren- Tkhis, therefore, assembled the people by their tribes, at which all the inhabitants of Rome, of a certain age, assisted and vo» ted, and where Clodius thought himself sure of carrying hij point, by his Interest amongst the lower people. It appears, however, that the consuls had a negative upon the tribunes iq convokmg this assembly of the tribes. * Orig. Halct diets causa. Tliis appears to have been a (ant expression amongst the Romans in their courts of law. TO ATTICUS. 719 attention to the interests of the republic'. Our friend Pompey (for I would have you to know that he is my friend) preserves, by his silence, the honours of the triumphal robe-, which he is permitted to wear at the public shows. Crassus would not, for the world, speak any thing to dis- oblige. I need to say no more of all the others, who could see their country sunk, if their fish- ponds are saf«. One patriot, indeed, we have, but in my opinion, he is patriotic more from courage and integrity, than from judgment o? genius, I mean Cato. He has for these three months plagued the poor farmers of the revenue, though they have been his very good friends; nor will he suffer the senate to return any an- swer to their petition. Thus, we are forced to do no kind of business, before that of the reve- nue is dispatched, and I believe even the depu- tations will be set aside.^ . You 1 Orig. iroXmMs ««.f «S oiag. ReipuMka vir deditus, ne qvidem ptr sammum. This is a proverbial expression, in which there is an alliteration in the original, incapable of being ren- dered in English. The sense is, no one pays a shadow of at- tention to the public good ; for «/& ova? signifies not the least. Thus Philo speaking of the Essenes, writes, E,i«oj EPISTLE XX. In my return from Pompeianum^ to Rome, May the 12th, I received from our friend Cin- cius, your letter dated the 13th of February, and which I am now to answer. In the first place, then, it gives me pleasure to know that you are satisfied as to the judgment I have formed con- cerning your affairs. In the next place, I feel the highest satisfaction that your conduct has been so moderate in circumstances, in which 1 and my brother, I freely own, appear to have acted with too much severity and unkindness. In this, I think you discover the affections of a warm heart, as well as the sentiments of a great and a wise man. Your expressions to me upon that head, are so kind, so affectionate, so obli- ging, and so tender, that I have no right to re- peat my counsels, or even to expect so much gentleness and good nature in any man. I there- fore think it highly improper to write more upon that subject, till we meet ; and then if any thing ' offers farther, we will fairly discuss it. What you write to me concerning public af- fairs, is friendly and prudent, and your views and mine 1 This town stood near Naples, at tlie foot of mount Vesu- vius, and was consumed at the same time, that Pliny perished there. TO ATTICUS. 85 H K ' * mine are, in the main, the same. As to me, I will not descend one step from my dignity, nor will I trust myself, without my guards, in another mans garrison. The person\ concerning whom you write, is destitute of comprehension and elevation of mind, and is altogether cringing and menial. My connections with him, however, have, per- haps, served the purpose of making my circum- stances more easy. But, indeed, it was of greater service to the public than to me, that I should repel the attacks of profligate citizens, by fixing in my favour, the wavering affections of a man so eminent by his fortunes, his authority, and his credit with the public, and to blast the hopes of the wicked, by bringing him over to extol the patriotism of my conduct. Yet in obtaining this end, I would deem the sacrifice a dear purchase, which might in the slightest degree, derogate from my dignity; but I have managed every thing in such a manner, that my dignity is not diminished by his friendship, while his authority is strength- ened by my countenance. In other respects, I act in such a manner, as to avoid the imputation of my having ever left any thing to chance. In regard^ to those worthy friends, 1 Meaning Pompey. 2 Cicero alludes to an adage, which is preserved in Suida$ and in Plutarch : Ivocprav th*x^s» '»'«^^'' ''°*^^"' ^^^ ^^^^ Sparta for thy country, honour it with thy conduct.— E, 86 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 87 friends^ whom you mention, and that Spartan glory, which you say I have acquired, I shall ever be so far from abandoning them, that, should they abandon me, yet shall I never depart from my former sentiments. I would, however, ^ have you to know, that since the death of Catu- lus, I can no longer stand by the party of the nobles, with any safety or with any dignity. For as Rhinton', if I mistake not, says, " One half " of them are good for nothing, and the other " half think of nothing." By those senators, who mind their fishponds more than their office as statesmen, I am envied and opposed ; but I will describe their conduct to you in another let- ter, or when we first meet In the meanwhile, nothing shall tear me from the senate ; and in this, I act upon principles of interest as well as of virtue ; nor indeed have I reason to repent of my attachment to that order. I have already informed you, that I had not great hopes from the senate of your Sicyonian affair. We hear no more of the complaint of creditors ; it will therefore be a tedious matter to succeed that way, and I would have you to fight, if 1 Rhinton was a Greek comic poet. The verse cited from him is Iambic : *0i /Af» waf ov^u ttcif, 'ois V owJiK ixtXth The Optlmates, or the aristocratical party, were become too degenerate to deserve support from Cicero, some of them being destitute of ability, others of principle. — E. I if poBiible, with some other weapons. When the decree passed, no regard was paid to those whom it affected, and the foot-senators with unanimity and eagerness, divided with that motion. Mat- ters are not yet ripe for correcting it, because there are no complainants, and a great many people befriend it, some, through ill-nature, others, through a conviction that it is a right measure. Your friend, the consul Metellus, turns out a tnost excellent magistrate ; I think him, however, to blame, in one respect, that he does not much seem to relish our pacific accounts from Gaul. It is my opinion, that he hankers after a tri- umph ; in this he is not perhaps so defensible, but, in every other respect, he is great. As to the son of Aulus, his conduct, in his own consul- ship, has been such as to disgrace the name of consul, and to be but a foible to set forth the greatness of Pompey\ I have sent you, by Lu- cius Cossinius, the history of my consulate in Greek; I suppose my Latin performance will give » The original is 'tnruvm mstrl magni. Cicero, like other writers of his age, is fond of playing upon words, and his wit on this occasion, consists in the similitude of Wo^w/ov to W*to^, the Greek name of consul. The son of Aulus was not Waroy, the consular luminary of Rome, but 'vwuirwi,, a speck on the face of Pompey. The commentators and our translator, over- looking the paranomasia, do not appear to have understood tlie full import of the passage. — E. 88 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 89 give you more pleasure, because one Greek looks with an eye of jealousy upon another. If I meet with performances from other authors upon the same subject, I will send them to you, yet when people have once read my work, they lose, I know not how, all taste for that of any other. For, that I may return to my private affairs, our worthy friend Lucius Papirius Paetus has made me a present of the books that had been left by Servius Claudius. When your friend Cincius^ acquainted me, that there was notliing in this Cincian law, that could hinder me from accepting them, I told him joyfully, that they should be welcome if they were brought. Now, if you love me, if you think that I love you, do all that you can by your friends, by your follow- ers, by your guests, by your freemen, nay, em- ploy your very slaves, to prevent the loss of a single line. For I have now very great occasion for the Greek books, which I suppose, and for the Latin ones, which I know, he left behind him. The truth is, I daily take more and more pleasure in the amusement I find from those studies, when I rest from mv labours in the fo- rum. You will in the highest degree gratify me, if ^ Cicero here plays upon the word Cincius, because the law, •gainst senators, extorting presents from their dej)endants, was called the Cincian law. if you be as strenuous in this affair, as you have been in those which you thought lay most at my heart. I recommend to your care, the af- fairs of Pastus himself, who desires to return you many thanks for what you have already done. That I may see you soon is not only my wish, but my request. CICERO'S t CICERO'S EPISTLES TO \ ATTICUS. kMi BOOK 11. ur-i M' mJ 1*. El>IsrLE I. s 4. 1 WAS met by your slave on the 1st of June, on my journey to Antium, as I was leaving, not without regret, the gladiatorian shows, exhibited by Marcus Metellus. From him I received your letters, and your Greek history of my consulship, a present which gave me the greater pleasure, as I had sometime before, put, into the hands of Cossinius, for you, some Greek memoirs of mine upon the same subject ; for, had 1 read yours beforehand, you would have charged me with having copied you, without acknowledging my obligations. But give me leave, to say, for I read it with great eagerness, that your work is not finished I TO ATTICUS. 93 92 CICEROS EPISTLES finished in your usual taste and elegance. It was, however, adorned by the neglect of orna- ment, as ladies appear the sweeter for using no perfume. On the other hand, my book is en- riched with all the graces of the most celebrated Grecian schools, and fully exhibits the design, the correctness, the colouring of Isocrates, Aris- totle, and their followers \ Let me tell you that the book which you slightly glanced over at Corfu', as I understand by your other letters, and of which you received a complete copy from Cossinius, is a present, I would not have ven- tured to have made you, had I not approved of it after grave and mature deliberation. Let me tell you likewise, that when I had sent it to Pos- donius' at Rhodes, that it might invite him to treat the same subject with greater elegance, and when he had read over my memoirs, he wrote me they were so far from inviting, that they had ab- solutely ' This version exhibits the spirit^ rather tlian the letter of the origina], which is as follows : — Mens autem liler totum Isocraiis fMpo^xtov (Pigmentorum arculam) atque omnes ejus discipulorum arculas, ac non nihil etiam Aristotclica pigmata consumpsit. — Literally rendered it runs thus : — But my book has consumed ike whole perfume box of Isocrates, all the dres- sing chests of his followers, together with the paint of Aristotle, 2 This was the capital of Corcyra, a small island now belong- ing to the Venetians. ' This was a famous stoic philosopher under whom Cicero had studied. solutely deterred him from any attempt of that kind. In a word, I have covered all Greece w ith confusion. Thus, I am now no longer plagued with those who daily teazed me for some subject, which they could embellish by their language. If you are pleased with the performance, you w ill take care to publish it at Athens, and the other Greek towns, for it seems calculated to throw a lustre upon my conduct. I have sent you the orations which you re- quested to see, though too insignificant to deserve that name ; and I will send you more, since you are pleased even with those which I wrote at the importunity of our youths. If Demosthenes, that famous countryman^ of yours, became so illustrious by his Philippic orations, in which he divested himself of all the rigid and meagre forms of the bar, that he might appear in the character of a dignified speaker and a wise states- . man ; have I not, I say, an equal title to fame, by publishing my orations, which I call consular. The first of them was spoken in the senate-house, on the 1st of January; the second before the people ; both on the subject of the Agrarian law; the third was for Otho ; the fourth for Rabirius ; the fifth was concerning the heirs of the proscri- bed ; the sixth was pronounced when I gave up my 1 This is a compliment to Atticus, who was violently in love with Greece and its literature. 94 CICERO'S EPISTLES my province in tbe assembly of the people ; the levcnth banished Catiline from Rome ; I spoke the eighth before the people the day after his flight ; th« ninth was delivered in the assembly, on the day when the AUobroges made their dis- coveries ; and the tenth in the senate, on the 5th of December ; and these with two short ones, which serve as a sort of appendixes to those upon the Agrarian law, form the whole collection which I shall take care you shall receive. Farther, as you are pleased with my actions as well as my writings, you shall, in those books, have a full view of my conduct, as well as of my eloquence, which, had you not called for it, I should not have exhibited. You ask me the reason why I so much press your return to Rome ; and, without refusing to come, you bint, that you have a great deal of business upon your hands, and that )^u would fly to see me, not only to do me service, but to do me pleasure. The truth is, I know of no abso- lute necessity ; but it appeared to me, that you might have marked out the times of your absence les« unkindly. You have indeed been too long absent, especially as you are in the neighbour** hood, and as I neither enjoy you, nor have you my company. Now, indeed, I have some repose ; but if the madness of the effeminate Clodiu« should carry him much farther, I shall seriously urge your return. Metellus, however, checks him, and It TO ATTICUS. 9^ y ^0d will cb^ck him to some purpose. Indeed though a consul, he w a »»cere patt^iot, mi ^ I always thought, a good man. As to. Clodius, he now solicits, withwt t«y jnask, for the tribuneship of the people. When this matter came before the senate, I confouuded rtie fellow, cemured his incgni^tancy in ^tan4iag for the tribuneship at Rome, when, but the other 4ay, he declared in Sicily, he w^uld stand for the ^dileship. I said that we had no real rc^aaon to l^e alsurm^, si»c^ be wpwld, in the character of a Plebeian, have tio more opportvinity for distres- &i«g his cpuutry, than th^ Patricians, whose ex- ample he followed under my consulship. In the next place, having understood that he ha4 boas- ted in an assembly of the people, of having com^ to Rome ill seven days, from the streigUts of Sicily, and that h^ had entered the city by night, to prevent the crowds who were to come out to meet him ; I said there was nothing strange in ft man's coming in ^vea days from Sicily to Rome, when in three hours he could oome and go from Rome to Interamna ; that it was not the first time he had entered the city by night, and that nobody, by going out to meet him, had obstructed his ap- proach, when they ought to have done it most^ ' In 1 Orig, Non esse hum olviam, m turn quidem cum in mi^^- imedeluit. Meaoing that upon his return he should h»fc jDeen forbidden to «nter RoraCr 96 CICERO'S EPISTLES i< ii ii li it In a word, I teach this impudent man modesty, not only by the grave continued severity of my address, but by such occasional keen raillery as the following. While we were attending a candidate, I made him the subject of my wit and satire. He asked me " whether I used to assign any place for the " Sicilians at the gladiatorian shows." I told him by no means. " But, replies he, I will ; though they are come but lately under my pa- tronage. But, continues he, my sister, whcf has so much room as a consular's w ife, allows me only a few inches." O ! replied I, " I dare to say your sister w ishes you to have as many " inches as you can desire ^" This you say, was not speaking in a very consular stile ; I allow it ; but I despise vulgarity even in the w ife of a con- sul. For she is a turbulent w oman, prone to de- clare war with her husband, and not only with her husband, but even w ith her gallant, ' because they are my friends in this affair. With regard to your inquiries about the Agra- rian law, it seems, at present, to be forgotten. As ^ Orig. Sed soror, quce tantum haleat consularis loci, unum mihi solum pedem dat. Noli, inquam, de uno pede sororis queri : licet etiam alterum tollas. This passage alludes to the supposed incest of Clodius with his sister, who was the consul Metelius's wife^ but it is not proper to explain the meaning of the passage itself. ' Meaning Fabius. *ro ATTICUS. 97 I As to the gentle chastisement you give me con- cerning my friendship with Pompey, I would not have you imagine that I look upon it to be any security to me ; but as affairs were circumstanced, had there been any difference, the public must have necessarily been thrown into the greatest confusion. Now, my management and caution to prevent this w as such, that I did not deviate from my own virtuous plan of conduct; but I have brought him to be a better patriot, and in some degree to correct that giddiness, with which he courts the populace. For, be it know n to you that he does not run out so much in applause of his own actions, as of my conduct, against which so many people have endeavoured to prepossess him. ^ He says that he has served, but I have preserved, the public. I know of no advantages that I can draw from this declaration, but the public can certainly draw many. What if I should make a better patriot of Caesar, whose sails are now full-swelled with the gale of popu- lar favour ; shall I not then serve my country ? Supposing, even, that I have not an enemy, and that all mankind should do me justice, by giving me their friendship, is the application which heals the rotten parts of the republic less valua- ble than that which cuts them oii? But now, at a time when that body of cavalry, which, when you led their way, and carried their colours, I posted in the avenue of the capitol, has abandoned the Vol. I. H senate; } 98 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS, 99 senate ; at a time when our great men think them- selves high as heaven, if they can bring their mullets in their fishponds to feed out of their hands ; at a time when they mind no other busi- ness, do you not think that I am useftiUy em- ployed, in taking the will, from those who have the power, to hurt our country ? My admiration of Cato is not inferior to yours ; but still, with tiie best intentions and the strict- est honour, he sometimes hurts the public ; for his sentiments are more suited to the perfect com- monwealth of Plato, than to the low rabble of Romulus. Can there be a proposition more just than that a man should be brought to the bar for receiving money, while he sat upon the bench. This was Cato's opinion ; the senate came into it ; the knights declared war against the w^hole order, but not against me, because I divided against the question. What could be more im- pudent than the'petition presented by the farmers of the revenue ? It would have been, however, prudent to have suffered that loss, rather than have forfeited the friendship of the order. Cato opposed them and carried his point. But what is the consequence, now that the consul is im- prisoned, and now thatall is in an uproar ? Not a man of that order has shewed the least affection for the constitution, wliich, under me, and the consuls who succeeded me, they so bravely de- fended. You say what of all this ? Are we to bribe -k bribe them to do their duty ? What have we to do else ? Are we to be insulted by our freedmen, are we to be the slaves of our slaves ? But, surely, you will say, here my efforts ought to terminate'. Favonius has dealt more honestly with my , tribe than with his own ; but be has ruined that of Lucceius. ,He has brought a groundless im- peachment against Nasica, and spoke to it in so aukward a manner, that one could have sworn he had a mule rather than a Alolon, of Rhodes, for his master of rhetoric ^ He was somewhat dis- pleased with me for speaking in his defence, and he is now attacking him again for the good of the public. I will write to you concerning the pro- ceedings of Lucceius, after I have seen Csesar, who will be here in two days. You are to thank Cato, and his ape Servilius, for the losses you have sustained from the Sicyonians. But, in^ deed, do not many worthy men labour under the same grievance ? Let us, however, beai' with it, since it is passed, lest, in time of any future commotion, we be left by ourselves. X My * Orig, *aA.i5 inrovhh enovgh of labour, i. e. in preserving the harmony of tlfe different orders, no more efForts, no far- ther sacrifice ought to be made by me. — E. 5 There is a jingle here in the original, which I have imita- ted in the translation. Ita ut Rhodi viikretur molts potius, quam Moloni operam dedisse. Molon was a famous teacher of rhetoric at Rhodes. 9 \ 100 CICERO'S EPISTLES My Amalthea expects, and requires your pre-' sence. I am wonderfully delighted with my Tus- culanum and Pompeianum, though indeed I, who prevented a general bankruptcy, am ready to become bankrupt myself, through the debts I have contracted to build them. I am in hopes that every thing in Gaul is quiet. You may daily expect the Prognostics* with my orations, which are but trifles. In the meanwhile, let me know what resolution you have come to concerning your return hither. For I was told from Pom- ponia, that you was to be at Rome in the month of July. This is somewhat different from what you gave me to understand, by the letters you wrote me since your departure. I wrote you before, that Paetus has made me a present of all the books that were left him by his brother, and it rests upon your friendship to make this present turn out to my account As you love me, take care that they are preserved, and safely conveyed to my hands. You cannot do me a more agreeable piece of service than this ; and in carefully preserving all those books, the Latin as well as the Greek, I shall then look upon the present as yours. I have delivered your letters * A poem of Aratus, a Greek poet, whom Virgil has often imitated, and indeed copied in his Georgics. This poem Ci- cero had rendered into Latin, a copy of which he sent to his friend.— E. TO ATTICUS. 16t letters to Octavius^, but had no conversation with him ; for I did not think they related to your af- fairs in the province; nor did I reckon you amongst the number of usurers ;butlhave writ- ten as I ought, with fidelity- EPISTLE IL X ENTREAT you by your friendship for me, to pay every attention to my nephew's recovery, with whose indisposition I sincerely sympathize. I have just laid down the treatise of Dicaearchus upon the Pollenean republic, and have now before me a whole pile of his works. What a great au- thor he is ! And how much more may you learn from him than from Procilius. If I mistake not, I have at Rome his treatises, concerning the Co- rinthian and Athenian governments. Take my word for it, read him, I recommend him, he is an admirable writer. Were Herodes a man ot sense, he would read him, before he wrote ano- ther word. He attacked me by letters, but I per- ceive that he attacks you in person. I should have joined in Catiline's conspiracy, instead of destroying it, had I imagined that I was to be doomed ^ He was father to the emperor Augustus Caesar, and was then governor of Macedonia. 102 CICERO'S EPISTLES doomed to hear him. Yoii are wrong in the af- fair of Lollius, but right as to Vinius. Now that I think of it, the first day of the month is at hand, but where is Antony^ ? Are the judges summoned ? For I am given to under- stand, that Nigidius^ threatened in an assembly, that he would summon any judge who shall ab- sent himself. I wish, however, that you would let me know all you can learn concerning the jour- ney of Antony ; and because you will not come to tliis place, I request you to sup with me at Rome, the last of this month, and this you must not fail to do. Take care of your own health. EPISTLE III. I OUGHT speedily to recompense the good news', which you have sent me, by another equally acceptable to you. Valerius is acquitted upon the defence made for him by Hortensius, and 1 He was Cicero's colleague in the consulship, and though he commanded die army that defeated Catiline, he was after- vrzrds banished for being concerned in his conspiracy, though be was defended by Cicero. « He was tribune all the following year, and as such had a power of compelling the judges of Antony to attend. » The original from its brevity, is obscure. Primum, ut opi- nor, MvxyytXsx, l e. deleo tihi ivxrf^», I owe you the reward of good neics.-~-^. TO ATTICUS- 103 nnd this it is apprehended, through the interest of Caeso Atilius ; and I suspect with you, that our great man^ has been taking an undue liberty in the same affair. For I am neither pleased with his military, nor with his civil accoutrements ^ You shall know the whole matter when you come hither. You must know, that in finding fault with the narrowness of my windows, you find fault with the institution of Cyrus ^ For when I disco- vered the very same fault that you do, Cyrus told me, that objects did not appear so agreeable through wide windows, and that supposing A to be the eye that sees, , B and C to be the object that are seen, D and E the rays of light. You know the rest of this jargon. For if we were to see by the interposition of images, they would be obstructed in those narrow passages, so that the stream ^ Ew/xf «T»jo the powerful man, meaning Pompey. 2 Mihi ejus caligae, ut fasciis cretatce, displicehant' The caligco were greaves, used by soldiers, and the fasciis were a sort of fillets or rollers to wrap around the legs, instead of stockings, and formed a part of tlie civil common dress. Pom- pey wore these in the city as badges of honour, and as such gave offence to Cicero and others. In the use of such fillets, as insignia of rank and triumph, originated, it appears probable, the order of the Garter with us. — E. ^ The wit of our author here consists in an obscure play upon words. The instruction of the architect, who appears to have been called Cyrus, Cicero stiles Yivfov vahiait, which is the title of a well known book written by Xenophon. — E. 104 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 105 stream of rays is now easily admitted. If there is any thing else you dislike, let me know, and I will rectify it, provided it be of such a nature as to be corrected by expence. January is at length arrived, in which the fate of the elections is to be decided : and here I lay before you an account of my political conduct, in the Socratic manner, by exhibiting a view on both sides ; but, like him, I shall close the whole with my own opinion. It is indeed a thing of great weight. For I must either oppose the Agra- rian law, by an ineffectual, though glorious resist- ance, or I must agree to it, which is not unlike retiring to Solonium or Antium^ ; or I must as- sist in it, which I understand Caesar expects me to do. Cornelius has been at my house, I mean Balbus', Caesar's intimate. He assured me that Caesar would, in all his conduct, be directed by Pompey and me, and that he would endeavour to reconcile Crassus to Pompey. From all this it follows, that my coalition with Pompey remains firm ; that I may, if I please, have the friendship of Caesar ; that I may enter into favour with my enemies, into peace with the people, and secure a tranquillity to my old age. But, against this, I am cautioned by the following admonition, given ^ These were two pleasant country seats in Italy. ' This peirson made a great figure at Rome under Caesar^ though "€ was a Spaniard by birth. m given me in the third book of a poetical workV known to you : — Meanwhile the course of honour and of truths | Which you^ when consul held, pursue, and thus Increase your fame, and virtuous applause. As Calliope herself dictated to me these senti- ments in a book written in favour of the aristo- cratic party, I can have no doubt that Without a sign his sword the brave man draws. And asks no omen but his country's cause'^. But we will reserve these matters for our walks' at the compitalitia. Do not forget, the day before that festival. I will order the bath to be made warm, and Terentia invites Pomponia. We shall likewise have your mother's company. Bring along with you, out of my brother's library, the Treatise of Theophrastus upon the Pursuit of public Honours. ^ This is a stroke of that excessive vanity which distinguishes Cicero's character j for this poem was probably written by him- self and in his own praise. ^ Orig. 'E/s otmos avisos (X[jLvvs and both he, and Vattinius, were very lewd persons. 12 116 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 117 Vatinius ; while Clodius is appointed to this needy commission, which is no better than an honoura- ble exile to a man like Clodius, whose future tribuneship is so necessary for the purposes of his party. If you love me, exasperate him as much as possible. My whole hopes, for the public, are that tliese men will disagree, which I understand from Curio, is already commenced. Arius is in a rage at missing the consulship. Our African potentate' is already at variance with the young and sanguinary part of the nobility. If the breach should be widened, by a dispute about the augurship, I hope I shall have frequent oc- casions of entertaining you with letters on that subject The hint you suggested, that even the five*^ commissioners begin to complain, I wish you would farther explain. If I rightly compre- hend your meaning, it is a more favourable cir- cumstance than I expected. But I would not have you think that I want to be informed by you, from any desire I have to interfere in politics again, or that I still long to be concerned in public affairs. I have long since lost all relish for power, even when I might have enjoyed it But now tliat I am forced to leave 1 Orig. Megabocchus. This was another nickname of Pom- pey. Bocchus was a victorious prince, who reigned in Mau* ritania. — E. * lliis relates to private history, which is not now recover- able. i4 leave the ship, after having resigned, but not abandoned, the rudder, I am desirous of behold- ing, from dry land, the shipwreck of my succes- sors. For, as your friend Sophocles says, Sweet is the couch zvken winter's storms invade. And rattling rains the downy slumbers aid\ Be sure to give directions about the wall. I will rectify that mistake concerning Castriccianus^ My brother specified one sum to me, though he mentioned another to your sister. My wife pre- sents her compliments to you ; and my son de- sires you to answer for him to Aristodemus, in the same manner as you did for his brother, your nephew. I will attend to what you write concerning Amalthea. Take care of your health. EPISTLE VIII. W HEN, in my usual manner, I waited towards the evening for a letter from you, then comes a message, that my slaves were arrived from Rome ; I call for them, I inquire after letters, < they cell me they have none. What nothing from Pom- ponius ? ^ Ong. xaTt info rtyn WiLtSis a,x.Hitv "^^ly^ai^os iv^H ^ J^^^ magistrate ; and this he opposes to a^ nor is there a more illus- trious instance of it than in the person of Cicero. In his let- ters, where he lays open, without reserve, the sentiments of his 170 CICERO'S EPISTLES that you will instantly meet me at Viba, ta which I have many reasons for retiring. But if you come to that city, we shall settle the plan of TO ATTICUS. 171 of my destined retreat Should you not comply with this request, I shall feel disappointed ; but I have confidence in your readiness to oblige me. his heart, w« find bim, by turns, blaming or blackening, re- proving or reviling, the greatest men of Rome. We have al- ready seen with what contempt he, on all occasions, charac- terises Pompey 5 how he loads Crassus, blames Caesar, vilifies Hortensius, sneers at Lucnllus, and treats even Cato as a wrong- headed man, of^a narrow genius, and more fitted to mislead than to direct a party. Cicero made a very happy choice of Atticus for his confi- dent. He was a Roman knight, wh« had formed to himself and pursued, a scheme of pleasure, which that age thought to be rational, and succeeding times have pronounced to be amia- ble. He was a professed Epicurean, and acted up to all the refinements of that sect, both in morality and friendship. His avowed maxim was, to be easy under all governments ; and as pleasure was his pursuit, he foimd he could succeed only by be- coming, " all tilings to all men." His knowledge of men and books, made him the most entertaining companion of his age ; while his good sense, and experience of life, gave him all the advantages that could be sought in the firiend, or die man of ge- Dios. Cicero, whose heart was good when uninfluenced by fear or vanky, found, in Atticus, what he could not find in the world besides, a man void of prepossessions for any party, aod full c^ benevolence for all mankind. But Cicero did not re- flect that those qualities, so seemingly amiable, meant no mare than that Atticus was resolved not to be troubled with any thing that concerned hb country -, and wished mankind extremely well, because another's unhappiness gave him pain. Thus the patriotism of Atticus was too diffiised, and his friendships too dissipated. His country had neither benefit from his abilities in the state, nor his friends from his credit with the public. A man EPISTLE II. i T _ HE reason of my departure was, because, in ray situation, there was no place where I could con- A man thus formed, whose company was courted, whose conversation was admired, and whose person was esteemed, by Sdl parties, must have soon lost his character and credit with all, had he been particular upon any one point of public concemj and such the case of Cicero was. That he avoided this is evi- dentj not so much from the history we have of Atticus, as from the repeated intimations of our autlior, who, by turns, adnio- nishes, exhorts, entreats, and even reproaches him, for his m- scnsible returns of fi-iendship. It is true, we have no letters of Atticus to Cicero. But one, with a very small share of saga- city, may venture to say, that they were full of genBral assu- rances of friendship, of exhortations to bear his misfortunes patiently, of the conversation he had with one great man, of the promises made him by another, and of the declarations of a third in his favour j but without coming to any one point which Atticus hazarded for his friend, or in which he risqued the loss, either of his credit or his interest, with the Roman grandees. Add to this, it is not impossible, and it may be even gathered from many parts of our author's works, that Atticus, in his frequent unreserved conversations with the enemies of Cicero, might have dropt some hints, from which they might have gathered the sentiments, if not the views, of our au- thor. jMUi- y"'--*!^'^ 172 CICERO'S EPISTLES continue longer in, than the seat of Sica*, espe- cially as my sentence is not engrossed . At the same time, I understand, that if I had you with me, I could go from thence to Brundusium 5 where, without your protection, I could not con- tinue, on account of Autronius^ Now, as I wrote you before, if you come to me, we will concert our whole plan of proceeding. It is, I know, a troublesome journey ; but the whole of my misfortunes are attended with troubles of every kind. I am so astonished, so dejected, that I can write no more. Farewel, my friend. Dated April 8, upon the confines of Lucania. EPISTLE *j ' ' * Fundus appears to have signified at first a country buildings and then the land belonging to it. See Adam's Antiq. p. 92. — The phrase in fundum, is for in /undo; so the Greeks some- times wrote us oixov, into the house, for n otKu, in the house; tis iTfrc^iaff for cy airo^i^, in the ashes. — E. ^ Before a law in Rome was published, it was posted up in three fair days, in the whole twenty-seven days, that it might be amended. The bill against Cicero imported, that he should be prohibited from fire and water j that is, from all the ne- cessaries of life; and that it should be penal for any one to give him shelter. There was, however, no determined dis- tance to which he was banished j and the law was posted up till that should be ascertained. Cicero took the advan- tage of this uncertainty to hover, for some time, upon the coast of Italy. ^ He had then a command in the Roman army i and having been engaged in Catiline's conspiracy, he had a hatred for our author. t ' TO ATTICUS. EPISTLE III. 173 sj'iK^** X HOPE you will impute it to my misery, rather than my watit of resolution, that I so suddenly left Vibo, where I solicited you to meet me. I have received the sentence of my destruction, in which are the insertions I expected, and which imply that I am banished four hundred miles from Italy. Finding thus that I was not at liber- ty to go to Vibo, I immediately set out for Brun- dusium, so as to he there the day before my sen- tence had taken place, both to save Sica, my host, from destruction, and likewise because the isle of Malta was too near to Italy. Do you now make haste, that you may overtake me ; I mean, if I am received there. Hitherto I have received very kind invitations, but I dread what yet re- mains. My friend, I greatly regret that I have not put an end to my existence. It is chiefly owing to you that I continue to live. But we will talk of this together. Do you only take care to come. EPISTLE IV. I ALWAYS thought it would be the greatest advantage for me to have you along with me, but more than ever, when upon reading my sen- tence, 174 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 17S tence, I understood that nothing could happen more desirable for me, with regard to my in- tended journey, than that you should join me with the first opportunity, in order to determine whe- ther, after having left Italy, I shall pass through Epirus under your protection, or follow some other course. I therefore entreat that you would immediately set out to meet me. You may be the more able to do this, as a decree is already passed concerning the government of Macedo- nia\ I would express myself to you nwre at large, were it not that my circumstances are a sufficient apology to one who is my ft*iend. EPISTLE V. JVIy wife informs me in frequent and warra terms of your kindness to her. I am greatly obliged to you for these instances of your friend- ship. I live in misery and sorrow, and from the agitation of my mind know not what to write to you. If you are at Rome, you cannot now overtake me ; but if you are on the road, when we meet together, we will concert our final plan. All I beg of you is, that as you have ever loved me ^ Atticus had a great deal of business in that province, the government of which, with thai of several adjacent countries, Imd been granted to Piso^ through the interest of Clodius. I lae personally, you will t:ontinue in the same affections. I am still the same man. My ene- mies have robbed me of all my external comforts, but not of my internal peace and satisfaction \ My friend I wish you well. Dated at Thurium the 10th of April. EPISTLE VL 1 FLATTERED mysclf that I should have seen you at Tarentum or Brundusium, for many rea- sons, especially that I might be determined a& to my residence in Epirus, and that I might have your advice in settling other matters. My disappointment in this respect increases the load of my other miseries. I am setting out for Cyzicum^ in Asia. My relatives and friends I recommend to your protection ; as to what concerns myself, I can scarce be said to live, but to breathe, and that too with pain. Dated the 11 th of April from Tarentum. fJPISTLK * Orig. Inimici mei mea mihi, non me ipsum adcmerunt. The commentators have been at great pains to puzzle this passage, which I hope I have translated ckarly and consistently with the original. * This was a town in Mysia upon the Propontis. 176 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 177 EPISTLE VIL I ARRIVED at Brundusiura on the 18th of April, on which day I received your letters from your slaves, and three days after, another packet was delivered by a person in your service. I am extremely obliged to you for the pressing invita- tion with wliich you have favoured me, to reside at your house in Epirus. How ardently do I wish to spend all the time of my exile in that place. For I hate a crowd. I shun mankind, scarcely can I bear the light Such a solitude, upon so friendly a spot, would be, to me, by no means disagreeable. But in the first place, it is too far from the road to interrupt my journey for the sake of a few days entertainment. In the next place, I shall be no more than four days jour- ney distant from Autronius and his associates ; and lastly, I shall be without you. It is highly desirable, that the place of my destination should be so fortified as to secure me from violence : but there can be no danger of being molested in my journey to it thither. If I durst venture, I would go to Athens, were it situated at the distance I could wish. At present, many of my enemies re- side in that city. I have not your company, and I am afraid that that town may be interpreted to be within my prescribed distance from Italy, neither I hfeither do you write me on what day I am to expect you. Your advice and consolation have hitherto restrained me from doing violence to myself. But your encouragements have not been able to reconcile me to the course I have followed, and to the life I lead. For what is there for which I should now desire to live, especially if I am dis- appointed in the hopes I carried with me out of Rome \ I will not, indeed I will not, recount all the wretchedness into which I am fallen, through the unexampled injustice, and the wick- edness, rather of the men who envied, than of those who hated me, lest I should awaken my- self to all the horrors of my condition, and you to a feeling of my sorrows. One thing I affirm, that never was a man oppressed with such a weight of calamity, never had a man more rea- son to implore death. But the time is irrevo- cably passed when I might have died with glory. The remainder of my days cannot repair, they can only finish, my miseries. I perceive, that you have collected every pub- lic incident which you think likely to flatter my hopes of seeing a change in my favour. Those hopes ^ Our author's friends had, that they might get rid of him with the less trouble to themselves, buoyed him up with the hopes that the inconstancy of the people would soon recall him. Vol. L N I) ! 178 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 179 hopes I own are faint, yet to please you, I will live in the indulgence of them. Meanwhile, if you make haste, you can overtake me, for I shall either stop in Epirus, or make very slow journies over the mountains of Candavia^ It is not from indecision that I hesitate Cicero's brother Quintus was one of those characters that act better in a subordinate, than in a first sphere of life. For though he afterwards behaved extrejjiely well as Caesar's lieu- tenant, yet he acted in so arbitrary and insolent a manner io his government, that he was at this time threatened w^ith &£b impeachment at Rome. N2 180 CICERO'S EPISTLES I perceive I am not to hope for any alleviation of my distresses ; I have nothing to write ; I am afraid of every thing : nor is there any mis- fortune, which may not be expected to befal me, and thus to complete my calamities. My exces- sive grief and troubles are aggravated by my de- lay at Thessalonica, where I am tormented with doubt and fear without spirit to support me. I have not seen Trypho Caecilius. From what you have written to me I learn the nature of your conversation with Pompey. But I am unable to conceive that such a revolution in the govern- ment, as you either foresee, or pretend to foresee, can take place in my favour. As Pompey has connived at the injustice done to Tigranes^ all hopes are lost. I will, as you desire me, return thanks to Varro and Hypsaeus. I intend com- plying with your advice, in not removing far from this place, till I learn all that shall happen in the * Pompey had brought one of the sons of Tigranes, king of Annenia, to Rome, and committed him to the custody of the praetor Flavius, from whom Clod ins, being bribed to it with great sums, saved him, and privately put him on board a ship for his own country. The young prince, however, being forced ashore, Flavius went with a strong body of men to retake him J but he was encountered on tlie road by Clodius and his friends, who defeated Flavius, and cut his party in pieces. Though the great interest of Clodius obliged Pompey to put up with this affront yet it was one of the chief, though secret, motives that determined him to recall Cicero. TO ATTICUS. iSl the month of May ; but where to reside till then^ I am not yet determined. The truth is, from my excessive anxieties about my brother Quintus, I am not capable of forming any determination. I will, however, send you every necessary infor- mation. I am inclined to think that you see the agitation of my mind in the mode of my writing to you ; but distressed as I am with in- conceivable, unexampled afflictions, my sorrow does not proceed so much from what I suffer, as from reflections upon my own misconduct You are at length become sensible of the villany of that man who encouraged and betrayed me. I wish we had perceived it before this affair is be- come thus irretrievable ; and had not abandoned ourselves to passive, unresisting despondency. If therefore you hear that I am overwhelmed, tHat I 3(^1 consumed in misery, you are to con- clude, that I feel more from my own impru- dence, than for my condition, because I con- fided in a man, who, without appearing so to me, is the most unprincipled of mankind. I am unable to proceed from reflections on my own sufferings, and fear concerning my brother. I beg you will examine and manage all my con- cerns. My wife remembers you with the deep- est gi'atitude ; I have sent you a copy of the letter, which I sent to Pompey. Dated from Thessalonica the 29th of May. EPISTLE 182 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE IX. O^ the >st of April my brother Quintus left Asia, and on the 15th of May he arrived at Athens. He was obliged to repair with great haste to Rome, for fear of being injured in his absence, by those who may not think that I am yet sufficiently miserable. I rather chose that he should make all the haste possible to Rome, than come to me ; and at the same time, (for I will acknowledge the truth, and you may hence infer the extent of my sufferings) I could not bring myself to face the man who i^ so dear to my heart, and see him weep with compassion over my affiictions ; nor could I suffer him to become the spectator of my misfortunes, and thus, by his generous sympathy, to share in them. I was even afraid of what must have happened, I mean, that he could not have left me ; I formed him to my imagination, either resigning the badges of his authority, or suffering himself to be torn by force from my embraces. I shunned this bitter afflic- tion by that of not seeing my brother. Such are the miseries I endure in consequence of your advice not to put an end to my life It is by fol- lowing this counsel that I am now punished. After all, your letters by which I perceive how '•wguine your hopes are, give me some comfort ; at TO ATTICUS. Its at least, I found in them some consolation till you came to that passage, " After you have gained Pompey, apply to Hortensius', and^the rest of his party."* What, my dearest Pomponius, are you still ignorant that these are the men by whose practi- ces, by whose intrigues, by whose perfidy^ I am ruined ! But I will talk this over with yourself, only I cannot help repeating what I believe, you know, that I was not ruined by those who hated, but by those who envied me. After all, if things are 1 Our author is most unreasonably peevish with this great man, and with the true spirit of jealousy gives us a great many hints,, as if Hortensius had helped to ruin him, that he might engross to himself the whole gtory of the bar. There is some* what extremely silly in all this, and nothing but Cicero's iop tolerable vanity x^ould have prevented him from seeing it. Fca: when things were brought to a desperate pass, and when all the attempts of Hortensius, and our author^s other friends, could not save him, what did Hortensius do ? '' You have (w© may suppose him to have said) done all that a good patriot ought to do, to save yourself. But act not now like a profligate citizea, •by taking up arms, by lighting up a civil war in your country, and anticipating her miseries. You are not fit for being a leader in so desperate an enterprize. Give way, therefore, like a good patriot to the storm 5 when it is blown over, we will omit no opportimity to serve you by constitutional mea- sures." This speech, from Cicero's own statement, conUins the sum of all the treachery of Hortensius towards him. Hor- tensius was as good as his word. For we find, from Cicero himself, that he was amongst the first to forward all the mea- sures for his being recalled, and eveaa exposed ^siife to the fiiry of Clodius upon that account. \ 184 CICERO'S EPISTLES as you hope, I will support myself, and enjoy the comforts which you present But if tliey are, as I apprehend tliem to be, I am determined that the action, which I was not at liberty to perform, when I might have done it with glory, shall be executed, though with less advantage to my character.. My Wife often remembers you with thanks. The affair of my unhappy brother is one of the misfortunes that give me concern. When I kpow the issue with regard to him, I shall be prepared to determine what course to take. According to your advice I remain at Thes- galonica, waiting for letters, and the effects pf those good offices you mention. As soon as I have fresh information, I shall speedily come to a resolution. I may every day expect to see you, if, as you write me, you left Rome on the 1st of June. I have sent vou the letter I wrote to Pompey. Dated from Thessalonica, June the 13th. EPISTLE X. A HAVE learnt from your letters all that passed till the 25th of May. I waited for accounts of what has happened since that time, by your ad- vice, at Thessalonica. When I have received them, I shall the more easily determine where I am TO ATTICUS. 185 I am tQ reside. For if there is occasion, if any thing is in hand, if I have any encouragement, I either will remain here, or I will repair to you, But if, as you inform me, there are but small hopes of such incidents, then must I determine on some other course. Hitherto, you have hin- ted nothing to me but the divisions that prevail among my enemies ; but those divisions spring from other matters than my concerns, I cannot therefor^ see how they can be of advantage to me. I will, however, humour you as to every circum- stance, from which you desire me to hope for the best. ' As to the frequent and severe reproofs you throw out against my want of fortitude, let me ask you whether there is an evil which is not in- cluded in my misfortunes ? Did ever man fall from so elevated a station, in so good a cause, with such advantages of genius, experience, and popularity, or so guarded by the interest of every worthy patriot ? Is it possible I should forget who I have been ; that I should not feel who I am ; what glory, what honour, what children, what fortunes, and what a brother I have lost ? A bro- ther, that you may know my calamities to be un- exampled, whom I loved, whom I have ever loved more than myself; yet have I been forced to avoid the sight of this very brother, lest I should either behold his sorrow and dejection, or pre- sent myself a wretch undone and lost, to him ■ who X, tu CICEROS EPISTLES who had left me in high and flourishing circum- fltances. I omit my other intolerable reflections thai still remain ; for I am stopped by my tears. Tell me am I most to blame, for giving vent to such sorrows, or for surviving my happy state, or for not still possessing it, which I easily might have done, had not the plan of my destruction been laid within my own walls. I write this that you may rather administer your wonted condolence than expose me as deserving of cen- sure and correction. I write but a short letter to you because I am prevented by my tears ; and the news I expect from Rome is of more importance to me than any thing I can write of myself. Whenever any thing comes to my knowledge I will inform you exactly of my re- solution. I beg you will continue to inform me so particularly of every thing, that I may be ignorant of nothing that passes. Dated from Thessalonica the 18th of June. TO ATTICUS. 187 EPISTLE XL OoME good news, though not of an unquestion- able authority, the receipt of some of your let- ters, the expectation of more, and your com- mands, detained me at Thessalonica. When I shall have received the letters I expect, and shall shall fiad any ground for hope in the report* that are now circulated I will repair to you ; if not, I will inform you of my proceeding. Con- tinue to assist me with your cares, your coun- sels, and your interest Leave off comfortiog me,' but do not reprove me ; when you do this, I greatly feel the want of your love, and condo- lence ; though I figure you in my mind, so af- fected by my troubles, that you are inconsolable yourself. Support my best beloved, my tender- est brother Quintus. I beg you will let me know all you can learn for certain. Dated thn 28th of June. EPISTLE XIL You take indeed great pains to convince me that I have reason to hope, especially from the senate ; and you tell me that a motion would have been made concerning me in that house, but that none has been made, because of the clause in my Act of Banishment against any such motion. Here you upbraid me for indulging my sorrows, while you are conscious to yourself that no man had ever greater cause to lament. You suggest that a favourable change will take place in the popular assemblies, but what ex- pectation 188 CICERO'S EPISTLES pectation can I entertain, while the acting tri- bune, and the consul elect' are my enemies. You also censure me in respect to the speech which has been lately published^, I beg that you will, if possible, repair the evil which its publi- cation has occasioned ; I own that I wrote it a great while ago, and under the influence of pas- sion ; but he gave the first provocation ; yet I took such care to suppress it, that I never ima- gined it could have appeared before the public. By what means it has been published I aiti igno- rant But as I never happened to have the least difference with him, and as it is less correctly composed than my other orations, I think it may be insisted, that it is not my composition. If you believe the woimd which this has occasioned me to be curable, I beg you to bestow upon it proper attention ; but if I am ruined, I am the more indifferent. Here I lie, still on the same spot, without the exercise either of my tongue or my thoughts. Though, as you mention, I de- sired ^ We learn from Appian, that it was enacted at Rome that when a tribune of the people could not immediately, upon his going out of that office, stand for another public office, he was to have the preference at the next tribunitial election. Clodius found the tribuneship too serviceable for him to quit it for one year 5 and the consul here mentioned was Metellus his ctiusin- german, and a determined enemy to Cicero. « This oration has not come to our hands, and it probahlv was written against Curio. TO ATTICUS. 189 wed you would come to me at Dodona, yet I understand you may be of real service to me in this affair, where you are, and that, if with me, you could give but little comfort even by your conversation. I can write no more, nor have I more subjects to write upon, I therefore the more earnestly wait for yours. Dated at Thes- salonica, the 17th of July. EPISTLE XIII. Y OUR letters lead me to entertain sanguine ex- pect^tions respecting what Pompey may do, or pretends to do, in my favour. I suppose by this time, the popular assemblies have been held. In these, you write me, he intended to introduce a motion for my restoration. If you think my hopes illgrounded, you are to reflect, that thej spring from the encouragement you gave me ; ait the same time, I am sensible that those letters used rather to check, than to encourage, mj fond wishes. At present I beg that you will re- present things to me as you really see them. I know that my repeated misconduct has brought me into all these troubles ; but should any fa- vourable occurrence in any degree rectify the consequences of them, I shall the less regret that I have lived, and still continue to live. I have 190 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. I»l I have not yet removed from Thessalonica, because the road I must pass is so public, and because I am in daily expectation of some happy change^; but I am now compelled to leave it, not by Plancius^ for he does all he can to re- tain me, but by the place itself, which offers no means to amuse me or to alleviate the weight of my sorrows. I did not, as I signified to you, go to Epirus, as I have been unexpectedly supplied with every necessary information, so that there is no necessity for my being nearer to Italy. If I receive any favourable news of the as- semblies, I will go hence to Asia, but to what particular place I am not yet determined. Where I am you shall know. Dated from Thessalonica the 21st of July. FPISTLE XIV. xxs to what I wrote to you concerning my in- tention of removing to Epirus, after I saw my hopes diminish and at last vanish, I altered my purpose ; * Orig. EgOy propter vUt celehritatem , et quotidianam expectationem rerum novarum, nan commovi me adhuc Thes-* salomca. This passage may be likewise translated, that Cicero remained at Thessalonica, because he had there the convenience of the great road for his intelligence, but my translation, I think, suits better with other passages of his Epistles. ' Ht was then quaestor of Macedonia. purpose ; nor did I leave Thessalonica, where indeed I intend to remain till I receive farther particulars respecting the motion which, as you hinted to me, Pompey intended to propose ia the popular assemblies. Since, therefore, that time is past, and since you wTite me nothing about it, I presume that you had nothing to write ; and I shall the less regret my disappoint- ment, as the period, in which 1 indulged my vain hopes, was of a short continuance ^ As to the advantageous turn, which, accord- ing to you, affairs are likely to take in my fa-, vour, they who come from Rome hither tell me it is all a delusion. My hope rests now upon the future tribunes of the commons, and if I live till they enter upon their charge, you cannot surely reproach me for having been wanting to my own interest, and to the zeal of my friends. You often accuse me with being too much de- jected under my misfortunes, but you ought to forgive * Monsieur Mongault justly observes, that all the commen- tators have been mistaken in this passage ; but I do not think, that he himself has been entirely happy in rectifying them. The original is, Neque temporis non longinqua spe ductum esse molesle feram. He translates it, II faudra me consoler de Ttietre lusquici laisse repaitre se vainemeui d'idee d'un retour prochain. But I think it is much more natural to understand the short period here mentioned to be meant of Pompey's mo- tion in the senate, which Cicero flattered himself would be soon made. 192 CICERO'S EPISTLES forgive me this weakness ; for you never saw^ you never heard of any one so distressed as I am. You tell me, that my sufferings have affect- ed my understanding. This is not true ; and I wish my judgment had been equally sound and clear at the time I united with those hostile and cruel traitors, whom I imagined to be the best friends to my interest and welfare; those who, when they saw me somewhat indisposed from apprehension, had recourse to all the arts of per- fidy and cruelty, as means to effect my ruin. Now as I am to remove to Cyzicum, where our opportunities of correspondence will be less frequent, I beg that you will be. the more careful to inform me of all you think I ought to know. I recommend to you my brother Quintus should I, in my misery, leave him in safety, I shall not think that the whole of myself is perished. Dated the 5th of August. EPISTLE XV. X RECEIVED, on the 13th of August, four of your letters. In the first, you reprove me for my unmanly spirit ; in the second, you inform me of what you learned from the freedman of Crassus, concerning my emaciated, desponding condition ; TO ATTICliS. 193 tonditioii ; in the third, you inform me of the proceedings in the Senate-house ; in the fourth, you tell me that Varro gives you fresh assuran- ces of Pompey's inclination to serve me. In answer to the first, I assure you, so far am I from being deranged, and consumed, by my misfortunes, I am doomed to regret that I have neither a place, nor persons, fit for em- ploying the stock of sense and spirit of which I am still possessed. For if it gives you pain to be without me, who am but one friend, what, think you, must I feel, who am cut off from you, and all the enjoyments I had upon earth? If you, in the flow of happiness, bewail my ab- sence, how must I mourn for the loss of happi- ness itelf ? I will not enumerate the blessings of which I am robbed, not only because you know them, but because I am unwilling to open the wounds of my affliction. I repeat it ; never di'd man fall, from a happiness so conspicuous and elevated, into such a depth of misery. As to time, so far from abating, it serves only to in- crease my sorrows. Other pains are alleviated, as they grow familiar to us ; but it is impossible that those I feel should not be daily increased by the sense of my present misery, and the re- membrance of my departed glory. I am depri- ved not only of my fortune and of my friends, but of myself. For what am I now ?— But I forbear to distress you by my complaints, or to Vol. I. O aggravate 17 194 CICERO'S EPISTLES aggravate my own wounds by opening them too often. You apologize for those, who, according to what I wrote you, envied me, and you put Cato in that number. So far am I from thinking him accessary to their treachery, that it gives me the most sensible concern to reflect, that their hypocrisy had more credit with me than hi^ sincerity. As to the rest, whom you endeavour to clear, they ought to stand acquitted by me if they are so with you. But these reflections are now too late ; the freedman of Crassus * appears not to have given a true and candid account of me. You tell me that my case was well con- ducted in the senate. But what shall I say of Curio ? Has he not read that oration, which in a way unknown to me has been made public. The letters however, which I received from Axius, concerning the proceedings of tlie same day, are not so lavish in Curio's praises. But he might perhaps omit somewhat; I rely that you have written to me nothing but what has ^actually happened. The account which Varro has given, leads me to entertain some hopes of Caesar ; and I trust that Varro himself w ould exert his influence in my favour ; and this surely he I This person has represented Cicero in a dreadful condi- tion, which Cicero, a little inconsistently with himself, en- deavours to contradict. ]4 1 TO ATTICUS. 195 he will do, when his own inclinations are promp- ted by your solicitations. Should ever fortune restore me to you and my country, you, of all my friends, should hav^ the best reason to rejoice ; and I should evince my obligations and affection towards you, which I acknowledge have hitherto but faintly appeared, with a zeal and diligence that shall give you equal cause with my brother and children to triumph in my restoration. If I have been de- ficient in my attention to your services, my friend, you will the more readily forgive me, as that in- attention has proved the cause of the greatest grievance to myself. I say this not from any apprehension that you are insensible to my afflic- tions. But to be plain with you, had your past and present affection for me been founded upon past and present gratitude, as well as in- clination, never could you have suffered me to have stood in need of that counsel with which you could have abundantly supplied me ; nor would you have suffered me to believe it would be to my advantage, that the law, concerning the companies of tradesmen, should pass ^ But you * This was a specious law which erected the craftsmen of Rome into companies, by which Glodius, and the tribunes, had a ready way of assembling their party. Cicero had fore- seen the inconvenience of this law, and was to have opposed it with 02 196 / CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 197 you have given my sorrows that share of sympa- thy which one owed to another or even to liim- self. If there has been any omission, it is to be imputed not to your, but to my, demerits ; as my services to you ought to have been such, as to claim all your days and night3, in order to ef- fect my welfare. Had you, ' or had any of my fi'iends (though you could have done it most ef- fectuallv) dissuaded me from that dishonourable stej) which I adopted, when alarmed by the un- generous reply of Pompey, I might have cither fallen with glory, or I might this day, have lived in triumph. Here you will pardon me, for 1 ac- cuse myself in the first place, and you in the next, as being my other self; and, at the same time, I am fond of excusing my misconduct, by laying part of the blame upon another. If I am resto- red from banishment, my miscarriages will not appear so heavy, at least, not in your eyes, be- cause your affection for me is the result of your inclinations, and not of my merit As to what you write of your conversation with Culeo, concerning the personality of the bill, and its being therefore invalid of itself, it has its weight, but still it would be better were it for- mally repealed. If no one opposes the repeal, what can be more valid ? But if it receives a ne- gative, with all his might, by means of the tribune Nennius, one of his friends, but he was dissuaded from his opposition, not perhaps without good reason^ by his other friends. « * sative, the decree of the Senate can still inter- pose, and then there would be nothing to do but to repeal it singly. As to the former law, it did not in the least affect me, it never could have prejudiced me in any shape, whether I had praised it, as it is already passed, or neglected it as it deserves \ Here my foresight not only abandoned, ^ In order to the reader's understanding the whole of this- passage, it is necessary he should be acquainted with the fol- lowing particulars. We have already seen, in the course of these letters, how useful the friendship of our author had been to Pompey, who repaid him with a profusion of fine speeches; extolling his conduct, his genius, his learning, and in short, touching upon every thing that could flatter his vanity, whicH was his foible. At the same time he gave him the strongest assurances, that Clodius neither could nor would pursue his re- sentment against him to extremities. But, even by Cicero'a own accounts, I do not find that Pompey's promises went so far as that he would take up arms in our author's defence, if matters were brought to an extremity. Clodius, who seems to have had great genius, and to have been, next to Caesar, one of the most understanding men in Rome, knew very well that Pompey durst not break with him as long as he stood well with Caesar. He treated, however, Cicero in all discourses to Pom- pey, with a sneering kind of civility, and which Pompey, though he understood his meaning well enough, repeated, to our author, as current professions. Atticus apj>ears to hav6 had but a very slender opinion of Pompey's sincerity, which is the reason why our author, in all his letters to Atticus, pre- tends to distrust it, but, in reality, he was betrayed by his owii vanity, and he had a greater reliance upon Pompey, than he was willing to own. This appears from Cicero's conduct. For I do not find, notwithstanding all he says, that he took anj precautious 198 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 199 abandoned, but ruined me\ We were blind, I repeat it, we were blind in changing our garment* and precautions for breaking the force of Clodius's faction. His excessive vanity was indeed flattered, and nobody behaved to him like a gentleman, excepting Caesar, whose abiUties were too great to put him, as was the case of Pompey, upon the necessity of serving his interest at the expence of his honour. he certainly had a great contempt for Cicero as a politician, or a man of resolution, but he was too goodnatured not to pardon his foibles, and too great not to admire his abilities, as a speaker and a scholar. He would willingly have saved him, as appears from many passages of our author's letters, but finding he could not, he took care to be as general towards him as possi* We, that he might set him softly down. And indeed I do not find, that Cicero in fact, had reason to complain either of in- gratitude or want of honour in Caesar. But this was far from being his case with regard to Pompey. For, perceiving that he could not hold out without the assistance of Caesar and Pompey, and having given the former great cause of disgust, he applied the more assiduously to Pompey for his friendship. But Pompey pretending to be afraid of his own person, retired to his country-house, to avoid the importunity of Cicero, and bis friends, who consisted of all the men of quality, and for- tune in Rome. These followed Pompey to his retirement. But after many shifts and evasions, Pompey refused to concern himself for Cicero, as a private man in opposition to the senti- ments of the consuls, and the conduct of the tribunes. This was a fair, though a flat, and I think a constitutional, refusal. But it did not cure our orator of the vanity of believing, that Pompey was still his friend in his heart. He therefore endea- voured to apply to him in person, but Pompey, to avoid an in- terview with him, which must be disagreeable to both, slipt out at one door of his house, as Cicero was entering at the other. In i ^ and supplicating the people, it was a fatal step, unless they had first pointed at me by name. But In the meanwhile, Clodius having entered upon his tribune- ship on the lOth of December, in the year of Rome 694, pro- ceeded with infinite address to the ruin of Cicero, To ingra- tiate himself with Caesar, he affronted Bibulus. To please the people he procured a free distribution of corn in the time of scarcity, and a re-establishment of the trading companies or communities taken notice of in^tliis epistle, with an erection of new ones, by which he could at a breath raise all the popu- lace. Pretending that the censorial authority (which was in- deed pretty arbitrary) had been abused, he proposed that the censors should have no power of stigmatizing any senators, who were not previously impeached, and condemned by their own body. Hrnext carried through a law which abolished the ^lian and Fusian laws, by taking from the augurs, who were generally on the side of the senate, the liberty of putting a stop to all business before the people, under pretence of their making observations on the heavens. I shall not enter here upon any controversy, whether the government of Rome, which Cicero so warmly supported, was at this time, any better than a faction against the people, whether this does not, from the confession of Cicero and other authors who were friends to that government, appear plainly to have been the case, and whether the measures, proposed by Clodius, were not, in themselves (for I speak not either of their motives or consequences) both just and constitutional. Be this as it will, Cicero either could not, or would not, make any effectual opposition to those measures, which rendered Clodius excessively popular with the commons. Even the wisest of the senatorial party thought, that the laws of Oodius spoke so strongly for themselves, that they were iiot to be opposed, and of this number was Atticus, Hortensius, and even Cato. But our author, who at this time, when he speaks of /' 90» CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 201 But I omit what is past, for this reason, that if any measure be agitated you may not be preju- diced of the constitution^ the laws and liberties of his country, has no other meaning, but his own person, was conscious, tliat tiie popularity of Clodius, pointed at his destruction, though he was forced to acquiesce. The next measure of Clodius was to bring in a bill against all persons^ *' who should cause a Roman citizen to be put to death, without his being previously con- demned by the people." There was a strong current of law and practice in the Roman constitution to support this bill, and indeed I think the necessity of the juncture is the best defence that can be made for Cicero, for putting the conspirators of Catiline to death in the manner he did. . This biU of Clodius, however, alarmed the senate, because Cicero had acted by their decree, and in terms of the Julian law, which subjects traitors to death. Even Caesar was against any particular application of this law to himself, before Clodius did it -y for he and his friends put on mourning as if he had been already formally impeached, and went about abjectly so- liciting the citizens for their interest. This imprudence put it out of Caesar's and Pompey's power either to save or to serve Cicero ; and as neither of the consuls, Gabinius and Piso, were his friends, he could find no branch of the executive power of government that would interpose in his behalf. I shall not take up the reader's time with what followed, previous to the banishment of Cicero, who now lost all spirit. Clodius pro- ceeded against him in the most furious manner. Pompey, Caesar, and Crassus were at best cold and indiiFerent, and were only afraid lest Clodius should push his popular excesses far- ther than was consistent with the views tliey had prescribed to themselves. The friend^ of Cicero were divided, and there was now no medium between Cicero standing his ground, and thereby liazardinga cruel civil war, with a general massacre of |he senate, and his retiring from the storm. He wisely, I think. j> * A . <( €C (< tc ec t( diced against a law, which in many respects is conducive to the public interests. It think, followed the latter course, and Clodius then brought lip a bill, against him, to the people, in the following words. *' Forasmuch as Cicero did cause several Roman citizens to be put to death without an ordinance of the people, and without any form of justice, and did, for that end, produce false and spurious Senatus Consulta, or Orders of the Senate, may it please you to ordain, and be it ordained accordingly, that he be forbidden the use of fire and water ; that it may not be lawful, for any person whatever, to '< give him harbour or shelter ; that if any body presumes so to " do, it may be lawful to kill both Cicero, and the person *^ with whom he shall be found ; that no body shall have liber- " ty to propose, to the senate, to have him recalled ; that *' if any body shall act contrary to this prohibition, no member <^ of that house may give his opinion by word of mouth or « otherwise, upon the proposition that shall be made, nor '^ subscribe to any thing that may be resolved upon in his " favour, till those persons, that he put to death, are re- " turned from the other world.*' This brings me to consider the sense of the original in this - passage, which is, I think, as important and as perplexed as ..any thing in our author's works. Orig. Quod te cum Culeone scrihis de privilegio locutum, est aliquid ; sed multo est melius alrogari. Si enim nemo impediet, quid est Jirmius ? Sin erit, quiferri non sin at ; idem Senatus consulto intercedat. Nee quicquam aliud opus est, quam alrogari. Nam prior Lex nos nihil laedelat. Quam si, ut est promulgata, laudare voluissemus, aut, ut erat negligenda, negligere ; nocere omnino nobis non potuisset. Monsieur Mongault is of opinion, that the Privikgium here spoken of is to be applied to the law of Clodius, which Culeo, and Cicero's other friends, thought invalid, because, says he, all I ( 20£ CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 203 It is, however, foolish in me, to give you di- lections as to what you are to do, or in what manner you are to act, I only wish somewhat were done; in this respect, your letters conceal a great deal from me, fearing, I suppose, that I may be driven to some more violent despair. For what do you expect to be done ? In what manner? And can any thing be expected of the senate ? Remember that you yourself wrote me word, that Clodius had fixed up, in the portico of the senate-house, that article of the Clodian law, that no motion should be made for my return, nor should aB pTWilegia, or laws pointing to private persons, are forbidden by the twelve tables i and the law, which we have recited, was no other than a pnvilegntm. Monsieur Morabin, the excellent author of the History of Cicero*s Banishment, has not explain- ed himself upon this head, though he seems to lean towards the sense of Mongault. But neither of them have taken notice of the commentary of the learned Manutius, who supposes, that a privilegium, in favour of Cicero, might have been brought before the people by way of bill, provided it took its rise from m resolution of the senate. He, therefore, supposes Culeo to have proposed to Atticus the bringing in such a bill. I have translated the whole passage, in the manner I thought most agreeable to Cicero's meaning, and the practice of antiquity ; and, indeed, Cicero seems to have judged right, in wishing to bave the partiAilar law, pointing at him, repealed j and to make a compliment to C«sar, and the enemies of the senate, in suf- fering the former general law to stand. ' There is a great peculiarity in the original here, which I have copied in the translation. Orig. Hie mikiprimum meum muilium defuit, sed etiam ohfuit. \ should it be mentioned. In what manner, tliere- fore, did Domitius propose to make the motion? What a sullen silence did Clodius preserve to those persons, who, as you mention, both spoke of my recall, and demanded that the motion should be made concerning it? Is this measure to be carried through by the commons ? How can that be, unless all the tribunes are unani- mous for it ? Can I be restored to my estate ? Can I return to my house ? If I cannot, how can I be said to return to Rome ? Unless you take care that those difficulties are removed, what are the hopes to which you invite me ? If hope is gone, what life remains for me ? I, therefore, wait at Thessalonica for the proceedings of the 1st of August, which will determine me either to go to Cyzicum, or to fly towards your estate, where I can avoid the sight of those I hate, and where, as you write me word, I shall see you, and be nearer at hand, should any measures be taken. At the same time, I understand, that both you, and my brother, are pleased with this proposal. Now, my friend, as you did not, for my safe- ty, exert your wisdom, either because you had too good an opinion of mine, or because you thought you acquitted yourself of all you owe to me, by giving me your attendance ; since, after being betrayed, persuaded, and deluded, I have neglected all the means of my safety ; since I have 204 CICERO'S EPISTLES have abandoned and forsaken all the people of Italy, who rose for my sake, and to defend me ; since I have delivered up myself to my enemies, while you stood by a silent spectator, under fewer apprehensions, if not possessed of more wisdom, than I ; as this is my most melancholy situation, do what you can to raise the prostrate, and in so doing, you assist me. But if all the avenues of safety are shut up, do me the favour to let me know the truth; and cease, at last, to load me with your reproaches, or to sooth me with comfort. Never would I have trusted myself un- der your roof, as my chief refuge, had I a doubt of your honour; I have only but my own mad- ness to accuse in thinking you loved me, as well as I was fond to believe you did. Had that been the case, your friendship would have been the same, but your application greater. You, doubt- less, would have stopt me when rushing to ruin, and spared yourself the toils you now undergo, in this shipwreck of my fortune. Send me, therefore, a clear and circumstantial account of the matter. . Continue to permit me to be of some consequence, though I cannot be of that importance I lost, while I might have improved it; and look upon this letter to come from me, not as accusing you, but myself. If you think it proper to write to any persons in my name, I beg that you would do it; and take care that the let- ters be delivered. Dated the 19th of August j_. EPISTLE TO ATTICUS. 205 EPISTLE XVL Nothing but waiting for your letters, concern- ing what passed on the 1st of August, keeps me undetermined as to the whole of my journey. If they give me auy encouragement, I will set out forEpirus; if not, for Cyzicum, or follow some other course. But the oftener I peruse your let- ters, my hopes become the fainter; because, upon considering them, they weaken all the encourage- ment they suggest; and, it is easy to perceive, that you want to sooth, without deceiving, me. I, therefore, entreat you to represent matters to me as they actually are; and your own sentiments, as they really occur to yourself. Dated the 21st of August. EPISTLE XVIL I HAVE received several melancholy, but con- curring accounts, concerning my brother Quin- tus, from the 5th of June to the last of August; when LivineiusS thefreedman of Marcus Regu- lar ^ 1 His name was Lucius Livineius Trypho, and he did our author particular services during his exile. £06 CICERO'S EPISTLES lus\ came to me from his patron. He told me there was no mention of any thing ; but that some reports were circulated, concerning the son of Caius Clodius*; and, at the same time, he brought me letters from my brother. But, next day, the slaves of Sestius^ came with letters from you; which were not in that confident strain in which livineius talked. I feel indeed distracted, under my inexpressible anguish; and I am the more anxious, as the trial comes within the depart- ment of Appius. You write me, by the same conveyance, an account of what I am to hope for; but that, I perceive, is less flattering than what is transmit- ted to me by others. For my own part, as the time for deciding the matter cannot be far off, I will either repair to you, or I will, as I now do, hover about these places. My brother w rites me word, that you are the only support of his inte- rest. Need I to encourage you to continue your friend- * Marcus Livineias Regulus was qaaestor next year, and tri- buoe in the year of Rome 701 . He afterwards served in the civil war under Caesar, as proquaestor. • Tkis young gentleman was nephew to Publius Clodius. He afterwards impeached Milo for his uncle's murder; and it was thought that, at this time, he would have preferred an im- |icachment against Quintus, our author's brother, in which Appius, the brother of Clodius, was to be the judge. ^ H« was designed tribune^ and Cicero afterwards prouounced an oration in his defence. TO ATTICUS. 207 friendship, or shall I return you the thanks which you do not claim ? All I wish is, that fortune may put us in the way to be safe and happy, in the enjoyment of our mutual love and friend- ship. I am always excessively impatient for let- ters from you ; nor need you fear that your ^jr;. feiduousness in writing will give me trouble, W. your sincerity pain. Dated the 4th of September. "-' EPISTLE XVIII. \ ov raised my expectation very high, when you wrote me word, that our friend Varro had given you fresh and well-grounded assurances, that Pompey would interest himself in my favour; and that he would even move for my restoration in the senate, as soon as he shall receive tiie let- ters he expected from Caesar. Is this a fact; or are Caesar's letters unfavourable to me? Have I still any hopes left? For you wrote me, tliat he gave you the same assurance, after the elec- tion was over. By all the woes 1 suffer, and by your own feeling heart, I conjure you, make me certain as to the true and Avhole state qf my case. That excellent man, that dearest J&iend, my brother Quintus, fills all his letters with mighty hopes, fearing, I suppose, that I may be too much dejected. As to your letters, they are of J 208 CICERO'S EPISTLES of a different strain. They are against my en- tirely desponding, or my rashly hoping. I beg that you will acquaint me with every thing that comes to your knowledge. EPISTLE XIX. As long as your letters afforded me some ground of encouragement, I was detained at Thessalo- nica by hope and desire. But, after I could no longer expect that any thing should be done this year^ I declined going into Asia ; both because 1 hate a crowd, and because I was unwilling to be at a distance, if any measure should be at- tempted by our new magistrates. I have, there- fore, determined to come to your house in Epi- rus ; not that I am invited by the beauty of your seat, for I no longer seek the light; but I would most gladly return from you, as from a harbour, to security and honour ; and if the port to which I would direct my course, be not again open to receive me, I can, no where else with more com- fort, either endure, or (which is much more eli- gible,) fling from me this detested load of life. I will dismiss my train, and come with but a few domestics. My other correspondents have always flattered me more than you have; yet your encouragement has never been near so faint as my own hopes. But I TO ATTICUS. 209 . But let things take their course; let them pro- cede, bad as they have commenced. I will sus- tain the consequences. I will not disregard the entreaties of my w^eeping, distressed and only brother ; the assumnces of Sestius, and my other friends; the hopes of my wife, the most dejected ^ of womankind; the cries of my daughter, the* most wretched of her sex, or your letters, that are so full of friendship'. Epirus will either open a path to my happiness, or— I need not repeat it'. My friend, as you see me, by the treachery of mankind, stripped of all that is great, of all that is dear, of all that is desirable in life ; as you are sensible that I have been be- trayed, and am become an outcast through those who advised me; and that I have been pushed on to the ruin of myself and family, I beg and con- jure you to assist me by your pity; to^ure to my brother, the means of safety that are yet left him, and to protect my wife and children. You need not doubt of my repairing to Rome, if' you have 1 The menaces of Cicero to put an end to his life, alarmed his family and friends ; and they appeared to have written to him in tlie most persuasive and affecting manner, not to offer him- self any violence. To their etitreaties, in this respect, he here alludes 5 and he assures his friend, that he will bear under the evils which awaited him, however oppressive they might prove. — E. * Orig, Aut quod scrtpsi supra. Vol. I. P % 210 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUa £11 have any hopes of my return; if not, come, if you can, to see me in Epirus, and allot me so much of your ground, as may serve for my grave. In the meanwhile, let me hear, by your slaves, as often and as early as you can. Dated the l6th of September. EPISTLE XX. X WISH you joy of your new^ designation , and I most sincerely compliment you upon the ha- nourable part which your uncle acted towards you; were it proper for a man, wretched like me, to use the word, I would say, that I re- joice at it Unhappy man ! yet how desirable might my life have been, liad I not been aban- doned by my own courage, my own resolution, and the friendship of the men I trusted. Recol- lection is painful; it adds to my dejection. But you, my friend, 1 know, will recollect what a life mine was; how dignified, how delightful. I con- jure you, by your own fortune, to apply your- self, that I may recover mine; and that I may celebrate the anniversary of my return at your charm- * Atticus had been lately adopted by his uncle, Quintus Gae- cilius, and thus he assumed the name of Caecilius Pomponianus; which was as much as to say, Caecilius of the family of tlie Pomponii. ; / I « 'if r'> I charming palace, in yonr company and that of my friends. For this event, which I fondly wish, and of which am led to entertain a distant hopef, I am yet desirous to wait at your house in Epirus; though I conclude, from the letters sent me, that I am more conveniently situated where I am\ You are rightly informed^ as to my house and the speech of Curio. If I am restored, I shall be restored, in general, to all my possessions ; and of those I prefer none to my house. But I recommend nothing to you particularly ; I en- tirely rely upon your affection and friendship. I am extremely pleased to hear that so great a for- tune, as is fallen to you, has rid you- of al^ M^ cumbrances. I readily perceive of what advan- tage it is to my affairs, when you offer me your purse • 1 Tlie translation, as it stood in the former edition, is with- out any meaning; and, indeed, the commentators appear to have understood the passage as little as our tVatistator. Tfie original is — Ego huic spei ct expectntioni, quce nolis proponiiur maxime tamen volui prcestolari apud te in Epiro: sed ita ad vie scril'itur, tit putem esse commodius nos iisdem in locis esse.-^ Cicero fondly -wished for his return. Of this but a distant pros- pect was held up to hi? views by his friends : yet, however dis- tant it was, he preferred going to Epirus, and there continue'in waiting for it : for prcestolari signifies to wait in expectatiottl and, in strict propriety, is applied to a person, who w^ / EPISTLE XXI. J. HE day on w^hich I write this letter is the 30th, since I had one from you. As to myself, I had resumed the resolution^ of which I before ac- quainted you, to go to Epirus; and to make that my chief residence till I should know my fate. I beg that you will write me, in the fullest man- ner, all that 'you can learn, of whatever nature it may be ; and that you will, in my name, as you mention, send letters to all whom you think proper to apply to. Dated the 28th of Oc- tober. EPISTLE XXII. X HOUGH my brother Quintus and Piso have been very particular in their accounts of all that has passed, yet I could have wished that your business had not prevented yon from sending me information, as usual, of all that is passing, and your own sentiments upon it. The civil beha- viour of Plancius still detains me here, though I have made repeated attempts to set out for Epirus. That gentleman has a hope, which is very distant from my thoughts, that we may set out together; a circumstance which he imagines would do him a great deal of honour. But now that au CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 215 that I hear soldiers are marching this way, I think it is high time to leave him. As soon as I take my leave, I will instantly acquaint you where I am. I am somewhat encouraged to hope for the good offices of Pompey, frem the services which Lentulus has done me, and whicli he has signi- fied both in facts, promises, and writing; for you have often informed me, that Pompey was wholly under the direction of Lentulus. My brother informs me, that all hopes of gaining Metellus must be by your means. Use, my dear- est friend, your utmost endeavours, that I may be once more at liberty to live with you and my friends; and write me all that passes. I am weighed down with grief, by the loss of all that I ever held dear ; farewel. If I had gone to £pirus, through Thessaly, I must have been a long time without receiving any intelligence. I, therefore, went by the way of Durazzo, because the people of that place sincerely are my friends ; and I there finish this letter, which I had begun at Thessalonica. I «ill inform you when I set out from hence for your house. I beg you to write me most parti- cularly of every thing that occurs, be what it will. Now is the time that must crown my suc- cess, or must finish my hopes. Dated from Du- razzo, 26th of November. EPISTLE S^ EPISTLE XXIIL Three of your letters came to my hands on the 27th of November. In one of them, dated the 25th of October, you encourage me to be in good spirits till the month of January; and this encouragement is founded upon the zeal of Len- tulus, the affection of Metellus, and the general plan of Pompey. Your next letter I read was (a thing not usual with you,) without a date; but, ind'eed, it sufficiently intimates its own date. For after the promulgation^ of the law, by the eight tribunes of the commons, you write, that you had sent off the letter that very day, mean- ing the 29th of October; and you inform me of all the services, which you imagine that pro- mulgation has done to my interest. But if, even with the advantage of this promulgation, my cause should be desperate, 1 beg, by all your affection to me, that you regard my solicitude to be the effect of wretchedness, rather than of impertinence. However, if there is still any spark 1 Ninnius, the tribune, and his seven colleagues, of their own accord, when it was not expected from Aem, presented anodier bill to the senate for the recalling of our orator, and the restoring him to all his honours; but there was no provision made in this for the reparation of his fortune. / 216 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 217 spark of hope, I beg you will use your influence with the new magistrates, to espouse my cause. For that bill of the former tribunes contained three articles ; the first, which was not sufiiciently definite, respected my restoration. Agreeably to this article, I am to be restored only to my former rank and dignity; a happiness, I must confess, to one in my situation. But you are no stranger to the othet* provisions that ought to have been made, and in what terms they should have been conceived. The otlier article was a matter of form, I mean a clause of impunity, for those who should, by the enaction of this, infringe other laws. As to the third article, I beg, my dearest friend, that you will inform yourself with what view, and by what person, it was inserted. You know that Clodius* procured an act, which rendered it next to impossible, if not w^holly so, either for the senate or the peo- ple to repeal his law. You will, however, ob- serve that such acts, for perpetuating the validity of laws, are not always themselves deemed va- lid ; for, indeed, if they were, it would become almost impracticable to repeal any law ; for we can imagine no law will omit fortifying itself against a repeal. But the auxiliary act is, in fact, repealed along with the law to which it is attached. As this is a matter of tact, so the practice of it has been constant and unvariable ; and our eight tribunes of the commons brought >" m N (( <( f this; for in an assembly of the people, on the 3d of November, he said, " That this clause " ought to serve as a rule to the conduct of the " succeeding tribunes of the people;" and yet you are sensible there is no clause of this kind in any other law; whereas, were it necessary, it would be inserted in all acts of repeal. I beg you will inform yourself how this came to escape Ninnius, and the other persons, who introduced it; and why the eight tribunes of the commons did not hesitate to propose a motion, in my be- half, in the senate-house. Whether they were of opinion that no regard was to be paid to that ar- ticle: if so, why were they so cautious in repeal- ing it, as to be afraid of it, when actually they "had broken through a precaution that may be neglected, even by those who are bound by that law. I am absolutely unwilling that the new tri- bunes of the people should propose such a clause; but in whatever shape they introduce their bill, provided it is effectual, I shall be sa- tisfied with that clause which restores me to my country. I have already thought this letter too long- TO ATTICUS. 219 long; I am even afraid that, before it comes to your hand, my condition will be desperate ; and thus the pains I have taken will only serve to in- crease the anguish of my friends, and the satis- faction of my enemies. But if you still have any hopes, consult the law which Visellius^ framed for Titus Fadius, for I think it a good model I cannot say the same of that drawn up by our friend Sextius, though you seem to ap- prove of it. Your third letter is dated the 12 th of Novem- ber ; there you lay before me, with great abili- ties and accuracy, all the circumstances respect- ing Crassus, Pompey, and. others, that are likely to retard my return. I therefore entreat you, that, if you have any hope of success from the zeal and authority of patriots, or even from the concourse of the populace ^ endeavour, by a stre- * He was the same with Culeo we mentioned before. * The former translation represents Cicero as advising his friends to have recourse to arms, if likely to be successful, to effect the decree of his restoration. This is doing him great in- justice, and is very wide of his meaning. There were leading men among the populace of Rome, who were sometimes hired by the magistrates to second their measures, and to give coun* tenance to their motions. These, with their numerous depend- ents, attended in the forvim and in the assemblies ^ ai>d they are those whom Livy calls turlaforensis, and Cicero condones con^ ductcB; and to* the same venal crowd he alludes, by the clause comparata multitudine. See Adam's Antiq. p. 17. — ^E. CICEROS EPISTLES strenuous effort, to crush opposition \ Follow this measure with spirit, and arouse the rest of my friends to join you. But if (as I see you hint, and I have always feared, ) my hopes are at an end, I solemnly request you to love my brother Quintus, of whose miseries mine have been the cause. Suffer him not to sink into greater des- pondency, than is inconsistent with the interests of your sister's son. Protect, ats far as you are able, my Cicero, my unhappy babe, to whom I can bequeath no other legacy, than the destruc- tion and ignominy of his father's name. Sus- tain, by your obliging offices, my wife Terentia, the most distressed o.f women. As soon as I know the transactions of the first days of the election of the tribunes, I will set out for Epi- rus. I beg you will notice, in your next letters, what passes after their entrance upon their of- fice. Dated the last of November. EPISTLE ^ Desoperamut uno impeiu perfringaiur — endeavour that ai one effort the opposition may be broken. The nominative case to perfringatur is understood to be C/oc?ii/5, the enemy of Cicero j or if, with Manutius, we read perfringantur, Clodius and his followers must be meant. Nothing is more common in all au- thors, than to omit a noun, when from the context, or the pre- dominant train of the writer's ideas, it is obvious what noun is intended. There is, therefore, no necessity to substitute, with GroEvius, the verb perjungamur-, which, indeed, would con- Tcj a different meaning from that of our author.— E. TO ATTICUS. 521 EPISTLE XXIV. When, in a former letter, you wrote me that the appointments for the consular provinces had been made with your approbation, though I was afraid of bad consequences from those appoint- ments, yet still I was in hopes that you had rea- sons sufficiently weighty for your consent. But when I afterwards understood, both from what was told, and what was written to me, that you was highly blamed, I felt great uneasiness'; be- cause it seemed to extinguish the faint glimmer- ing of hope that was still left us. For if the tri- 1 There seems to have been a piece of secret management in this part of our author's history, which \ye are at a loss, at this day, to clear up 5 for Atticus thought it so improper to commit it to writing, that he took a journey to Cicero in person, to give him an account of his conduct on this occasion. The measure, however, that Cicero blames here is, at first sight, very un- accountable. Cicero's great dependance now was upon the conduct of the new tribunes of the people, eight of whom were heartily in his interests; and it was a great point for him that they should have it in their power to make terms with the cbnsuls elect, upon the allotment of their provinces, which was entirely at the option of the tribunes. But the latter were de- prived of an opportunity of making such terms by the forward- ness of the senators, who to oblige Lentulus and Metellus Ne- pQS, the consuls elect, had, contrary to all precedents, given them their choice of their appointments and provinces, before they entered upon the actual exercise of their functions, by which, at first sight, Cicero seemed to lose a capital advantage. 2£2 CICERO'S EPISTLES tribunes of the commons are made our enemies, what can we farther hope for ? They surely can- not be expected to be my friends; those who have espoused my cause, act without discretion; and as, by my concession, they have lost all the weight which they might otherwise have had in this affair; especially, as they say, that it was my interest alone that made them wish for an in- fluence in the consular appointments; not that they wanted to retard them, but that they might have made the consuls my friends; whereas, if the consuls should now oppose me^ they can do it with a better check upon their conduct ; but that they cannot befriend me, without the con- currence of the tribunes. You write me that, supposing I had refused my consent, the consuls would have gained their point with the people. But let me ask you, could they have prevailed with the people against the interposition of the tribunes? Upon the whole, I am afraid that we have forfeited the friendship of the tribunes; or if we have still their friendship, that the connec- tion, between them and the consuls, so necessary for our interest, is broken. I can see another great inconveniency in this, that we have forfeited, as I am very well in- formed, all the force of the important decree made by the senate, *' that they would proceed *' to no other business before tliey had finished (( my TO ATTICUS. 223 " my affair;" and what renders this the worse is the circumstance, that the measure ^ was not only in itself unnecessary, but unprecedented and un- usual. Never, I believe, till now, were the ap- pointments of the provinces, of designed con- suls, regulated; so that, as they have receded from that resolution, which they adopted on my account, it is hard to say what decrees they may pass. I am at a loss to account for the motives that induced my friends and agents to be for this mea- sure. Few persons can be disposed openly to fly in the face of the obvious interests of two consuls. It was a point of great difficulty to stand out against Lentulus, who was amongst the best of my friends ; or Metellus, who had, with great humanity, laid aside his resentment towards me. But I am very apprehensive that we cannot keep, in our interests, both the consuls and the tribunes. Write to me, as you have proposed, upon this matter, and how the whole of it standi; for though the truth may not be agreeable, yet I shall receive it from you with kindness. Dated December the lOtli. EPISTLE * Of the consular appointments. CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 225 EPISTLE XXV. After your departure, I received your let- ter from Rome, by which I perceive that I must linger out my life under this load of wretched- ness. Be not offended at what I say. But had there been the smallest hope of my preservation, you would not, loving me as you do, have left Rome', at this juncture. But 'lest I should be reproached with ingratitude, or with wishing all to be involved in my calamity, I will say no more. I beg of you that you will perform your promise in seeing me, wherever I may be, before January. EPISTLE XX VL m From your letters, and the nature of my situa- tion I perceive that my case no longer admits of any hope. I beg that in all matters, in which my family, may want your assistance, you will not forsake them in their distress. I expect to see you as soon as you promise. EPISTLE I There is some reason for beneving from this passage that this letter is misplaced by Editors. J EPISTLE XXVIL 1 HAVE received letters from my brother Quin- tus with the Senate's decree concerning me \ I have some thoughts of w aiting till the law is passed; but if it should be delayed I will lay hold of the resolution ^ of the Senate, and re- sign ^ I have, contrary to all editions of these Epistles, made this the last letter in this "book, because the Senatus consultum mentioned here, could be no other than that Senatus consultum which imported, " that the consuls should send circular letters " throughout all Italy to invite all the freemen, that were " well affected to the commonwealth and desired its preserva- *' tion, to repair immediately to Rome." It is true, the date which is affixed to this letter, viz. the 24th of December, does not agree with the day upon which the Senatus consultum passed, which was not till some months after. But then it is as true, that only one edition of those letters, that of Fictori- dus, gives any date at all to this letter, 2 Orig. Utar auctoritate Senatus, There is one circum- stance which has been neglected by most commentators and translators and which, if not attended to, will create inexpres- sible difficulties in reading our author*s works, and indeed those of any other classic. The distinction I mean is that be- tween a Senatus consultum, and the Auctoritas Senatus. The Senatus consultum was no other than a resolution agreed to by the house, without receiving any negative tliat could defeat its purpose. But in the senatorial language, Auctoritas was a very different thing from what we call authority in English, For it was a Senatus consultum rendered abortive and ineffectual, by the Vol. L Q 226 CICEROS EPISTLES sign my life rather than my country. I beg you will make haste to join me. Farewel. the interposing negative of one or more tribunes. However, notwithstanding such a negative, tlie motion, or rather resolu- tion, was regularly entered upon the registers or journals of the house, and thereupon was called the Auctoritas Senatus, or the registered sense of the senate. Now the Auctoratas mentioned here by our author, was that which was registered upon the Ist of January for his return. CICEROS " ' " ' ^ ' ss CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK IV. EPISTLE I. zxs soon as I came to Rome, and found out a person by whom I could directly forward a letter to you, I thought it my first duty, as you were not in the city, to felicitate you on my re- turn. For, to tell you the truth, I knew by ex- perience that in giving me advice, you were neither more firm nor wiser than myself; and considering my past attachment to you, not over anxious about my welfare and preservation. But I knew at the same time that you, who, in the beginning of my misconduct, or rather phrenzy, were my partner and companion in it, and in all my imaginary fears felt, with bitter regret, my Q 2 separation, 228 CICERO'S EPISTLES separation, and exerted all your endeavours, your zeal, your application and labour, to ac- company my return to you. You will there- fore easily believe me, when I tell you, that your presence, your smiles, your congratulation were the only blessings wanted to complete my joy and crown my triumph. Never, if once united to you, will I suffer you to leave me, and I shall think fortune, by restoring me, has been more kind than I deserve, unless I make myself amends for all the past loss I have suffered of your most agreeable company. With regard to my situation, at present, I have regained my figure at the bar, my dignity in the Senate-house, and that friendship of the worthy, which always has been my ambition, and all in a greater degree' than I possessed before my banishment, and with less difficulty than I imagined. As to my private affairs, I meet with inexpressible opposition, and you know how they have been ruined, squandered, and plunder- ed. I stand not so much in need of your purse, which 1 It is no unusual thing in life, especially public life, for those who opposed a measure when the success of it was doubt- ful, to push it on extravagantly, when it is more than probable that it will be carried. Charles II. upon his return to England, could not imagine where the people were, who had kept him out so long. This was a very natural sentiment, and agreeable to what is several times expressed by our author upon the like occasion. ,i TO ATTICUS. 229 vhich I look Upon to be the same as my o\vn, as your counsels, in order to repair and settle the wrecks of my fortune* At present, though I suppose you have been informed of all, either by letters from your friends, or by common re- ports and messengers, yet I will give you a short account of what I imagine you are most desirous to know, under my own hand* I left Durazzo on the 4th of August, being the day on which the decree for my return was published. On the 5th I came to Brundusium, where I met my Tulliola, who kept her birth-day with me, it being the same with the anniversary of the Brundusian Colony, and of the dedication of the temple of public welfare^ The people had no sooner learnt this circumstance, than all Brundusium rang with shouts and congratulati- ons. While I was at Brundusium, on the 8th of the same month, I understood, by letters from my brother Quintus, that the decree for repeal- ing my banishment, had passed the Assembly of the Centuries, to the inexpressible satisfaction 6f all ranks and ages, and with an unexampled concourse from all Italy. Having received the highest civilities from all men of distinction at Brundusium, I set out from thence, and received, in my journey, the compliments of the deputies, who flocked from all quarters. When I drew near to Rome, there was not a person in that city, rc^- 228 CICERO'S EPISTLES separation, and exerted all your endeavours, your zeal, your application and labour, to ac- company my return to you. You will there- fore easily believe me, when I tell you, that your presence, your smiles, your congratulation were the only blessings wanted to complete my joy and crown my triumph. Never, if once united to you, will I sufter you to leave me, and I shall think fortune, by restoring me, has been more kind than I deserve, unless I make myself amends for all the past loss I have sufl'ered of your most agreeable company. With regard to my situation, at present, I have regained my figure at the bar, my dignity in tlie Senate-house, and that friendship of the worthy, which always has been my ambition, and all in a greater degree* than I possessed before my banishment, and with less difficulty than I imagined. As to my private affairs, I meet with inexpressible opposition, and you know how they have been ruined, squandered, and plunder- ed. I stand not so much in need of your purse, which 1 It is no unusual thing in life, especially public life, for those who opposed a measure when the success of it was doubt- ful, to push it on extravagantly, when it is more than probable that it will be carried. Charles II. upon his return to England, could not imagine where the people were, who had kept him out so long. This was a very natural sentiment, and agreeable to what is several times expressed by our author upon the like occasion. TO ATTICUS. 229 Which 1 look upon to be the same as my own, as your counsels, in order to repair and settle the wrecks of my fortune. At present, though I suppose you have been informed of all, either by letters from your friends, or by common re- ports and messengers, yet I will give you a short account of what I imagine you are most desirous to know, under my ow^n hand. I left Durazzo on the 4th of August, being the day on which the decree for my return was published. On the 5th I came to Brundusium, where I met my TuUiola, who kept her birth-day with me, it being the same w ith the anniversary of the Brundusian Colony, and of the dedication of the temple of public welfare. The people had no sooner learnt this circumstance, than all Brundusium rang with shouts and congratulati- ons. While I was at Brundusium, on the 8th of the same month, I understood, by letters from my brother Quintus, that the decree for repeal- ing my banishment, had passed the Assembly of the Centuries, to the inexpressible satisfaction of all ranks and ages, and with an unexampled concourse from all Italy. Having received the highest civilities from all men of distinction at Brundusium, I set out from thence, and received, in my journey, the compliments of the deputies, who flocked from all quarters. When I drew near to Rome, there w^as not a person in that city, 230 CICERO'S EPISTLES city, of whatever rank or of any notoriety \ who did not come out to meet me, excepting those enemies who had gone so far to ruin me, tliat they were unable cither to dissemble, or to deny, their rancour. W hen I came to the Capcnian gate, the stairs of the temples were crowded w ith the lower ranks of people, who indicated their joy for my return by peals of applause ; nor did they leave off following me with acclamations, till I reached the capitol, and wonderful it was, to behold the crowds which filled the forum, and the capitol itself. Next day, which was the 5th of September, I delivered my oration of thanks to the senate in the house. For two days there had been a great scarcity of provisions at Rome, and the mob, by the instigation of Clodius, had run first to the theatre, and then to the senate- house, crying out that it was through me the scarcity had happened". The senators were then * The original is, Ut nemo ullius ordinis homo nomenclatori notus fuerit. The nomenclator was a very useful officer in Home. His usefulness consisted in his knowing by sight, and being able to name, all the principal men of the state, and for this purpose he attended the candidates for public offices. See Adams's Antiq. p. 85. - There is soraethinfij very unaccountable in all the relations we have of Clodius and our author. If we are to believe the latter, there never was a measure so completely to the satisfac- tion of all ranks of mankind, as his return to Rome was, and yet TO ATTICUS. 231 then deliberating upon this affair, and Pompey was called upon to teke the care of it by the voice, not only of the commons, but of the men of property. This was what he himself wanted, and the mob called out upon me, by name, to make the motion. I made it, and laid down my opinion with great clearness, while all the other consulars, excepting Messala and Afranius, were absent, upon pretence that they could not deli- ver their opinion at once with safety and with freedom. The senate, upon my motion, came to a resolution, that Pompey should be solicited to take that commission upon himself, and that a bill should be brought in for that purpose. While this resolution was reading, at every men- tion of my name, there was a shout of that insi- pid, fantastic, applause, which is now in vogue ; I then delivered a speech to the people, with the leave of all the magistrates, excepting one praitor and two tribunes of the commons. Next day there was a full senate, and all the consu- lars refused to Pompey nothing that he asked for. When he had obtained the fifteen deputies he demanded, he named me the first, and he de- clared, that in all his proceedings I should be his other self. The yet in less than thirty-six hours we find his capital enemy at the head of a party, which, without any visible, or at least reason- able provocation, puts him in danger of his life. 23ii CICEROS EPISTLES The consuls passed an act, wliich furnisheel Pompey for five years with complete authority respecting the supply of provisions all over the empire. jMcssius enacted another bill, which appointed him paymaster general of the fleet and army, and which gave him a greater command over the provinces than the governors have, to whom they are allotted. Our consular law ap- pears to be moderate, when compared to this in- tolerable one of Messius. Pompey says that the first was obtained by his own desire, but the lat- ter by the interposition of his friends. Tiiose of the consular order, and especially Favonius, are enraged. For my part, I am silent, and the ra- ther, because the pontiffs have not as yet given in their answer concerning my house. Should they be of opinion, that the consecration of it is not valid, I shall have a noble spot. The consuls, according to the resolution of the senate, will ei- ther make an estimate of the building that has been tlirown down, or they will demolish what is raised, build a new one at their own expence, and make an estimate of all my other effects^ Such J Cicero gives us no very advantageous idea of his firmness upon this occasion. It is extremely plain that he was so mucli disgusted with the conduct of the Roman patriots at this time, that, contrary to his private sentiments, he had left their party, and it was owing only to Pompey's moderation, that the power which Cicero had been so instrumental in giving him, was no* fetal to his country. It is certain that all the men of conse- quence TO ATTICUS. 233 Such is the state of my private aflairs, which, compared with my prosperity, is but indifferent; if with my adversity, happy. You know that I am quence or virtue thought it might prove so, and Cicero was of the same opinion himself. But our autlior's experience had taught him other things, than to rely any longer upon the me- rit of a showy conduct. He now attached himself to power j but, indeed, he had a great deal at stake, being no better thaa an illustrious beggar; and he was not sure whether he could b« restored to his possessions or not. Clodius, to bar him from ever recovering his house in town, had not only demolished it, but had procured the ground on which it stood to be conse- crated, by which it became sacrilege to make it revert to a pri- vate proprietor. But as some doubts arose concerning the va- lidity of this consecration, the cast* was referred to the pon- tiffs. The college of pontiffs in Rome, at this time, consisted of fifteen; and the exercise of their judgment in religious things was so extensive, that they entered upon many civil causes. They even had a coercive power of judgment, and could im- pose fines and punishments. But the reader is not to imagine, that this pontifical college, as to its institution, had any thing in common with the modern religious policy that prevails in Italy, and in Roman Catholic countries. It is true, the juris- diction of civil and religious matters was separate,- but the per- sons who exercised those jurisdictions were the same 5 and the Romans had no notion that there was any peculiarity of charac- ter required to constitute a pontiff. They thought that a person who filled the civil oflaces of his country with the greatest abi- lities, was the best fitted to discharge the religious ones. This maxim is the very reverse of the policy that has been since prac- tised (and in no country more than England,) where the quali- fications of a priest have often been his passport to the highest dignities in the state. 234. CICERO'S EPISTLES am extremely uneasy respecting some domestic concerns; and I have some family vexations, which I cannot trust to writing. I have a due regard and love for my brother Quintus, as being a most worthy, virtuous, and honest man. I ex- pect and entreat that you will hasten to this place, in order that you may furnish me with your ad- vice. I am now laying down a new plan of life; some persons ^ who befriended me in my exile, now that I am returned, begin secretly to hate, and openly to envy, me. 1 am extremely desi- rous to see you. EPISTLE 11. JLf 1 write to you more seldom than your other correspondents do, I beg that you will not attri- bute it to my remissness, or even to my hurry of business, which, though great, shall never inter- rupt the course of our affection and my duty. For now that I am come to Rome, I am more certain of a safe conveyance of my letters to you ^ The truth is, it was not so much from personal regard that the wisest men of Rome befriended Cicero, as from a convic- tion that it was necessary to make his return a kind of a trial of strength, between the faction of Clodius and that of the se- nate} for both of them were equally factious at tliis tim« against the constitution of Rome. TO ATTICUS. 235 you. This, therefore, is my second letter from this place. In my former, I have acquainted you with the manner of my return, with my situation, and with all things as they stood ; which, as I told you, " if compared with my prosperity, are but " indifferent; if with my adversity, happy." After that letter was dispatched, a terrible dis- pute ensued concerning my house. I spoke be- fore the pontiffs on the last of September. My pleading was a high-finished piece. For if ever I distinguished myself in speaking, if ever I made a figure on other occasions, give me leave to say, that my grief, and the interest I had at stake, gave my words, at that time, a peculiar energ had a good share of quick- ness, modesty, and decency. I thought he had been gone from Rome, because I had not seen him for a long time ; but I understood from Gavius of f irmum, that the city was his constant resi- dence. Why, you will tell me, should you be startled with so trifling an incident ? The truth is, he brought me a great deal of confidential intelligence concerning the Firmian Brothers. I know not what cause has alienated him, if in- deed any such cause exisits. I will, as you advise me, conduct myself in public matters, with a proper circumspection, and steer the middle course. But this requires more abilities than I possess. I must, as usual, be assisted by you. I wish you would sound Fabius, if you have any access to him, and sift that messmate of yours, and send me daily intel- ligence of that and all other matters. Write to me, though all you have to say is, that you have nothing to write. I wish you well. EPISTLE EPISTLE IX. A REPORT prevails atPuzzoli, that Ptolemy^ has regained his throne. Inform me, if you have any certainty of this. I am here feasted ; you think, I suppose, upon the delicacies of Puzzoli^ and the lake of Lucrinus, No ; upon the library of Faustus. I have even my sensual^ as well as intellectual, entertainments. But, indeed, books alone give me support and refreshment, so insi- pid and tastless are all other amusements and pleasures become to me, through the wretched situation of my country ; and I had rather fill the little bench in your library, under the bust of Aristotle, than fill the highest seat of govern- ment ^ ; nay, I had rather take a turn at your house, * Ptolemy ^uletes was the father of the famous Cleopatra. His story is well known from our author's other Epistles, and that after being driven from his throne, he was restored by Gabinius, at the head of a Roman army, in express contradic- tion to the Sibylline verses, whilst our author, in vain endea- voured to procure that commission for his friend Lentulus. ^ Tliis was a sea-town near Naples and the Lucrine Lake, which lay in its neighbourhood, and is now a nasty marsh, fa- mous for shell-fish, especially oysters. ^ Orig. Sella Curulis* This was a kind of elbow-chair, of a particular form, ornamented with ivory, and appropriated to the use of the consuls, proetors, and the great iEdiles, wh(> for that reason were called Curule Magistrates. . S2 \ S260 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. £61 house, and in your company, than walk with the man, whom, I foresee, I shall be obliged to fol- low'. But let fortune, or, if there is a provi- dence, let providence, look to that walk. I beg you will look after, as often as you can, the building of my gallery, my stove, and every thing that has been designed by Cyrus, and urge Philotimus to forward the workmen, that I may not be quite behind hand with you in matters, that are to your own taste. Pompey came to his house at Cuma? yesterday, being the 21st of April, and immediately sent one to present me with his compliments. Having finished my let- ter this morning, I am now setting out to pay him a visit. EPISTLE X. 1 SHOULD be glad to know if there is any ground for a report we have here, that the tri- bunes, by pretending to observe the auspices, prevent the enrolment of the people, and what the behaviour and sentiments of the people are, with 1 This seems to be the sense of Cicero. But there is, in the original an allusion of no great imporlance with regard to a visit, wiiich Cicero intended to pay to Pompey the persoa here spoken of. I With regard to the censorship^? I have been here for some time with Pompey. We have conversed much about public affairs. If we may believe him (for I cannot speak of him with- out this restriction) he was dissatisfied with him- self; he looked with contempt on the government of Syria, with indifference on that of Spain. — If we may believe him, (for still I think that is the characteristic which we must affix to him, as Phocylides did a peculiar mark to his own works) he is very much obliged to you for arranging the statues in his amphitheatre. With regard to me, he seemed, indeed, to pour out his soul in tenderness and confidence. He even came to Cumse from his own house to see me. He ap- peared * The censorial authority, if virtuously exercised in the reformation of manners, and the degradation of senators, no- blemen, and knights, who were unworthy of their stations, might have still saved the constitution of Rome. But yet I cannot help being of opinion that their power, which was dis- cretionary, and could be circumscribed only by their own vir- tue and judgment, was very liable to abuse in that degenerated state of the republic, when our author wrote. It was, per- haps, not without very plausible reasons, that the tribunes of Cesar's faction, repressed their authority, which if properly exercised, might have been an unsurmountable bar to his am- bition. The enrolment here spoken of ought, by the laws of Rome, to have been performed every five years, and was a very useful piece of policy. For the names, ages, number of chil- dren, and the value of the estates of all citizens being enrolled, the government always had the means of making a pretty exac4; estimate of the strength of the state. 262 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. Q63 peared not a little displeased at Messala's* stan- ding for the consulship. I wish you would in- form me what you know concerning that fact I am obliged to you for the assurance that you will recommend the embellishment of my actions to Lucceius, and that you frequendy look after my builders. My brother Quintus writes me word, that he has his dear Cicero along with him ; he will see you about the 7 th of May. I left Cumae yesterday, being the 27th of April ; I lodged all night at Naples with Laetus, and I write this early on the 20th in the morn- ing, on my journey to my house at Pompeia. EPISTLE XI. 1 WAS delighted with your letters, which I re- ceived the last day of last month. Pray write me the remainder of that story, for I am impati- ent to know it. There is another matter which I beg you to examine ; you may do it by means of Demetrius'. Pompey told me, that he had made 1 Pompey opposed him because be befriended Scaurus, Pompey's antagonist. 2 This was the famous slave and freedman of Pompey, who had amassed so much money in the war against Mi- thridates, that after building one of the most magnificent am- phitheatres in Rome, and laying out gardens at an immense cxpence, he died worth about 500,0001. of our money. y^ i made an appointment with Crassus, at his seat at Alba, the 28th of this month, from whence they were to set out together for Rome to settle accounts with the farmers of the revenue. I asked him, whether they would engage in that business, while the gladiators were exhibiting. He replied, that it would be finished before that exhibition commenced. If you know, either at present, or when Pompey comes to Rome, what there is in this matter, . I beg that you will in- form me. I am here devouring books with Di- onysius who sends his compliments to you and all your friends, and whom I regard as a ve- ry extraordinary man. Nothing gives pleasure equal to extensive knowledge. As, therefore, I am a person who thirsts for information, write me all that passed upon the first and second days of the month; how the censors behaved, what is become of the solicitation of Appius, of his brother Clodius, and of Apuleius the effeminate idol of the populace'. In short, write me what you are yourself employed in. For to say the truth, I am not so much pleased with the ac- counts of fresh occurrences as with your letters. I have carried nobody with me but Dionysius, and yet, even though you are not liere, I am not afraid that I shall want materials for con- versation. I am entertained with an agreeable employ- 1 He was a seditious tribune under Marius. 264 CICERO S EPISTLES employment. Pray give my book to Luceeius. I send you the treatise of Demetrius Magnes \ that you may have an immediate opportunity of returning me an answer by the bearer. EPISTLE XIL E GNATius^is at Rome, but I had a very serious discourse with him at Antium concerning the affair of Halimetus. He gave me fresh assurances that he would act in good earnest with Aquileius. If you please 'therefore, you will give Egnatius a meeting. I hardly think that I can succeed for Macro ; for there is a sale at Larinum, which will last for two days. I hope you will excuse my failure, though I perceive you have a great regard for Macro ; but as you love me, I abso- lutely insist that you and Pilia sup with me the 2d of next month. I am thinking of supping on the 1st in the gardens of my son-in-law Cras- sipes, whom I will visit, though he lies out of my road, * The subject of this book, was a treatise concerning una- nimity amongst fellow citizens (tst^i IfMOfoix^ ,) and some com- mentators have thought that it was written by the freed man of Pompey. ^ He was a Roman knight, and a great friend to our au- thor. TO ATTICUS. a65 road, because I intend to elude the resolution of the senate ^ After supper I will go to my house in the town, that I may be early next morn- ing with Milo ; I will see you there, and re- mind you of my invitation. All here send their compliments to you. EPISTLE XIIL I PERCEIVE that you know of my arrival at Tusculanum, the 15th of November, where Dio- nysius favoured me with his company. I intend, or rather I am obliged, to be at Rome by the 14th of next month, when Milo's nuptials are to be celebrated'; not to mention that there is some expectation that the popular assemblies will, at that time, be held I I am not sorry that I was absent from the senate-house, as I hear the de- bates 1 Orig. Facio fraudem S. C. If a Senator was in Rome, and did not attend the service of the house the first day of the month, he was fined by a standing order of the house j but Cicero eluded this fine by being in the neighbourhood, though not within tlie walls of Rome. 2 He married the dictator Sylla's daughter. 3 Those elections were generally held in the month of July J but the meeting was adjourned this year to the end of November. 266 CICERO^ EPISTLES bates were violent and tumultuous \* for I must either have spoken against my sentiments, or h^ve failed in my duty. But I beg you will write, as exactly as possible, an account of all those matters, and of the present state of the com- monwealth, and with what spirit the consuls bear this commotion. I feel an anxious desire^ to hear every thing ; and, to tell you the truth, every^ thing alarms me. 1 understand, that after our countryman Cras- sus ^ assumed the imperial robe, he left Rome with * One of the most terrible effects of the triumvirate between Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey, was the two latter obtaining, by their interest, the prolongation of Caesar's government of Gaul for five years 3 while Pompey, by Caesar's interest, ob- tained the government of Spain, and Crassus that of Syria. * Grig. O^i'jrtivos. I am keenly thirsty to hear. 5 Crassus was both ambitious and avaricious j and to gratify the latter passion, he had obtained the government of Syria, that he might make war against the Parthians, by which he ex- pected immense treasures. As nothing makes a man more odious, as well as contemptible, tlian avarice does, there was I kind of a conspiracy amongst all ranks of men against this expedition ; and the auspices which were taken, according to custom, previous to his departure, being found unfavourable, the tribune Attius, after pronouncing a form of imprecation against him, if he departed, which was thought by the people to carry along with it infallible damnation, would even have •topped him by force, had not Crassus escaj^ in the tumult out of Rome. We need not, therefore, have recourse to any supernatural interpositioUj^ that enforced tbis imprecation to the TO ATTICUS- S67 with less pomp than Lucius Paulus, though his equal in age and dignity. He is, indeed, a base man. I have bestowed great pains upon my treatise, concerning an orator, having often re- vised and carefully corrected it You are at li- berty to copy it out. I again entreat you to be very distinct in informing me of the present state of public aifairs, that I may not come to Rome quite a stranger. EPISTLE XIV. Our friend Vestorius writes me word that you did not leave Rome before the 10th of May, which was later than you intended, on account of your indisposition. It will give me sincere pleasure to hear that you are recovered. In the meanwhile, I beg that you will send a written order to your domestics, that I may have admit- tance to your library, in the same manner, as if you w^ere present. I have occasion for several books, but more particularly for those of Var- ro \ For there are some passages in his books, which the destruction of Crassus and his army ; because, in fact, it carried along witli it a real and a physical cause, by the effects it produced upon the spirits, both of his men and officers. 1 He was at this time lieutenant to Caesar in his govern- ment of Gaul. / 26S CICERO'S EPISTLES which I shall make use of in the treatises I am now composing, and which I am in hopes will give you pleasure. If you have any news concerning my brother Quintus, or of Caesar, or of the elections; or if any new changes are likely to take place in the com- monwealth (for I know how quick and sagacious you are in tracing these matters ^ pr2iy> l^t me have them in writing. Though you have no- thing of importance to write, yet write me some- what, for I never thought a letter of yours, cither unseasonable or uninteresting. Above all things, I beg that you M^ill visit me, the first opportunity, after you have settled agreeably to your wishes, your afiairs, and your journey. Present my compliments to Dionysius. Fare- wel. EPISTLE 1 The original is, So/py enim tu hcpc fcstine odorari, lite- rally, you are used to smell out these things with swiftness. Some commentators propose to read festive instead of fes tine, as more elegant and appropriate. The proposed emendation, however, is frigid and impertinent ; and the propriety of the common reading will appear, when it is observed that the lan- guage is borrowed from a dog that is quick in smelling and pursuing the game. The same sagacity is ascribed by Miner- va to Ulysses Kvyos Aaxai»jj Ivs rts tv^ivos ^xa-iS' TO ATTICUS. 269 X EPISTLE XV. 1 AM glad to hear of the good fortune of Euty- chides, who, to his own name, has that of Titus Caecilius now added, in the same manner as Dionysius takes the name of Marcus from me, and that of Pomponius from you. It will give me sensible pleasure, if Eutychides knew that he is obliged for his liberty to your kindness for me, that I was no stranger to the sympathy he shewed in my trouble, and that I still have a proper sense of it. I suppose you are under the necessity of going to Asia, for you never, with- out the most urgent occasion, would so long banish yourself from all that is dear to you in friendship and in life. But a judgment may be formed of your tenderness and affection for your friends, by the quickness of your return. Yet I am apprehensive that the Rhetorician Clodius^ may, by the charms of his conversati- on induce you to stay, together with Pituanius', who is, I hear, a very learned man, and though late in life, is now studying the Greek learning. But if you would be deemed a man of your word * He was a famous professor of rhetoric, a native of Sicily, and taught both in Latin and Greek. ^ He seems to have been of a noble family in Rome. 270 CICEIIOS EPISTLES word, return to us at the time you have appoint- ed. \\'hen these gentlemen shall meet with a safe passage to Rome, you may have their com- pany there. You write, that you long to have a letter from me ; I have sent vou one which contains a ^reat number of particulars, all of them written in the form of a journal, but I conjecture you did not stay long enough in Epirus to receive it ; for the manner in which I write my letters, at least those I address to you, is generally such, that I dare not trust them with any bearer, but one who I am sure a\ ill put them into your own hand. Now as to the affairs of Rome. On the 9th of July, Sufenas* and Cato were acquitted and Procilius was condemned. From this we may learn, that our very upright judges^ pay no regard to bribery and violence, nor to the inter- val between the expiration and the election of magistrates, and the treasonable violations of the whole system of government. We surely ought not to sanction the murder of a man within his own house ; yet this question was not carried without * Those three persons had been tribunes of the people two years before, and were now impeached for undue practices to favour the election of Pompey and Crassus, two of them were acquitted, but the third, Procilius, having been guilty of an assassination was cast. - Orig. r^icxfitioTtxyirxsy thrice areopagites, i. e. very upright judges, ironiadly for very corrupt judges. — E. TO ATTICUS. 271 without a division; for, out of fifty judges, twenty- two were for acquitting the criminal It must be owned, that Publius Clodius, who ap- peared for the prosecution, made in the conclu- sion of his speech a strong impression upon the minds of the judges. Hortensius spoke in his usual manner. As for me, I did not open my lips ; for my little girl, who is now unwcl, wa» afraid of my throwing out somewhat to exas- perate Clodius. When these trials were over, the inhabitants of Reate ^ carried me to their country, which is another Tempe for beauty, to plead their cause against those of Interamni^ before a consul and ten commissaries. The case was, that Interamni tad cut a passage through a mountain to widen the discharge which Marcus Curius had given to the lake Velinus into the Nar, by which the plain of Rosia^ is drained of its humidity, I lived 1 This was the capital of the Sabines. It is at present called Rieti, and lies in the dukedom of Spoleto. 2 At present Terani or Terni, and was situated upoii a kind of Island at the conflux of a cut from the lake Velinus and the Nar. Cicero sufficiently explains the nature of this cause. But it is proper to observe, that this cut was made about MQ years before Christ, by Marcus Curius Dentatus, after he had conquered the Sabines. 3 This country still keeps its name Rosia, or the Dew>', from the perpetual dews that fell upon it from the exhalations of the neighbouring lakes and rivers. £72 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 273 lived some time with Accius^ who conveyed me from his own house to the Seven Fountains". On the yth of June, I returned to Rome to attend the aft'air of Fonteius. I then went to the the- atre, where I was received with great and unin- terrupted applause. But that, you say, is matter of indifference, and foreign in me to mention. I next saw Antiphon' play. He had been set at liberty before he came upon the stage, and in a T\ord, he carried away the prize of acting, and yet, to speak it among ourselves, he appeared to me to possess neither voice nor energy, and is indeed a sluggish actor, lie, however, excel- led Astyanax in the Andromache, but in his other characters he is without his equal. You will perhaps ask mc concerning Arhuscula*, and I answer that she gave me great satisfaction. The diversions, were magnificent and highly ap- plauded. ' He was a Roman «;enator. * This was one of the oldest villages in all Italy, and lay in the country of the Reaimi near the lake Velinus. 3 Most of the Ronwn actors were originally slaves, a condi- tion which cannot be said to be despicable, because it was from them that Rome learned all her arts and politene^. But when an actor excelled in his profession, his master generally made him free, in compliment to the people, who often de- manded their freedom. After this all the profits of their act- \n^ were his own pro|>erty, and some of them died immensely rich, after being treated on a footing with the greatest noble- men of Rome. '* A famous comedian and courtezan. plauded. The hunting is put off to another time. Suffer me now to conduct you to the field of election. This glows with the pursuits of am- bition. Of this I give the following proof. The interest for the use of money rose on the 15th of July from four to eight per cent, extraordina- ry ^ That perhaps you are not sorry to learn, though, as a man and as a citizen, it ought to give you concern. The whole interest of Caesar supports Memmius^ and they have joined Do- mitius' with him, in standing for the consulship ; but upon what terms I dare not commit to wri- ting. Pompey roars, complains and declares for Scaurus*, but it is questionable, whether his at- tachment 1 Orig. Fcenusex triente Idih. Quint, factum er at hessibis- It would require a whole dissertation to explain this expression. It is sufficient to say, that the common interest amongst the Romans was 12 per cent, in a year, one per cent, being paid on the 13th or 15th of every month. This was called Unci- arumfanus; the third part of this was four, which was called the triens, and two thirds of it, which was eight, was called the lesses usurcB. The interest Cicero speaks of here is therefore an additional interest, exclusive of the 12 per cent, which was the common interest. 2 He had been formerly the enemy of Caesar. 3 This was Domitius Calvinus. 4 This Scaurus was the brother of .Emilia, Pompey's second wife, and had married Mutia, who had children by Pompey. Vol. L T 274 aCEROS EPrSTLES TO ATTICUS. 275 tachment h sincere or affected. None of th^ candidates is distinguished by superior excel- lence ; for money brings ihein all to a leveL Messala droops, not lliat he is without either sjwrit or friends ; but be is opposed by the coa- lition of th€ consuls and Pompey. I am of opi- nion that the election for tlie consuls will be ad- journed ^ The candidates for the tribunesUip have de- creed to be determined by Cato, as to their pre- tences, each of tliem having deposited in his hands five hundred thousand sertcces to be for- feited by the person whom Cato sIkaU find to be in the wrong, and to be divided amongst the other candidates. I wrote the above account, the day before the elections were supposed to be held ; but I wrote to you also on the S28th of July, and if the election shall be held, I will send you a full detail of it by the same messenger, if he is not alrealy set out If tliey arc fair and open, as it is thought they will be, Cato will carry with him more weight thau all our courts of justice. I pleaded for INIessius upon his return from his legateship, which Appius had given him un- der Caesar ; Servilius summoned him to appear. He had in his favour the Pomptinian, the Veli- nian, and the Ma^cian tribes. The contest is fierce- ^ This happened accordingly. if) •fierce. We have however, been as successful as might be expected. I next undertake the de- fence of Drusus, and then of Scaurus \ I shall have the honour of pleading before an illustri- ous bench, and perhaps before the consuls elect; and if Scaur us is not one of them, it will go very hard with him in his trial. I imagine, by letters from my brother Quintus, that he is now in Bri- tain I 1 am extremely uneasy till I hear from him. There is one thing, at least, I have gain- ed ; from clear and repeated intimations I learn that I am upon the most affectionate and amica- ble terms with Caesar. I beg that you will make my compliments to Dionysius, and earnestly en- treat him to come hither as soon as possible, to instruct my son Cicero, and even his father like- wise. EPISTLE XVI. A CANNOT send you a better proof that I am hurried with business, than this letter being writ- ten by my amanuensis. I do not accuse you of remissness in your correspondence; but several letters * Drusus was impeached of collusion with a person whom he had accused^ and Scaurus of oppressing the inhabitants of Sar- dinia. ^ He served under Caesar in his expeditions to Britain. T 2 276 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 277 letters I have received from you, served, by their date, only to inform me of the place of your residence. Sometimes, indeed, they intimated that you was in health; and I read two of them on that subject with great pleasure, which were dated from your house at Buthrotum, almost at the same time. It gave me great joy to under- stand, that your voyage had been favourable; but this interchange of letters was more agree- able from its quickness than its information. That which I received from your host Marcus Paccius, was indeed weighty and full of matter; I, therefore, now sit down to answer it. In the first place I convinced Paccius, both by words and deed, of the efficacy of your recommenda- tion with me; and, therefore, though I did not know him before, he is now one of my most in- timate friends. But to prpceed, if I possibly can do it in a proper place, I will introduce Varro into my di- alogues. But you know the nature of them. In the oratorial dialogues, which you extol so high- ly, it is impossible for any of the speakers to mention any orator, excepting those they were acquainted with, and had heard. I was sensible of this difficulty in my dialogue concerning a commonwealth, in which the speakers were Afri- canus, Philus, Lselius, and Manilius. To these I added the two youths, Quintus Tubero and Publius Rutilius; and the two sons-in-law of Laelius, \ Lselius, Scaevola, and Fannius. I was, there- fore, thinking (because, in all my compositions, I generally make use of a preface for every book, the method which Aristotle follows, in what he calls his popular works,) to address Varro, with- out being guilty of any impropriety. Of this method I understand you approved ; I only wish that I may finish what I have begun. You are sensible how great and how weighty an under- taking it is, and how much it requires, what I can least spare, I mean leisure. You wish that I had suffered Scaevola to re- main as a speaker, in those dialogues you so much commend; but I did not exclude him without good reason. In this I imitated the conduct of our divine Plato. When Socrates had arrived at Pyrseeus, Cephalus, a wealthy and facetious old man, is present, and partakes ^of all the conversation that first passes. But when he had spoken a reasonable time, he tells the company, that he intended to go to a sacrifice ; nor does he again return. By this, I suppose, Plato thought it would be out of character, had he detained a man of his advanced years, all the time that long conversation lasted. I pre- sume I had much greater reason for using the same precaution, with regard to Scaevola; you remember how aged and how infirm he was, and his high employments in the state, rendered it inot quite so decent for him to remain so many days 278 CICERO^ EPISTLES days at the country-scat of Crassus. We are, likewise, to consider, that the conversation of the first book, suits very well with the studies of Scaevola; the other books, you know, are filled with terms of art. I, therefore, thought that a man, so sprightly and aged as Scaevola was, could with no propriety sit during so long and so grave a conversation. I will take care of the affair you mention, concerning my daughter. For Aurelian's inti- mations, as you write, leave no farther room to doubt concerning that estate ; and I shall also, by that means, humour my TuUia. I do what services I can to Vestorius, because I know that they oblige you ; and I wish that he may know the same. But you know his temper; anxious as we are to please him, he is hardly satisfied. As to what you mention concerning Cato, you know that he has been acquitted from the charge of breaking the Junian Licinian law; and 1 pro- nounce, that he •will be the same with regard to the Fusian law; which will give no less satisfac- tion to his accusers, than to his defenders. He is, however, again come into favour with Milo and myself Lucretius has accused Drusus, and the jury v^ere chosen \ and challenged on the 3d of July. I can ^ In Rome, the trials were before a jury, who gave their verdict, but did not fix the punishment, which was left to the praetor. TO ATTICUS, S79 i can give ymi no good hopes concerning Proci- iius; you know lu)W capricious and uncertain ar« his judges. Hirrus stands w^U with Do^iiUus. Tlie decree oi qukunqu^ post hoc, which was mad^ by the consuls concerning the provinces, is by no means to my liking; because I understand that Caesar is very much displeased with the de- claration which Memmius made. Our friend Messala, with his competitor Do- •mitius, has been so liberal towards tiie people, that nothing can stand fairer, than they both do, for being consuls. But the senate has decree^ Xliat a tacit process ' should be drawn up against jthem, before tlie time of 'election. This conduct has greatly alarmed tlie candidates; for each ^ 4bem had a copy of the resolution. But some^ (tlie judges, amongst them Opimius Antius, have called in the tribunes of the commons, to jiro- test against tlieir being tried, without the com- mand of the people; and thus the aneasure is •dropped. The senate came to a resolution for adjourning the .time of elections, until the biU ^ for prsetor or the lord- chief-justice ; and what is still more re- markable in this analogy, tlie parties might challenge any of the jurors. A Roman jury, however, was determmed by the -majority of those who were empaimelled. 1 Orig. Judicium taciturn. So called from its not taking ef- feet acrainst the candidates till after nomination) and if, during the time they stood, they had been guilty of any undue prac- ;t>ces, the process then went on. 280 CICERO'S EPISTLES for the tacit process should pass. But when the day for bringing in the bill came, the tribune Terentius imposed his negative upon it; upon this the consuls, who were but lukewarm in the affair, have carried the whole matter before the senate. In this they acted indiscreetly ^ and I could not help telling them so. What, say you, will you never be quiet? Forgive me, if, on the present occasion, I am unable to be at rest Sure nothing was ever so ridiculous. The senate had come to a resolution, that the election should not be held before the bill passed ; and if any negative was put upon it, that the matter, from the very beginning, should come before them afresh. The matter was carried on with cool- ness ; they who managed it had no objection to the negative. The thing was brought round again to the senate; and they concluded, that to proceed forthwith to the election of the consuls, will facilitate the passing of the bill. Scaurus, who some days ago was acquitted, in consequence of a very eloquent speech which I delivered in his defence, has bestowed favours on several tribes of the people at his own house, upon Scaevola declaring for the auspices, and ac- tually observing them every day to the last of September, when I had written thus far. But not- ^ Hie Aldera dices. The people of Abdera were remark- able for their stupidity. Hence the proverb. To act like the Abderitae, means to act with extreme folly. — E. TO ATTICUS. i2^l « notwithstanding his profusion, which was very great, yet his success fell short of those who had got the start of him in their applications. 1 could wish to see your face while you are read- ing this, for the longer such doings last, the bet- ter for you : but the senate is to meet this first day of October (for the day begins now to break,) and nobody will there tell their minds freely, besides Antius ' and Favonius, for Cato is indisposed. For my part, I will answer for myself; but I promise nothing absolutely. I suppose you want to know more concerning these trials : both Drusus and Scaurus are ac- quitted ^ It is thought that three candidates will be impeached; Domitius by Meminius^ Messala by Quintus Pompeius Rufus *, and Scau- rus by Triarius^ or by Lucius Caesar ^ You ask me what I can say in their defence ? May I die if I know ; at least in all the three books con- cerning eloquence, with which you are so much charmed. 1 He was surnamed Restio j and being somewhat of Cato*s severe disposition, he had, while praetor the year before, pro- posed a sumptuary law, which did not pass. 2 Drusus Scaurus nonfecisse videntur. Alluding to the mo- dest manner in which the Roman jurors gave their verdict. 3 He was tribune of the commons, and afterwards brought impeachments against Gabinius and Rabirius. * He was designed tribune. ^ He had been questor some years before. ^ His father had been consul in the year of Rome, 69O. 282 CICERO'S EPISPLES charmed, I do not find one topic that concerns them. In order to form a just opinion of things, you must have a complete representation of them ^ Well, then, you astk me how did I behave ? I answer, vv^ith firmness and freedom. And how, say you, did our great man behave ? He behaved with a politeness suited to my dignity, and there- fore gave me satisfaction ^ But, say you, how came Gabinius then to be acquitted? By down- right, barefaced, mummery; by the wonderful stupidity of the accusers, I mean Lucius Lentu- lus, the son of Lucius ^ who was loudly accused by the public of having betrayed the cause he undertook, by the great struggle made by Pom- pey, and by tlie prostitution of the judges. Ye^ after all, out of seventy judges, thirty- two gave their voices against him. But lie is far frooa being absolved, for he is soon to be tried upon other impeachments. You will again ask me, how I bear all this ? Extremely well, indeed ; I never in my life was so * Nunc ut opimonem habeas rerum, ferendum est. This is certainly corrupted. The critics have proposed various enaen^' dationsj but it seems not very e^y, and not very material^ to ascertain the true reading.— -E. * Cicero had prosecuted Gabinius with great inveteracy, for the part he took in driving him to exile, ^ He had an hereditary enmity against Gabinius, who had carried the consulship against his father^ who hated Pompey. TO ATTICUS. £83 so w^ell pleased with myself. We have sow lost, my friend, not only the spirit and vigour, but even the complexion and farm of old Rome. Our constitution has no allurements, it has no charms for me. What ! say jon, does that give you pleasure? How can it do otherwise, when I reflect what a glorious figure this state made but a few yeais ago under my government? I can feel no pain when I think how ungratefully I have been repaid. They, who took it araisB that I had but some degree of power, have now the mortification to see power itsdf monopolized by one man. This is but one circumstance ©f many, that gives me consolation. Yet still I abandon nat my post of honour, and I follow the bent which nature has given my genius, I mean, my favourite books and oc- cupations. I soften the toils of the bar, by the embellishments of eloquence. I am charmed with my house, I am charmed with my rural re^- tirement: I reflect, not upon the height, from which I am fallen, but the station from whence 1 rose. Give me but the company of my bro- ther, and of you my friend ; let ambition sink or swim for me. With you I can philosophize. There my soul delighteth to dwell, insensible to all the pride of heart that it formerly contained. Yes! my private and domestic concerns now give me joy. You will admire my wonderful tranquillity, but the continuance of it depends, indeed 284 CICERO'S EPISTLES indeed in a great measure, upon your return : for none alive has feelings, as you have, so con- genial with my own. But I proceed to other things. The tide of government verges towards an interregnum ; some people suspect, and a great many talk of, a dictatorship ; and this gave no small assistance to Gabinius with his timorous judges. The con- sular candidates are all impeached for corrupt practices ; Gabinius is amongst the number ; for though Torquatus opposed him to no purpose, Publius Sylla impeached him, not doubting that he would keep out of the way. But all of them will be acquitted, and henceforth no man will be condemned, who is not a downright mur- derer. Yet it is said the public is too severe in this respect, and this gives encouragement to in- formers. Marcus Fulvius Nobilior is condem- ned, but many others of your fine gentlemen do not even make their appearance. I have to notice one incident more of a singu- lar nature ; about an hour after Gabinius was acquitted, some other judges oft'ended at his acquittal, condemned under the Papian law^ Antiochus Gabinius, a freedqmn and officer of Gabinius, a pupil of one Sopolis a painter ; upon this the condemned person immediately cried out, ''1 ^ This law related to the denisons of Rome, and regulated the privileges of foreigners there. TO ATTICUS. 285 *' I was indeed well aware, that Mars is an asso- ciate of Venus \" Pontinius ' has fixed upon the 2d of Novem- ber for celebrating his triumph. He is opposed by the prsetors, Cato and Servilius, and by Quintus Mucins, the tribune of the people. For they pretend that the bill for his triumph is not yet passed, and indeed it must be allowed, that it passed in a manner very informal. The consul Appius, however, will be on the side of Pontinius ; though Cato av^rs that, while he is alive Pontinius shall not obtain his triumph. But this threatening, like many others of the same kind made by him, 1 believe, will not be effected. Appius thinks of going to Cilicia upon his own expence, having obtained no legal ap- pointments as a governor. ,, . Having 1 Ori^. H a' Oil "A^f^s ocfjLx Ux^irt. I know thee Mars, that thou art always with Venus, The commentators acknowledge, that they do not perceive the aptitude of this quotation, which is taken from some Greek poet now lost. But, on this occa- sion, tlieir ingenuousness is more to be admired than their in- genuity. The pertinence of the cited verse consists in a pun, which, it must be confessed, is far more happy than many found in the writings of Cicero. The officer of Gabinius was con- denmed by the lex papia. To this law he wished to attach the idea of cruelty and murder 5 and, therefore, cites the verse ia question— /^woi^ Ma/ Mars, i.e. war, or slaughter, is con- nected with Papias, the author of the law, though the poet meant the Paphian goddess. — E. 2 He* had been praetor under Cicero's consulship, and had subdued the Allobroges. . • 2S6 CICERO'S EPISTLES Having thus answered the letter you sent me by Paccius, I am to inform you farther, tliat my brother's letters give me high assurances of Cge^ >sai^s friendship, and his information is confirm- ed by very affectionate letters from Caesar him- self. We are impatient for the event of the Bri- tannic expedition. All we know for certain is, Aat the island is fortified with amazing rocks ; tiiat there is not a grain of silver in tlie whole island, nor the least hope of plunder but from the slaves they may capture ; and I do not sup- pose that you may expect, from amongst them, any who are proficients in literature or in music. Paulus^ has almost finished the roof of his colonade * in the middle of the forum ; but the pillars are the same. He is, however, building a new one most wonderfully magnificent. In short, nothing can be more pleasing, nothing more showy to the people than the monument is. We therefore the friends of Caesar, I mean (tliough you should burst with envy) myself and Oppius, have expended sixty millions of ser- teces upon that monument, of which you are so very fond, that we might widen its area, and extend it as far as the portico of the Temple of Liberty. We could not engage with the private proprietors for less. But we shall make it a most * This was ^milius Paulut. * This was a building of the nature of our Royal Exchange, and appropriated to pretty much the same uses. TO ATTICUS. 287 1 li- most stupendous work. For w^e are about to raise in the Campus Martins marble colonades to cover the tribes when they assemble, and they are to be enclosed w ithin a magnificent gallery ; the contents of the whole area will occupy a mile. But this is not all. For to this w^ork is to be added a public hall. What benefit, you will sav, can this edifice confer on me ? The state of things gives me none to hope. I will add no more of public matters, for I suppose you have no curiosity as to the Lustrum, or the trials which are carrying on by the Coctian law\ Were I now to reproach you, it is no more than what you deserve. For you wrote in the letter, which I received from the hands of Caius Decimus, and which w^as dated from Burthro- turn that you believed you was set out for Asia. For my part I did not think the difference, whe- ther you did your business by agents or in per- son, w^as considerable enough, for your being so often and so long absent But had not your design been fixed, I could have wished to have treated with yourself; surely 1 might have had some success. But now I will check the reproa- ches I intended you. I wish to heaven that this may hasten your return. I write you the more seldom, because I am not sure where you are, or where you are to be. I have entrus- ted ^ It is uncertain what this law was. 283 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. £89 ted this person, whom I know nothing about, with this letter, because he said he was to see you. I beg that you will specify to me tlie time when you set out for Asia, and when I may expect you, and tell me what you have done concerning Eutychides. EPISTLE XVII. Jtxow welcome were your letters, how delight- ful your arrival! How punctual to your promise, how blameless in your friendship ! May success attend your pleasant voyage ! Greatly indeed did I fear its issue, as well remembering the hard- ships you encountered when, leaving us, you pas- sed into Asia \ But if I mistake not, we shall see you sooner than you mention in your letter. You supposed, I believe, that your ladies were by this time in Apulia. But as they are not, you can have no business to detain you there. Some days you must allow to our friend Vestorius, and that time you will employ in recovering your taste, for, what I may call, the Attic pu- rity ^ Orig. ^i^^iis, coverings made of the skin of wild beast» —shaggy — frightful } here therefore they mean the horrible dan*' gers of the sea.— •£. \i rity of Latin. Fly to me, my friend, come, be- hold the charms of my ideal republic, and com- pare it with what now actually passes in Rome. If I mistake not, I informed you that money was publicly distributes, tribe by tribe, and in the same place, before the time of election, by which means Gabinius was acquitted, and he bids fair to live yet in cfedit. You ask me, but I know not what to write, concerning Messala. Never did I see two candidates, so well match- ed. You know Messala's interest, and Triarius has impeached Scaurus. Let me tell you, the public feel no great predilection for him; and yet the people cherish favourable remembrance of his ^dileship ^ and the country tribes" are not a little swayed by his father's memory. The difference in interest between the two other Ple- beian candidates is, that Domitius will be strong in friends, but will not be excessively popular by his public exhibitions : the ti^oops of Cassar will support the interest of INIemmius, and, through the ^ He had spent an immense estate in the public exhibitions during his iEdileship, and if we may believe Pliny, the ruins or remains of his shows were valued at above 500,0001. 2 These were the most creditable tribe that composed the assemblies of the people, the town tribes being composed of a set of vermin. The memory of Marius was dear to the coun- try tribes, and the father of this Scaurus was next to Marius the greatest general of that party. Vol. I. U S90 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 291 the influence of Pompey, he will have the Cisal- pine Gauls \ If all this influence is not suffici- ent for his purpose, it is thought that means will be found to put off the election till the nearer approach of Caesar, especially as Cato is now acquitted from the charge of having done the same thing before *. On the 24th of October, I received letters from my brother, and from Caesar, dated the 526th of September, upon finishing their campaign in Britain, ^at the close of which they received hostages, but no plunder, though a contribution was imposed^ and when their letters were dated they v/ere re-embarking their troops. Quintus Pilius* was by that time set out for Caesar. If you ^ Pompeius Strabo, the father of the great Pompey, who was now for Memmius, had obtained to the people of this province the privileges of Romans. • Piz, When Domitius ^nobarbus stood, and lost it by the means ofPbmpey and Crassus, who prevailed with Cato to put off the election of consuls, and thereby gained time to qualify themselves legally. ^ Orig. Cmfecta Britannia, ohsidilus acceptis, nulla prceda, imperaia tamen pecunia. Monsieur Mongault translates this passage. Les Barhares ont eti vainnis, ils out donne des otages et paye les sommes quon leur a impos^es. I know not whether the reader will think the sense in which I translate them to suit better with Cicero's words, and Caesar's account of this matter. * He probably was brother to Pilia, the wife of Atticus, axui was this year questor. V you love me, my friend, if you love your relati- ons, if you think that I am to be believed, if you even have common sense, if you wish for the enjoyment of the good things of this life, let me persuade you to come hither, and to remain jiear me. I cannot enjoy myself without you. I am uneasy, in the absence of even Dionysius, what then must I be in yours ? My boy joins with me in our most earnest entreaties, that yott will return as soon as your affairs will permit. The last letters I had from you were dated from Ephesus the 9tb of August EPISTLE XVIII. You will, I suppose, infer that I have forgotten my habits and engagement. Being uncertain, in respect to the rout you would take, and the pla- ces in which you would make any stay, I neither trusted my letters to Epirus, to Athens, to Asia, or to any person, but to the messenger who was to deliver them into your hands. For my letters are not of that indifferent nature, as not to oc- casion me disappointment were they to fall into other hands. They are written upon topics so private and sacred in their nature, that I seldom or ever trust them even to my secretaries. Our consuls are branded with infamy, because the candidate C. Memmius has read in the se- U 2 nate- ^92 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 293. nate-house a written agreement made by him and his competitor Domitius with the consuls ; by which they engaged to give to the consuls a hundred thousand serteces if they themselves were made consuls, unless they produce three fuigurs, who shall bear witness that they were present, when the law passed through the wards, which never did pass ; and two consulars who shall af- firm, that they were present, when the deed for appointing the consular provinces was engrossed in the senate ; when nothing; is more certain than that no senate was then held. This engagement was not verbal, but written, and supported by proper securities*, Memmius upon I Or'ig, Non verlhi sed nominibus et prescriptionilus viul- iorum tahulis. This seems to have been an infamous transac- tion. It was of great importance for the consuls, who were going out, that a law should pass through the people, assem- bled by the Curiae, upon a bill sent from the senate, for adjudg- ing to them their several governments. The two candidates, Memmius and Domitius, undertook, under the penalty here expressed, to procure false evidences, that such a law had pas- sed the Curiae; but at the same time the two acting consuls on the other hand, agreed that this obligation, should be void, un- less the two candidates should succeed to the consulship by their interest. There is sometliing which to an Englishman appears extremely absurd in this whole transaction, and it can be accounted for only by the prodigious degeneracy of the Roman constitution at that juncture. Here the Ro- man people are to be persuaded that they had, in a body, or in a general wardmote (for that is the true sense of the words comiiia ' I'l upon Pompcy's motion, produced these papers. - Appius acted in true conformity to his character, without comitiacuriata) passed ^ law, which tliey never did, and the senate, that they had passed a bill, which never had been moved for, and, at a time, when no senate sat. The juggle was to be performed in the following manner. Every one of the ancient tribes, which were three in all, was composed of ten wards, and had an augur, who served as an interpreter of the. will of heaven, and, without his assistance, tliey could not pro- ceed. Now, though the power of those augurs was very great, yet is it absurd to think that those candidates could conceive a hope of success, by bribing those three augurs, unless the wardmotes had generally been so irregular and tumultuous and . so overawed, that only a few, and those of the most powerful, party ventured to assist them. The testimony, therefore of the aucnirs, as it alwa>^s was very sacred, under such cireum- stances, was very material. In modern constitutions the pre- sumed notoriety of a measure is often the best evidence of its having passed, and we know that a simple minute entered in a book, even in the highest tribunals in Britain, is all tlie evidence that remains of the most important resolutions havmg. passed • and, if I mistake not, even the famous pragmatic sanc- tion has no other. As the candidates therefore were not under^ the necessity of producing any engrossed records, signed and. sealed this imposition seems not so impracticable as it appears to be a't first sight. It is true, that tliere appears to be greater difficulty in the imposition they intended to put- upon the sen- ate • but we are to consider that the same thing may be said* of the senate, as of the wardmotes. We liave akeady seen that Caesar, or indeed any other great man, could intimidate all wW were not thoroughly in his party, from assembling in the senate-house, and we have many proofe in our, author's letters that it became a common practice amongst the leading men o£ Rome to publish resolutions, which Uiey had engrossed at home a& iJ SM CICERCyS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 295 vrithout any diminution of his usual confidence*: But his colleague * shrunk and fell to the ground. As to Memmius, having against the consent of Calvinus, torn the deeds, he stood appalled, and now seeks with more earnestness to bring about a dictatorship, to promote an interregnum, and universal disorder. Behold now, the calmness, the hilarity of my mind, and my contempt of the province of Cili- cia^ It is true, I have reserved one flattering picture from the wrecks of my fortune ; I mean the happy intimacy I have formed with Caesar. Good God! with what respect, with what digni- ty, with what kindness, does he treat my bro- ther, and your friend Quintus ! I could not do more as the acts of the senate, and to prefix to them the names of the senators who spoke for them, and were supposed to be present ^ their passing. Cicero tells us that he sometimes received letters of thanks from the eastern princes for decrees, which he had carried through in their favour, though no such decrees had ever passed, and though he had never before heard either the names of the princes or their concerns. ^ His family was distinguished by a peculiar ferocity of manners* » • Lucius Domitius, who was his colleague, affected great severity of manners, and great friendship for Cato, and was tii«reforc a good deal disconcerted. ^ Orig. Sduciaiug prfwincuB. So called, because Selcucui had faoik a great many towns in it, and of which Appius had obtain- «d the government ii> prejudice of our author, upon the ex- piration of his consulship. > J I more for him, were I myself commander in chief. He writes me that Osar has obligingly offered him his choice of wintep quarters, for the legion he commands. Are you not in love with that great man ; can you find his equal amongst the other parties ? But have not 1 informed you, that I was to be legate under Pompey, and to set out the 13th of January? This, I thought, served my purpose for many respects. Need I add any more ? The rest I will impart when present with you, that you may come sooner from curiosity. Present to Dionysius my sincerest wishes. For him I have not ouly kept, but have built, an apartment In short, his arrival will greatly enhance the plea- sure I shall have in yours. As you love me, I expect that you and your retinue will fix your quarters at my bouse, the very day of your arri- vaL CICERO'S ■«,' r '^'3'Im r 'f.yj CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK V. EPISTLE I. W HEN we last parted *, well did I discern your feelings, and I myself can best testify the regret which ^ Cicero, from the date of the last letter, which was the 18th of September, under the consulship of Lucius Domitius -^nobarbus, and Appius Clodius Pulcher, to the date of this letter, which seems to have been written in May, under the consulship of Marcus Marcellus, and Servius Sulpicius, inclu- ding a space of upwards of two years and a half, appears to have had no correspondence, by writing, with Atticus. It is pro- bable that they lived, during that period, (which was a very busy one, in the Roman government) at Rome, till Cicero being one of those consulars who had been rewarded with no government after going out of his office, obtained that of Cilicia to which we are to understand he is now upon his journey. I 298 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. C £99 which I experience ; you have therefore the more reason for guarding against all new decrees that' may prolong our separation beyond one year. You have settled that afifair with Annius Saturni- nus with great judgment. As to bail, I entreat you to put it in, as you are now at Rome ; but some of the purchases \ such as those of the Memmian ^ Orig. Et sunt aliquot satisdationes secundum mancipium. Cujatius, 10 ohserv. cap. 4. says, that a Satisdatio secundum mancipium was a Repromissio nuda, or a bare promise, either verbal, or in writing, which passed from the seller to the pur^ chaser. This opinion of that great lawyer is strongly confirmed by a passage in Varro, Lib, 5- de lingua latina, Consuetudo eiiim erat cum reus parum csset idoneus in certis rebus, ut pro se alterum daret, a quo caveri postea lege captum est ab his qui prcedia vender ent, vadesque darent, ab eo scribi caeptum in lege mancipiorum; vadem ne posceret, nee dabitur. That is, ''it was formerly ihe custom, when the party accused was, in cer- tain cases, an insufficient bail of himself, to bring another who was bail for him. Hence it w2ls, that the same precaution began afterwards to be taken of those who sold estates, and who gave sureties, and after that it came to be part of the law of fees, that a man should neither demand nor take a surety." I shall not trouble the reader with any more quotations in favour of the sense I have given to this expression. It is plain, that in Rome, as in England, many things crept into the civil, from the criminal law. There was formerly, in both constitutions so great a tenderness towards the personal liberty of the subject, on account of matters of property, that many proceedings in their courts of law seem to be unaccountable to a person who is not acquainted with the ancient constitutions. The expres- «ion Satisdari secundum mancipium is a proof of what I say- Yox z Satisdatio \s, in fact, the giving the security of a third person i n ij Memmian and Attilian estates require only an authentic title. You have managed with Op- pius^ justto my mind, especially by your enga- ging for the hundred thousand serteces. I am even willing to borrow money at interest for dis- charging that debt, rather than wait to the last day for the payment of my own. I now proceed to what you say in the cross- lines of your letter, I mean the advice concern- ing your sister. The matter stands thus. Up- on my coming down to Arpinum, when my bro- ther had paid me a visit, we had, in the first place, a great deal of conversation concerning you ; and then we came to talk of those things respecting your sister, which had passed between you and me at Tusculanum. Never did 1 see any creature person between two parties. This was no easy matter to do in affairs of property at the time our author wrote, when we con- sider the quick shiftings of property through the many prescrip- tions of Sylla and Marius and other revolutions. It appears therefore, that in certain cases (perhaps in that of proscription, or according to the title deeds) a simple promise took place of this security, though the term Satisdatio remained still the same. The estates here mentioned were sold by Cicero for discharging his debts. ^ He was an agent of Caesar, from whom Cicero borrowed this money. 2 Orig. QucB quidem ego utique vel versura facta solvi voloj ne extrema exactio nostroruvi nominum expectetur. Or the sense of the passage may be : I will borrow the money for instantly discharging Caesar's debt, rather than suffer him to wait till it is due. 1 300 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 301 creature so gentle and good humoured as my brother then was with regard to her ; nor could I discover by him, that he thought he had any just cause to be offended at lier conduct. This was all that passed that day. On the succeeding we left Arpinum. My brother had particular reasons for remaining at Arce ^ ; I proceeded to Aquinum, but we dined together at Arce, in a house well known to you. As soon as we ar- rived, my Pomponia, says my brother, with great mildness, if you will invite the ladies, I will en- gage the gentlemen. I could imagine nothing more tender than my brother then appeared in his expressions, his manner, and his look. I suppose, said she in our hearing, I am only a guest here, being I believe, piqued because Sta- tins" had gone on before us to bespeak dinner. You see, replied Quintus to me, what I suffer every day. — And of what consequence you will say, is an affair so trifling ? I tell you, it was of such ^ This villacre still remains under the same namc^ and was so called from its elevated situation Arx a citidal, * It is wonderful to consider our author's great sensibility in every thing that concerned his relations. He seems not to enjoy himself but in the happiness of his brother, who, accor- ding to the best accounts, was not of a very amiable character in any other respect, than his being a good officer in the field, and having a reciprocal affection for our author. This Statins, who is here spoken of, very probably had all the insolence of a favourite domestic, as he was, to Quintus ; and perhaps the lady had better reason than our author knew of for her sullen beha- viour. I A such magnitude as to shock me ; so foolish were her words and so furious her looks. But I have hitherto concealed my uneasiness. All the company, but herself, sat down to dinner ; and Quintus served her from the table, but she refused to eat of what he sent. In short, never did I see any thing more good humoured than my brother, or more provoking than your sister, not to mention a great many other inci- dents, which I assure you, at that time, disgus- ted me more than they seemed to do my bro- ther. I set out from thence to Aquinum, while my brother remained at Arce. Next morning, he came to see me at Aquinum, and told me, that she refused to sleep with him that night, and that he had left her in the same ill humour I had seen her in. I shall only add, that in my opinion she appeared that day destitute of every amiable disposition \^ I have been per- haps more minute than I needed upon this sub- ject, to put you in mind that it is now come to your turn to instruct and admonish". You ' Ong. Humanitate. Tlie meaning of this word is only to be determined by the occasion on which it is used. Sometimes it signifies good-breeding or politeness, sometimes humanity, and it is taken in a variety of other senses. 2 From this passage it appears, that Atticus had been pretty severe upon the behaviour of our author's brother towards h\B wife. \^ 302 CICERO'S EPISTLES You have now nothing to do but to fulfil all my commissions before you come away; write me an account of every thing ; quicken Pontinius\ and let me know when you set out You may by all that is sacred depend upon it, there is nothing I regard, there is nothing I love, on earth, beyond yourself. I took at Minturnae, a most affectionate leave of Torquatus^. He is a man of great worth. I beg you will, when you talk with him, let him know that I mentioned him to you. EPISTLE II. At the time of my writing this letter, May 10th I set out from Pompeianum, to pass the rest of the day with Pontius at Tribulil I determined then to proceed in longer stages^ and that with- out farther delay. I had the pleasure of meet- ins with our friend Hortensius at Cumae. AVhen, at his own request, I charged him with my comniissions in general, I recommended it to him in a more particular manner, to use all his influence to prevent the period appointed for my government * Cicero had chosen him for one of his lieutejiants in his government. * He liad been praetor the year before. 3 This was a little town of Campania, and still keeps the same name. * Orig. Justa Itinera, TO ATTICUS. 303 government from being farther deferred. I beg that you will again remind him of this, and let him know from me how kindly I took both his visit and the assurances he gave me of doing me service in this, and in whatever else lay in his power. I have likewise recommended the same thing to our friend Furnius, who, I foresee, will next year be a tribune of the com- mons. Cumae, from the gieat resort of company, pre- sents to us a miniature of Rome. In the mean while, our friend Ilufio^, knowing that Vestorius observed his motions, has fairly undermined bim by not coming to wait upon me. What, is it really so ? Hortensius, great and infirm as he is, took a long journey, with many others to visit you, and Rufio not come ? I assure you he did not You have not seen him then, continue you. How could I avoid it, w^hen I passed by the market of Puteoli, where 1 suppose he had some business, and where I saw him? I after- wards took my leave of him, as I met him returning from his country-seat, and he asked my commands. Can any one think this man is ungrateful ? Is it not even commendable in him that ^ His true name was Calus Sempronius • Rufus. What is here said of him is ironical. He had a diiterence with this Vestorius, whidi was referred to our author's arbitration. But Rufio, conscious that his cause was none of the best, did all he could that it should not come to a hearing. 304 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 305 that he has not put himself to trouble for obtain- ing a hearinff. But I return to my other business. You are not to imagine that 1 have any consideration to comfort me under tlie load of misery I am to undergo, but the hope that it will not outlast the year. Many who form a judgment of me, from the practice of others, do not believe me in ear- nest in this declaration. But I desire you, who know my sincerity, to use your utmost endea- vours when the time comes — When you shall return from Epirus, I request that you will write me concerning the state of public affairs, if you anticipate any event of importance. For we are not yet sufficiently informed here, in what man- ner Ceesar treats the resolution^ of the senate; and there was a report that the towns beyond the Po were ordered each to create four magis- trates\ If this should prove true, I fear great commotions. But I shall learn somewhat of Pompey. EPISTLE 1 A motion had been made, and passed in the senate, for recalling Caesar, but it was quashed by some of the tribunes. The motion, however, was registered. - This was a scheme of Caesar to put them upon the footing of the municipal towns of Italy, where the persons who had passed as magistrates could vote in the assemblies of the peo- ple of Rome, and could even stand for public offices. 11 I EPISTLE III. On the 10th of May I came to Pontius at Tre- buli, where 1 received two letters from you dated three days before. I had sent you a packet by Philotimus from Pompeia, and really I have nothing material to impart at present. Let me have all the public news, for I see all the towns in alarm; but many of the reports are groundless. Indulge me with your thoughts re- specting the present and future situation of things. I know not what letters you want me to answer ; for I had hitherto none, excepting t\to which I received both at the same time at Tre- buli ; the one containing the edict of Publius Licinius \ and dated the 4th of May, the other being an answer to what I wrote you from Min- turnse. I much fear lest the letters, which did not arrive, and which you want me to answer, contained matters of consequence. My conduct towards Lentulus shall evince the regard 1 Every governor of a province and every praetor, who was tojudgeofcivil matters at Rome, upon entering their otfices, published a short system of the rules and laws that were to regulate their conduct, which was called an Edictum or Edict. Vol. I X [ i 306 CICERO'S EPISTLES regard I have for your recommendation n I feel a cordial esteem for Dionysius. Your friend Nicanor distinguishes himself by his attention to me. I have no more to write, and it is now daylight. I intended to reacli Beneventum this day. I hope by my assiduity and uprightness to justify your good opinion in the administration af my province. Dated the 11th of May, from the house of Pontius at Trebuli. EPISTLE IV. X CAME to Beneventum on the 1 1th of May, and there I received the letter, which, I understand from your last, you had previously dispatched, and which I answered the day I received it, by Pontius from Trebuli. It is true, I received two of yours at Beneventum, one of them was deli- vered by Funisulanus early in the morning, the other by Tullius my clerk. I am very uKich obliged to you for the*attention you have paid to that very serious affair * which I recommended to ^ Orig, Apiia Lcntulum ponam te in gratiam. Our author frequently makes use of this phrase, and in the same sense, and it signifies, I will do honour to your recommendation of Len- tulus. 2 The whole of this epistle is both obscure and ambiguous. Not to mention, that scarce two copies or manuscripts agree with one another as to the expressions themselves. We have not TD ATTICU3. 307 J to your notice ; but I am discouraged by your leaving the place. I feel disposed to favour the <>ther person, not that I am satisfied with him, i)ut because so few other suitors have applied. As to the gentleman whom you recommend as no improper match, I am afraid my daughter will nc^t ^pprpve of him, and it will be difficult by any application, on the part of your friends, to ascertain her sentiments. I indeed will yield xny consent ; but you will be absent, and my presence is also precluded. Something indeed could be done, if either of us could attend ; and by the intercession of Servilius, the approbation of Servius might be obtained. But as things stand, I do not see how the scheme can be effected were it ever so eligible. Now, as to your letter which I received from Tullius, you have acted the part of a friend to me in your applications to Marcellus. There- fore if the senate come to any resolution, let me know it For a contribution must be levied^ for me not the same advantage that Atticus had, in understanding all the little hints and innuendos of his friend. I have made out the meaning in the best manner I could J but I am not sure of being always in the right. The matter which Cicero alludes to here, seems to be the marriage of his daughter, who had been repudiated by Crassipes.. ^ Orig. Mihi enim atfrihui oportelit, item Bibulo. The word attrilui signifies in this place to appropriate, and was the senatorial X2 N \ ( SOS CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 309 me and also for Bibulus. But I dare say the senate have already adopted their resolution on that subject, especially as it is so important to the public. You have done right with regard to Torquatus. As to the affair with Maso and Ligus, it will be time enough to speak of it when they arrive. With regard to Chaerippus *, you refused your assent and shall I, honoured as I am with the government of a province, heed such a man ? But it may be prudent to comply with him, lest he injure me with the senate. Some of whom in consequence may on the motion in my favour, call for the previous ques- tion ", or demand a premature division, as is the case senatorial term when any extraordinary military money was granted for particular purposes. Attrihuta pecunia, says Varro> dicehatur qucB assignata erat, id quod attrihutum erat ces militare dicehatur. De ling. Lat. Lib. 4. The case stood with Cicero as follows : He likewise applied for leave to raise recruits in Italy, for the two legions he was to command j but in this he was opposed by the consul Sulpicius. But he was in hopes that Marcellus would comply. - ^ It is impossible, at this distance of time, to recover this and many other pieces of our author's private history. 2 Orig. Consuky aut numera. I think I have hit the true meaning of Cicero in this passage, perplexed as it is. For Monsieur Mongault in his translation, seenas to have given it fip for desperate. We learn by a passage in Festus Porapeius, that the same custom prevailed with the senate of Rome, as with that of liritiiin. Many things passed without a division, but it wasm the po^ve: of any senator to oblige the chair to divide the house, case on many other occasions. It was fortu- nate, that he disclosed to Scrofa' his intention. You are right as to Pontius ; for if he should beat Brundusium before the 1st of June, I need not press my lieutenants Annius and TuUius so much. I approve of the matter suggested to you by Socinius, provided the exception does not seem to affect my friends, who have served me. But I will think farther of it; upon the whole the affair meets my approbation. I will take care you shall know how I settle my journey, and what Pompey is to do with regard to the five deputies', as soon as I have conversed with him on the subject You house, and then the question went according to the majority. Any member might likewise insist upon telling the number of members, because there could be no house without a certain pumber. Numera Senatum, says Festus, ait quivis senator consuU, cum impedimento vult esse quo minus faciat senatus co»- sultum: postulatque ut aut res, qucB adferuntur, dividantur : aut simul corisulantur, aut si tot non sunt senatores, quo nume- ro liceat prcBscrili S, C. expectentur. Thus, consule, was the term, senators used when they moved for a division, and numera when they applied to the chair to tell the house. 1 He was a particular friend of Atticus. 2 Viz. Who were to be under him in his government. As this was a post of honour, some peculiar advantages were annex- ed to it. It appears to me as if Pompey had the naming of those deputies, in consequence of the Messian law, which our author tells us in the first epistle of the last book, gave him more power over the provinces than the governors of them had. 310 CICERO'S tttStLES You have acted quite right in engaging to Oppius for the payment of the hundred thousand serteces and as you have Philotimus with you, I beg you would fulfil your engagement and close the account; and, that I may have no farther solicitude on this subject, I beg, as you love me, that you will do it before you leave Rome ; for you will thereby relieve me of a great burden. Now I have answered every particular of yours. I have however to remind you, that you are in want of paper \ Tliis deficiency it is my inte- rest to supply, as the scarcity of that article occasions the brevity of your letters. Well, I will allow you two hundred serteces for the expence of paper. And yet my crowding this page as I do, is no great indication that I am myself too profuse of this commodity, while so many facts and rumours are flying about, to afford matter for writing. If you have any cer- tain accounts of Caesar, let me know them by a letter, and write me fully on every thing else by Pontinius. EPISTLE * The raillery of our author here arises from his friends complaining, that he could not write any more, because his paper failed him. TO ATTICUS. 311 EPISTLE V. I HAVE really nothing to write to you ; for I know of nothing to recommend to your care, for every thing has been done ; neither can I give you any fresh information. There is, in fact, nothing new, neither am I in a humour to detail trifles ; I am oppressed with various cares. All I can tell you is, that while I write this, I pre- pare to set out for Venusium ' in the morning of the 15 th of May, on which day some business will probably be done in the senate. Write me therefore an account, not only of all that is done, but of all that is said; and I shall receive your letter at Brundusium. For I am there resolved to wait for Pontinius, till the day you mention. I will write you an account of the conversation I am to have with Pompcy at Tarentum upon the state of public affau-s ; m the meanwhile, I desire to know to what precise time I can address my letters directly to your- self, that is, how long you are to be at Rome, so that I may be either sure of the person to whom I send them, or that they may not mis- catry. But before you leave, pay the hundred thousand • This town lay between Apulia and Lucania, and is famous for being the birth-place of Horace, 312 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS- 313 thousand serteces. This I wish you to regard as one of my most important concerns. I shall then be able to pursue, ' with your concurrence, the measure which your advice has suggested \ EPISTLE VI. X ARRIVED on the 18th of May at Tarentum, and as I had resolved to wait there for Ponti- nius, I thought it advisable to spend the inter- val of his arrival with Pompey ; and this I did the more cheerfully, as I saw that he would take this kindly of me. For he invited me to be with him every day in his house, and I accepted his invitation with pleasure, because I shall receive from him long and authentic accounts of public affairs ; and, at the same time, I shall be furnished with his advice as to my conduct in the government. But I begin to shorten my letters to you, as I know not whether you are at Rome or not Notwithstanding this, I will continue writing, rather than that you should not receive letters from me, while there is a possibility of your receiving them. At present, however, I have neither any commission nor any news to send you. ^ He means his connections with Cxsar, from whom he had porrowed that money. { ^ you. I have no commands but those, which I have already signified, and which I hope you will execute as you promise. When I have any news I will let you know. One thing, how- ever I must insist upon while I think you are at Rome, I mean my affair with Caesar, which I beg you will finish before you come away. I earnestly wait for your letters, chiefly that I may learn the time of your departure. EPISTLE VII. JVIy letters, or rather my daily accounts to you, become every day shorter, because I am more and more inclined to think you are gone to Epirus. You must know, however, that I have taken care of what you recommended to me. Pompey insists upon assigning me the number of praefects above mentioned \ But not^ that they shall be idle, or that they shall preside in courts of justice. On the 20th of May, 1 They were five, and are mentioned in a former letter. 2 The text is mutilated, and restored only by conjecture. The oric^inal is vacationes,judiciariam caussam. It seems Ci- cero insisted upon his lieutenants serving in the field, the ex- emptions from which services were called vacationesj nor would he suffer them to preside in courts of justice. 514f CICERO'S EPISTLES TO Arncus. 315 May, I set out for Brundusium, after spending three days with Pompey at his house. I left him one of the most excellent patriots^ in the world, and in the greatest readiness to defend his country from all the impending calamities we so much dread. I shall wait for your letters to inform me both of what you are doing, and where you reside. EPISTLE VIII. X HAVE been detained for twelve days at Brun- dusium by an indisposition of which, as it was not attended by a fever, I am now recovered, and by the expectation of Pontinius, of whom I have not yet heard one syllable: but I have been some time waiting for a passage. If you are at Rome when this reaches you (which I scarcely think you are) I most earnestly beg your atten- tion to what follows. I received letters from Rome informing me, 'that my friend Milo complains of my having injured him in suffering Philotimus to become tjne of the purchasers of his effects'. I was induced 1 This I believe to be ironical, for it is impossible to be ima- gined, after what our author has said upon Pompey's character before, that be is in earnest here. 2 This is a very black part of cur author's story, notwith- standing all he says here to excuse it. We have already seen from induced to agree to this from the opinion of Caius Duronius, whom I Ifnow to have the greatest affection for Milo, and to answer the favourable character you had given him. Now, the result of our consultation upon this subject; was as follows. His property should be pur-i chased by us, in the first place, least a spiteful, unconcerned purchaser should rob Milo of at large number of slaves he had carried with him; in the next place, that the proper provision, which he intended to make for his wife, might be secured; and we had it likewise in contempla- tion, that if any thing could be saved for him, we could save it with the greatest ease. Now, I desire you to examine the whole affair; for things by report are often exaggerated. But, if Milo really complains ; if he writes to his friends on this head, and if his wife is of the same opi- nion, Philotimus shall not, against Milo's consent, continue from our author himself, under what infinite obligations he yffUs to MiIo,-whom he treats as the greatest man, the hrmest p^tt'itt, and iht best friend that Rome or the world beheld. But this excellent person being, for the murder of Clodius, condemned to banishment, and his estate being confiscated, this Philotimus, who was Cicero's creature and dependent, with his master's privacy, and by his command, buys Milo's effects, ♦though none but the most infamous and mercenary amongst the Romans ever were concerned in such bargains. In short, notwithstanding what he says here, Ciceio, as appears from se- veral of his letter^, had a share in the spoil, the goods being sold greatly under value. 316 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. Sir continue in possession of his effects, but restore them, according to the agreement made between us. I had no such object in view as is ascrib- ed to me. You may speak with Duronius\ for I have already written to Camillus and Lamia, and the more so, because I was not absolutely sure of your being at Rome. In fine, determine things in that manner, which shall appear most likely to promote my honour, my reputation, and my interest. EPISTLE IX. vJn the 15th of June, I arrived at Actium", after we had feasted like Bacchanalians at Cor- cyra and Sybotae^ upon the provisions, which you presented, and vvhich were spread before us by Areus*, and my friend Eutychides, in the most hearty, hospitable, manner. As our voyage was very uncomfortable, and as I saw tljat we must have had great difficulty in doubling the point of ^ Duronius, Camillus, Lamia. These were private atten- dants of our author and Atticus. * 2 This was the promontory of Epirus, so famous from the defeat of Anthony by Octavius, afterwards Augustus Caesar. ^ This was a port in Epirus, opposite to the isle of Corcyra. ^ Areus and Eutychides were freedmen of Atticus. » of LeucateS we chose to go from Actium by land; but I thought it beneath my dignity to approach Patrae in little boats, and without my equipages. As you have taken every opportunity of giving me your advice on that head, so it is my daily study to inculcate upon my dependents what I am determined to practise myself, I mean my fulfilling this extraordinary department^ of go- vernment, with the utmost impartiality and self- denial. I hope that the Parthians will remain quiet, and that fortune will be on my side. To- wards attaining these ends, I will perform my part Let me know, I beg of you, what you are doing ; tell me the several stages of your in- tended removals, in what situation you left my affairs at Rome, and above all things, in what manner you have settled my debts with Oppius. All this you may do within the compass of a single 1 Leucate was the extremity of a promontory of Epirus, which was joined to the main land by the Isthmus of Corinth, which was so very narrow, that the Corinthians in the infancy of their navigation, and, when their vessels were very small, used to carry them over it by land to prevent doubling the cape of Leucate, and they even cut a canal tlirough it, but it seems afterwards to have been filled up: So late as our author'* time, navigation was so imperfect, tliat mariners durst not vea- ture to lose sight of land, which put them to infinite labour in doubling capes, * He got his government out of common course, since he ought tohavo had it immediately upon going out of his consul- ' ship, 518 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS, 319 single letter, which you are to forward so as to come to my hands. One thing, however, I recommend to you in a more special manner, (the affair you write is not likely to be discussed during your absence, but, when you return, will be made a subject of dis- cussion) to make interest with all our friends, and especially liortensius, that my year may remain upon the usual footing, without any new alteration. So earnest am I in this request, that I am in some doubt, whether I should not desire you strenuously to resist its being intercalated^ ; but I presume not to impose upon you the whole of this burden. Endeavour at least to obtain the whole annual term. My dearest and most delightful boy sends you his compliments. You know I have always had an affection for Diony- sius ; but it increases daily, and, indeed, one principal cause is, that he regards you, and loses no opportunity of mentioning your name. EPISTLE "* It was in the power of the pontiffs occasionally to intercal- ate, or throw in an additional number of days into any year, by which means tbey often sened their friends by prolonging the terms of their government, and sometimes they prevented their enemies by the same means. This practice became so much a job among the great men of Rome, and introduced such confu- sion into all public dates and times of payment, as made it af- terwards necessary for Caesar to reform the calendar. EPISTLE X. After reaching Athens on the 25th of June, I waited four days for Pontinius, without hear- ing any certainty of his arrival. I was, believe me, wholly engrossed by you ; and though the thought of you is habitual to my mind, the ves- tit^es of your residence here awakened more lively recollection of you in my mind. Indeed I can speak of nothing but you ; but as you may wish to hear something of me, I give you the following particulars. Hitherto neither I, nor any of my retinue, have been of any expence to the public or to individuals ; my subjects are so much convinced that this conduct tends to raise my glory, that we have taken none of the ap- pointments allowed by the Julian law, nor any thing from our hosts. Thus far it is extremely well, and my self-denial was no sooner observed, that it became t*he general subject of applause and conversation amongst the Greeks. I mean to pursue the same conduct upon this head, be- cause I know it will give you pleasure; and if I thus persevere to the end, I shall then merit and obtain your praise. In other respects, I cannot help often con- demning myself for not finding out some means or other to get rid of this employmeit , an em- ployment by no means in unison witli my habits, and 3£0 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 321 and which realizes to me the truth of the Greek proverb, *' Every man in his way." — What, say you, is all this for ; you are not yet entered upon your office. — I am little acquainted with it, and I imagine the worst is yet to come. I endea- vour (and I flatter myself with success) to as- sume a smiling face; but I am wrung to the bottom of my soul : Many things are said with anger, with insolence, with folly in various ways, with arrogance ; and if such things are not openly expressed, they are meant every day. I write you no particulars ; not from any desire to conceal them, but from my inability to ex- press them. You will therefore admire my self- command, and the great improvement I have made in the discipline of patience, if I live to return, and acquaint you with the particulars. So much for these matters — and yet I sat down with no professed purpose of writing to you upon business, because I cannot form a conjec- ture either of what you are doing, or where you are ; nor indeed, was I ever so long ignorant of my own affairs, or how my accounts have been settled with Caesar and with Milo. I am so far from seeing any person to converse with, that I do not hear, even a rumour concerning public matters at Rome; you will therefore greatly oblige me, if you will take the pains to give me all the information you can on points which you think to be interesting to me. What have I far- ther t: ii « thertoadd? Nothing, indeed, but tliat I am extremely delighted with Athens. The city it- self, its splendour, the aflfectioh of the inhabi- tants for you, a certain kindness they have for me, give me pleasure. But above all, I aih delighted with the academic philosophy, which, if in any one, is completely embodied' in my host Aristus^ For I gave up your, or rather my, friend Zeno, to my brother Quintus, but as we were next neighbours, we passed whole days with one another. Let me know, as soon as you can, what you intend, how you proceed, and, above all, when you design to return to Rome. EPISTLE XI. W^HAT ! Write so often to Rome and not a line for you ! Believe me that hereafter, pro- vided I can secure a direct conveyance, I will hazard the miscarriage of a letter rather than not write to you at all. I conjure you, by all that you 1 Orig. avu Kxru. This is a proverb, and may mean a thing * tamed up side down ; or, from top to hottom-^the whole en- tirely. In the last sense it is used in this place. — E. ^ 2 He was mentioned in other works of our author, and he was of the academy, for the tenets of which the reader may consult our author's philosophical works. Vol. I. Y « • 322 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 323 you hold dear in life, while you are at Rome, to take as much care as possibly you can, that my provincial government he not prolonged. My impatience, to revisit Rome, is as inexpressible, as are my vexations under the stupidity of all I meet with here. • Marcellus has treated a magistrate of Comum^ most 1 The case was this, Caesar, during his consulship, procured a denizenation-bill to pass, entitling those who had served as magistrates in the colony he had established at Conium to the Jus Lata, by which they became Roman citizens. Marcellus, out of disrespect to Caesar, laid hold of an opportunity of whipping a noagistrate of Comum, which was a punishment incompatible with the privileges of a Roman citizen. But before Caesar had obtained this privilege for his colony at Comum, Strabo Pompei- us, the father of the great Pompey, had obtained the Jus Latii for all the towns on the other side of the Po. There seems however here to be some inconsistency, not cleared up either by Monsieur Mongault, or any of the commentators. For if the colonies, beyond the Po, had the Jus Latii from Strabo Pompeius, why should Caesar pass a bill' in favour of that of Comum, which lay beyond the Po ? Wecan clear tliis up no other way, than by attending to what is said by Asconius, in his commentary upon one of the fragments of our author's oration against Piso. There he tells us, that Strabo Pompeius gave the Jus Latii only to the ancient colonists beyond the Po. Pom- pous enim, says Asconius, non novis colonis eas, constituity scd veterjbus incolis manenilhus jus dedit. But even this does not quite solve the difficulty I have started, because, supposing this magistrate of Comum to have been a late colonist, why should Pompey be displeased for not treating him as a Roman citizen ? We must therefore conclude, that the hatred of Maicellus, against Cxsar, was so great, that he ordered this person to be whipt I most scandalously. But supposing that he had borne no magistracy in that town, yet still he lived beyond the Po; so that oifr common friend', 1 imagine, will be as much disgusted as Ceesar himself can be, with this insult But let Mar- cellus look to that. It appeared to me likewise, that Pompey (according as you write to what Varro had said) would most certainly go to Spain. This resolution, by no means, met with my approbation. I easily made Theophanes"^ sensible, that Pompey could not do better than remain where he was. That Graecian, therefore, will do all he can to detain him, and indeed I know that Pompey has a great deference for his opinion. I wrote this letter on the 6th of July, the day on which I left Athens, after staying there for ten days. I there met with^Pontinius and Cnseus Volusius, together with my questor, so that none was absent of all I expected, ex- cepting your friend TuUius. I had flat-bottomed boats from Rhodes, with some barges of Mity- lenfE and other galleys for my conveyance and convoy. Nothing is heard of the Parthians; , Heaven whipt without making any inquiries, whether he was an old or a late colonist. Even this circumstance was enough to affront Pompey, and much more if he was found to be an old colonist. 1 Meaning Pompey. «' He was a learned Greek of MityleuK, and had great credit with Pompey, whose life he wrote. Y 2 r f 324 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 325 Heaven grant that in other respects we may prosper. I have hitherto passed through Greece highly admired ; nor have I the smallest cause of com- plaint against any of my dependents, who behave ' as if they were perfectly sensible of my character, my circumstances, and the terms on which they attend me. In short they do credit to my repu- tation. As to the future part of their conduct, it w^ill be in conformity with the present, if there be any truth in the proverb, " Like master like man." For I am resolved they shall never see any thing in my conduct, that may give them any en- couragement to deviate from their duty. But if my example be not sufficient for this, I will have recourse to more severe measures. Hither- to I have recommended myself by gentleness, which, I hope, has not been altogether unsuc- cessful. But all my attendants say, that my pa- tience cannot extend beyond the year. I there- - fore beg you, my friend, to use all your interest to prevent the risk of my being disgraced by a prolongation of that term. I now return to your order ; excuse me for not having mentioned to you my prefects*. You may ^ name * I am not quite satisfied with Monsieur Mongault's trans- lation of this passage which he reads as follows. In perfectis excusatioy tis quos voles, deserto. Non ero tarn tJLsrtupos (animi sHspensi et dubiij quam in Apukiofui, which he translates, // faut i name in their commission whom you please ; for I shall not hesitate so much in that affair, as I have done with regard to Apuleius. I love Xeno as well as you love him, and I am convinced he is sensible of it. I have honoured your re- commendation of Patro, and others of his sect'. This, believe me, I have done from a regard to your worth. For Patro told me that you had written him three tinges informing him, that the concern, which I took in his welfare, arose mere- ly from esteem for his learning, a circumstance which he regarded with gratitude. But when Patro faut que vous m*excusie% sije nai point fait Apuleius prefet;je serai moins difficile pour tout autre tsf vous pouvex me dinner qui il vousplaira. The reading, in the original it is true, is ir- retrievable, but I think Monsieur Mongault has taken too great liberty, even with the translation in his own reading. I have regarded his reading, but I have given it a turn in the translation, which I think does less violence than his does to the original, and is more defensible in point of propriety. * Orig, Reliquos larones. I shall not here trouble my reader with any of the many learned expositions of this word, farther than it relates to our author's meaning here. It appears pretty plainly to have been of celtic original, and to have signified a man of weight. But as is the common case of conquered coun- tries, the Romans sometimes gave this title a contemptible turn, as if it signified a heavy man. Notwithstanding this, the word seems to have been in such general use over all Europe, that it still retained with it a certain dignity, as appears by other parts of our author's works. In this place, however, he certainly means the followers of Epicurus at Athens, and his application of it to them is equivocal and pleasant enough. I have trans- lated it in that equivocal sense. w % 326 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 3^7' Patro had applied to me to solicit your Areo- pagus for a repeal of a decree \ made under the praetor Polycharmus, Xeno, and afterwards Pa- tro himself, thought it much more advisable for me to write to Memmius, who went to Mitylenee, the day before I came to Athens, to persuade him to inform his friends by letters, that he would not oppose the repeal ; for Xeno was sen- sible that it never could have been obtained from the Areopagus, against the consent of Memmius. Now Memmius himself had laid aside the thoughts of building, but still he was displeased w ith Patro. I was therefore at great pains in writing him the letter, of which I have s6nt you a copy. ^^ I beg that you will express my condolence* # ^ with ^ Orig, vvjoi^rftyLitrKTiAiijt decretum. The case was this, Mem- mius, who had been banished from Rome, and who resided at Athens, had obtained leave from the Areopagus, or the magis- tracy of that city, to build a house upon tl)e ground, on which the house of Epicurus had stood, and where its ruins were still to be seen. The Epicureans took this amiss, and made use of the interest of Attic us with our author, to engage the latter to obtain a repeal of this order of the Areopagus, which indeed was pretty arbitrary, as Epicurus had left his house and gar- dens to the future professors of his sect. This, as appears from our author's letter to Memmius, Ep. Fam. Lib. 13. Ep. 1. was strongly urged by Patro, who seems to have been chief of the Epicureans at Athens. " This seems to have been a private story, and is hardly worth the pains^ commentators have bestowed upon it. It is possible I withPilia. I will tell you the affair, but you need not disclose it to her. I received a packet in which was a letter from her ; I seized, openexi, and read it, and indeed it was written with' * great sensibility. If at Brundusium you re- ceived letters, without any from me, it must have been at a time when I was indisposed, for I will not desire you to accept of the common apology*. Let me know every thing, and especially how you are in health. .N EPISTLE XIL A VOYAGE is a dreadful thing, even in the month of July. After six days sail we arrived at Delos - from Athens. On the 6th of July, the wind was unfavourable, and we came from Pyrae- eus, possible Cicero might break this letter up by mistake. My only difficulty is, why he should desire her husband to condole with her in his name, and at tlie same time conceal the cause of that condolence. ^ 1 The original is vo/xav^^^a excusatio, which means the excuse generally made by men of business, that they had no leisure — that their time was engaged 5 for v3//,a»^f/oj signifies prtB/ecto- rius, or one that is occupied in public affairs. This at least is the explanation approved of by Olivet, and appears, it must be al- lowed, the most satisfactory. — E. 2 This was an island, the chief of those which a* e called the Cyclades in t^e Archipelago. 39& CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 329 eus^ to Zoster^ where we were weatherbound ajl the next day. On the 8th we had a pleasant voyage to Ceos, from whence we reached Gyarus^ driven before a brisk gale, which carried us, sooner than we wished for, to Syrus *, and from thence to Delos. You are no stranger to the flat-bottom- ed boats of Rhodes, and how ill fitted they are to bear a swell of sea. I was therefore in no hurry to proceed, or to move from Delos, without signs of a prosperous wind. I wrote you from Gyarus concerning Messala * the moment that I heard of his affair, together with my opinion which I also sent to Hortensius. I expressed to him my unfeigned sympathy ; but I impatiently wait for the account of the public opinion concerning the trial of his nephew, and the state of the commonwealth. I expect you to W/ite like a consummate statesman, because I know you are reading my political works along with our friend Thallumetus : if so, I shall know from you not only present, but future, events ; « for ' P^raeeus was a port of Athens. ^ , A promontory of Attica. ' These were two islands in the iEgean sea. * This was another of the Cyclades. * He had been tried for undue practices in coming to the consulship, and, though he had been onoe acquitted, he was found guilty upon a second trial, and sent into banishment, not- withstanding all that his uncle Hortensius, the famous orator could do to save him. i for even your client, the very grave Helenius, could instruct me as to the former. I expect that before this comes to your hand, that the consuls will be chosen, and that you will be able to form a judgment concerning Caesar, Pompey, and even the courts of judicature. As you love me, I beg you will finish my affairs, since you are to remain at Rome. I entreat that you will take care of the brick aquaeduct which I neglected to mention in answer to yours. In respect to the water, I wish you to oblige me with your usual alacrity. From what occurs to myself, as well as from what you suggest, I con- ceive this a great convenience ; you will there- fore take care that somewhat may be done. I shall only add my request that you assist Philip, if he has solicited your assistance in his af- fair. When I am settled, I will write you more fully. At present I am surrounded by the sea. EPISTLE Xlil. On the 22nd of June, 560 days after the battle of Bovilla ', I came to Ephesus, after a safe and pleasant voyage, though somewhat slow on ac- count 1 This was the recounter in which Clodius was killed by Milo, and from which our author affects to date as being a remarkable Epocha for himself and his country. «w •' # > y 330 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 531 count of the heaviness of the Rhodian flat-bot- tomed boats. You have, no doubt, heard, with other things respecting me, of the deputies, the private gentlemen, the multitudes of people, who came to meet me at Samos^ and in still greater crowd at Ephesus. You must know, however, that our farmers of the public received me as if I had been the governor of the province, and the Greeks, with the same satisfaction as they would have done the praetor of Ephesus. From which you will conclude with certainty, that my conduct for these many years has been acceptable to both parties. But I am in hopes to practise those principles which I have learned from you, and keep well with all ; and this will be the more easy for me, as my province has already finished its contract with the farmers. — Here I must end; for Sestius, the bearer of this, while I am at sup- per, tells me he is to set out this very night. I have taken care of all your little affairs at Ephesus, and 1 have strongly recommended Phi- logenes and Sejus to the favour of Thermus ^, though, before my arrival, he was most liberal of his * This island lay opposite to Ephesus, which was a Roman government, and it had been long a maxim preached up by Cicero, that a wise Roman patriot would behave in such a manner as to reconcile, to himself, the affections of all ranks of men. ^ * He had, during that and the preceding year, been gover- nor of Asia, after serving as praetor in Rome. /* I ' m his promises to all your dependants ; and I have likewise recommended to him Xeno of Apollo- nis. In short, he has absolutely promised to do all you can desire; I have likewise settled with Philogenes the account of that money I borrowed from you. So much for these matters. I return to the affairs of the city. By all you hold dear, as you are to remain at Rome, I conjure you to make it a strong, and an indispensable, preliminary, that my commission be not protracted beyond the year, and, that too, not intercalated. You are then to advert to my other concerns recommen- ded to you, particularly that domestic business * which you know I have so much at heart, and my transactions with Caesar, whose friendship I courted, by your advice, without repenting as yet of that connection. And if you have any notion how desirous, how anxious I am to be informed of all public, and even of all private events, you will send me a minute and faithful account of them. Above all things, let me know the state of the trials past, present, and to come ^ Inform me concerning the water I wrote about, whether it has been minded, or what Philip is doing in that matter. EPISTLE * 1 Probably the marriage of his daughter. ' 2 Orig. In pr'imis ecquidjudiciorum status autfactorum, aut futurorum etiam laloret. Meaning the trials of undue prac- tices amongst candidates for public offices, encouraged, and set foot by Pompey the year before, 4 332 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 333 EPISTLE XIV. « U NTiL such time as I shall settle in some place, you are not to expect that my letters will either be very long, or always written with my own hand ; but they shall be both the one and the other, as soon as I have leisure. 1 have just finished a most sultry, dusty, stage. Yesterday I wrote you from Ephesus, and this comes from Tralles. I expect to reach my province by the 1st of August, from which day, if you love me, you are to reckon the annual term of my govern- ment. In the meanwhile, it luckily happens to roe, in the first place, that the Parthians are quiet, that the contract of my province is finished M ith the farmers, that Appius * had quelled the mutiny of the soldiers, and that they are paid up to the 15th of July. We were received in Asia with prodigious satisfaction, for our journey cost not a farthing even to the meanest inhabi- tant I am in hopes that all my dependants have done honour to my character ; I am not however without alarming apprehensions, and yet I hope for the best. All my retinue are now arrived, excepting your friend Tullius, I in- tended going directly to the army, that I might employ * He was Cicero's predecessor in the government of Cilicla. I employ the remainder of the summer in military, and the winter in civil, duties. As you know me to be as anxious about the public as you are yourself, I beg you will write me every thing as it is, and is likely to be. You cannot oblige me more, unless by finishing what I gave you in commission, and especially that domestic concern, which you know lies nearest to my heart This note, which I have written in the midst of bustle, I conclude with haste. Hereafter I will write you more particularly. t EPISTLE XV. On the last of July I came to Laodicea, and from that day you are to reckon ^ the year of my government. Nothing could be more agreeable or welcome than my arrival in this place, and yet you cannot imagine how sick I already am of this employment. Here my genius, to which you * Orig, Ex hoc die clavum anni movehis. This expression has an allusion to one manner of reckoning years amongst the Romans, that of moving a nail, which had the year before been driven into the gate of the temple of Minerva, and driving it afresh into another place of the gate, and thus the number of holes served as a reckoning from the number of years. Lao- dicea being the first town of his province to which Cicero arri- ved, he desires that the term of his government may be fixed from the day on which he entered that town. I 334 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 33^ you are no stranger, has not scope enough for its ' operations, nor can my studies here display their beautiful eflbcts. Since it is not a very desira- ble thing for me to determine causes at Laodi- cea, while Plotius^ decides at Rome, and while a certain friend of ours is at the head of a great army, I have the command of two nominal, weak, legions. But these are not the matters that I regret. I regret the loss of my conspi- cuous ^ The whole of this passage displays excessive weakness. The Plotius, here spoken of, seems to have been the same who was this year praetor at Rome, and our author ^>erhaps had no great opinion of his abilities compared to his own. As to the gene- ral, liinted at here, it is not so easy to say wlio he was, some commentators think he means Cassius, but that will not agree witkhis circumstances, for he was then at the head of a very inconsiderable number collected from the ruins of the army of Crassus. Monsieur Mongault thinks he means Caesar, but I cannot be of that opinion. It is true, he sometimes affects to call Caesar his friend, but the friend, here mentioned, is cer- tainly a person who commanded a great array, and ©f whom our author had a hearty contempt. This therefore agrees bet- ter with Pompey, whom he frequently affects to call his friend, whom he greatly despised, and who was at the head of the army at Rome, in the same manner as Plotius was at the head of the law. Add to this, that the word nostcr points out a common friend to Atticus as well as our author, which when we consi- der our author's manner is scarcely applicable to Caesar, though it is highly so to Pompey. The passage brought by Monsiedr Mongault, in favour of his own opinion, seems to make against himself, and to strengthen my conjecture in this. Itaque Cfpsaris aviicij says he in a former epistle. Lib. 4. Ep. l6. Me dico et Oppiuni, dirumparis licet. I cuous station, of the forum of Rome, of my family, and of you my friend. I will however do the best I can to bear with all, provided it be but for a year, but all beyond that will be death to me. If you remain at Rome, such a prolongation, however, may be guarded against. You ask me what I do here ? I live in such a manner as to incur great expences. So much am I pleased with my plan of conduct, and so scru- pulously do I abstain from all pecuniary advan- tages, as you have prescribed, that I am in danger of borrowing money to pay the sum you lent me; I do not again lay open the wounds of Appius, but they are too evident to be concealed. On this 3rd' of August, at the time of writing these letters, I set out from Laodicea for the , camp at Licaonia', from whence I resolve to march to Taurus^ and then, with colours dis- played, I will endeavour to demand your slave from M^ragenes \ ^ I look like an ox under a pack-saddle^ and the drudgery of this government is evidently little adapted 1 This was a province of Asia Minor. * A mountain lying between Cilicia and Capadocia. 3 This is a private piece of raillery, scarce recoverable at this, time". ' It seems this Maegeranes was a Parthian, who had entertained a fugitive slave belonging to Atticus. * This was ^ proverbial expression j the original is Clitella lovi sunt impositcc, plane non est nostrum onus. I 336' CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 3S7 adapted for me ! I will, however, bear my loa9, but, as you love me, let it not be beyond the year. Attend at the tiitie at Rome : rouse thfe whole senate in my favour : you cannot imagine how uneasy I am at being so long without news from home. Therefore, as I have often desired you by my letters, take care to acquaint me with every thing, especially what concerns the public. I cannot write any more, as my letter, from the length of the road, is likely to miscarry. The bearer however, Caius Andronicus is my friend and familiar acquaintance \ As to you, there are friequent opportunities to convey letters to me. You can often forward them by means of the receivers of the pasture- far, or, in the packets of the farmers bound to our ports. EPISTLE XVL V « •«, A HO u Gil the packets of the farmers of the revenue set out while I was upon my journey on the public road, and even in haste, yet have I snatched this short time, lest you should think me unmindful of what you recommended to me. I therefore sat down upon the very road, to write you 1 The original is here very uncertain; I read, plura scribam tarde redditiiro 9 Sed dabam familiari homini, ac domestico, Caio Andronica Puteolano. n you a short account of matters, which require a long explanation. Be it known to you, that on the last day of July, I arrived at this oppressed and irrecoverably ruined, province, where I was most impatiently expected. I remained three days at Laodicea, three at Apamea, and three at Syn- nade \ and in all those places nothing was heard but the inability of the people to pay their poll and capitation-taxes^ the selling of all their own possessions, the sighs and the cries of the oppres- sed, which indicate the government of a brute rather than of a man. The inhabitants are tired of life. Their misery, however, receives some alleviation, that they have been at no ex pence from nie, my deputies, my questor, nor any of my retinue. You must know that I refused to accept, not only of pay and other perquisites allowed by the Julian law, but even of wood; nor put I any man to farther expence than that of furoishing me with four beds and a lodging; nay in many places I was without a lodging, and generally passed the night in a tent. Incredible therefore was the crowd to meet me from the^ country, the towns, and all the houses round. Even my arrival, indeed, seems to give them new life. 1 Tliese were three towns of Pbrygia Aecassiana. 2 Orig. Audivimus nihil aliud, nui imperata ti!^ya^»Ki» {ex^ actionem capitum) solvent non posse, *»^^ (possessiones) omni- am vendiias. Vol. I. z 358 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 839 life. Could you but hear bow tiiey extol the justice, the disinterestedness, and the clemency of ypur friend, and how greatly he has surpassed their fondest expectations! ; As soon as my predecessor heard of my arrival, he retired as far as Tarsus, the remotest part of all the province, where he still exercises his judi-» eial capacity. We hear not a word concerning the Parthians ; and yet some people, who came from those parts, mention that a party of our cavalry has been cut oft' by those barbarians. Bibulus has not as yet so much as thought of repairing to his government; because, as some say, he intends to remain the longer in it I aoa now two days journey from the camp, to which I am posting. EPISTLE XVII. X RECEIVED from Rome a packet without any letter from you. This is an omission which \, eannot impute to you, but to Philotimus, I mean, if you had your health and were at Rome. I dic- tated this epistle as I sat in my chaise, on my journey to the camp, which I can reach in two days. Some days hence 1 shall have bearers, to whom 1 can with safety entrust my letters. I have therefore reserved wliat I have to say for them. With regard to myself (though I could wish wish that you heard it rather from another) so disinterested is my conduct in the province, that I have not taken a farthing from any man. No more have my legates, tribunes and prefects ; so punctual are they to my orders, and so zealoua of my glory. Lepta' behaves wondertuUy weH to me. But I am now in haste ; a few daifs hence, I will write you every thing. The younger Dejotarus, who has received the title of king from the senate, has carried my nephew, and my son, with him, into his kingdom, which I thought the most convenient residence for the boys while 1 was in the field. Sestms« has informed me by letters of his conversation with you about the domestic concern, which hes nearest my heart, and of your opinion on tbi3 subject As you love me, attend to that matter, and tell me what can be done in it, and what you think of it He writes me likewise, tliat Hor- ten^ius has talked somewhat about prolonging the time of my government. But Hortensius himself told me when he-sawme at Cumae, he would most strenuously endeavour, that my go- vernment should be but of one year's standing. If you love me, secure to me this point My reluctance to be absent from you is inexpres- sible ; ' » He served ia the capacity of chief eDgineerin Cicero's army. 9 SeepageaoS, floteS, z s I 340 CICEROS EPISTLES TO AtTICtJS. 341 sible ; and by my speedily finishing my commisf sion, I am in hopes that the glorious character I bear for justice and disinterestedness, will become the more illustrious. This was the case with Scaevola, who governed Asia for no more thaa nine months. When our friend Appius understood that I was approaching, he removed from Laodicea as far as Tarsus, where he acts in a judicial capacity, though I am in the province, an affront which I am far from resenting ; for I am sufficiently em- ployed in healing the wounds which this govern- ment has received, and which I endeavour to do, fis little as I possibly can, to his discredit But j desire you will let our friend Brutus^ know, that Appius has not behaved handsomely in re- tiring, upon my approach, to the other extremity of the province. .- '■■*•■■ RPISTLE XVIII. - xlow earnestly do I wish you to be at Rome, if you are not there; for I know nothing for cer- tain, but I received your letters dated tlie lyth of July, informing me, that you was to set otat for Epirus about the 1st of August But be that as it will, whether thi§ finds you in Rome or Epirus,^ you must know that the Parthians under the command ^ H« was son-in-law to Appius, t command of Pacorus, tli6=S0n of their king OrodesS have passed the Euphrates with almost their whole army; . We have yet had no accounts of Bibulus, being in Syria, and Cassius continues 'shut up with all his army in the town of Antioich. I am now in Cappadocia, near Mount Taurus, at the town of Cybistra with my array, and the enemy is in Cyrrhestica, which is the nearest part of Syria to my province. ' I have sent the senate an account of all thes'e matters ; but, if you are at Rome, you will peruse my letter beforehand, and consider whether it i8 proper to be presented. You are to think for me upon a great many other points, nay upon all; the main one is, that no means be taken ill the time of deliberation" to increase the busi- ness, or to prolong the term, of my government The truth is, situated as I am, my army weak, and my allies few, especially those who are faith- ful to us, the winter will prove my greatest safe- tj' If, before the time, they should not attack piy province, I am only afraid lest the senate's apprehensions » This was the prince wh6 defeated Crassus the year before. t Jnter cmsa et porrecia. Not as Manutius supposes, the time of Cicero's departure, but the time of deliberation m lie senate/ whether he was permitted to return, agreeably to hii wishes, or compeiled to continue in it another year. For the iieure is borrowed - fh>m those entraib, which, when cut and Mrdtched out. determined, whether the sacrifice was to be carried on. which was the case: if auspicious, or again repeated which was done, ifinauspicious,--*. ♦ :342 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 343 N apprehensions from the internal state of affairs may then be so great, that they will not 5ufFer Pompey to leave them\ But if they send another towards the spring, without prolonging my term, I shall be indifferent. You must know then (whether you be at Rome, or absent, or returning to it, is not mate- rial) my present situation is as follows. I have adopted those measures, which appeared to me the most advantageous, and hence entertain hopes of success. I rely upon my forces ; my camp is strong, and^onvenient for forage; it lies on the ▼ery frontiers of Cilicia, and all our posts can be easily changed. My army is indeed small, but I flatter myself, entirely well affected to me, and when Desotarus arrives with all his forces, their numbers will be then doubled. No general ever hbd the same advantages with regard to the good dispositions of my allies; so greatly are they charmed by my affability and moderation. I am now putting arms into the hands of our Roman citizens, and raising magazines of provisions, from the country, in the fortified places of my government. Thus I am prepared to fight, if a fair opportunity presents, or to act upon the defensive, if I choose it. Yoii have no reason, therefore, to be discou- raged, for well do I know you, and I can see you s ^ He was designed to have the chief conlmand airainst the Parthians. you melt with tenderness, as plainly as if you were before my eyes. But I beg you to do all that lies in your power to be at Rome m the month of January, if nothing should be done by the senate in my business till the 1st of that montli. Never can I suffer any prejudice while you are present. The consuls are my friends, the tribune Furnius is my friend ; but still I must rely, in that delicate conjuncture, upon your assi- duity, experience and interest. It is, however, unnecessary to use many words with you. My two Ciceros are with Dejotarus, but it there should be occasion, they can be conveyed to Rhodes, If you are at Rome, be as punctual, as usual, in your correspondence ; but if you ar« in EpiruB send some of your domestics express t© me, that you may know my situation, and that I may know what you are doing, and what you intend to do. I am more assiduous about the affair of Brutus' than he would himself be, were he here in person. But I am now to give up my guardianship, and to have no farther concern with my pupil, so perplexed and disordered are his afltairs. I shall, notwithstanding, act so as to please you, which is doing more than plea^ sing 1 This relates to money that was doe to Brutus from Ario- barzanes. the young king of Cappadocia, whose father havmg been murdered, Cicero, by order of die senate, acted as a kind of tutor for the son. ( (^ 544 CICEROS EPISTLES 1X5 ATTiaJS. 34J sing him; I shall act, however, I hope, to the satisfaction of both. EPISTLE .XIX. X HAD just sealed the letter, which I suppose you have received by this time, all written with my own hand, and giving an account of whatever concerns me, when all of a sudden a courier from Appius on the 2 1 St September, broughtme your letter in forty seven days from Rome. What a length of time, and yet he pretended to come with haste. From the tenor of it I make no doubt, that after waiting for Pompey's return from Ariminum, you are now set out for Epirus, and I can easily imagine Ihe concern you hint at, which must be as great to you in Epirus as it is to me here. I have writ- ten to Philotimus that he should not demand of Messala the debt of Attelicus. I am glad that the fame of my progress has reached you, and shall be still more so, when you are acquainted with all the circumstances. I share in the pleasure which you take in your little daughter at Rome, and tliough 1 never saw her, yet 1 have conceived an afiection for her, and I believe her to be so vitniable, that she deserve? it You will J'sup^ pose, I j)Ose, now, renounce Pa tro and his sect\ I am extremely glad, that you are pleased with the mea- sure I have taken during my campaign respecting the Tarcntine squadron'. As to what you write me of your being pleased with the repulse of a person ^ who presumed to enter the lists with the uncle of your sister's son, it is to me a fresh proof of your great affection. You therefore did right to let tne know it, that I may partake in your joy, for it never could have come into my mind. This perhaps, you may not credit. Do as yoii please. It is however true; for there is a great difference between indignation and envy. ■0, EPlSTLE ^ This Patro was of the Epicurean school, one of wJ^^ maxims was, ov ^ver/Jtoy nv»t rnv fofyv rnfv^os rx wkv*, that the hve of children is not implanted by nature in the breasts of their parents, Cicero, on perceiving the great affection of his friend stewards his daughter, rallies him on his former opinion, and , now supposes him convinced of Us falsehood by the dictates of jhis own bosom. — E. « They were of light horsemen which served in the Roman armies and bad their name from Tarentum, where their order was first instituted. Every one of them had two horses. One of which he rode, and another he led ; and they were so expert Jn riding, that they could vaultfrom the back erf one upon die other, 3 Tliis was Hirrus, who had opposed Cicero when he stood for the augurship, and who had been lately disappointed of the yEdileship. k ( 346 CICERO'S EPISTLES I TO ATTICUS. 347 EPISTLE XX. Ox the morning of the 17th of December, Piii- denissa' surrendered to me, being the forty- seventh day after the commencement of the siege. What untowared place is Pindenissa, for till now I never heard the name, — How can I explain it? Can I render the obscure country of Cilicia so well known to you as is" iEtolia or Macedonia? You must know, at present, however, that I could undertake no such actions as have been performed there, with such an army as I com- mand here. I will therefore give you a summary account of the whole ; for so you give me leave to write in your last letters. You know in what manner I arrived at Ephe- sus; you even congratulated me upon the hon- ours which that day crOuded upon me, and which indeed gave me the greatest pleasure. The towns through which I passed, after leaving Ephesus, received me with high admiration ; and on *"^ lliis was the capital of that part of Cilicia wLich was ■ansubdued by the Romans. « Monsieur Monganlt, with all his accuracy, seems not per- fectly to have attended td Cicero's meaning in this passage. For the tanta negotia is evidently put in opposition to the great actions performed by Attkus's favourite Greeks upon those two cfelebrated theatres of war, iEtoli and Macedon, with which Atticus was so well acquainted. m the last of July, I arrived at LaodiCea, where I staid for two days in great splendour ; and the assurances of my favour eradicated the injuries which they received from my predecessor. I afterwards passed five days at Apamea, three at Synnada^ five at Philomelum, and ten at Iconium; and my administration, during this time, was conducted with unexampled equity, clemency* and dignity. From Iconium I went, on the 26th of August, to my army, and, four days after, I reviewed it near that place. Some disagreeable news arri* ving concertiing the Parthians, 1 decamped from thence towards Cilicia, through that part of Cap* padocia which borders upon Cilicia, with a view ofmakingArtavasdes the Armenian, and the Par- thians themselves, sensible that they were pre- cluded out from all access to Cappadocia. After being encamped for five days at Cybistra in Cap* padocia, I had certain intelligence th^t the Pdr- thians were at a great distance from the frontiers of Cappadocia, and that they rather menaced Cilicia itself. I therefore immediately marched for Cilicia, through the defiles of mount Taurus. On the 5th of October I reached Tarsus, from whence I marched towards mojint Amanus, the ridge of which pours its streams into Syria, and t>r> the other into Cilicia. The mountain wag billed with our eternal eneliiiesj of whom we kil- led a great number on the 1 ^h of October. By ordering i I 348 CICERO'S EPISTLES ordering Pontinius to advance against them in the night, and by my attacking them in the morning, I took and burnt their camp though strongly fortified. 1 then received the trium- phant name of Imperator. For a few days, I possessed the very camp which Alexander, a far more accomplished gene- ral than either of us, occupied against Darius, near the river Issus. After staying there for five days, and plundering and ravaging mount Amanus, I moved my quarters. For there are beings which, though empty phantoms, appearing in the field of battle, spread ^e^r and consterna- tion *. These effects were felt by the enemy ; and the * These imaginary beings were called Uafu panes and bence the confusion and honors, whioh they were supposed te occasion, ntxttxix panics. They were thought to appear under those empty forms, which the Epicureans stiled species, Simula^ era tmioLi, liSa/Xa ; and for this reason Cicero designates them T« xiva, i. e. «iW* empty forms. The original term, as Bocchart has observed, is Hebrew {pun) and signifies to ter- rify. Plutarch (vt^i laiJo^ t"^) joins these supposed spectres with the satyrs, and represents them as frequenting, in an especial manner, the land of Egypt. — E. Monsieur Mongault translates the whole passage Car vous scavez qua la guerre it Jaut craindre Ics supriseSj tff ne pas irop tenter la fortune. But I cannot, for ray life, conceive why Cicero should be apprehensive of those panics and terror* seizing his own army. , I have therefore applied them tp that of the Parthians, and indeed the natural connection of the sepse directs me so to do, and likewise destroys^ in a great measure, a charge TO ArFIGUS. 34d the fame of my march gave great spirits to Cas* iius, who was shut up in Antioch, and terrified the Parthians so much, that they retreated from the town, and Cassius followed them with great slaughter. In their flight Osaces, one of their generals, a man of great authority among them, received a wound, of which he died in three days. This raised my reputation in Syria, and in the meantime Bibulus arrived. He wanted, I sup- pose, to be on the same footing with me, as to the empty title of Imperator, and he therefore set out in quest of cheaply purchased laurels ^ upon the same mount Amanus. But he lost all his first battalion, with the centurion of the first company, one of the best officers of his rank, Asinius Dento, with other officers of the same corps, charge brought by Monsieur Mongault against our author's ve- locity, in ascribing to his own march the defeaf- of the Parthians. For, as I have translattxl the words this charge vanishes, and he says no more to his friend than that the effects of panics and terrors are very strong in armies, which might be the reason why the Parthians, hearing of his great successes, had raised tibe siege. And indeed to speak candidly, a general of much greater experience and less vanity than our author possessed^ might have fallen, in like circumstances, into the like mistake, if it was a mistake; for I neither see any absurdity in supposing the Parthians to have been alarmed with his niarch nor any van- ity in his believing that they were, as we cannot suppose hitr\, when he wrote thik letter, to have been informed of the truth of this affair, arid of the stratagem which Dion tells us Cassfoii made use of gn this occasion. 1 Orig\ Laurtvlam inmnstatceo ^yceiere. « aUKHtiiSdUUI 350 CICERO^ EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 351 corps, togetlier with Sextus Lucilius, a colonel in his army, son to Titus Gavius Saepio, a man of rank and fortune. This, must be owned, was an event much to be deprecated in respect both to the occasion and its consequences. I then invested, with a trench and a ditch, Pin- denissa, the strongest of the towns yet unsub- dued in Cilicia. The inhabitants had been, from time iumiemorial, in arms against us. They were hardy and desperate, and provided with every thing necessary to make a vigorous defence. By the help of a very large mound, covered galleries, a lofty tower, a large train of engmes, a number of archers, and laborious arrangements. I car- ried my point without any considerable loss, though I had many wounded. You may be sure this success heightened the joys of our trium- phal feast especially as I withheld, from the soldiers^ none of the booty but the horses. The slaves were sold upon the 19th of December, and, while I write this upon the bench of justice, the money for them already amounts to twelve mil- lion serteces\ I then gave the command of my army to my brother Quintus, witli orders that th^y should take up their winter quarters in the worst aft'ected part of the province, while I retired to Laodicea. So much for these matters, but let me return to what preceded tliem. As. i One hundred thousand pounds. iV 1 • As to your earnest request, and what I regard more than all things, your anxious endeavours that I should give satisfaction to our fluent Cynic ^ may I die, if any thing could be done more becoming, in this respect ; yet 1 do not call my conduct, self-denial, because self-denial is a vir- tue that implies the mortification of our appetites. I never in the whole course of my life experienced so lively a pleasure as was afforded me by thii instance of integrity. The glory attending such virtue, gives me less delight than the virtue itself. Believe me my joy was so great, that it inspired me with higher ideas of myself, for I had not else known, that I was capable of such exalted deeds. I aiii ^ Orig, Ut etiam ligurino ijiu(/.u freprehensori) satisfaciam^ Monsieur Mongault, in his note upon this passage, is inclined to think that Cicero had Hortensius in his eye, and other com- mentators tliink that he had Cato. I cannot believe that he had either. It is true, the epithet Ligurinus agrees very well witli Hortensius, who knew all the quirks of speaking, as the term Momus does with Cato, who always u^de use of very irae. language. But nothing can be more distant than the character of Momus is from that of Hortensius, whom our author is per- petually blaming for disguising his hatred towards him, and notiiing can suit worse than Ligurinus with the character of Cato, who was the mirror of plain dealing. I have therefore given the expression a general turn and a different sense. Li" gurire signifies to lick, and is a metaphor taken from the liquor- ishness of the chops of a dog when any thing is in his view that he cannot come at. ' Upon the whole, I should like the reading Ligurientem momum, if I could find it authorized by any man- uscript. i 359, CICEROS EPISTLES I am justly raised in my own estimation ; sufely nothing can be more noble. These splendid achievements are heightened by the glory, that by me Ariobarzanes lives and reigns. For by the way I preserved that prince on his throne by my conduct and authority; and his traitors found me not only incorruptible but inaccessible. Meanwhile I have not exacted a straw from Cappadocia, and 1 hope that, tiirough the whole year of my government, I shall not put my pro- vince to the expence of a single farthing. I have retrieved the debt, due to Brutus, as far as I could, after he thought it was hopeless ; I love him as much you love him, 1 was going to say, as mucli as I love you. Now 1 have told you every thing, and I am preparing^ to dispatch my public letters for Rome. They will be more copious and satisfac- tory than they would have been, had I dispatched them from mount Amanus. But you are not to be in Rome at that time. It is, however, most material for you to be there by the 1st of March ; for I am afraid tliat, if Cffisar stands out when the government comes to be debated, my term may be prolonged. - But if you are upon the spot I shall fear nothing. And now with regard to the affairs of Rome, with w hich I have at last, after a long suspense, been made acquainted by your most agreeable letters, which I received the 28th of December, and which, your freedman Philo- genes, TO ATTiCUS. 35J gtnes, took great pains to transmit by a tedious and unsafe conveyance; for as to those which, you say, you delivered to the slaves of Lenius, I have not received them. I am pleased with what you write me about Caesar, and the senate's? resolution concerning him. If he answers y out* hopes in submitting to it, I shall be under no ap- prehensions. I am not very sorry that Lejus is consumed in the conflagration raised about Ple^ torius. I long to know the reason why LucceiuSI has appeared so keen against Quintus Cassius, and what has been done in that matter. When I shall come to Laodicea, I intend to order a manly gown for your nephew Quintus, and to take him under my particular tuition; for Dejo- terus, whose service is of great use to me, writes that he is to meet me at Laodicea with the two Ciceros. Meanwhile, I am impatient for your letters from Epirus, to give me an account not only how you employ, but how you amuse, yourself. Nicanor is useful to me, and I treat him with liberality. I am now thinking of sending him to Rome with my public letters, that they may be cotiveyed with more security, and that he may impart to you sa- tisfactory account of me, and bring me in return the same from you. I kindly accept the compli- ments which you sa often write me from Alexis. But why does he, as being a secretary, not send me the same under his own hand, as my Alexis Vol. I. A a doe* * 354 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 355 does to you. This verifies the proverb, A musi^ cian without his instrument^ But enough of this subject. Farevvel, and take care of informing me when you think of returning to Rome. Again and again I wish you w ell. When I was at Ephe- sus, I most earnestly recommended your interests, and your friends, to Tliermus (who I understand has a great affection for you) and I am now doing the same by letters. I wrote to you before concerning the house of Pammenes, and I again beg that you will take care, that the boy may not by any means be deprived of what by our kind- ness he possesses. This we shall both of us deem honourable. Upon me, moreover, it will confer the greatest obligation. EPISTLE XVIIL X HAT you arrived safely in Epirus, and that too, as you write me, after a pleasant voyage, gives me great pleasure ; but that you cannot, at a time sa critical to me, be at Rome gives me sensible ^ Orig. Phemib quaerltur xi^xs (Cornu). I have translated this phrase very diftereutly from Monsieur Mongault, who translates it, Jefais chercher im cor pour Phemis, without ma- king any remark upon it, though I think it a very difficult pas- sage. Phemius or Phamius was a name for any musician. I am therefore inclined to think that the sentence is proverbial^ We shall have occasion again to mention this Phemiusr \''i sensible uneasiness. In this, however, I feel com- fort, that you will not spend the winter there with satisfaction, or that you will abide there from inclination. The letters, of which you inquire the meaning from me, written by Caius Cassius, brother to your friend Quintus Cassius, were more modest, compared with those which he afterwards wrote, and in which he says he has finished the Parthian war. It is true, that, before the arrival of Bibulus, they retreated from Antioch, though not to my advantage. At present, however, they winter in Cyrrhestica, and the most warhke pre- paration is made against them. For the son of Orodes, , king of the Parthians, is now in our province, and Dejotarus, whose son has espoused the daughter of Artavasdes, from whom he has perhaps his intelligence, seems positive, that by the beginning of summer, he will pass the Eu- phrates with all his forces. These triumphant letters of Cassius were read in the senate, on the same day, viz. the 7th of October, with mine, and were full of so many alarms. Our friend Axius^ informs me, that my letters made a great impression upon the assembly, while they paid little regard to his. The letters of ^ He was a Roman senator, and corresponded with Cicero by letters. Aa 2 i 356 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. S57 of Bibulus had not then been received, but I am well assured they will be full of dismay. The consequences, of all these things I fear will be that, while Pompey is detained at Rome, from apprehension of public commotions, the senate will refuse to ratify any of the demands of Caesar and, while this difficulty is unravel- ling, the senate will be against my leaving this government before my successor shall arrive ; as judging it improper that deputies alone should govern these great provinces, while we are upon the eve of some mighty revolution. I tremble when I reflect on this, lest they should decree a prolongation of my government in such terms, as that none dare put a negative upon it; and my apprehensions of this are increased, by reflecting that you, whose counsel, popularity, and zeal, could serve me in many respects, are now absent from Rome. You will tell me, that I afflict myself with unnecessary torments. I wish they were unnecessary. But these are torments I can- not avoid; every thing alarms me. The closing paragraph however of the letter, you wrote me from Burthrotum, inunediately on your going ashore, charms me. To i/our immediate return^ as far as I see and hope, there xtHl be no impedi- ment. 1 wish you could have expressed not your hope but your conviction, that I may return. I received, at Iconium, however, in a reasonable time after their date, which was on the day of Lentulus's i Leritulus's triumph, the letters you sent by the couriers of the farmers of the revenue, written in the same undecided strain, first telling me there would be no impediment to my return, and then adding that, '' if there should be any, you would come to me in person." Your doubts torture me. From what I have written, you may conclude what letters I have received; for I did not receive the packet given, as you inform me, to Hermo, the freedman of the centurion Camula. You had often informed me of letters which you delivered to the slaves of Lenius. I per- ceive they were dated so far back as the 22nd of September, nor did I receive them till the 11th of February, when Lenius put them into my hands, upon my arrival at Laodicea. Lenius shall feel the benefit of your recommendation. At present I can only treat him with civility ; but I shall be able hereafter to do him some more substantial kindness. Tliese letters bring nothing new, except one particular, respecting the panthers of Cybira. You was in the right to acquaint Marcus Octavius', that you did not think I would com- ply. 1 He was iEdile this year, and his colleague Caslius being intimate with Cicero, liad pressed him to send him some pan- thers for the public shows out of Cilicia, which was famous for those savage beasts. But our author, who at first atfected a great delicacy, refused to harass the people of his government in catchinjT those animals. S5S CICERO'S EPISTLES I TO ATTICUS- 359 ply. Bat, for the future, assert positively that I shall not comply, where you have reason to suspect that compliance is doubtful. Hitherto, I have been firm to my own resolution and to your advice ; and, as you will find, have surpas- sed all my predecessors in disinterestedness, in justice, affability, and clemency. Nothing can exceed the admiration of the people, at their being put to no expence under my administration, on account either of my government or officers, with the exception alone of my deputy Lucius Tullius. Him, indeed, though he is moderate in ofher respects, I must except, when I say, that not a farthing has been expended. For he has exacted the appointments allowed by the Julian law for his travelling ex pences, but this only once in the twenty-four hours, since he does not, as other officers have done, exact them from every village he stops at None else of my train has made any demand. This stain on my govern- ment I owe to our friend Quintus Titinius^ Upon finishing the campaign, I made my brother Quintus commissary general of my army in their winter quarters, and over all Cilicia. I dispatched Quintus Volusius, son-in-law to your friend Tiberius, a man, in a high degree faithful and disinterested, into Cyprus, that he might remain there for some days, lest the few Roman ^ And yet several times before he intimates^ as if Tullius had been recommended to him by Atticus. i Roman citizens, who trade there, should com- plain, that they had no court of justice to resort to ; for the Cyprians are not compelled to leave their own island. I set out for Asia, on the 5th of January, from Tarsus. You can hardly imagine how greatly I was admired by all the cities of Cilicia, and especially by the inhabitants of Tarsus. But after I passed Mount Taurus, the expectation of the Asiatics, who inhabited the boundaries of my government, was sur- prising. For, in the six months of my adminis- tration, they had not once received a letter from me, nor had I sent them so much as one guest; while the same period was made by those before me a season of profit. For the rich cities paid heavy fines to exempt them from soldiers going into winter quarters amongst them. I speak rather under, than above, the truth, when I say that the island of Cyprus itself paid yearly two hundred Attic talents^ but, under my govern- ment, no exaction is demanded from it. For all these instances of kindness, which astonish the inhabitants, I accept only verbal compliments; for I prohibit all statues, temples, and trophies. In all other respects, I give no trouble to these cities, though perhaps I do to you, by thus pro- claiming my own praises. But if you love me, you will bear with me. I am thus impertinent, in compliance with your wishes. You 1 25,000L I » 360 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 361 You must know then that I passed through Asia, in such a manner, that the famine, which then raged in that part of my province, where the harvest had failed, though the most calamitous of all evils, was in respect to me a desirable event Tor, wherever I travelled 1 prevailed, not by compulsion, not by judiciary measures, not by reproaches, but by my authority and advice alone, upon the Greeks and the Roman citizens, who had in stores magazines of corn, to promise large quantities to the people of the province. On the 13th of February, I opened my judicial proceedings for Cibyra and Apamea at Laodicea ; on the 15 th of March, I will open those for Synnada, Pamphilia and Isauria. Then I will expect from Phemius the note of praise \ I pro- pose, * Orig. Turn Phemio despiciam xipxs (Cornu) ionium. Not- withstanding all the pains Monsieur Mongault, and the com- mentators have taken to explain and justify this passage, as meant of a particular person and thing. I am still convinced that the v^^hole of it is an allegory, and that the expression itself is either proverbial, or, which 1 rather incline to believe, taken from some poet, who, known to Cicero and Atticus, is lost to lis. We cannot consistently either with the rules of common sense, or with Cicero's manner, conceive the smallest meaning that can be in his thrusting it in as he does without the least connection with the matters either before or after it, if this Phemius was really a musical slave, for whom Atticus wanted an instrument out of Cilicia. At the same time, nothing is more common with our author, than a kind of preventive rail- lery ijpon his own vanity, which he generally introduces when he \ 1 i { i (" pose, about the 15th of May, to set out for Cilicia, there to remain all June, without interruption (I hope) from the Parthians. If matters fall out, as 1 wish them, I shall spend the month of July, in returning to Rome through my province ; for I entered upon my government at Laodicea, in the consulate of Sulpicius, ^nd Marcellus, on the 31st of July, and I propose to leave it on the 29th of the same month. But I will first endea- vour to prevail (though it will be against his in- clination and mine) with my brother Quintus, that he continue to act as my first lieutenant. I cannot otherwise acquit myself as a man of honour, especially as I cannot persuade Ponti- nius, who is the only proper person, to stay here any longer ; for he is hurried to Rome by Pos- tumius, and perhaps too by Postumia. This is the plan of my conduct ; you shall next know the concerns of Brutus. That friend of your's is intimate with two per- sons, who have demands upon the Salaminians; M. Scaptius and P. Matinius, in the isle of Cy- prus, and he recommended their interests to me in the most earnest manner. I knew nothing of Matinius, but Scaptius came to me in the camp, where he is rencounting, as in this place, some of his own meritorious actions. Add to this, that Phemius having been celebrated by Homer as a musician, his name became common to signify a line performer. Quid juvct, says Ovid, al surdas si cantet Phcmin^aures? \ 362 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 363 where I promised, from regard to Brutus, that I would see him paid by the Salaminians. After returning me thanks, he solicited from me a lieutenancy, I replied that I would bestow no such commission upon a usurer. My determi- nation in this respect you know I imparted to you; and when Pompey himself asked me for one, he was satisfied with my. reasons for refusing it; not to mention that I did the same to Torquatus, your friend M. Lenius, and many others. I told him if he wanted the place on account of his debt, I would engage to see him paid. He thanked me, and then departed. Aly predecessor Appius had given to this Scaptius the lieutenancy of Salamis, and like- wise the command of some squadrons of horse, to keep the Salaminians in order. Finding that he had oppressed them, I commanded the caval- ry to evacuate the isle of Cyprus, to the great disappointment of Scaptius. In short, that I might discharge my engagements to him, I or* dered the Salaminians, when they came, and with them Scaptius, to me at Tarsus, to discharge the debt. They complained much of the exorbi- tance of their bargain, and much of the oppres- sions of Scaptius; but I refused to hear them. I then exhorted and even entreated them, by all the services I had done their city, to finish the affair, and, at last I acquainted them I would force them to do it. Upon this, so far from refu- i smg sing to comply, they assured me, they would pay it with the money which they saved from me ; be- cause I had, in a manner, made them a present of so much money, by refusing to accept the usual perquisites given to their governor; and that their savings, from their public cxpence, exceed- ed the sum due to Scaptius. I thanked them ; Scaptius was satisfied and received his payment Meanwhile, in the edict I published as the rule of my government, I had fixed twelve in the hun- dred as the legal interest, and the creditor to be at liberty to add it at the end of the year to his principal sum \ But Scaptius demanded by vir- tue of his bonds, forty-eight in the hundred. You do not mean, said I, that I am to go against the rule laid dow n by my own edict. Upon this, he produced a resolution of the senate, under the consulate of Lentulus and Philip, de- claring " that an action might be held at law, *' upon the validity of his bond, before any future " governor of Cilicia." This was giving that city ^ Interim cum ego in edicto tralaticio centesimas meolserva- turum halerem, cum anatocismi anniversario ; ille ex syngrapha, postulalat quaterncLS. I have not taken the same hberttes that Monsieur Mongault has done in translating the account of this transaction, but I hope my translation is equally intelligible; nor (to say the truth) do I think he has perfectly well understood it. As to the terms made use of, the reader must apply to lex- icons and antiquaries ) for it would take a great deal of writing to explain them here. 354 CICERO'S EPISTLES citv a mortal blow, and therefore at first it struck me with horror. Upon farther inquiry, I find that two resolu- tions passed the senate, under the same cons ds, and upon the same subject. For, when the Salaminians wanted to borrow the money at Rome, and found themselves precluded from doing it by the Gabinian law, those friends of Brutus, relying on the strength of his interest, offered to advance the money at 48 per cent, provided they had an indemnification from the senate. Brutus, upon this, had interest enough to carry a resolution through the senate, import- ing '' that the clause of 48 per cent, should be of *' no prejudice, either to the Salaminians or to •* the lenders." But the usurers, having paid the money, afterwards reflected with themselves, that this resolution could do them no service, as it amounted to no more than a bare indemnification from the penalties of the Gabinian law, which forbad that any action should lie in a court of justice, upon such a bond. Another resolution then passed, importing '' That the said bond should be as valid as others." But the validity of the bond was not contested as to the payment of the principal and legal interest. After, there- fore, I had explained my sense of the thing Scaptius took me aside, and told me that he consented to all I said, but that the Salaminians thought they owed him two hundred talents and that i TO ATTICUS. 365 i that he was willing, though in reality they did not owe him quite so much, to accept of that sum. lie then entreated me to advance them up to the two hundred talents. Very well, replied I; and then sending Scaptius away, I ordered the Sala- minians to appear. Pray, gentlemen, said I, how much does this debt amount to ? They told me to no more than a hundred and six talents. When 1 had acquainted Scaptius of this, he roared. Such noise, said I, will be of no use to you, compare your accounts together. Upon this they sat down, the accounts were made up, both of them tallied. The Salaminians made a tender of the money, and pressed Scaptius to take it. He called me aside again, and begged that I would leave the matter as I found it. The fel- low importuned me so hard, that I consented, to the great discontent of the Salaminians, whom I refused to suffer to deposit the money in a tern- ple\ All who were present exclaimed that this be- haviour was most impudent in Scaptius, who was not contented with 12 percent, and interest upon interest, while others said that his folly was equal to his impudence. I could not be of that opinion ; because he used to lend money to any sure hand, at 1^2 per cent. But when the security was doubt- ful, 1 A deposition of money in a temple put a Stop to its bearing any interest while it lay there. 366 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 367 ful, at 48. This is a true state of my conduct, and if Brutus, does not approve of it, he is not vorthy of our friendship. But I know it will be approved of by his uncle Cato, especially as I suppose a resolution has just now passed the senate, since your departure from Rome, in this matter of the creditors, that twelve in the hun- dred should be the constant and the legal inte- rest. If I am not mistaken in your talent at calculation, you are perfectly sensible what a wide difference there is between this and the de- mand of Scaptius \ By the way Lucceius complains to me in a let- ter, that there is great danger lest those decrees of the senate should be attended by a general bankruptcy. He puts me in mind of the mischief Caius Julius did formerly, by prolonging the term of ' Orig. Hoc f/uid inter sit, si tuos digiios novi, certe hales iuhductum. Monsieur Mongault has, I think, mistaken the sense of this passage. He translates it, Fous veyez lien, vous qui scavez compter de comlien ce que j accorde a Scaptius monte plus haut. Now I cannot see any difference between the legal interest settled by the senate, and that offered to Scaptius by Cicero, excepting that Cicero allowed him the Anatocismus; but I apprehend that the Anoticlsmus was legal in all cases, and Cicero certainly thought it to be so by his own edict, otherwise the creditor must have sutfered considerably, even to the amount of his whole sum in about eight years. The expression there- fore quidinlersit, necessarily and naturally refers to the diffe- rence between the exorbitant demand of Scaptius, and the legal interest settled by the senate. *IM i'\n > i of payment but for a short time \ Never did the republic run a greater risk than it did at that time. But to return to the subject. Place my excuse in the best light to Brutus, if that can be called an excuse, which can be contradicted with no colour of truth, especially as I have left the whole affair and the proceedings in the same state I found them. I have nothing farther to say but to my private affairs. As to the main one of all, I am of the same sentiments with you. Let us close with the son of Posthumia ; because Pon- tidia's son trifles with us. But I wish you were upon 1 Orig. Quid olim viali, Caius Julius fecerit, cum dieculam duxerit. The obscurity of this expression has given rise to a prodigious number of conjectures. It does not appear plain to me that the decrees here blamed by Lucceius relate to the decree for settling the interest; I am strongly inclined to be- lieve that he means the decrees obtained by Scaptius to autho- rize his exorbitant interest, and which indeed tended to a ge- neral bankruptcy J whereas the decree for regulating interest seems to have been calculated to prevent it. As to the fact mentioned here concerning Caesar, we know nothing of it; nor has either Monsieur Mongault, or any of the commentators pretended to ascertain what it was. I cannot, however, help observing, that most probably it related to some part of Caesar's conduct, at the time of Catiline's conspiracy. For we find that at that time the Roman knights, who were the monied men of Rome, were terribly exasperated at his behaviour, and that Cicero, in a great number of places, hints that the republic of Rome, at that time, was upon the eve of a general bankruptcy. But for the sake of perspicuity, we must here observe, that our author calls the senatus consultum, for settling the interest, as well as those blamed by Lucceius, by the terra of Decreta. N * > 11 368 CICERO'S EPISTLES, &c. upon the spot. You are to expect no letters for some months from my brother Quintus, because Mount Taurus is impassably, on account of the snows, before June. I forward Thernms, as you desire I should, with repeated letters. King Dejotarus assures me, that Publius Valerius pos- sesses nothing, and tliat he is maintained by him. As soon as you know whether this year is to be intercalated at Rome, or not. Let me know pre- cisely the day on which the ceremonies of Bona Dea are to be performed. I do not expect to hear from you quite so often as when you were at Rome; but still let me hear as often as you can. i ff i n A END OF THE FIRST VOLUME, « R. Edwards. Printer, Ccane-Court, flttt Street. .^ m \^*- r-k t Jk' I* ' r -* ' -f «*f-^ /% ^r >f ^^j^'f?^f^^^c^*'jj(i 3 •% 4 ^/ W i^. »» dJZ, Mf . •^f S7 OL 1 JI ^''•cf J/ ^^^T*^ lV?? .rala r.S »" BRITTLE DQ NOTPI PHOTOCOf^ r Ij^*-- r it . CICERO'S EPISTLES { ■ TO ATllCUS. WITH NOTES, HISTORICAL, EXPLANATOKY, AND CRITICAL. • TRANSLATED BY WILLIAM GUTHRIE, ESQ. A NEW EDITION, CORRECTED AND AMENDED. IN THREE VOLUMES. VOL. IL Hi/*, qui legat, non multuni desidaet historiam contextam eorum teniporum. Nep. Vit. Attici. LONDON: PRINTED FOR LACKTNGTON, ALLEN, AND CO. • H.DELL AND DAVIESj LONGMAN AND CO.; W. J. AND J. R^iiARDSON; VERNOR, HOOD, ANDSHARPE; OTRIDGE AND SON; CUTIIELL AND MARTIN ; DARTON AND HARVEY ; OGILVY AND SON ; J. NUNN ; J. WALKER ; R. LEA ; E. BOOKER ; A'-H) J. ASPERNE. 1806; CONTENTS OF VOLUME 11. V.7. ^ Gift ^- JAMES PEctf .June 7, 19(3 l. EAwcfis, Frmter, Cran« Coait, ll««t k>i«€t. BOOK VI. rri 1 HE letters of this book, contain the histor>' of Cicero*s proconsulship. The last is dated the 15th of October, from Athens, in the year of Rome 703. P. 1 BOOK VII. The first nine letters of this book, are written in the same year with those in the preceding book, and the rest contains ttje best and most accurate account of the origin of the civil wars between Caesar and Pompey, which happened in the year of Rome 704, when Cicero upon his return from his consul- ship, was in expectation of a triumph. P. 59 BOOK VIII. Contains only the important transactions of sixtein days be- tween the armies of Caesar and Pompe) in Italy, during which time our author is in great perplexity how he shall conduct him- self, and consults his friend Atticus upon that subject. P. 145 BOOK IX. Continues the former curious account of the civil war after Pompey fled from Italy, for above twenty days, during which time, our author had an interview with Caesar, in the year of Rome 70(5. p^ 205 BOOK X. This book continues the same subject, with a multitude of curious particulars, to be found in no other author, and contains Cicero's Letters to Atticus, from the beginning of April to the beginning of June the same year. P. 28^ ir CONTENTS. BOOK XI. ^ About nine months past, before the intercourse of letten was renewed between our author and Atticus, and this book contains a moral, minute, and authentic account, both of the history of the civil wars, and our author's private affairs, dur- ing great parts of the years of Rome 706, 707. P. 343 IWM CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK VI. i)'ff! EPISTLE I. ■ On the 17th of February t received your letter et LaocKcea ; and read it with raptures, as re- plete with affection, love, benevolence, friend- ship, and zeal. Take therefore my answer in your own method, without my following the plan I generally lay down. You tell me that my last letters, dated the 22nd of September, are come to your hands ; and you want to know what let- ters I have received from you ? Almost all you mention, excepting those which you say you de- livered to the slaves of Lentulus, at Equotuti- cum and Brundusium. Your labour, as you seem to apprehend, is not lost ; but his produced Vol. II. B a noble CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. S a noble effect, if your intention was to give me pleasure; for never in my life, did I receive more, I greatly rejoice that, contrary to my expecta- tion, you approve of my reserve towards Appius, and tlie freedom I took in respect to Brutus. For Appius, on his journey, wrote me two or three querulous letters, because I had repealed some of his acts. Tliis is just as if a patient should be delivered over from one physician to another, and the first be displeased witli the lat- ter, for altering the regimen he had laid down for his recovery. Tims, the regimen of Appius con- sisted in evacutions; he exhausted as much as he could, the veins and the strength of the pro- vince, and delivered her over to me when she >yas expiring; and ik)w it is with pain that he sees her again restored to life and vigour. His resentment, however, is tempered with expres- sions of gratitude ; for in all my measures^ I did not interfere with his conduct ; so that, in fact, the man is only angry, because my government differed from his. And nothing surely can be more different Under his administration, the province was quite exhausted by exactions and losses. Under mine, not a farthing was raised^ in any way public or private. Need I mention his prefects, his attendants, his lieutenants, his oppressions, his lusts, and his contumelious abuses. At present, indeed, there cannot be,, even in a family, better oeconomy, greater regula- rity> rity, or more moderation than appears in every part of my province. The construction put upon this reform of abuses by some of Appius's friends, is ridiculous ; for they say that I pursue this me- ritorious conduct as a satire upon him, and that the virtue of my government is not owing to a regard for my own character, but to my spite of his. If Appius, however, as the letter of Brutus, which I sent to you, intimated, should return me his thanks, I shall be very well pleased, and yet, when I write this letter, which I do before day- break, I am thinking of repealing a great many of his wicked acts and statutes. As to Brutus, for whom at your recommenda- tion, 1 conceived a regard bordering on affection. But — no — I will check myself lest I disoblige you. — For 1 assure you that I never in my life felt a more sincere wish than to comply with the solicitation of your friend, nor took greater pains to accomplish his purpose. Though he gave me a memorial of all his commissions, and which contained only the matters which had before pas^ sed between you and me, yet I attended to every particular. In the first place, I pressed Ariobarzanes, to pay Brutus the money, which he promised to do* While that prince was with me, the affair wore a very favourable aspect ; and he afterwards began to bo pressed by a multitude of Pompey's agents. Pompey for many other reasons, especially as B 2 being ^5 * n 4 CICERO'S EPISTLES being expected to command against the Parthi- ans, has greater influence with him than any other person in the world. Notwithstanding that, Pompey is now obliged to receive in payment every month thirty-three .Vttic talents, which is not indeed the interest of the principal lent, and that too out of the taxes. But our friend Cnaeus meekly puts up witli this. He goes without prin- cipal, and he does not get even the whole of his interest. His majesty neither does, nor can pay any body else, for he is a king without either treasure or taxes to support him. He puts his country, after the manner of Appius, under con- tribution, and yet all is insufficient for discharging the interest of his debt to Pompey. It is true, two or three of his friends are rich men, but nei- ther you nor I can be more tenacious of our pro- perty than they are of theirs. Notwithstanding all this, I am incessantly soliciting, teasing, ex- horting, and reproaching the prince by letters. Dejotarus has even informed me, that he sent an embassy to Ariobarzanes concerning his transac- tions with Brutus, but that all the answer he recei- ved was, that he had no money; and in my con- science I believe never was there a kingdom more drained, or a king more needy \ I am therefore thinking • The poverty of the kings of Cappadocia seems to have be- come proverbial about this time. Horace takes notice of it- Mancipiis locuples, eget ctris Cappadocum Rex. TO ATTICUS. 5 thinking of either resigning my guardianship, or, as Scflevola' did in the case of Glabrio, stopping the payment of both principal and interest. And yet I have bestowed the lieutenancy, which, in compliment to me, you gave to Brutus upon Marcus Scaptius' and Lucius Gavius, who were his agents in Cappadocia, for they no lon- ger traded in money within my province. Now you may remember we agreed, that he might have w hat lieutenancy he pleased, provided he did not dispose of one 'to a money-broker. In consequence of this, I presented him two con> missions besides ; but the persons, for whom he asked them, have left the province. Now concerning the Salaminians ; that affair I perceive has surprised you as well ag me, for he never 1 This seems to have been apiece of private histoiy, Scaevola probably was tutor to a young gentleman, whose affairs were so circumstanced, that he was obliged to suspend the payment of the debts upon his estate. 2 Ori 16 CICERO'S EPISTLES You seem curious to know how I have proceed-' ed with regard to the farmers of the revenue. I caress Uiem, I humour them, I compliment and oblige them, and thus I prevent their being op- pressive to any person. What will surprise you still more is, Servilius has even given them a title to the interest of the money, for which they contracted with the province. I manage the affair thus. I give tlic contractors for the pro- vince a reasonable time for payment; and if they make it before the day elapses, I tell them I will deduct the legal interest, but if they pass the day of payment, they must then stand to the terms of their contracts. By this regulation the Greeks are not loaded with intolerable usury, and the farmers are extremely well pleased. Thus I give them fine compliments in abundance, and make them always welcome at my house. In short, I live with them so familiarly, that each thinks himself the favourite. I know them how- ever too well. You understand what I mean. What do you say concerning the statue of Africanus? What a medley this letter is ! But your letters have made me in love with his manner. Is Mettellus Scipio ignorant, that his grandfather never was censor' ? The inscription upon that statue 1 Our author probably means a statue of the second Scipw Africanus, which Metellus insisted upon to be a statue of Scipio Nasica, the grandfather of this Scipio. to ATTICUS. 17 statue to which you have given so exalted a place in the temple of Ops, mentions only his being consul. In like manner; upon the statue in the temple of Pollux, the inscription mentions only his being consul ; and that it is his statue appears from the attitude, the robe, the ring and the face. And indeed, when I observed in that cavalcade of gilded equestrians^ which this same Metellus has erected in the capitol, the itaige of Scipio Africanus, inscribed with the name of Serapion ', I thought it had been the mistake of the workmen, but I am now convinced it was owing to the disgraceful ignorance of Metellus himself. With regard to my mistake concerning Flavins and the calendar, if it be one, it is a very gene- jTal mistake. You have done well to inquire; I was obliged to follow a public, though perhaps a false tradition, which is often all the direction* we have with regard to the Greeks. How gene- ral is the opinion among them, that Alcibiades in his voyage to Sicily threw into the sea Eupo- lis, the father of ancient comedy. Yet this fact is confuted by Eratosthenes^, who has produced plays of Eupolis, composed since that time. Not- ^ This was a name given to Scipio Nascica, on account of bis great resemblance to a slave of the same name. - He wrote a treatise upon the drama which is quoted by Atheneus and Julius Pollux. Vol. II. C 18 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. li Notwithstanding this anachronism, Duris' tlie Samian, an accurate historian, has not lost liis credit by falling into it, because the mistake was general. Is it not universally understood, and by Theophrastus among:>t others, that Zalcucus^ composed tlie LocrianMaws? But does Theo- phrastus suffer in his character, if your favourite Timeus has shewn him to be under a mistake as to the fact ? But it is disgraceful in a man to be ignorant, that his great grandfather never was censor, especially as none of the Cornelii, after his consulate*, was censor during his life. As to Philotimus, and tlie payment of the five hundred twenty-four thousand serteces; I un- derstand he is to be at Chersonesus about the beginning of January ; but as yet I have had no letter from him. Camillus whites me, that he has received my arrears. 1 should be glad to know, what at present I do not know, how much they 1 He was contemporary with Ptolemy Philadelpbus, and wrote the history of the Greeks and Macedonians. « He was a disciple of Thales, and is mentioned by many authors. » These were descendants of the Locnans, who lived about mount Parnassus, and lived in a city of Magna Gra>cia in Italy, which was built by the attendants of Ajax Oileus, who set- tled there afi^tlie war of IVoy. 4 It was a rule among the Romans not to make a man censor, till he had passed the otfice of consul, and this made the mistake, ofMeteUus the more inexcusable, for the reason given by Cicero. they amount to. But we will tall^ of these mat- ters hereafter, and perhaps more conveniently, when we meet. I own to you, my dearest friend, that I was alarmed with that passage, towards the end of your letter, which thus begins, Need I add. You then conjure me in the most affectionate terms to be always circumspect, and see how ^very thing is transacted. Have you then heard any rumour? It is not indeed likely that you have; for I think nothing has or can escape my vigilance. But yet, that hint, though cautious, seems to me to have some meaning. I again tell you, that your answer to Marcus Octavius was very proper, had it been a little more peremptory. For Ceelius. has sent his freedman to me with very pressing letters, but his request respecting the panthers, and the con- tributions of the several states^ was scandalous. I replied that I was mortified by the public inat- tention to my government, and that it w^as not known at Rome I levied no money on the public, but to discharge the public debts. I informed him farther, that I could not bring myself to think, that I could honourably grant, or he receive, the money he demanded ; and I admonished him from the sincere affection I have for him, that he ^ These iEdiles generally insisted upon the provinces being taxed to defray the expence of the public shows, which Cicero thought was a scandalous imposUion. C 2 # 20 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 21 he, who accuses others, should see that himself bf free from faults As to his request respecting the panthers, I observed that it was not consis- tent with my honour to compel the Cibyrites to hunt at the public expence. Lepta is quite overjoyed with your letter, which is well composed, and has done me great honour with him. I am gratified that your little daughter ^vas so earnest in desiring you to send me her compliments; I am likewise obliged to Pilia. Do you, therefore, present my compli- ments to both, but especially to the former, whose affection is the more remarkable, as it is impossible for her to remember ever to have seen me^. The date of your letter being the last of December, renewed to me the dear re- membrance of that glorious oath^ which shall never be forgotten. Never did a magistrate ap- pear with more lustre than I did that day. Now I have answered all particulars; and I repay you in kind, and not gold for brass. I have 1 Caelius had distinguished himself in three several impeach- ments of great men for mal-practices. 2 There is an obscurity in the original/ the best reading h. Quern jampridem nunquarii vidit. ^ When Cicero was going out of his consulate, he was hin- dered by Metellus Nepos, the tribune, from haranguing the people. He therefore took the opportunity of adding to the ordinary oath made by the consuls^ upon the expiration of thehr office, that he had saved his country, and in this the people ap- plauded him. I have indeed another note from you, which I must not let pass unanswered. Lucceius, it seems, has parted with his seat at Tusculanum, and I think, he has done right, if it serves to diminish his expences; for there he used to have no other company but his music-master. I should be f^lad to know how his affairs stand. I even hear that our friend Lentulus has been obliged to advertise his estate at Tusculanum to raise money; I wish the aflfairs of both, and also those of Ses- tius and Caelius, if I mistake not, were less em- barrassed. We may say of them all' as Homer says of the Greeks, when Hector gave them a challenge, They Bluslid to i^efuse^ and to accept it feafd^. I suppose you have heard, that Curius has some thoughts of recalling Memmius. As to the debt of Egnatius the Sidicinian, my hopes are neither very faint nor very sanguine. Dejotarus is ex- tremely concerned about the recovery of Pena- rius, whom you recommended to me. So much for your short letter. I beg that, about the 15th of May, when I shall be at Laodicea, you will frequently write to me, and that, after you are arrived 2 Orig. aihfrQsv /xsv xvnyataQoct, ^itarav S Izjohx^ai. Our author applies this to their situation with regard to Caesar, whom they wished well, though they durst not yet venture to decjare their attachment to him. I #4 S2 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 23 1 1 s ft arrived at Athens, you will send couriers to me ; for I shall then learn how tilings are at Rome, and how the governments have been distributed, which distribution has taken place in the month of March. But how came you by means of Herodes to extort from Caesar fifty Attic talen^ts. By this you have incurred great displeasure with Pompey. For he thinks the money', thus ob- tained by you, is so much loss to him, and that CsBsar will be more cautious how he proceeds in building his seat in the forest of Aricia. I learned this circumstance from Publius Ve- dius, who, though a profligate, is very intimate with Pompey. He came to meet me with two chariots and a chaise drawn by coursers, a litter, and such a numerous retinue, that were the bill brought in by Curius' to pass, Vedius could not be taxed at less than a hundred thousand serte- ces. He had in one of his chariots a Cynoce- phalus ', and was attended by a number of wild asses. Never did I see a more unprincipled man. But hear the sequel. He was entertained at Laodicea, in the house of Pompeius Vindul- lus, 1 This relate? probably to money borrowed by Caesar of Pompey. 2 This was a kind of a turnpike bill for imposing a tax upon all equipages to keep the public roads in repair. 3 Very strange stories are told of this creature, which seems to have been very rare among the Romans. It was an ape with the head of a dog, and hence called xtnwxf^aXoj. — E. lus, where he left his baggage when he set out to wait upon me. In the mean while, Vindullus died, and, of course, his estate was understood to devolve to his patron Pompey the Great. Caius Vennonius then came to the house of Vin- dullus, and in sealing up his effects, he seizes those of Vedius, in wliich were found the mini- atures^ of five ladies, and amongst them that of the sister and wife of your two friends Brutus and Lepidus, whose names indeed are characteristic of their characters ; for none hut sl brute would have associated with such a fellow, and he who could connive at such foul misconduct in his wife, must be gay indeed ^ This incident I by the way communicate to you ; for both of us have too much of female curiosity. There is one thing I would recommend to you, I hear that Appius is constructing a portico at Eleusis; what would you think, if I should make one for the academy? You will tell me, I am in the right of it; but I desire to have your senti- ments in writing. To speak the truth, I am so much * Some here read the original Langulcula*, others Plangul- culae. The latter resembled childrens' dolls, and were made use of as puppets by the young ladies of Athens. Be this as it will, those mentioned here by Cicero seem to have been common presents of ladies to their gallants, and a tacit acknow- ledgment of their having granted them favours. 2 The reader no doubt perceives Cicero's puns here. Lepi^ dits in the Latin signifies a jovial man 24 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. i much in love with Athens, that I am desirous tQ bequeath to it some monument of my affection. I am averse to inscribe my own name upon the statues of others ^ ; bat in this I will be directed by you. Let me kiK)w the precise day on which the Roman mysteries are to be celebrated, and how you spent the winter. Farewel, written on the 765th day after the battle of Leuctra^ EPISTLE II. W HEN your freedman Philogenes came to pay me his compliments at Laodicea, and told me he was to sail directly for you, I committed to his care this letter, in answer to that which I recei- ved from the courier of Brutus. I will begin with the latter part of yours, which has given me much uneasines; I mean what Cincius wrote you con- cerning the conversation of Statins, who to my very great concern, is made to say that I approve of the measured I approve of it! — Could such a thing 1 Cicero seems to have been doubtful, whether to present to the city of Athens anew statue, made at his own expence, or tp appropriate one already made by a new inscription.-^E. 2 He means the death of Clod i us. 2 This regards the bad understanding that still continued be- tween Cicero's brother and his wife, sister to Atticus, which bad gone so far that Statius, the favourite freedman of Quintus Cicero^ thin<» come into their head ! Give me leave to say that I wish the bonds of my intimacy with you to be multiplied, though those of affection are the most binding. So far am I from wishing for any dissolution of the ties which at present mutually bind us. As to my brother, I am no stranger to the harsh expressions he often throws out upon this subject ; but I have as often brought him again into temper. I believe you are sensible of this. In our late journey and campaign, I have frequently seen him in a passion, and as frequently appeased. I know not what he has written to Statius, but, whatever resolution he may have adopted, it was indecent for him to correspond with his freedman upon so delicate a point. For my own part, it shall be my prin- cipal study to prevent his taking any step that may distress us, or be improper in itself. In an affair of this nature, every friend ought to exert himself to the utmost ; but the chief burden of this duty falls upon young Cicero, who is now more than a boy. I am not wanting to him in my counsel on this head, and I think he has a most tender and becoming affection for his mo- );her, and is likewise wonderfully fond of you. He has indeed a fine genius, but I have my dif- ficulties Cicero, took the freedom to say, that our author approved of their being divorced from one another; and this it seems had piqued Atticus^ who was unwilling that his sister should be thus exposed. t 4 2C CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 27 / / / / ,0 5=^ n. ficulties in managing his spirit, which is not a lit- tle untractablc. Having thus in my first page, answered the last page of your letter, I now return to the first page of yours. I imagined, that all the cities of Peloponnesus were maritime, upon no obscure authority, but such a one as you approve of, I mean the geography of Dicaearchus. In Chre- ron s narrative of the descent into the cave of Trophonius\ he blames the Greeks on many ac- counts, for being so fond of the seaside; nor does he mention a place in all Peloponnes- sus, that is not maritime. Notwithstanding the regard I have for the author, who was a very ac- curate historian, and lived in Peloponnesus, yet still I was astonished, and not knowing what judgment to form, I consulted Dionysius. At first he was at a loss ; but at last he gave it en- tirely for Dicaearchus, who has. as much credit with him as your banker has with you, or mine with me^ lie pronounced a place called Le- preon ' This regards some passages of our author's book upon go- vernment, which Atticus was not quite satisfied with. This Charon was supposed to be the son of Apollo, and Dicaearchus pat into his mouth a narrative or description of the descent into the cave of Trophonius, so well known to antiquity for reveal- ing future events. It seems Atticus was not satisfied with our author's assertion, that all the to^^Tis of Peloponnesus were ma- ritime, because Arcadia, which lay within Peloponnesus, was entirely an inland province. 2 Viz. Cdius Vestorius and Marcus Cluvius. t! preon to be a sea town of Arcadia. As to Tene\ Aliphera and Tritia, he was of opinion, that they were built since the Trojan war, and as a proof of this he produced Homer's catalogue of ships, where no such places are mentioned. Now I transcribed this passage from Dicaearchus ver- batim into my own work. I am sensible I ought to write Phliasios, and you will take care to make that correction in your copy, as I have done in mine. But, at first sight, the similitude of the words deceived me ; for I believed that Philountai came from Philius in the same man- ner, as Opontioi from Opous, and Sipountioi from Sipous. But I soon was convinced of this mistake. I perceive that my moderation and disinteres- tedness give you pleasure ; but how would it be enhanced were you here in person. O ! had you been but present at the court of justice, which I held from the 13th of February to the 1st of May, for all the divisions of my government, excepting Cilicia. There I performed wonders indeed. Many cities had the whole of their debt cancelled ; many were greatly relieved ; while all of them, being judged by their own laws and in their own forms, recovered their spirits by thus recovering their constitution. I have given those cities a power of keeping themselves free of * All those places He in Greece. .-t * I 29 CICERO'S EPISTLES of debt, or making their debts very easy, by two means ; the one, during the whole time of my government, I have not put them, and I speak without a figure, to one farthing of expence, I repeat it, not to a single farthing. It is incredi- ble how many cities have discharged their debt from this single circumstance. Tlie other mean I gave them was as follows; it is not easy to conceive how the cities were purloined. This I learnt from those, who had for ten years past been magistrates, and who did not scruple to ac- knowledge the fact; and therefore, to prevent a public censure, they returned with their own hands the money to the people. By this mean the people, without any difficulty, paid to our farmers of the revenue all the land tax for this term\ of which, till then, they had not paid a farthing, and all their arrears of the last. This has endeared me to the farmers ; ** and they will be sure, you say, to remember the obligation." Of this I am sensible. In all the other departments of my jurisdiction, 1 proceeded with no small address, and my cle- mency has been joined to wonderful aftkbility. In giving my audiences, I lay aside the state of the governor of a province. I suffer no ap- plications to be made to the gentlemen of my bedchamber. Before day-break, I walk about * Orig. Lustro. Viz. Five years. TO ATTICUS. 29 in my house, as I used formerly to do, when I stood for public offices. This behaviour secures me popularity and influence, and, I was formerly so accustomed to it, that it gives me as yet no pain. I think of setting out for Cilicia on the 7th of May, where I intend to spend the month of June. I wish I may do it in peace, for we are threat- ened with a dreadful war from the Parthians, and I set out in July on my return; for the year of my labour ends upon the 30th, and I am in great hopes that it will receive no prolongation. I have the minutes of all that passed in the se- nate to the 7th of March, by which I learn that our friend Curio ^ is resolved to hazard every thing, rather than that any final resolution should be taken with regard to the province. But I hope to see you very soon. I now come to your friend Brutus and also mine, since you will have it so. Believe me, I have done every thing that 1 could effect in my province, or in Cappadocia. I have dealt, and daily deal, with the king, in all shapes, I mean by letters. I had him at my own house for three or four days, during some political troubles into * The senate had passed a resolution the year before, that in the month of March, this year the consuls should bring in a bill for settling the governments of the provinces, particularly those of the two Gauls. But Curio, who was a tribune, and some of his colleagues put a negative upon it. 30 CICERO'S EPISTLES into which he fell, and from which I delivered him. At that time, and upon all occasions af- terwards, 1 did not fail to beg and entreat him upon my own account, and to admonish and exhort him upon his. I know I made a consi- derable impression, but his distance from me pre- vents my learning precisely what effects my in- terference has produced. With regard to the Salaminians, though I might compel them, I persuaded them to offer Scaptius the payment of his whole debt, at the rate of twelve in the hundred, from the date of the last bond, the interest being added to the principal for every year and no longer. A ten- der was made of the money, but it was refused by Scaptius. '' So you say, you wanted that Brutus should lose somewhat of his due, for his security bore forty-eight in the hundred." But this could not be paid, nor, if the payment of it were possible, could I, in honour, suffer it. I hear that Scaptius repents his not accepting the ofier. He has some reason ; for that which he called a decree of the senate for suffering an ac- tion to be brought on this bond in a court of law, passed only because the Salaminians had contracted the debt, in express contradiction to the Gabinian law, which makes all bonds for money, borrowed in that manner, to be le- gaily void. The decree of the senate, therefore, only <^ave this bond that degree of validity, which " ^ any TO ATTICUS. 31 any other bond possesses in a court of law. But nothing was done with regard to the interest Thus you have a regular detail of what I have done in this matter ; I believe that Brutus will approve of it; 1 doubt whether you will, but I am certain of Cato's approbation. And now to advert to yourself: and will you, my Atticus, the panegyrist of my accomplishments and integrity, will you, asEnnius^ says, with your own lips desire me to restore to Scaptius his squadrons of horse, to enforce the payment of this money? Were you who, as you write me, are sometimes pained that you are not with me, were you, I say, with me, woi»ld you suffer me, were I willing to comply with such a request? Give him, you say, but fifty horse. I tell you, Spartachus had not so many when he began his rebellion. What mis- chief ^ The quotation from Ennius is ausus es hoc ex ore tuo, which will appear to have much propriety, if we apply to it a remark made by A. Gellius Lib. i. 15. thatfrivohus words arc conceived in the mouth, hut words of truth and wisdom in the breast. For this reason, observes the same critic. Homer represents the sage Ulysses, as sending forth his deep voice ew rvBtosfrom the breast. To words thus hatched, as it were, in the mouth, and, destitute of the gravity of wisdom and truth, uttered without thought, Cicero alludes when he says ex ore tuo. is worthy to be added, that, accv)rding to the ancients one use of the teeth was to serve as a wall or hedge in restraining the pet- ulance of the tongue. Hence such expression as this applied to a rash sj)eaker in Homer, voiov ct ntos (pvytv trxot o^otruv how could such a speech escape the hedge of thy teeth. — E. 32 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 33 chief then might not such a wicked band commifr upon so open an island ? Have they not com^ mitted it ? Reflect on what they did, before 1 en- tered upon this government, when they shut up the senators so long, in the very place in which they deliberated, that some of them perished throucrh hunger* For you must know that Scaptius had a lieutenancy from Appius, which gave him the command of some troops. Will you then, whose idea presents itself to my eyes, ^s soon as I begin to form any virtuous, any noble design, \nll you, I say, desire me to make Scaptius a lieutenant? Besides, we came to a resolution, and I convinced Brutus of its expe- diency, not to give any such commission to money-broker. What ? entrust a troop of horse to Scaptius ? Why not a corp of infantry? He is then become liberal of his money|^ " But you say, the chief men of the island agree to it." I know the con- trary ; they came to me as far as Ephesus, and with tears in their eyes, laid before me the wick- edness of those troops, and the greatness of their own misery. Upon this, I immediately issued out orders for the squadron to evacuate the island by a certain day, which was one of the reason^ 1 Orig. Sumpti jam nepos evadit Scaptius. Scaptius it seems had oflfered to maintain those horse, which was very ex- pensive, upon which Cic«ro rallies him. reasons why the Salaminians in their public acts, have so highly extolled my conduct. But what occasion is there now for this troop, for the Sa- laminians tender the money, unless you mean that I should compel them by force of arms to pay interest, at the rate of forty-eight in the hun- dred. If I did, shall I ever dare to read, nay, to touch, the works of your favourite authors ? Give me leave to say, my dearest Atticus, that in this matter you are too partial for Brutus, and I am afraid, too unmindful of me. I have acquainted Brutus in what manner you have written to me on this subject. Now, as to what remains, I will cordially oblige Appius, ^ but only so far as is consistent with my honour; for him I bear no personal grudge. I love Brutus; PompeyMs wonderfully zealous to serve him, whom indeed I regard more and more every day. You have heard that Caius Ceelius"^ comes hither as questor. I know nothing of the matter, but I cannot help having my own thoughts. I am not pleased ^ He was accused of mal-administration by Dolabella, but his great friends interposed with Cicero to favour him, which was very much in his power, because the proofs against him were to be collected in our author's government. 2 His eldest son had married the daughter of Appius. 3 This was Caius Caelius, surnamed Caldus, of a consular fa- mily, whom, though our author does not choose to brand ex« pressly, yet he makes a shrewd insinuation against him. Vol. II. D 't ,'itU..uiuaLi>L 34 CICERO'S EPISTLES pleased with the conduct ofPamanes*. I hope to be at Athens in the montli of September, and I should be extremely glad to know the whole of your rout. Your letter from Corcyra acquainted me with the egregious folly of Sempronius Ilufus". I have only to add, that I envy the influence of Vestorius. I would have scribbled more, but the day now dawns, the ^rowd breaks in, and Philogenes is in haste. Farewel then; make my compliments to Pilia and my dear Caecilia^ when you write to them ; my boy Cicero sends you his. EPISTLE III. JL HOUGH nothing remarkable has happened, since the letter I sent you by your freedman Phi- logenes, yet I think proper to write to you by Philotimus, whom I am sending back to Rome. In the first place then, the thing that gives me the greatest concern, is a matter in which you, as se- parated ^ See vol. i. page 354. c See vol. i. page 303. ^ She was daughter to Atticus, and so called from her fa- ther's being adopted into the family of the Caecilii. See vol. i. page 210. TO ATTICUS. 35 parated from me by a wide sea ^ can give me no assistance ; for it must be instantly determined. You perceive that the term of my government draws to a conclusion (for I must leave it on the 30th of July), and my successor is not yet appoint- ed. Whom am I to leave as my lieutenant in the government? My brother is indeed the most proper, as well as most popular, man for this employment; first, because nobody better de- serves the honour with which it is attended ; in the next place, he is the only man I have with me, who has served the office of prsetor. For Pon- tinius, according to the condition and contract upon which he attended me hither, has left me for some time ; and nobody thinks my questor deserves it; for he is frivolous, profligate, and rapacious *. As to my brother, I must let you know, in the first place, that I believe it will be impossible for me to prevail with him to accept of the lieute- nancy. For he hates this province, and to say the truth, nothing can be more hateful, nothing more ^ Ono".— — rioXAa 5iv /A8Ta/;^/« "Soros KvXiv^ii KviAoir iv^tivs a.'Kos, This is a proverbial expression, literally thus, the south wind rolls letween us many waves of the wide 5ea.— E. 2 Orig. Tagax. This word, though obsolete, is appropriate, and is applicable to a thief, as one who wishes to lay his hand and touch whatever he comes at. The original verb is rEvx,u, hence tago or tango of the Latins, 3tid our /owcA,— E. D 2 36 CICERO^S EPISTLES more troublesome. In the next place, supposing him to yield to my solicitations, how can I urge it consistently with fraternal affection ? A dread- ful war is ready to break out upon Syria, and threatens this province, where, supposing the yearly funds to be settled, there is nothing in readiness to oppose the enemy. Will it, I say, be acting as one brother should do by another, for me to leave him in such circumstances, or can I discharge my duty to my country, by appointing an insignificant person for my substitute ? You see therefore how great my difficulties^ are, and how much I am at a loss for counsel. What shall I say? I ought to have had nothing to do with the affairs of this government. How much more de- sirable is your province ; you leave it, if you have not left it already, when you will, and you never are at a loss whom to make your deputy over Thesprotia and Chaonia^. I have not yet met with my brother, so that I know not whether this commission will be agree- able to him, or whether I can prevail upon him to accept of it, and if I should, yet still I must feel some uneasiness. So much for the mea- sure 1 It is easy to perceive, how very studied are all the diffi- culties our author speaks of here. The truth is, his brother had behaved so very ill in his own government, that it was no wonder, if Cicero was afraid he might be thought a very im- proper man for having a fresh command conferred upon him. * These were two estates belonging to Atticus in Epirus^ ^^ Ml TO ATTICUS. 37 sure that gives me pain. All the rest of my conduct hitherto has been full of virtuous glory, and virtuous popularity, and such as docs honour to the author of the books which you so much commend. The cities own me as their preserver, the farmers of the revenue are more than satisfied. No man complains of being in- sulted, and few have even felt the severity of a just decree, nor have they, who do, been heard to murmur. My actions have deserved a triumph, but I will discover no symptoms of ambition for that; nay, not the smallest thought of it, unless you, at least advise me. This finishing stroke in delivering over my province, puts me to a little trouble ; but Providence will conduct every thing for the best. As to the affairs of Rome, you surely know them more fully, more frequently, and more cer- tainly than I can ; and indeed it gives me con- cern, that I did not learn the true state of them from you. For here we have had many disa- greeable accounts concerning Curio and Paulus^; not that I see any great danger, while Pompey is in power, or even though he should be out of power, provided he has his health ; but I am indeed concerned at the fate of my friends Curio and Paulus. I therefore beg that you w^ill transmit 1 They began at this time to be suspected of leaning to Caesar's interest. 3S CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 39 transmit to me a complete account of the re- public, as soon as you go to Rome, if you are not there already, so that I may get it time enough to direct and determine me with what sentiments I am to approach the city; for it is no small advantage for one who comes to Rome, not to be a stranger or a novice as to what is passing there. I had almost forgotten to inform you that I have done every thing, as I have often told you, that could be done, for your friend Brutus. Those of Cyprus made a tender of the money to Scaptius, who refused it, thougli he was offered it with twelve in the hundred^ and the accumulated interest at the end of every year. As to Ariobarzanes, he has not shown more readiness to Pompey on his account, than he has shewn to Brutus upon mine, and yet I cannot entirely succeed for him ; for he is a very needy prince, and my distance from him was so great that I could treat with him only by letters, with which I incessantly attacked him. I have thus far succeeded with regard to money matters. Brutus is on a better footing than Pompey himself ; for the former has this year re- ceived either payment or security for a hundred talents, and Pompey has only received promises of two hundred in six months. The pains I have taken in the affair of Appius, to oblige Brutus, is inconceivable. What What farther remains for me to do? The friends of Brutus are w^orthless. Such are Ma- tinius and Scaptius, who perhaps is my enemy, because I did not grant him liberty to harass the Cyprians, as he did before my arrival, at the head of a squadron of horse ; or because I did not grant him a lieutenancy, which I have never done to any money-broker, not to my friend Caius Venonius, nor to your friend Marcus Leenius. This was a measure I concerted with you at Rome, and I have adhered to it ever since, but what can a man complain of, who re- fused to take his money when offered to him ? I believe that Scaptius of Cappadocia is well affected towards me. When I gave him the tri- buneship, which I reserved for him at the recom- mendation of Brutus, he wrote me a letter, that he did not choose to act under that commission. One Gavius, a hound in the train of P. Clodius, whom I made lieutenant, at the request of Brutus, spoke and behaved very disrespectfully towards me. This fellow neither attended me when I went to Apemea, and upon his coming to the camp, and leaving it, he never asked me for my commands. In short, he manifested, I know not for what reason, a rancour against me. Had I continued such a man in the number of my lieutenants what a mean opinion must you have had of me. I who you know, never bore the insolence of the greatest Roman, could hardly 40 CICERO'S EPISTLES hardly stoop to that of such a varlet ; much less promoted him to honour and profit ? The same Gavius therefore, when he lately saw me at Apemea, on his return to Rome accosted me in a manner that I would not have ventured to address the meanest citizen. Where, says he, do you direct me to receive my salary as prae- fect ? Those who were by, thought my answer too mild for my provocation. I told him, that I never had proposed to give any salary to those, whom I had never employed in any business, and, upon this, he went oft' in a passion. If Brutus suffer himself to participate in the anger of such a scoundrel; I will relinquish my claim to his friendship, and will not envy you his af- fection. But I am persuaded, he will behave as becomes him for the future ; I was willing, how- ever, that you should be acquainted with the whole matter, and I have written a minute ac- count of it to himself He has given me no reply at all ; this however you are not to di- vulge; nor has he adverted to it in his late letter to me respecting Appius, which has the appear- ance of reserve and arrogance. This puts me in mind of what you often used to repeat. Granius did not extend to himself the contempt and hatred^ xvhich he professed to cherish toitards Jiaughty tyrants^. ^ This seems to have been a verse of Lucilius. TO AtTtCUS. 41 But this manner of Brutus raises my mirth, rather than my indignation, though, to say the truth, he is too regardless of what he writes, and to whom he writes. My nephew Cicero, I more than conjecture, read some letter or other, directed to his father ; because he uses to open his fathers letters, and that by permission, lest there should be some- what in them proper for us to know. Now in that letter there must have been somewhat con- cerning his mother that agreed with what you wrote to me. He was wonderfully affected, and complained to me with tears in his eyes. In short, I discovered in him great natural affection, tenderness and goodness of heart, from which I conceive great hopes, that he will turn out ac- cording to all our wishes ; and this I was willing you should know. There is another thing I must not omit. The younger Hortensius^ made a very disgraceful ap- pearance at Laodicea during the shows of o^la- diators. I once invited him to supper on his father's account, and, on account of his father I invited him only once. lie told me that he would wait for me at Athens, and go from thence, in my company to Rome. I answered, '' Very ^ His father was at this time thinking of disinheriting him for his dissolute way of hfe. Our author's sentiments on this head are extremely delicate. 42 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 43 f-f% ** Very well," and indeed it was all I could say ; I believe in my conscience that he had no mean- in^ in what he proposed, and I shall be glad of it, for fear of giving offence to his father, for whom indeed, 1 have a great regard. But if he should travel in my company, I will take care to behave so as to give him no offence, for I am sure it is far from my thoughts. Having said this, I must not forget to put you in mind to send me the oration of Quintus Celer against Marcus Servilius. AVrite to me as soon as possible ; if nothing is passing, let me know so much, though it were by your secretary. Make my complimeats to your wife and daugh- ter, and farewel. EPISTLE VI. On the 5th of June I arrived at Tarsus, where I was greatly embarrassed ; Syria ^ threatened with war ! Cilicia overrun with robbers ! my govern- ment almost expired, and therefore the measures of my administration the more difficult to be en- forced ! * Orig. Magnum in Syria helium. Though I have translated this passage in the same sen^e as Monsieur Mongault has, who observes, that there was no war actually at that time in Syria ; yet I am not satisfied that this was our autlior's meaning, and that he w^as not imposed upon in his intelligence. forced! but, above all, I felt the difficulty of substituting a proper deputy according to the resolution. of the senate. I had heard nothing of Caelius, and my questor Mescinius was the most unfit man in the world for such a charge. The most proper measure I could pursue, was the leaving my brother in command, and yet with what unsurmountable difficulties is that measure attended, my departure, a threatening war, and a mutinous army, and numerous other vexations. Wretched situation ! But these things I will abandon to chance, since I have no time for deliberation. I expect you are now got safe to Rome, and if you are, I hope you will continue your goodness in looking after all my concerns, especially my daughter. When you were in Greece, I wrote to my wife my sentiments respecting her nuptials \ In the next place, I beg you to have some regard to the public honours ' that ought to be decreed to me ; for I am afraid my letters have been but slightly adverted to in the senate, because of your absence from Rome. I shall but enigmatically hint the last thing I have to recommend to you. Your sagacity will enable you to understand me. My wife's freed- man, ^ Orlg. Conditione. * Vi%. Prayers and thanksgivings in public^ for the advanta- ges he had gained in the Parthian war. 44 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 45 man, you know whom I mean, from some in- cautious expressions he let fall, seems to have frustrated the advantages we hoped to have gained from the sale of IMilo's ' goods. I am afraid you do not understand me ; reflect upon it, and do not communicate it to any other. You shall hereafter more fully decypher the sequeP. I dare not at present to be so particu- lar as I could be. Do not you, however, fail to write me as soon as possible, that your letters may meet me. I write this in the midst of my army in a rapid march. My compliments to Pilia, and your charming daughter Ceecilia. EPISTLE V. 1. AM very glad of your safe arrival at Rome, if indeed you be there, before this comes to your hand. For while you were in Epirus, you seemed to me, to be at a greater distance than if you had been at Rome; because I was kept more ignorant of what was doing both in my own affairs, and* those 1 Viz. Milo, who killed Clodius, and was of the same name with the famous wrestler, Miloof Crotona. 2 There is something very particular in Cicero, writing all this not only in Greek, but in so mysterious a manner. It is true his letters were often liable to be intercepted or miscarried, but the reader will see a fuller explanation of the matter in note 2. vol. i. [page 314. those of the public. I hope indeed that before this reaches you, 1 shall be a good way on my road to Rome; but, notwithstanding that, send me frequent and full accounts of all my affairs, espe- cially of what 1 wrote to you before, namely, that I have for some time suspected, from the confused inconsistent talk of my wife's freedman, in seve- ral companies, that he has disappointed our calculations respecting Milo's effects. Do you search into that with your usual sagacity, and the more for the following reason. According to the account which he gave Camillus in the city, on the seven hills, he owed me seventy-two minae, twenty-four of the goods of Milo, and forty- eight of those from Chersonesus ; and though he has drawn upon the estate in two different payments, twelve hundred and eighty minse, yet he has not paid a farthing of my debt, though the whole of it has been now due since the 1st of Fe- bruary ; as to his freedman, of the same name with Conon's father, he gives himself no trouble about the matter. In the first place, therefore, I beg that all this principal may be recovered, and that you likewise will take care of the interest from the day it becomes due. While I suffered him to be here, I was greatly upon my guard, for he came to sound me with the expectation of succeeding. But being disappointed, he abruptly departed saying, '' 1 am going. It would be mean to stay longer here." He then upbrai- ded 4(5 CICr.ROS EPISTLES ded nic with reclaiming what he compelled me to accept\ Let us now see w hat measures we ought to take in other matters. Though according to my calculation, the year of my government is ex- pired all but thirty-three days; yet the trouble- some business of it grows upon my hands. For while Syria seemed to be on the eve of a war", and Bibulus, oppressed as he was, with his own gi'ievances\ was making the necessary prepara- tions to repel it, ; his deputies, and his other friends, requested me by letters, to come to his assistance. Now, though my army was at that time weak, I was indeed pretty strong in auxilia- ries, though the flower of them were drawn from Galatia, Pisidia and Lycia; yet I thought it my duty, while I continued governor of this province, to march my army, as near as possible^ to the enemy. But what gave me the greatest pleasure was, that * The original of this seems to have been a proverb, part of which only is quoted by Cicero. It is found at full length in the Gorgias of Plato, rx ynit ^i^o^Dtx avxyx-n h^saOxi, things given are necessarily received, 2 Orig. Cum enim arderet Syria hello. Bellum must here signify military preparations, because there was then actually no war in Syria. 3 He had lately his two sons, who were killed by the Roman soldiejs, lefrby Gabinius in Egypt, after he had restored the crown to Ptolemy. TO ATTICUS. 47 that Bibulus^ did not trouble me, but rather chose to write to me on other subjects, and thus the day of my departure insensibly steals upon me. When it comes, I have another difficulty to discuss. Whom shall I leave as my deputy ? for I hear nothing certain as yet of the arrival of the questor Caelius. I thought to have made this letter longer, but I am destitute of matter to fill it up, and I am too busy to indulge in hu- mour. Farewel then, and make my compliments to your little Athenian" and my dear Pilia. EPISTLE VL ^V HiLE in this province, I do all the service in my power to Appius. I am all of a sudden become father-in-law to his impeacher ^ " I ''wish, you will say, that Providence may bless the match." I wish so too, and I know you are in earnest in what you pray for. But believe me, that match was so little in my mind, that I sent expresses to the ladies concerning Tiberius Nero, ^ Cicero was at this time ignorant that he was so much hated by Bibulus, that the latter declared he would risk all ex- tremities rather than be obliged to our author for his deliverance. * Meaning the young daughter of Atticus. 'Viz. Dolabella, who was married to Cicero's daughter, thougli not much to the approbation of Atticus. 48 CICEROS EPISTLES Nero \ M ho had made some proposals to me ; but the messengers did not reach Rome till after my daughter's marriage with Dolabella, who, I believe is the better match ; at least, according to my intelligence, the ladies are wonderfully delighted by the polite obliging behaviour of the young man. As to his other qualities, you must not be too particular^ But, have you presented some corn to the people of Athens ? Is this your intention ? As that present was not made as a bribe to citizens, but as an acknowledgment to your entertainers, my treatises do not condemn it. You still desire me to think of the portico of the acade- my, though Appius has given over all thoughts of raising one at Eleusis. I am persuaded you are greatly affected with the death of Horten- sius. My concern, I assure you, is excessive, for I intended henceforth to have lived with him upon the most amicable terms. I have made Cselius my deputy over this go- vernment. You will tell me, he is young, per^ haps, foolish, giddy and intemperate. Be it so ; but how could I do odierwise? I had received many 1 He was afterwards married to the famous Livia, and be- came father to the emperor Tiberius. 2 CcBtera a^aK«v0-?H.v, noli literally, le not desirous to era. dicate his thorns, meaning, you must not nicely scrutmize his vices, which, like thorns, should be eradicated from his chara(> ter.— E. TO ATTICUS. 49 many letters from you, in which you owned yourself to be puzzled in giving me youf advice concerning the deputy I w^as to leave ; and this increased my perplexities. I saw your difficul- ties which were the same with my own, with regard to leaving the government in the hands of a boy; but still it was unreasonable forme to load my brother with it. For I could with no decency prefer any one to my questor (espe* cially as he is a man of quality) excepting my brother. Notwithstanding this, while the empire was threatened by the Parthians, I was deter- mined to substitute my brother, or even to act, for the good of my country, contrary to the re- solution of the senate, by continuing my com- mand here. But their subsequent seasonable retreat put an end to all my doubts. I foresaw what the public talk would have been. What ! He has substituted his brother ! Is this divesting himself of his government at the end of the year? What? Was it not the inten- tion of the senate, that no former governor, should act as governor of a province, in time to come ; yet this Cicero was a governor for three years The reasons I give the world are ge- neral, but with you I.will be more particular. Consider under what perpetual uneasiness I must have lived, lest my brother should have in any other respect shewn himself passionate, arrogant, or indolent. You know to what we Vol. II. E ali u 50 CICERO^ EPISTLES all are subject Then we are to consider that his son is little better than a boy, and a boy who presumes not a little upon his own abili- ties. How grievous this must have been to me, especially as his father would not part with him, and took it amiss that you were of opinion he should. I shall not pretend to say how Caelius will turn out ; but I am sure I am at present under much less concern. You are likewise to consider that Pompey, flourishing as he is in public power, and rooted in the public esteem, made choice of Quintus Cassius, as Caesar did of Antony, and that too without having recourse to lots, and shall I affront the man that has been assigned me by lots and even provoke him to impeach the con- duct of any other person, whom I shall leave a& my substitute ? What I have done is more ad- visable, and more guarded by precedents, and, at the same time, more suited to the repose of my old age. But good God ! into what favour have I brought you witli Caelius? I have read to him letters, as coming from you, though in reality 1 Quintus Cassius and Antony were both of them young men, as well as Caelius was. Cicero therefore had the advan- tage over their principals, that Caelius had fallen by lot to be his substitute, for though the principal might have rejected the substitute, notwishstanding the lot falling upon him, yet still tlaere was less appearance of partiality, than if he had heea chosen through affection or interest. TO ATTICUS. 51 reality they were dictated by me to your secre- tary ^ here. The letters of my friends invite me to a triumph, a thing, in my opinion which I ought not to neglect, now that I am entering upon a new life. Therefore, my dearest friend, do you begin to second, and thereby realize, my desire of that honour. EPISTLE VII. X HE younger Quintus, with great affection has brought about a good understanding between his father and your sister; I urged him indeed strongly to do his endeavours ; but he was, of himself, sufficiently forward ; and your letters greatly encouraged him. In short, I am in hopes that the affair will be settled to our wishes. I wrote you two Greek enigmatical letters before, concerning my private affairs ; and I wish they may have come to your hand. We must not indeed agitate the business ; but yet by asking him, as it were, without any design, concerning Milo's * This was no unusual thing amongst the Romans, and the imposition was very practicable, as they did not sign their names to their letters, Cicero had with him, perhaps, one of his friend's secretaries, whose hands Caelius knew, and there* fore believed the letter to have come from Atticuy. £ s 52 CICERO'S EPISTLES Milo's effects, and by encouraging him' to pro^ ceed, according to the promise he made me, you may gain some advantage. I have ordered my questor Meschinius to wait at Laodicea, in order to leave two copies of my accounts after they are made up, at two cities in my government, as the Julian law prescribes. I intend to go to Rhodes, on account of our boys ; and thence to make the best of my way to Athens, though the wind ^ which blows at this season, is quite contrary. But the truth is, I am deter- mined to be at Rome, while the present magis- trates are in office, for they have greatly be- friended me in respect to the general thanks- giving \ But I beg you will write me beforehand whetlier I ought, upon any public account, to delay my journey. Tyro would have written letters to you, had I not left him, very ill at Issus; though I am told he is much better now. 1 am, however, anxious about him ; for surely never was there a more virtuous, or a more in- dustrious youth. EPISTLE 1 Meaning Philotimus, Cicero's freedman. See epist. iv. and V. of this book. 2 Orig EtesicR, These were a kind of trade winds or mon- soons, according to some authors 5 bat I do not find that they aU-ays blew from one quarter, and we have many express au- thorities that they did not. I have therefore kept to a general term in translating this word. « Meaning the public thanksgivings should be put up for hi» iucc?ess, which was a kind of a prelude to a triumph. TO ATTICUS. 53 EPISTLE VIII. W HEN I had proposed to write to you, and had my pen in my hand for that purpose, Bat- tonius came directly from his ship to my house at Ephesus, and gave me your letter on the last of September. I was greatly pleased with the agreeableness of your voyage, of your fortunate rencounter with Pilia, and to say the truth, with her discourse of my charming Tullia's marriage. As to Battonius, his accounts concerning Caesar were alarming and dreadful; he said more in company with Lepta ; but his representation, as being horrible, is, I hope, exaggerated. He said that Caesar refused, by any means, to disband his army ; that he was backed by the praetors elect, by Cassius, a tribune of the commons, and by the consul Lentulus, and that Pompey had thoughts of leaving Rome\ But, my friend, are you not sensibly concerned for the disappoint- ment of the man, who used to prefer himself, to the uncle of your sister's son ^ ? — By what men has he been baffled ! But as to my own concerns, I have been long detained by the Etesian winds ; and the flatbot- » tomed ^ Part of those accounts were true, and part false, as we shall see in the sequel of these epistles. , - * See vol. i. page 34^, note 3. 54 CICERO S EPISTLES tomed Rhodian boats, have retarded me at least twenty days. On the 1st of October, as I was going on board at Ephesua, I gave this letter to Lucius Tarquitius, who was sailing out of the harbour with me at the same time, but was car- ried by a swifter vessel, while I, in a Rhodian craft, with other narrow vessels, was obliged to wait for fairer weather, and yet I make as much haste as is possible with such conveyances. I feel obliged for your attention to the small debt due to me at Puzzoli. Advert now to the affairs of Rome. Let me know what is your opinion concerning the right I have to a triumph, which I am importuned by my friends to demand. For my own part, I should be rather indifferent about it, did not Bibulus claim that honour, though he lived in Syria, as if he were a stranger in that country, and kept as close at home, as he did when he was consul. If he seek a triumph, surely I might with propriety urge my claim | and now my silence would be dishonourable^ But weigh the whole matter, that, when we meet, we may be able to come to some resolution. I need say no more, since I myself am making all the haste I can to see yoq, and even the bearer of this cannot Orig. ata-x^^* eautiful antiquities. 2 It is a standing reproach to the character of Atticus, that he laid it down as a maxim, to preserve a neutrality durincr all his country^s troubles. Dicaearchus thought this maxim to be scandalous. Atticus had, it seems, thought, Uiat our author would have done better, had he not shown such an extreme impatience to return to Rome, because had he kept by the government of his province, he would not have been copcerne4 in the ensuing troubles of his country. TO ATTICUS. 77 in the senate, that any of us governors of pro- vinces, should continue in them beyond the time marked by the resolution of the house. It is therefore not my fault, if I have not continued in my government as long as, perhaps it might have been convenient for me. But, "what if this has fallen out for the best ?" to make use of a common saying, and, as appears in the pre- sent case, a true one. For whether matters be compromised, or whether the cause of public liberty shall prevail, I would willingly have the glory of contributing to either of these events or have the happiness of profiting by them. But if that cause should fall, I must fall along with it, wherever I may be. I have, therefore, no reason to regret the quickness of my re- turn. Had it not been for that hankering after a tri- umph, which I cherish, and which you too en- couraged, you would have seen in me a model of the patriot, I have drawn in the sixth book of my treatises upon government I need not be more particular with you, who are so much master of all their contents. But I could, with- out the least hesitation, fling from me the thoughts even of that honour, were such a self- denial more laudable. Well, be it so, — since the favour of ^ triumph, and the freedom of my country, are, at this juncture, incompatible. You 78 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO AtTICUS. 79 You are not, therefore, to entertain the smallest mistrust of my preferring honour to glory. « A» to what you think, with regard to its being more advantageous and safe for me, as well as more serviceable to the public, that I should still conr tinue in authority, we will discuss that point when we meet together. For, though I am more than inclined to be of your opinion, yet the thing requires consideration. You do me no more than justice in belieying, that my heart and soul are for my country ; and you form a right judgment that Caesar has not shown sufficient respect for me, whether we re- gard the greatness of my services to him, or the profusion of his favours to others. You have touched upon tlie true cause of ^11 this, and what you write me, concerning Fabius and Cani- nius, is all of a piece. Supposing these things not to be so, and that he had lavished all his friendship upon me, yet, as you mention in your letter ^ the guardian of Rome would have forced me to remember the glorious inscription upon her statue. Never would she have suffered me to have imitated the patterns you propose in the conduct of Volcatius, or Servius" ; no, she would 1 Meaning Minerva, whose statue, Cicero, before his leav- mcr Rome, placed in the capitol with the inscription. Gustos UrhUy the Guardian of Rome. 2 Those two Consulars, like Atticus, kept a neutrality be- tween Caesar and Pompey. P?9 VV'ould have prompted me to think and act like myself. In this resolution I could be soon determined, was there any dispute but between two men, who, at the expence of their country, are now drawing their swords each for power to himself. If they draw them for their country, why was ^he abandoned under the consulship of this very Caesar ? Why was I, whose interest was insepa- rably connected with the safety of my country, abandoned the year following ? Why was Caessar's command prolonged, and why by constitutional means? Why did the struggle become so vio- lent, that tlie ten tribunes of the commons brought in a bill for dispensing with his personal attendance ? These were the measures by which Cffisar grew so strong, that all hopes of oppo- sing him now rests upon one Roman. I wish that so much power had never been giveq him, rather than that he should be now opposed in the possession of it. But since matters are come to this pass, I will not give myself the trouble, which you advise, to inquire, '* which is the safest ships/." I know of one vessel in which i shall embark, and that vessel shall be steered by Pompey. But, say you, what will be your declaration, when 1 Orig. ntou d is so important t" 'he h. ory of that period. What he foresees here actually happened. For MonT and auintus Cassias, who were tj^en tribunes of the tlTe took refuge in Caesar's army, upon the senate s at temp- Stofltethemto withdraw their opposition to a reso.ut.on w4h the house had passed, obliging Caesar to res.gn h,s go- vernment by a certain day. 104 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 105 there cannot be a more dangerous step taken than to make him consul. But, say you, I would prefer that he would become consul without, rather than with, his army. Of that there can be no doubt But it may be thought, that even this alternative is itself a calamity; and a calamity irremediable; for we must live in subordination ^ to his will. Behold him again consul and reflect upon his first consulship ; even then, you v>'ill allow me (though weak to what he is now) he was too powerful for the whole system of our constitu- tion ; what do you imagine will he not now at- tempt ? especially as, while he continues consul, Pompey must certainly reside in Spain. To what a wretched state are we reduced ? If indeed that may be called wretched, to which we are voluntarily brought, and which, if he consent to bring us, would render him highly popular with all the patriots of Rome. Let us, however, suppose, that, as the world believes, he will not rest satisfied with these terms ; what can be worse than the other alter- native? Shall we yiel^, to use Pompey's ex- pression, to all his most impudent demands? For surely they ar^ superlatively so. " You have have had, for ten years, a government, given you not by the senate, but by yourself, through vio- lence and faction. The time limited, not by law but by your own ambition, is elapsed; but supposing by law ; it is resolved to appoint you a successor ; I will not suffer it, say you, and you must dispense with my absence. No, Sir, you ought to dispense with our compliance'. Are you to keep the command of your army lon- ger than the senate has resolved, or the people have ordered ? You shall either yield or figtit," and, to go on in Pompey's strain, *' we shall at least have the honest satisfaction of either con- quering, or dying, in the cause of liberty." Now, if war should follow, its success must de- pend upon chance, and its justification upon its success^ I shall not therefore puzzle you with that question. Let me know if you have any thing to offer, as to what I have here thrown out For my own part I am upon the rack day and night EPISTLE ^ The original as I read it is, Sed istuc ipsum sic, magnum ! malum, putet aliquis. All the commentators have agreed, that this place is corrupted, but I have endeavoured to reduce it into sense by a single stop, without altering the common reading. ' 1 On(r. Hale mei rationem, Hale in nostrum. ^ , . <■ ? Orig. Jam si pugnandum est, quo tempore, in casu ; quof consUio, in temporihus situm est. 106 CICEROS EPISTLES EPISTLE X. JL CAME all at once to a resolution to leave this place before daybreak, to avoid being seen or talked of^ especially as I was attended by laurel- led Lictors \ As to what I am doing now, and what I shall do hereafter, I am at a loss to know. So much I am confounded by this rash, inconsiderate resolution. But how can I pre- tend to advise you, whose counsel I stand in need of myself? What steps our friend Pompey has taken, or may take, I know not ; but as yet he is straitened in his quarters, by being shut up in towns, and looks like one bewildered. If he makes a stand in Italy, we. will all of us join him. But if he retires from thence, I shall be at a loss how to determine myself. Either I am insane^ or he acts with precipitance and insanity. I beg that you will write often to me, though it be only what comes first in your mind. EPISTLE * The reader is here to understand, that Pompey having abandoned Rome upon the approach of Caesar, and having or* dered all the magistrates and senators to follow him, under pain of being declared traitors j our author, who it seems had not yet entered into Rome, thought proper to follow him, though he disapproved his resolution. By his not having en- tered Rome, he still keeps up his title to a triumph and conse- quently his lictors carried their fasces bound about with laurel. TO ATTICUS. 107 EPISTLE XI. W^HAT is the cause of your silence ? What are you doing ? for I am left in darkness. We still possess Cingulum \ say you,— yes— but we have lost Ancona. Labienus has left C^sar. Do you mean Hannibal or the Emperor of Rome? Mistaken, wretched man! insensible to every idea of true glory '1 He pretends that all he does is to maintain his dignity. But can dignity exist without virtue ? Is it compatible with vir- tue to continue at the head of his army, without the voice of the people to authorize him, and to seize cities inhabited by Romans, that he may open himself a more easy passage to the heart of his country r Not to mention the can- celling of the national debts, the recall of the banished ; and a thousand crimes that are yet to be perpetrated before he can rear the temple of tyrannic power, the only deity he worships. I do not envy his greatness. I had rather spend one day with you in the sunny walks of Lucre- turn * This was a town in Picenum. 2 Oricr, ra )taX«. Honesti. I need not point out the beauty of our author's sentiments on this occasion, or how much Mr, Addison has been obliged to him for all the fine sentiments, which he puts in the mouth of Cato. 108 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 10& tum^ than be a monarch over innumerable king- doms acquired by guilt like hisL I had rather die a thousand deaths than harbour such an idea at the expence of my country. You think, say you, for yourself. And is there a wretch who is not at liberty to think? But I repeat it, I think the man who acts in that manner is more mi- serable than the wretch who lies extended on the wheel. There is but one misery beyond it, and that is, succeeding in the attempt. But of this enough. In this melancholy situation, it gives me some relief to unbosom myself to you. But to return to our friend Pompey. . Tell me, I conjure you, by all that you hold dear, what you think of Pompey 's conduct; I mean in leaving Rome? For my part, I can only say, that it was the most absurd of all measures. Would you have left Rome; you could have done no more had the Gauls been at her gates* It is public liberty, he may say, and private happiness, and not walls, that con- stitute our country. I did no more than The- mistocles before me, when the walls of his Athens were too feeble to stand the shock of a barbarous inundation. But Pericles, almost fifty years after, followed another course, when he * Orig. Lucrelino tuo sole, Lucretum was a country seat belonging to Atticus, in the Sabines country, remarkable for its fine air. V he did not possess a foot of ground that belon- ged to Athens without her walls. And our fore^ fathers, when all Rome was lost, retired to and defended her citadel. Such glorious Actions of our Sires are told^ How rich in Virtue were the times of old' ! On the other hand, if I may judge, from the resentment of the municipal cities, and the ge- neral talk, he will be able to extricate himself from the consequences of this measure. I do not know how it is at Rome, and I beg you will inform me ; but here, every body complains bit- terly, that the city was abandoned by her magis- trates and senate, and the flight of Pompey him- self made a wonderful impression upon the pub- lic. In short, it has had a very contrary effect to what we imagined; for now it is the general opinion that no concession ought to be made to Csesar. Tell me what is likely to be the event. My employment here is not very troublesome, for Pompey has appointed me to be an inspector of Campania and the maritime countries, on whom the levying of the armies, and the direction of affairs devolve there. I was therefore thinking to have no fixed abode. I make no doubt that you * bfig. Ovru TTtt ru¥ fr^oirQtv txst'.OofntQx x\ex otv^^u*. I have translated this verse out of the ninth book of Homer's Iliad, 110 CICERO'S EPISTLES you are now perfectly aware of Caesar's hostile designs and\hat you know the sentiments of the people, and the general state of affairs. I wish you would write to me upon all these heads, and that too very often, because they are things which constantly change; and indeed I feel repose when writing to you, or reading your letters. EPISTLE XII. UxLYone letter has come to my hand from you, dated the 19th, and intimating that you had written me another, which I have not received. But I beg you will write me very often, not only what you know or hear, but what you suspect, and above all your sentiments of what I should do, and what I should avoid. As to my infor- ming you, as you desire, how Pompey intends ta proceed ; I do not believe he knows it himself, at least none of us do. T saw the consul Len- tulusat Formiae upon tlie 21st, and I have like- wise seen Libo^ ; but all is full of consternation and confusion. Pompey himself has taken the rout of Larinum, in which place, as well as Lu- ceria, Theanum, and in other cities, of Apulia, he has troops quartered. It is not determined, whether 1 His daughter was married to Pompey 's second sou* TO ATTICUS. Ill whether he will make a stand somewhere in Italy or cross the sea. Should he remain in Italy, I am afraid bis army will be too weak. Should he leave it, I shall be entirely at a loss how, where, or when to act. For as to Caesar, whose- usurpation' you so much dread, I think he will leave nothing bad undone. His progress is not to be stopped by the suspension of all public business, by the absence of our senates-and ma- gistrates, nor by shutting up the treasury. But as you write, the event will be soon known. Having said this much, 1 ask your pardon for writing to you so often, and so fully. But by this my spirits are composed, and at the same time I am willing to induce you to answer me, and above all to advise me how I am to act, and upon what terms to proceed. Am I thoroughly to espouse the cause of Pompey? I am not deter- red, by a sense of danger from doing this, but by ' resentment that all things are conducted without wisdom, and without my sanction ; or should I hesitate to declare in Pompey's favour, and after amusing him by fair professions, side with the prevailing party ? Alas! what would not the public then say ! My character, not only as a Roman, but as a friend, deters me from this. Yet I am frequently overpowered by the anxiety i Orig. 0.»x«?'(r^ov literally; whose imitation of Phalam you dread. 112 CICERO'S EPISTLES anxiety I feel for the interest of our young men. Distracted as I thus am, though perhaps you are not less so, write to me somewhat, and above all, your thoughts in what manner I am to proceed, should Pompey leave Italy. Both Manius Lepidus*, for I have been with him, and Lucius Torquatus, are resolved, in that case to abandon his interest As to myself, I am em- barrassed with my Lictors, amidst many other things; and never did I know so perplexed a crisis. For this reason I do not expect from you certain conclusions, but conjectures, nay, doubts and perplexities respecting the state of afi'airs. It is next to certain, that Labienus has left Cae- sar. In that case, if he had gone to Rome, while the magistrates and the senate were there, he would have been of great use to our party. It would have intimated, that the best of his friends had condemned him as a traitor to his country. The fact is indeed so, but at the present junc- ture it is of less use, because our party cannot avail itself of it, and I believe that Labienus himself repents what he has done. Yet after all, it is possible that his having left Caesar is false ; we, however, depend upon it as a fact. You * He had been consul in the year of Rome 63/, as Torqua- tus was the year following, and tlierefore both of them^ like our author, were of consular rank. TO ATTICUS. 113 You write me, that you confine yourself to your family ; yet still you may acquaint me with the sentiments of the town, whether Pompey is loved or Caesar hated in it; and with your thoughts concerning my wife and daughter, whe- ther they ought to live at Rome, or with me, or in some place of safety? Upon all these sub- jects, and upon any other that occurs, I beg that you will write, or rather that you will scribble to me. EPISTLE XIIT. J. AM entirely of your mind with regard to the affairs of Venonius \ I look upon Labienus to be a hero. We have not, for these many years, had so noble an instance of Roman spirit ; had it no other effect, it has that of galling Caesar; but I am in hopes of seeing it productive of more solid consequences. I am in love with Piso likewise, and I can foresee that the dislike he has signified of his son-in-law's^ conduct, will * He was one of our author*s friends. The business here spoken of was of a private nature, and of no consequence to us. 2 Caesar was married to the daughter of Piso, who was the same Piso whom our author has so bitterly inveighed against in other parts of his works. It seems he had left Rome upon hii son-in-law's approach, as not choosing to join with him. Vol. IL I 114 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 115 will make a great impression on the public^ You may now form a judgment of the nature of this war, which is civil, not because it is occa- sioned by civil differences, but because one des- perate bold citizen has attempted the overthrow of the civil constitution. But then we are to con- sider that he is master of a powerful army, and that many join him from hopes and promises ; his ambition grasps every object. Such is the man to whom Rome, deprived of the means of defence, but stored with riches, has been surren- dered. What have we not to apprehend from a man who looks upon Rome, with all her edifices public and private, not as his country, but his prey? But what, or how, he will do without a senate or magistracy, I am at a loss to know, since he^ has abolished, not only the spirit, but the forms of the constitution^ But where, or when, are we to emerge, headed, as we are, by a general so uninformed, that he was a stranger to the impor- tant situation of Picenum^ His misconduct is a sufficient ^ Orig. Ne simulare quidem poterit quicquam voXinxcai (se» £undum statuta reipuhlicce). ^ Caesar had got the start of Pompey, by making himself master of the country of Picenum, which is at present part of the marquisate of Tovoncono and Abrudso, and lies between the Adriatic sea, Umbriae, and the country of the Sabines ; it, in a manner, covered Rome from Caesar, especially as it was foil Qi strong passes and towns. sufficient proof of his inability. Not to mention the faults he has been committing for these ten long years, what terms were not preferable to his shameful retreat from Rome ? Even at this time I am ignorant of his designs, but I am inces- santly endeavouring to be informed of them by letters. Nothing can be more unmanly or un- meaning than the whole of his management I see no forces, nor any place where forces can !>€ quartered or employed, though it was in order to raise forces, that it was thought proper he should remain near Rome, while all our hopes rest upon two legions that have been decoyed into our service, and are almost hostile to our cause ; for our levies have hitherto been of men who have been pressed into our party, and dread nothing so much as they do fighting. With regard to an accommodation, we have lost the opportunity. What will happen here- after, I cannot foresee. Either we have, or our general has, been guilty of sailing out of harbour without a rudder, and committing ourselves to the mercy of the storm. I am therefore at a loss how to dispose of the two young men. Sometimes I am for sending them into Greece, that they may be out of the way. At the same time, I am filled with apprehensions concerning my wife and daughter, when I reflect upon the approach of barbarians ;^ but I am somewhat relieved when I * C«8ar*s army was full of G^uls. 12 / 116 CICEROS EPISTLES remember that Dolabella is amongst them. I beg you would consider in what manner I am to act in respect to them. In the first place, I am ^o provide for their safety ; for I must take care of them whatever becomes of myself: In the next place, to guard against being censured by the public for leaving them at Rome, at a time when she was abandoned by all her worthy ci- tizens. The same consideration occurs with regard to yourself and Peduceus\ who has written to me ; for both of you rank so high, that as much will be required of you as of our most illustrious citi- zens. But that is a consideration I must leave to yourself, as I am now applying to you for advice concerning myself and my family. What I have farther to recommend to you is, that you will do all you can to discover and inform me of what is passing, and of what you apprehend will come to pass, which I cannot dispense with in you. Any one can tell me what is doing ; from you, I expect to learn what is to be done. He is the best prophety who conjectures weW. Par- don my loquacity, which, while I am writing to you, sooths my anguish, and at the same time, invites you to give me an answer. P.S. * Sextus Peduceus was a common friend to our author and Atticus. * This is a verse of Euripides. Mtft»T-«-' -^^^-^'Ce- thing to fear from his nval C«sar Your fnen ^ ^^^ ting, has proved your enemy, and l«^serv- o ^^^ has hitherto been an enemy, y""™**' ^ h« still the friend the more bitter, as Cicero knew Att.cus to be st lUhe of Pompey, and ^rhaps of his ^^ ^J; ^,^. and feehlc'^B* ^ f 126 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS 127 own the compliance does now come with so good a grace, after the government has been attacked, and hostilities commenced, as it would have done before, when he demanded the dispen- sation with his absence, while he stood for the consulate. After all, I am apprehensive, that even those terms will not satisfy him. It was no good symptom that he continued his opera- lions during the discussion of the treaty, which he committed to Lucius Caesar, and before he had any answer. At present, he is said to pro- ceed more violently than ever. Trebatius indeed writes me, that, on the 22d of January, Caesar charged him to let me know by a letter, that he would take it as the highest favour if I would return to Rome, for such is the substance of his letter, which is very long; I understood, by what I could learn of every day's proceedings, that, from the moment Csesar heard of our departure from Rome, he began to use his endeavours to induce the men of consular rank to return. I have therefore no doubt of his having written to Piso and to Servius \ I am surprised at one thing, that he has neither writ- ten to me himself, nor employed Dolabella or Caelius to treat with me. I am however far from disregarding the letter of Trebatius, who I know to ^ This was Semus Sulpicius, who was thought to be ia Caesar s interest. ** to have a sincere regard for me ; for I returned him an answer (as I had no mind to write to CiBsar, without his first writing to me) shew- ing him that what he requested was next to im- practical at this juncture, but that I lived on my own farms, and concerned myself neither with public levies nor public business. The truth is, I intend to continue in this situation, till all hopes of peace are over. But should the war continue, I will begin by conveying our boys to Greece, and then I will act with a spirit sui- table to my duty and dignity ; for I hear that all Italy will soon be involved in the flames of war ; Such calamities are brought upon us partly by profligate, and partly by envious, citizens ! But we shall know what turn affairs will take in a few days, when we receive Caesar s reply to our answer. If the issue should be war, I will write you more fully, and if a cessation of arms, I hope to see you in person. On the 2nd of February, I write this letter from Formise, having come hither from Capua to meet the ladies. It is true, that upon the strength of your information, 1 had written them not to leave Rome : But I understand that the pannic is increased in the city. On the 5th instant I am to be at Capua, by order of the consuls. Whatever news Pompey shall bring us, I will instantly impart it to you by letter. Meanwhile, lam ' 12S CICEROS EPISTLES I am impatient to know your sentiments upon all these matters. EPISTLE XVm. kJn the 2nd of February my wife and daughter came to Formiae, and informed me of all your very obliging behaviour,* and good offices in their behalf. I am willing they should continue at Formia3, togctlier with the two young Ciceros, until we know whether we are to embrace a disgraceful peace or a destructive war. On the 5rd of February (the date of this letter), I set out with my brother to join with the consuls at Capua, where I am ordered to be by the 5th. We hear tliat the people were wonderfully plea- sed with Pompey's answer, and that it was ap- proved of in an assembly. I always thought it would ; and that Caesar m ould lose his interest should he reject it. But should he accept it — Alas, say you, which is the lesser evil? This is a question I cannot answer, unless I know in what forwardness our preparations are. It was reported here that Cassius was driven from Ancona*, and that our troops were in pos- session of the city. This will be an important service if a war should follow. It is certain, that ^ This news war false. TO ATTICUS. 129 that Csesar, even upon dispatching Lucius Caesar with his proposals for an accommodation, has carried on his operations with greater vigour than ever, by seizing posts, and forming a strong line of garrisons. What a ruffian, what a robber he is? Can any peace compensate for this wound given to our country's honour ? But let us leave off railing, I must temporize and go with Pompey to Spain. This is the only choice that is left me, amidsf those public calamities which have be- fallen us for not guarding ' our country, while it was in our power to have done it, against the se- cond consulship of Caesar. But of this enough. I forgot to write to you about Dionysius ; but my scheme was to wait for Caesar's reply, so that Dionysius 1 The original here has divided some of the greatest critics. Hcec opto in malts; quoniam illius alterum consulatum arepuh- lica, ne data quidem occasione, repulimus. Manutius and Cor- radus think that Cicero here blames his party for wantonly op- posing Caesar, when all he sought was to be consul a second time. But this, though it agrees with the original, is said by Gronovius, not to agree with Cicero's expressions in the ninth epistle of this book, and with the political principles he lays down in his offices. It is, however, certain that our author never mentioned Caesar's being a consul a second time, in any other light, but that of a lesser evil 5 and as to the political principles laid down in his philosophical writings, we are to look upon them only as so many problems, which he seldom or never carried into practice, or mentioned when writing to a friend like Atticus. Vol. II. K 130 CICERO'S EPISTLES Dionysius might attend me at Rome, if I should return to that city. But if that reply should be postponed for any time, I was to have invited him hither. I leave it to yourself to say how it becomes a man of learning and a friend to be- have to one in my situation, especially when I request his attendants, — But this perhaps is ex- pecting too much of a Greek. If I should be obliged contrary to my wishes to send for him, I will leave you to sound him, for I do not choose to trouble him against his inclination. My brother Quintus does all he can to get money from Egnatius to pay you. Egnatius wants neither will, nor abilities, for this ; but the circumstances of the time are such, that Quintus Titinius, who is frequently in my company, pro- tests, that he cannot defray the expences of tra- velling, and is obliged to give notice to his deb- tors, that the interests of their principals shall run on at the same rate as before. Lucius Ligus is said to follow the same course. The truth is, my brother at this time has no money by him ; he can get none from Egnatius, nor can he bor- row any elsewhere; and he is surprised^ that you have no regard to his distress, which is in common with that of the public. For my own part^ ^ This confirms what we have observed before of Atticus, that he knew very well the value of money, which he thought the first instrument of pleasure. TO ATTICUS. 131 part, though, (especially when you are concerned, whom I know to be considerate in all your steps,) I observe the maxim' erroneously ascribed to Hesiod, I mean, that of hearing both parties, yet I could not help being moved with his com- plaints. I thought proper to lay the whole of the matter before yourself. EPISTLE. XIX. I REALLY am so far from having any thing to write, that I have withdrawn a letter which I wad to have sent you, because it was so full of hopes for the best, founded upon my information of the dispositions of the assembly of the people at Rome, and upon my own suggestions, that Cffisar would never reject the terms that were granted him, especially as they were proposed by himself. Meanwhile, on the morning of the 4th of February, I received letters from you from Philotimus, andFurmius, with one to the latter from 1 Orig. urSt J'xw. Neque causam supple itt&ot»erw, prius- quam quid uter que dixerit, audieris. This maxim appears to be the same in import witli one in use among the Hebrews; which on one occasion was used by our Lord : /*n xf<»«Ti k»t .4.,,, axxa r,. S,x«,., xf <^.. x{-..«. Do not judge from partial appearances but let your deciskm be the result of cool unbiassed investigation, '•"^E* 132 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 133 from Curio, ridiculing the whole of Lucius Caesar's negociation. We are now reduced to a desperate pass. What to resolve upon I know not, I do not mean with regard to myself, but to the boys. I am, however, now setting out for Capua, where I can be better informed of Pom- pey's situation. EPISTLE XX. L HE occasion requires but a few words. I de- spair of peace. We are unprovided for war. You cannot imagine two more despicable crea- tures than ogr consuls. After coming, as I was ordefed, to Capua, through a deluge of rain, upon the 4th instant, in hopes of hearing and witnessing our preparations, they were not come here ; and when they do come, they will come un- provided and unprepared. As to Pompey, he is said to be at Luceria, to put himself at the head of some cohorts of Atticus's legions, who are thought to be wavering. We are told, that Caesar proceeds in a very rapid manner, and that he is advancing apace, not with an intention to tight (for he has no body to fight with) but to cut off oitr retreat. For my own part, I am de- termined (nor will I consult even you upon that matter) even to die with Pompey in Italy. But should should he leave it, what am I to do ? The ap- proaching winter, the incumbrance of my lictors, the indolence and oversights of our generals, are so many arguments for my staying behind. My motives, on the other hand, for flying, are, my friendship for Pompey, the cause of my country, and the shame of following a tyrant, who leaves us at a loss to conclude whether he will propose Phalaris or Pisistratus' as the model of his con- duct I beg you to extricate me by your advice out of this labyrinth. I know, you are at a loss how to proceed yourself; but still give me what x:ounsel you can. If to-day I hear any thing new, you shall know it, for the consuls will surely be here by the fifth, it being a day of their own appointment You will write me an answer to this when it is coilvenient I have left the ladies and the young gentlemen at Formic. EPISTLE XXI. Being nearer the source of our misfortunes than I am, you must hear of them first lean send you nothing from this to comfort you. I arrived at Capua, by the orders of the consuls, on the 5th 1 Pisistratus overthrew the liberty of Athens, but ruled with great justice and humanity. Phalaris was a Sicilian usurper, and ruled with great inhumanity. Y|., J 134 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. iu 5th of February, where Lentulus arrived late in the evening of that day. The other consul was not come on the 7th, on which day I left Capua, and lay at Calvi, from whence, on the 8th, I write this letter before daybreak. The accounts I picked up at Capua were, that we are to have no dependance upon our consuls, and that we have nowhere any levies. Our recruiting officers dare not shew their faces, as well on account of Caesar's being near them, as of our general ap- pearing nowhere, and making no efforts. No body has even enlisted, but this is not owing to want of attachment to the cause, but to the des- perate state of our affairs. Our friend Pompey^ is now a contemptible thing, below all idea of wretchedness, without spirit, without resolution, without interest, and without industry. I shall not dwell on his dis- honourable flight from Rome, his abject ap- plication to the towns of Italy, his ignorance, not only of his antagonist's strength, but of his own. But how can you reconcile to common sense what I am going to tell you ? On the 7th of ^ Our author has his cold and warm fits towards this great man, and he becomes, by turns, his admiration and his contempt. It is, however, but doing Cicero justice to distinguish between the person and the character of Pompey. All the littleness he here mentions might be true as to his person, but still as he ac- ted in the character of his country's general, our author's at- tachment to him is very justifiable and \ery reconcileable to ihc duty of a wise and an honest great man. of February, the tribune Caios Cassius came to Capua, with Pompey s orders to the consuls to return to Rome, which they were immediately to leave, after carrying off the money which yas in the sacred treasury*. Ruturn to llomel- Under whose protection ? Return from Rome ? —How shall they obtain leave? One ot ih6 consuls wrote back word to Pompey, that he should first make himself master of Picenuiii. But 1 There was somewhat extremely absurd in Pompey's con- duct in leaving this treasure to Caesar's mercy at Rome. U had been long collecting in the temple of Saturn and was not to be employed but «pon the last exigencies of tl>e state, such as an invasion of the Gauls. This treasure had three sources the first was the plunder of the conquered nations, the second was the twentieth penny which was paid ad valorem for every slave that was manumitted, and the third was the ordmary re- venues of the public. Though Pompey, as I have obsen-ed before, was too apt to refine upon his conduct, and generally used a crooked path when a strait one lay before h,m, yet he seems to have succeeded beyond his expectation in h.s measure of abandoning Rome, which strikes our author wuh such amazement. For it awakened the public to a sense of .ts own danger, and the Romans were struck with horror, winch brought them into action, when they saw the first man of a,e.r counlry hunted from place to place. His refinement, however, of leaving behind him his sacred treasure was not so happy. It is plain, that, either he thought C«sar would not touch .t, or if he did, that the detestation of the public would do Inm more prejudice than the treasure would do him ser^■,ce. But this was reasoning very weakly, as the event showed, and as Pompey found too late; for Cssar, had by this time actually seized the money, and did more than Pompey himself mtended to do. 136 CICERO'S EPISTLES But all Picenum was by this time lost without our receiving any information of its loss, but by a letter which Dolabella sent to me. I expect every moment to hear that Cssar is in Apulia, and Pompey embarked. I am very doubtful what course to pursue. I could be in no such perplexity, but for their shameful con- duct; nor indeed was I consulted in any one measure. I will, however, act as becomes my character. Cfesar himself advises me to set about an accommodation, but his letters were •written before he had made his rapid progress : I am informed by Dolabella and Cslius, that I am greatly in his favour. My inability to determine is a torment to me. I beg you will give me all the assistance you can by your advice, without neglecting, so far as you are able, to mind my affairs at Rome. I have nothing farther to write amidst this general consternation. I am impatient to hear from you. EPISTLE XXII. V/^SAR is now master of all Italy. I know no- thing of Pompey, but I believe his retreat will be cut off unless he has already embarked. How incredibly rapid have been the movements of Caesar ! How dilatory those of our friend ! But I am averse to reflect upon the man whose condition grieves and torments me. You have TO ATTICUS. 137 some reason to apprehend a proscription and a massacre, nftt that these are necessary to forward the conquests or establish the power of Caesar; but I can perceive by whose counsels he is directed. ' Let us hope, however, for the best I am of opinion that I must abandon these towns. I am at a loss what to do. Do you act as shall appear best to you for my interest You may talk with Philotimus, and my wife will be at Rome by the 13th. But how am I to proceed ? Through what seas, through what lands am I to follow a man, without knowing where he is? By land how can I overtake him, and how can I reach him by sea ? Shall I then surrender my- self to Caesar ? Supposing, as many assure me, I could do it with safety, can I do it with honour? By no means. What then am I to resolve upon r I fly, as usual, to you for advice. My difficul- •' ties » Our author's judgment of measures seems all along to have beenmuch morejustthan his judgment of men. He^^asonsvej accurately, and his conjectures are generally verified ; but b^ characters are neither true nor consistent, as we have observed on various occasions. Nothing could be more d.stan from the truth than what he hints of C«sar, who the least of all mankmd was susceptible of any sanguinary influence, and m public mat- ters always judged for himself. It is true, he sometimes made ui of very bad men under him ; but they were generally such as could do his b.isiness, nor did he ever sutler them to be guilty of any excesses, and even h.s favourite Antony some- times severely felt the effects of his displeasure for h.s extra- vagance. tl.^V'^-^^.-:^illllv'hat money he may require for his charges. EPISTLE VL After making up my last packet, which I finish- ed in the evening, and which I was to send off, as I did, before daybreak, the praetor Caius Sosius, came to pur neighbour Lepidus, to whom he had been questor at Formiae, with the following copy of a letter from .J^ompey to one of the consuls. " I received a letter from L. Domitius on the " 17th of February, of which 1 enclose you a '' copy. Now, though I had not written to you, " I know you are sensible, how important it is *' for our country, that as soon as possible, there should be a general muster, at one place, of all *' our forces. Therefore, if you please, you will *^ make all possible dispatch to join me, and " leave at Capua, such a garrison as you shall "judge sufficient" He tlien annexes a copy of a letter from Do- mitius, which I sent you two days ago. Immor- tal gods ! how my blood runs cold with anxiety for Vol. II. M < »i f-'i 11 * I (I 162 cicer6'S epistles for the event \ I feel, however, a great confi- dence in the mighty name of our great general \ and in the terror which his approach will strike into the enemy. I am even dad, as I have suffered nothing from his measures, that I have not altered mine. I just now learn that your ague has left you ; I feel most assuredly in your recovery, the same lively pleasure, which 1 should have experienced in my own. Tell Pilia from me, that it is im- proper for her to preserve her complaint any longer, and unsuitable to the sympathy that sub- sists between you. I understand that my secre- tary Tyro is also recovered. But, I perceive he has borrowed money from others, and not from Curius, on whom I gave him credit for what he should want. I .hope this is owing to the modesty of Tyro, and not to the unkindnes» of Curius. EPISTLE VII. X HERE remains but one measure to complete the sum of Pompey's disgrace, I mean, his not succouring Domitius. I am, it is true, almost single in thinking that he will not Will Pom- pey, 1 This with the following passages are miserably defaced irt the origiDal, and I have translated it from conjecture only. ttff^'.m^m^-'' TO ATTICUS. 163 pey,"Tnen, when he is at the head of thirty bat- talions, abandon such a Roman, and the noble- men, who, you know, serve under him ? If I am not entirely mistaken he will. His consternation is incredible, and he thinks of nothing but flying. ' I know you think, that I ought to attend him. Alas ! I know the man I ought to fly ; but not W the man I ought to follow. You mention with applause a saying of mine, which you think out^ht to be recorded, that I would rather choose to be vanquist|ed with Pompcy, than to conquer with Caesar. T am still of the sajne mind. But it was with Pompey, such as h^ then was, and such as I took him to be, but not with this Pom- pey, who fled before he knew where, or whom, he was flying; who betrayed our mterests, who has abandoned our country, and is now about to abandon Italy. If that was my choice, I have had it, for I am already vanquished. In short, I cannot bear to see things I never apprehended, nor, indeed, can I behold with patience, the man by whose means I am robbed, not only of the comforts of life, but of myself. I have written to Philotpaus, concerning my tt-a- velling charges, that he should receive the money for them, either at the mint, or from your guests, the Oppii, for there is no getting money where it is owing. I shall afterwards lay before you whatever may be proper for you to know. Mg £PlJiTl.S s i f m Mffismm^^ S iwmmm 1^4 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE IX. UisGRACEFUL, and therefore miserable, mea- sure ! for I am of opinion, that what is disgrace- ful is the last, nay the only, character of misery. — He^ augmented the power of Caesar; of a sudden, he begins to fear him; he discourages all advances for an accommodation; he^neglects all preparation for -war ; he abandons the city ; his misconduct loses Picenum; He pins himself up in ApuI^^Phe prepares to withdraw into Greece ; he abandons us without even taking his leave of us, or giving us any intimation of such important, such unusual measures. Behold a let^ ter is unexpectedly delivered him from Domitius, and another from him to the consuls. You would then have thought him impressed with all that wjs honourable, and he appeared to exclaim in a language becoming his character, " Let my " enemies assail. me with all their strength and ** all thdr mifPlifllations ; honour is on my silte, " md r\vill abide by ilie events" Of these ho- nourable * Meaning Pompey. ^m wtr lit tfjLOi rexratna-^ofv . tp tv fxtr* tfjuu. ^erses^ with little variation, are taken froni'Aris^ tophaoct. ^ A ' '' 1 .1 ^ ^ TO ATTICU& 165 hourable sentiments notwithstanding, he soon takes his leave, and marches for, Brundusium. We are informed, that when Domitius, and those under his command, heard of this step, they sur- rendered themselves. A catastrophe so deplo- rable, that my sorrow interrupts my writing. — I expect to hear from you. i *3 1:1 ■I EPISTLE IX. r X AM by no means uneasy at the information you give me, that my letter ^ has been made pub- lic. I myself parted with a great many copies of it. Past events, and our impending situation^ make me desirous to bear my public testimony for the terms on which I wish an accommodation. While I w^as doing all I could to bring a man, and a man too of Caesar's character, into the same sentiments, could I take a more ready way to influence him than by insisting upon it, that what I proposed was a measure the most becoming his wisdom ? Granting I might give it the epithet of '' Admirable," it must be con- sidered iV j 1 Meaning his letter to Caesar, which tlie reader will find after the ekventh letter of the ninth book. I have not altered the usual arrangement of these letters, but this one is evidently misplaced, and in a regular order it ought to have been pre- ceded by our autiior's letter to Cassar here referred to. '■'mmmmissmm' 166 CICERO^ EPISTLES sidered, that I was speaking to serve my country ; in such a cause I can disregard the reproach of servility ; in such a cause, with pride could I throw mvself ac the feet of Caesar. As to the expression. ** Allow me some time ;" that is not applicable tc ihe accommodation, but to my own person, t( induce him t > have some regard to what becoiiies my clviracter. As to my assuring him chat I was again all violent measures; be- sides th*^ notoriel}^ of the things it was proper for me to write in that manner, tiiat my private sen- timents might havj the grcab:r weight with him ; and for the same purpose I added, that 1 thought he had tlie better cause. Bit to what purpose is all this ? I w ish to heaven that the letter had taken eft'ect. I even consent that this letter should be read before an assembly of the people, feince Pompey himself, in one of his letters to Caesar, which he published, characterized his achievements as the most glorious that ever were performed ; more glorious than those of Pompey himself, than those of Scipio Africanus. This was but using a language, which the exigencies of the time required. Even your friend and you, firm patriots as you are, proposed to meet Caesar five miles out of town. From whence then is Ceesar coming ? What is he doing ? What is he about to do ? What spirit, what resolution will it give him in pursuing his designs, when he shall see you, ^ * • TO ATTICUS. 167 you, and others of your high quality, crouding to welcome his approach, with joy, not only upon your tongues, but in your countenances ? Am I then in the wrong ? I do not say that you are \ But the truth is, every criterion is now con- founded, by which it is possible to distinguish what is sincere from what is disguised. Nay, let me appeal to the resolutions of the senate. But this is going farther than I intended. The last of this month I design to be at Arpinum, and then I will saunter round my little villas, with a design to bid them an eternal adieu. I approve greatly of your measures, which are at once generous' and prudent, considering the times. As to Lepidus, who takes it very kind of me, that I generally spent tlie day with him, he was always against our leaving Italy, and TuUus was much more so. For the letters which Lepidus addresses to others, are often shewn to me; but I pay no regard to their sentiments. They have made to the republic fewer sacrifices than » I have translated this somewhat different from Monsieur Mongault, as I think my construction is more natural, there being no occasion for introducing an apostrophe, rising either from the words or the sense. 2 This probably was the beginning of another letter, and ought to have the precedence ot what is before, as it seems to have been written at that time, when both Pompey and Cxsar were on their march to Brundusium, and the preceding part not till after Caesar's return from thence. 168 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 1$9 tlian I have. But your advice, has, indeed^ made a strong impresssion upon me, as it pre- sents me with the means of retrieving all that is past, and improving all that is present. But think, my friend, what can be more wretched, than for one leader to acquire applause in the vilest, while the other incurs reproaches in the best, of causes; for the one to be esteemed as the preserver of his enemies, the other as a deserter from his friends. Though Pompey shall ever receive from me the tribute of sincere affec- tion, as justly due to him, yet I will acknowledge^ that his desertion of his illustrious friends, has, with me, forfeited every claim to praise* Wlial could be more scandalous, if he was afraid, or what more cruel, if he believed, as matny think he did, that their blood would prove the strongest cement to his interest? But no more of this sub- ject, reflection upon it gives me pain. On the evening of the 24th, the yoqnger Balbus called on me in his way to Lentulus the consul, to whom he brought secret dispatches from Caesar, by the cross road to me, with great haste, and with the promise of a province, if he would return to Rome ; but all* 1 believe, will be to no purpose, without a meeting on both sides. Bal- bus told me, at the same time, that Caesar wished for nothing more than to overtake Pompey, and to regain his friendship. The former I readily believe, but cannot help discrediting the latter ; and and I am afraid, that he has shown all this cle- mency to make the dreadful blow the more se- cure. It is true, the elder Balbus writes to nie, that Caesar's highest ambition is to. give PompejT the preeminence, and to live with him in peace. You may, perhaps, believe this. Pompey might have left Brundusium by the date of this letter, which is the 25th of February, for he had marched with great expedition, hav- ing left his legions at Luceria. This man is a frightful prodigy of vigilance, dispatch^ and ap- plication. Where all this will end, I am utterly ignorant. EPISTLE X. W HEN contrary to liiy expectation, Dionysiu^ came to wait upon me, I gave him my sentiments with great freedom. I laid before him the ne- cessity of the times, entreating him to tell me what he had resolved upon ; and told him, that I desired nothing of him against his inclination. His answer was, that he was quite a stranger to the state of his own afiairs ; that some people did not pay him, and that the notes of others to him were not yet due ; and he spoke somewhat con- cerning some slaves he has, as a reason why he could not attend me. I acknowledged tlie jus- tice I M 170 CICERO'S EPISTLES tice of these reasons ; and parted with him, not with pleasure, as he is the tutor of our boys, but not with reluctance, as he is an ungrateful man. I was willing you should know my opinion of his behaviour. EPISTLE XL if You imagine that my mind is much agitated. I am indeed, distressed, but not so much as you may luppose. There is an end of care, when our resolution is fixed, or when our concern is un- availincr We have still freedom enough to la- ment Tnd lamentation consumes all my days, and that without effect, to the reproach, I am afraid, of my studies and learning. I therefore, waste the tune in dwelling upon the idea of that man, whom you allow, I have drawn so happily m my writings. Are you quite master of the character of that patriot, in whom should be vested the highest powers of thestate? For if I remember right, Scipio thus speaks in the 5th book, As "a happy voyage is the purpose of the pilot, « health of the physician, and victory of the ge- "neral, so the purpose of a chief magistrate « ought to be the happiness of his countrymen, « that their power may be well founded their ** interests TO ATTICUS. 171 *' interests extensive, their renown noble, and ** their courage virtuous. Such is the office, '* the best, the most glorious of all human offices, that I allot for my patriot prince. Never did our friend Pompey, and on this oc- casion less than ever, think upon this character. Botn are rivals in power, but not for making this a flourishing and virtuous government. Pompey did not abandon Rome, because it was untenable, nor Italy, because he was driven out of it; but his original design was, to move earth and sea, to rouse barbarous monarchs, to introduce the troops of savage nations into Italy, and to levy numerous armies. He wishes to renew the ty- ranny of Sylla, and in this wish many concur with him. Do you imagine, that these two rivals can come to no accommodation r That they can i^ter upon no agreement ? They may, but now or never is the time ; though neither of them has our happiness ultimately in view, for that is in- consistent with the interests of both. Thus I com- ply with your desire in giving my opinion on the afflicted state of tlie republic. And this, I deliver, my friend, not like the prophecy of Cassandra, when none believed, but as probabilities, which, though calamitous, are likely to be realized. A ruin hangs over us equal to the^destruction of Troy; and another Iliad will be requisite to de- scribe i-i i7i CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 173 scribe it^ They wha are gone beyonff sea, are, I assure you, in a much better situation than we who stay behind. They have only Caesar to dread, but we both Caesar and Pompey. Then, you will say, why did not you follow them ? I have three answers to this; compliance with your advice, my not meeting with Pompey, and the rectitude of the measure. I teH you again, that by next summer, you will see the bosom of our wretclied country trampled under feet, you will see it sink- ing under the oppression of the vilest slaves* No, I do not so much apprehend a proscription, with which we were so often threatened at Lu- ceria* as an universal massacre. So great, I foresee, will be the conflict of the contending parties. This is my opinion. You, I suppose, ima- gined I should send you some comfort No, that is all over ; our situation is wretched, desperate, and shameful beyond description. You 1 It is not practicable to give a tolerable translation of the original in this place without deviating considerably from the letter of it. I subjoin the author's own words, of which the above version only exhibits the general spirit. U^oBscnr^^, igitur, noster Attice, non ariolans, ut ilia cui nemo credidit, sed conjectura prospiciens, Jamque mari magno. Non multo in- qnam, 'secus possum vaticinari : tanta malorum impendet. IXms. — E. -J 11 « Pompey often declared that he would consider all the Romans who did not join him, as so many traitors to their counto', and Caesar, that he would consider all who remained neutral, as friends to himself. % 4 If You ask me concerning the contents of Caesar's letters to me. The purport of them is the same with what he has often repeated. He expresses his satisfaction that I take no active part with Bompe)^, and begs me to continue in the same disposition. The commission given to Balbus was much to the same purpose, but his chief er- rand was to carry Caesar's letters to the consul Lentulus, w^ith mighty promises, if he would re- turn to Rome. I calculate, however, that Len- tulus must have set sail beforeBalbus could reach him. I think it proper you should be acquainted with two cold letters, which Pompey wrote to me^ and the very particular manner in which I wrote gto him. I therefore enclose you copies of the .whole correspondence. I am impatient to know the consequences of Caesar's hasty march through ^Apulia, towards Brundusium, and wish it may terminate, like the inroads of the Parthians, in a repulse. I will write to you, as soon as I know any thing for certain. I desire you will let me know the sentiments of our patriots, who are said to swarm at Rome. I know that you do not ap- pear in public, yet for all that, you must have a great deal of intelligence. ' Norw that I think of it, you have rec^ved a treatise from Demetrius Magnes, concerning public unanimity. I know it was sent to you, and I beg you will let me have it You i^ 174 CICERO'S EPISTLES # You understand what is the subject of my pre- sent studies. THE LETTERS ENCLOSED FROM CICERO ATTICUS, ARE AS FOLLOW. ^ Cno^us the Great, Proconsul to Marcus Cicero, Commander in Chief, On the 29th of January, I learned from Quin- tius Fabius, who came to me, that Lucius Do- mitius was marching to join me with eleven cohorts of his own, and fourteen cohorts, which were brought him by VibuUius ; that he intended to march from Corfinium on the 14th of February, and that he was to be followed by five cohorts under Caius Hirrus. My opinion is, that you should meet me at Luceria ; for there, I think, jou will be in the greatest safety. Marcus Cicero, Commander in Chief, to Cno^us the Great, Proconsul. ittSk On the 15th of February I received your letter at Formiae, by which I learned that what had happened in Picenum, was much more to our advantage, than what we were made to be- lieve, and it is with pleasure that I give you joy of the courage and conduct of VibuUius* TO ATTICUS. 175 Hitherto, I have always had a ship in readiness upon the coast where I command. I thought this precaution necessary, because, by what I heard, and what I feared, it was proper to fol- low you in whatever course you determined to pursue. At present, as your authority and wis- dom have inspired me with fuller confidence, I will remain where I am, if you think Tarracina and its coast can be defended ; but the towns at present are without garrisons. For there is in the neighbourhood, none of our order besides Marcus Eppius^ whom I had stationed at Min- turnae, a vigilant active person. For Lucius Torquatus, a brave and a wise man, is not now with us at Formiae. He has, I suppose, joined you. I actually came to Capua that very day you wished for, I mean that on which you left Tea- iium Sidicinum^, for you had a strong desire that I should take upon me the management of afFaira there, with the propraetor Marcus Considitft^ When I came thither I saw that Titus Ampius was active in recruiting, and that Libo received from him his new levies, and was at great pains to serve * He was probably the same senator whom Caesar pardoned, ^fter his victory over Scipio in Africa. * This town lay in Campania, and is called to this day, Teano. ' He was named to succeed Cassar in his government of tbe Cisalpine Gauls. 1 176 ClCftOS* EPISTLES serve him with all tlie interest he had in that colonv. I remained at Capua as long as tlie consuls did, and by their orders, I returned to Capua on the 5th of February, where I staid for three days, before I returned to Formiae. I am ignorant of the measures which you have determined, and of the manner in which you in- tend to conduct the war. If you think this coast tenable, as I believe it to be, as it is both conve- nient and honourable, and contains many illus- trious Korfians, some person must necessarily be appointed to command it. But if all our forces are to be'' collected into one point, I will join you, without farther delay, with the greatest pleasure; and, 1 think, I told you so mucli the day on which we left Rome together. Should any ima- gine me too tardy on this occasion, it would give me no concern so long as you are not of that opi- nion. Meanwhile, if, as I expect, war will be unavoidable, I hope to give you and all others fall satisfaction. I have employed Marcus Tul- liusS whoKves with me, to be the bearer of this, and,' if you please, you may return by him your answer to me. \ Cnaus I He was so active an enemy to Caesar, that he was called the trumpeter of the civil war notwithstanding which, Caesar r f TO ATTICUS. 177 Cnaus the Great, Proconsul to Cicero Commander in Chief, Y OUR letter gave me pleasure, and I hope that this will find you in good health ; for I perceive you still retain your former virtue, even at this juncture so critical to our country. The consuls have repaired to the army, which I had in Apulia. I conjure you in the most earnest manner, by your constant, your matchless, zeal for our country, to repair to me, that, by our joint counsels, we may administer some relief, and assistance to our languishing government. My advice is, that you come by the Appian road, and make what speed you can to Brundusium. generously pardoned him Marcus Cicero , Commander in Chief , to Cnaus the Great, FroconsAL W HEN I dispatched that letter, which you received at Canusium \ I had no suspicion, that the public service was to carryyou beyond sea; and I was in great hopes that Italy was the most pro- per country, either for effecting an accommoda- tion, which^ in my opinion was the most desira- ' ble ^ This town lay upon tlie confines of Apulia, Vol. II. N '\ 178 CICERO'S EPISTLES blc measure, or for defending oi,r country «ith the greatest glory. Meanwhile, before you could have received my letter, perceivmg from the order which you charge Deems Lalms , to communicate to the consuls, what your reso- lution was, I did not think proper to wait for vour answer, and I instantly set out with my brother Quintus. and the children to meet YOU in Apulia. When I came to Teanum Sidi- cinum I understood from your friend Caius Messius', and many others, that C^sar vvas marching towards Capua, and that he would lay that very night at Esernial This, I own d.s- concerted me a good deal, foreseemg, it this in- teUi<^ence were true, that my journey not on y inust be stopt, but that I must fall into his hands should 1 advance farther. 1 thcrctore went to Calvi to reside there, till I could learn some certainty from Escrnia, conccrnmg his motions. While I remained at Calvi, I saw a copy of the letter you wrote to the Consul Lentulus. 1 thereby learned that you received a letter (a copy of which you subjoined) from Lucius Domittus dated the 17th of February, and you wrote riia it was of the utmost public importance, that all j9ur troops should rendezvous, a? soon asjos^- 1 He afterwards commanded a_acel upon tl.e coast of Asia,, 2 He is mentioned, vol. i. p. 2/4. » This town lay in the country of the Samn.tes. near the source of the river Volturuo. TO ATTICtJS. 179 sible, at one place ; leaving a sufficient garrison at Capua. On reading thos^ letters I fell in with the generalopiuion, that you were to march to Corfinium with all your forces j to which place I thought I could not safely repair, as Csesar was encamped before that town. While we were greatly at a loss how to proceed, we heard at once, and at the same time, both what had happened at Corfinium, and of your marching to Brundusium, and when both I and my brother were resolved to go to Brundusium, we were cau- tioned by those who came fromSamnium and Apu- ha, to take care lest we should be intercepted by Caesar, who was upon his march for the very same places to which we were bound,* and who would reach them much sooner than we possibly could. Matters being thus situated, neither I nor my brother, nor any of our friends chose! through rashness, to endanger either ourselves or the public cause, especially as we knew, for certain, that, supposing the road to be quite open, we could not come up with you. Mean- whde we received your letter from Canusium. dated the 20th of February, requiring me to make tlie best of my way to Brundusium. As I did not receive this letter till the 27th, we con- cluded that you were before that time at Brun- dusium and conseq^.ently that our communica- tion with that place, was entirely cut off, ^nd that we were as much prisoners as they who Vent to Corfinium ; for we did not think that a ' N2 ,^^^ I* tii .1 ■ 180 CICERO'S EPISTLES state of captivity is confined to the condition of those who are actually in the hands of armed enemies, but that it extends to those who are m the heart of a country, surrounded by the gar- risons and the posts of an enemy, and thereby prevented from the possibility of escape. This being our case, my chief wish was, that 1 had always been in your company. A wish which I intimated to you wh«n I declmed the command of Capua, which I did not to avoid trouble, but because I was sensible that that city was not tenable without an army. Now I was unwilling to undergo the fate, which I am sorry has happened to some of our bravest countrymen. However,* as I had not the good fortune to be with you, I wish I had known your resolution. For I could have no manner of suspicion, and it would have been the last thing I could have thouivht of, that the cause of our country could not have been maintained in Italy under your command. In this I do not reproach your con- duct, but 1 bewail the fate of our government ; neither do I think your conduct to be the less admirably wise, because I am unacquainted with it motives. ' j t u r I have always been of opinion, and I believe YOU may remember it, that we ought first to have attempted an accommodation, even on disadvan- tageous terms ; and next to use all means for the . security of the city. Of your intention to withdraw TO ATTICUS. 181 into Italy you never gave me the least intima- tion. But as I was not vain enough to think that my opinion ought to have prevailed, I followed yours, and that not for the sake of our country, of which I despaired, which now lies in ruins, and which cannot be raised again without a most destructive civil war. But I was attached to you; I desired to be with you, nor shall I omit any opportunity, if any presents, for that purpose. During this emergency, I obviously perceived that I gave great oftence to men who delight in Wood. For my open profession, and first wish was peace, not but that I apprehended the same consequences from it, as they did, but still I thought that those were preferable to a civil war. After this, when hostilities commenced, and when you had answered punctually and honour- ably the terms of accommodation that were offered to you, I took a review of my own con- duct, which, honoured as I was by your partia- lity for me, I thought I could easily justify to you; I recollected that I was the only person whose signal services to our country, had ex- posed him to a melancholy and cruel punish- ment ; that I was the only person who must again be exposed to the like conflicts, should I exas- perate the man to whom, even when we were in arms against him, a second consulship and the most glorious triumph were offered. Thus the profligate citizens appear to have always hoped to 182 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICU& 18S to find in me a commodious subject of the popu- lar fury. No sooner did I apprehend this danger than it was openly announced to me ; nor was I so fearful of encountering these difficulties, if en- counter them I must, as 1 was anxious to avoid them, if I could avoid them with honour. You now see the plan of my conduct during our short prospect of peace. Since then our sit- uation has put it out of my power to engage in active service. To those whom I disgust, I have a ready answer, that I never was a greater friend to Caius Caesar than they are, nor are they bet* ter friends to their country than I am. The diffe- rence between them and me is, that as they are sincere patriots, and as I have some pretensions to that character, I was for embracing the terms to which I understood you inclined, but they chose to appeal to the sword. As their senti- ments have prevailed, believe me, my conduct shall be such, that my heart shall never be want- ing to my country as a patriot, nor to you as a friend. EPISTLE XII. T HE humour in my eyes incommodes me now- more than ever. Yet I chose to dictate this let- ter, rather tlian not entrust our very good friend Gallius Gallius Fabius with a letter for you. It is true, I wrote, the day before, in the best manner I could, the prophetic letter which I earnestly wish may not be verified. But I write this let- ter, not only because I am resolved not to omit a day without writing to you, but for a much better reason, that I may prevail with you to take a few moments, (and I know it will not cost you more) for laying before me your undisguised sentiments, so that I may fully understand your plan of conduct. ' I am as yet under no engagements to either party. I have hitherto taken no steps but what are, not only plausible, but prudent. I cannot surely be blamed for declining the command of Capua in its defenceless condition, because I wished to avoid not only the tardiness of the new forces, but the suspicion of treachery. Neither was I to be blamed, after an accommodation was pro- posed by L. Caesar and Fabatus, for not exaspe- rating the man, to whom, after the commence- ment of mutual hostilities, Pompey offered the the consulship and a triumph. Nor is even the last part of my conduct in not abandoning my country justly reprehensible. For though it was a measure that required consideration, yet it was out of my power to pursue it I could not have supposed that Pompey designed to pass the sea, especially as by his own letters, you, as well as I, made no doubt of his marching to relieve Do- mitius. r;. 184 CICEROS EPISTLES f mitius. Upon the whole, I frankly own, that I wanted farther time for considering the conduct that was most honourable in itself, and most pru- dent in me, to follow. In the first place then, though you have slight- ly given me your sentiments, yet I require them more fully upon these matters. In the next place, I desire that you would look a little for- ward, and form to yourself some idea of what is most becoming for me to do ; where or how I can do most service to my country ; whether the pacific disposition of a mediator may still be availing, or whether all hopes rest only in the abilities of a warrior. For my own part, my duty is my only standard of conduct ; but yet well do I remember your counsels, and had I fol- lowed them I should have escaped the embar- rassment of these times. I remember, and I remember often with anguish of spirit for neg- lecting the advices you gave me by Theophanes and Culeo. Well then, let us turn back to the pages we then overlooked, let us adopt salutary as well as honourable measures. But I leave you to your own thoughts, which I desire you to write me very particularly. I beg likewise that you will inform yourself, and I know you have the proper agents, what my friend Lentulus, what Domitius are doing, or about to do ; whether they blame, whether they are angry, and reproach a certain person ; — I mean, TO ATTICUS. 185 mean, whether they reproach Pompey, who lays the whole blame of the miscarriage upon Domi- tius, as you may perceive by his letters of which I send you copies : These are the particulars I recommend to your care ; send me the treatise of Demetrius Magnes upon unanimity, of wliich he made a present to you. Cnaus the Greats Proconsul, to M. Marcellus and Lu- cius Lentulus, Consuls^ wisheth Prosperitj/. JjEiNG persuaded, that while we remained scat- tered, we could ^either serve our country nor defend ourselves, I wrote to L. Domitius, that he should make all haste to join me with his whole force ; and if he had any apprehensions with regard to himself, that he should send me the nineteen cohorts, which were upon their march, to join me from Picenum. It happened, as I dreaded, that Domitius was surrounded, without having with him forces sufficient for a regular encampment ; my nineteen cohorts, and his own twelve, being quartered in three diffe- rent towns, for he had quartered some of them at Alba, and some at Sulmo ; 4ior, indeed, could he escape should he attempt it. This event you may easily imagine fills me with the grea- test alarm. At the same time, that I earnestly desire M 186 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 187 desire to deliver so many illustrious Romana from the danger of being besieged, it is impos- sible for me to relieve them ; because I judge it unsafe to march the two legions I command here into those quarters ; and of these two legions, I can bring together no more than fourteen co- horts, having thrown a garrison into Brundusium, and taken care of Canusium, which I did not think proper to leave without a sufficient force to defend it. As I was in hopes that our army would grow stronger, I charged Laslius, with a request, if you thought proper, that one of you should repair to me and that the other should go to Sicily with _ • • • the troops you have raised at Capua, or m its neif^hbourhood, and with the levies of Faustus ; and' that Domitius, should join them with his twelve cohorts; that the rest of the troops should assemble at Brundusium, and conveyed in trans- ports from thence to Dyrrachium. Now^ as thincTs are circumstanced, I am no more able than you are to relieve Domitius, who cannot escape by the IMountains. We are to take care, that the enemy shall neither come up with those fourteen wavering cohorts, nor overtake me in my march. I therefore think proper, and I am joined in sentiments by Marcellus, and the other noblemen of our rank in this place, to march the troops I command here to Brundusium. I there- fore request you, to make all possible dispatch to join join me there, with as many troops as you can get together. ]\Iy opinion is, that you give to the troops you have with you, the arms you pro- posed to send to me, and if any remain, it will be advisable to send them in waggons to Brundu- sium. I beg, that you w ill give our friends ad- vice concerning the matter. I have sent you to require the prastors P. Lupus and C. Coponius to join me, and to resign to you the command of their forces. Cnaus the Great, Proconsul, to Domitius^ Proconsul, wisheth Prosperity, X AM surprised at my not hearing from you, and that all my public intelligence comes through other hands than yours. With forces so dis- united as ours are, it is impossible for us to be a match for our enemies ; but were they united, I am in hopes we may yet be the means of saving our country, and our own persons. Therefore, as VibuUius wrote me, on the 9th of February, that you was about to march from Coriinium to join me with your army, I cannot comprehend why you have altered your resolution. The rea- son VibuUius intimated to me, namely, that you had intelligence of Caesar's march from Firmum to the castle of Truentum, was by no means satis- factory ■*< i* n 188 CICERO'S EPISTLES to ATTICUS. 189 f factory. For the quicker the enemy's advances towards you were, your dispatch ought to have been the greater to join me, before Caesar could have the means of either obstructing your march, or of cutting off my communication with you. I therefore, in the most earnest manner, repeat to you my former orders, to take the very first op- portunity of marching to Luceria, before the troops, which Caesar proposes to draw together, can intercept our communication with one ano- ther. Should any endeavour to persuade you to remain as a guard to their properties, you cannot in justice refuse to send me the cohorts which came from Picenum and Camerinum, and which have left behind them all their fortunes. Cnaus the Great, Proconsul, to Domitius, Proconsul, uisheth Prosperity/. m M. Calenius brought me a letter from you the l6th of February, informing me, that you in- tended to observe Caesar's motions ; and should he direct his march to me by sea, that you would speedily join me in Samnium ; but should he tarry in this neighbourhood, that you would resolutely oppose him, in case he should attempt to extend his quarters. I am sensible this resolution pro- teeds from your courage and magnanimity ; but we we must be upon our guard, lest our being di- vided may give the enemy a superiority, as his army, which is already strong, is hourly in- creasing. It is inconsistent with your wisdom, to have an eye only to the number of cohorts, which C^sar at present commands against you, without' reflecting upon the great force both of cavalry and infantry, which he will in a very short time assemble. The letter I received from Bus- senius, is an evidence of this fact ; for he tells me, and his intelligence is confirmed by my other correspondents, that Curio has drawn all the garrisons out of Umbria and Tuscany, and is marching at their head to join Caesar. Now, should all those troops join, so that part should be detached towards Alba, and part of them de- file towards you, the consequence will be, that you will not be able to attack, and the enemy, in order to succeed, need only to act on the defen- sive ; neither can you singly, in the face of such forces, send out parties to maintain or to forage your army. I therefore, again, earnestly con- jure you, speedily to march all your, troops to this place. The consuls have come to the same resolution. I ordered Metuscilius to acquaint you, how necessary it was for me to take care, that the two legions should not, without the Picentine battalions, come in sight of Caesar's quarters. You are, therefore, to give yourself no concern, if you 190 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 191 Ih you shall hear, that I retreat, upon Caesar s ad- vancing against me. I must take care not to be surrounded; for, both the season of the year, and the disposition of my soldiers, render it impracticable for me to form a regular encamp- ment; nor would it be advisable for me to draw all our garrisons from the fortified places, lest I should be cut off from all retreat. I have,' there- fore, assembled no more than fourteen cohorts at Luceria. The consuls are either to join me with the troops they have drawn from the fortified towns, or they are to go to Sicily. For we must either have an army strong enough to force our way through the enemy, or we must take posses- sion of such passes as they cannot force. Now, faeither of these expedients is practicable for us at this juncture, both because Cajsar is master of trreat part of Italy, and because our army is neither so well provided, nor so numerous as his. We are thereibre to be tlie more cautious of exposing our country. I again and again conjure you instantly to join me with all your troops. We may yet restore the government, if we act in concert with another; but by being xiissipated, we shall become weak ; such are my sentiments. P, S. When I had finished this letter, Sica de- livered to me your letter and coumiission, exhort- inc£ me to march towards Corfinium. But that, X think, is what I cannot venture to do, especially as as I put no great trust in the fidelity of the legions I command^ Cfiteus the Great, Proconsul, to Domitius, Proconsul, zoisheth Prosperity, Your letter of February 17th came to my hand, informing me of Caesar's having encamped before Corfinium. I foresaw, and forewarned you of what has happened ; that as things now stand, he would not venture to fight you, and that he would draw together all his force, to surround .you, and to obstruct the communication between yoii and me, and to prevent your joining the well afifected troops you command, with my suspected legions^ Your letter alarms me the more, because I cannot stake the whole fortune of our country upon the loyalty of the troops that serve under me, nor am I yet joined by those the consuls have levied. I therefore recommend it to you, to do all you can, if it is now possible, to disen- gage yourself, and immediately to join me before the enemy's junction can be completed: for our liew recruits cannot march time enough to this rendezvous, and though they were already come up, ^ These were the two legions we have already taken notice of, which Pompey obliged Caesar to part with under pret^ce of serving against tlie Partijians, 192 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS: 193 m up, you are sensible how little dependence there is upon raw men who are strangers to one ano- ther, against veteran legions'. EPISTLE XIIL The assistance of my amanuensis, and the short- ness of this letter sufficiently intimate, that the deflu*jc of my eyes still continues; and yet, indeed, I have, at present, nothing material to write you. All my hopes rest upon the accounts from Brun- dusium. If Cffisar has had an interview with our friend Pompey, I shall still entertain faint hopes of an accommodation ; but if the latter has passed the sea without seeing him, I am appre- hensive of a most destructive war. Are you not now sensible, what a discerning, what a vigilant, what a resolute leader the commonwealth has to contend with. Indeed, if he were to abstain from massacre and rapine, he would become the favourite 1 If we are to form a judgment of Pompey's conduct by what our author writes of him to Atticus, he must have been a very bad as well as a dastardly soldier. But in fact, he was nei- ther. If he had not so great a genius as Caesar had, he shewed himself to have a true judgment in the mechanical part of war. The reasons which he gives in this letter for his conduct, are undoubtedly very solid, and must have been admitted to be so ^y our author, had he not been unreasonably prepossessed agiiinst Pompey's person. favourite of those who dreaded him most. I have had a great deal of talk with the towns- men, and a great deal with the country gentlemen in these quarters; and take my word for it, they halve no concern but about their lands, their farms, and their monej^ You see to what a pass things are reduced. They fear the man they trusted; they love the man they feared. It is with anguish, that I recollect the miscarriages and misconduct that have brought us to this. Thus have I given you my sentiments upon what we are to expect; and I aiA now impatient for your answer. » v EPISTLE XIV. 1 HE letters I daily send you are, doubtless, irksome to you, as they give you no fresh matter of information, and as I have now no new sources of reflection. But it would be ridiculous in me to send you couriers with blank letters, finding, after all the pains I take for information, that I have no subject to write upon. Now I cannot bring myself to omit the opportunity, offered by my own servants going to Rome, without send- ing you a letter. And let me tell you, I find some ease amidst my trouble, in conversing, as it were, with you ; and much more in reading Vol. IL O your >{ 194 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 195 your letters. The truth is, ever since all this hurry and consternation began, we have not had a period so destitute, as this is, of all matter for writing ; both because there* is nothing new at Rome, nor here, though we are two or three days journies nearer Brundusium than you are. As to Brundusium, the success of these first ope- rations will depend upon the blow that is to be struck there. I am tortured with anxiety about the event ; but we shall have more early intelli- gence than you. For, I perceive, thatPompey set out from Canu- sium the morning, and Caesar from Corfinium the afternoon, of the same day ; that is, on the anni- versary of the Feralia\ But Caesar marches with such rapidity, and quickens the movements of his soldiers with such bounties, that I am afraid he will reach Brundusium sooner than we could wish. Then, you will say, to what pur- pose should you anticipate uneasiness about an event, that you must be certainly informed of in three I This was a feast in honour of the infernal gods, or the Dii Manes, and in our author's time, it was celebrated on the 2l8t of Februaryi It seems to have obtained so universally amongst the ancients, that the custom of carrying dishes of victuals to the graves of dead friends, (from which custom the feast took its name) continued in the times of Christianity 5 and I am not sure, that it is, even at this time, quite abolished in some parts of Christendom. three days ? Why, that is true ; but as I have already said, I love to converse with you. You must know, at the same time, that I am now wavering in the resolution which I thought had been entirely fixt. The precedents which you approve of, have not weight enough to deter- mine me. Shew me a bold action performed bjr any one of the men you quote for their country hitherto ; and how are we to look for any glo- rious resolution from them hereafter ? Nor, in- deed, do I think those men are to be mentioned with applause, who, in order to carry on the war, have crossed the sea, though, it is true, Caesar's proceedings are intolerable. For, I foresee, what a dreadful, what a pernicious war this will prove. But there is one man who influences me, the man whom it becomes me to attend in his flight, or to join in his attempts to retrieve the constitu- tion. What say you, will you never fix to one point ? Indulge me my friend ; I commune with you, as I do with my own heart, and is it not na- tural for every man in so critical a situation, to be irresolute and fluctuating ? I am desirous at the same time to elicit your sentiments ; if they are still the same, they will fix me ; if they are changed, I will agree with you. It is absolutely necessary for me, before I can come to a fixed resolution, to know what mea- sures Domitius and our friend Lentulus will take. We have different accounts concerning Domitius. O g Sometimes ■i\\ / m CICtRO^S EPISTLES Sometimes that he is at Tiburtum, the house of Lepidus', and that he is to set out with Lepidus from thence ; but this too I perceive to be a false report. For Lepidus reports, that Domitius has retreated along bye-roads, though he is uncertain whether to conceal himself or to escape by sea. He knows nothing of the younger Domitius. To this he adds another grievous event, namely, that the elder Domitius had a considerable sum -of money seized at Corfinium, which never was re- turned him^ As to Lentulus, I hear nothing concerning him. I beg you would inquire after these matters, and write to me what you can learn. EPISTLE XV. s the 3d of March, Egypta delivered to mc fcopies' of several letters from you. The first was dated the 26th of February, which you say, Vou gave to Pinarius, and which I have not seen. ^ " In ^ i The original here is irretrievable, so that I must supply it by conjecture, .".« Tliis seems not to have been true j for Caesar himself as- sures us (in BeUo Civili, Lib. i. cap. 22.) that he restored to Domitius all his money, though he knew it had been given him by Pompeyj for paying his soldiers. < Orig. Epistolas mihi tuas. They seem however only to have been copies. TO ATTICUS. 197 fo that you tell me, that you are impatient con- cerning the success of the commission with which Vibullius* is charged ; but is certain, that Vibullius was noteven seen by Caesar, (I perceive, by your next letter, that you know this last circumstance to be true) and that you are impatient to know in what manner I shall receive Caesar upon his return. I am, you must know, by all means, determined to avoid him. I think vou are in the right in your resolution" to retire to your estate in Caonia, and to alter your sphere of life. You say, you are ignorant whether or not Domitius^ has declined his badges of authority. When you do, let me know. . So much for your first letter ; your two next, which came to my hands, both of them dated the last of February, have quite unhinged my former resolution, which, as I wrote you before, was then wavering. I am not moved by your expres- sion, that Pompei) is so tnragtd^ as not to spare even ^ He was one of those who were taken prisoners at Corfi- nium, and, notwithstanding what Cicero says here, Csesar cer- tainly saw him (Vide Bell. Civ. Ibid.) and very probably charged him with such a commission as is here mentioned for Pompey. 2 The original here is incorrigibly corrupted. 3 He was entitled to have lictors, and tlie badges of authority, by being named to be Caesar's successor in the government of the Transalpine Gaul. If he dismissed that distinction, it was a sign that he approved of Caesar's pretensions, and would have been an excellent excuse for our author to have done the same. 198 CICERO'S EPISTLES even Jupiter himself. For our danger is equal from the resentment of either party. Victory does not incline to the side of justice, but to - Ceesar, whose superior promptitude commands success. Even the conduct of the consuls makes no impression upon me ; for they are as easily moved as a leaf, or a feather. What I owe to myself and my country, is the con- sideration that gives me, and has given me, all my pangs. Caution clearly requires my re- maining in Italy, but the voice of honour seems to call me to leave it ; and I am sometimes in- clined to prefer, that the many should reproach me for want of caution, than that the few should blame me for want of honour. As to what you inquire concerning Lepidus and TuUus, they have agreed without any hesitation, to be at CjBsaf s devotion, and to assist in the senate. Your last letter is dated the 1st of March, and in it you wish for an interview, and do not despair of an accommodation between Caesar and Pompey. But, in my present way of thinking, I cannot believe that there will be any interview, or if there is, that Pompey will agree to any terms. You make no doubt that I can be at po loss, in what manner to determine myself, should the consuls abandon this country; that they will do this is beyond all doubt, and it is probable they are already gone. But you are to remember, that, excepting Appius, every great officer TO ATTICUS. 199 officer of the republic who attends him, has the right of leaving the country. For every one of them has either a command that authorizes him to do so, such as Pompey, Scipio, Setenas, Fannius, Voconius, Sestius, and the consuls them- selves, (whose commissions, in the terms of our ancestors, allow them to vfsit any province in the empire,) or they are lieutenants to those who bear such commissions. But on this I will be si- lent ; I understand your sentiments, and I am now at little or no loss concerning my own duty. This letter should be longer were I able to write with my own hand ; but I am in hopes of recovering in a few days. I send you a copy of a letter from Balbus Cornelius, which I received the same day with yours, in which you will see how much I am to be pitied, when he thus presumes to insuH my understanding*. Balbus to Cicero, Commander in Chief, wisheth Prosperity, I CONJURE you, my dear friend, to undertake the important office so suitable to your talents and virtue; of reconciling Caesar and Pompey, and, divided as they now are by the treachery of evil 1 In endeavouring to make him berieve, that Caesar was well .disposed to an accommodation with Pompey. I'-.'- 200 CICEROS EPISTLES evil disposed persons, of uniting them in their former harmony and friendship. Caesar, believe me, will not only submit to your decisions, but will even own himself indebted to you in the highest degree, if you will attempt this reconci- liation. Had Pompey but the same disposition. — But it is rather my wish than my belief, that, at this juncture, he can be brought to any accom- modation. But should he suspend his retreat, and recover from his consternation, I should then begin to hope that he would be greatly influenced by your counsels. With your opinion, that the consul Lentulus ought to remain in Italy, Caesar is well pleased; to me, I aver, it affords the highest pleasure. For xnj respect and affection for that consul equal those I feel for Caesar himself Had Lentulus indulged me in my usual familiarity with him, had he not again and again avoided conversation with me, I should, this hour, have been less unhappy than I am. For you are not to imagine that any thing gives me greater pain at this time, than to see the man I love beyond myself, a consul with- out the badges of that oflice. But should he in- cline to your admonitions, should he trust me concerning Cesar's sentiments, should he pass the remaining time of his consulship in Rome, then should 1 begin to hope that the authority of the senate, your motions, and his mediation, might effect a reconciliation between Pompey and TO ATTICUS. 201 and Cffisar. Were this to take place, I should no longer feel anxious to continue in life. I know you will approve of Caesafs beha^ viour^ at Corfinium. Nothing surely could give him greater advantage upon such an occasion, than to prevent the smallest effusion or blood. I am extremely pleased to think that the visit of our common friend Balbus was so agreeable to you. I know that he will substantiate every thing he has said concerning Caesar, and every thing that Caesar haJ? written, whatever ma^ be the event EPISTLE XVI. X HAVE now got every thing ready, excepting a secret, and a safe, passage to the Adriatic sea; for it is impossible for me, at this season of the year, to pass by the Tuscan. But, by what means shall I arrive at the place to which my wishes and my circumstances point ? For my dispatch must be quick, lest some incident should distract and impede me. It is not Pompey, as is generally supposed, who influences me : he is a man whom, for a long time, I have judged to be void of all political. ^ Fix. The unparalleled clemeqcy with which he used his conquest. 202 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 203 political, and I judge him now to be no less void of all military accomplishments. It is not, I say, he who influences me, it is the public talk of which Philotimus informs me in his letters. For he tells me, that I am reprobated by the men of rank, wfio, indeed, have no claim to this longer distinction, as having flocked around Caesar, and sold to him their lives and fortunes. The municipal towns regard him as a divine being, but without the insincerity they shewed/ when they offered up public prayers for Pompey's recovery. But as much merit has been made of the mischief, which the second Pisistratus has not done, as if he had prevented its being com- mitted by another. People hope from the cle- mency of Caesar; they fear from the wrath of Pompey. What concourse from the towns to meet Csesar ! What honours they pay him ! They fear him, pu tell me. I believe they do, but not, indeed, so much as they do Pompey. They are charmed with the insiduous clemency of the one, and daunted by the implacable re- sentment of the other. I, every day, see some one or other of the eight hundred and fifty judges\ who were devoted to our friend Pompey, and * These judges had been named by Pompey. Three hun- dred of them were of the senatorial order, and the rest were knights, or commissioners' of the treasury. and who are terrified by some fulminating edicts at Luceria, of which I have no knowledge ^ Let me therefore ask you, who these men of quality are who are for forcing me away, and yet can remain quiet in their own homes ? But, who- ever they are, I am afraid of public censure.* Yet I am sensible what I am to hope from those to whom I am going, and that I am about to join a man who bids fairer to plunder than to conquer Italy. What then do I look for? On the 2d of March I look for some news from Brundusium. But what kind of news ? The shameful manner in which Pompey has fled from thence, and the progress and marches of his conqueror. When I shall hear any thing certain, if Caesar should come by the Appian road, I will retire to Ar- pinum. CICERO'S ^ He publidy declared that he would hold all neutral per- sons to be traitors to their country. 2 Orig. ailioyMi T^uxs. I fear the Trojans. Cicero here in» timates, that the censure of the aristocratic party, in the peace and security of. their own houses, was as unreasonable as that which the Trojans, who were secured within the walls, would have passed upon Hector, had he, in compliance with the en- treaties of his wife, declined any longer to exert himself in behalf of the city. — E. .1 li r ■ ' « " CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK IX. EPISTLE I. JL HOUGH, by the time this letter came to your hand, I imagine I may know what has past at Brundusium, (for Pompey went from Canusium the 2d of February, and I write this on the 7th of March, the fourteenth day after) yet I am tortured by impatience to know* the event of every hour. I am surprised that I have not heard so much as a rumour from that place, — Surely this silence is very unaccountable. But perhaps I now torture myself to no purpose. But it cannot be long before the pains of suspense terminates. There is another thing which gives me pain. I can. 206 CICERO S EPISTLES can, by no means, learn where our friend Len- tulus, and where Domitius are. 1 want to know, that 1 may the more easily learn how they intend to proceed ; whether they are to join Pompey ; and if they are, which way, or when ? At pre- sent I hear that the city is crowded with men of quality ; and that Sosius and Lupus, whom our friend Pompey thought would be at Brundusium before himself, act upon the Praetorian bench at Rome\ The people flock from this place to Rome, and even Manius Lepidus, with whom I used to spend the day, thinks of repairing thi- ther to-morrow. As to myself, I shall, that I may be nearer the source of information, remain at Formic, and then I design to go to Arpinum, from thence to set out for the Adriatic by the jnost private road, having first quitted, or en- tirely dismissed, my Lictors. For I hear that a great many men of honour, who now serve their country, and who have often greatly served her before, are disgusted with my lingering here, and that they reflect with severity upon my conduct, especially when they sit down to their seasonable meals % We * This news appears to have been false. * Orig, Multaque in me, ct severe in convivih tempestivis quidam disputan. The whole passage appears ironical. These worthy patriots censured his conduct, while they did their coun- try no other service than talking of political measures over their feasts^ TO ATTICUS. £07 We will then go. To merit the character of Patriots, I will invade Italy by land and sea, and rekindle, against myself, the hatred of the wicked, which was before extinguished. In §hort, I will be guided by the counsels of Luc- ceius and Theophanes\ For Scipio can excuse himself either by his appointment to go to Syria, or by the honourable plea of standing by his son- in-law, or by fear, for avoiding Csesar. As to the Marcelli, they would have staid in Italy, but for the dread of Caesar's arms. Appius is influ- enced by the same motive, and by some later cause§ of disgust he has given to Caesar ; and all the rest, himself, and Caius Cassius excepted, are lieutenants ; Faustus is proquestor ; and I was the only one who have the liberty of choice. My brother will attend me, though it is hard tliat he should be the companion of my fortunes as Caesar will be more particularly incensed against him. But I cannot prevail with him to stay behind. Well, we will repay Pompey all that we owe him ; for no consideration, but that of his person, influences me; not even the talk of feasts, virhich came always in its season, without reflecting on the hardships of those, who without sufficient food and dothing were engaged in the actual services of war. — E. 1 These were two great confidents of Pompey. The reading here is rather extraordinary, for our author puts Theophani as the genitive. ©fcXheophanes. Several instances of the like kind •ccur. I \ CICERO'S 'EPISTLES / 20B of those who arc patriots only in name ; nor the cause itself, the conduct of which is as mar- ked with cowardice, as its end must be ruinous. Such is the sacrifice I make to Pompey, and to Pompey only, and that without solicitation, though he says that he fights, not for himself, but for his country. I am impatient to know whe- ther you are determined to remove to Epirus. EPISIXE II. Though I looked for a long letter from you, on the 7th of March, which, if I mistake not, is the day of your confinement, yet I write this in answer to the short line which you wrote me the 5th, some time before your fit You tell me YOU are very well pleased at my remaimng m Italy and you continue still in your former sen- timents. Now I understood, from your former letters, that you were positive as to my sailing, if Pompev should carry any considerable force out of Italy, and if the consuls should attend him Can this be owing to your forgetfulness, to my misunderstanding, or to a change in your opinion ? But I shall either know your real meaning, by the letter which I expect from you, or learn it by a subsequent one. We have yet no news from Brundusium. TO ATTlCUi 205 kow difficult, how desperate, is my situation ? How very minute you are in laying its particu- lars before me ; but how vague in explaining your sentiments as to the conduct I ought to fol* low ? You compliment me upon my not going along with Pompey, and yet you hold forth the disgrace of being present in the senate, where I could not, with decency, approve of any mea- sures which shall be proposed against him. Then surely I must throw myself into the opposition. May heaven, say you, guide you. What then can be done if the one measure is attended with guilt, and the other with punishment You will obtain, say you, from Caesar, a liberty to be absent, and to live at your ease. Must I then petition him for such a liberty ? How wretched! What if I should not obtain it. — • You will tell me likewise, that I shall thereby preserve my claims to a triumph. But, what if Caesar should press me to accept of it Shall I accept of it? That would be disgraceful. Shall I refuse it? He will then think that I have aa aversion for all he does, more than he formerly did in the case of the twenty commissioners \ In exculpating himself, he usually throws on me all the errors of those times, and tells me, that I had such an aversion to him^ that I would not even 1 See vol. i. p. 113. Vol. II. oiO CICERO'S EPISTLES even accept of a place of honour under him. But how much more will he now be exasperated as the honour of a triumph is more glorious, and he himself more powerful ! , , . . t You tell me, that you make no doubt that 1 am out of all favour, with Pompey, at this time. I can see no reason for that, at least, if we con- sider circumstances. After he had lost Corfini- um, he imparted to me his resolution ; and will he blame me for not coming to Brundusium though CjEsar lay betxveen me and that town ? In the next place, he is conscious that it very ill becomes him who is so much in the wrong to reproach others, and he knows that I saw fartiier, than he did, into the weak state of the municipal towns and the newly raised armies ; that I wa. right in the advice 1 gave on the sub- jects of accommodation, the city, the public money, and gaining the possession of Picenuiii. But if, when I am at liberty, I should not at- tend him, then is his time for being my enemy. That, however, would give me no pain on ac- count of what I might suffer. For what evil is it in his power to do me > He can have no slavish fear of man, ivho stands not inj'ear of death'. g^^. ' . Ori,. r.V ... W, r. S.... «?eo.- .V. TTus fine verse U preserved by Plutarch, and ascribed to Eunp.des V.rgd al E'To the same sentiment in the foUowmg words of D.do. quetn t'mui moritura.-^^" TO ATTICUS. 211 But the%harge of ingratitude fills me with horror, I therefore hope that, as you write, he will glad- ly receive me, whenever I shall determine to join him. You tell me, that you would be more cautious in giving me advice, if Caesar should proceed with moderation. But how can he proceed other- wise than in a desperate manner? Think upoa his life, his manners, his past conduct, his pre- sent proceedings, his associates, and how he will be exasperated by the power, and even by the inflexibility, of our patriots. Scarcely had I read your letter, when Post- humus Curtius came to me, in great haste, on his way to Caesar, with nothing on his tongue, but the victories of Caesar by land and sea. — Caesar has conquered Spain, he possesses Asia, x Sicily, Africa, and Sardania, and now he is pur- suing his enemies into Greece.— If this is true, and should I follow Pompey, it would not be to assist him in fighting, but in flying. And indeed I cannot bear the talk of those— what shall I call them ?— For surely they are not patriots, as they affect to be called. And yet I cannot help being curious to know what they say, and I beg you, in the most earnest manner, to learn what it is, and to inform me of it. As yet, I am an abso- ute stranger to what has happened at Brundu- sium. I shall be determined by that event, and PS. the ii 212 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. SI 3 the circumstances of the time. But I will do no- thing without consulting you. EPISTLE III. The younger Domitius, on the 8th instant, Avent by this place to Formiae, in haste, to see his mother at Naples; and, upon Dionysius, one of my slaves being importunate with him for news, he ordered him to acquaint me, that his lather was at Rome. Now, I had intelligence that he was gone either to Pompey or to Spain. 1 wish I knew the truth of this. For it is of im- portance to my present difficulties, if Domitius is not yet gone, that Pompey should know that it is no easy matter for me to leave Italy, espe- cially in the winter time, and, filled as it is, with Caesar's armies and garrisons. For if the season were more favourable, I would pass over by the Tuscan sea, whereas now I can only go by the Adriatic, and my passage to it is shut up. You will therefore inform yourself both as to Domitius and Lentulus. I have as yet no news from Brundusium, though this is the 9th of March, and by my cal- culation, either this day or yesterday, Caesar ar- rived at Brundusium ; for, on the 1st of this month, he lay at Arpi. If we are to believe Posthumus, Posthumus, he is gone in pursuit of Pompey, who he thinks, by all he can guess from the wind and the weather, is already sailed. I cannot think that Caesar will be able to man his transport ves- sels. Posthumus is confident he can, on account of Caesar's great character of liberality amongst the seamen. But it is impossible I can be long ignorant of every thing, be what it will, that is past at Brundusium. EPISTLE IV. jL HOUGH I am relieved from pain, while I am writing to you, or reading your letters, yet all my subject is now exhausted, which I believe is the case with you likewise. As to writing on private familiar subjects, the times preclude it, and we have exhausted all that can be said upon public matters. But that I might not become the prey of indolence and ennui, I have taken in bands some topics of a political nature, but relating to the times, which may soften the bitterness of complaint, and at the same time contribute to my improvement. The topics I mean, I will pro- pose to you in the form of queries. Whether a man ought to continue in a country that has fallen under the power of a tyrant? Whe- ther in such a case, the downfall of the tyranny is not It 214 CICERO'S EPISTLES to be attempted, even at the risk of the very being of the state ? Whether it may not be pro- per to watch the ambition of the man, who over- throws an usurper ? Whether it is no I the duty of a citizen, when his country is oppressed, to assist her by his wisdom and address rather than by arms ? Whether it is consistent with the cha- racter of a good patriot, to retire, and to be at his ease, while his country is enslaved ? Whether any danger is too great to be hazarded for our country? Whether, when she is enslaved, we ought not to march in arms against her and even attack her walls ? Whether the man who disapproves of re- sisting tyranny by arms, ought to be numbered in the list of patriots ? Whether we ought not to risk all dangers for our oountry, in common with our benefactors and friends, though they be funda- mentally wrong in their measures ? Whether the man who has greatly served his country, and has thereby incurred the severest penalties and ha- tred, is bound in duty to offer her his services in her succeeding dangers ? Whether it is lawful for him out of regard for himself and his family, to decline joining in the opposition made to usur- pation. Such are the subjects in which I exercise my- self, disputing on both sides, sometimes in Greek, sometimes in Latin, and thereby gradually wean- ing my mind from its uneasiness, by applying the whole to my present case. But I am afraid, I shall TO ATTICUS. 215 I shall become burdensome to you. For, if the bearer of this letter proceeds directly, you will receive it on the very day in which your fit re- turns. EPISTLE V. The letter which you wrote me upon your birth-day, was full of sound wisdom, tempered with great affection and true prudence. I re- ceived it from Philotimus the day after he had it from you. The matters you touch upon are of the most difficult nature. To get to the Adriatic —To sail on the Tuscan sea— My going to Arpi- num— The danger of appearing to fly from Cae- sar — Of throwing myself in his way, to compli- ment him, should 1 remain at Formiae. — But the most wretched circumstance is, that I have lived to this sad day, in which I witness what I cannot help, the miseries that thicken every hour. Pos- thumus has been with me. I wrote to you before, what an air of importance he wore. Fusius like- wise came to me, with strange looks, in high spi- rits, and in great haste to reach Brundusium, sometimes railing at Pompey s treason, and some- times at the Senate's want of resolution and wis- dom. If I cannot bear such insolence in my villa, 216 CICERO'S EPISTLES villa, can I bear it of Curtius^ in the senate, But suppose I >yere to bear this with patience, what will be the event, when my sentiments are formally demanded in the senate ? I shall not here speak of the cause of our country, which I think to be irretrievable, not more from her wounds, than the remedies that has been applied to them. But I ask you, how I am to conduct myself in respect to Pompey ? It signifies nothing for me to deny to you, that I am angry with him. For the causes of events always affect \is more than the events themselves. When I reflect, or rather when I perceive, that those calamities (than which none can be greater) happened through his misconduct and obstinacy, 1 blame him more than I do Caesar. Our ances- tors held the day, on which the battle of Allia, was fought, to be more fatal than that on which their city was taken, because the one calamity was the necessary consequence of the other. For this reason, the one day is marked out in the ca- lendar, though the other day is not so much as known to the public. Agreeable to this maxim, when I reflect upon his misconduct, for ten years, including the year in which my banishment happened, without his endeavouring to prevent it, when I reflect upon his misconduct, not to ^ This is only the general sense of a verse in Horner.—^ 2yvT6 ^v i^yrpiLiMu^ kxi re tt^o o rov eyovaev. II. x. 224. Of two men who join together, one aids the other in counsel. Aristotle, m citing this verse, adds, x«/ y«^ >ooj«TwT«fo<.— -E. 22 o CICERO'S EPISTLES the next place, I saw that Pompey was about tO kindle a bloody, and a destructive war. I ima- gined, indeed, that a worthy patriot, and a good man, would submit to the most dreadful punishment, rather than be a director, or even a party, in such scenes of misery. I thought death was preferable to the company of such men. Tind out, or ratlier, invent, my Atticus, some re- medy of these evils. Nothing can happen so in- supportable to me as is my present anguish of spirit C(esar, Commander in Chief, to Cicero, Commander in Chief y zcisheth Prosperity/, All Having but just seen our friend Furnius, without being able conveniently to speak with him, as I was upon a hasty march, and as my lections were ^one before ; yet, I was unwilling to lose an opportunity of writing to you by him, and returning you my thanks, as I have often done before, and, so well, in my opinion, do you deserve from me, that I shall ever feel obliged to you. In the first place, as I am in hopes of being very soon at Rome, I beg that I may see you there, where I may be directed by your ad- vice, interest, authority, and assistance in all things. I return tg the object I am pursuing, and I beg TO ATTICUS. 223 I beg you will pardon the hurry and shortness of this letter. I refer you to Furnius for the rest. EPISTLE Vir. m L WROTE you a letter, which I delivered for you upon the 12th, but the person to whom I ordered it to be given, is not yet set out. The courier came with such speed, as to arrive on the very day that was mentioned by Sallus, and broucrht me your letters, which were so full of informa- tion, and which reanimated the little spirit yet remaining in me, with some degree of comfort ; for I cannot say, that it has quite restored me, and yet you have made me the next thing to it Believe me, I do not now flatter myself with any happy event, for I can foresee, while Pompey and Caesar are alive, or even Pompey himself, that the constitution never can be re-established. I therefore, do not so much as dream of any ease to myself, for I calculate upon the worst I am now under no apprehensions, but lest I may do, or may have done, something that is unworthy^f me. You are therefore to be assured, that your letters have restored me to life. I do qot only mean your long letters, which are at once so ex- tremely particular and elegant, but even your short ~ ' "MHJ "■'^^ '^r ■• 22-4 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ■225 it I* 4 f: short ones, which gave me the very great pleasure to understand, that my conduct was approved of by Sextus ; an intelligence, the more agreeable to me, as I am sensible, not only of his great aflFec- tion to me, but of his being a thorough judge of what is right. As to your longer letter, it not only relieved nie, but my friends and family, from our unea- siness. I will therefore, follow your advice, and remain at Formi^e, lest too much notice should be taken of the meeting between Caesar and me at Rome, and lest he should think, I purposely shun him, if I should see him in either of these places. As to the favour you desire me to ask of him, that I may act with rc^gard to Pompey, in the same manner I did with regard to him, you may perceive by the letters from Balbus and Oppius, of which I send you copies, that I made that request some time ago. I likewise send you Cesar's letter to them, which, considermg the ardour of his ambition, is written with great cool- ness. But if CiEsar will not indulge me in this, you advise me publicly to declare myself a medi- ator for an accommodation. No danger shall . deter me from that. For, surrounded as I am with dangers, act how I will, if comply I must, why should it not be in the manner that shall do me the most honour ? But I am afraid lest this should gall Pompey. I am afraid Lesi Lest he should shake his Gorgon Locks at me K For you cannot believe how much our friend Pompey wishes to renew the domination of Sylla. I know what I say, and he never made a less se- cret of any thing in his life, than he does pf this. If such, you will say, is his disposition, would you follow him ? Believe me, my friend, I follow him for the kindnesses he has done me, not as he is the head of a party. I befriend him as I did Milo ; ^ Mij (xot yo^yiinv xt^otXviv ^sivoto iri\u§ov. This is a Very happy quotation from Odyss. ii. 33. For, as Pliny (Lib. viii. 12.) asserts, Pompey was a man of a stern and terrific aspect, though, from motivesof popularity, softened with affected affa- bility. Very similar to this is a very eloquent passage, in a speech of Mr. Burke. " How came Junius to ha.ve broke " through the cobwebs of the law, and to range uncontroled " and unpunished through the land ? The myrmidons of the " court pursue him in vain. They will not spend their time on ** me or you ; they disdain such vermin, when tlie mighty boar ^' of the forest, that has broke their toils, is before them. When '' I saw his attack upon the king, my blood ran coldj not that •* there was not intliat composition many bold truths, "by which *' a wise prince might profit : it was the rancour and venom " with which I was struck. When I expected from his daring *' flight, his fall and final ruin, I behold him soaring higher, '^ and coming souse upon botli houses of parliament. Nor has " he dreaded the terrors of your Irow, Sir ; king, lords, and " commons, are the sport of his fury." Sir Fletcher Norton^ the speaker, whom Mr. B. then addressed, was a man of a stern countenance.-— F. Vol. IL Q •t Mi .1 if 5» ■!1 226 CICERO'S EPISTLES Milo; as I did\— But where have I got— Then, you will say, you disapprove of his factious prin- ciples. No, these are excellent. But, mark what I say, their proceedings have been most scanda- lous. They set out with a design to starve Rome and Italy, then to plunder and burn the country, and to seize the properties of monied men. But, as I am afraid of the same consequences from the other party, if I meet with no kindness there, I think it would be more eligible for me to suffer all extremities at home. But I conceive my obli- gations to Pompey to be so great, that I dare not stand the reflection of being ungrateful, and yet, what you urge even upon that head, has in it a great deal of force. With regard to my triumph, I entirely agree with you, and I resign all thoughts of it with ease and pleasure. You rightly hint, that while I am act- ing in this manner towards Caesar, the fine weather for sailing is insensibly approaching. But, you will say, that will only be, if Pompey is at the head of a sufficient army. His army, let me tell you, is greater than we looked for. You need be under no apprehensions for him ; though I promise * Nothing renders these letters so agreeable to a reader, as passages of this kind. We here see the sentiments of our author, stript of all party and personal considerations. Who, after reading his pathetic oration for Milo, can think, that he knew him to be guilty, and that all the concern he took for hL^ defence, was merely a matter of interest and party ? TO ATTICU^. &2f 1 promise you, if he should prevail, he will not leave in Italy one stone upon another. Theit, you will ask, will you attend him in proceedings so inhuman ? If I do, it is, most assuredly, against my own judgment, and against the full current of precedents from our ancestors. But I wish to be gone, not so much to assist Pompey, as to avoid being the witness of Caesar's mea- sures. For you are not to imagine that the fury of his party will either be tolerable or bounded* But you are sensible of all this, that when the laws, the courts of justice, and the authority of the senate, are ruined, neither the private nof the public revenues of the Romans, will be suffi- cient to supply the lusts, the presumption, the excesses, and the wants of so many needy per- sons. Let me therefore be gone froiii hence, embark where I will. But even that shall be as you ad- vise me. But I must go. We shall certainly receive what you wait for, I mean news from Brundusium. You tell me, that our best patriots approve of my conduct hitherto, and know that I ^ have not left them ; and this gives me joy, if there is yet any room left for joy. I will make the most strict inquiry concerning Lentulus; I have committed that charge to Philotimus, who 19 a man of courage, and a most furious patriot^ "^ This is irony. ft Ti 'ft l| i II! 22« CICERO'S EPISTLES . . Now that I am finishing, it occurs to me, that YOU will perhaps be at a loss for farther sub- ject upon which to write. For we can now write upon nothing but public affairs, and the subject is actually exhausted. But, as your in- vention is fruitful, and affection (I speak, indeed, from my own expwence, and from the effects it has upon my own capacity) is communicative, ao on in writing to me as oft as you can. I am somewhat piqued, as I should be no unpleasant companion to you, at your not inviting me to go "with you to Epirus. But adieu, for the rest is as necessary to me, as walking and rubbing' is to you, and believe me, your letters have restored me to my natural rest Balbus aiid Oppius to Cicero, wish Prosperity. Mankind in general are apt to judge of the counsels, not only of humble persons, silch as we are, but of those of the highest rank, accord- ing to events, rather than motives. Relying, however, on your sincerity, with regard to the business about which you wrote to us, we will give you what, in our opinion, is the sound- est advice: it may not, perhaps, be the most pru- dent, but we can assure you it proceeds from ho- nest 1 This was one part of the regimen prescribed ta Atticus. TO ATTICUS. 2^9 nest sentiments and faithful hearts. Were we not perfectly well assured from Csesar himself of his doing what we think he ought to do, by enter- ing upon a treaty, as soon as he comes to Rome,' for accommodating all matters between him and Pompey, we should not continue to press you to concern yourself in that negociation, which must be the less embarrassed, and proceed with the greater dignity, if the whole of it shall pass through your hands, who are a friend to bo A. On the other hand, as we have alWays earnestly dissuaded you from fighting against "CaSsar,' s6 we never would give our advice for your takin^f^ arms against the man, who has so' highly oblige'dl you, as Pompey has done, *tf w'e knew that Caesat was determined to statnd out, aiwito push the war againsft Pompey. Biit as for all that has hap- pened, we write from opinion, rather than know- ledge of Caesar's intentions. All we^ can say ils, that we cannot conceive how either yoirr rank or your honour, which are so universally acknow- ledged, can permit you to taMe' ^rms against either, as you are under such obligations to both: and we make no doubt, Caesar'^ gooct-nature lis such, that he wiU approve of your neutrality. However, if you think proper, we will write to Caesar, to let us knoTV positively wKat He intends to do in this matter ; and if we receive his ans^ver, we will instantly communicate to you our senti- ments upon the same; and we give our word ©f honour^ 230 CICERO'S EPISTLES honour, that our advice to you shall be suited not to Caesar's views, but to your dignity; and we know Cffisar's indulgence to his friends too well to fear, that he will be offended at our freedom, • JBalbus to Cicero, Commander in Chief, wisheth Prosperity, and of en his Compliments. After sending off to you the joint letter' I wrote with Oppius, I received one^ from Caesar, of whicli I enclose you a copy. You may per- ceive by it, how earnest he is for restoring pub- lic tranquillity, and of accommodating his diffe- rences with Pompey, and how very averse he is to all cruelty. It gives me, as it ought, great pleasure that he entertains such sentiments. I am, my dearest friend, as sensible as you are, of whLt you owe to yourself, your engagements, and your gratitude ; and, indeed, I think it in- compatible with your duty and your character, for you to take arms against a man to whom you own yourself to be under so strong an obliga- tion. I have experienced the unrivalled huma- nity of Csesar in so great a degree, that I know he will approve of my sentiments in this matter, ^^ and I I have, after Monsieur Mongault, restored those letters to their proper order, they being misplaced in the common ed„ tlons of our author, TO ATTICUS. 231 and I know also, that you will give him the most entire satisfaction, by taking no concern in the war against him, and by not joining with his ene- mies. This is an indulgence he will not only shew to a person of your great rank and abilities, but he has, of himself, been pleased to dispense with even my serving in the camp, that was to act against Lentulus or Pompey, to whom I own myself to be under great obligations. He added, that he should require no more of me than, at his desire, to do him some services at Rome, and he left me at liberty to do as much for them. In consequence of this indulgence, I now ma- nage and inspect the private affairs of Lentulus at Rome, and perform to him and Pompey, all I owe them upon the footing of duty, honour, and gratitude. The hopes of an accommodation have been again dropt, but, really, I cannot see for what reason, since Caesar evinces no disposition but such as we could wish him to display. You ought, I think, if it is agreeable to you, to write to him, and to ask^him for a guard* as you for- merly did (and, as I thought, very properly) from Pompey, * Balbus here artfully puts our author in raind of Pompey's overawing the trial of Milo with his guards. Dr. Middleton, in his Life of Cicero, is of opinion, that the offer of this guard was insinuated to make him Caesar's prisoner. But I can see no reason for that supposition, when we consider the open man- ner in which Caesar acted to all his enemies. 23S CICERO'S EPISTLES Pompey, in the case of Milo. I am so sure of Ceesar, that I will answer for his respecting your dignity, rather than his own interest 1 know not how unguardedly I express myself here, but I well know that every thing I write to you, flows from my entire esteem and friendship for you, and may I die, which I would willingly do for the preservation of Caesar, if there are many in the w^orld, whom I esteem equally with yourself. I beg you to write to me, as soon as you have come to any resolution upon this matter. For I am in great pains to put you in the way of ex- pressing the affection which you bear, and which, I am confident, you express to both. FareweL Casar to Oppius and Cornelius *, Health, X AM, be assured, extremely glad that you expres- sed by letters, your very great approbation of what has passed at Corfinium. I will follorw your advice with the greater pleasure, as it was always my own disposition to act with the ut* most lenity, and to court an accommodation with Pompey. Let us try whether it be possible, by this means, to regain the confidence of the pub- lic, and to make our successes durable; since others, ^ Though Balbus was a Spaniard^ yet he took the name of the family of his patron LenttUus. TO ATTICUS. kB <)thers\ by cruelty, fell into detestation, antf none of them, excepting Sylla, whom I dd not choose to imitate ^ enjoyed his successes long. Let us shew the world a new method of conquering, and let clemency and munificence be my only guards. I have already formed some schemes, and many more may be formed, for ef- fecting this. I desire you .to turn your thoughts to the same subject. • I took prisoner Cnaeius Magius, one of Pom- pev's commanding officers ; but, according to the plan I laid down, I instantly dismissed him. He is the second general officer who has fallen into my hands, and whom I have dismissed. If they want to shew their gratitude, they will exhort Pompey to prefer my friendship to that^ of those men 1 This letter is a noble testimony of Caesar's wisdom and magnanimity, and as his actions answered the sentiments he lays down here, there is no room to doubt of his sincerity. The persons he means in this passage, are Marias and Cinna, and he was related to both. For Marius married his aunt, and he mar- ried Cinna's danghter. Notwitlistanding that, he blames their cruel politics. 2 Sylla was always the enemy of Caesar, and pretended to have restored the nobility, and the senate, in the state, to their proper rank and authority j and this he did by deluging the commonwealth with blood. Caesar was professedly the friend of the commons, but no enemy to the senate, and what he says here is a tacit reproach upon Pompey, who always publicly de- clared he would imitate Sylla. 3 It is a great short-sightedness in authors who take up the commencement iS4 CICERO'S EPISTLES men who have ever shewn themselves his, and my inveterate enemies ; and by whose practices the republic is reduced to its present state. EPISTLE VIII. W HiLE we were at supper, the night of the 14th instant, Statius brought me a short letter from comrocncement of the civil differences in Rome, which ended so fetally for her liberty, only at the dme when the breach be- tween Pompey and Caesar was declared. The best patriots of Rome, viz. Cato, Bibulus, Domitius, and even our author, as we have seen in the foregoing part of these letters, foresaw, and foretold, the miseries that followed from the time of Pompey'a intimacy with Caesar, and they equally opposed the growth of the power of both. But Pompey *s popularity, and Caesar's in- terest amongst the commons, and with the Marian faction, which was still very strong, bore down every thing before them j because, in effect, they formed a kind of coalition of parties, especially, as by means of Crassus, it was supported by the monied interest, viz. the knights. Notwithstanding this, as the real patriots had great weight, they often found means to open the eye sof their countrymen so effectually, that they went near to overthrow all the power of Pompey and Caesar, Vide vol. i; p. 143, 144, 145, &c. We are not, therefore, candidly speak- ing, to imagine, that Caesar, with all his plausible declarations, ever meant to restore the constitution of Rome, to that equal balance between the people and the senate, which the true patriots desired to effect. This very passage is a proof, that this was not in his thoughts, and that all he wanted was to compromise matters with Pompey, at the expence of Cato, and the rest who had opposed both of them in their growing power. TO ATTICUS. S55 from you. As to Lucius Torquatus, whom you inquire after, both he, and Aulus' are gone ; the latter has been gone many days. I am greatly alarmed at the news you write me from Reate, as if a proscription was about to take place in the country of the Sabines. I had, as well as you, heard that a great many senators were at Rome- Pray can you guess why they are leaving- it? An opinion, founded rather upon conjecture than information or intelligence, prevails here, that, on the 22d of March, Caesar will be at Formiae. I wish I had with me here that Minerva, who, in Homer, appears under the figure of Mentor, to whom I might address myself, Sajf how shall I approach, end how embrace him. Never was I, in my life, so much at a loss to de- termine how to behave. I am, however, deter- mined ; nor shall I encounter the evils unpre- pared. I wish you well ; for, if I mistake not; you had a fit yesterday. EPISTLE * Lucius Torquatus had been consul, and Aulus Torquatus had been praetor, « Vi%, To welcome Caesar, who was then returning to Rome. i x^ 1 • V I : t I ^1 4 ;i I I l1 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 23/ EPISTLE IX. v/n the l6th, I received three letters from ycRi, dated the 12th, 13th, and 14th, I will therefore answer them in the order of time. I agree with, you, that it is best for me to remain at Formiae, and, likewise as to what you write of the upper sea ; and, as I wrote before, I will do my best ta tty, whether I cannot reconcile Caesar to my standing neutral in public matters. You com- mend me for my writing to you, that I haye over- looked the miscarriages and demerits of our friend. It is true, I have, and even to such a degree, that I have even forgotten his unkind pro- ceedings, which you mention against myself. So very willing am I, that my sense of favours should prevail over my resentment of injuries. Let me, therefore, pursue what you recommend, and be myself again. For, in my rural walks, I am in- cessantly reasoning with myself, and conning over my queries ; but some of them are extremely difficult to resolve. Let our great men be what you will have them to be ; but you know the proverb, Dionysius lived at Corinth', The son ofTitiniusis with Caesar. * Orig. Monsieur MongauU, with very great justice, rejects the common application which critics have made of this pro- '* ■ ^ verbial Caesar. You seem apprehensive, lest your coun- sels should be disagreeable to me ; so far from it, that my only joy in life is in receiving your ad- vices and letters. Fulfil, therefore, your purpose of continually wTiting to me, whatever comes inta your verbial expression, to our author's person, as if he had re- proached himself for leading a life unbecoming his character. But I cannot agree so well with that gentlemen in thinking, that Cicero means here to put Atticus in mind of the mutabi- lity of fortune, and that it was possible Pompey might one day or other get the better. There is nothing in the words here, as he supposes, that determines them to that sense, though I own, it is difficult to find out a better. If I were to hazard a con- jecture, I would apply it to that thirst of tyranny which led Dionysius to tyrannize over school-boys after he was expelled from his throne. It is in this light that the occupation of Dio- nysius chiefly strikes our author, rather than in that of the me- lancholy reverse of fortune. He therefore, perhaps, hints, that the nobility of 6ome, were willing to live under either Csesar or Pompey, provided they still continued to enjoy the power of oppressing slaves, as they had formerly done freemen. Est au» tern, says he, {Tuscul, Disput. Lib, 3, Cap. 12.) impudens bictus mcerore se conficientis , quod imperare non liceat liheris. Dio- nys'ius quidem tyrannus, Syracusis expulsus, Corinthi pueros do- celat i usque eo imperio carere non poterat, " Now it is a " most impudent grief for a man to languish with sorrow, be- " cause he cannot command the free. Dionysius the tyrant, *^ was so unable to live without power, that he taught boys at *^ Corinth, when he was driven from Syracuse." This pas- sage, I think, goes far to determine the words in question, to the sense I have hinted at. He mentions this circumstance of Dionysius, (Epist. Earn, Lib, Q. Ep. 18.) in pretty much the same light, with regard to himself, but jocularly. f 1 8S3 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 239 3'our thoughts; you cannot lay me under a greater obligation. I now come to your second letter. You are in the right, in not believing the number of Pom- pey's soldiers to be as you have heard. Clodia's letter mentions it to be greater by half. The ac- count of the ships being burnt, is likevi^ise false. As to your commending the consuls, I too commend their motives, but not their measures. For, by their separation, all negociations con- cerning peace are at an end ; at least, upon the plan which I had projected \ I have there- fore, sent you back by Philotimus, the treatise of Demetrius concerning public unanimity. For my own part, I perceive a most destructive war, ready to terminate in famine ; and yet I la- ment that I am not concerned in this war, a war so detestable, that though it is the hjghest crime against nature not to support our parents, yet the leaders of this war have taken their mea- sures for famisliing the most venerable, the most sacred of all parents, I mean their country. My apprehensions do not arise from what I con- jecture, but from what I heard. For all this fleet from Alexandria, Colchis, Tyre, Sidon, Aradus, Cyprus, Pamphylia, Lycia, Rhodes, Chios, J This happened to be true in effect, for Pompey rejected Caesar^fi last propositions, on pretext that the consul* were not %ith him. Chios, Byzantium, Lesbos, Miletus, Smyrna, and Coos, is getting ready to intercept the pro- visions of Italy, and to seize the coasts of the corn-countries. But in what a passion will Pom- pey return ! especially with those who wanted most to save their country, as if they had aban- doned him, and not he them, which was the case* My friendship, therefore, for Pompey, goes a great way in determining my doubts, as to my future conduct; for, were it not for that friendship, I should choose to die in my country, rather than to ruin, under the pretext of saving it The north wind, as you conjecture, has cer- tainly conveyed away the consuls. I am afraid, that Epirus will have its share in the public trou- bles. But do you imagine, there is a place ia Greece, that will not be plundered ? For, Pom- pey publicly avows, and demonstrates to his sol- diers, that he will out-do Caesar himself in libe- rality. Your advice is excellent, that, when I shall see Caesar, I should speak to him rather with authority, than with mildness. I am deter- mined to do this. I think of going to Arpinum, but not till I have s^en him, lest I should chance not to be in the way when he comes hither, or be obliged to ramble after him through very bad roads. I hear, as you write me, that Bibulus is arrived, and that he returned on the 14th. In your third Jetter^ you tell me, that you ex- pected \ ii Mi 5 2 I I 'I i 240 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO Arricus. S4I pected Philotimus ; but he left me only on the 15th, for which reason, my answer, which I iu-» stantly wrote to yours, is longer than it ought in coming to your hands. I agree with you in be- lievinfT Domitius to be at his house in Cosa, and that it is not known how he will proceed. Of all base men he is the basest \ who maintains, that a consular election may be held by a praetor. But that is in unison with his former behaviour tOAvards his country. This, however, explains CjEsaf s expressions in his letter, of which I sent you a copy, that he would be directed by my ad- 'vice, which is a vulgar compliment, — By my inte" rest, which is absurd ; but, I suppose, he passes that compliment to me, in regard to the opinion of the senators, — By my authority. — Perhaps, he means, the weight which the opinion of a con- sular carries along with it in the house ; — At last, he says, bi) my assistance in all things''^ When I read 1 This probably was Lepidns, who was afterwards a Trium- vir, and was then praetor. Concerning the affair mentioned here. See Aulus Gellius, Lib. 13. Cap. 14. * Monsieur Mongault has not evinced his usual accuracy In translating this passage. It plainly refers to Caesar's letter to our author. Vide p. 68. And the identity of the expression in Caesar's letter, ought to have been preserved here, which Mon- sieur Mongault has neglected to do. I have been the more mi- nute in this observation, because the political sense of the words. Consilium, Gratia, Dignitas, and Opes, which often occur in our author, are very happily determined^ by this comment of •ur author upon Caesar's words. tead your letter, I began to suspect he meant this, or some such thing. For it is of great im- portance to him, that there shouid be no inter- regnum, which he may prevent, if a praetor can elect the consuls \ Our statute-books, however, tell us, that a praetor cannot lawfully elect the consuls, nor even praetors, and that no such thing ever was done. They cannot by law appoint the consuls, because the higher magis- tracy cannot lawfully be obtained from the infe- rior nor the praetorsj because they are, with, regard to the rights of election, on a footing with the consuls, whose power is supreme. Caesar w411 likely desire my decision in his favour, without depending upon that of Galba, Scae- vola, Cassius, or Antony", than which I should rather be buried alive ^ Thus you see what a dreadful storm is hanging over us. I will write you what senators have gone beyond the sea, as soon as I have more certain intelli- gence. You are right in your apprehensions, concerning the subsistence of Pompey's army^ which ^ He found another way of preventing it, by beings named dictator, in right of which office he presided at the consular elections. 2 These were all creatures of Cae^r, and perhaps augurs, as Well as our author. ^ Ori^. — TOTS /Ao< ^am ivpua ^9m, literally, then may the earth swallow me up. Vol. IL R t i "; 242 CICERO'S EPISTLES which can be furnished only by extraordinary imposts ; nor, is it without good grounds, that you are afraid of those wlio are about Pompey, and of a dreadful civil war. I am very desirous to see our friend Trcbalius, though he is, as you write, always in a state of despondency. I beg you will desire him to make haste to come to me, for it is very requisite I should see him before Caesar comes this way. As to Lanuvinum' as soon as I heard that Phameas was dead, I wished that some of my friends would buy it, I mean, provided our country should continue to exist; and yet, though you are the best friend I have, you did not so much as come into my mind. For, I know how much interest, or how much ground you require for your money, and I saw your books of accounts, not only at Rome, but at Delos^ But, though it is a pretty estate, I now value it less, than I did under the consulship of Marcellinus, when the gardens that belonged to it, would have greatly improved the house I then had at Antium, and when the whole might have cost less than the repairing of Tusculanum. I offered him security for five hundred thousand serteces, and that the money should be advanced to 1 This seat lay near Aricea. < The original here is very obscure, cording to the best authorities. I have translated it ac- TO ATTICUS. 243 to Phameas, when he came to Antium to sell it. But he refused it ; yet, I suppose, the price of estates is now fallen, on account of the scarcity of money. If you should buy it, it would be extremely convenient for me, or rather for us. X would not, however, have you to reject it on account of the immense expence, as it is very beautiful ; though in my opinion every edifice of this kind will soon become the devoted vic- tim of plunder. I have thus answered your three letters. But I am impatient for more, since hitherto your letters haye been my only support. March the 17th. EPISTLE X. 1 HAVK nothing to write to you, as having re- ceived no news, since I answered yours the day before yesterday. But, as fretting not only keeps me from sleeping, but gives me the great- est pain, while I am awake, I set myself down to scribble somewhat or other, in which I have no manner of meaning, but to converse as it were with you, who are my only comfort. I now see, that I have been a madman all along, and I am tortured by this single reflection, that I did not, as a soldier follows his colours, implicitly follow Pompey. While he was tottering, or rather rush- ^ ^ mg i a i s ;• I 244 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. £45 ing into ruin, I saw him on the 1 1th of January, under such visible consternation, that I knew that very day, what he intended to do. 1 ap- proved of none of his measures, as he continu- ed to heap one misconduct on another, without writinc^ in the meantime to me, and witliout thinking of any thing, but how to fly. To tell you the truth, as in the aftairs of love, we are disgusted with a senseless, inelegant mistress, so my aftection towards him was alienated by the meanness of his flight, and the carelessness of his behaviour. He did not make one step that could induce me to attend him in his flight. But now my love-fit returns, and I am unable to bear the absence of him; books, reading, philosophy, are now altogether destitute of interest and charms to me. Night and day my heart flutters like a bird, as soon as I cast my eyes on the sea, with eagerness to fly over it I am pun- - ished, indeed I am, for my rashness. But what do I talk of rashness ? What have I done,, but upon the most mature deliberation \? Had ^ fight 1 The whole of tl^is paragraph Is inexpressibly beautiful, and the manner of it is an infallible proof of its being dictated from the heart. Notwithstanding which, I know nothing in the hu- man system so unaccountable as the passion which our author here pretends to have for Pompey. For my own part, I cannot help frankly owning, that I believe, he mistook the object of his passion, and that all he says here of Pompey, is no other than the reiult of the tenderness, the delicacy, and the soreness, which . ( ' n flight been the only question, I would have ac- companied his flight with the greatest pleasure, but I was struck with horror when I reflected that this was only the prelude to a wairr, the most dreadful and cruel that can be imagined, and its consequences impossible to be foreseen. What menaces were thrown out against the municipal towns, and especially against the best of our pa- triots, and against all who staid behind ? How frequent was that saying in Pompey's mouth, " If Sylla had power to do so, shall I be unable to do it?" I own, these things adhered to me. Tarquin which he was perpetually feeling for his own character. His whole reasoning, in this letter, turns upon the same principles, and he ingeniously justifies himself to himself, and to his friend from his friend's letters, and from prudential considerations. But to say the truth, if Pompey was that low, mean-spirited wretch, that pitiful politician, and that despicable general our author represents him to be, how can we account for the prefe- rence he always affects to give his person, especially as he tells us, his views were more bloody and destructive than those of Caesar ? The truth is, a great part of our author's patriotism sprung from the confidence he assumed from the lenity of Cae- sar. He was extremely cautious, while he thought that Caesar would proceed on the same bloody plan as Sylla, Marius and former tyrants had done, of coming to extremities with him, by leaving Italy to follow Pompey. But when he found, that it was impossible for him to offend beyond tJie measures of Caesar's forgiveness, he then resolved to follow Pompey, because, he hereby reconciled patriotism to safety. I should not have been so bold in this observation upon our author's conduct, did it not ;iaturally rise from the whole tenor of these letters. ^'1 \i U6 CIi:ERO S EPISTLES Tarquin acted unnaturally, when he armed Por- s«na* and Octavius Mamilius against his coun- try; Coriolanus was a traitor, for soliciting assistance from the Volsci ; Themistocles be- haved like a patriot, who preferred death ; Hip- pias the son of Pisistratus, was a rebel, for carrying arms against his country, when he fell in the battle of Marathon. But Sylla, Marius, and Cinna, acted under j^reat provocation, and perhaps, with some colour of justice 2; but what could be more cruel, what could be more fatal, than their victories were ? I wanted to avoid a repetition of the same kind of war, especially as I saw measures of a still more cruel nature in agitation, and in for- wardness. Shall I march at the head of Goths, of Arminians, of Colchians, against the city, of which I was called the preserver, of which I was hailed the fatlier? Shall I bring famine upon my countrymen ? Shall I introduce desolation into Italy ? It first occurred to me, that Pom- pey was mortal by nature, and that his death might be occasioned by many accidents, but tliat it 1 The persons mentioned here, are so well known in ancient history, that I shall not describe them. It may, however, be proper to inform the reader, that Hippias was a Greek, and upon his brother's being killed, he fled to the king of Persia, and persuaded hira to make war upon his country. 2 Orig. At Sylla, at Marius, at Cinna recte, immo jure fortasse. The words recte & jure here, are too strong to be translated literally into English. TO ATTICUS. 247 it was our duty to do all we could, that our city and our country should remain immortal, and still I entertained the flattering hopes of an accom- modation, before Caesar should so far advance ia treason, or Pompey in blood. The whole scene is now changed, and so are my sentiments. The sun, to make use of an ex- pression in one of your letters, seems to be extin- guished in the system of the world. As there are hopes while there is breath in the body of a sick man, so I continued still to hope, while Pompey remained in Italy. Here, here I was mistaken ; and, (to speak candidly) in this decline of life, after incessant toils, my age seeks to glide into the endearment of domestic repose. At present, should the experiment cost me my life, yet I will try to fly from hence. I perhaps, make this expe- riment when it is too late, but I was detained by the reasons I wrote you, and chiefly by your opi- nion. For, when I came to this place, I perused a bundle of your letters, which I preserve most carefully under seal. Now, in that which you wrote me the 23d of January were these words: "But let us see how Pompey will proceed, and what his views are. Should he leave Italy, I think he will act very wrong, and in my opinion, very absurdly. But. we cannot, before then, change our measures." This is written the fourth day after I left Rome. Afterwards on the £5th of % I 248 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ' 249 of January, you write me, '' Provided our friend Pompey do not abandon Italy, as he has most absurdly abandoned Rome." There is another of yours of the same date, in which you give this direct answer, upon my asking your advice. Your words are, ** But I come to that concern- ing which you consult me; if Pompey should leave Italy, I think you should return to Rome, for there would be no end of travelling after him in foreign countries." This I own to you, impressed me. And now, I see that an endless war is to attend my wretched flight, which you soften by the term of " travelling in foreign countries." Now follows your prediction on the 27th of January. ** Should Pompey remain in Italy, and should there be no accommodation, I am of opi- nion, the war would last a long time. But should he abandon Italy, I fear, that its miseries will rage beyond our days." Such then is the war, in which I am forced to partake, to act, and to assist, an endless civil war. Afterwards on the 7th of February, after seeing a little farther into Pom- pey's views, you conclude your letter thus : " I, for my part, would not advise you to leave Italy, and to follow him in his flight ; for that would expose you to the greatest danger, without doing any service to your country, which you may here- after serve if you should stay in Italy." Show me the patriot or the citizen of public spirit, who would not be swayed by such an admonition, by sucl) such an advice coming from a man of sense, and a friend? Afterwards on the 11th of February, upon my a^^ain applying to you for advice, you write me as follows, *' As to this, you ask me, whether I think a flight in which I am to adhere to Pompey\ or my remaining here, by which I abandon the cause of our patriots, the most advisable. For my own part, I think at present, that your sudden and precipitate departure, would do no service either to you or to Pompey, and would expose you to danger. I think it more safe, that you disperse, and be on the watch for awhile. But 1 judge it at any rate, truly shameful to think of flying. Yet this is a shame which our friend Pompey has been meditating for these two years past. So much has his mind indulged in the pro- scriptions of Sylla -. After this, if I remember right, after writing me somewhat in general terms, from which I imagined, I could gather some hints, that you wanted me to leave Italy, you shew your detestation of that in more express terms, on the 19th of February : " For my part, I never gave you the least intimation, that if Pom- pey should leave Italy, you ought to leave it like- wise. Or, if I have given such a hint, it is incon- sistent, not only with my own sense^ but with common * The original here is corrupted, and can be restored only by conjecture. 2 Qj^g^ //^ sullaturit animus ejus et prescripturit diu. 250 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 1>51 common sense." In another passage of the same letter, you say, *' Pompey has now no shift but to fly, but as to your leaving Italy, with him, I am still against it, and ever was against it" But you discuss all the difficulties that can occur on this subject, more accurately in your letter of the' 22d of February: *' If Manius Lepidus and Lucius Volcatius should stay, I think you ought to stay likewise. But still, if Pompey can pre- serve himself, and make a stand somewhere ; I think you ought to abandon the inanimate crew around you^, and prefer to die sword in hand with Pompey, rather than to reign with those harpies, who shall flock together in the govern- ment of Cagsar. After expatiating a great deal to the same purpose, you say in the close of your letter, " But if Lepidus and Volcatius should leave Italy, I am at a loss how to advise you. Even in such an event, I think that what you have done is right, whatever the consequence may be." If you were then at a loss how to advise, you surely can be at none now, as they have re- mained in Italy. Afterwards, on the 25th of February, when \ Pompey was flying, you tell me, " Mean- while, you will, I doubt not, remain at Formia?^ where * iiixvtatv. Literally carcases, meaning, as it appears to me, those idle, vain dependants, whom Cicero had now about him, as Imperator. Others, however, take them to be the profli- gate and needy, who flocked to the standard of Caesar. — E. where you can most conveniently hear what hap- pens." On the 1st of March, when Pompey had been five days gone from Brundusium, you write me, *' Then we can deliberate, not that I say ^ you are quite free from engagements, but surely you are less- involved than you would have been, had you precipitately gone after Pompey. After- wards on the 4th of March, when you had a fit of the ague, you write me a few lines to the fol- lowing effect. '' To-morrow I will write you more fully as to every thing. Meanwhile, I do not at all repent advising you to stay in Italy. You must, indeed, feel great anxiety, but much less than if you had left Italy. I therefore, am still of the same sentiments, and I am glad you have not changed yours." Afterwards, while I was fretting and alarmed, lest I had exposed my- self to disgrace, you write me on the 5 th of March. *' And yet I am not at all uneasy at your not being with Pompey. If it is necessary afterwards, you will have no great difficulty in joining him, and you will be most welcome to him, join him when you will. But this inmt be understood with limitation. For should Ciesar proceed in the same sincere, moderate, wise manner, he sets Out with, I see we shall have great reason to ad- vise farther upon what is proper for us to do." On the 9th of March you write me, that my re- maining inactive is greatly approved of by our friend I ■ Iff 252 CICERO'S EPISTLES friend Peducius, whose opinion has a great weight with me. These expressions comfort me, with the thoughts that I have hitherto done nothing that is disgraceful. I leave it to you to sup- port your own opinion, not that I require to be satisfied, but that others may be satisfied likewise. If I have not erred hitherto, I will take care of what is to come. Exhort me to per- severe in this, and assist me with your thoughts on that head. We have heard nothing concern- ing Cesar's return. I am rewarded for writing this letter, by the satisfaction I have had in peru- sing all yours. EPISTLE XL You must know that our friend Lentulus is at Puteoli. I no sooner learned this, which I thought an improbable piece of intelligence, from a traveller, who said that he saw and knew him upon the Appian way, while the windows of his carriage were open. I then sent some slaves to Puteoli, to find him out witli a letter from me. It was with difficulty that they found bin^ skulking about his country-house ; and he re- turned an answer to my letter, in which he greatly magnifies his obligations to Csesar, and adds, that he TO ATTICUS. £53 be has entrusted Caius Caecius to inform me of what he intends himself to do. I expect him this day, which is the 20th of March. Yesterday Matius paid me a visit. Upon my honour, I think him a discreet, wise man, and he has al- ways been reckoned an adviser of peaceable mea- sures. He expressed strong disapprobation of Gsesar's present proceedings, and his dread of the vultures around him, as you term them. As we have had a great deal of conversation together, I showed him Cesar's letter to me, of which I sent you a copy, and I begged to know of him what he meant by the expression, that he was willing to be directed by my advice, interest, authority, and assistance in all things. His answer was, that he made no doubt Caesar applied to me for my assistance and interest in bringing about an accommodation, I wish to heaven, that in the present distressful state of the country, it were practicable to serve it by my wisdom, or my exertion. As to Matius, he wa$ very positive that Caesar's sentiments were pa- cific, and he promised himself to recommencj parcific measures to him. But Crassipes had paid me a visit the day before, who said, that he had left Pompey, upon the 6th, at Brundusium, and they who came from tlience on the 8th, say the same thing. All of them and Crassipes amongst the rest, agree that Pompey's followers, v<^y imprudently, you must be sensible, throw out I 1 o 254 CICEROS EPISTLES 1 1 out threatening speeches, avow themselves foe^ to the nobility, and enemies to our municipal towns ; that they breathe proscriptions, and pro- fess themselves to be so many Syllas ! This is the language of Lucceius, of all Greece, and es- pecially of Theophanes ! — Yet, upon such men, depend all the hopes of our country's preserva* tion. On their account my eyes are strangers to sleep, and my soul to rest, and yet I am impa- tient till I associate with men so unlike myself, that I may avoid the public pests that form the other partv. Into what seas of blood, do you not think Scipio, Faustus, and Libo will embark, now that their private aftairs are entirely ruined : should they prevail, what cruelties will tliey not inflict upon the citizens of Rome ? What pusilanimity diey impute to Pompey ! He has given up the thought of going to Spain, and intends to seek concealment in Egypt, Ara- bia Felix, and Mesopotamia. But there may be nothing in these wild reports. It is however, certain, that the schemes of Caesar are desperate, and those of Pompey dangerous ; I am impatient for a letter from you. Ever since I left Rome, I have not permitted a day to pass without writing to you : I have sent you a copy of my letter to Caesar, and I imagine that it will have some effect. Cictro, TO AITICUS. ^55 Vicero, Commander in Chief y to Casar, Commander in Chief, uisheth Prosperity. Havivg read your letter, which I received from our friend Furnius, in which you propose I should return to Rome ; I was not surprised at your desiring to avail yourself of my advice and authority, but I was at a loss for your meaning in requiring my interest and assistance. I however, flattered mvself, that, consistently with your ad- mirable and matchless wisdom, you were willing I should co-operate with you for re-iestablishing the happiness, the peace, and the tranquillity of our country, for which I am qualified both by my disposition and character. If this be your wish, if you are concerned for the safety of our friend Pompey, and for a reconciliation with him, and with the country, you can, indeed, find no man more proper than I am, to be employed in such a cause. I took the most early opportunity of recommending pacific measures both to him and the senate, nor have I taken the least concern in the war ever since hostilities commenced, as judging you to be injured by a war, which was kindled by those enemies, who envied you the ho- nours decreed you by the people of Rome. But, as on that occasion, I not only promoted your pretensions I -» 256 CICEROS EtlSTLES 4 pretensions to those distinctions, but likewise solicited others to join your party, so, at thi^ tiiiie, I am sensibly concerned for the dignity of Pompey. For it is several years since I sin- gled you both out as the objects of my chief re- ward, and as itiy most particular friends, which you still are. I therefore desire, or rather, I most earnestly beseech and conjure you, that, in the midst of your important proceedings, you will bestow a moment's attention to this thought, how I may acquit myself through your indulgence, as an ho- nest, grateful, worthy man, towards a person whom I remember to have imposed upon me the greatest obligation. Had this request regarded only my own person, I flatter myself you would grant it. But I am of opinion, that the sincerity of your professions, and the interest of our country, require that you should select me out of thost^ few, whose situation tits them to endeavour to re- concile you and Pompey, and to restore the pub- lic tranquillity. I already returned you my thanks for your kindness to Lentulus, and for thus saving the man who had saved me. But when I read his letters which he wrote me with a heart full of gratitude for your generosity, I thought that the favour done to him was done to myself. If you approve of my gratitude to him, I beg that you will TO ATTictra 257 Wilt give me an opportunity of shewing the like to Pompey ^ EPISTLE XIL ^r HiLE 1 was reading your letter' of the SOth of March, I received one from Lepta, with an account that Pompey was surrounded, and that the * This is the Celebrated letter for which our autlior has apo- logized beforCi Notwithstanding all he says in that apology^ it can scarcely be denied, that he goes too far when he says, that he thout^ht Caesar had the juster causei if be was sincere in what he says at other times, of his abhorrence of Caesar's pro- ceedings. The whole letter^ however, gives us a most beau- tiful picture of the goodness of our author's heart, and at the same time, of his exquisite delicacy and good breeding. The worst that can be said of it is, that it is not written in the spirit of a severe patriot, and that it is not such as Cato, Brutus, Bibu- lus, or any of the high republicans, would have dictated. It was, however, conceived in the most proper terms for conciliat- ing Caesar. Our author was indeed mistaken, and so have all his apologists, and none more than Dr. Middleton> in ima- gining that either Caesar> or the patriots^ had any great opinion of our author's integrity or wisdom, I believe they despised and distrusted both, but that did not prevent his being of great im- portance to either party, and^ in fact, he was of a character very proper for acting as a mediator, if either party, was sincerely disposed to peace, perhaps much more so than he could have beeUi had he been less pliable. VoL.IL S 258 CICERO'S EPISTLES the entrance of the harbour was occupied by armed boats \ My tears, I protest, prevent me from thinking or writing any farther. I send you, therefore, the copy of his letter. What WTetches are we who did not, all of us, hazard ourselves along with Pompey ! And now the same melancholy news are confirmed by Matins and Trebatius, who met Caesar's couriers at Miu- turnae. My misery now is such, that I wish for the fate of Mucins \ But how generous, how clear, how well digested were your advices concerning my journey, my voyage, my meeting, and my conversation with Caesar. What you proposed was at once honour- able and prudent. But as to the invitation, you give me to Epirus, it is the act of a friend, of a generous friend, and a brother ! I am surprised at the behaviour of Dionysius ; Scipio did not entertain Panaetius more honour- ably that I did him, and yet he basely neglects me in my present degradation. I -hate, and ever shall hate the man. I wish I could be revenged upon him, but I will leave him to be his own tormentor. Now, now, my friend, is the time for your con- sidering what I am to do. An army of Romans besiege * We have a fuH account of those operations in Caesar's first book of the civil war, to which I refer the reader. * Quintus Mucius Scaevola was killed by order of the younger Marius. TO ATTICUS. ^69 besiege Pompey. He is blocked up by a ditch and a rampart ; he is cut off from flying. Yet are we alive ? Does Rome still stand ? Do her praetors sit in judgment? Are her Ediles preparing their sports? Are her men of w^orth laying out their money at interest ? But what am I doing ? Shall I madly run about ? Shall I rouse the loyalty of our municipal towns ? The great will not follow me, the mob will deride me ; they who aim at a revolu-^ tion, now (especially that they are success- ful and in arms) will lay violent hands on me* What then is your opinion ? How would you advise me to put an end to the miseries of such a life ? My sorrows, my torments are redoubled, now that some people will think me either pru- dent or happy, for not having followed Pompey. My sentiments are the reverse, for I have always wished to be with Pompey, not to share in his victory but in his distress. Let me now implore your letters, let me have recourse to your wis- dom or your kindness — All is now desperate.— We are not without remedy.— I have not now even a wish to form, but that Pompey may be de^ livered by the clemency of his enemy. The report concerning the blockade^ I believe not ^ Orig. ovK fr< trvixos Xoyoi. This seems to have been the beginning of another letter, written by our author S 2 '^1 ^^M4.)hJOy>m 'J i • Is I , 260 CICERO S EPISTLES not to be true. Dolabella indeed, writes lue, upon the 13th of ]\Iarch, from Brundusium, that Pompey was upon the point of sailing, and the day of his flight would be fortunate for Caesar. But this account is very different from that contained in the letters, of which I have be- fore sent you copies. Here indeed, it is rumoured that Caesar is determined to pursue and extermi- nate him ; but the intelligence is neither later, nor is the authority better, than that of Dolabella. EPISTLE XIIL On the 22d instant, I received your letter, in which you postpone the giving me any advice, until we can know what has been done. You are certainly in the right of it. For, indeed, at present, I cannot bring myself to think, far less to resolve, upon any thing. And yet Dolabella's letter invites me to resume my former thoughts. For the wind was very fair on tlie 18th, and Pom- pey, 1 suppose, availed himself of it. The quo- tations I collected from your letters, were not meant author after receiving one from Dolabella. The Greek here is an hemistic of the first line of a poetical recantation written by Stesichorus, after he was struck blind in consequence of com- posing some abusive verses upon Helen, and is mentioned by- Plato in his Phaedrus. TO ATTICUS. 261 meant in the way of complaint of you, but of comfort to mvself. For I was not so much vexed by my distresses, as by an apprehension that my ill conduct, or rashness, may have given offence. But now, my apprehension has subsided, be- cause my proceedings and conduct have been agreeable to your advices. You write me, that the obligations, I seem to be under to Pompey, are magnified by my own sense of gratitude, beyond his real merits. It is true, I have always exaggerated them, and the rather, that he may not think I retain the smallest memory of former grudges. But, supposing I did remember them, yet still his behaviour to- wards me, at that critical juncture, ought to be now my guide with regard to him. When it was in his power he gave me no assistance, but he was afterwards my friend to an excess, for what reason I know not ; I therefore ought to befriend him in my turn. In one circumstance our for- tunes are alike, that both of us have been de- ceived by the same men \ But I wish that it were in my power to do as much service to him, as he could have done to me ; I have, however, the most grateful sense of what he did. But at present, I know not how I can serve him in any respect, and if I could, I think I ought to assist ^ Meaning the optimates, or men of quality, such as Bibulus, Hortensius, and Lucceius, whom Cicero bitterly complamed of in the preceding letters. 1^ 262 CICEROS EPISTLES |. j^-J assist him in his preparations for this destructive ' war. All I mean, is not to give him umbrage at my remaining in Italy. But, by heavens, I cannot at the same time, be an eye witness to, I cannot bear a part in, those calamities which you may now figure to yourself. But I have been th^ more dilatory in my de- parture, because it is no easy task for a man to re- solve voluntarily to leave his country without the smallest hopes of seeing it again. For I perceive Caesar to be very strong in infantry, in cavalry, in shipping, and in auxiliaries from Gaul ; but Ma- tins, I believe, exaggerated their number, when he said they had engaged to maintain for him at their own expence, ten thousand foot, and six thou- ^nd horse. But, supposing this to be a boast, yet it is certain that he is very strong, and he will not, like Pompey be obliged to maintain them by extraordinary contributions, for he will have the riches of all Rome at his command. And add to this, the enterprizing spirit of Cassar ; the weak- ness of our patriots, who are enemies to the war, for no other reason, but, as you write, because they have given him just cause of disgust. Yet I wish you had pointed out the persons you meant by this hint. Ceesar, however, has been more moderate than he appeared to be at setting out, and the common people have lost the great affec- tion they had for Pompey. As to our corpora- tions and country gentlemen, they dread Pompey, and TO ATTICUS. 263 and hitherto they seem to be fond of Caesar. The situation therefore of the latter, is such, that supposing he is unable to conquer, yet I cannot see how he can be defeated. For my own part, I dread not so much the en- ticing persuasion, so much as the coercive power which this man possesses. For, as Plato says, the requests of princes always carry the necessity of complying with them. I perceive, you are against my remaining any longer in an inland sit- uation. This indeed, I do not myself like, but I am here undiscovered, and I was faithfully served. Could I have the same conveniences at Brundusium, I would choose to go thither. But I could not there remain without being dis- covered. However, as you write, we can come to no positive resolution till we are farther in- formed. I am not very anxious about apologizing for my conduct to the patriotic party. What a de- scription did Peduceus give me of the long entertainments they gave and received ! What elegancies, what luxuries were there ! Well, I will allow them to be patriots, but not better than myself; they would give me uneasiness were they in reality better. I was mistaken with regard to the house of Phameas at Lanuvinum ; I was dreaming of that at i.i &b4 CICEROS EPISTLES X at Troy ^ for which I formerly offered five hundred thousand serteces, but that is worth more. I could, however, wish that you would buy it, if you have the smallest hopes of being able to en- joy it. You perceive from this long letter which is swelled into a pamphlet, what strange things we see every day. Our friend Lentulus is quite in-r consolable at Puteoli, as Caecius tells me. He knows not how to proceed. He is afraid of incurring infamy from what happened at Corfi-. jiium. He thinks he has done as much as he ought for Pompey; he is impressed with the generosity of Caesar, but when he knows the whole truth, the impression will be more lively, Here I have a piece of news that will surprise you. This is the worst of all our miseries. Pompey has sent N. Magiqs to treat of peace tvith Caesar, and yet he continues to be besieged, I would not believe this, had I not yet received letters from Balbus, of which I send you copies. Read them, I beg of you, and especially the last paragraph from Balbus, that most deserving per- son^, whom our friend Pompey presented with the ground for building his country house, and whom he treated witli more distinction than he did any of us. It is on that account the poor gentleman ' This was a place in Italy, between Ardea Laurentura, an4 Antium, so called from a colonj established there by iEneas. '-^ This is ijrony. TO ATTICUS- £65 gentleman is tormented. But, that yod may not read the same thing twice over, I refer you to the letter itself. As to an accommodation, I have lost all hopes of it. Dolabella s letters of the 15th of March, breatiie nothing but w ar. Let me, therefore, remain fixed to my resolution, wretched and desperate as it is ; for nothing can be more wretched than my present situation. Balbus to Cicero, Commander in Chief, wisheth Froipcritif, V-/iESAR has sent me a very short letter, • of which I transmit yoit a copy. From its short- ness, you may perceive how very much he is hur- ried, as he has used so few words upon so weighty a subject. I will inform you farther when I receive any fresh intelligence. • ; CiRsar to Oppius and Balbus, wisheth Prosperity. k)^ the 9th of March, I arrived at Brundusium, and have invested it, Pompey is within the place. He sent N. Magius to me to treat of peace. I answered him as I thought"* proper. I was wil- ting you should be instantly informed of this. Wh§n I shall have any prospect of an accommo- dation, y p ^66 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 267 datipn, I will let you know without loss of time. Now my dear Cicero, it is impossible for you to conceive, how much I am tortured, now that I have again hopes of an accommodation, lest some accident should happen to prevent it. All I can do at this distance, is to express my wishes. Were I there in person, I might, perhaps, be of some use. At present, I am on the rack of im- patience. EPISTLE XIV. \Jn the 24th, I sent you copies of the letter to me from Balbus, and from Caesar to him, and the same day I received a letter from Q. Pedius, at Capua, informing me, that Caesar had written to him on the 14th of March, in the following terms. " Pompey keeps within the town. I am en- camped before the gates. We are attempting a great and a tedious work, on account of the depth of the sea ; but I had no choice left me. We are casting up mounds from both points of the harbour, in order to force Pompey to pass be- yond seas, with the troops he has at Brundusium or to block him up in the harbour." Where is now the accommodation, which Bal- bus said had put him upon the rack of impati- ence ? cnce ? What can be more bitter, what more cruei, than this intelligence ? It is even given out for certainty, that Caesar says, he will avenge the blood of C. Carbo, of M. Brutus \ and of all who were butchered by Sylla, in conjunction with Pompey ; that Curio does nothing by his orders which Pompey had not done by Sylla's, that he had restored^ to their rights of standing for public offices, those who could not by the old laws have suffered banishment ; but that Pom- pey had restored traitors from exile. That Cae- sar farther complains of Milo's being banished ' by force, but that he will offer no violence to any who 9,re not in arms against him. One Bae- bius, 1 Carbo was killed in Sicily by Pompey's order 5 and Marcus JBrutus, father of the famous Brutus, who headed the conspiracy by which Caesar fell, was killed by the same orders, after sur- rendering Modena to Pompey. 2 The original here is desperate, and I have translated it ac- cording to the most probable conjecture I could form. It is however necessary for the reader to know, that Pompey was under a kind of a necessity of proceeding severely by some new laws, which had passed against those who were guilty of public corruption, which was then excessive at Rome. 3 It has been objected to Caesar's character, notwithstanding Jiis complaining of Milo's banishment, that he did not recall Mijo when it was in his power to have done it. But I cannot see how this affects Caesar, since Milo might have been guilty, and a very dangerous citizen, and yet the measures taken by Pompey to over-awe his trial, might have been very unjustifia- ble 3 and in fact, our author tliought, and knew them to be so. •J : 268 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 269 bius, who was sent hither by Curio, on the 13th, and is a fluent speaker, talks of Caesar in a quite different strain, but nobody knows any thing of this same Baebius. I am absolutely at a loss how to proceed. I am convinced, Pompey is embarked before this time ; but we shall know all in two days. You have sent me no letters, even by Anteros; but, I am not surprised at that, for what can we write ? and yet, I write to you every day. P. S. Since writing the above, I received, be- fore daybreak, a letter from Lepta at Capua, witli an account, that Pompey embarked the 15th, and that by the 26th, Caesar would be at Capua. EPISTLE XV. After writing you the letter Avhich brought you the account, that Caesar was to be at Capua by the 26th, I received a letter from Capua, that he was to be at Curio's house, in Alba, on the 28th. As soon as I have seen him, I will go to Arpi. Should I obtain the indulgence I ask for, I will comply with his terms ; otherwise, I will follow a course of my own. He writes me, that he has posted one legion at Brundusium, another at Tarentum, and a third at Sipontum ; and the whole whole seem to me to be disposed in such a man- ner, as to block up every passage by sea ; while his own motions point towards Greece rather than Spain. But those are distant events. At present, I am uneasy about the manner of my meeting with him ; for the time is at hand, and I tremble with the dread of his first proceedings. I suppose, he will endeavour to obtain a resolu- tion of the senate ; and a sentence from the Au- gural college in his favour. I shall be either hurried with him to Rome, or plundered in my absence. He will authorize a praetor, to create the consuls, or name a dictator; both which proceedings are unconstitutional. If Sylla, how- ever, could from a regent procure himself the appellation of dictatoi', why may not Caesar do the same ? I can conclude upon nothing, but that I am in danger of being treated as a Q. Mu- cins by the one party, and as a L. Scipio by the other. By the time you have read this letter, I shall perhaps, have had a meeting with Caesar; You will perhaps reply, you have suffered heavier trials than these; No, not by my banishment. For tlien I was supported by the hopes of being speedily recalled; and by the discontent of the public. At present, I intend to leave Italy, without the smallest encouragement to hope, that I shall ever return. Our corporations, and country gentlemen, so far from being disconten- ted 270 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 271 ted with Caesar, are afraid of Pompey's cruelty and resentment. Notwithstanding all this, to stay with Caesar is what I most dread, and to be with Pompey is what I most desire ; to be his companion, not in fighting, but in flyings Meanwhile, you delayed giving me any advice, till we should know what had happened at Brun-» dusium. We know it now ; dnd yet I am as un- determined as ever. I can scarcely flatter myself that Ca?sar will give me the indulgence I am to solicit, notwith- standing all the strong reasons I shall urge to obtain it. But I will instantly send you a most exact and verbal account of our conversation, as soon as it shall happen. Do you, my friend, ex- ert all your affection to assist me, by your con* cern and wisdom. Caesar comes on so fast, that I cannot have a previous meeting with T. Rcbi- lus, as I proposed. I must proceed, without the smallest preparation ! and nmst speak what my own wisdom may dictate without the dread of that Nestor. Whatever I shall do you shall forth- with know. I have no copy of the proposals you ask for, sent by Caesar to the consuls, and to Pompey. While I was upon the road, I sent you those brought by Egypta, by which, I sup- pose, you may gather the substance of the others. Philip is at Naples, and Lentulus at Puteoli. Endeavour to learn where Domitius is, and what he intends to do. You I I You tell me that I have written in a harsher strain of Dionysius, than is usual with my natural temper; but you see by this how nmch I retain in me of the old Roman. Indeed, I thought that you would have been more sensibly affected, than I was, by his behaviour. For, not to men- tion that I imagine you ought to resent every injury offered to me ; that fellow, in some mea- sure, insulted you by behaving with so much in- solence towards me. But how far that may be any concern of yours, I leave to yourself; for I will not impose on you the burden of resenting my quarrels. For my own part, I hardly thought him in his senses, but now believe him a base rascal : And yet he has done more harm to himself than he has done to me. You have managed very well concerning Philargirus^ The cause you defended, had truth andjustice to support it, for he abandoned me rather than I him. After sending oft' my letter, of the 25th, the servants, whom I had sent to Matius and Tre- batius brought me a letter from them, of which the following is a copy. EPISTLE * This person seems to have been one, to whom Dionysius had complained of our author's treatment of him, and was set right by Atticus, :| f H : if nt CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 279 Matius and Trehatim to Cicero, Commander in Chiefs wi&h prosperity. Upon our leaving Capua, \vc understood oil the road, that, on the 17th of March, Pompey sailed from Brundusium, with the remaining part of his forces ; that, next day, Caesar entered that town; that he made a public harangue ; that he set out from thence to Rome, where he will arrive some time this month, and, after staying a few days, will proceed to Spain. As we have this account of Caesar's march from undoubted authority, I have thought proper to send back your servants, with the most early information of it to you. I have what you recommended to me very much at heart, and I will solicit it when op- portunity offers. You will see Trebatius Sca3- vola, before you see Csesar or me. P. S. Since writing what is above, we under- stand that Caesar will be at Beneventum on the 25th; on the 26th, at Capua; and on the 27th, at Sinuessa. You may depend upon the truth of this. fcPISTLE EPISTLE XVl. Though I h^ve nothing new to write you, yet i write this, that I may not let a day pass with- but sending you a letter. I heard that Caesar was to spend the 27th at Sinuessa : I received a letter from him, the d^y before, in which he tells me, he hopes to be assisted not by my property but by my influence \ After I had written him a letter of compliment upon his generous beha- viour at Corfinium, he sent me the following answer. Ctesar, Commander in Chiefs to Cicero, Commander in Chief, uisheth Prosperity, You know me too well to be mistaken in the judgment you have formed of my hating no- thing so much as I do cruelty. Now, besides the great pleasure, which 1 take in clemency as a vir- tue, it gives me triumph, it gives me joy, that yoa approve of my conduct I am not in the least concerned at the report, th^t they, whom I re- stored 1 There is a low jingle in the original. Jam opes meas, non, ut superiorilus litteris, opem expectat. • Vol. IL T ■ V, 274 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 275 tored to liberty, have gone off, that they might renew the war against me. For I wish for no- thing more than that both they, and I, should act like ourselves. I earnestly desire you to be at Rome, that I may continue, in all my mea- sures, to make use of your counsels and your aid. You must know that I hold in high estimation Dolabella your son-in-law. I hope he will com- ply with me in this request, and indeed such is his politeness, his good sense, and his kindncsj* for me, that he cannot do otherwise ^ EPISTLE XVn. \Js the 28th, the date of this letter, I expect the arrival of Trebatius. I will determine upon the manner of addressing Caesar by wliat I shall learn from him, and from the letters of Matius. Mortifying situation ! for he doubtless will press me to come to Rome. For when he was at For- miae, he publicly intimated his pleasure for a full senate, to assemble by the 1st of April, Shall I then refuse him ?— But why should I an- ticipate matters. — ^I will not lose a moment in ♦ writing I * It is hard to say whether the magnanimity,. of politeness of Caesar, in this letter is most conspicuous, or wliether our au- thor's criticism, which we observed in the last note, or his dis^ trust, if he did distrust Caesar, is most absurd. writing to you. I will resolve, according to my conversation with him, whether I shall go to Arpi, or to some other place. I intend to give my son the manly robe at that place. I beg you to turn your thoughts to what I shall do after- wards, for vexation has rendered me quite stupid. I want to know whether Curius has written any thing to you concerning Tyro. For, according to what Tvro writes to me himself, I am appre- hensive of his health. They who have seen him give me little satisfaction ; and let me tell you, that even this is no small addition to my other great afflictions ; for his care and assiduity would . be extremely useful to me in my present situ- ation. EPISTLE XVIIL X HAVE followed your advice^ in both points. For my conversation with Caesar, was such as might ^ The reader cannot but observe, from this letter, how much our author's stile is influenced by his situation. He speaks as one out of breath, after a terrible fright in half broken, short sen- tences. Meanwhile I am still confirmed in my former opinion, that though his attendance at Rome, would have been of use to Caesar, yet that Caesar did not think him of so much import- ance as'he seems to imagine himself to be. Even our author's firmness, T2 ■I HI i |: 276 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 277 might ratlier induce him to have a high opinion of my integrity, than to return me thanks for my compliance. I remain firm in declining to go to Rome. I was, however, mistaken in thinking he would be compliable \ Never did I see a man less so. He told me, that my refusal was a con- demnation of his conduct, and that my not going to Rome would keep others back. My answer was, that my case and theirs differed widely. After much talk ; Then come, said he, and set on foot an accommodation. What, upon my own terms ? You are sure, replied he, I will not prescribe to you. Then, I will endeavour, said I, to persuade the senate to oppose your going to Spain, and your transporting your army into Greece. I will enlarge, continued I, in the most pathetic firmness, and Cacsar*s behaviour to him, confirm the suspicion. For if he talked in the steady manner he here represents, and if it was of such importance for Caesar to have him at Rome, and not to join Pompey, we cannot imagine he would have suf- fered him to depart at liberty. The truth is, there is a wide difference between the compliments, and the sentiments, of so great a man as C?esar was. It is possible Pompey would have been a little more serious with our author 5 but Caesar, who had a passion for that true glory which descends to posterity, wanted to win Cicero, rather than make him his enemy, if k could be done without prejudice to his ambition. ^ Orig. Facilis. If Caesar was so very ineompliable, ho>f came he to leave our author at liberty to act as he pleased, after he had so fr;uikly declared his sentiments to be against all his measures. pathetic manner, upon the fate of Pompey. These are matters, says Caesar, which I will not have mentioned. So I thought, answered I ; but I will not be present^ because 1 must either men- tion these matters, and many others, M'hich I shall indispensably be obliged to do, if I should appear at Rome, or I must not go thither. At last, to get rid of the subject, he desired me to take time to consider. 1 could not refuse that, and thereupon we parted. I am, therefore, con- vinced, that Caesar does not love me. But I love myself, and that is more than I have been used to do for a long time \ But to change the subject, what a train accom- panies him. In the deadly band, as you used to call his adherents, was the freedman of Eros Celer. In what a ruinous cause is he embarked ! What desperate troops he heads ! There might be seen the son of Servius, here the son of Titi- nianus. What a crew was there in the camp which blockaded Pompey ! Caesar was there at the head of six legions ; he is vigilant, he is daring, I see ho end of our calamities. Now, if ever, you are to ^ This is one of the many beautiful reflections which arise from nature and the honesty of the heart, and distinguish our author's letters to Atticus beyond any epistolary compositions, either ancient or modem. For my own part, I cannot help wishing that he had oftener than he did, laid aside the man of learning, and the statesman, for he is always the great man, when uninfluenced by fear or vanity. 278 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATITCUS. 279 to give me your advice, for this- is the last crisis. Caesar threw out, however, at the close, an alarm- ing situation, I had almost forgotten " if he was debarred from the advantage of my counsels, he would take advice from others w here he could get it, and that he would hesitate at nothing. You will ask me, have you then seen the man ? I have seen him just as you had described him. Did you not sigh? I certainly did. Well, tell the rest of the sequel. I have nothing farther to add. He instantly went to Pedum ^, and I to Arpi. There I will wait for the return of the swallows^ Meanwhile, you will say, you ought not to harass yourself with what cannot be helped. But alas ! I am about to follow a leader who has committed many gross blunders. Well, I wait for your letters. We have not now the re- source we used to have, of examining how things will turn out. My meeting with Caesar, was to be the period of our deliberation, and as I doubt not of his being much dissatisfied with it, we are, consequently, 1 This was a city of Latium, lying between Tybur^.Praeneste and Tusculanum. * Orig. hatXaytv in two favourite measures, he was forced to throw off the mask ; for he laid aside his gentleness, in X 2 his 308 CICEROS EPISTLES gv his behaviour to Metellus, and he confessed his poverty when he plundered the treasury. Con- sider, besides, the character of his associates or servants in power, for not one of those, to whom he must entrust the management of provinces abroad, and of the government at home, was able, for two months, to manage his own pri- vate concerns. Your own sagacity will supply other reflections, which I cannot here collect together. Take a cool survey, however, of what I have laid before you, and you must conclude that Caesars reign can scarcely last for six months. But should I be deceived, 1 will bear with my disappoint- ments, as many other illustrious Republicans have done before me, unless you should suppose that, like another Sardanapalus, I should choose to die upon my couch, rather than go into a glorious exile, like Themistoclcs, who according to Thu- cydides, could form the most accurate judgment of present, and the most probable conjecture of future events. And yet had this great man been mistaken, he might have avoided the misfortunes he afterwards encountered. Yet he was mista- ken, though, according to the same historian, he could discern, beyond other men, the right and wrong in conduct, while yet veiled in their ef- fects. Notwithstanding his superior discernment, be could not find out means to escape the envy of the Lacedaemonians, and his own countrymen, or TO ATllCUS. 109 or to get rid of his engagements with Artaxerxes. Never had that night been fatal to Africanus' though the wisest of men, or the victories of Syl- la so bitter to the artful Marius, if neither of them had ever been mistaken in his measures. Meanwhile, I remain firm in my belief of the oracular maxim above-mentioned. Never will it deceive me, never can it happen otherwise : Ceesar must fall, either by his enemies or of him- self ; for he is, to himself, the greatest of all ene- mies ; I am in hopes to live to see that day. But it is now time for me to think upon an immortal rather than a perishable life. For, should my days be abridged, it makes but little difference with me, whether I see this tyranny already es- tablished, or foresee its establishment in a time yet long to come. As these are my sentiments, my chief concern should be not to obey those men, against whom the senate has armed me, by en- trusting to me, the commonwealth in a season of extreme danger \ You are now possessed of all the particulars which give me concern ; and such is your affec- tion for me, that, had I not requested it, you would have interested yourself in them. Indeed I know 1 He was privately strangled upon his couch, in the night time, but the murderer was never found out. ^ Because he had not entered Rome after his return fron Cae- licia, and was supposed to be one of those commanders in chief to whom that commission was addressed. 310 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 311 I know of nothing farther I have to write you ; I wait only for a fair wind to sail. And yet I can- not help saying, that I never had more reason to write, than when I am to tell you, as I do now, that, of all your expressions of friendship to me, none gives me greater pleasure, than that most endearing kindness and concern you have taken with regard to my daughter. It gives her, as well as me, the most sensible pleasure, and let me tell you, that her firmness of mind is worthy of admiration. With what fortitude does she bear the misfortunes of the public, and with what in- difference the little asperities in her domestic con- cerns. But, above all, what spirit does she shew, at this time, when I am obliged to leave her. Notwithstanding our mutual attachment and sympathy, yet still her main concern is, that I should act, and that mankind should speak of me with honour. — But not too much of thiS; lest I should begin to melt. While I am here, I beg that you will write me what you hear from Spain, or concerning other matters, and I perhaps, may send you some news before my departure, especially as my daughter believes that you have not left Italy on this occa- sion. I must try to obtain from Antony the same favour I obtained from Curio, and get liberty to retire to Malta, upon my promising to take no part in this war. I wish I can find hini as as condescending, and as obliging to me, as Curio was. It is reported, that he was to arrive at Mycenum the 2d of May, but he sent me before- hand, a letter, which is far from giving me plea- sure, and of which the following is a copy. Antoninus, Tribune of the People, Froprcetor, to Cicero, Commander in Chief, wisheth Prosperity. If my affection for you were not even greater than you imagine, I should not have been so alarmed at a rumour which prevails respecting you, especially as I think it to be false. But, because I love you beyond measure, I am forced to own, that I think report is of great conse- quence, even though it be unfounded. I cannot believe that you are about to go beyond sea, as you have such a value for Dolabella, and for Tullia, your excellent daughter, and as you are held in such high estimation by us all, that, your dignity and honour, are, I solemnly aver, almost dearer to us, than they are to yourself. And yet, I did not think myself at liberty, as a friend, to disregard the talk, even of worthless men, be- cause I thought my conduct towards you ought to be the more delicate, on account of our for- mer differences, which arose rather from jealousy in i 312 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. SIS in me, than from any demerit in you. I there- fore beg you will believe, that, excepting my friend Caesar, there is no man whom I hold more dear than yourself; and you may be convinced, at the same time, that Caesar has a particular regard and friendship for Marcus Cicero. Therefore, my dear Cicero, 1 beg that you will enter into no engagements, and that you will disregard the friendship of a man who first did you an injury, that he might afterwards put you under obligations to him ; and on the other hand, that you will not fly from the man, who, suppo- sing him (which is impossible) not to love you, desires you to remain in safety, and in full pos- session of your honours. I have sent my veiy good friend Calphurnius, as my special messen- ger, to let you know how very great my concern is about your life and dignity. The same day Philotimus brought me a letter trom Caesar, in the following words : Casar, Commander in Chief, to Cicero, Commander in Chiefs wisheth Prosperity. JL HOUGH I am convinced you will do nothing that is rash, nothing that is imprudent, yet so much am I impressed with public report, that I thought proper to write to you, to beg of you, by / by our mutual affection, that you will make no advances in a cause that is now tottering, after declining to make any, even while it stood firm. My successes, and the defeats of my adversary have been so very great, that you will both sen- sibly violate my friendship, and hurt your own interest, if you do not follow fortune. It will not be thought that you embrace their cause (for that is the same as when you declined to assist in their counsels) but that I have done something which you have condemned ; which is the most severe thing that can happen to me from you ; and I conjure you, by that friendship which you owe to me not to do it In the last place, what is more suitable to the character of a worthy, peaceable man, and a good citizen, than to take no concern in civil dissentions ? This is a con- duct which some approved of, but could not follow because of danger. After you have seriously reflected on the tenor of my actions, and the evidences of my friendship, you will find no course more safe, or honourable for you to pursue, than to decline having any hand in this dispute. Dated the l6th of April on the road. EPISTLE IX. JL HE arrival of Philotimus, whose repeated false- hoods in behalf of Pompey, prove his want of prudence i 314 CICERO'S EPISTLES prudence and regard for truth, has overwhelmed me and all my friends. As to myself, I am pe- trified. We were, all of us, persuaded, that Caesar had slackened his progress, but now he is said to have given it wings. We heard that Petreius had joined Afranius, but that news is now far from being confirmed. In short, we are here of opinion, that Pompey, at the head of a great army, has passed through lUyria to Germany, and this news is said to be founded on indisputable authority. I am therefore of opi- nion, that I ou^t to retire to Malta till matters come to a crisis in Spain ; and I can find it, from Caesar's letters, to be pretty much his sense that I should do so, for he tells me, that I can do no- thing more honourable, or safe, than to decline having any hand in the dispute. Where, say you, is all the spirit you showed in your last letters? I possess it still undiminished. But I wish to heaven that my difficulties reached no farther than exposing my own life. I am some- times melted by the tears of my family, who entreat me to wait for news from Spain. I have a letter from Marcus Cajlius containing the same request ; it is written in a most pathetic strain, conjuring me, not rashly, to betray to misery, my fortunes, my only child, and all my friends ; our boys could not help crying bitterly when they read this letter. My son is, indeed, the most resolute, and, for that reason, he gives me with TO ATTICUS. 515 y with the greater concern, for his chief care is, that I may act with honor. To Malta therefore, let me go, and from thence — where you please. Do you, however, even at this time, continue to write me, especially if you hear any thing con- cerninty Afranius. If I shall have any conversa- tion with Antony, I will write to you what has passed, but I will take your advice, not hastily to believe him. It would be both difficult and dan- gerous for me to conceal myself in Italy. I wait for Servius, till the 7th, at the request of his wife and the younger Servius. I am glad that your ague is abated. I have likewise sent you the copy of my letter from Caeliu% Cg^Uus to Cicero, Health. Becoming quite distressed by your letters, which discover that you think of nothing, but what is very dismal, without fully explaining what it is, (though I cannot say that you have not given me a hint as to the nature of what troubles you) I immediately wrote you this letter. My dear Cicero, I beg and conjure you, by your fortunes and by your children, to form no resolution inconsistent with your welfare and dignity. I assure you by all that is solemn, that l^v'hat I have foretold you was no groundless inti- mation. :.i f >i i 316 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 317 mation, but the result of undoubted intelligence upon my having an interview with Caesar, and learning what his sentiments would be, should he be successful. If you imagine that Caesar will hereafter follow the same maxims of con- duct, by releasing his enemies and offering terms of peace, you are mistaken. He now meditates, he now speaks, nothing but what is terrible and vindictive. He has left the senate in a passion, and it is certain, he is stung with the opposition he has met with ; nor, indeed, will there be hereafter any means left of appeasing him. If therefore, you love yourself, if you love your only son, your family, if your hopes of what is to come are dear to your mind, if we, if your excellent son-in-law have any influence with you, vou will not desire to ruin our fortunes, or to force us, upon the cruel alternative of hating and forsaking the party upon whose success our own safety depends, or of impiously harbouring a thought prejudicial to your welfare. You are likewise to reflect, that you have already, by your hesitation, incurred all you can incur of Pom- pey's displeasure; and to declare yourself against Caesar, now that his success is certain, after re- fusing to oppose him when it was doubtful ; to follow a party that is routed, after declining it tvhen it made a stand, is the height of madness. Take care my friend, lest, while you are afraid of of not appearing patriotic, you mistake the na- ture of true patriotism. But if I cannot bring you wholly over to my sen- timents, let me prevail with you, at least, to wait the result of what passes in Spain ; which, I fore- tel to you, will fall into our hands as soon as Caesar appears there ; and what hopes the other party can have, if they lose Spain, I am no more able to discover, than I am your object in join- in» those who are defeated. Caesar had heard what you declined communicating to me, and our first compliments were scarcely over, when he informed me of all he had heard. I pretended to be ignorant, yet I begged of him to write to you in such a manner, as might induce you to remain in Italy. He carries me with him into Spain, which is the only reason why, before I came to Rome, I did not hasten to you where- ever you might be, and in person labour with the greatest earnestness for your continuing in Italy. Think, my dearest friend, again and agam, be- fore you utterly ruin yourself and your family, nor deliberately plunge into a ruin, from whence you can see no means to escape. If you are im- pressed by what the nobility, on the one side, may say; if you are unable to bear the insolence and arrogance of certain persons on the other side, my opinion is, that you should choose some town that is not affected by this war, and reside there till the present dispute is over, which will soon take i 318 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 319 take place. Should you do this, I shall tliin^k you have acted wisely, and at the same time, you will give no offence to Caesar. EPISTLE X. JjLow blind was I not to foresee what has now happened ! I send you Antony's letter. I fre- quently assured you by letter that I was not opposing the views of Caesar ; that I would have joined Pompey, if it were not for the regard which I feel for my son-m-law, and for the friendship of Caesar ; that, nevertheless, I had some thoughts, though not a fixed resolution : of leaving Italy, because I hated to be parading about with my lictors. Now you will see what a surly answer he returns me. " Your conduct is by no means candid and explicit. For that man who desires to be neu- tral, remains in his country ; the man who goes abroad, seems to have formed some judgment of the one party or the other. But I am not any longer at liberty to judge whether it is right or wrong for you to leave Italy. My charge from Caesar is to suffer no man to leav^ it on any account. There is, therefore, no merit and and no importance in my approving of your resolution, since I must act up to the letter of my orders. My opinion is, that you should send to Caesar, and ask that favour of him ; I have no doubt of your obtaining it, especially as you promised to have a regard for my friendship." TTiis is the whole of his laconic ^ epistle \ I must, by all means, elude this man ^ He was to arrive here in the evening of the 3d instant, and therefore, perhaps, he will come to my house to- morrow. I will endeavour to mislead him*. I will ^ Or Laconic Mandate, both because it was short, and be- cause the Lacedaemonians had a peculiar way of conveying their orders to their* generals. .* Orig. (rxvTaXijvAaxwvixrv. The Lacedaemonian /Scy/aZ^ which appears to be the parent of our Schedule is accurately described by A. Gellius, lib. xvii. 9. and also by Plutarch, whose account, as being shorter, I will here copy. " The Lacedaemonians commanded Lysander home by their Scytale, the nature and use of which was this: When the magistrates gave their com- mission to any admiral or general, they took two round pieces of wood, both exactly equal in breadth and thickness: one they kept themselves, the other they delivered to their officer, so that when they had any thing of moment which tliey would secretly convey to him, they cut a long narrow scroll of parch- ment, and rolling it about their own staff, one fold close upon another, they wrote their business on it. When tiiey had writ- ten what they had to say, they took off the parchment, and sent it to the general — he applied it to his o^n staff. — E. ^ Orig. Omnino excipiam hominem. 4 Orig. The original here is very perplexed, and nothing cer- lain can be made out of it. : ■ 320 CICERO'S EPIStLES TO ATTICU6. 3S1 will tell him, that I am far from being in any hurry, and try to persuade him that I will write to CzBsar. I will tlien withdraw privately with a very small retinue, and I make no doubt of getting off, and eluding their most vigilant searches. I wish I knew where to find Curio. — ■ With the assistance of fortune I shall succeed. My anguish is very great, but I hope my conduct will be worthy of myself. I am greatly concerned at your complaint*, I beg you will take some remedy for it in the infancy of the disease. I am pleased with what you write me concerning those of Mar- seilles ^ Continue, I pray you, to inform me of whatever you learn. I could wish to go to Sicily, if I could do it in the public manner I had concerted with Curio. Here I wait for Servius Sulpicius, at the request of his wife and son, and I think it will be necessary for us all. As to Antony, he carries about with him the actress Cytheris' in one open carriage, and his wife in another; he has likewise seven close carriages, in which are conveyed his female, or perhaps, his male favourites. You see what a melancholy death we are likely to meet; nor, I think, 1 The complaint was, as the original implies, ^uaov^tx a dif- ficulty of urine, in consequence of the stone or the gravel. — E. 2 They had their gates shut agauist Caesar. 3 She was a tamous courtezan, and the same whom Virgil mentions under the name of Lycoris. think, can th^re be a doubt of Caesar's making a general massacre upon his return, whether he ^ returns victorious or vanquished. ' For my own part, if I cannot find a ship, I will escape in a bark from these assasins of their country ; but I will write you farther after seeing Antony. I cannot help loving my nephew ; but I can plainly see that I am not beloved by him. Never did I see any creature so perverse in his dispo- sitions, so regardless of his relations, and so unaccountable in his notions. The torrent of my affliction is intolerable. But I take care of iiim, and shall do so, as you require me ; his genius is wonderful, and pains must be takers to form his morals* EPISTLE XT. ,M^Y last letter for you being sealed, I did not choose to send it by the bearer I proposed, be- cause he was a stranger • I therefore did not deliver it that day. Meanwhile, Philotimus ar- rived and brought me a letter from you. As to my brother's character which you mention in that letter, I know him to be somewhat irresolute, but he has ^nothing about him that is insincere, nothing that is deceitful, nothing that is incapa- ble of being directed to the best purposes, and Vol. II. Y nothing -1.1 "^1 I 322 CICERO'S EPISTLES •nothing that you may not set to right with one fair word. In short, though he is very often in a passion with his friends, yet he love& them all dearly, and mc, he loves beyond himself. As to his writing to you' of your nephew, in a diffe- rent strain from what he wrote to your sister of her son, I think there is nothing in that. What you write me concerning the young man s jour- ney, and your sister, is the more vexatious, be- cause the juncture is such, that it is not in my power, as it would otherwise be, to remove the inconveniences you mention. But you see how wretched is our situation, and how desperate are our affairs. As to the money matter between you and my brother (who often speaks of it to me) he does not want the inclination, but the means, to pay you. But if, now that I am flying, Q. Axius does not pay me the thirteen thousand serteces, which I lent hi3 son when he was going to be married, and excuses himself on account of the times ; if Lepta, if others do the same, I own I cannot help bemg surprised at your pressing my brother so hard, for the paltry sum of twenty thousand serteces. For, take my word for it, he is as much straightened as he appears to be, and yet he has aiven orders for that payment to be made to you. Do you ascribe his delay to the love of 'money, and his unwillingness to part with it? No TO ATTICUS. 323 No man is less so. But enough concerning my brother. As to his son, the father, no doubt^ indulged him always too much ; but then indulgence does not instil the principles of falsehood, avarice, and hatred of relations ; of haughtiness, arro- gance, and intractability. But he likewise pos- sesses the bad qualities which arise from indul- gence ; but these are to be forgiven : for some allowances should be made for his being so young a man. As to his other bad qualities, I love him so well, that they give me more disquiet than my own present calamities. They do not arise from my indul b ouce. --By no means. — They are rooted in his nature, and yet, were I at liberty, I could eradicate them. I3ut so unfortunate are the times, that I must bear with every thing. As to my own boy, I manage him with great ease; for nothing can be more tractable than he is. It was from compassion to him, that my conduct has been hitherto so unactive, and the more de- sirous he was that I should exert myself, I was the more afraid, lest my resolution might be cruelty to him. Antony came to this place last evening. Per- haps he will pay me a visit, and perhaps not, be- cause he signified his mind to me in writing. But vou shall know without delay what happens. At present I keep myself very retired, but what shall I do with the boys? Should I put them on Y 2 board 524. CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 325 board a small bark, what anxiety must I feel on their voyage ; for I remember what pangs I felt, even in the summer time, when they sailed in a flat-bottomed Rhodian boat'. Then what must be now my concern should they be at sea in the severe season? I am surrounded with miseries. Trebatius was with me. He is a kind friend, and a good patriot; what dreadful ac- counts, good heavens, did he give me! Even Balbus aspires to a seat in the senate. But I will give Trebatius himself a letter for you to- morrow. You tell me, Vectenus is my friend, I therefore believe him to be so ; though I joked a little too severely with him upon his writing to me in a peremptory manner concerning his money. If he took that otherwise than I meant it, I beg you will soften him. In the address of my letter to him, I call him no other than a monied man, and in return he addressed me only as proconsul. But as he is a man of sense, and has an affection for me, I cherish the same for him. -Farewel. EPISTLE XII. W^HAT will become of me ? Is there a wretch, is there a man, on earth, I will not say more dis- tressed,, 1 «^«xr« in an open boat. tressed, but more disgraced than I am ? Antony says, that Caesar gave him a particular charge concerning me, and this he told to Trebatius, for as yet he has not seen me. What shall I do ? For nothing prospers with me, and my best con- certed schemes are frustrated. For, in gaining Curio, I thought I had succeeded in every thing. He had written in my favour to Hortensius ; the commanding officer at Rliegium was entirely in my interest, but little did I think that Antony had the least notion of my designing to escape by sea. Whither now shall I turn me ? I am hemmed in on every side.— But no more tears- Let me embark, unfavourable as the season is ; let me privately creep into some transport vessel, for I must, by all means, take care not to afford any pretence for saying, that my voyage is stop- * ped from a concerted plan of my own. I must sail for Sicily, and after reaching it, I shall de- termine what farther views to pursue, provided that matters succeed in Spain. At the same time, I wish that what we heard from Sicily may be true, though I cannot say it is as yet very pro- bable. It is said, that the Sicilians, in crowds, resorted to Cato, and entreated him to make a stand, and promised they would give him all the assistance in their power; that roused by their patriotism, he began to raise men. I do not believe this news, for the authority on which it rests is very doubful I am, however, entirely convinced, ,326 CICERO'S EPISTLES convinced, that that province is tenable. But we must hear news from Spain. Caius INIarcellus is in this neighbourhood, in the same predicament with myself, unless indeed, he greatly dissembles. I have not, however, seen him, but I have heard of him from one of his most intimate friends. I beg you will write me, if you have any news ; and as soon as I come to any fixed resolution, I will instantly %vrite to you. I will exercise a stricter discipline than ever over the younger Quintus. I beg you will destroy the letters in which I have mentioned him to you in too harsh a manner, and I will do the same by yours, for fear any thing should transpire. I wait for Servius, but I expect no firmness from him. You shall know what passes between us, whatever it may be. It is but just, that I should acknowledge my- self in an error. But did I mistake only in one instance ? Or rather, have not all my measures, however deliberately planned, proved unsuc- cessful. But let me forget my past misfortunes, and endeavour only to prevent future miscar- riages. You desire me to weigh all the conse- quences of my flight What consequences ? — All that can happen are so plain, that should I avoid them, I must here remain in disgrace and , distress; and should I despise them, lam in dan- ger of falling into the hands of ruffians. But consider in what misery I am. Sometimes I am tempted TO ATITCUS, S£7 tempted to wish to receive some injurious treat- ment from Cesar's party, that I may appear to be hated by the tyrant But, if the way. which 1 wished to escape by, had been open before me, I might then have done somewhat, which, ac- cording to your wish and desire, might have jus- tified my dUatoriness. But I am watched with surprising strictness, and I suspect even Curio himself"- I must, therefore, proceed either by force or cunning; if by force, I may encounter a storm in my passage; if by cunning, I may be overreached by them ; and in case 1 do not suc- ceed what a stigma would it fix on my repu- tation. Honour impels me to Pompey, nor must 1 decline the most hazardous enterprises. I often revolve with myself the example of CfElius Caldus. Could I act any way like him,. I would lay aside my resolution of flying. I hope that Spain is still firm in our interest The beha- viour of those of Marseilles is not only of great advantage to our cause, but a proof to me, that things go well in Spain ; because if they did not, and* if the Marseillians knew so much, they would not venture to act as they have done ; for they lie near Spain, and have good intelligence. I agree with you, that what happened in the theatre was a sure proof of the people's hatred of Caesar. I perceive, that the legions, which he raised m Italy, are very ill disposed to him. But he has Bot a greater foe than he is to himself You . rightly 3&S CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 329 rightly fear his abandoning himself to all ex- cesses, which he certainly will do, if he grows desperate. This is the reason why I ought to attempt something in the spirit of Caelius, but I hope with better success. But you shall instantly know the step which I shall first take. I will discipline the younger Quintus, and decline no trouble in reforming him ; for he has good dispositions, and if he had not ; yet they might be acquired by cultivation, unless indeed, you maintain tliat virtue is not an acquired, but an instinctive principle. EPISTLE XIIL JL OUR letter was most agreeable to my daugh-^ ter, and indeed, to myself; every thing you writo affords me jJeasure; continue therefore, to write whatever can give us hope. You have no reason to dread the lions ^ of Antony. Surely no man ever affords more merriment I will give you a sketch of his conduct as a statesman. He had issued letters for the Decurions'^ of the corpora- rations * It appears from this passage, that Pliuy and Plutarch were mistaken in saying, that Antony did not drive his chariot with lions before the battle of Pharsalia. * There is a great variety of readings ; here I have followed that of Minutius, as making the better sense. to attend him, and accordingly the four magis- trates went to his villa early in the morning. But, in the first place, Antony slept till it was nine oVlock, and afterwards, when he was told that the Neapolitans and Cumeans (for Caesar is most incensed at them) were attending him, he or- dered them to return next day, because he was about to bathe, and to take physic. This past yesterday. Now, to-day he intends to go over to the island Anaria.^ He is very positive, that all exiles will be recalled. But I will leave that subject, for somewhat that concerns my- self. I received a letter from Axius. Thanks con- cerning Tyro. Vectenus has acted like my friend. Vestorius, I have paid. Servius is said to have lain at Minturnae the 6th of May: to-day he was to be at the house of Caius Marcellus, in Liter- num'. Early to-morrow morning he will visit me, and furnish me with fresh matter for a letter, and now I have written you all I have to say \ One thing I am surprised at, that I have not received so much as one messenger from Antony, especially 1 This lay upon the coast of Campania. Its modern name i% Jschia. 2 This lay on the sea side, between Cumae and Minturnae. 3 The conciseness of this paragraph is very remarkable, though very natural to a man in Cicero's condition, who hur- ries over the mention of private affairs, because of his attention to tliose of the public. 830 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 331 especially as he has been so complaisant to,me hi-» tljierto. Perhaps he is unwilling to deny to my face, that he has received some inore severe orders with regard to me. But I neither would have asked his favours, nor would I have trusted them, if he granted any. I must thmk of somewhat. I be- seech you to let me know, if you hear any thing from Spain; for now is the time for receiving in- telligence from that quarter, and the expectation of every body here is so great, that if good news should come, they think every thing would be over with Caesar. For my part, I think, that by our keeping Spain, the war will neither be finished in our favour, nor will our losing it ren- der our affairs desperate. I believe somewhat has happened to keep back Silius, Ocella, and some others. I perceive, that you likewise, are detained by Curtius, though, if 1 mistake not, you have a passport EPISTLE XIV, W HAT a miserable life this is ! The evil we fear is less tormenting than is the long continu- ance of that fear. Servius, as I wrote you be- fore, after coming to Literna the 7th of May, paid me a visit the next day. That I may not keep you in suspense, we have not agreed upon the execution of any one measure, ^ever did I see a man in such a dreadful consternation. And vet indeed, all his fears are well grounded.-That Pompey was incensed at him-that Caesar was not his friend— that the consequences of victory to either of them would be terrible— that the one was cruel, the other audacious; but above all that both of them must be in want of money, and that it was impossible for them to be supplied, but by the plunder of private property. During all this conversation, he wept so much, that I was suprised the long continuance of his sorrows did not exhaust his tears. As to myself, the de- fluxion of my eyes, which hinders me to write to you with my own hand, is not occasioned by weep- m.lti*i' 344 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 345 Rome, nor do I know where he is. Therefore all my hopes of keeping my credit, and retriev- ing my private affairs, must rest on your kind- ness, which I have so much reason to be con- vinced of. Should you continue to afford me that, at this critical season, which is so full of misery and distress, I can bear with the greater courage all those dangers which are in com- mon to me with others. I therefore implore and beseech the continuance of your friendship. I have in Asiatic coin two million two hundred thousand serteces*. By getting that money ex- changed for the coin current in our country, you may easily support my credit. If I had not confided in a man^ whom you long ago mistrust- ed, that my credit was unquestionable when I eft Italy, I should have taken some more time, and not have left my affairs in such disorder ; and the reason, why I have been so long in writing to you is, because, I have but lately learnt the confusion they are in. I conjure you in the most earnest manner, to take upon your- self the whole weight of maintaining my credit. So, that if the party to which I am joined should be successful, I may be restored with them to all my honours, and may have an opportunity to ^ In Cistophoro in Asia. Vide vol. i. page 113, for an ex- planation of the word Cistophorus. This Money was part of the arreara due to our author as governor of Silicia. • This was Philotimus. to own, that for that enjoyment I am obliged to your friendship. EPISTLE II. On the 4th of February I received your letter, and that very day I executed the deed, by which 1 accepted the heirship^ I am now freed from one of my many distresses, if, as you write, that estate is sufficient to preserve me in credit and reputation, though, I perceive, that had it not happened, you would have done the same out of your own private purse. As to what you write concerning my daughter's portion-, I con- jure 1 Or'i^ Eoque ipse die ex testamento crevi kereditatem. Atticus li'ad informed our author that a certain person had made him (Cicero) his heir ; and in that case, the law required that Cicero should accept of the heirship in a certain time, which was done by a special deed, in the following form; Cum me N. hceredem instituerit, earn hareditatem adeo cernoque. 2 When Cicero^s daughter was divorced from Crassipes, the latter was at liberty by law, to return her fortune at three payments, which was to go to Dolabella her second hus- band. Dolabella having sided with Caesar, and being so exces- sively profuse, that he had spent his whole private estate, our author was in great perplexity, whether he should pay the re- mainder of his daughter's fortune, which was to be returned by Crassipes to Dolabella, or not ; because, in case of a di- vorce, which was very probable, between her and Dolabella, she \ r. Km % 46 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATXICUS. 347 jure you, by all that is sacred, to take the whole of that affair upon yourself, and to supply my daughter, who is rendered unhappy through my misconduct and heedlessness, out of my estate, if I have any remaining, or out of yours, so far as you can do it without distressing yourself. You write me, that she wants even the neces- saries of life, I entreat you let her do so no longer. How, or upon whom, have the rents of my estates been employed. No body ever told me, that the sixty thousand serteces were de- ducted out of her restored fortune. It was what I never would have suffered. But this is the least of the many wrongs I have received, and which my grief and my tears prevent my men- tioning to you in writing.- I have taken up one moiety of the money which I had in Asia; I thought it would be more safe where it is, than with the farmers of the revenue. You exhort me to keep up my spirits ; I wish you could give me some motive to enable me to do so. But if, to crown all my other distresses, the news which Chrysippus told me concerning my house (and of which you mentioned nothing) should be true, is there a man she must be left destitute. Mean^\h^le, Terentia, Cicero's ■viife, who was a very bad manager, had laid her hand upon some part of the money returned by Crassipes, so that Dola- bella had not received the full first payment, which farther added lo our author's uneasiness. I2ian on earth more wretched than I am ? I be- seech you to forgive me, but I can write no far- ther. You surely are now sensible with what a weight of affliction I am pressed. Were it in common to me with others who are embarked in the same cause, my misfortune would admit of some alleviation, and therefore would not affect me so much ; but now I have no manner of con- solation, except the hopes that, by your means, if such a thing is yet practicable, there will be nothing peculiarly affecting and distressing in my case. My delay in sending off* this bearer was una- voidable. I received from your people seventy thousand serteces, with the apparel I had occa- sion for. I beg that you will write in my name (as you are acquainted with all my friends) to all you think proper. If they should require their letters to be under my hand and seal, you may tell them, that I avoid these tokens, because I am so narrowly watched. EPISTLE III. JL ou may know from the person who delivered me Vour letter the state of affairs here. I de- tained him the longer, because we were every day looking for something new ; nor, indeed, have ■I Is: i\ 5 - ;*■ \ 348 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 349 have I any reason for dispatching him off now, but to reply to what you wanted to know. With regard to the first of July^, how hard is it in these hard times to risk so much money, and in the present state of our uncertainty, how can the divorce you speak of take place ? There- fore, I commit this amongst my other concerns in a more special manner to your friendship and kindness, and to my daughter's prudence and inclination. I might have prevented some part of her unhappiness, had I at a certain time consulted with you concerning my welfare and fortune in person rather than by letters. You deny that there is any thing in these im- pending calamities peculiar to myself. Not to mention that this consideration gives a man no relief; I have many misfortunes, and those too heavy ones, and such as I might very easily have avoided, that are peculiar to my case, as you must be sensible". But they will diminish, if you continue, as hitherto, to take off some part of their weight by your address and ma- nagement ' This probably was the term for payhig part of his daugh- ter's fortune to Dolabella^ who was in great favour with Cae- sar. ' If any thing were yet wanting to give the reader a despi- cable idea of our author's resolution and firmness, it would be his writing, as he often does to Atticus in this manner, after all the high sentiments of patriotism he expresses^ and the prudent maxims he lays down in the last book. nagement I have money in the hands of Egna- tins. And let it even rest where it is. For things cannot long remain in their present situa- tion, before I may know what I shall principally have occasion for. Though I myself am in want of every thing, the person whom I follow bemg likewise straitened, yet I have lent him a large sum, with a view of its turning to my honour, when public matters shall be settled. Do you continue, I beg of you, to write in my name to such persons as you think proper I should write to them. My compliments to your family. Be careful of your own health. Above all thmgs, I recommend to you what you have promised me, that you take care and provide in all re- spects, so that nothing may be wanting to the person, on whose account you know I feel most anxiety. From the camp, June the 13th. EPISTLE IV, I RECEIVED a letter from Isidorus, and two of a later date, from which I understood that my farms were not sold. The favour, therefore, of furnishing my daughter with all necessaries de- volves upon you. It will be very agreeable for me, to redeem the estate at Fusinum, provided I shall be in a condition to enjoy it You desire me uh.l i *l \n ■♦u 350 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 351 me to write, but I am prevented from doing it, because I have no subject worth your notice. I absolutely disapprove of every thing that is done, and every thing tiiat happens, here. I wish at a certain time, that I had rather seen you than corresponded with you by letters. I stand up for you with our party, as well as I am able. I refer the rest to Celer. I have myself hitherto declined all employment, and the rather, because I saw none in which I could act consist- ently with my character and situation. You ask me for news. You may learn all that I know from Isidorus ; we shall probably have no great difficulty, during the rest of the ^ campaign ^ I entreat, that you will be as good as your word, in continuing to take care of that affair which, you know, I have chiefly at heart. My anxiety so preys upon me, that I am re- duced to a very low state of health ; when I am somewhat recovered, I shall join our general, who is very sanguine in his hopes. Our friend Brutus acts in this cause with very great spirit. Thus far, and no farther, does prudence war- rant 1 Pompey, who was an able but an enterprising general, had given Caesar a defeat before Dyrrachium, which might have been decisive in his favour, had he known how to improve it. But unhappily he not only gave Caesar leisure to recover him*- self, but grew so confident of success, that he afforded Caesar many advantages before the battle of Pharsalia decided the contest between them. rant me to write to you. Farewel. I have al- ready written to you in the letter you received from PoUex, entreating you most carefully to consider how I am to manage this second pay- ment. EPISTLE V. ♦ X CONFESS to you, with the deepest sorrow, that 1 have been governed more by the impulses of blind passion than by cool deliberation. But the causes, which forced me upon a conduct thus irrational, are so new, bitter and powerful as to compel me to act under their influence. I therefore, neither know what to write to you concerning my own situation, nor do I know what favour to ask of you. You are sensible of the whole of my situation. I have understood by your letters, (those which you wrote me in common wdth my other friends, and those signed by yourself alone), what indeed I must myself have been sensible of, that you were so much ex- hausted as to be obliged to provide new means to maintain my reputation. You advise me to come nearer to Rome, and to travel in the night-time through the towns that are upon the road. But, I protest, I do not see how that can be done. For the stages are neither so con- veniently I i'.i I It] € ^ 352 CICEROS EPISTLES veniently disposed as that I can reach them sO as to pass a whole day in each, nor in my pre- sent situation, is there so much difference, whe- ther I am seen by people in a town, or on the road. But I shall, amongst other things, con- sider how tliis may be most conveniently or- dered. I am in such disorder both of body and mind, that I cannot write you often, and I have only answered such of yours as have come to my hands. I beg that you will write in my name to Basilus, and to such other persons as you think proper, not forgetting Servilius as you see occa- sion. As to my being so long without writing, you are to understand, it w as not owing %o my want of inclination, but want of matter. With regard to Vatinius, whom you mention, neither he nor any body else would be wanting to do me service, if they could find out how they could serve me. My brother Quintus has been at Patrae, where he was joined by his son from Corcyra, and has expressed himself with great bitterness against me. I suppose, they have left that place with the rest of Cajsars party. TO ATTICUS. SS3 ETISTLE EPISTLE VI. I AH perfectly sensible how much you are affect- ed by your own, and the public situation, and in a more special manner, by my misfortunes and dis- tress. Your becoming my companion in sorrow, is so far from diminishing that it increases, my grief. Your wigdom has directed you to find oujt the topic that can chiefly give me comfort ; for you approve of my measures, and you are of opi* nion, that at such a juncture I could not have acted more advisedly than I have done. You even add a circumstance important in itself, but less important in my eyes than your approbation, that all who ar€ capable of reflection, approve of my conduct. Were I convinced that this is fact, it would diminish my sorrow. You bid me take it upon your word. Well, I do, though I well know how fond you are of soothing my aflliction. Never shall I repent my having quitted the field, so great was the cruelty of that party. They were so intermingled with barbarians, that the intended proscription would not have been personal, but general. Thus they concluded, all your estates must have become their plun- der, had they prevailed. I say, your estates, Vol. IL A a because, t ' -1 354 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 355 because, with regard to your person in par- ticular, their intentions were most bloody. I therefore, never shall repent of my intention, though I do of my conduct. I ought to have chosen my residence in town, till I had been in- vited to Italy. I should then have been less the subject of talk, I should have been less co- vered with confusion, I should have been less tortured with remorse. It is inconvenient in all respects, for me to sculk in Brundusium. You advise me to draw nearer to Rome, but how can I do it without the lie tors, which were given me by the people of Rome, and whom I cannot be deprived of without the hazard of my life. Some time aso, when I drew near this town, I ordered tliem to mingle in the croud without their axes, for fear of being attacked by Ceesar's soldiers. I make the proper preparations to return home when an opportunity otfers. I beg you will now apply to Oppius and Antony, that if their party will allow me to come nearer to Rome, I may consider how to proceed in this matter. I suppose they will advise me to that course; for they have criven me assurances, that Caesar will make it a point, not only to deserve, but increase my dig- nity; they advise me to keep up my courage, and they tell me there is no favour too great for me to hope for. Such are their promises, such their protestations, and I might have given more credit to them if I had remained in Italy. But there is no no looking back. I therefore beg you w ill attend to what is to come; that you will sound the per- sons I mentioned, and if you think it needful, and they proper, . whether it may not be an induce- ment for Ceesar to approve of my proceeding, if he shall understand that it has been agreeable to the advice of his own friends. You may like- wise apply toTreboniusandPansa, and the other friends of Caesar, and let them write to him, that what I have done, has been in consequence of their advice. My daughters illness, and her weakness of body distresses me. How greatly obliged am I to you for the great care I understand you have taken of her ! That Pompey is slain I have no doubt: and as his affairs were become so despe- rate that foreign princes and nations could not hope to protect him, his death is of course to be expected. I cannot help lamenting his fate ; for I knew him to be a man of virtue, temperance, and prudence. I cannot surely condole with you upon the death of Fannius, as having thrown out such base insinuation respecting your mansion in Italy. With regard to Lucius Lentulus, he had promised himself the house of Hortensius, the country seat of Cagsar, and his house at the Baiae. The other party talk pretty much in the same strain, only the resentment of our peo- ple did not know where to stop, for they reckoned all who remained in Italy to be their enemies. A a 2 But M; 1 ♦! ^ .1 1 356 CICERO'S EPISTLES But I could wish, some time or other, to converse with you upon these matters, when my mind is more at ease. I understand that my brother Quintus is gone to Asia, to surrender himself to Caesar. I have heard nothing concerning his son. But you may inquire of Diochares, Caesar's freedman, whom I have not seen, and who brought those letters from Alexandria. He is said to have seen him, but whether in the road, or in Asia, I know not. You need not doubt that, situated as I am, I feel impatient for a letter from you, which I beg you would dispatch to me the first opportunity. Dated November the 28th. ih, I EPISTLE VIL Your letter, in which you have so punctually informed me of every thing that you, thought con- cerned me, gave me great pleasure. I am then, to understand that those gentlemen are of opi- nion, that I should be attended by the same lie- tors, a favour that was granted to Sestius. But, if I mistake not, his li(itors were not continued to him, but were given him by Caesar. For I am informed that he disapproves of all the resolu- tions of the senate, that passed after the tribunes left Rome ; therefore he may, consistently with his own maxims, continue to me my lictors. But TO ATTICUS. 357 But why should I speak of lictors ? Have 1 n6t received what is next to an order that I should leav£ Italy ? For Antony has sent me a copy of Caesar's letter to him, importing that, as Cato and Lucius Metellus had come to Italy, and intended to appear in public at Rome, he disap- proved of this, and prohibited all from coming to Italy, who had not his special leave. All this was expressed in violent terms. Antony there- fore, sent me a letter, begging me to excuse him, because he could not help obeying Caesar's orders. I then sent Lucius Lamia to him, to tell him that Caesar had desired Dolatbella td write to me forthwith, to come to Italy, a»d tliat Dolabella's letter was my authority for coming. Antony, upon this, published an edict of prohi- bition, but with an express exception of Laelius and myself, which I did not like, because I might have been comprehended in a general article as having leave from Caesar, but without being named. How heavy are the strokes of my affliction ! In vain do you endeavour to weaken their force, and yet your very endeavours are so earnest, that they abate my sorrow. Repeat your salutary cor- respondence as often as possible. Continue, above all things, to support me in the hope tiiat I have not lost the esteem of worthy men ; and yet how can you succeed in this attempt. It is impracticable. But if any occasion should put it li t ■ 358 CICERO'S EPISTLES it in your power, (as I know none at present) to justify me with such men. that would give me comfort indeed. But this justification must arise from the events which have happened. It has been said, for instance, that I ought to have left Italy at the same time with Pompey. Now his death takes off, in some measure, the reproach of my havincr been wanting to my duty in that respect. But, of all the charges against me, none aftects me more than my not going to Africa. Now I reasoned in this manner. I did not think the cause of our country ought to be left to the defence of barbarous auxiliaries, and the most treacherous of all people in the world, especially as they were to act against an army which had gained repeated victories. This apology will, perhaps, not satisfy the people ; for I hear that a great many worthy Romans have gone to Africa, and I know that some were there before. Here I feel most vulnerable, and here too, I must apr peal to events. It may be said that some, pos- sibly all, of those patriots would have made their peace with Caesar if they could. But if they should hold out and prevail, in what a light shall I then appear ? But, say you, what will become of them should they be conquered ? Why, they fall with giory. Tliat, indeed, is the reflection which gives me torment You have not informed me of the reasons you have for thinking that the conduct of Sulpicius has TO ATTICUS. 359 has not been more advisable than mine. It is not indeed, so specious as that of Cato, but it is void of difficulty and danger. The last conside- ration is, with regard to those who are in Achaia, yet even they are in a better situation than I am, because a great many of them are in one place, and, at the same time they come to Italy, they come to Rome directly. Do you continue to use all the arguments in your power to apologize for my misfortunes, and to vindicate my conduct. You say, you cannot give me a meeting. Well— I know your reasons, and I am even sensible that it is my interest you should be at Rome, that you may treat with the proper persons, as you have hitherto done upon .those matters which relate to me ; and there is one thing I recommend to you in a more special manner, I am of opinion there are a great many who have informed, or will in- form, Csesar, that I either repent of my conduct, or that I disapprove of his. Both those facts are true, but they are reported by the informers, not from any real disco-veries they have made, but with an intention to injure me. But Balbus and Oppius must entirely take upon them the charge of removing these impressions from Caesar, and confirm, by their frequently writing to him, the disposition he has in my favour ; and do you use all your endeavours to answer the same end. There is another reason why I would not have you to leave Rome, because you write me that you i ii 360 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 361* you are solicited to remain there. What a mise* rable situation I am in! What can I write? What can I wish for? — I must be short — For' Hiy tears involuntary flow. I leave every thing to you. Do every thing for the best Only take care to do yourself no injury in a period so 'trying as this. Pardon, me, I beseech you, tears and anguish will not suffer me to continue longer upon this subject All I can say is, that there is BOtbing in which you can more oblige me than in loving my daughter. You act very kindly in writing letters to such people as you think poper; I have seen a person who saw the younge Quintus at Samos, and his father at Sycion. It will be an easy matter for them to make their peace. I wish, as they are to see Caesar before I can see him, that they would do me as much service with him as I am inclinable to do them, were it in my power. You entreat me to take in good part, any thing that may relate to me in your letters. I tell you, I take it in the best part, and I desire you will continue to write me every thing as openly, and as often as you can. FareweL December the igth. EPISTLE Vni. I SUPPOSE you are not ignorant of my afflic- tions, but you will be fully instructed in them by^ Lepta and Trebatius. Dearly do I suffer for my* rash conduct, which you are fond of calling pru- dent,— But 1 shall not dispute the point with you ; and I am not against your entertaining these sen* timents, provided you write to me as often as you can, for, at this time, your letters give me some consolation. I have occasion for all your interest with those who are my well-wishers, and have most influence with Caesar, and especially with Balbus and Oppius. Let them write to him in the strongest terms in my favour ; for I hear that I have enemies about Caesar s person, and there are others who would be glad to injure me by letters to him. These must be counter- acted in such a manner as the magnitude of the ease requires. Furnius is with Caesar, and is one of my bitterest enemies. My brother has sent his son to Caesar, not only to beg his par- don, but to make him my enemy. He gives out that I have done him ill offices with Caesar. In this he is confuted by Caesar himself, and by all his friends ; and wherever he is, he incessantly loads me with every kind of reproach. Of all the things I ever met with in my life, I could not have 362 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 363 believed this, and of all my calamities, this is the most bitter. I have been told by those who heard them^ of some very heinous charges, which he alleged against me in a public company at Sycion. You know his temper, perhaps you have experienced it, and now he discharges all 4ts bitterness on me. But the remembrance of these matters both increases my own trouble, and occasions uneasiness to you. Let me, there- fore, return to the main point ; and recommend it to you upon this occasion, that Balbus should send a special messenger to Caesar. I beg you will write to people in my name as you see pro- per. Adieu. December 27th. EPISTLE IX. W HAT you say is true, I have acted both in- cautiously and prematurely ; I am now quite hopeless, being detained in Italy, by the excep- tions inserted in Caesar's edicts, and had they not been obtained by your assiduity and friendship, I should have chosen to have gone to some de- sert or other. But now I am not at liberty to do even this. Of what avail is it to me, that I have come before the commencement of th6 new tri- buneship, if my coming at all is of no effect in itself? Now, what can I hope from a man who never never was my friend, harassed and oppressed as I am, by an established law. The letters I re- received from Balbus, are every day more and more cold. Ceesar receives letters from various parts, the object of which, is perhaps, to preju- dice him against me. I have myself to blame for my ruin, and I can lay nothing to the score of ' chance. AH my misery is owing to myself. After seeing the nature of the war, after being sensible that we were weak, and unprovided in all respects, to act against an enemy who wanted for nothing ! What was I to do? I resolved to remain neutral. A resolution not brave indeed, but more pardonable in me than in any other jnan alive. Well, I yielded to, or rather obeyed my friends. One of them (the person whom you re- commend to me) has discovered by his letters to you, what his sentiments were. Never should I have opened them, had it not been upon the following occasion : The packet was brought to me ; I opened to see if any letters directed for me were in it. There was none but one from Vatinius, and another from Ligurius, which I ordered to be sent to them. Immediately they came to me burning with grief, and exclaiming against my brother^s treachery. They then read to me his letters, which were filled with all man- ner of invectives against me. Ligurius told me jp great passion, that Caesar had been excessively exasperated 364 CICERO'S EPISTLES exasperated against my brother, and that it was only from his respect to me, that he not only re- ceived him into favour, but made him a conside- rable present in money. After this painful dis- covery, I was curious to know what he had written to his other correspondents, for I thought that it would turn to his own prejudice, should the report of his monstrous baseness diffuse itself farther. I perceived all his letters were in the same strain. I have sent them to you. You may order them to be delivered, if you think they can serve him, for they cannot be of disservice to me. They may again be sealed by his own, which, if I misake not, is in the possession of Pomponia. When on first sailing, he manifested his unna- tural temper against me, it confounded me so much, that I have been stunned ever since ; and at present, I am told that he does not endeavour so much to serve himself, as to injure me. With such numberless hardships am I sur- rounded, that it is difficult, nay, impossible, for me to hold out longer against them. There is one misfortune, were there no other, that must depress me to the ground ; the thoughts of leav- ing my unfortunate daughter, stript of all she bad to expect of my fortune or her own. I am impatient, therefore, till you fulfil your promise of seeing me. For I have no other friend on earth to whom I can recommend her, because I understand that her mother is to expect no more favour TO ATTICUS. 365 favour than myself. But, should I not see you, let this my recommendation of her serve for all, and do all you can to reconcile her and the uncle I write this upon my birth-day. I wish I never had been born, or that my mother had no other son. My tears will not suffer me to write more. EPISTLE X, IVly troubles \4iich are already inexpressible, were augmented by the news I had of my brother and nephew. Terentius, an intimate friend, was extensively concerned as an under farmer in the toll upon carriages and pasturage in Asia. He saw the younger Quintus at Ephe- sus on the 8th of December, and from the regard he has to me,, he gave him a pressing invitation to supper ; and, upon his putting some particular questions to him concerning me, my nephew de- declared himself my most inveterate enemy; showing him at the same time, a written ora- tion which he was to speak against me before Caesar, Terentius took great pains to dis- suade him from his frantic proceeding. He afterwards, at Patree, had a long conversation with my brother who talked in the same unnatu- ral, wicked strain, and whose madness you may perceive from the letter I have sent you. I know this f 366 CICERO^S EPISTLES this will give you pain, as it gives me torment, and the more, because I am of opinion, that there will hereafter be no room, even for my ex- postulating with them. Our news concerning the affairs of Africa, are very different from that you represent them to be in your letters. We are told, that nothing can be more strong or active than the friends of free- dom in that quarter. Add to this, the revolt of Spain, the dislike of Italy to Caesar, the weak- ness, and the disaffection of his troops, and the desperate state of his affairs. I Have no means to enjoy myself a moment, longer than while I am reading your letters. I know you would write me more frequently, if you had any sub- ject to write, which you think would alleviate my anguish; but I beg of you not to forbear writ- ing, whatever you may have to w rite ; and if you cannot hate those who have treated me so cruel- ly, yet you may reproach them ; not that your reproaches will have any weight with them, but that they may be sensible, that I am still dear to you. I shall write you more, when you have answered my last letters. Farewel, Dated Ja- nuary the 21st. EPISTLE TO ATTICUS. 367 EPISTLE XI. O PENT as I am with a thousand tormenting re- flections, if 1 had any thing proper to write to you, it would not be easy for me to do it. At present, I have nothing to say, especially as I have no prospect of my situation being bettered. I am therefore, in no expectation of having a let- ter even from you, though they always bring me something that is agreeable. Therefore, conti- nue to write to me by every opportunity. I can say nothing in answer to your last letter, w hich, by the bye, I received a long time ago. The face of affairs is much changed since that time; The cause of justice and freedom is gaining ground ; and I am ruined by my folly. You are to pay thirty thousand serteces to Publius Sallustius, which I received from Cnaeus Sallustius, and I beg you to do this without de- lay. On this subject I have written to Terentia, and indeed, this supply is almost exhausted. Therefore, I wish you would concert measures with her how to procure further resources. I could borrow money perhaps here, if I thought it could be paid at Rome upon demand, but I will not venture to borrow any, before I know that I can draw for it. You see how it is with me. 368 CICERO'S EPISTLES me. There is no species of wretchedness, that I do not either bear, or expect, and my anguish is embittered by the reflection, that it is owing to my own misconduct. My brother is inces- santly defaming me in Achaia. It is «trang^ that your letters have had no impression upon him* Dated March the 8th. EPISTLE XII. Os the evening of the 8th of March, I receiv- ed your letter of Cephalio, after having that very day in the morning sent off an express with letters to you. When I had read your letter, however, I thought proper to write something in answer, especially as I perceived you to be ra- ther doubtful, with regard to the reason, which I am to assign to Ctesar for my leaving Italy. I have no occasion for any new reason. For I have often written to himself and I have given it out to many others, that I did all I could to bear with the public talk; but all was in vain, with a great deal to the same purpose. There is no- thinty which can go more against my inclination than that he should imagine, I have consulted any body but myself, in a matter of this vast conse- quence. Afterwards I had a letter from the young Balbus Cornelius, telling me, that Caesar thought TO ATTICUS. 369 thought that my brother Quintus had sounded the alarm (for these were his words) for my de- parture. At that time I did not know in what terms my brother Quintus had written of me to others, though he sjpoke, and did a great many bitter things to my face, yet I wrote by Nilus to Caesar, in these words : "I am as anxious concerning my brother Quintus, as I am concerning myself, but I dare not presume, at such a juncture as this is, to recommend him to you. I will venture hereby however, to beg of you, that you will believe, he never did a thing to discourage my giving you proofs of my regard and affection ; but that he rather was always prompting me to a closer con- nection with you, and that he was not the ad- viser, but the companion, of my flight. There- fore, in all other respects, 1 hope you will be- stow upon him, those favours that are consistent with your humanity for him, and his friendship with you. Let me beg you, with the greatest earnestness, again and again, that I may not injure him in any respect in your opinion." Should I, therefore, have an interview with Cfiesar, though I make no doubt of his forgiving my brother, for he has declared so much, yet still I will be consistent with myself, by repeat- ing the same language which I used before. But in my mind, our chief concern at present ought to be with regard to Africa, where, you Vol. IL Bb say, 370 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 371 say, things daily wear a more favourable aspect, sof as to induce us to hope, not indeed that we shall be triumphant, but that we shall be able to sub- mit on more honourable terms. Would to hea- ven it were so ! but accounts stated to me are very different ; and I make no doubt, that your own opinion is likewise unfavourable, but that you conceal it from me, not to deceive, but to encourage me, especially as Spain is at so small a distance from Africa. You advise me to write to Antony, and others of that party. If you think there is occasion for that, I beg you would continue to do what you have often done ; I mean, to write to them in my name, for nothing that is proper for me to write to them occurs to me at present. You hear that I am more depressed than ever. No wonder that I am, when you see the glorious actions of my son-in-law^ crowning all my other distress:es. However, I beg you will continue to write me as often as you can, (for he cannot binder you in this) even though you have no subject for writing, for your letters always bring me 1 Meaning DobbeHa, who at that time acted at Rome as tribune of the people, and was pushing on a gent-raJ act of in- solvency, and other very pernicious measures, in which he was opposed by Trebellius one of his colleagues. This ditference between the two tribunes, occasioned a great deal of bloodshed, which was increased by the Senate's agreeing to Antony's ea- tering Rome at the head of his troops. me some comfort. I have taken possession of Galliots legacy, and, I believe, I am sole legatee, because notice has not been given me of the ap- pointment of any other \ Dated March the 5th. EPISTLE XIII. I HAVE as yet, received no letter from Murena s freedman ; that which I now answer, was deli- vered to me by Publius Siser. What you write me concerning the letters of the elder Servius, has no more truth than your information, that my brother is come to Syria, which is proved to be false. You desire me to inform you, how I stand with those who have come hither. I have reason to think, I stand well with every one of them ; but I know you are a judge how far that is of any consequence to me. Every thing helps to complete my misery, especially as I see my- self reduced to that state, in which nothing can serve me, but the success of the cause, which has ever 1 Puto enim cretionemsimplicemfuisse, quoniam ad me nulla missa est. It was usually required by the testament that the heir should enter upon the estate, left to him, within the space of sixty or a hundred days. This act was called hwreditatis ere- tio, Varro L. L. vi. 5. This cretio, or legal possession, was said to be simplex, where, though the property was divided between many heirs, one alone was appointed the legal succes- •or. — ^E. BbS 372 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 373 ever been my aversion ^ They say, that the el- der Publius Lentulus is at Rhodes, and his son at Alexandria ; and it is certain, that Caius Cas- sias is gone from Rhodes to Alexandria. In an apology which my brother has sent me for his conduct, he has made use of more bitter terms than he did when lie persecuted me the most. For, he mentions, that he understands by your letters, that you are offended at his saying so many severe things of me in writing ; that he was sorry he had disobliged you, but that he had done nothing in which he was not justified. He then writes me his reasons, in very scurrilous terms. But he would not at this time, nor at any other, have betrayed his malice against me, had he seen me overwhelmed by oppression. I wish I had come nearer to you, even though I had tra- velled in the night, as you advised me ; for now, where you are, or when I can see you, is to me absolutely unknown. You ^ Meaning that of Caesar. The despondency, and the mean- ness of our author in the whole of his conduct at this juncture, is far less defensible, and much more ridiculous than he showed under hi-? banishment. We find him starting at every breath, raising to himself phantoms of misery, and ingeniously tor- menting himself with the mere chimeras. Notwithstand- ing this, I am apt to believe, that he was not mistaken, in sup- posing that it would be much better for him that Caesar should get the better, than that the republicans should. But the de- claration in this place is very unworthy of a wise and a good Dun. You had no occasion to write to me, concern- ing the coheirs of Fufidius. Their demands are no more than just, and 1 approve of whatever you have done in that matter. I informed you long ago of my willingness to pay off the mort- gage of the estate of Frusinum. I am still in the same mind, though my circumstances were then better, nor did I then think the public af- fairs so desperate as they appear to be now. I leave you to take the proper steps for finishing that business. I beg that you will exert yourself as much as possible to procure means for my necessary expences. All the money I could spare, I gave to Pompey, at a time when I thought I was acting wisely in so doing. I have therefore been obliged to borrow somewhat from your steward, and from other hands, and, at the same time, Quintus has been complaining by letters, that I could spare nothing to him. He never asked me for any, nor have I ever seen the money I mentioned. I beg you will try what can be done for me, and that you would give me your best advice upon all matters ; you know the state of my affairs. My grief prevents my writing any more at present. You will continue to write in my name, to such persons as occasion requires, and I beg you will lose no opportunity of writing to me. Farewel. V EPISTLE 374i CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XIV. 1 AM not at all offended by your candid decla- ration, that you will not even attempt, as you formerly did, to comfort me under my afflictions both public and private, and your confessing it to be now impracticable. The situation of things is entirely altered from what they were. For, to mention no other circumstance, I thought others were in the same predicament with myself. For all those who seek to avoid the resentment of Caesar both in Achaia and in Asia, all those who know, or do not know, the state of public affairs, are about to set sail for Africa. Laelius there-: fore, is the only person who is in the same si- tuation with myself, through his own misconduct ; but in one respect, he has the advantage of me, because he is received into favour. With regard to myself, I make no doubt, that Caesar has written concerning me to Balbus, and to Oppius, who certainly, if they had received any agree- able orders, would have communicated them to me. They likewise would have imparted them to you ; and I desire, that you will talk to them upon the subject, and let me have their answer ; not that I think his assurances in my favour are to be relied on, but I may be able from thence, to form some judgment of the manner in which I ought TO ATTICUS. 375 I oucTht to proceed. Though I dread the public xiesv especially as I have such a son-m-law, yet I can find nothing else more eligible for me m this unfortunate situation. Pansa and Hirtius wrke to me, that my brother goes on against me in his old way, and it i^ said, that he is proceed- incT to Africa with the others of that party. 1 will write to the elder Minutius, and I will send him your letter. I will acquaint you how he pro- ceeds if he should draw upon me for money, lam surpnsed how you could raise the thirty tliousand serteces, unless the estate of luh- dius has turned out better than we expected . That must be the case. But I expect you m per- son, for my affairs require that I should see you, if possible. Now matters are come to a crisis with me, it is easy for you to form a judgment of what is the least distressing course for me to pursue. Farewel. EPISTLE 1 The sense of the original is here extremely doubtful, not only on account of Cicero's close cursory way, of writing, but of the various readings in the original. I have endeavoured however, to make it clear and consistent both with the best readings and with other passages of our author. 376 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 377 EPISTLE XV. xxs you have so many good reasons why I can- not see you at this time, how, I pray you, am I to proceed ? For Caesar's possession of Alexan- dria is such, that he is ashamed to write of what has happened there \ The opposite partizans seem to be preparing for passing from Africa into Italy, and those who went from Achaia to Asia, will either join them, or remain in some neutral place. HoMT then do you think I am to proceed ? I know it is difficult to advise me. My case is singular, and has at most but one parallel, for I can neither return to the party I have quitted, nor have I any assurances of protection from the party I have embraced. But still I want to know your opinion, and that was one among many reasons, why I desired, if possible, to see you. I wrote to you before, that Minutius had paid me no more than twelve thousand serteces ; I beg you will take care that I shall be paid the re- mainder. My brother is so far from expressing any concern to me for his past behaviour, that be writes to me in the most reproachful terms. As ^ Notwithstanding all the great qualities of Caesar, his heprt was so accessible to the charms of the famous Cleopatra, that his gallantries with her at Alexandria, had almost proved fatal both to his affairs and his person. As to his son, he is quite outrageous against me. My embarrassments are inconceivable ; but no- thing stings me so much as the reflection upon my own gross irretrievable misconduct; which ivould be somewhat alleviated had I not been mistaken in believing that some others would have acted as I did. But all others had reason for their conduct; I have none. Some were made prisoners, others were intercepted before any suspicion could be formed of their intention, and the rather, because as soon as they were liberated, they joined their own party. As to such of them as voluntarily served under Fusius*, the worst that can be said of them is, that they were irresolute. Now there are numbers of every description, who will be received by the patriots, provided they are willing to join them. You have, therefore, the less reason to be surpri- sed at my sinking under such a weight of affliction. The guilt of irretrievable misconduct is peculiar to myself, unless, indeed, Laelius may be joined with me. But what does it avail me, to have one com- panion in misery ? It is said, indeed, that Caius Cassius has altered his design of going to Alex- andria. I write to you in this manner^ not that you are able to remove my imeasiness, but that J may know, whether you can give me any advice in t He commanded in Achaia under Caesar, and was consul for the three last months of this year with Vatinius. 378 CICERO'S EPISTLES in my present miserable condition, which is ag- gravated by the conduct of my son-in-law, and other circumstances which my tears hinder me from writing? Even the son of ^opus^ gives me pain. In short, nothing is wanting to make my misery complete. But, as I was just now asking — what is your opinion I should do ? Shall I steal to some place nearer Rome, or shall I pass the sea ? For here I canot stay longer. Why could you do nothing in the aftair of the Fufidian estate^ For the contract was of such a nature, as seldom or ever, to, admit of any controversy, because the share which seemed to be the least, might have been made up by selling the whole estate by auction ^ This, with good reason, I shall make the subject of inquiry ; for I suspect that the coheirs believe my situation to be very hazardous, and therefore, refuse to act in the business. Adieu. Dated May the 14th. EPISTLE 1 He was a celebrated player, and our author, who was fond of excellence in all professions, had a particular esteem for him. He left an immense estate to his son, who is mentioned here, and who squandered it scandalously in a very short time. But after ail, I cannot be easily persuaded, that the original here is not vitiated. Gronovius is of opinion, that it ought to be read instead of Quin etiam jEsopi Jilius, Quia etiam tucB sororis filius. 2 Orig. Cum ea pars, qucevidetur esse minor, Ucitatione expleri posset. TO ATTICUS. 379 EPISTLE XVI. I AM not to blame, at least at this time, (for I own I have been so formerly) that Caesar's letter gives me no comfort. For I perceive you ob- serve, as well as I do, that it is illiberally witten, and affords strong presumption that it did not come from his hand \ 1 will take your advice with regard to my going out to meet him. For his return to Italy is neither certain, nor do they who come from Asia, say, that they have heard any thing of peace, and yet the hopes of that gave rise to all my mistaken measures. I now see no foundation for such a hope, especially as Csesar has been severely checked in Asia', iny lUyricum, 1 We see from this passage, and from the practice of our author, that it was usual for the great men of Rome to give a general licence to their friends, to make use of their name in writing to others, what they thought might be for their service. The word exigue, in this sentence, would seem to imply, that the composition was too mean for Caesar, but the sense I have given it, is more natural and agrees much better with our author's doubts. Besides, exigue does not so much signify mean, as contracted. Our author mentions, exiguum tevipusi Virgil, exigua nox-^Laudato ingenlia Rura, exiguum colito. 2 Cssar^s lieutenant, Domitius Calvinus had been worsted there by Pharnaces, the son of Mithridades. 380 CICERO'S EPISTLES lUyricumS in the affair of Cassius^ in Alex- andria itself, in Rome', and in Italy*. With regard to myself, supposing Caesar to be upon his return at the time he is said to be carrying on the war, yet I believe a decisive blow will be struck before that time ^ You wTite me that the patriots manifested some joy when they heard of Caesar s letter. You take care to omit nothing that you think can give me the smallest degree of comfort. But I cannot persuade myself, that any patriot can sup- pose I value any advantage which might happen to me, at such a rate, as to beg it of Caesar, and the 1 Where Gabinius, one of Caesar's general officers, was de- feated by Octavius Dolabella, in his march to join Caesar. 2 He commanded under Caesar, in Spain, where he beha- ved so ill, that his soldiers conspired against him, by which means the republicans became again masters of jthat country. ^ On account of the popular commotions there. * Where Caesar's soldiers were very much disaffected, espe- cially on account of his behaviour with Cleopatra, which seems to have been no secret at that time. ^ Meaning that Scipio, who commanded the republican arm}' in Africa, would find means to transport it over to Italy, which would then fall into their hands. But this was one of our author's vain surmises, arising from the dreadful concern he was under, lest the party, which he had so often solemnly vowed to espouse, at the expence of his life and fortune, as esteeming it more honourable to die with them, than to con- quer with Caesar, (see the preceding Epistles) should he be successful. TO ATTICUS. 331 the less, because I am now singular in the con- duct I have pursued. They who are in Asia wait to know what turn affairs will take. Those in Achaia have even given Fufius hopes that they will submit. All those gentlemen, at first, enter- tained the same apprehension, and had come to the same resolution with myself The check which Caesar met with at Alexandria, improved their condition, but ruins mine ; I therefore repeat to you the request I made in my former letters, to let me know, whether, in this desperate state of my affairs, you see any thing that you think pro- per for me to do ? If I am received by Caesar's party, which you perceive is not the case, yet still, during the war, 1 am at a loss how to act, or where to reside. Should I be rejected, my con- dition is still >vorse. I therefore, wait for a letter from you, and I beg you will write to me positively upon this head. You advise me to send Caesar's letter to my brother, which I would do, did it give me any pleasure. Meanwhile, a certain correspondent writes to me in the following terms. " I pas.^ my time at Patrae agreeably enough, considering the public distractions ; but my abode would be the more agreeable, if your brother would talk of you in a manner that I like." You tell me he has written to you, that I answered none of his letters. I received only one from him, and I answered it by Cephalio, who has been de- tained '3SQ CICERO'S EPISTLES tained by contrary winds, for some months. I formerly acquainted you, that the younger Quin- tus had written to me in the most scurrilous manner. I shall conclude by begging you, if you ap- prove of the measure, and think you can un- dertake it, to concur with Camillus in talking to my wife concerning her will \ The times call upon her to discharge her debts, and to settle her affairs. Philotimus has been heard to say, that, in some things, she has acted most infa- mously. 1 can scarcely credit this charge ; but if there be any truth in it, we must do all we can to prevent the consequences. I beg you will write to me concerning every thing, and about her in a more particular manner. I want to advise with you in this matter, though perhaps you can form no judgment of it, and I shall take it for granted, by your silence, that you cannot Dated June the 11th. EPISTLE ^ Though Terentia was, at this time, in perfect health, and enjoyed it for upwards of fifty years after this j yet Cicero and she, had each of them agreed to make a will, settling the suc- cession amongst their children and grandchildren, to then* seve- ral estates. "■^^^ TO ATTICUS. 383 EPISTLE XVII. X HE bearers of this letter, being not my ser- vants, and in haste, I now send you a short letter, especially as I intend soon to dispatch to you a courier from myself My dear Tullia came to me the ISJth of June, and was at great pains to inform me of the high regard and kind- ness which you had shewn her, delivering to me, at the same time, three letters. As to myself, so far was I from enjoying the pleasure, which the virtue, the tenderness, and the affection of so excellent a daughter ought to have given me, that I felt inconceivable anguish at seeing so ami- able a woman immersed in sucli misery; and that too, from no demerit in her, but from the most blamable conduct in me. I cannot there- fore, at present, expect from you the consolation which you are so fond to adminster ; nor advice, for I can follow none. You have, I am sensible, omitted nothing that could be suggested, in your former letters. I am thinking of sending my son with Sallust to Caesar. As to my daughter, I think it improper that I should detain her any longer about my per- son, in our present public melancholy circumstan- ces. I will, therefore, prevail upon her as soon as convenient, to return to her mother. For to the letter 384 CICEROS EPISTLES letter, which with so much tenderness you sent to sooth me, in my present melancholy situation, I feel all the gratitude which would have ani- mated your bosom, had you been in my circum- stances. The conversation which you inform me you had with Oppius \ was, on his part, pretty much as I had suspected. But I am certain that it will be impossible to convince the friends of Caesar, by any means; that I cordially approve of their measures. I will, however, be as mode- rate as possible. And yet I cannot see what mighty disadvantage would arise from incurring their displeasure. I see you have a very good excuse (too good to my great sorrow) for not coming to see me. We have as yet no advice of Caesar's having left Alexandria, and it is certain, that no body has come from thence since the l6th of March, nor has Caesar written to any one since the 13th of December. You may, therefore, conclude that the letter bearing date the 9th of February, is not authentic (though it would be of no con- sequence if it were). We are certainly informed that Lucius Terentius has left Africa, and is come to Paestum^ I am curious to know what news 1 He probably had desired Atticus to put our author upon his guard against talking so freely as he did of public affeirs, or rather to talk of them in Caesar's favour. « This was a town of Lucania, built at the mouth of the river Siiaris. TO ATTICUS. 983 he brings, how he escaped, and how matters stand in Africa, for we are told, that he was conveyed away by Nasidius\ Pray give me all the inform mation you cto come at on that subject I will follow your advice as to the ten thousand ser-* teces. Adieu. June the 14th. EPISTLE XVIII. \V E have yet no account of Caesar's having left Alexandria, and the general opinion is, that his encra^^ements there will not allow him to return. For this reason I have laid aside the thoughts of sending my son to him, and I htg that you will liberate me from this place, for I know no punish- ment so great as my staying here any longer. I have applied by letters to Antotiy, to Balbus, and to Oppius, upon this subject. For it will be ex- tremely improper that I should be here, whether we suppose the war to be carried on in Italy, or by sea. It will be Carried on, perhaps, both ways ; that it will one way, is certain. The conversa- tion which you wrote me, you had with Oppias, made me entirely sensible of the vrew^ of thdt party, * Scipio, who commanded the republican party in Africa, had been at great pains to cut off all communication between Caasar and that countryj biU this Nasidius, who oomimnded a fleet upon that coast, it seems, assieted Tetentiui' ia his' escape from thence. Vol. II. G c 386 CICERO'S EPISTLES party, with regard to myself, but I beg you would try to soften them. At present I calculate upon the worst, and nothing but the worst, though in- deed my present situation is as bad as it can be. I therefore, desire you will speak with Antony, and others, and do all you can to effect my de- liverance, giving me the earliest possible advice upon every subject. Farewel. Dated June the 19th. EPISTLE XIX ^ 1 READILY agree with you in what you write, when you are at such pains in making me sensi- ble, that you know of no way to assist me. It is true, my affliction is such, as to admit of no con- solation. Had the causes of it been accidental, it had been tolerable. But all my misconduct arose from a complication of mistakes and mise- ries, both of mind and body, which I wish my relations had endeavoured, rather to remove than to increase. I have not therefore the least glimpse of hope that you can, in any degree, give me either advice or comfort ^ Hereafter I will ask you for neither. All I beg of you is not to discontinue your correspondence ; write me what- ever 1 I have followed Monsieur Mongault in aUering the order^ in which the seren last letters of this book, stand in the com- mon editions. ' This is another mark of oar author*s great dejection. TO ATTICUS. 387 ever occurs to you, when you can find a Bearer, and as long as you can have (which you cannot long have) me for a correspondent. \Ve have here a report in circulation, founded on a letter of Sulpicius, and confirmed by all later accounts, that Caesar has left Alexandria. I know not whether to wish this account to be true or false, so little can it affect me either way. I wish that my wife's Will, concerning which I formerly wrote to you, should be deposited id some safe hands ^ I am rendered completely miserable by the wretched situation of my daugh- ter, who is with me. Never surely was distress equal to mine. I am impatient to know, whether you can point out to me in what manner I may in some degree alleviate it. I am sensible the same difficulty subsists in giving^ me advice as formerly, but this, indeed is my chief affliction. in regard to the second payment, we were blind to our own interest ; and I beg of you to procure by all possible means some money, by selling my plate, and some part of my household furniture ; for 1 think matters now draw towards a crisis. We can no longer hope for accommodation ; and should peace be obtained, it must fall to the ground 1 The text is entirely corrupted in this place. All I have been able to do is to restore it from the most probable conjec- tures, without troubling myself about the surmise of the com- mentators, which, when the text is corrupted, are often extra- vagant and always uncertain. Cc 2 388 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 389 ground of itself, even without opposition \ If you think proper you will talk likewise upon this subject with my wife, when you have an opportunity. I cannot write more at large. Dated the 5th of July. EPISTLE XX. Jl ApvisED you> by letter, fo cWsult with Ca- millus» and be writes me, that he has had a con- viersation with you, respecting which I expect from you a letter. But if that affair has taken an unexpected turn, I see not how it can be al- tered ^ But I knew not what to make of receiv- ing no advice from you along with the letters which Nilus sent me, and I concluded that you was either indisposed (for you wrote me that you felt some symptoms of your late indisposition), .or » Meaning at he hinted in a formec letter, that Caesar's suc- cwa would be of no long continuance, even though he got the better of his |resent diihculties, and returned in triumph to Rome. • Orig. Nisi ifiud qnidevi mutari, si aliter est, etoportet, non mdeo foste. The word nisi carries often with it the same im- port as sed amongst ancient Latin authors. Cicero himself sometimes uses it in that sense, Fann. Epist. lib. xiii. ep. 1. Nee, cur ilte tantatoperc contendat video, nee, atr iu repugnes r Nisi tamen multo minus tilt coneedi potest quam illi Uberare sine causa, Eod. hb. ep. 13. De te nihil possum judiearc ; nisi illud mihi ctrte persuades, te taiem virum nihil temere fedsse. or that you had yet come to no fiKed determina- tion as to the affair in question. One Acusius came here on the 18th of July, from Rhode8» who tells me, that my brother' Quintus upon the 29th of May, set out for Caesar ; that Philoti- mus came to Rhodes the day before, and that he had a letter for me. You will hear what Acusius himself has to say, but he travels very slowly. I have, therefore, sent off this dispatch by a more expeditious bearer. I know not the contents of the letter I am to receive from Philotimus, but I am greatly complimented by my brother Quin- tus, though indeed my misconduct has been so great, that I cannot conceive how it is possible I shall ever be able to bear with its consequences. I beg you would bestow some thoughts upon the condition of my wretched daughter ; and I repeat my former request to you, that something may be done to keep her from want, and like- wise to speak to my wife concerning her Will. I was of opinion that the matter you hint at should have been done before, but I was afraid of every thing. A divorce was the best course that could been followed in their most uncomfortable situa- tion. I wish we could have shewn that we were not insensible of his profligacy, of his attempt to pass an act for cancelling the public debts, of his nocturnal riots, or of his intrigues with Metella, or of all his other provocations. This would have 1 Orig. Quintum F. which some read Filium, others Fia- trem. \ I 390 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 391 h have prevented him from squanderincr mydaugh«f ter's fortune, and shewn in me some marks of manly resentment Well do I remember your letter \ But ^ When the reader reflects on the nature of our author's famihar correspondence with Atticus, he cannot at all be sur- prised at the conciseness of his expression, and the dark hints he throws out which Atticus understood, though they are often unintelligible to us. The truth is, the correspondence between them is often little better than a cipher, which renders the dif- ficulty of translating these letters inexpressible. Add to this, that the different situations of our author seem to have had a surprising effect upon his stile. He sometimes talks clear and distinct, and sometimes, as in the letter before us, like a man whose lungs are wasted by a consumptive habit, gasping for breath, seeking to be understood by his eyes and motions, ra- ther than by his expressions. This is the natural effect of that concern and agitation of spirit, which Cicero was generally un- der, during the whole course of his correspondence with Atti- cus, the loss of whose letters leaves us greatly in the dark, as to our author's meaning, in many passages. All that a translator, under such difficulties can do, is to compare one passage with another, to attend to his author's manner, to prefer certainty to probability, and probability to arbitrar)^ conjecture. I have always, when the sense did not suffer by it, imitated that fruga- lity of words, for which our author is as remarkable in his epis- tles, as he is in other writings, for the perspicuity and some- times luxuriancy of his stile. But, possessed as I am with the greatest veneration for Cicero, I cannot think it the business of a translator, to imitate him in what was the effect rather of his misfortunes than his judgment. Neither is he at the game liberty as Cicero was, to suppose himself to be understood by his reader. Atticus knew the meaning of what is a mystery to an English man eighteen hundred years after, and therefore when a translator can decipher his meaning, he is not to write in ^he same stile that Cicero wrote to Atticus. Ov\ this account I hav^ But you know the trials of that period ; yet he could not behave worse than he did. At pre- sent he seems to defy us. Good heavens, what do I hear of the republic ? Is it possible that MY son-in-law should be the man who sliould make his country bankrupt. I am of your opin- ion that a notice should be given him of my daughter's intention to be separated from him. He perhaps will demand the third payment. You will therefore take it into consideration, whether the proposal should not come from me, rather than it should come first from him. If I can by any means, I will try, even though I should travel by night, to see you ; I beg that you will write to me on these matters, and upon every thing else that may concern me. Adieu. • -I* EPISTLE XXI. I NEVER have omitted an opportunity of writing to you, even though I had nothing material to write. Your letters to me come more seldom, and are shorter, than usual, because, I sup- pose, you have nothing which you think I can read or hear with pleasure. Write to me never- theless whatever may happen, in any respect. I greatly •■ I have made it a rule, that my translation should give the reader all the lights possible through the dark parts of the original, which saves an infinite number of notes, equally tiresome to the translator and the reader. II 392 CICEBO'S EPISTLES I greatly wish, though I have no retson to hope, for peace ; yet the slight hints, you sometimes throw out on th^t subject, force me to hope for whfit I can scarcely wish. It is md Philotimus will arrive here on the 1 3th of August. I beg from you an answer to what I formerly wrote you. I hftve no more time than is sufficient for me to look about me, (I who never, in my life, looked about me) in this moat wretched situation. Farewel. Dated July 22i EPISTLE XXir. X AM sensible of the trutli of what you former^ ly wrote to myself, and of what you twice wrote to Tullia concerning me. I am more unhappy than ever (though my misery seemed before to be complete) as having received a grievous in- sult, I am not permitted to show my resentment ftn(J sorrow, without danger to myself. How can I bear with this? But bear it I must, ^nd n&oreover puffer these very inconveniences against which you put me upon my guard. For so peculiar has been my misconduct, that what- ever be the condition of other people, I must continue to be unfortunate. But I now write with my own hand, for what I have to say demands secresy. I bei^ that you •vill \ \\ 11 TO ATTICUS. 393 'will look after the Will' which my wife made when she first began to be uneasy. I believe she will not teaze you by any impertinent inquiries^,. at least she does not me. But be that as it will, since you are now upon speaking terms with her, you may advise her to put it into the hands of somebody who is attached to neither party, and who is not likely to suffer by this contest, in whatever way it may terminate. You are the person I have chiefly in view for that trust, if my daughter here shall agree to it; but, poor wonmn, I conceal from her the reasons of this cautious proceeding. As to the other affair, I know that nothing can be disposed of at present, but something may be secured and secreted, so as to be out of the reach of this impending ruin. You write me that as my own income is equal to * The whole of this passage is at once so perplexed and cor- rupted, that Monsieur Mongault has thought proper to leave U untratislated ; I have not taken that liberty, but have taken advantage of the words, and, it is no unusual thing for our author's distress and svuOferings, to render his meaning very fliflScult to be discovered, even when there is no corruption in the text. ^ This very possibly might relate to the reason of our au- thor's being so keen in the affair of her testament, which be was willing should be kept secret from her. The whole passage tccording to the best readings, runs thus. Fide quceso eiiam nunc de tcstamento, quod turn factum, cum ilia qiusrere cmpe^ rat. Non credo te commorii ^ neque enim roaarit nc me qui" dem. s 3y4 CICERO'S EPISTLES to my wants \ you will readily contribute to any additional expences, which may be occasioned by the exigencies of my wife. I confide in your resources, but where are mine ? With regard to my wife, not to mention the other numberless vex- ations she has given me, what can be worse than the following ? You wrote her to send me cre- dit for twelve thousand serteces, this being the amount of the balance of my money in your hands. She sent me no more than ten thousand, which she said was all the balance that remained. Now if she could withhold so considerable a part of so small a sum, I leave you to judge what bhe would have done had the sum been large. Philotimus is not yet arrived ; nor has he so much as acquainted me, by a letter, or an ex- press, of what he has done. People, who come from Ephesus, say, that tliey saw him engaged in a law suit respecting his own affairs. My concerns, it is very probable, are postponed till Caesar's arrival. Therefore I am of opinion that he is charged with nothing which he thinks of consequence enough to occasion his sending an express to me, and consequently that I become more * Orig, Nam quod scrihls, nobis nostra^ et tua Terent'itP,for the son of Quintus Gallius, has restored to Sallust all his slaves.- He came to transport Caesar's troops into Sicily, and he was instantly to set out for Caesar at Patrae. If Caesar s should « go to Sicily, I will resume my thoughts of draw- ing nearer the city. I am unusually anxious for an answer to what I last wrote to you, in which I have begged your advice. Farewel. Dated August the 15th. EPISTL£ * This city lay near Antioch and Apamea. 3 This was not Sallast the historian, but Cnj^us Sallust, who had been n^usestor under Bibulus in Syria. EPISTLE XXIV. On the 25th of August, I received your letter dated the 19th, and I no sooner read my bro- ther's letter ', than it renewed, in the most sen- sible manner, my forgotten grief, from the for- mer base injuries done me by him. Though the laws of friendship could, by no means, dis- pense with your sending me that letter, yet I wish it had not been sent. With regard to what you write concerning my wife's Will, you must see what is to be done, and in what manner. I formerly sent you what she had written to me concerning that money, and I shall make use of the credit you gave me, as I shall have occasion. It is unlikely that Caesar will be at Athens the 1st of September, for he meets with great obstruc- tions in Asia, particularly from Pharnaces. It is said, that Sylla had no sooner reached the twelfth legion, than they pelted him with stones, and it is believed that none of the troops will march* C^sar is expected immediately in Sicily from Patras, but if the above news is true, he must of necessity come hither. But I should be bet- ter * This letter was addressed to Caesar by Quintus Cicero, and, being greatly to our author's disadvantage, Caesar generoush put it into the hands of Balbu^, that it might be conveyed to Cicero. S9S CICERO'S EPISTLES ter pleased if he were to continue his intended route, for 1 might then find some means of es- -caping from this place. At present, I am afraid, tliat he expects I should Avait for him, and, amonffst other inconveniences, I am here much depressed by the heavy atmosphere of this place. You advise me to accommodate myself to the time, I would take your advice if my circum- stances would permit, and if I could do it by any means ; but so great has been my error, and so heavy the sufferings from my relations, that I neither can do, nor can 1 pretend to do, any thing worthy of my character. You may recollect the times of Sylla. It is true, he was, perhaps, not very moderate in the exercise of his power, but in other respects, he drew his sword in the best of causes. But the present times are such, that I ought to forget myself, and to consult the welfare of the public, whose in- terests indeed are combined with my own. I beg you, however, to write to me as often as possi- ble, especially as I correspond with no other person ; and though I had correspondence with all others, still I should be anxious for letters from you. You write me, that I can be of service in reconciling Caesar to my brother, I informed you already, that he instantly agreed to all the requests of the younger Quintus, without the least mention of me- Farewel. EPISTLE TO ATTICUS. EPISTLE XXV. 399 X HE packet sent by the courier of Balbus came duly to my hand ; for in your letter to me, you seem to be afraid that I did not receive that packet, and mdeed, I wish I never had ; for the contents of it have renewed my sorrows. And, if they had fallen into other hands, they would not have furnished material information. For what can be now more notorious than my bro- ther's hatred of me, and the perfidious letters he has written concerning me. Caesar, it is true, seems to intimate his disapprobation of my bro- ther's baseness, by his sending those letters to his friends ; but in my opinion, his object w^as to render my misfortunes the more public. You tell me, that you are afraid his unworthy con- duct may injure him with Caesar, and that the consequences ought to be prevented. But let me tell vou, that C^sar granted him pardon, even before I interceded in his behalf. Tliis gives me little concern, but I feel sorry that the indulgence shewn him did not proceed from re- gard to me. I believe Sylla will be here with Messala to- morrow, having met with a repulse from the troops, who refused to march till they receive the payment of their arrears. They are going post haste to Caesar. He will, therefore, contrary to their expectation, come hither. It is true, he will 400 CICERO'S EPISTLES will be long upon the road, for he orders his march so, that he remains several days in every town. Pharnaces, however, in spite of all his efforts, will retard him \ How then, do you think, I am to act? For, at present, I am scarcely able to breathe in this thick atmosphere, and thus pain of body is added to the anguish of my mind. Shall I commission the gentlemen who are going to C«sar, to intercede for me, and in the meanwhile, come nearer to Rome ? Bestow some thoughts, I beg of you, upon this point, and assist me with your advice, which hi- therto you have not done, though I have often requested you. I know, it is a matter of great difficulty. But consider at the same time, my distress. It is likewise of great imix>rtance to me, that I should see you. This object, indeed, if gained, would be of great service to me. Comply with your promise in attending to the Will. * Cicero was mistaken here j for the war witli Pharnaces detained Caesar no more than five days, and having beat him as soon as he saw him, he sent to the senate, the celebrated la- con^ account of Veni, vidi, vici. END OF THE SECOND VOLUME. K. EHwanl*. Printer, Cnme-Cuurt, ilect-Street. ■m ^ >^ ^SLii^s^t-;.^ .*,«^»*:i*v**.*Jr z ■jt'.V'wit #*i«-'JS'-rtt-*;i-'x:-^^«.l>»i4-r5 ^ *<*^:2i*-:.>r-r^- IS! iSl8^i?iS Ji'^i.'' W4*?''-*. i'^i.^f' I'W t. S^^*ffii''?^' "->; '=^ ?eu \ s^^' Columbia ^mba«ttj> uitl)c€itpiifilrtogork LIBRARY :«■ iil'^%'- |j^?i^" :«''^*^ '^* =,ri :^. !''//' ,=*.itw 1^^ 4/^^^ S*v _ r* "J < ?Tft^ >A^^- ^ ?,IC w^y: kp- /- 4,- ,1; « . -^i>-^^-^---l:rJi TiVSaS Jv,:^»>] ^^^ Librarian in charge. due on the date indicated below, or at the ^^M^^S^kWl ^ iefinite period after the date of borrowing, as Sl^-^S^V^^ ■ « library rules or by special arrangement with Wi^'lll^'^i^^ I charge. ^^^<^X^J^V\. t /Tm date borrowed .>;/^J DATE DUE 12J^4^ DATE BORROWED DATE DUE »-"l:1.. gS^^^v C28(842)H50 Jf;' "■^1 ft «- Tm. v>: - I s # s ■ «: I It if'-i CONTENTS OF VOLUME IIL < '♦ BOOK XII. An interval of six months elapsed between the last letter of the former book, and the first of this, in which the history of Cicero's own time is continued during part of the years of Jlome 707, and 7O8. ' p. 1 BOOK XIII. • The letters of this book begin the first of June, and end the J 8th of December, in the year of Rome 70S, and besides a great deal of Cicero's private history, mention a variety of public transactions. » p. ^3 BOOK XIV, XV, XVI. Were written between the 15th of March, and the last of November 709, and exhibit a noble history of our author and his own times, from the death of Caesar, to the commence- ment of the war between Octavius and Antony. P. 187, 253, 319 I .1' # \ CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK XII. I ■ ^ .> EPISTLE L OEVEN long days have now passed, since I left you, and I write you this letter before daybreak, as I am leaving my country-house. I think of passing this day at Anagni \ and to-morrow at Tusculanum, that I may keep my appointment with you on the 26th. I think I could fly to em- brace my daughter, and to fondle your little Attica. I pray you to let me hear about the latter, so that, while I stop at Tusculanum, I may be ^ This town still retains its name, and lies about twelve leagues from Rome. Vol. III. B f 2 CICERO S EPISTLES be informed of the little prattler ; or if she is in the country, let me know what she writes to you. Meanwhile, either send in writing, or deliver to her in person, my compliments, and the same to Pilia; and though it is not long till we meet, yet write to me whatever shall occur. As I was folding up this letter, your express, who had travelled all night, brought me one from you ; and I am very sorry to find that your Attica has a slight fever. I fully understood from your letter, all the other circumstances I wanted to be informed of. In reply to your re- mark, that my morning vigour begins to decline, I experience no other marks of advancing age than a decaying memory. For I am to be with Axius on the 27th, with you the 28th, and with my brother the day on which I arrive, that is the 26th. This, as having no news, is all I have to s^y. You will then ask, why should you write at all ? Why not write about nothing, as well as t^lk about nothing, when we meet? Let me tell you, there is a pleasure in talking, if it \VPr^ no more tlian to bear one another talk. TO ATncus. $ I^TISTI^ EPISTifE II. 1 HOUGH I have told you in my last, we have here no news, yet it is rumoured that Murcus has perished by shipwreck^; that Asinius PoUio" has fallen alive into the hands of Pompey's sol- diers ; that the same storm forced fifty ships to put into Utica; that Pompey^ cannot be found, and that Patietus* is very positive, that he has not been in any of the Balearic islands * ; but all these reports are destitute of authority. I was willing, however, that you should know how we entertain ourselves in your absence. Mean- while, public plays are celebrated at Praeneste^ where Ilirtius with the leaders of Caesar's party at present remains, and the exhibitions, it is said, will continue for eight days. What an entertain* ment ! What luxuries ! And in the meanwhile, the 1 This news was false. 2 He was the famous captain, orator, poet, and critic, who afterwards made such a figure under Augustus Caesar, and who is celebrated by Virgil and Horace. ^ He was the son of the great Pompey. * He was by birth a Spaniard, and a favourite of Caesar. ^ Fiz. Majorca, Minorca, and Yvica. ^ This town lay near to Tusculanum, and is at present called Palestrine. B 2 r 4 CICERO'S EPISTLES the fdte of the war is, perhaps, decided. Excellent men ! Balbus goe^ on building in his own way, for why should he be troubled? Now, if you ask my opinion, let me tell you, he enjoys life, because he thinks that such enjoyment does not consist in virtue, but in pleasure. Meanwhile, you are asleep'. Now is the time, if you would prove yourself a true Epicurean, for reducing to practice the grand maxims of your sect. If you ask what I think that is; I answer, it is to enjoy life witli pleasure. But enough. — 1 shall sooq see you, and I hope you will con^e directly to my house. For we must appoint a day of audience to Tyrannio^ when we shall determine what-f ever else requires deliberation. EPISTLE III. 1 THINK you arc the only man living, who stands less » Our author here makes use of a good many familiar cant words, of which I have given the sense, and which I leave the commentators to explain. The stress of his wit lies, in paying a very fine compliment to Atticus, by accusing him of inconr sisteacy with the principles of his sect, which were, that every man should enjoy life as much as possible, without regarding any body but himself j whereas Atticus was continually em, ployed in the duties of his family and friendship. * He had written a book, which, it seems, he was to rea4 to our author and Atticus. TO ATTICUS. 5 less upon compliments than I do, and whatever differences we may have with others, we have none between ourselves. I tell you then no more than the plain truth, when I avow to you, my deafest friend, that Tusculanum, though it is my fa- vourite residence, is insipid ; nay, Elysium itself would afford me no enjoyment, were I to live in either without your company. Therefore, as I suppose, and know, you are equally impatient for my company, as I am for yours, let us do the best we can to pass away these three days of ahr sence. But I wish I knew what has passed to- day about the saleS or what day you can go thither. Meanwhile, I divert myself with books, but I think myself unfortunate, in not having with me the history of Vennoniusl But I must not forget my business. I have three ways of re- covering the debt due to me from Caesar. To purchase the confiscated goods; a purchase more 1 There is somethii>g very dark in all this Epistle, because it chiefly relates to private business. I have translated this pas- sage differently from Monsieur Mongault, because I am of opi- nion, Caesar owed Cicero money, as w'dl appear hereafter, and bad security from him upon forfeited estates, which were sold by Meto, and Cicero wanted Atticus should be present when Meto sold those goods, in order to receive his money. I shall just observe, that Meto was the name of a Greek Philosopher, who invented the Cycle of nineteen years, and which was there- fore called Meto's year. * He proved to be a very bad author. >' I 6 CICEROS EPISTLES more hateful to me than the loss of the debt would be ; and in fact, besides the disgrace at' tending it, it is no better than losing my money \ Or else I must accept security from the buyer, to be paid a year hence. But whom shall I trust with my stock ? For my broker's year will, I am afraid, be as long as that of his Greek name- sake .^ Or lastly, I must, like Vectenus, make a composition for half the sum. Think, there* fore, upon this. Now I am afraid, that the auctioneer will not make this sale, but while the games are celebrating, will hasten there to swell the praise to be given to the illustrious man who bestows them. But we will think of it. EPISTLE IV, Jtlow agreeable, how d^ightful were your let- ters to me. The day of their arrival was, believe me, a day of festivity. I am grieved to learn from ^ Because he expected Caesnr could not long hold the go- vernment, nnd he knew that when he was dead, ail his acts would be reversed, especially his gifts of forfeitures. * Fix. Meto, who seems in fact, to have been a broker be- tween Caesar and Cicero. After all that can be aaid, the sense is very uncertain, and Manutius thinks, not without a shew of probability, that Meto himself was out author's debtor, while Monsieur Mongault is of opinion, that it is a cant word for C«sar himself. TO AtlTCUS. f from Tyro, that you experienced some symptoms of a fever. 1 will therefore, take your advice in enjoying myself here a day longer. But the point with regard to Cato is a very delicate one. It is not for me to write of him in such a manner as to hope for indulgence, far less for applause, from your guests, for my work. Supposing I should drop all mention of his patriot speeches in the senate, his zeal for his country, and his readiness to serve the public, and but slightly no- tice his dignity and consistency ; even that would give offence to the favourites of Caesar. But let me tell you, a patriot like Cato cannot be cele- brated without giving him this noble testimony ; that he foresaw all that has happened now, and all that must happen hereafter ; that he laboured resolutely to prevent it, and when he could not, rather than see it, he ceased to live. Is there a favourite ' of Caesar, who can, with patience, bear the mention of such a character ? But I beg you will take care of your health, and use, with- out delay, that prudence to re-establish it, which you discover in all your other concerns. KPISTLE 1 Orig, Alledius. Tbere have been great disputes al^ut this name, but it is most probable that he was some Roman, who was a favourite boUi with Cicero and Caesar. 8 CICERQS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS, 9 EPISTLE V. iVIy brother Qaintus yiust possess^ but a smalf portion of sense, or he would not rejoice that his son and Statius are received into the society of the Luperci, whereas they ought to think, that by so doing, they bring a double stain upon our family/ Philotimus is not many degrees- better. Their folly is exceeded only by my own, in being troubled at it. But what impudence was it in him to ask you to defray his share of the expences, supposing, as you say, your sources had not been exhausted, and that they flowed as plentifully as the fountain of Pirene, or of Arethusia \ for him to quaff, yet to talk to you ^ I have taken a little, and but very little, freedom with the original here. Quartum sapit is an indefinite term. 2 There were at Rome two sects of Luparcales (the officers of an ancient feast in honour of the god Pan) who had subsisted ever since the foundation of tliat city, the Fabiani, and the Quintiniani. A third sect with Antony at their head, was about this time instituted in honour of Caesar, called the Lupercii Julii. As the ceremonies of tliis feast consisted in riot and dis- order, and the institution itself was a proof of the abject spirits of the Romans at this time, Cicero was ver>^ justly offended, that his nephew and the two favourite domestics of the Cicero- nian family should enter themselves into this company. ^ There is an allusion hereto apassage in the first ode of Pin- dar. It seems, our author's brother had applied to Atticus for a sum of money to defray his son's part of the expence of this extravagant society. you about defraying those ridiculous expences, especially in his narrow circumstances ! Where can such folly end ? But let himself answer for it. 1 own, I am pleased with my Cato, but that is no more than Bassus Lucilius is with his com- positions ^ Do you, as you promise, inquire concerning Cffilius. I know nothing of the matter farther than I have told you. In respect to the bullion, we must carefully examine its qualities and not be guided by its apparent value '. Let me know, if you have any doubts as to Hortensius and Vir- ginius \ Yet, so far as I perceive, you will have difliculty to hit upon any measure that is more eligible. You will speak with Mustela in the terms you write to me, as soon as Crispus * shall arrive. I have written to Aulus, that I have sa- tisfied » % t 1 Cicero wrote a treatise entitled, Cato In defence of Cato's person and principles, which was answered by Csesar by another writing, which he entitled, Anti-Cato. The Lucilius Bassus here mentioned, seems to h^ve been some vain, pitiful writer of our author's acquaintance, 2 Our author very justly apprehended, there might be ano- ther revolution of government, which heought to provide against, and therefore intended to procure a sum in gold, by changing into ready money all his plate, and most valuable moveables j but he was afraid of being imposed upon, by having some base gold put upon him by the bankers, who were to transact the ex- change for him. 3 The persons here mentioned seemed to have been bankers. ♦ They seem to have been concerned with our author, as co- heirs in succession to an estate. 10 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS- 11 III tisfied Piso^ concerning what I knew extremely well of the gold. For I am of your opinion, that such a way of proceeding will be tedious and expensive, and at this time we are to collect every thing, and from every quarter. As to yourself, I easily perceive, that my concerns en- gross all your time, and all your thoughts, and that they even debar you from the pleasure you would have in paying me a visit as you pr9pose. But I imagine that you are with me, not only be- cause you are employed in my business, but because, I fancy I si^e in what manner you are employed, for I can tell what you are doing every hour of the day. 1 perceive that Tubulus^ was praetor under the consulate of Lucius Metellus and Quintus Maximus. Now I should be glad to know, undef what consuls Publius Scaevola the chief priest served as tribune of the commons. If I am not mistaken, it was under tlie following consuls, Csepio and Pompey, for he was prsetor under Publius Furius, and Sextus Atilius, You will therefore, make me sure as to the time of his tribuneship, and if you can, of what crime Tukulus was impeached. And I beg you will inquire * Aulus and Pi so were bankers. 2 Atticus was a great antiquarian in the history and genea- logy of the families of Rome. We find our author consulting bim upon several points, and particularly with regard to Tu- bulus^ whom he mentions in his treatise Definilus, inquire, whether Lucius Libo (I mean him who impeached Sergius Galba) was tribune of the commons in the consulate of Censorinus and Manlius, or under that of Titus Quintius and Manius Acilius, for I am confounded with what is written at the close of the Annals of Fannius^ a'bridged by Brutus. Upon the authority of this writer I represented Fannius, the historian, as the son-in-law of Lselius, It was my opinion that you had fully proved this fact, but I now think that Brutus and Fannius are in the right As to what I have ihserted in my Treatise upon famous Orators, it rests upon Hortensius, whom you know to be a writer of unquestionable au- thority". You will, therefore clear up these matters to me. I have sent Tyro to meet Dolabella. He will return to me on the 13th, and on the 14th, I look for you. I am sensible how dear my TuUia is to you. I beg, in the most earnest manner, that you will continue your affection to her. Let every thing, therefore, stand on its present footing, for so you advise me in your letter. Thoujih it is not at all amiss for me to avoid be- ing at Rome on the first of the month, or having any * Orig. Conturhat emm una epitome Bruti Fanniana an Bruii epitoma Fannianorum. This Fannius had written annals, which Brutus, who was a great epitomizer of useful works, liad abridged. '^ He was famous for having a good memorj*. , 12 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 13 any meeting with my creditors ^ and, thoagh it is proper I should have time to make up my ac-^ counts, yet nothing can compensate for my long absence from you. When I was at Rome, and was in expectation of seeing you every moment, yet no day passed without my thinking the hours long till I saw you. You know, that I am far from loving compliments, and therefoje, what I express, often falls short of what I feel. EPISTLE A I. 1 BEG you will take care, that there is not too much alloy in the gold of Caelius. I am no judge of such matters, but" surely, the exchange has been sufficiently to my disadvantage, and should I be imposed by this gold — But, what am I talking; I leave all to you. The following is the abrupt and unconnected stile of Hegesias', which 1 The original here is very obscure, if not vitiated, but I believe, I have hit upon Cicero's meaning. The interest of money amongst the Romans wag paid commonly in the begin- ning, or middle of every month. 2 Monsieur Mongault reads here. Ego ista novi, but I think, the common reading is better. Ego ista non novi, because he makes use of the like expression in the last letter, when he speaks of the banker Caelius. 3 Hegesias was an Athenian orator, who affected what the English call a snip-snap stile, which found a great many advo- cates^ ^ «( i which Varro so much commends. *' Now, as to Tyrannio,— is it so ? — Sure, it cannot be— What without me !- After I, who had so much time upon my hand, so often refused to read his book without you, " How will you answer to me, for what you have done ? There is but one way, and that is, by sending me the book, which I earnestly entreat you will do. And yet, I shall not have greater pleasure in the book than I have had in knowing that you admire it For, I love in literature as in government, every thing that is favourable to the people, and I am glad that you have had such pleasure in an essay on so un- interesting a subject. Yet, that has been always your way. You pant for knowledge, the only food of the mind. But let me know what ser- vice those observations, eitiier acute or serious, can be to me, in my treatise concerning the final good ? But this will be too long to be included in a letter, and, perhaps, you are even now bu- ried in some concern of mine ; and for the ex- quisite entertainment which you had in my little garden, you shall repay me with all that is re- lined, and all tbat is useful on this subject'. But cates, and amongst others Vgrro. But our author was no friend to it. 1 This is a very obscure passage, and M. Mongault is the first that has thrown any light on it. Cicero had read his Dia, Jo|ue on tha celebrated Orators in his own garden, to his fiien4 Attic^s, 14 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 15 But to return where I left off. If you love me, send me Tyrannio's book. It is now your pro- perty, because he has presented it to you. What, have you, a man of business, so much leisure, as to be able even to read my Orator* ? Go on, I take it kindly, and will take it more kindly, if you will order your transcribers to in- sert Atticus. In the absence pf Cicero, Atticiis received a treatise from Tyrannio, with which he was much delighted, and in giv- ing his friend an account of it, he alhides to the entertain- ment which he had previously received in Cicero's garden, where he retired perhaps to peruse the work of Tyrannio : isto asso sole in pratulo tuo sum abusus, " I took the liberty of en- joying in tlie open sun a repast, similar to that which I before had with you in your garden." Cicero in reply;, taking up the sanu; metaphor, adds. As I am composing a treatise Definihus bonorujn, I wish to obtain of you any thing, which, in the work you so much admire, relates to my subject. But extracts from it may be too tedious for a letter, and I will wave it till I see you. Then I will demand, by reperusing the book, or repeat- ing to me the contents of it, a full compensation for the en- croachments you have made in my garden, and for the pleasure you have stolen without my permission ; Pro isio asso sole, qyo iu ahusus es in nostro pratulo, a (e nitidum soiein unctumque repetimus. There is here an allusion to the practice, usual among the Romans, of walking uncovered in the sun, and of walking with the skin anointed with oiK The former was called sol assus, the latter sol unctus. Cicero, in modesty, de- scribes the pleasure which Atticus had in reading his w^orks by sol assuSf the least desirable mode of recreation, while the gratification to be repeated from reperusing the treatise of Ty- rannio by sol unctus. — E. * This sentence is taken from a speech of Menedemus, ii> the Heautontiraoromen of Terence. 8e«»t, not only in your copies, but in those of others, the name of Aristophanes for that of Eupolis\ Caesar seems to me to ridicule your petition, which was expressed in a language e\e^ gant and polite". He desired you, however, not to inake yourself uneasy; and that, in such a manner, as left me no room to doubt of his favourable intention for you I am sorry your daughter's illness continues so long ; but, as she has now no shivering, I hope she will soon re- cover. EPISTLE Vll. X WROTE down every thing you wanted to know in the parchments^ I sent you, which I gave to Jlros. What I wrote was short, but it contains more in substance than you wanted to know. Amongst other things J mentioned my son, for it was from you I took the hint with regard to him. I spoke to him in the frankest manner, which I wish * Cicero's direction was so well followed in this particular, that we have no copy of his treatise with this blunder in it. ^ Orig. Quceso. Caesar piqued himself greatly upon his be- ing a critic on the purity of the Latin tongue. Atticus had pre- sented him a petition for some indulgences to the inliabitants of Buthrotum, who were likely to suffer severely for their at- tachment to Pompey, ^ OrifT. CodiciliSr 'A 16 CICERO'S EPISTLES wish you would learn from himself, when it suits your conveniency to talk with him. But why need I to wait till then ? I acquainted him, that it was at my desire you had inquired whether there was any thing he wanted, or wished for. He had a mind for Spain, and that, he said, would require handsome appointments. I told him, they should be the same as Publius had given to his son, or the Flamen Lentulus to his. With regard to his going to Spain, I started two objections. The first was the same I had men- tioned to you, that I was afraid of public re- proach. Had we not gone far enough in aban- doning the republican party, that we should take arms against it ? — In the next place, I told him, it would give him pain to see himself surpassed by his cousin in interest with the great men, and in all offices of honour. I pressed him to leave himself to my generosity, rather than indulge his own fancy, but that I would put no hard- ship upon him; and yet I complied with his wishes, because I understood, you was not averse to his going to Spain. I will, however, recon- sider the business, and I beg you will do the same. Our main object should be to remain quiet. It is hard to say, what may be the con- sequences should he go. But we shall consider farther. I wrote likewise, in the parchments, concerning Balbus, and I am still of the same mind, as soon as he shall return. But, if that should TO ATTICUS. 17 should not be soon, I will set out for Ram^ in three days. 1 forgot to tell you, that Dolabella is here with me. EPISTLE VIIL JVlosT people approve of my resolution epi^- cerning my son^ and the person, who is to at^ tend him, is well qualified. But let us previpn^sr ly take care of the first payment of my daugh- ter's fortune. The terin is at hand, and Dpla^ bella is ready to take his flight^. Let me fcnow I beg of you what Celer reports Caesar to have done with regard to the candid^t^s, wbeth^ himself hopes to obtain of Caesar a commission in Spain', or aa pffice in the city. To s^y th^ truth, I should be glad to know whethef tfe^'ie i^ ^y 1 Vt%. To send him to Athens. While his son was studying the language and literature of Greece in that refined seat of the muses, Cicero composed his elegant and useful Treatise on Morals, and addressed it to him at Athens. — E. 2 Currit ille. — M. Mongault properly understands ilh to mean Dolabella, from whom the payment was to be ex^icted^ and who was in haste to meet Caesar now returning from Spain. — E. 3 Utrum ipse in Fcenicularium an in Martium carnpum cngi tet, Faenicularius was a plain inHispania Boetica, whichSlrabo, lib. lii. calls /uwtf a9oy, from the fennel or grass with which it abounded.— 'E. Vol. III. C •^m 18 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 19 any necessity for my attending the elections at Rome, for T' cannot avoid obliging both yoiir wife^ and daughter. EPISTLE IX. JVIy abode here would be very agreeable, )and would be daily more so, were it not for the rea- son I mentioned to you in a former letter. No- thing could be more delightful than this solitude would be to me, did not the sonof Amyntas^ some- times break in upon me. What an incessant, what an insufferable prattler he is ! As to every thing besides, you can form to yourself, nothing that is more pleasant than is this villa, the shore, the prospect of the sea, and in short eveiy thing that is rouad me. But it is not worth while to swell a letter with these trifles. And yet I have nothing more material to write, and I am besides drowsy. EPISTLE 1 Whose brotiierCeler put in for a government. 2 Meaning Lucius Marcius Philippus from his being the namesake of Philip of Macedon, the son of Amyntas, and fa- ther of Alexander the Great. 1 . EPISTLE X. 1 SINCERELY Sympathize with you on the death bir Athamas\ It is natural for you to be con- cerned at his loss, but it ought not to be to ex- cess. Of all the various means of consolation^ (iie following is the most direct; let reason* el- feet in you what in others is effected by time. Let us take care of Alexis. He is a second Tyro, whom 1 have sent back sick to Rome, and if any epidemical disorder rage in your quarter, convey Alexis to my house with Tisamenus. You know that all the upper part of my house is empty. This I think is a fortunate circum- stance. EPISTLE XL » X HE death of Seius^ gives me a heavy heart But every human event ought to be borne with patience. For what is man, or how long time has he to employ himself below ? Let us bestow our attention upon things, which we have it in our 1 He was a favourite slave of Atticus. • He was a common friend to Atticus and our author. C2 20 CICERO'S EPISTLES our power to remedy, I mean the aifairs of the state; and even here we cannot avail much. How shall I behave in the senate ? That I may forget nothing, Caesonius writes me word, that Posthumia, the wife of Sulpicius, is arrived in his house, I have already told you, in answer to yoursi that I have at present laid aside all thoughts of the daughter of Pompey the Great'. As to the other lady you mention in your letter, I suppose you know her ; never did I see any thing more disagreeable. But I am soon to see you, and then we will talk farther of these mat- ters. Your Letter came to my hand after this was sealed up ; 1 am glad your daughter is in such good spirits, but am very sorry to hear that she is not free from her fever. EPISTLE XIL Concerning the payment of my daughter's fortune*, I request you to be more urgent. To accept 1 As there is a considerable distance of time between our author's last letter and this, the reader is to understand that, in the mterval, he had been divorced from Terentia, and he was now thinking of a second marriage. 2 The reader is to understand, that Tullia died in child-birth, a lew weeks or days after her divorce from Dolabella, and our autlior TO ATTICUS. Sf accept Balbus, as a substitute for the debt, is to leave it to their discretion. However finish the business some way or other. It is shameful that my affairs should lie in this disorder. The island near Arpinum, seems to be proper for the monu- ment I design to erect in honour of my daughter, but I am afraid it will not be sufficiently conspi- cuous, because it is too remote from the road. I therefore think of my gardens, but I must take a survey of them when I come to Rome. You shall have your own way with regard to the person who is to deliver the sentiments of Epicurus S yet I shall not hereafter be fond of living characters for speakers in my dialogues. You cannot imagine what difficulties I find in this matter. Let me therefore return to dead characters, for by them nothing can be taken amiss. I have nothing farther to write to you, and yet I make it a rule with myself to send you a letter every day, that I may provoke you to give me an answer, i;iot that I expect you will write to me upon any business, but I know not how it is, I am still impatient for your letters. Therefore, whether you have any thing material to author was so sensibly affected with her death, that he was up- on the extravagant design of celebratmg ^n apotheosis, and building a tenaple to her memory. . / Atticus was of opinion, tha.t our author ought to |r<;pres Apulems was a praediator, i. e. a jobber or conveyancer in land, and the affinity of this term to prcedator a roUer, leads jne to suspect, that Cicero here indulges his usual propensity to pun.^^E, ^ TO ATTICUS, 25 tuation was tolerable, though my leaving this place is the very thing which makes me sorry. For you can no longer administer to me the so- lace you once did ; all that endeared me to you is now vanished. I have already acquainted you by writing of Brutus's letter to me. He writes like a man of sense, but his letter was of no avail. 1 wish that he would come to see me, as he wrote to you he would. I make no doubt but that his presence would exhilarate me, because he has so great an affection for me. I beg that you will write me whatever you hear, above all, w^hen you think Pansa sets out I am concerned for Atti- ca, but yet I have great faith in her physician Craterus. Do not suffer Pilia to distress her- self; and moderate your own grief, which you too much manifest in sympathy with all your friends. EPISTLE XV. xVs you do not think, that a general excuse for the whole time is proper, I beg you will take care to excuse me from day to day with Apuleius. In this solitude I have no society, and jn the morning, when I have plunged myself into a thick rough wood, I never leave it before the evening. 26 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 27 evening. Next to yourself, I have no friend but solitude. In this I converse only by means of letters, and even that conversation is interrupted by tears, which I check as much as I am able, but hitherto the task of suppre^ing them is too hard for me. I will, as you advise me, write an answer to Brutus. To-morrow you shall have that letter. You will deliver it whenever you have an opportunity. ^ •■' EPISTLE XIV. i ^ WOULD not have you neglect your own busi- ness to come to me. If you should be longer detained, I would rather gome to you. Nor in- deed, would I have left your company, if any thing could possibly have done me service. Could my case admit of relief, it must come from you alone. As soon as it is in the power of man to give me comfort, that man must be yourself. Even at present I cannot enjoy life without you. But it was inconvenient to live at 'your house, and I could not live at my own, and had I been nearer Rome, yet still I could not be with you. The same business that now detain^ you from seeing me, would have detain- ed you then. Hitherto, I have found no such relief .as in this solitude. How I dread, lest Philip Philip should break into it, for he arrived yes- terday in the evening. Scribbling and reading do not sooth my sorrows/ but they stupify my brain. t:-' EPISTLE XVII. X HAVE a letter from Marcianus, informing you, that I am excused with Apuleius by Lajterensis, Nai&o, Laenas, Torquatus, and Strabo. I beg you will take care to write .to them in my name, to let them know how much I am obliged to them for this service. Flavins says, that about twenty- five years ago, I entered into engagements for Cornificius. The accused is. an opulent man, and Apuleius is a respectable conveyancer ; yet I beg, that you will take, care to consult the books of those who became securities with me, vvhether it is so or not. Before my edileship, I had no dealings with Cornificius. Yet the thing is possible, but I wish to be certain, and if yoii think proper you may summon his agent§. Yet, after all, what is it to me? though ^till one ought not to neglect such a thing. You will let me know, as soon as you know yourself, when Pansa sets out. Present.my compliments to your daughter, whom I beg you will take all manner pf care of, and to your wife. EPISTLE 28 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATncus. 29 EPISTLE XVIII. W^HiLE I avoid recollections which consume my heart with grief, I avoid consulting with you. But if I have still that unaccountable desire, ybu must pardon it. For some of the authors I am now reading, tell me, that the thing I so often have mentioned to you, and which I am so earnest that you should approve of, ought to be carried into execution ^ I mean, the intended temple, » It must be acknowledged, that our author was no more fixed in his principles of philosophy, than in those of govern- ment. Accidents and different situations of life had great im- pression upon both. It is true, he wished well to his country, and his heart was naturally good and sincere, but we find him sometimes not quite consistent with what he is at other times. When he wrote this letter, he was greatly affected by his daagKter'6 death, and in that^dispositionof mind which is most susceptible of religious apprehensions. This made him pay . the greater regard to the sentiments of those philosophers, who were the most averse to the Epicurean doctrine of his friend, aod who encooraged the belief of the ioMnortality of the soul, which our author in many parts of his works, treats as a doc- trine, the truth of which is more to be wished than hoped for. It is more than probable, that this book of consolation, of which only a few fragments now remain, was composed entirely upon the principles of the souls immortality, for otherways his build- ing a temple to the memory of his daughter, and in a manner Consecrating the same, must have appeared to Atticus ridicu- lous and fantastic. Meanwhile, it may be proper here to re- temple, and as you love me you will think of it. As to the plan, I fix without hesitation upon that of Clautius, neither have I any difficulties as to the materials ; but I cannot say the same as to the place where it is to stand. I beg, therefore, you would bestow some thought upon that For my own part, I will in this learned age, consecrate the memory of my daughter with inscriptions taken from every fine writer in Greece and Rome; though this may, perhaps, make my wound bleed afresh. But I now look upon myself as bound by a solemn vow and en- gagement, and I am more affected by that length of time in which I am to have no exist-* ence, than with the narrow (but to me it seems too long) span of life, that still remains to me in this world. I have left nothing untried, but am unable to find repose. For while I employed myself in that work which I formerly have mentioned to you, I soothed, mark, that the building such temples, or consecrated places by parents, to the memory of their children, is justly accounted by the most ancient and venerable authors to be the great sources of superstition. The grief of a parent upon the death of a child, being the more intense, and consequently more ex- travagant than that of a child upon the loss of a parent. Our author even tells, that the word superstition came from those who all day sacrificed, and prayed, that their children might outlive themselves. Quia iota die precalantur & immolalant ut sihi sui liberi superstites essent, superstitiosi sunt appellati. Lib. 1. de Nat. Dcorum. 30 CICERO'S' EPISTLES t^TO ATTICUS. 31 I soothed, as it were, ray anguish, ; but now I loath every thing ; nor can I find any better refuge than in solitude, which Philip, (as I was afraid he would) has not yet disturbed. For yesterday, as soon as he had paid me his compliments, he set out for Rome. I have, as you desired, sent you the letter which I have written to Brutus ^ vou will take care that it be sent off with yours; meanwhile, I have sent you a copy, that if you are not pleased with the contents, you may keep back the original. You write me word, that my domestic affairs are settling in due order ; I pray you write me these particulars ; for there are some I am impa- tient to know. Take care that Cocceius does not disappoint us. I think, from what- Eros writes, tliat we may depend upon Libo's word. x\s to the capital, I confide in Sulpicius and Eg- natius. I cannot imagine what your difficulties can be with regard to Apuleius, as it is so easy to obtain a dispensation. You write me, you intend to see me , I beg you will take care that it may put you to no inconvience. For the jour- ney is a long one, and should you be obliged to leave me soon, our parting will give me infinite pain. But every thing shall be as you wish. For my part, do what you will, I shall always both Uiink it right, and^that you do it out of affection for me. Yesterday, when I understood by letters froin others, I others, tha^t Antoay was arrived \l was surprised your letters mentioned iipthing about him : but you, perhaps, wrote th^m.^hejday before they were dated. Even those matters, however, give me no concern. But I am of opinion, that the purchase made by him was the cause which brought him back in such a hurry. As to what you write me, Terentia says con- cerning ^ He had set out for Spain, but came back in a hurry to Rome on the following account, fie was in great 'favour with Caesar, being one of the most proper instruments which that great man could employ in subverting the public virtue of his •countrymen, and consequently, the constitution of his country j not, I believe, that Caesar would hav^ desired either, had not both of them been incompatible with his safety. Add to this, that Antony was a man of wit and parts j he lived at immense expencie, and was in all respects, a soldier of fortune. This and his intimacy with Caesar, made him presume upon that great man's friendship, and he had bought most of Pompey's effects at Ruction, in hopes that Caesar would not call upon him for ..the payment. But Caesar was of all mankind the greatest master of his own passions, excepting that for power. Like oth^r great politicians, he encouraged his ministers in their ex- Uravaganoies, that he might have the popularity of punishing them. The buying of the great Pompey's effects, had raised a terrible clamour at Rome against Antony, and Caesar wisely ^availed Jiimself of it. For Antony neglecting to make payment (the sum being very large), Caesar ordered Lucius Plancas to 'seize all Antony's effects, and to sell them for discharge of the debt. The news of this order reached Antony's ears when he was on the road to Spain, and it was to prevent that sale that he returned in the hurry hientioned here. 32 CICERO'S EPISTLES 'f TP ATT^US. 33 m ceming the witnesses to my Will ^ ; you are, irt the first place, to believe, that I mind no such mat* ters, nor can any thing give me the smallest con- cern or sui-prise. But after all, in what does my conduct resemble hers ? She refused to call in those witnesses, whom she thought would inquire to know the contents of what they were to attest. But did I make any objection to that ? Let her then do as I have done. I am ready to produce my Will to any one that is disposed to read it. She may satisfy herself, that I could not shew greater regard, than I have shewn for my grand- son. As to my not inviting certain persons to witness its sealing up ; in the first place, it did not come into my bead ; and for this reason, in the next place, it was of no importance. Perhaps you may yourself remember, that I spoke to you to bring some of your friends to witness it. For what occasion was there for a great many ? It is true, I ordered my domestics to attend. You were of opinion that I sliould send for Silius ; and that put it into my head to send 1 Cicero was at this time thinking of marrying another wife. Pubilia, whom he aftewards married. This seems to have come to Tereatia*« ears, because Cicero had invited Pubilius, the lady's brother, to be wiUiess to his testament, and had omit- ted to send for the relations of his own and her famUy. This furnished Terentia wiUi matter of complaint, as if our author had done, or intended to do, something that was unhandsome towards his grandson, the son of Dolabella. -I s,end for Publius to bp present; though thero was no necessity foF eitb§^. Yqu ^)X^ naaPg-gg this point 4s you see proper. EPISTLE XIX. This,I own, is a very pleasant place ». Iti, embosomed in the very sea, and may be seen from Antium and Circe ; but, as in a long revo- lution of ages, the succession of property^ may be next to infinite, I am to take care, should the monument I think of continue to exist, that it shall have the same regard paid to it, as paid to consecrated places. I now give myself no trou- ble about revenues; I can be contented with Uttte. * Meaning Astura, lying between the promontory of An- tium, and that of Circe. * The ancients, as appears from the worlds of our author, and many others, were extremely delicate with regard to their burying places ; and they commonly excepted them from the other parts of heritage, which could be dispos^^d of by coo* veyance or succession, an §?.it wefe^ entailed them for ever upon the purposes to which they were originally designed. Cicero, therefore, in this passage, inclines to entail the spo^ where this temple should be biult, in the same manner, and nothing was wanting that laws or imprecations could effect to preserve such destinations for ever sacred and iniFiolable, Atticus seems to have advised Cicero to build his temple at Astura. Vol. III. D 34 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. S5 little. 1 sometimes think of purchasing some country seat on the other side of the Tyber, and chiefly, because I know no place that has a greater resort to it \ But we will consult about what seat it shall be when we meet together, but still we must order matters so, that the temple may be finished this summer. Meanwhile, do you agree concerning the pillars with Apellas^of Chios. 1 approve of what you write concerning Coc- ceius and Libo, and chiefly with regard to my sitting as judge*. I should be glad to know, if you have received any farther information con- cerning^ that bail, and likewise, what the agents of Cornificius,^ are saying ; but yet 1 should be soTvy to put you, who have so much business al- ready, to any extraordinary trouble in that affair. Balbus and Oppius have likewise written to me concerning Antony, and that their writing was agreeable to you, for fear I should have been disturbed. I returned them thanks, but I would have you to know, as I have already written to • you, thati am to be disturbed neither by that news, Dor any other that can possibly happen. If, as you i Because he intended there to build his temple, which he wanted to have as public as possible, to do honour to the me- mory of his daughter, 2 He at this time declined all the public duties of a senator, particularly that of presiding^ in tlie courts of law, or upon trials or arbitrations. •*■> you mentioned, Pansa is set out this day, you will instantly begin to write me, how soon you look for the arrival of Brutus> that is, what day he is to be at Rome. If you know where he is at present, you can pretty accurately conjecture the period of his return. As to what you write to Tyro concerning my wife, I beg, my dearest friend, that you will take the whole of that matter upon yourself. Nobody knows so well as you do, how far I am en- gaged in honour and duty, and as some think, in justice to my son. As to my own part, I am determined by nothing near so much as by the ties of virtue and honour, especially as I think all assurances of the other party \ are neither sincere nor stable. EPISTLE XX. JL ou seem not to be quite sensible, how very unconcerned I am about Antony, and every thing of that kind. With regard to Terentia, I informed you in the letter I wrote yesterday. You give me advice, and you say, you do it at the earnest request of my other friends^ that I should conceal the excess of my grief. Is it pos- sible * Meaning Terentia. D2 TO ATTICUS, $7 36 CICERO'S EPISTLES srble for me to do that better tlian by spending whole days in study ? I do it, it is true, not to conceal my affliction, but to sooth, and to cure my mind; but though it may not have the effect Imsh for upon myself, yet surely it conceals from the world the appearances of excessive grief This letter is considerably shorter, because I wait for your answer to my letter of yesterday. I am chiefly impatient for your sentiments with tegard to the temple, and I am somewhat cu- rious to know about Terentia. I beg you will inform me by your next letter, whether Cnseus Ctepio, the father of Servila, the wife of Clau- dius, perished by sea in his father's lifetime, or after he was dead, or whether Rutilia died be- fore or after the death of her son Caius Cotta? These questions relate to thl^ treatise I have composed concerning the means of mitigating affliction. EPISTLE XXI. X HAVE read^ and sent back to you, the letter of Brutus, which is by no means, a becoming an- 6wer to your request. But let him see to that', ^ ' and *' *» I have, in several animadversions upon our author's works, thrown out some doubts with regard to the conspiracy of Cati- liae, especially as it has been represented by our author. I shal ^ and yet it is a reflection on him to be ignorant of that matter. He supposes that C«^to first gave his vote for putting the conspirators to de§yth. Now all tlie other magistrates, excepting Caesar, iiad voted the same way before, and as th^ opi-r nion of Ceesar, who then spoke only in hie qua- lity of prjetor, was so severe, he thinks that the sentiments of the consulars, Catulus, Serviliua^ the Luculli, Curio, Torquatus, Lepidus, Gellius, Volcatius, Figulus, Cotta, Lucius Caesar, Caius Piso, with Manius Glabrio, and Silanus, and Murena, ehall not here trouble my reader with my reasons for being of a very different opinion from the rest of the world upon that subject, and for believing that our author, impelled by his own fears, put the conspirators to death without any legal evidence of their guilt. I cannot, however, help observing, that the passage before us vpry strongly confirms my suspicion of Ci- cero's insincerity in his whole account of thgt matter. Not- withstanding that force of aiRiction for the loss of his daugjl^- ter, which he so feelingly represents, we here see his vanity get so much the better of him, that he employs his friend Attl- cm to prevail with Brutus, who was the very soul of trqthj, to alter a narrative of that conspiracy which he had njade jn a panegyric upon his uncle Cato, and in which our author thought he was not mentioned in terms sufficiently for his advantage, 'in fact, Brutus begged to be excused, and adtt^itted only of one circumstance, in which he was set right by Atticus. The rea- der is to observe, that Caesar, as praetor, spoke before Cato, who was only tribune elect. As such, however, he spojce be- fore all the private senators, so that the omnes here mentioned, is to be understood^ not of the whole body of the senarej but of those who bore or had borne pi^lic employments. »•« 'V 38 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 39 Murena, consuls elect, were more mild. Why then was the sentence drawn up according to Cato's opinion ? The reason was, he spoke to the point more perspicuously and copiously than the others did. With regard to me, he praises me for reporting, not for discovering, the con* spiracy, without mentioning the spirit I raised against the conspirators, and that the measure which followed was no more than what I re- solved upon before tlie thing was debated in the senate. Cato extolled all this to the skies, and was of opinion that it ought to be inserted in the sentence, for which reason a majority divided for his motion. Brutus thinks he pays me a mighty compliment when he calls me an " excellent consul." But could an enemy speak of me in colder terms ? With regard to the rest, in what manner has he spoken to you ? All he desires of you is to correct the resolution of the senate. He could not have avoided dging this, had his. mistake been pointe'H out to him by the most despicable of all our acquaintance \ But let him answer for that likewise. As you approve of my design respecting a coun- try-house ^ I beg you will take an active part in the 1 Orig, Ranius, who was, it seems, a person of little or no consideration. « Orig, Horti Gardens, which I have translated, a country bouse or seat, of which the gardens were the chief embellish- ment. a I should be mistaken, I should choo^ito^^fferi by being deceived by. her rather th^n myself. A hundred thousand serteces must b^^ paid to Ovia, the wife of Caius Lollius; Eros say^,; he cannot raise the money without me, I suppose on account of his giving some goods and effects to be appraised. I wish he had talked of tlie matter to you, for if, as he writes me, it be true that matters are in such readiness, the affair may be finished by you ; I beg you will inqpre|qto, and settle the whole business. You invite me to resume my functions in the Forum, the place which 1 had declined before I was overtaken by affliction. What is the Forum to me ? Where are its courts of justice ? Where is the senate, while those whom I cannot behvlli with patience, are perpetually rushing upon my sight? You tell me, the public call upon me to come to Rome, that they will not dispense witii nvy < pre^encej^ • ' He owed our author money. , >• X 40 CICfilWntlStLES t)resence, and that I haVe been dispensed \\ith hitJ^rte bn!y upoti certain terms. Bat be it kndwn to you, my frifetidj that for this long tilne^ ydH sfn^y hav^ bfeen ttidiie dear to me than all «hfe republic, an(i 1 have not such a cohtetttptibfe opinion ^ myself, as not to choose to follow tny own beWSweftts, thah that of all tfie otters you mention, be i?ho they ^ilh And yiet I do ftbt fexceed the twunds that are prestribfed me bi^ ttie most learned authors, whose writings I have thoroughly read over, and all that is upon the subject M consolation, because I thought it % taark of courage in a patierft to search for his cure. Nay, I havetransplantted their sentiments into my own works, which surely was no symp- tom of a desponding, abject, spirit. I beg therefore, that you will not call me from this re- gimen, into tl»e bustle of life, test I should relapse.^ EPISTLE XXII. It is not acting by me with your usual friend- ship, to load me with the whole affair of Terentia. For those are the very wounds which I canndt bear to have bandied without the deepest an- guish. Do therefore, all you can to sooth my aflSiction; I ask no more of you than you can do,, and *t *» TO ATTICUS. 41 and besides, you are the only person who can discover her true sentiments. As I perceive you are in some difficulty, with regard to Rutilia, I beg you to write to me as soon as you have ascer- tained the fact, and whether Clodia survived Decimus Brutus, the consular. You may know the first from Marcellus, or at least from Post- humia; and the second from Marcus Cotta, from Scyrus or Satyrus. I beg leave again to put you in mind of the seat I am to purchase, for which I must employ, if my own means should be ineffectual, (which I hope will not be the case) the credit of my friends^ who, I am sure, will not disappoint me. Besides, there are some efifects which I can sell ve^ry conveniendy- But if you will assist me, I need to sell nothing, but pay interest for a year and no longer for the sum I agree for, which is the method I would choose. The seat of Drusus is the most likely for my purpose, for he wants to sell it Next to this, I think on that of Lamia, but he is not at Rome. Do you, however, examine this with all the diligence in your power. Silius makes use of no country seat, and he can live very well upon the interest I shall pay him. Consider the business as your own concern, without minding Thy domestic affairs, which 1 am very little anxious about; but you are to consider what I wish for, and my motives for wishing it EPISTLE /■ 42 < CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XXIII. jL ou begin your letter to me in such a manner, that I expected some news from it. You tell me that though I did not mind what passed in Spain \ yet that you still would inform me by writing. But I perceive that all you write is in answer to my letters, particularly concerning the Forum and the senate. But you tell me my house is a Forum. What occasion have I for a house itself, if I am debarred from the Forum ? Long, long, my dearest friend, have I made it no secret, and I make it none now, that I lost all relish for life, after losing the only blessmg that could make me love it. I therefore, c6urt soli- tude; and yet, should any accident draw me to Rome, I will endeavour with all my power (and I know it to be m my power) that none be- sides myself shall perceive my anguish, nay, if passible, that even you should not perceive it. There is another cause for my not going to Rome. You remember the requ^t which Aledius' made to you ; if in this situation they pester J Caesar was then carrying on the war against Pompey's sons in Spain, of which Atticu&had promised to give our author some accx)unt. ' He was a friend of Caesar's, and he had informed Atticus bow kindly Cxsar would take it, if our author would so far countenance his proceedings as to appear in the senate at Ronae. TO ATTICUS. 4S pester me, what would they do should I go to Rome? You may manage with Terentia, in the manner you write me, and in so doing you extri- cate me from a load of affliction already insup- portable. But now to make you sensible that my sorrows, great as they are, have not bereft me of sense, I observe that you mention, in your annals, under -what consuls Garneades ^ came at the head of that embassy to Rome. Now I want to know what the subject of that embassy was. If I mis- take not, it was concerning the city of Oro pus, but 1 am not sure. Taking that however for granted, I should be glad to know upon what subjects they disputed, and likewise who was the most distinguished amongst the Epicureans at Athens, and at that time presided in their gar- dens*, and likewise who were the leading states- men in that city. All this I believe you may learn from Apollodorus '• lam concerned about your * This celebrated embassy came from Athens, with the phi- losopher Carneades at the head of it, in order to obtain a miti- gation of a fine, imposed by the Romans, upon the iTthenians for plundering the city Oropus. ^ The disciples and followei-s of Etplcurus held their schools and assemblies in his Gardens at Athens, in the same manner as the disciples of Piato did in the Academy, those of Aristotle in the Lyceum, and those of Zeno in the Portico, ^ He was an Epicurean, and had written the life o^^hk master, with the annals of tlie old phiiosopliers. 18^ h 44 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 45 your daughter's illness, but, as it is slight, I hope she is in a fair way. 1 have not the least doubt with regard to Gamala's death ; for why should Ligus be the only happy father? For my part, had I my choice of all I could desire in thi^ life, I never could admit of comfort. You write me how much the seat of Drusus is valued at ; 1 heard of it before, and if I mistake not, I mentioned it in my letter to you of yester- day, but however dear, there is no paying too much for a thing which one must have. What- ever opinion you may entertain, yet I know enough of myself to be sensible that that pur- chase, if it does not abate my anguish, will at least acquit me of a debt of duty. I have writ- ten to Sica, because he is the friend of Lucius Cotta. If we can come to no agreement about the gardens beyond the Tiber, Cotta has, near to Ostia, a seat in a very frequented place. It is small indeed, but it is more than large enough for my purpose. I beg you would think of that, and do not be alarmed at the price of the other gardens. I have now no occasion for plate, for raiment, or for houses of pleasure. This seat is all I want. I know who can assist me in the purchase, but you will talk with Silius, for no- thing could suit me better than this seat. I have given Sica a commission concerning this matter likewise, and he writes me in answer, that he has 21 fixed fixed a day to treat with Silius. Therefore write me what he has done, and do as you judge proper. ;^ . ' EPISTLE XXIV. It happens luckily that Silius has settled that matter, for I was no* willing to disappoint him, and I was in some doabts about ray own ability. You will finish that affair with Ovia, in the terms you promise me. I think now it is high time to dispose of my son. But let me know whether he can have credit upon Athens, for what money he may have occasion for, or whether he must carry it with him in specie? I beg you would consider the whole matter, how, in what manner, and when, he is to proceed. You may learn from Aledius, whether Publius^ is to go to Africa, and at what time; and then I beg you will let me know by a letter. But to return to my own trifling amusements, I desire you will inform me whether Publius Crassus, the son of Venuleia, died in his father'sjiifetime, as I think he ^ He probably was the same, who, after the death of Caesar, embraced the caus6 of liberty, and was proscribed by the tri- umviri. He afterwards came iato great favour with Augustus 'Caesar, who valued him tlie more for having the courage to carry about with him a portrait of Brutus. ^ # a 46 CICERO'S EPISTLES f he did, or afterwards. I have the same question to ask with regard to Regillus, who, if I remem- ber rightly, died before his father Lepidus. You will finish the affair of Cispius, and likewise that of Praecius. I am extremely glad of Attica's re- covery. Pray make my compliments to her, and toPilia. "* EPISTLE XXV. j^iCA has Ai^itten me a very particular account of his transaction with Silius, and he informs me, as you do, that he has laid the matter before you. I am pleased with my bargain and the terms, but I should choose to pay him in money, rather than give him any thing in exchange ; for Silius will put no value upon a house of pleasure. Now, with regard to my land estate, I can live upon it, and that is as much as I can do. You will ask, how am I to procure the ready money? Press Heynogenes for the payment of the six thousand sertece*, especially now that I am straitened for money ; and 1 perceive I have as much in my house. As for the remainder of the sum, I either will pay interest for it to Silius, while my affair with Faberius is settling, or I will take a draft from Faberius for the sum, upon some of^is debtors, I shall likewise receive somewhat from % TO ATTICUS. 47 from another hand, but yoif 'inust superintend the whole transaction. For my own part, I prefer his seat to that of Drusus, nor indeed were they ever compared together. Take my word for it, I have but one jnotive for the purchase, in which, I acknowledge, I am too much actuated by vain glory, but I beg you will continue to humour me in this failing. As to what you tell me concern- ing the manner in which a patriot ought to spend his old age, every thing of that kind is over with me : I have other pursuits in view. EPISTLE XXVI. Ore A writes to me, that though he has not closed with Aulus Silius, yet he himself would come hither the 22d. I am too sensible of the multi- plicity of your affairs, not to excuse you. I am extremely sensible how willing, or rather, how anxious, and how earnest you are, that we should meet With regard to Nicias^ whom you men- tion, there* is no man's company wh«m I could be more fond of than his, were I in a disposition to enjoy the charms of his conversation ; but so- litude and retirement are now my only enjoy- ments. I am most desirous of Sica's company, because he can bear solitude so welL Besides, you ■■V ^ He was a famous grammarian. # 4S CICERO'S EPISTLES you are no stranger 4 J the infirmity, the delicacy, ^d the habitft of our friend Nicias. Why there- fore should I give him pain, when he can give me no pleasure? His atfectionate offer, how- ever, is to me extremely obhging. Respecting the subject' you touch upon in your letter, I am deteruiined to give you no answer. For I hoped to have prevailed with you to rid me of my burden. My compliments to your wife and daughter. EPISTLE XXVL It is true, Tarn no stranger to the terms of that transaction with Silius, but, to-day, 1 suppose, I shall be instructed by Sica in all the particulars. YoH say that you know notliing about the seat of Cotta. It is, I assure you, a small, mean villa^ situated beyond the seat of Silius, which I sup- pose you are no stranger to. It has no ground belonging to it, and it is large enough for no other purpose but that which I intend. I want a place diat is greatly frequented. If any agree- luent is made, that is, if you make any, (for it aH rests upon you), respecting Silius's Doansion, there is no occasion for me to think any Hiare concerning that of Cotta. I wiU follow your advice 1 Vi%, His difference with TereDlia* TO ATTICUa 49 advice with regard to my son. He shall be master of his own time, and you will take care to get him credit for his necessary expences. You will let me know, as you mention, when you have learned any thingfrom Aledius. I observe, from your letters, as no doubt you do from mine, that neither of us have any sub- ject for writing. It is still the same threadbare story over and over again every day, yet I cannot, for my life, refrain writing to you daily, that you may give me an answer. Send me word if you know any thing concerning Brutus ^ for I suppose, by this time, you know the place where he waits for Pansa* If, as is usual, he waits for him on the frontiers of his government, he may be at Rome towards the beginning of next month. I wish it was not so soon, because I have many reasons for being extremely averse to leave Rome. I am therefore in some doubts with myself, whether I ought not to feign some ex- cuse for them, which I perceive would be no hard matter for me to do. But I shall have lei- sure enough to think of that matter. My com- pliments to your wife and daughter. EPISTLE ^ Bnitus was then governor of Cisalpine Gaul, and he was to be succeeded by Pansa. Vol. hi. . E 50 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 51 EPISTLE XXVIII. SiCA had written so particularly concerning that affair with Silius, that I learned no more of it from talking with him than I had done from his letters. Therefore, should you meet with Silius, you will write to me, if you see occasion. As to the person, w ho you suppose has been sent by Terentia to me, I am quite in the dark whe- ther any such person has been sent or not, at least no body has talked with me upon that head. You will therefore, proceed as you have begun, and if you can, in any respect, prevail upon her, which I think indeed is impossible, you may, if you please, introduce my son to her favour. It is of some consecjuence to him, that he should appear to have a regard for her. For my part, I take no other concern than that which you know of, and which indeed I am greatly anxious about You invite me to return to my old habits of life. It has long been my fate to weep over the calamities of my country But n)y grief was the less excessive, because I still found a satisfaction in my own family. At present, I can neither re- lish the modes nor the pursuits of the world, nor do I think I ought to be much concerned in what light otliers take thib matter. If my conscience acquits me, let all the w^orld talk as it will. I have no reason to repent of those letters of consolation, which I addressed to myself. They have done me this service, that my mourning, though not my grief, is abated ; for my grief is what I can- not diminish, nor would I, if I cou ld\ You are right in your conjecture of my inten- tions with regard to Triarius^; you are, how- ever, to take no steps but with the consent of his parents. I love the memory of the deceased ; I am the guardian of his children, and I have an afFec- tion for the whole family. With regard to that affair of Castricius, if he is willing to take money for the slaves, and to be paid according to the present public terms of payment^, nothing can be more equitable. ^ Ori'g. MoBTorem minui; dolorem nee potui, 7iec, sipossern, veil em. 2 He is one of the speakers in our author's treatise upon the ends of things good and evil. ^ Orig. Si Castricius pro mancipiis pecuniam accipe re volet, eamque ei solvi ut ?iunc solvitur. This affair seems to have con- cerned Quintus Cicero, whose unworthy behaviour our author appears no longer to have resented. Quintus Cicero owed this Castricius some money, and he made over some slaves to him as a security. When the civil war was over, Quintus proposed to Castricius to redeem the slaves, in the terms of a law made by Caesar, for the more easy payment of debts. For that great man, seeing the prodigious disorder into which the civil wars had thrown all matters of property at Rome, ordered a commis- sion E £ f •I w 52 CICERO'S EPISTLES equitable. But, if the bargain has been go made, as that the slaves themselves may be taken away, I think, (since you will have me to write you my mind on that liead) the other terms will not be fair. For I am unwilling that my brother Quintus should any way involve himself, and if I mistake not, you are of the same sentiments. I should think that Publius will go to Africa by sea, if (as you write me, on the authority of Aledius) he is to wait for the Equinox. Now, he told me, that he was to go by Sicily. I beg you will let me know, whether he continues in that resolution, and when he is to set out ? I likewise entreat, that you will, at your leisure, visit my grandson sion to be made out, to certain persons for valuing effects, which, according to the price they bore before the civil war, the creditors were obliged to take in payment. Our author In many parts of his Epistles, hints at this law, which was called the Lex Julia. But the lav/ contained another clause, to which this passage solely relates. For we learn from Suetonius, that it cancelled all interest that was paid for money, during the continuance of the civil wars. That which had been paid, was deducted as a payment Ifrom the principal sum, and if none had been paid, none was to be accepted. Popma, there- fore, and the other commentators, have absurdly applied the estimatory part of that law to this passage. The question with our author was, that Quintus Cicero should pay ready money for the slaves, with the deduction of the interest that had been paid. But at the same time, he was of opinion, that if the terms of the bargain were optional to Castricius, whether he should take the money or the slaves, it was putting a hard- ship upon Castricius to force him to take the money in the terras of the Julian law. TO ATTICUS. 53 grandson Lentulus\ and let him have what slaves you think proper. My compliuients to your wife and daughter. EPISTLE XXIX. x ou tell me you are to see Silius to-day. You will therefore, write to me to-morrow, or rather, in some leisure hour after you come to any agreement with him. I wish not to decline a visit from Brutus, though at the same time, I am far from expecting from him any alleviation of my anguish ; but I have my reasons for not going to Rome at this time. Should these con- tinue, as at present they are likely to do, I must find some expedient to excuse Brutus. I beg of you to be explicit about the gardens. You know the principal object I have for procuring them, and indeed, I have need of them myself. My first view in having it is, what you know of, and the next is, I have occasion for it myself. For, I neither can live in a hurry, nor can I be at such a distance from my friends. I can find no place so well suited for this purpose as that seat is, and I am extremely sensible what your design was in the management of that aft'air, and the rather, because I think you are of my opinion, that ' This was the sirname of the Cornelian family, and Dola- bella was the second sirname of one of the branclu;s of the same family. n 54 CICERO S EPISTLES that I stand well with Oppius and Balbus. You will let them know how earnestly, and for what reason, I desired to have the estate, but my whole success depends upon my receiving payment from Faberius \ Put it to them, whether they will answer for my being paid ; whether there will be any loss arising in paying down the money immediately, and how much that may amount to, for I despair of receiving the whole sum, in short, you are to learn, whether they are inclinable to serve me in what I proposed. If they are, it will be a great assistance to me ; if not, we must endeavour to be assisted from other quar- ters. You are to look upon this purchase, as the spot in which I wish to spend the remainder of my life with dignity, and to die with composure. ' I have 1 We are told by Appian, that this gentleman was a kind of secretary to Cresar. Some comentators are of opinion, that he owed money to our author, and that he gave him a draft upon Oppius and Balbus, w ho owed money to him. But I do not^ see any great occasion to suppose all this. Caesar himself seems to have been originally our author's debtor, and to have criven Faberius, who was then in Spain with Caesar, a grant of some forfeited estates, upon the condition that he should out of them defray the debt due to Cicero. Oppius and Balbus, therefore, may be supposed to have been agents for Faberius, in selling his estates, and settling his other affairs, and this conjecture agrees very well with all that is said here. 2 Sencctutis occupaiio. Funeris ornamentum. This alludes to a saying of Cato the censor, xaXX/«i» t^ynfxiA.a, t>j» <7roX/r« no man can be a judge of another man's domestic suf- ferings or concerns 5 and therefore, it would be rash to con- clude"*, that Cicero divorced this lady, merely through a peevish- ness contracted from the bad state of his aftairs, and the reflec- tion upon his own misconduct, with which she was, perhaps, too ready to upbraid him j for there is some reason to believe, that she by no means approved of the part he had acted. But at the same time, it is very extraordinary, that we find nothing in his Epistles to Atticus, .(with whom he says, he could c°onverse more freely than he could with his own heart,) that can give us a disadvantageous idea of this lady. He men- tions indeed, somewhat about a remittance she had made. him, which fell a few pounds short of what it ought to have been, and that some rascally domestics about him, endeavoured to give him a disadvantageous idea of her conduct, which he could not believe to be true. Be that as it will, it is certain this lady was divorced at a time of life, that leaves us little room to suspect her of too much gallantry, which our author no where seems to hint at ; that she was afterwards married to two or three of the greatest and tlie noblest men of Rom.e, with whom she lived, as far as we can learn, without reproach, and that she died in the 103d year of her age, the wife of Vi- bius Rufus, who was consul in the reign of Tiberius, and who boasted, that he was possessed of two things which .had be- longed to two of the greatest men who ever lived, the wife of Cicero, and the chair in which Caesar was killed. Soon TO ATTICUS. 59 me in many and pathetic terms, that I would give her leave and that I would send her an answer. You may be sensible, how much trouble this affair gives me. My answer to her was, that my affliction was more intense than it was at the time when I told her, I wanted to be alone, and therefore, I desired she might for- bear her visit at this time. I was of opinion, that unless I sent her an answer, she certainly would come along with her mother ; I think, she will not so soon, for it is plain^ that those letters were not dictated by herself Now I want to avoid the attempt, which I am sure they will make, to pay me a visit, and there is no other way of avoiding them, but by giving them a direct refusal ; Soon after this divorce, our author married Publilia, a ward of his own, a woman of birth and quality, rich, young, and beautiful. Our author, in other parts of his works, apolo- gizes for the inequality of the match, through the necessity he was under to repair his private affairs, which had gone to -ruin through the fault of those, with whom he had entrusted them, but without fixing any particular or direct charge upon Tercntia. It is remarkable, that he seems to have married this lady while he suffered all the bitterness of aflfliction for his daughter, or but a very little before her death; and from the <:ourse of life he afterwards used, we cannot suppose, that she enjoyed a great deal of his company. I think it is pretty plain, that both his marriage, and the death of his daughter, happened between the time of his writing the eleventh and ihe twelfth letter of this book, and in this letter we perceive him ■.•+a ! 60 CICERO'S EPfSTLES h 4' ?l i: refusal ; but necessity compels me to comply'. I beg you will learn to what precise day I can re- main herCy before they attempt to surprise me with this visit Speak to them with delicacy, and to use your own words, with caution. I beg you will propose to my son, if you think it reasonable, that the expences of his journey to Athens, and his continuance there, should not ex- ceed the rents of my Argiletan and Aventine houses, which would have satisfied him, had he remained at Rome, and hired a house as he was once thinking of doing ; and if you think proper to make him this proposal, I beg that you will order every thing so, that we may supply him with whatever is necessary from those rents, and I will answer for it ; they will maintain him in as handsome a manner as Bibulus, or Acidenus, orMessala*, who, I hear, are to be at Athens^ can live in. I therefore beg you in the first place, to look out who are to rent those houses, and how much they will pay ; and in the next place, that some person be appointed as his agent him so much out of humour witli her and her friends, that he ran away from his own house to avoid both her and them. * Monsieur Mongault and I differ in our translation of this passage. I point it as follows, differently from all editions. Nunc, non puto; apparehat enim illas literas non esse ipsius. Illud autem, ('quod fore video) ipsum volo vitarc, neiUce ad ' me venlant -J ^ est una intatio, ut ego nollem! sednecesse est, ^ These were three young Roman noblemen of great distinc- tion. r. ( 1 TO ATTICUS. 61 agent to supply him with money for this journey, and his other expences. He can have no occa- sion for horses^ at Athens. As to what horses he may want upon the road, you yourself observe, tliat I have at home more than can be sufficient for him. EPISTLE XXXIII. X WROTE to you yesterday, that I was'of opinion, you should try what you could do with Damasip- pus, ifSilius should behave in the manner vou think he will, and if Drusus should not comply. He, if I mistake not, has parcelled out his estate upon the banks of the Tiber into a certain number of acres, so that every parcel has a set price which I am ignorant of. You will, ^ therefore, let me know, upon what terms you proceed with him. I am much concerned for the indisposition of our dear Attica ; but my ap- prehensions of any mismanagement with re^^ard to her vanish, when I reflect upon the worth of her tutor, the sagacity of her physician, and that universal regularity and observance of every kind that prevail in every department of your fam- ily. You will, therefore, take care of her, for I can write no more. £PISTLE Orig. Jumento, 6^ CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XXXIV. Considering my misfortunes, I can enjoy myself very well here, even without Sica, for Tyro is better. But, as your letter desired me not to be surprised by a visit from my wife and her friends ( by which I perceive, you are igno- rant, on what day they will set out on their jour- ney) I thought proper to come to this place, and, I perceive, you are of the same mind. To- morrow, therefore, I will come to Sica s seat near Rome, and after that, I think to take your advice of passing some days about Ficulea'. As I am to see you in person, we will discourse to- gether concerning the matters you have mention- ed in your letters to me. I cannot help acknow- ledging, that I am wonderfully charmed with the af- fection,' the assiduity, and the wisdom you shew in managing my concerns, in the measures you pur- sue, Tnd'^in the advices you give me in your let- ters. N you EPISTLE XXXVL OTWiTUSTAXDiNG what you write, I beg will inform me how you proceed with Silius, the 1 It lay in the country of the Sabines. TO ATTICUS. 63 tlie very day on which I am to visit Sica, and chiefly what place he intends to reserve for him- self. You write, that it is towards the extremity of the estate, but 1 beg you will take care, that it is not the very spot which, you know, invited me to think at all of this purchase. I have sent to you the letter I lately received from Hirtius, which is most affectionately written. It did not come into my head before we parted, that the public has a right to appropriate as much money as exceeds the sum allowed by the law *, (I knew not how much that is) to be expended upon a funeral monument. This would not yho was afterwards famous for her intrigue with the sot> 0f the comedian iEsopUs. This Lentulus had the nickname of Spinthet, from the great resemblance between him and a slave of that name. There is a pun here which is not decent to ex- plain. 8 I have elsewhere observed, that our author, as he himself often intimates, was the first who, as it wefe, moulded the Latin language to philosophical terms, which Atticus, who was a professed champion of the Greek tongue, had thought to b« impracticable. It is in this sense that I, as well as Monsieur Mongault, have translated this passage, but I am not sure whe^ ther there is not a farther allusion in the words. The origi- nal is, De lingua Latina securi es animh dices, qui talia con- scrihis; airoy^»(^x rexempla) sunt. The younger Gronovius veiy rightly observes, that the Animus securus here may imply his mind being free from the excessive melancholy, which our author had long entertained for the loss of his daughter, and which was now so far abated, that he could apply himself to write philosophically in Latin. But I must observe farther, that this passage is applicable to the sneer he had just before past upon Spinther, whose name in Latin was Awoy^a^or, that is, trans- cribed from the Greek, by which our author brings forth this piece of low wit, without having recourse to a Greek word, and which he supposes Atticus would be jealous of; neither Mou- pieur Mongault, nor any of the commentators seems to have at- tended to this. 92 CICERO'S EPISTLES, &c. do, is to copy the sentiments of others. There is no great difficulty in that All I have to do, is to furnish words, and of them I have plenty. EPISTLE LIIL X WRITE to you, even though I have nothing to say, because I have a pleasure in supposing my- self to be conversing with you. To-day I look for your morning letters, and perhaps I shall have a packet in the afternoon, unless you are prevented by your dispatches from Epirus, which I do not choose to interfere with. I have sent you a letter to Marcianus, and another to Mon- tanus. Unless you have already delivered them, I beg that you would make them up in one packet CICERO'S CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK XIIL EPISTLE L Nothing could be more weighty, and at the same time more engaging, than your letter to my son ^ was. You said neither more nor less than what I most earnestly desired you should say. You have likewise written, in a very proper strain, to the two Tullii. Either your letters must have a due effect, or I must take another course. As to the money, I see that you are exerting your- self, or rather you have exerted yourself most indefatigably ; should you succeed, I shall look upon the gardens as your present There is no kind ^ He had been guilty of some little irregularities at Athens. 94 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 95 kind of purchase I would prefer to this, espcci-* ally consij^ering the use to which it is to be appro- priated ; neither am I now so much in a hurry as 1 was before, because you promise, or rather you undertake, that the building shall be completed before the end of summer. Let me tell you like- wise, that I know of no place, where I could more comfortably pass my old age, or wear away my sorrows. These conBideration* make me so pas- sionately fond of this purpose, that I am some- times upon the point of pressing you ; but then I check myself as having no manner of doubt, that in a matter in which you know me to be very ear- nest, you are more earnest than I am myself. Therefore be persuaded, that this is the only con- sideration that keeps me from teazing you. I am impatient to know what the sentiments of these gentlemen were with regard to my letter to Ca?sar. Nicias has a due respect for you, and it gives him vast pleasure to know that you re- member him. For wy own part, 1 have a great aifection for our friend Peduceus. I feel for him all the affection I had for his father * ; I love him equally on his own account, and there* fore he is doubly dear to me : and you most of all, because it is owing to your recommendatioa that we live on these friendly terms. After you have ^ Orig. Nam ecquanti patrem feci, totum in hunc: ipsum par t€ (C(^ne amo, atque iiium atrr^vi. looked upon the gardens, and told me your sen- timents of them in writing, you will then furnish me with some subject of a letter to you. I will write, however, at all events, for I never am with- out some subject or other. EPISTLE IL JL OUR speed in communicating to me is far more agreeable than the subject communicated. Was there ever a greater insult offered to a man ? But I am now become insensible, having lost all the feelings of human nature \ This day I looked for your letter, not that I expect any fresh intel- ligence from them. — For what more can be said ? —Well, let that pass— You will order these let- ters to be delivered to Oppius and Balbus, and talk, when you have an opportunity, to Piso, about the gold. Should Faberius give a draft, you will take care that it be for tlie whole sum he owes me. You will learn from Eros how much it is. Ariarathes", the son of Ariobarzanes, is at 1 We ate perhaps at no great loss in not linowing the parti- oular hardship which Cicero alludes to here^ whether it rela- ted to Terentia, or which I think, more probably, to tlie iiita-^ mous reports which had been raised against him of his too great intimacy with TuUia. * His father Ariobarzanes was elected king of Cappadocia, Upon the failure of the old line of the Cappadocian royal fa- mil r. I il 96 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 97 at Rome. It is my opinion that he intends to purchase some kingdom or other from Caesar ; for, in his present situation, he has not one foot of ground to call his own. Our friend Sextius, who is master of the ceremonies in ordinary \ has wholly engrossed him. To this I have no objec- tion. But as I was greatly obliged to his brothers, and very intimate with them, I have sent him a letter of invitation to the use of my house. When I sent off Alexander express for this purpose, I charged him with this letter. To-morrow, it seems, is appointed for the sale of Peduceus. You will then be more at liberty to set out for this place, unless you should be detained by settling matters with Faberius. But take your own time. Our acquaintance, Dionysius, com- plains bitterly, and not without justice of his long absence from his pupils". He has written very fully mily. As his elder brotlier had no children, Ariarathes was the presunoptive heir of that crown, which gave Caesar some jea- lousy of him, and therefore he had no territories assigned him in the general settlement, which Caesar was now making of the empire. He afterwards succeeded his brother, who was put to death by Cassius, but Antony stript him of his crown and gave it to Archelaus. 1 Orig. Nostcr Parochus puUicus. The business of the Pa- rochi was to furnish foreign princes and ambassadors with the money and provisions allotted them by the public. They like- wise furnished the masters and governors of provinces on the road with their perquisites of salt, wood, hay, and the like. * Meaning himself and Atticus, for he cannot mean his son, and his nephew, to whom Dionysius had formerly been tutor. fully to me, and I suppose, to you, likewise. He is in a fair way to be much longer absent from them, which I am sorry for, because I am uneasy for the man's company. EPISTLE III. 1 AM so impatient for a letter from you, that I wonder none has yet come, though I write this in the morning. With regard to the assign- ments, I am so well assured of the credit of the parties, that nothing alarms me, but your seeming apprehension. I own 1 think it no good sign when you leave the matter to me, for had I been my own agent in this affair, I should not have taken one step, but by your advice. Meanwhile, I am persuaded that your doubt arises from your own usual scrupulous exactness in business, rather than from any real doubts you have as to the parties \ For you do not approve of my transaction with Coelius", and you are against my ^ Gronovius is in some doubt whether the scruple mentioned here, does not relate to that which Atticus supposed the heirs of Scapula would have, with regard to the assignments which Cicero was to give for payment. * The reader may remember, that our author proposed io convert his effects into ready money, which he was to receive from his banker, and that he was income doubt as to the good- ness of the gold in which the payment was to be made. Vol. III. H 98 CICERO'S EPISTLES Bay selling off any more off my effects. I think you are in the right as to both. There is, there- fore, a necessity for my making use of this assign- ment, or otherwise, you must, once in your life, and in this very bargain, become a surety \ But now the whole rests upon myself". The day when I am to be paid, indeed, is at some distance, but let there be no obstacle in that, lor if I can but purchase the gardens, 1 believe the auctioneer will give me as long a time for paying them. This indulgence the heirs Avill certainly grant me. You must speak to Crispus and MusloUa, and I want to know what shares they have in this suc- cession. iEgypta, the freedman of Brutus, has brought ^ 1 have been at some pains, and I hope I have succeeded in translating this difficult Epistle. I have, in the course 6f these notes, observed, more than once, that notwithstanding the ce- lebrated friendship between our author and Atticus, the latter dealt with the former with great exactness, not to say rigour, in all money matters j and the author of his Life gives us, in his commendation, a circumstance which really turns to his re- proach ; that he laid it down as a rule to be bail for no man. Cicero was no stranger to this, and what he writes here is in a vein of pleasantry, because he will not seem to suppose that any such resolution could be consistent with the friendship between them. The reason therefore, why Atticus was in seme doubts about the validity of the assignments was, lest Cicero might have called upon him to bave answered for them to the sellers, ^'Or tbcir agents . 2 yi%. Becaiise the assignments were so good, tot he did not doubt but that the sellers wewld lake hb own personal se- curity for making them good. TO ATTICUS, 99 brought me a letter from his master with the news of his arrival. I have sent the letter to you, because it is written with a complaisance unusual to him. EPISTLE IV. jL have, through your labour, the list of the ten deputies \ which indeed has put me upon exam- ining. For the younger Tuditanus was not so much as quasstor, till the year after Mummius had been consul, so it must be the elder, who is mentioned in the list of deputies. You are frequently teazing me to know, whether I am sa- tisfied with that assignment, and I have as often told you that I am. If you can finish any thing with Piso do it. As to Avius, I make no doubt of his acting as he ought. I wish you could be here before Brutus; if you cannot, let us at least meet altogether at Tusculanum. It is of great importance for me to see you. If you will order one of your slaves to make inquiry, you may learn on what day Brutus is to be here. EPISTLE ^ After Mummius had conquered Achaia, the senate, as Visual, sent ten deputies, to regulate the civil gqyernnient of |lie conquered countries, ai\d our author intetiled to have iiiad«j themipterlocutors in a political treatise he was abput to compose. ,The original here is dark, bit I have supplied it from other parts of our author s writings. H S 100 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 101 EPISTLE V. 1 TOOK it that Spurius Mummius was one of the ten deputies, but, now I think of it, he ser- ved probably as lieutenant to his brother, for it is certain that he was then at Corinth. I have sent you my Torquatus\ I beg you will talk, as you propose, with Silius, and urge him. He refused to defer the payment so long as May, but he agreed to every thing else*. But I beg you would transact this with the prudence which you usually discover in other things. After you have spoken to Crispus and Mustella, let me know what you have concluded with them. Now that you have promised me to be here when Bru- tus shall arrive, I am quite satisfied ; and the more 1 Viz. The first book of his conferences dejinilus, in which Torquatus explains, and defends the Epicurean system. 2 Manutius is of opinion, that this passage ought to beread^ Illam diem negahat esse mense mcdo, is tarn non negalat; and Monsieur Mongault lets the whole pass without any note. Ma- nutius thinks farther, that the matter, alluded to here, was, that Silius was willing to delay the payment for his gardens, till tlie ' month of May, but that the heirs of Scapula refused to lie so long out of tlieir money for their payment. But if this could be the sense, I cannot see with what propriety Silius could be the nominative to negahat. more so, as I suppose you will spend the inter- mediate time in finishing the affair which I have much at heart in EPISTLE VI. You have done quite right as to the aqueduct. Take care that the columns^ do notexceed the limits of the sumptuary law! Though I think I have heard from Camillus that the law in this respect is altered. W.hat answer more proper can we re- turn to Piso, than that the younger Cato is here all alone ? 1 Orig. Columnariumy vide, ne nullum deleamus. This al- ludes to part of the sumptuary law enacted by Caesar. Some of the commentators imagine, that the Columnarium, here men- tioned in the original, was a tax upon columns, as Ostiarium, was upon doors, which Caesar exacted of the citizens of Rome, upon buildings already raised. But this is not very prooable, because, in his third book, of the civil wars, we hnd him bla- ming Scipio for exacting that very tax. It is more probable, that his sumptuary law laid a tax upon all new columns em- ployed in building. There is however an obscurity in the ori- ginal which leaves it uncertain, whether our author does n< ' mean to desire Atticus to take care that he should not be loaded with that tax} in which case, for nullum, we must read /// .'^rt. The columns, here spoken of, were perhaps those uhich were to be employed in building the temple, in memory ofhr'; daughter. ^ ,t 102 CICEflOS £PISTLES TO ATTICyS. 103 alone ^? and this answer will serve not only the coheirs of ilirennius, but, as you know, (for you was concerned in the same affair with itie) for the younger Lucullus. For it is naaterial to know, that his guardian took up that money in Achaia. But Piso acts like a man of honour, for, he says, he will do nothing that can disoblige us. Therefore, as you write to me, we will, when we meet, consult how to settle this matter. You have done well in having a meeting of the other coheirs. As to your wanting to see my letter to Brutus, I have no copy of it. Tyro says, that you cer- tainly have one, and I remember that, at the tinie 1 sent you his uncivil letter, I sent you a copy of my answer. You will take care that I am not troubled with any judicial matters. I was utter- ly ignorant of that Tuditanus, the great grandfa- ther of Hortensius, and I took him to have been tis son, who was the deputy, which was impossi- ble. I am quite certain that Mummius was at Corinth, for the late Spurius often read over to me his letters full of quaint verses, which he wrote from Corinth to his friends. But I make no doubt of his having been lieutenant to his bro- ther * Orig. SoUluftin'em Calofiis, The reader is to understand that our author was guardian to yoting Lucallus and probably to the younger Cato likewise, whose estate was in arrears to Pisoj and the coheirs of Hirennius, ther, and not one of the ten deputies. I have likewise learned, that our ancestors never nao^ed any relations of a general amongst the ten depu- ties, who were to controul him, though later tmies have been so ignorant, or rather so neglectful, of this most salutary maxim, as to send Mar- cus Lucullus, and Lucius Murena, and other of his nearest relations, to Lucius Lucullus as his deputies. It is likewise natural to suppose, that his brother would prefer him before any other, to be his lieutenant. What work do I cut out for you ! who thus both read for me, and nego- tiate for me, and that too with more attention to my concerns than you give to your own. EPISTLE VII. Sestius and also Theopompus ' were with me the day before. The former tells me, that he re- ceived a letter from Caesar, informing him, that he was determined to remain at Rome ', and that he gives the very reason, mentioned in my letter, lest, in his absence, his laws should be neglected, as his sumptuary law has been. This is very pro- bable, and is no more than what occurred to myselt 1 HewasanativeofCuidos, and a favourite with Caesar. £ This seems to contradict a report which has obtained in his- tory, as if Caesar intended, upon his being peaceable possessor of the empire, to underUke an expedition in person against the Parthians. n 104 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 105 myself before. But those gentlemen must be hu- moured, unless I should think proper to resume what I at first proposed. It is certain then that Lentulus has divorced Metella; but you know all these things better than I do ; \vnte me therefore somewhat in answer. It matters not what, pro- vided you do write. For, at present, nothing oc- curs to me that you can write, unless you think proper to write somewhat concerning Mustella or Silius. Brutus came to Tiisculanum yesterday about five in the evening. To-day therefore he will visit me, and I wish that you were present when he does. For I ordered him to be to'd, that you waited as long as you could for his arrival ; that you would return if you heard of it, and that I would instantly inform you, as I do by this letter, EPISTLE VIII. I REALLY have nothing to write to you, for you had no sooner left me than you sent me back a letter of three pages ^ in answer to mine. I hope you will take care to convey this packet to Vestorius, and employ some one or other to in- quire ^ Orig. Triplices remiseras. In matters of small moment, the ancients used to send their tablets, or pocket-books, to one another with their business written in them, and an answer was returned on the same tablets. The business mentioned here took up, it seems^ three pages of those tablets. quire whether Quintus Faberius has any estate that is to be sold in the territory of Pompeii, or in that of Nola. I beg you would send me Cse- lius's annals abridged by Brutus \ and get for me, from Philoxemus, the treatise of Panaetius' con- cerning providence. I hope to see you on th« 13th, with your family. EPISTLE IX. You were but just gone yesterday when Treba- tius and, soon after, Curtius arrived here. The latter came only to pay me his compliments, but he stayed here upon my invitation, and I have Trebatius with me likewise. Dolabella arrived this morning. We conversed together for a long time ; and indeed nothing could be more open, nothing more affectionate, than what he said to me. Meanwhile we fell upon the subject of my nephew, of whom he told me many things that are not to be expressed, and ought not to be rela- ted. One circumstance, however, was of such a nature, that, unless the whole army knew it, I should not venture to dictate it to Tiro, nay, not to ^ They were composed by Lucius Coelius Antipater. Bru- tus was a great epitomistr ot works of that kind. * He was a stoic philosopher, and wrote in defence of an immediate providence. •*»,»^ti^. m^ .« 4» »i|Wr «««•.« 104 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 105 myself before. But those gentlemen must be hu^ moured, unless I should think proper to resume what I at first proposed. It is certain then that Lentulus has divorced Metella; butyou know all these things better than I do ; write me therefore somewhat in answer. It matters not what, pro- vided you do write. For, at present, nothing oc- curs to me that you can w rite, unless you think proper to write somewliat concerning MnstcUa or Silius. Brutus came to Tasculanum yesterday about five in the evening. To-day therefore he will visit me, and 1 wish that you were present when he does. For I ordered him to be to'd, tiiat you waited as long as you could for his arrival ; that you would return if you heard of it, and that I would instantly inform you, as I do by this letter, EPISTLE VIII. jL really have nothing to write to you, for you had no sooner left me than you sent me back a letter of three pages ^ in answer to mine. I hope you will take care to convey this packet to Vestorius, and employ some one or other to in- quire * Orig. TripJices remiseras. In matters of small moment, the ancients used to send their tablets, or pocket-books, to one another with their business written in them, and an answer was returned on the same tablets. The business mentioned here took up, it seems, three pages of those tablets. ) I quire whether Quintus Faberius has any estate that is to be sold in the territory of Pompeii, or in that of Nola. I beg you would send me Cae- lius's annals abridged by Brutus \ and get for me, from Philoxemus, the treatise of Pangetius' con- cerning providence. I hope to see you on th« 13th, with your family. EPISTLE IX. jL ou were but just gone yesterday when Treba- tius and, soon after, Curtius arrived here. The latter came only to pay me his compliments, but he stayed here upon my invitation, and I have Trebatius with me likewise. Dolabella arrived this morning. We conversed together for a long time ; and indeed nothing could be more open, nothing more affectionate, than what he said to me. Meanwhile we fell upon the subject of my nephew, of whom he told me many things that are not to be expressed, and ought not to be rela- ted. One circumstance, however, was of such a nature, that, unless the wdiole army knew it, I ijhould not venture to dictate it to Tiro, nay, not to ^ They were composed by Lucius Coelius Antipater. Bru- tus was a great epilomi^tr o\ works of that kind. 2 He was a stoic philosopher^ and wrote in defence of an immediate providence. 106 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 107 to write it with my own hand. But I shall find time enough for this. While Dolabella was with n>€, Torquatus arrived very seasonably, and Dolabella very handsomely told him in what terms I had expressed myself concerning him, for I luckily had talked with him in the most earnest manner, which seemed to Torquatus sen- sible pleasure. I expect to hear from you if you know any thing of Brutus. Nicias thinks the marriage is finished, but he says that his divorce, from his first wife, is generally disapproved. I therefore, as well as you, am earnest, that the affair should be finished. For if he has given any offence, this step will remedy it \ I must go to Arpinum ; for I must settle the affairs of that little farm, and I am afraid I shall not be at liberty to leave Rome after Csesar's arrival, of which Dolabella's opi- nion is conformable to the conjecture you had formed from Messala s letter. Wlien I shall ar- rive at Arpinum, and see what business I have there, I will specify to you the precise day of my return. EPISTLE 1 We see, by this passage, that Plutarch was mistaken in saying, that Brutus was married to Porcia in the lifetime of her father Cato. Our author here means, that Brutus, by mar- rying the excellent daughter of the great Cato, would be a suffi- cient vindication for his divorcing Clodia, who had given him no cause of disgust. \ \l EPISTLE X. 1 AM not at all surprised at your being sensibly stffected by the death of Marcellus, and at your being apprehensive in many other respects. For how can we be on our guard against an accident, whic|i never had any precedent, and which seem- ed to be inconsistent with nature to permit \ We therefore have every thing to fear. But how can you, who are so exact in these matters, be so much mistaken as to say, that 1 am the only sur- viving consular^? Make you then no account of Servius ? But this is of no kind of importance, especially with me, who think that those who are dead are as happy as w^e are. For what are we, or what can we do? Of what importance are we at home or abroad ? Had I not taken it in my head to amuse myself with writing such trifles as these, I should not have known how to have borne my own existence, I am 1 We have a curious account of the death of this great man, in a letter from Sulpicius to our author. After Caesar, at the universal request of the senate, had pardoned him, he was stab- bed to death in his return home by this Magius, who was his intimate friend and client. * There were many consulars besides our author, and Ser- vius alive at this time, but they behaved so, as they had notliing to fear from Caesar. i08 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 109 I am of the same opinion with you concerning Dolabella. A treatise of a popular or a poHtical nature would suit him best. In short, something must be done for him, for he is very anxious about it. You will take care to acquaint me, if jou know any thing of Brutus. The sooner, if he is determined upon it, that he finishes his marriage, the better; for he will thereby put an end to, or at least, moderate the publij talk about him. Some people have talked of him, even to myself But Brutus knows best what measures to take, especially if he consults with you. I think of setting out on the ^22nd, for I have no business either here or there, or indeed any where. Yet I had some little matters to settle there. This day I look for Spinther, from what Brutus wrote to me. In the same le.ter, he clears Cas- sar from having any hand in the death of young Marcellus, nor indeed, had he been killed by treachery in the dark, and by an unknown hand, could any suspicion have been fixed on him. But now, that Magius is known to be the assassin, does not his frenzy explain the whole affair ? I am entirely ignorant what his motive could be ; you will therefore, let me know, though I have no grounds for doubt excepting the cause of his vengeance. At Sunium Marcellus engaged for a friend to pay Magius a sum of money. His be- ing unable to make good the engagement was probably probably the cause of Magius's fury. I suppose he asked Marcellus for the money, and that Mar- cellus replied, as was usual with him, in harsh terms. EPISTLE XL 1 HERE is no judging of things at a distance^ — I believed I could have easily lived without you, but I find it quite the reverse now that we are separated. But I was obliged to go to Arpinum, both that I might settle the concerns of my small estate there, and lest 1 should make our friend Brutus tired of his waiting upon me ; for we can hereafter enjoy one another's company with great- er pleasure at Tusculanum. But at this time, while he wanted every day to see me, and I could not possibly go to him, he was deprived of all the pleasure of his seat at Tusculanum. Do you, therefore, inform me by a letter, whether Servilia is come to Rome, whether Brutus has made any ^ advances, or whether he proposes any thing, and when he is to meet the great man ; in short, let me know every thing that may be proper for me to know 1 Orig. ov racvrov. This is part of a verse of Euripides, and the meaning is, that things do not exhibit the same appearan- ces, when near, as they do when viewed at a distance. In the common editions, these words conclude the preceding, but as Causabo© has pointed out, they ought to begiii this leUer.— E, no CICERO'S EPISTLES Jyiow. I beg you will, if possible, talk with Piso, You are sensible, it is now high time, but let that be as your conveniency can admit of. EPISTLE XII. Your letters concerning our darling Atti(*a gave me great concern, but they gave me comfort at the same time. For, I thought I had sufficient grounds for moderating my affliction, as you yourself take comfort in the same letter. You have disposed of my orations for Ligarius to great advantage ; you shall be my publisher, for what- ever I shall write hereafter. As to what you write concerning Varro, you know, that till late- ly, I composed nothing but orations, or some such serious works, into which I could not intro- duce Varro with any propriety. Afterwards, when I undertook a work of more general erudi- tion, Varro acquainted me, that he intended to address to me a work of great extent and impor- tance. Two years passed over, without his ad- vancing one inch, though he is a very rapid wri- :ler. ^ Now, all this while, I was making prepara- tions for returning his compliment in the same coin * Jllc KaAXx-Tr/Sijy, he is swift-footed, or this might be the name of a man remarkable for his swiftness— A^ i^^ a Callipu TO ATTICUS. HI coin \ and with interest, *' if I could," for Hesiod in such cases, recommends the clause "If you can." At present, I have addressed to Brutus, as you desired me to do, my treatise *' concerning the ends of things good and evil," of which I own I am fond ; and you signified to me, that such an address would not displease him. I will, there- fore, introduce Varro into my academical dis- courses, where the speakers are men of eminence indeed, but by no means proper to handle philo- sophical distinctions and niceties. Besides, those discourses proceed upon the principles of Antio- chus^ which he greatly approves of. I will ia •other places introduce Catulus and LucuUus, pro- vided, however, that you approve of my plan ; and I expect you will write to me concerning it I have received a letter from Vestorius, con- cerning the sale of the effects of Brinnius. He says, there was not the least opposition in fixing it at my house (for they supposed I should be at Rome or Tusculanum) on the 24th of June. You will, therefore, desire your friend and my coheir S. Vettius, or my friend Ladeo, to put off the ^ale for a short time, for I shall be at Tusculanum aboiit 1 Varro afterwards addressed his book upon tlie Latin tongue itoour author. 2 Orig. Avrioxtix. Antiochia. He was a disciple ofCaraea- des. .Both Cicero and Atticus had studied under him at Athens^ iuidXucullus had afterwards brought him to Kome. 112 CICEROS EPISTLES about the 7th of July. Eros is at Rome with Piso, Let us bestow all our thoughts upon the gardens of Scapula; the day of sale approaches. EPISTLE XIIL X HE letter you wrote me concerning Vairo, had the effect of making me transfer my academical treatise from those men of great quality to our companion, and instead of two books, I have made four. Though many things are supprest in them, yet they are much larger than the others A\ere ; you will write me, however, what his real sentiments are. I feel very desirous to know who the person is, you think he is jealous of ; whether he is not Brutus ? The knowledge of that would finally determine me; but I want to be sure of the fact. As to the books themselves (unless an author's fondness for his own works deceive me), I have finished them in such a manner, that even Greece itself can produce nothing of that kind. I hope, you will patiently put up with the expence, of having my academics transcribed in the form I sent them to you. In their present form they arc a umch more perspicuous, succinct and agreeable. But, I am now at a loss what to do; I want to gratify DolabcUa, who passionately desires I should^address somewhat to him. I can find no- thing TO ATTICUS. 113 thing ; I am afraid people talk already ; if I should find any thing that would be suitable, how could I escape censure ' ? I must, therefore, drop that design, or justify it by some expedient. But why should such trifles employ me? I beg you will let me know, how my darling Attica does : I am greatly concerned about her. But after often examining your letters, I am more at ease. \ et I look for fresh accounts. EPISTLE XIV. 1 HE freedman of Brinnius, and one of his co- heirs with me, has written to me, that he and Sabi- nus Albius the third coheir, would, if it was agree- able to me, wait upon me. To this I absolutely object. For the legacy is not worth the while. And yet, they might easily advertise the day of sale (for it is to be on the 1 1th) if they came to me at Tusculanum on the morning of the 6th. If they want, however, to protract the time, they may do it two or three days as they think pro- per, ^ Orig. f/.t^^iv accusation. It was indeed, very extraordina- ry, that our author should live in such intimacy with Dolabella^ who had but just repudiated his beloved daughter. But Cice- ro might likewise be afraid, lest he should be censured, as if his courtship ofDolabella was in order to keep himself with Caesar. Vol. III. I 114 CICERO'S EPISTLES per, for such a delay will be of no consequence. You will then stop those persons, if they are not set out before this comes to your hand. Let me know, if you hear any thing of Brutus, or of Caesar, or any other news. I again beg of you to take it into your consideration, whether it may be proper to send my work to Varro. And in- deed, this matter somewhat concerns yourself. For be it known unto you, that I have made you and him two speakers in the conference. I, therefore, think it is high time for us to come to a resolution. For though the names are in- serted, yet still they may be erased, and others put in. EPISTLE XV. Xxow, I pray you, does our darling Attica do, for I have heard nothing from you for these three days ? How should I ? Since we had no- body to convey our letters, and perhaps, you had no more to communicate, than I had. I am this day, when I give this letter to Valerius, in expectation of some of my people. Should any one come with letters from you, I shall then have subject matter for writing. TO ATTICUS. 115 II EPISTLE XVL 5)ucH heavy and such incessant rains have fallen here, that I have not as yet been able to stir with- out doors, though all I now court are rivers and retirement for the abatement of grief. I havo inserted Varro as a speaker through the whole of my academical treatise. At first, I had made Catulus, LucuUus, and Hortensius, the interlo- cutors ; reflecting afterwards, that there was some impropiety in this, because the public knew, that thouglr those persons were not illiterate yet, that they were not conversant in those matters, as soon as I came to my country-seat, I put their parts into the mouths of Cato and Brutus. This produced your letter concerning Varro, and I thought no body more proper than he was for defending the doctrine of Antiochus. Still, I hope you will write to me in the first place, whe- ther it may be proper for me to address any thing to him ; and, in the next place, if it is, whether I should address this work ? What is Servilia ? Is she arrived ? How does Brutus go on? Is the day fixed yet ? What do you hear of Ceesar ? I remain here, as I told ypu, till the 7th. En- deavour to come to some terms with Piso. EPISTLE 12 XPISTLB 116 CICERO'S EPISTLES \ TO ATTICUS. 117 EPISTLE XVII. About the 27th, I expect to hear somewhat from Rome, not that I ordered any of my people to come to me. 1, therefore, expect to learn by yours, what I have so often written about to you> what Brutus designs to do ? whether he has con- cluded upon any thing? and whether any news is come from Coesar ? But how can those mat- ters concern me ? I want to know how your sweet daughter does. Though your letters bid me hope for the best, yet they are of too old a date. Meanwhile, I expect more fresh intelli- gence. EPISTLE XVill. Y ou see the benefit of our being neighbours. For my part, I am determined to purchase that seat near Rome. While I was at Tusculanum, our correspondence by letters was so frequent, that I imagined myself to be talking with you in person. Now I shall have the same benefit as you advise me. I have completed the treatises which I addressed to Varro. They will appear, I fear, too subtle and refined. I, however, am impa- tient till you write to me, and let me know, in the first first place, how you came to be informed that a man, who, like Varro, has written so much, with- out addressing any thing to me, should desire me to pay him that compliment ? In the next place, who the person is of w^hom he is jealous, whether he be not Brutus? If he is not jealous of him, he can be far less so of Hortensius, or any of the speakers in my treatise concerning government. I would have you to be express with me upon the two following points; whether you are still of opinion, that I ought to send my work to Varro, or do you think I have no occasion to do it ? But we will talk of these matters when we meet. EPISTLE XIX. jSf±Y amanuensis Hilarus was but just gone from hence on the 27th, at which time I gave him a letter for you, when your letter-carrier came with your letters dated the day before, in which I read with the greatest pleasure, that your daughter desired you not to be concerned, and you tell me she is out of danger. The good opinion you had of my oration tor Ligarius has, I perceive, set it off to great advantage. For Balbus and Oppius write to me that they are w^onderfuUy pleased with it, and cannot helo sending it, short as it is, to Caesar. This ih . n. 118 CICERO'S EPISTLES more than what you yourself wrote to me some time before. As to Varro, I pay no regard to the public suspicion, that I court him, as the means of ex- tending my own fame ; (for I had laid it down as a resolution to introduce no living characters as speakers in any dialogue of mine), but because you write me, that Varro is desirous of having such an address, and that he would be very proud of it. I have, therefore, finished the dialogues. I have in four books comprehended the whole academic system. How well it is executed, I shall not pretend to say. But it is impossible for me to finish any thing more highly. I have put into Varro's mouth all the arguments which were so accurately collected by Antiochus against those who maintain that no certainty is attain- able in human knowledge. These 1 have an- swered myself, and you are the third party in our conversation. Had I brought in Gotta and Varro disputing together as you advised me to do in your last letters, I must then have appeared a silent character. Persons venerable for their age or learning,- when introduced as speakers, have often a fine effect : and this artifice has been suc- cessfully practised by Heraclides ' in several of his dialogues: and also by myself, in my six books concerning government. I am likewise proud 1 He was a native ot Pontus, and a disciple of Plato and Aristotle, but none of his works are now remaining. TO ATTICUS. 119 proud of my three books upon the character of an orator, where I have done the same thing, and where the speakers are such as necessarily rendered me silent. Thev are Crassus, Anto- nius, the elder Catulus, Caius Julius the brother of Catulus, Cotta and Sulpicius. I was but a boy when this conference is supposed to have hap- pened, so that, properly, I could have no share in it. But as to my later compositions, they are in the manner of Aristotle, and the speeches of the other speakers are so disposed, that I make the principal figure myself. Thus, in my w^ork concerning the Ends of Things, good and evil, I have assigned the defence of the Epicurean doc- trine to Lucius Torquatus, that of the Stoics to Marcus Cato, and that of the Peripatetics to Marcus Piso. All whom I answer \ This I thought I could do without giving any offence, because all of them are deceased. You know, that I introduced Catulus, Lucul- lus, and Hortensius disputing in this academical treatise ; but that was with no kind of propriety. For they were made to discuss the subtleties which they could not be supposed so much as to have dreamed of. Therefore, as soon as I read your hint concerning Varro, I laid eager hold of it as an unexpected prize. Nothing can be bet- ter * I have, after Monsieur Mongault, inserted these words for the better understanding our author's meaning in the original. 120 CICERO^S EPISTLES ter suited than his partis to that kind of philoso- phy which he has chiefly adopted, and liis argu- ments are urged with such force, thai I do not think, I make myself a greater figire than he does, in the debate. 1 have been at pains to give the doctrines of Antiochus, all the strong air of truth wliich he is master of. Tiiey have all the ejiergy of his reasoning, clothed in the beauty of my laiigua ^e, provided you How it to have any beauty. But I beg you will take some pains to know whetlier it s proper I should address these treatises to Varro? Several things occur- red to me on that head; but of that when we meet. EPISTLE XX. X HAVE received letters of condolence from Cie- sar, dated from Hispalis the last of April. I do not understand the news about enlarging the city; I wish I did. I am glad that my endeavours to oblige Torquatus have been agreeable to him. I will continue to increase them. I can neither add any thing to my oration concerning Tu- hero's ^ wife and his stepdaughter, (for it is al- ready * He was a prosecutor of Llgarius, but was so ashamed of the prosecution upon Ligarius being acquitted, that he wanteci to lay all the fault upon his own wife and stepdaughter. TO ATTICUS. 121 ready published) nor do I much incline to make any apology for Tubero, for he is a very trou- blesome person. You must have had very excel- lent diversion in the scene you mention. Though I enjoy myself with great satisfaction in this place, yet I earnestly desire to see you. I will, therefore, return as I purposed. I suppose you have met \vith my brother, for which reason I should be glad to know what passed between you. I am quite unconcerned with regard to the public report respecting me, notwithstanding the foolish things I formerly wrote to you. For it is below my concern. All that man has to do is, through the whole course of his life^ not to devi- ate in the least from the dictates of a good con- science. Do not you see how philosophical I am grow n ? Do you now think that I have perused these scientific treatises to no purpose ? What I mentioned ^ was of no consequence. There- fore, I would not have you to be uneasy. For now I return to my former purpose. Do you imagine, that I had any other view all along, than not to be wanting to my friend ? You may say, that I do it, that 1 may once more assert my superiority at the bar of justice But even that has no intiuence with me. I wish that I could be as much superior to all domestic troubles as I am to Meaning the railing of his nephew against him. 122 CICERO^S EPISTLES to these idle rumours. What ! do you imagine that I aspire at any thing * which I have not yet effected ? Well then, may not a man change his way of thinking ? And yet I cannot but approve of what I have done already. At the same time^ I can with great consistency lay aside, as I do, all thoughts of doing so any more. But enough of trifles. EPISTLE XXL 1 SENT you a pretty long letter by Hirtius, which I had written but a little before at Tuscu- lanum. I shall at another time answer yours of the same date; but at present, I choose to an- swer your other letters. How should I do any thing with regard to Torquatus, without hearing somewhat from Dolabella? A soon as I do, you shall know. I look for the return of my express from him to-day, or to-morrow, at farthest. As soon as the dispatches arrive, I will forward them to you. I expect to hear from my brother, for you know 1 sent an express when I left Tuscula- num upon the S24th. But now to my purpose. The term inhibere which you suggested, and which at first pleased me, does not now meet my approbation. It is quite * To be at the head of Roman eloquence. TO ATTICUS, 1S3 quite a sea term ; I knew that before, but still I thought, that when it was made use of as a word of direction to rowers, they then rested upon their oars. But I was undeceived in this notion yesterday, while a vessel was plying near my villa; for when that was the word, they did not rest upon their oars, but they rowed in another man- ner than before. Now^ this is quite a different sense from the term Epochs. You will, there- fore, insert sustinere in your copy ; and apprise Varro likewise, unless he has changed it already. No better word can be used than sustinere in the sense LucuUus ^ uses it Sustineat currum ut bonus scEpe agitator equosquCf Carneades always expresses by Epochs the posture of a boxer taking aim at his antagonist, or a charioteer holding in his steeds before he starts. But inhibitio implies motion, and a strong motion too ; for it signifies a ship going backwards ^ You 1 T cannot easily believe that the verse here quoted was writ- ten by LucuUus. It was more probably put into his mouth by our author in the first edition of his academics, in which that great man is made an interlocutor, 2 The criticism which Cicero here makes on the word sfnx^tv, inhiheray shews that he was much less accurately acquainted with the Greek language than his friend Atticus. To express that suspense of the judgment^ which the academy recom- mended 124 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 1£5 You see how much more I am concerned about this matter than I am about the talk you men- tion, or about the news concerning Pollio '. Let me know if the news from Pansa' be true; for I suppose mended, before it proceeded to pronounce upon the subject of deliberation, Atticus proposed the use of the term tn^yy, or tnhihltio, as very appropriate for the purpose. This, at first, pleased Cicero, but as it was applied to a ship whose motion was not suspended, but changed, he rejects it for another. But Atticus must have replied to this, that e7ro;^„, as its etymology suggests, signifies not merely the act of the mind in restraining Its impulse from passing on, as it were, to assent or dissent, but in dwelling upon and retracing its progress, so as to have a new and a more accurate view of the subject of its deliberation. In this respect, its conductis analogous to the reverted motion of a ship, or of a chariot, as mentioned by Cicero; and these analo- gous ideas might with perfect propriety be expressed by the same term. On the other hand, the word sustincre is not pro-' per, because it does not follow, that when the oars are sus< pendper, na / neces- sary, to be done. 1 thoug t, as you write, that my information about .Andronienes uas false. For you musi hdve kno^n, had tne thing been as was reported, and jou would have told me of it. Your letter speaks so much ot Jbrutus, that you have said nothing of yourself. But when do you think lie wiil come to Tusculanum? For I go to Rome on the 14lii. I meant to tell Brutus in my letter (but, as you teii me you have read it, I have perliaps been a little ob- scure) that I unders ood by your letters, that he was against mv coming to Rome at this time, for no other reason, as it were, than to pay my compliments to him. Put, as 1 am now about to set out, 1 beg you w ill so order matters, that the business, of tlie loth, may not prevent his coming to Tusculanum at his own leisure. For I shall have no occasion for his presence at the sale. You are sufficient to manage any affair of that kind. But I w anted him to witness my will. will \ though I can put that off to another time. Lest I should seem to come to Rome on that ac- count, I have for this reason written to Brutus, thati shall have no occasion for him as I thought I should upon the 15th. 1 therefore beg you will manage this whole aftair, so as not to occasion Brutus any inconvenience. But why, my friend, are you so much alarmed at my making you answerable for tiie reception of my books with Varro ? If you have even now any difficulties, let me know them. Sure no- thing can be more elegant", than they are; I have addressed them to Varro, chiefly because he desired that compliment ; but, as you know, He is so severe a mmiy that he would Discover faults in ichat from fault lsfree—\ I very 1 He had probably, in consideration of Terentia, his former wife, upon whom his son and grandson had a dependence, made his testament a-new, and had it witnessed by more cre- ditable and disinterested people than before. 2 1 question whether Monsieur Mongault has not mistaken the sense of this passage. The orignal is. Nihil est enim illis elegantius. He translates it, // n'est rien de mieux ecrit que ce livres. 1 am not positive whether this may not be the irue sense ; I only should be gUul if our author has not been guilty of such gross vanity, and if he only jokes here upon the ele- gance of the binding, the writing and the like, ot the dedica- lion book which he hints at, more seriously a few lines after. I have therefore translated his words literally, and the reader may make what application of them he pleases. 136 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 137 I very often think I see him complaining, per- haps that my part, in those treatises, is more fully defended than his. But I solemnly appeal to yourself that it is not ; and you shall be judge when you have leisure to read the books at Epi- rus; for at present the dispatches between you and Alexion^ must engross all your attention. Meanwhile, I really cannot be of opinion, that Varro will dislike the compliment I have paid him, and as I have been at the expence of large paper for the dedicated copy, which, I should be obliged to you, if you would present to him. But I tell you again and again, that vou must be answerable for the success of its re- ception. If therefore you have any scruple, in- stead of Varro, let us fix upon Brutus, for he too is a follower of Antiochus. How much do my academic disquisitions resemble the academy itself, never regulated by fixed principles, but fluttering from one object to another^ But let me ask you, are you not greatly pleased with my dedication to Varro ? Let me perish if ever I was ^ He was steward and agent for Atticus, upon his estates in Epirus. - The crisinal is, 0/ Academiam volnticainy etsui similevi, modo hue modo illuc. His meaning is, that the names of the speakers, in his Dialogues, are as often changed, as the scholars of the academy changed their sentiments. The epithet vola- iicam, which is here beautifully applied, carries an allusion to the grove of Plato, where the birds sung and fluttered from .one branch to another.-— E- ! I «»t was at so much pains about any thing ; I did not even dictate it to Tyro, who can take in whole periods, but to Spintherus word by word. EPISTLE XXVL I APPROVE greatly of what you propose con- cerning Virgilius \ you will therefore put it in execution. Let that seat be our first considera- tion ; and Clodia's the next. If I can get nei- ther, I am afraid I shall be weak enough to buy that of Drusus at any price. You are no stran- ger to this affair, and to the immoderate passion I have to see it finished. I therefore sometimes resume the thoughts of building at Tusculanum, for I will do any thing rather than it shall not be finished this Summer. In my present circumstances, I can enjoy my- self no where better than at Astura. But the company that are with me (I suppose because they cannot put up with my melancholy disposi- tion) are making haste to Rome. I am deter- mined, * He was one of the co-heirs of Scapula ; I have not altered the order in which this Letter is placed in the common edi- tions, but it is easy to prove that, together with many of the following letters of this book, it was written about the time oi the writing the 40th, 43rd, 45th of the preceding book. 138 CICERO S EPISTLES mined, as I wrote you, to leave this place, lest I should seem to be quite forlorn, though I could like very well to live here. l:ut whither shall I go ? To Lanuvium ? I should love to go to Tusculanuni. — But it shall not be long be- fore you know my determination- Do you pro- ceed in writing. You cannot believe how much I write all day, nay all night, for I am a stranger to sleep. Yesterday I finished the letter to Caesar, which you advised me to write, and it was right I should compose it, in case you should judge it might be necessary to send it. As mat- ters are now circumstanced, 1 can see no such necessity, but that shall be as you think proper ; I shall however send you a copy of it from Lanuvium, if I do not go to Rome. But you snail know farther to-morrow. EPISTLE XXVII. W nil regard to myself, I always thought it extremely proper that Caesar's friends should see the letter I sent him before it Cdme to liis hands; I should have acted disrespectfully towards them had 1 done otherwise, and dangerously for my- self had I given him any offence. As to them, they have acted very openly. It gives me plea- sure that they speak their sentiments so frankly as they have done, but I am better pleased that they TO ATTICUS. 139 they want so many alterations, that I must write the letter a-new, which they cannot expect. Yet after all, why should I hint at any thing con- cerning the Parthian war, but what I knew would be to his liking; for what is the whole de- sign of my letter, but to keep him in good hu- mour ? Should I have been at a loss for expres- sion, had my intention been to have spoken to him in what I think ought to be the language of a good patriot ? We must therefore let the let- ter, remain where it is. For in a case where no great good could arise from success, and where the consequences may be vexatious from the smallest miscarriage, why should we run any risk ? especially when we consider that, as I had written nothing to him before, he might conclude that 1 never would have addressed any thing to him, unless the war had been entirely finished. I likewise am apprehensive, lest he should think that I design this letter to be a sort of apology for my panegyric upon Cato. In short I greatly regret the event; and nothing, in the whole, gives me so much pleasure as that my complai- sance has been disapproved of; not to mention my exposing myself to the ridicule of his party, and of your nephew among the rest. But now as to the gardens. — Unless it is in every respect agreeable to you, I would not have you to go to tliem. For there is no hurry. But wiiat- «ver happen?, let us do all we can to get pay- ment 140 CICEROS EPISTLES ment from Faberius. Meanwhile, inform me^ if you know any thing of the day of sale- I instantly dispatched to you the messengev who came from Cumae, with the news of your daugh- ter's perfect recovery, and of his having letters for you. EPISTLE XXVIII. jljLs you was to see those gardens to-day, I sup- pose I shall know to-morrow^ \\hat you think of them. In regard to Fabenus, we will talk of him when he arrives* With respect to my letter to Caesar, believe me when I swear to you, that I can do nothing in it- It is not the dread of disgrace, (though that ought to have a powerful influence with me) that deters me. For is it not scandalous to flatter the man, under whom one ought to be asham- ed even to live ? But as I was saying, it is not the dread of shame that deters me ; I wish it w^ere, for I should then act more consistently with what ought to be my own character. But nothing occurs to me. You are no stranger to the nature of those persuasive addresses which were made to Alexander, by men of elo- quence and learning. They addressed a young prince fired with the love of the truest glory, and TO ATTICUS. !4! and panting for those counsels which lead to the paths of unperishable fame. Eloquence is not v/anting, when it is inspired by a subject truly glorious. This in Caesar I do not possess. Ne- vertheless, from the untowardly materials of the oak, I have carved, if not the image of true ^lory, yet something that bears the resemblance of it ; and because some strokes in it were bet- ter than those which we have seen, and daily see, they are blamed, at which I am by no means sorry, as, believe me, I should have beei^ liad that letter been forwarded to Caesar. Reflect, my friend, how sublime was the ge- nius, how amiable was the modesty of that pupil of Aristotle ; but, after being hailed king of the East, he grew haughty, extravagant, and cruel How then can you imagine that the man, whose statues are carried in procession with those of the iiods, and stands under the same roof with that of the father of Rome, can have any agreeable relish for than plain, that modest, letter of mine? Let him blame me for not writing, rather than condemn what I write. In short, he may do as he thinks proper ; I am no longer troubled with the doubts and difficulties which I imparted to you. Indeed the desire, which I now feel for the event, whatever it may prove, exceeds the fear which I previously entertained of it. I should be i?;lad to see you here, unless some- what of consequence should detain you. Ni- cias 142 CICERO'S EPISTLES cias is earnestly called upon by Dolabella, (for I saw the letter) I was sorry for it, but yet 1 advised him to go. This I write with my own hand. EPISTLE XXIX. W iiiLE I was asking some indifferent ques- tions of Nicias, concerning men of learning, our conversation fell upon Talna. Nicias said not much in commendation of his talents, but he said that he was a modest, industrious man. There was one thing, however, I did not like. Nicias said that he knew Talna had lately court- ed Cornificia, the daughter of Quintus Cornifi- cius, an old woman, and one who had been se- veral times married, but that she, and her female relations, did not approve of the match, because they found that his estate did not exceed eight thousand serteces. I thought proper you should know this. I have received information about the gardens, from your letter, and from Chrysippus. I was no stranger to the inelegance of the house, and I perceive it has received few or no alterations.. Chrysippus however praises the large baths, and he says that winter baths may be made of the smaller ones ; I must therefore add a small co- vered TO ATITCUS. 143 vered gallery, and though I should make it as large as that I have built at Tusculanum, yet this seat will cost me little more than half of what the other did. As to my design of erect- ing a temple, nothing can be more proper than the grove which I remember ; but when I knevr it, it was an unfrequented place, though now I hear it is greatly frequented. I conjure you, however vain, to indulge me in this passion. Let me but once be paid by Fa- berius, and never mind the price. I would have you outbid Otho, whom I know too well to be- lieve that he will bid extravagantly ; I hear he has suffered so much, that he will be no formi- dable competitor. Had he money, would he ever bear with what he has borne ? But what am I talking ? If you get in the debt of Fabe- rius, let us buy them at any rate ; if you do not, I shall not be able to buy them at a low rate. We must in that case, apply to Clodia, with whom I am in some hopes to agree, both, be- cause her gardens are far less valuable, and the time of Dolabella s payment is so near, that I can promise her ready money. So much for the gardens. To-morrow I expect yourself, or your excuse. Perhaps you may be employed by Fa- berius. But come if possible. EPISTLE 144 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XXX. 1 HAVE sent you back our nephew's letter. How hardened must you be if you do not tremble at the dangers he has incurred. At the same time he blames me in a letter which I would have sent you, had you not sent me yours ; for every thing else that regards the campaign is, I be- lieve, the same in both letters. To-day I have dispatched an express to Cumse, and charged him with your letter to Vestorius, which you de- livered to Pharnaces. Just as I had sent De- mea to you, Eros arrived here. But there is no other news in the letter he brought, but that the sale will be in two days. After it is over, do you then come as you promise me : I wish you could first finish mv tretnsaction with Faberi- anus. Eros says, that he is not arrived at Rome to-day, but he thinks that he will to-morrow morning. You must pay your court to him ; for there can be no guilt in any complaisance of that kind. I hope to see you the day after to- morrow. I wish you could recover the names of the ten deputies who were sent to Mummius. They are not mentioned by Polybius, I remember Al- binus the consular, and Spurius Mummius were two TO ATTICUS, 145 two of them. If I mistake not, Hortensius told me Tutitanus was another. But I perceive, from the Annals of Libo, that Tutitanus was not made Praetor till fourteen years after the consulship of Mummius. This does not tally. I design to compose a discourse held in an as- sembly of patriot statesmen at Olympia, or some other proper place in the manner of your friend Dicaearchus. EPISTLE XXXI. vJn the morning of the 27th, I received a let- ter from Demea, dated the day before, by which I ought to expect you to-day or to-morrow ; but I believe, though I wish for your coming so soon, I shall be the very person who will prevent it. For though that transaction with Fabrianus is in great forwardness, yet it is not so forward as not to occasion some delay to your setting out As therefore you have staid so long, you may come at your leisure. I beg you would send me the Treatises of Dicaearchus, which you men- tion. You may likewise add that upon the De- scent. I have laid aside all farther thoughts of the Vol. III. L letter 146 CICERO'S EPISTLES letter^ I addressed to Caesar; and yet in it t advised him to the very measure which his friends say he declared in writing, that he would under- take nothing against the Parthians, until he had settled all the affairs of the Roman government. But, at the same time, I left it to himself what course to take. Now you must know that he waits for my opinion, nor will he do any thing till he knows it. Let us, my friend, decline all considerations of that kind ; let us be, at least, half free, which we can be only by silence and retirement But you will, as you write me, negociate with Otho. My dearest friend, finish that aflkir. For I can 1 It is pity that this letter has not come to our hands ; for, in the manner our author talks of it, it must have done great honour to his memory. Meanwhile I cannot help thinking there is a great deal of griTiiace in his apprehensions from Caesar, who wa* too great a roan, and had too great a supe- riority of geniuij to take any thing amiss^ that our author could sav. Cicero however had great management to observe to- wards Caesar's friends and ministers, and so had Atticus, which was the true reason why they durst not send that letter to Caesar, without their participation. There might [be many things in it which Caesar might be fond of, (and indeed I be- lieve our author knew, and thought so) and yet be extremely distasteful to the great men who acted under Cxsar. Mean- while, if the orations, which our author, about this time, pronounced before Caesar, are the very same with those which have come to our hands, we have full proofs of tho noble in- dulgence which Caesar gave to his eloquence, and that it was not Caesar, but his ministers whom Cicero dreaded. « TO ATTICUS. 147 I can find no other place where I can keep my- self retired from the public, and, at the same time, enjoy your company. Now my scheme, as to the payment for that seat, is as follows. Caius Albanius, has bought of Marcus Pilius, a certain number * of acres, for which he is to pay him one hundred and fifteen thousand serteces, to the best of my remembrance ; though, you know, that the price of every thing is now greatly fallen. But I have a strong desire for the place, nor do I think, I shall have any body to bid against me for it, excepting Otho. But, perhaps, you may be able to make some impression upon him, especially if you can get Canus to second you. What a stupid cormorant he is ! He is a disgrace to his family ^ Btit write me an answer when you think proper. EPISTLE ^ The reading here is very uncertain in the original. I have, therefore, as the matter is of little consequence, kept an inde- finite number of acrv s. * Orig. Putet me patris. The reader must perceive ho\V extremely uncertain Cicero's meaning is here. I have given it the most probable turn I could. He probably either meant to say. Does he think, that my passion as a father, for having this temple erected, will carry me so far as to gratify Otho at any rate, or to bid extravagantly for ihe estate ; or does he think, that my passion as a father, for my son who has run into extravagant expences at Athens, has disabled me from buying it ? # 148 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XXXIl. JL HIS day I have received from you a second letter. I am unwilling, therefore, to send you in return only one. Do you deal with Faberius, as you mention in yours. All my hopes depend upon that transaction, and (believe me in this as in every thing else) it never otherwise would have entered into my head. Continue, there- fore, your earnestness, which I know, cannot be exceeded. Press him by all possible means to come to a conclusion. I beg you will send me the two Treatises of Dicaearchus concerning the soul, and that upon the descent into the cave of Trophonius. His dissertation under the title of Tripolitkon^ \ cannot find; nor am I able to meet with the letter which he addressed to Aris- toxenes-. I should be extremely glad to have those three books at present, because they suit well with my intention. My Torquatus is at Rome, and I have ordered it to be delivered to you. If I mistake not, I sent you before my Catulus 1 Orig. TpivoXtriKov . This treatise is quoted by Athenaeus, and I suppose, received its name from his treating of three states, viz. those of Athens, Corinth, and Pellene. - He was a very voluminous author, and a disciple of Aris- totle, whom he followed iu not believing tlie soul to be im- mortal. TO ATTICUS. 149 Catulus and Lucullus. I have prefaced them a-new, with a panegyric upon t'leee two great men. These prefaces, w^ith other additions, I have ordered to be delivered to you. I perceive you misapprehend what I wrote to you concerning the ten deputies, because, per- haps, I wrote it in characters'. My inquiry was concerning Caius Tuditanus, who, as I was told by Hortensius, was among the ten deputies. Now, I perceive by the annals of Libo, that he was praetor under the consulate of Publius Popi- lius, and Publius Rupilius. My difficulty is, whether he could have been a deputy fourteen years before he was praetor, unless, which I can- not suppose, that he was very old when he was made questor^ For, I perceive that he rea- dily obtained the curule magistacies in the years appointed by law. As to Postumius, whose statue you say, you remember in the Isthmus of Corinth, I know he was one of the ten deputies. He is the same who was consul with Lucullus, whom you proposed as a proper person to take a part ^ Orig. /^la. (TyiyLttun. Per noias From this, and mnnv other passages t a liqiiity, it appears, that the practice of writing in short-hand was common in the days of our author; and under the Emperors it was brought to great [lerfeciion. ^ Our author cannot imagine, that this Tuditanus should be an old man when lie tirst was made questor, which was the lowest of all public offices, as he went through all the higher offices with such dispatch and regularity. 150 CICERO'S EPISTLES f TO ATTICUS. 151 a part in my dialogues. Find out some others if possible, that the respectabihty of the speakers may contribute to the credit of the work. EPISTLE XXXIII. W HAT amazing negligence ! Can you ima- gine that Balbus and taberius did not often tell me, that the declaration had been made*? I even sent one at their request (for they said it was proper) to make it, and it was made by our freedman Philotimus. If I mistake not, you are acquainted with the clerk. Whether you are or not, write to him, and let him forthwith engross the deed. I have wriiten to Faberius, in the terms you desire. I suppose that you have concluded upon something with Balbus to- day in the capitol. I am under no restraint with regard to Virgilius'. Surely I am far from being under * Orig. Professionem relatam. This refers to a declaration which every Roman was obliged to get before the praetor^ of the increase of his estate, since the last general Census or sur- vey of the people, at which time he was obliged to make a de- claration of all he was worth. 2 Our author seems to have been sometimes very pliable in his principles of patriotism. Nothing was more common for him than to exclaim in the most bitter manner against those who bought estates confiscated by a conqueror, and yet, he could buy this estate of Virgilius, which was confiscated for his adherence under any obligations to him, and should I buy his share of the gardens, how can he be at any oss^? But let us take care, that he does not act the part of a Cailius in Africa ^ You will talk concerning that debt with Cispius ; but if Plancus has an eye upon the effects, the trans- action will be attended with difficulties. I am as impatient as you are for your coming hither. But that affair must be by no means neglected. You tell me, that it is possible to prevail with Otho, which gives me great satisfaction. When we be- gin to treat, we shall then think of the valuation^, though he wrote nothing to me, but concerning the quality of the land he wanted. Endeavour to come to a conclusion with Piso if possible. I have adherence to his country's interest, without any scruple. By this purchase he stood in the place of Virgilius, who was one of the coheirs of Scapula, and he was thereby at liberty to bid for the gardens. It is true, this Virgilius was governor of Sicily during our author's banishment, and was far from being com- plaisant to him at that time. But still, one should think, that tlie principles of patriotism might have got the better of any private resentment or affection. ^ Because, if he obtained his pardon, he would have a title to the purchase-money, which, however, was generally far be- low the value of the purchase. * This is the Caelius whom our author mentions in the twelfth letters of the tenth book, who made a stand in tlie Marian in- terest, and obtained his terms. ' Probably Otho was willing to give over thoughts of the pur- chase, provided our author, would sell him part of his estate, which was to be valued. 152 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 153 I have received the treatise of Dicaearchus, and I look for his descent into the cave of Tropho- niiis. If you employ a proper hand, he will find what I want to know in the register of the senate's re- solutions, under the consulate of Cnaeus Cor- nelius and Lucius Munnnius. With regard to Tuditanus, your opinion is very plausible'. Hor- tensius would not without good grounds, have affirmed, that he was at Corinth, and if so, he must have then been a questor, or a uiilitary tri- bune. You may come at the truth by Antiochus. Inform yourself likewise, in what year he was a questor, or a military tribune, if neither of those answers with the year, whether he did not serve amongst tLe prtfects, or amongst the volun- teers, provided he served at all in that war. As I was going to speak of Varro, he comes in like the wolf in the fable. He is just arrived here, and at an hour that required my keeping him all night. But my entreaties to make him stay, were not so pressing as to tear his robe. For I remember your manner ; besides, he had a great deal of company along with him, and I was not prepared for their entcrtainuient. But this is immaterial. Soon after, Caius Capito ar- rived ^ Orig, Contiilernalilus. They were young gentlemen of fortune and family, who served under generuls of reputa ion, and were treated pretty much upon the same footing as our vot iunteers of distinction. \. rived with Titus Carrinas, and I but just touched their garment, when they consented to stay, which happened luckily enough. But by acci- dent Capito talked about the project of enlarg- ing the city; he said, that the Tiber was to be turned from the Milvian bridge, and to run by the foot of the Vatican mountain ; that tire Cam- pus Marti is was to be enclosed and built upon within the walls, and that the Vatican field was to supply its place. What, said I, is your opi- nion ? Am I safe to buy the gardens of Sca- pula? Take care, answered he, what you do in that, the law will certainly pass, for Caesar is much for it. I was glad to receive this intelli- gence, but should be sorry were the thing carried into execution. But what is your opinion ? But why should I ask that? For you know, that Ca- pito does not yield even to Camillus himself, in hunting after news. Upon the whole, you will make me certain as to the transaction of the 15th, for it is that which carries me to Rome. It is true, I have other bu- siness, but I could easily put that off for a day or two. Meantime, I would not have you fa- tigue yourself by the journey, and I excuse Dio- nysius likewise. As to what you write concern- ing Brutus, I have left him entirely at liberty in regard to me, for I wrote to him yesterday, being the 15th of May, that I should have no occasion for his attendance. EPISTLE 164 CICERO S EPISTLES EPISTLE XXXIV. J[ RESTED for three hours at Lanuvium,. to avoid the excessive heat, so that I did not come to As- tura till the 23d. If it is not too much trouble to- you, I beg you would so contrive, as not to render it necessary for me to come to Rome be- fore the 7th of next month. You may bring this about by the means of Egnatius JMaximus. I beg of you above all things, to finish the affair with Publilius* before my arrival,, and write me what the world say concerning it ; since it is be- come a subject of public notice. This indeed I did not expect : for it is now an old story. Alas! in what I write, I only mean to fill up this page. Why should I say any more r tor I am to see you in person, unless you give me a farther leave of absence. It was with that view that I have written to you concerning the sale of the gardens. EPISTLE ^ He was brother to bis last wife, and this probably related lb our author's divorce. TO ATTICUS. 155 EPISTLE XXXV. How scandalous is it, that your countryman' is upon enlarging the walls of Rome, though he saw it for the first time but two years ago. Does he then think it too little, when it is large enough to contain even him. I therefore, expect a letter from you upon the subject. You write me, that you will give my books to Varro, as soon as he shall arrive. If so, they are delivered by this time, and now you cannot retract. Alas ! you know not to what danger you have exposed your- self But, perhaps, my letter on that head has kept you back ; though, when you wrote your last, you had not received it. I therefore, am impa- tient to know how that affair will turn out. EPISTLE XXXVI. \V HEN you tell me of the affection Brutus ha» for me, and of your conversation together, you tell me nothing that is new. I have heard the same thine often, but the oftener I hear it, I hear it 1 Orig. Gen tills tuus. He probably was a Greek; for our author often jokes Atticus with being a Greek from his great affection to tliat country. 156 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. .157 it with the greater pleasure, and that too is ang- merited by the satisfaction which it gives you; and I am the more sure not to be mistaken, since I have my information from yourself. EPISTLE XXXVII. Jt HIS is my second letter to-day. With regard to the debt due to yoti by Xeno, and the forty thousand serteces, which lie for you in Epirus, nothing can happen more conveniently and fitly than what you write. The younger Balbus men- tiarred the thing to me in the very same manner you do. I have no news whatever but that Hirtius is a strenuous champion for me against my nephew Quintus, who rails against me on all occcasions, and especially at entertainments* When he is tired of abusing me, he then falls up- oahis father; but he says nothing so specious as that both of us are irreconcileable to Caesar, who, he says, ought not to trust us, and that he ought to be on hisguard especially against me (this might have dreadful consequences with regard to me, did I not know that the tyrant thinks I have no spirit left) and that I act cruelly to my son. — But let him talk a^ he pleases. — I am glad that I gave to Lepta my panegyric upoa tipon Porcia ^ before I received your letter. If you love me, you will take care, if it is sent at all to Brutus and Domitius, that it be the very same as it goes out of my hands. I beg you will daily inform me concerning the gladiators, and other subjects of public conversation. If you think proper, I wish you would talk to Balbus and Offi- lius, about advertising that sale. I have myself spoken to Balbus, and he has consented to it. I suppose, Offilius has a catalogue of all the effects, as well as Balbus. But Balbus was for having the sale to be within a day or two, and at Rome. If Caesar should not come so soon, it may be put off for some time. But it is probable that he will arrive immediately. You will therefore think of all this. Vestorius is of the same opinion with me. EPISTLE XXXVIII. 1 SCRIBBLED I know^ not what to you before day- break by the same lamp, and with the same pea witk She was the sister of Cato, and the mother of Donaitias ^^i obarbus. Those panegyrics upon old ladies, which were common in Rome, answered pretty much to our funeral ser- mons. That mentioned here never was pronounced, and i* now lost. 158 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 159 with which I was writing against the Epicureans ^, and I sent it off before it was light. Afterwards, falling asleep again, and waking with the sun, I received a letter from your nephew, which I have sent to you. The beginning of it, is highly insul- ting, though perhaps he intended no insult. For he says, *' I do not approve, that any thing un- handsome should be said of you," meaning, that though a great many unhandsome things may be said of me, yet, that he was against their being said. Can any thing be more unbecoming ' than this ? But I have sent for the letter, that you might read the whole of it. You may perceive ', that he was moved by the daily and repeated en- comiums which Brutus made upon me, and of which many people have given me information, and this made him write to me, as I suppose he has to you. If he has, you will let me know what it is. I know not what he has written to his fa- ther, but you shall hear how respectfully he writes I to * He was then composing hisTusculan questions. 2 Perhaps the reader may think with me, that onr author is a little too sore upon this occasion 5 for indeed, I can see no- thing in the passage here quoted, that ought to give him so much offence. 3 I read the whole of this passage as follows. Jam ccetera le* ges, misi enim ad te; judical is que, Bruti nostri quotidianis as' siduisque laudiOus, fjuas ah eo de nobis haheri permulti mlhi re- nuntiaverunt, commotum istum aliquando, scripsisse aliquid ad me : credo et ad te. L to his mother. " I wanted, says he, that yooi should hire me a house, that I might be the oftener with you, and I wrote you so much, but you took no notice of it ; we therefore can have very little of one another's company; for I can- not bear that house of yours, you know for what reason. Now my brother says, that the reason he hints at here is his hatred to his mother. Now, my dearest friend, assist me with your advice; whether I ought to attack this fellow fro?n the high and open walls of justice^ or nieat him in the crooked paths of disguise. For to use the words of Pindar. '' I am divided whether or not to express the real truth \ The former is most agreeable to my inclination, but the latter, perhaps, is better suited to my circumstances. You may depend upon my agreeing with your advice be it what it will. I am extremelyj afraid lest he should surprise me at Tusculanum. Were I at Rome, I could manage better. Then ought not I to go to Astura ? But what if Cajsar should arrive suddenly. I beg you will assist me with your counsel. I will do whatever you shall think proper. £PISTL£ * The passage in Pindar, to which Cicero alludes is lost. But it appears to be the same with that quoted by Plato de Repub. Lib. ii. though in a different sense. 'jrorsfo>^(KafTttx,osv4^4^ 160 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 161 EPISTLE XXXIX. W HAT an arrogant fellow your nephew is I He writes to his father in very dutiful terms, that he must leave his house on account of his mother. The old man gives way, and says, that his son has reason to hate his mother. But I will follow your advice. For I see you are for temporizing measures. I will as you advise me, come to Rome, but even, that will be against my inclina- tion, for I am extremely busy in writing. You will sav, that I shall see Brutus at the same time. But that would be no motive for me, were it not for another reason. I do not like the quarter from whence he has come\ He has not been long away, nor has he written to me any letter. I am, however impatient to know what success he has had, upon the whole in his journey. I beg that you will send me the books which I wrote for to you before, and especially the remarks upon Plato's -Pha^drus, and the lives of the illus- trious men of Greece ". EPISTLE , Meaning from Caesar, 1 - Ori(T, ipactlpn irs^Kra-ujv, K, EKXa.'^os, This I have translated upon conjecture;, for the origmal is corrupted. m (1 EPISTLE XL. JL/OES Brutus then say, that Caesar brings good news for our patriots ? but where can he find them unless he hangs himself, and follows them into the other world ? for his power is too well established in this. Where, where is now your fine device which I saw hanging in your cabinet^ I mean, an Ahala and a Brutus in one piece. But what can he do ? It happens luckily, that even the author of all the scandalous things our nephew has done, has no good opinion of him. I was afraid, lest Brutus himself should have fallen in love with him, for he intimated so much in the letters he wrote in answer to mine. I should have been glad to have heard something of their conver- sation. But as you write to me, we will talk of this at meeting. But what will you advise me to ? Am I to go instantly to Rome, or am I to stay here ? I am, indeed, extremely fond of my stu- dies * Ofig. Parthenon. This probably signifies a maiden apart- ment, and perhaps was so called by Atticus, because only a very few choice relations or friends got admittance into it. Tlie Servilius Ahala, here mentioned was an ancestor of Brutus by the mother's side, and was famous for killing Spurius Melius. By the hint which our author gives us in this passage, it is plain, that the greatest men of Rome looked upon Brutus, as the deli- verer of his country. Vol. hi. M ^ . 162 CICERO'S EPISTLES 'ro ATTICUS. 163 dies, and I am unwilling to receive that fellow here. I hear his father meets him to-day at the Acronoman stones. You cannot conceive in what a passion he went. It is true, I reproved him for it. I myself am in suspense ; I must therefore take time to consider. Meanwhile, do you consult with yourself, and let me know your opinion about my going to Rome ; and if you can have any insight of the other matters by to-mor- row, let me know early next day. EPISTLE XLI. A HAVE actually sent off to my brother, the letter addressed to your sister, upon his complaining o^ the variance between his wife and son, which he said would oblige him to leave his own house to the latter. I have acquainted him, that he has written a civil letter to his mother, but none to you. My brother seemed to be surprised at the first part of this intelligence, but with regard to his omitting to write to you, he took that blame upon himself, because he had often in his letters to his son, complained bitterly of your ha- ving treated him ill. When he intimated, that his resentment was now cooled (and after reading your letter^ advising to temporize) I told him, that ^ Monsieur Mongauit has certainJy misunderstood this pas- sage. that I should show as little resentment as he. We then talked of Cana, and should that marri- age be adviseable, it must necessarily be brought about by lenient measures. But as you advise, w^e must still have regard to our own characters and importance, and we ought to act entirely in concert together ; though indeed, his treatment of me has been more disrespectful, and is doubt- less more notorious. If Brutus, however, brings us any new light, there can be no manner of doubt of our following those measures. But we shall talk farther at meeting, for the affair is weighty and delicate. I therefore, unless you can for some time longer dispense w ith my ab- sence, will set out to-morrow, EPISTLE sage, by its not being properly pointed in the printed editions. The original according to my pointing is. Ego ei, tuis litteru lectis, a-KoXixs xvarocs, (versatcefraudis) significavi me nonfore. And he translates it, Je lui ai dit que depuis quefai recti la lat- ire ou vous me conseillez de menager notre neveu,je ne serois pas plus eh cohre que lui. Bat this never can be Cicero's meaning; for it is plain, from the tenor of all the former letters between him and Atticus upon this head, and even from the letter before us, that there was no good understanding between Qaintus and Atticus, and that our author did not make his bro- ther his confident in what passed between Atticus and himself- It is plain, that they looked upon Qaintus to have great weak- nesses, with regard to his son, and that he was a worthless youngs fellow. Bat at the same time, as he was so much in favour with Casar, and as they had a great match in view for him, thev thought it proper to humour him. M 2 164 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XLII. JL HE young man our nephew, has been with me in great dejection. Why so grave, said I? Need you to ask that, answered he, since I am immediately to set out, and that too for a cam- paign * as dangerous as it must be disgraceful to fue. 1 Monsieur Mongault for some plausible reasons^ thinks the campaign here mentioned to have been tliat against Pompcy's sons in Spain, and not as is common!) thought, the intended war against the Parthians. He observes, that it must have been written towards the latter end of December, in the year of Rome 707, at which time of the year, Ciesar actually set out upon the campaign against Pompey's sons, whereas the Par- thian expedition was not to take place before the months of April or May in the year 709. In the next place, that Cicero speaks here of the differences bet weeen the mother and the son, as being a newraatterj whereas, it had made a great noise aftertheSpanishwar was finished. Lastly, he observes, that if the war mentioned here is that against Pompey's children, tlie expression of the younger Cicero is entirely conformable to the sentiments of Cicero and all his tamily, who thought it disgraceful to serve against Pompey and the Republicans. For those reasons, he concludes that this letter ought to stand be- fore almost all the letters of the twelfth and thirteenth books. But after all I cannot easily be of this learned gentleman's opi- nion. For in t .e lir^t place, this letter miglit very well be written in the end of December 7()S, because, though Caesiir did not himself purpose to set out to the Parthian war, till the beginning of April following,- yet three months was a time ihort TO ATTICUS. i65 iTie. And pray, said I, are you under any neces- sity to do this ? Yes, replied he, I am in debt, and I liave not money to defray my journey to the camp. On this occasion I borrowed a Ut- tle of your eloquence by holding my tongue. But, continued he, my uncle gives me the great- est short enough for the other officers to put themselves in readi- ness for their march from Rome to the place of rendezvous. This is confirmed by a passage in Appian, lib. ii. de Bel. Civ. who tells us, that Csesar in the winter of the year of Rome 708, or rather in the beginning of the year 709, sent across the Adri- atic sea, sixteen legions of foot, and ten thousand horse for the Parthian war. Supposing therefore, as we may reasonably do, that the younger Cicero was ordered to this service, there can be no absurdity in his holding the conversation repeated here with his uncle in the end of December 7O8, especially as in all pro- bability he was not within less than three or four weeks of his departure, since we perceive, he purposed to celebrate his marriage before he went abroad. As to Monsieur Mongault's second reason, I think, the fact is against him j for I can per- ceive nothing in this letter that supposes the differences be- tween the son and the mother, to have been of a late standing, but rather the contrary 5 besides, in fact, the younger Cicero cannot well be supposed before the campaign in Spain, to have contracted so much debt as he is represented to have done here; for he was not, even at this time, above two and twenty years of age at most. As to his last conjecture of the conformity of the younger Cicero's sentiments with those of his family, our author does not give us the least intimation that the young gentleman had any scruple on that account. Nay, he was so far from having any, that he was vei:y forward in embracing Caesar's cause, and even outstript his father in his zeal. Upon the whole, I have not ventured to alter the place of this letter. 166 CICERO'S EPISTLES est pain. — How so, said I ? — Because, replies he, he is angry with me — Then why do you suffer him to be so ? for I choose to talk to him in that strain, rather than say, *' Why do you give him cause r" I will not suffer him, answered he, for I will take from him all ground of resentment Iq that, said I, you will do quite right. But, if it is not disagreeable to you, I should be glad to know what those grounds are ? — Because, replies he, when I hesitated concerning my marriage, I disobliged my mother, and, of course, my uncle. At present, every thing of that kind, is indifferent to me, and I will do as they would have me. I wish you. continued I, all happiness in the match, and I think you are very much in the right to com- ply. But when is it to be?— Why, said he, as I am determined upon the match, all times are alike to me. Then, I suppose, concluded I, you will finish it before you set out, and you will thereby give satisfaction to* your father likewise. With all my heart, replied he. And here our conversation ended. Butl--I had almost forgotten — Do you know, that the 3rd of January is my birth-day, I there- fore, expect your company. As I am writing this, behold I receive a message from Lepidus, entreating me to come to Rome. I suppose, they have not a sufficient number of augurs for the TO ATTICUS. 167 the consecration of the temple *, 1 shall then have the pleasure of meeting with you. EPISTLE XLIII. J^ WILL take the liberty of deferring my absence one day longer, and you have been very obliging in intimating the same to me, at a time when I did not look for it, for your letter seems to have been written just after the plays were over. It is true, I have some necessary business at Rome; but it may be done two days hence. fPISTLE * Monsieur Mongault looks upon the Greek expression that follows here to be irrecoverable to any sense, and in this I agree with him. But he seems to suppose that the temple, here mentioned, the dedication of which, required a certain number of augurs, at least three, to be present, to have been either the temple of Mars, or of Venus, both which were built by Caesar. But I must observe that Plutarch, in the life of Caesar and Ap- pian, de Bel. Civ. lib. ii. inform us, that there was a temple built, at this time, by the public, dedicated to Clemency, in which the statues of C«sar and Clemency were erected as join- ing hands together. As this temple was built by a decree of the senate, after the Spanish war was finished, it confirms ray conjecture in the preceding note. 168 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XLIV. Your letter gave me pleasure, but the proces- sion grieved me. My grief however was allevia- ted by some circumstances, such as that of Cotta \ As to the people, they acted nobly in giving no applause even to victory herself, while she was coupled to such a companion. Brutus has been Tvith me, and he is earnest that I should address somewhat 1 We are in the dark as to this circumstance. Monsieur Mongault, upon the supposition that this letter was written before Caesar's return from Spain, thinks that this passage can- not relate to Cotta (who was one of the commissaries for keep- ino" the Sibylline books) intending to make a motion in the senate, for declaring Caesar king, because the Sibylline oracles had declared the Parthians could not be subdued but by a king j *' for, says that translator, the report of making Caesar a king did not rise till long after this letter was written." Notwith- standing this gentleman's opinion, it is certain that the Parthian expedition was talked of even before C«sar set out for the Spanish war, and his creatures, for some months before his death, had been hinting at tjie expediency of making him king. But they were always discouraged by the people. Appian, de Bel. Civ. lib. ii. tells us that immediately upon his retiirn from Spain,*'some people were for making him king 3" nor can I find either by Plutarch or Appian, or the best authorities, that the extravagant honcurs, mentioned in this letter, were paid to Caesar, till after the battle of Cordova, when the. republican party was entirely destroyed. TO ATTICUS. 169 1 I somewhat to Caesar. I promised to do it, but let him look upon his arrogance \ Meanwhile, have you ventured to present my work to Varro?— 1 long to know his sentiments ^f it— But he must first read it— and when will that be? I approve of your indulgence to Attica. The very exhibition itself, as well as the ideas of religion and reverence which it raises, gratifies the imagination ; and so far it is right. I beg that you will send me the works of Cotta. I have those of Libo here, and I had Casca s book be- fore'. Brutus has informed me, from Titus Li- garius, that I was mistaken in making mention of Lucius Curfidius in my oration for Ligarius, but this was no more than a slip of the memory. I knew that Curfidius was intimate with the Liga- rian family, but I perceive that he was dead be- fore I spoke that oration. You will therefore take care that the transcribers Pharnaces, Anteus and Salvius, erase his name out of all their co- pies. EPISTLi; 1 Meaning that all the compliments he could pay, must be insipid after the extravagant flatteries of the senate. 2 These three gentlemen had composed books which bore their several names. 170 CICERO^S EPISTLES EPISTLE XLV. JLjamia was with me after your departure, and shewed me a letter that Caesar had sent him. It was indeed of an older date than that which Cae- sar wrote by Diochares\ but it positively inti- mated that he would be at Rome before the ce- lebration of the Roman plays. Towards the close of his letters, he orders him ^ to take care that every thing be in readiness for the exhibition of the plays, and he charges him to take care that he might not be disappointed after the dis- patch he had made to come to Rome. In short, from those letters, there can, I think, be no man- ner of doubt of his being at Rome before that time, and Lamia told me that when Balbus read that letter, he was of the same opinion. I see I have got a farther leave of absence for a few days. Pray let me know for how many ? You can know it from Baebius, and from your other neighbour Egnatius. You advise me to employ those days in my philosophical composi- tions. This I would most cheerfully do ^, but you ^ He was a favourite freednian belonging to Caesar. 2 Lamia was one of the iEdiles to whom the charge of those exhibitions were committed. They began the 4th of Septem- ber, and continued for nine days, and they were celebrated in honour of Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. ^ Orig. Cur rent cm tu quidem. TO ATTICUS. 171 you perceive that I must spend them with Dola- bella. And yet unless I had been employed in the business of Torquatus, that interval would be sufficient for making an excursion to Puteoli, and returning to the time. Lamia, it seems, was informed by Balbus, that there was, in the house \ a large sum of money, which must im- mediately be divided ; that there was likewise a great quantity of plate, besides lands, all which must be sold off at auction by the first opportu- nity. Let me know your opinion upon this mat- ter. For my own part, were I to look through all mankind, I think I could not pitch upon a more active, faithful, and affectionate agent, than Vestorius is. I have written to him in a very exact manner, and I suppose you have done the same. This I take to be sufficient, but what is your opinion ? For there is one thing only that gives me concern, which is, lest I should be thought to neglect my own interest. I therefore look for letters from you. PPISTLE * Monsieur Mongault takes no notice oi this passage, though it is a pretty obscure one. From comparing it with other pas- sages, it appears, that Brennius had left his estate to our author, and others, and that upon taking an inventory of his effects, the particulars here mentioned were discovered. 172 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XLVI. Jl OLLEX, according to his promise to return by the 13th of August, came to me at Lanuvium upon the 12th. But this same Pollex is no con- jurer \ You may therefore inform yourself from him. I have talked with Balbus, for Lepta, who is extremly anxious about his wine affair^, car- ried me to him. He was in that house at Lanu- vium, which he made over to Lcpidus. He first accosted me thus: '^ I have just received a letter in which Caesar is very positive, that he will be at Rome before the Roman plays begin." The letter 1 read. He says a great deal in it con- cerning my Cato ; particularly, that by frequently reading it, he has enriched his own stile ; but that when he read the Cato of Brutus, he thought Jiimself eloquent \ From ^ Orig. Sed Pollex plane non index. He is a thumb, not a forefinger. It is impossible to preserve this pun in English. It is sufficient to inform the reader, tliat the forefinger was termed Index from its being made use of in demonstrating ma- thematical and other propositions. * The plays and entertainments which Caesar exhibited about this time, are very famous in history j and the afl^iiir mentioned here, probably related to a commission which he was soliciting from Caesar to become one of his wine purveyors for the feast he gave to the people. ^ Orig. Malta de meo Catonc, quo scepissimc hgendo se dicit copiosiorem TO ATTICUS. 173 From him I first understood (how negligent was it in Vestorius not to inform me !) that the ad- ministration to the will of Cluvius, might be done by an attorney in presence of witnesses, and any time within the sixty days. I am afraid that Vestorius will have difficulties in adminis- tering. copiosiorem factum : Bruti Catone lecto se sibi visum disertum. Monsieur Mongault, I am afraid, has not sufficiently attended to this passage. He translates it, // dit qiien le lisant souvent son style en devient plus riche ; et que lors qui'l avoit lu le Catori de Brutus y il setoit trove eloquent. It is true, this translation, in the main, is the same with mine. But he does not observe the sarcastic turn of the passage. Brutus was, at that time, a young man of great parts and spirit, and the republican party had conceived the highest expectations from his virtues. Being a professed Stoic, he thought it did not become him to disguise his sentiments either of men or things 3 and we see, in the course of these Epistles, a certain secret malevolence which our author all along bears him for the freedom with which he spoke and wrote. It is true, they came afterwards to have great connexions together j but that was because Cicero could not longer help perceiving the exalted character of Brutus, and the world would think the worse of him, if Brutus was not his friend. But even this consideration was not sufficient for him to suffi^r Brutus to come in competition with him, for the palm of eloquence or composition. Both of them had writte^pon the same subject, viz. in praise of Cato, and Caesar, who \vas one ot the (greatest iudGjes in the world, had read both. But our author would not have reported his opinion to Atticus, in the manner he does, had he not thought that it contained a real compliment to himself at the expence of Brutus j as if Caesar had said. The stile of Cicero enriches my own; but when I read the work of Brutus, I think myself an eloquent man, \Sz, in comparison of Brutus. 174 CICERO^S EPISTLES tering^ I am now to send off an express for him to administer for me, and Pollex returns to him for that purpose. Balbus was very obliging tvhen I talked to him concerning the gardens of Cluvius, for he said he would instantly write to Caesar*. He told me likewise, that Cluvius had burthened the share of Titus Hordonius, with a legacy of fifty thousand serteces, to Terentia, a tomb, and many other particulars, but that he had not burthened mine with a farthing ; I beg that you will charge Vestorius with this neglect. How can he be excused ? Never to inform me, though my domestics were always going betweea us, of a matter which Balbus learned distinctly from the slaves of the perfumer Plotius, a long time ago. I am sorry for the loss of Cossinius : I loved the man. I will assign the remainder of the money to Quintus, if there should be any re- maining after my debts and purchases are paid. When I have done that, it is my opinion, that I must ^ Orig. Metuelam ?ie ilk arcendus esset. This may either relate to the time for accepting the administration being almost expired, or to some scruples which Vestorius might have as to the value of the effects, and that part of the estate which was devised to him j or it may be translated, " I am afraid that I must press Vestorius to accept of the administration." If we read with some old manuscripts Ne arcesscndus, it signities, that he must send to talk with him. 2 Who was one of the coheirs in the succession to Cluvius, and Balbus was his agent. TO ATTICUS. 175 must borrow money myself. I know nothing concerning the house atArpinum — But hold. — Vestorius is not to blame. For after this let- ter was sealed up, my express arrived from him in the night time with very full letters from him on the subject, and with a copy of the will. EPISTLE XLVII. After Agamemnon^ hinted to me on your part, not that I should come to Rome, as I would have done, had it not been for the affair of Torquatus, but that I should write to you, I in- stantly dropped all other business I was about, that I might execute your commands. I beg that you will receive from Pollex an account of the disbursements I have made ; for it would be dis- honourable to suffer my son, whatever may have been his behaviour, to be in want for this first year. Afterwards I will manage more frugally. Pollex must be dispatched back to Puteoli, that Vestorius may administer for me. For my own part, it is impossible for me to go thither, both for the reasons I have mentioned to you, and because Caesar is in the neighbourhood. Dolabella writes me word, that he will be with me by the i4th. The master of the horse, (and ^ He was a slave or fre^dman of Atticus, - A • 176 CICERO'S EPISTLES (and a troublesome master he is to me) last night wrote to me from Antium \ Avhere he is in the house I sold to him. He is very earnest that I should assist in the senate the first of next month, and he says, that both Caesar and he would take it as the greatest favour. I suppose, had there been any thing to do, Oppius, as Bal- bus is indisposed, would have mentioned it to you. But I shall choose to lose the trouble of my journey, rather than be absent, if there should be occasion for my presence, the consequences of 1 The whole of this passage runs thus in the original, Dola- lelia scrihit send me postridie idus, magislrum molestum ! Lepidus ad vie heri vcsperi litteras misit Antio, Monsieur Mongault has chosen to refer the expression, magistrum molestum to Dolabella, because Cicero in another Epistle says that he taught Hirtius and Dolabella to speak, and they taught him to eat° but I have chosen rather to refer it to Lepidusr who was then master of the horse to Caesar. Monsieur Moiv- gault might have produced another passage more to his pur-^ pose, viz. in Epistle 7- Lib- 9- Fam. Epist. where speaking of Dolabella he calls him maghter, or instructor, as to the man- ner in which he was to behave to Caesar. But as the word tnagister is thus indifferently applied, I cannot easily believe, that in this place it means Dolabella. Besides, it would have been highly improper for our author to have applied that ex- pression to him, without previously acquainting, or hinting to, Atticus the reason for his calling him so, which we do not find he does ift any of the preceding letters. But with regard to Lepidus, the reason is obvious, viz. because we find him per- petually teasing Cicero to leave his beloved retirement, and come to Rome, not to mention the patness of the pun in this place, and on such an occasion. TO ATTICUS. 177 of which might be disagreeable to me hereafter. To-day, therefore, I set out from Antium, so as to reach Rome to-morrow in the forenoon. I expect a visit from you and Pilia, if you are not already engaged by the last of this month. I hope you have finished the affair with Publilius. For my own part, after the first of next month, I will hasten back to Tusculanum; for I choose that all business with those people should be settled in my absence. I have sent you my brother's letter, which is not a very civil answer to mine, but, his apology may, I suppose, appear to you satisfactory. You are the best j^idge. EPISTLE XLVIII. At was yesterday rumoured that you talked of coming to Tusculanum. I heartily wish, my friend, that you would, could it be consistent with your engagements. Lepta begs me to hasten to him, if he should have occasion for my assistance, now that BabuUius is dead, who, if I mistake not^ has left Caesar his heir for a twelfth. That, however, is not so certain, as that he has left Lepta his heir for a third. He fears, though there is no ground for his apprehension, that he will not be allowed to appropriate the inherit- ance. Should he require me, I will hasten to support him, otherwise I will not stir before there Vol. IIL N h 178 CICEEO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 179 is occasion. Dispatch PoUex back to me as soon as possible. I have sent you a corrected copy of my panegyric upon Portia, which I have been the more expeditious in finishing, that it may be the copy that shall be sent, if any is sent, either ' to her son Domitius, or to Brutus. I earnestly beg, if it is not too much trouble, that you will take care of this affair, and that you will send me the panegyrics of Marcus Varro, and of Lol- lius\ (but by all means, that of LoUius, for I have read the other) upon the same subject. I am inclined however, to reperuse that of Varro, for I read it so cursorily, that many things may have escaped me. EPISTLE XLIX. JVIy compliments in the first place to Attica, who, I suppose, is in the country, and likewise my compliments to Pilia. Let me know if you have heard any thing lately concerning Tigel- liusl For, as Gallus Fabius writes to me, he charges 1 This was the noble Roman to whom Horace has addressed two of his Epistles. - He was the famous musician mentioned by Horace, and thouc^h a worthless whimsical fellow, yet he had ingratiated himself so with Caesar and his court, that he was looked upon as a man of some importance. charges me with having betrayed Phameas\ after I had undertaken to plead his cause. It is true, I was far from being fond of undertaking it against the sons of Cnaeus Octavius^, and at the same time, I wasjunder obligations to Phameas; for if you remember, when I stood for the con- sulship, he made me by you, a tender of his ser- vices. It is true, I had no occasion for them, but I look upon the obligation to be the same as if I had. Now Phameas came to tell me, that by the ap- pointmeat of the judges, his affair came on that very day, when by the Pompeian law, the cause of our friend Sestius was necessarilv to be tiied, and you know, that the rules for days by that law are not to be altered. My answer was, that he was no stranger to my obligations to Sestius, but let him pitch upon any other day he pleased, I would serve him ; upon which, he went away in a passion, as, I believe, 1 told you when we were together. I cannot say that this gave me any great pain, nor did I think, that I had the least reason to be concerned at the groundless resentment of a man to whom I was almost a stranger. I acquainted Gallus, however, next? time I came to Rome, with what I had heard, but * He was grandfather to Tigellius. 2 He was consul in the year of Rome 6/7, but he was of a •ilfferent family from Octavius the father of A'lJgustus C«sar. N 2 / 180 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 181 but without naming the younger Balbus. Gallus, according to his letters, executed the commission I gave him, and he tells me, that Tigellius said, I suspected him, because my conscience told me, I had betrayed Phameas. All that I have now to recommend to you is, if possible, to elicit his opinion of my nephew, and not to betray any anxiety about me. There are some, of whom it is no less pleasant to ex- press one's hatred without restraint, than it is to be free from obligation to all others. And yet, as you well observe, those fellows are more respect- ful to me, if indeed attention be a mark of re- spect, than I to them. EPISTLE L. Y ou having advised me in several of your let- ters, to write in a fuller manner to Caesar, and Balbus having lately acquainted me at Lanuvium of a letter sent by him and Oppius to Caesar, informing him, that I had read his book against Cato, and greatly admired it; I have written to Caesar a letter upon the same subject, which I sent to Dolabella under cover to Oppius and Balbus, with a copy of the same, desiring them not to send the original to Dolabella, unless they approved of the copy. Their answer to this was, that they never read any thing that pleased them I them better, and that they had forwarded tiie original to Dolabella. Vestorius has written to me, that I should send him by his slave, a power of attorney for my part of the succession, to authorize him to sell one of the farms of Brinnius to one Heterius, so that he may transact the affair while he is at Puteoli. As that slave comes hither by the way of Rome, and as Vestorius, I suppose, has writ- ten by him to you, I beg that you would dis- patch him to me. The accounts given me by Balbus and Oppius concerning Cassar's journey agree with yours. I am surprised that I have heard nothing of what has passed between you and Tigellius.— Were it no more than how he received my apology.— But it does not signify a rush to me.— And yet, I should be glad to know. You ask me where 1 intend to meet Caesar. Do not you think it sufficient, if I meet him at Al- sium\ For this purpose, I have written to Murena to procure me lodgings, but he, I sup- pose, is gone with ]\Iatius. I therefore, must try what can be done with Sallust. Just as I am writing this Eros tells me, that Murena has sent him back with a more obliging answer to my re- quest. I, therefore, will lodge with him, for the 1 This was a town of Tuscany, about twenty miles from Rome, situated near the sea upon the river Arno. 182 CICERO^S EPISTLES the hopse of Silius is without bedding, and that of Dida will be so full, that I suppose, he will be obliged to turn out of it himself. TO ATTICUS. 183- me word, that he would be at Rome by the 23d, but I sent him an invitation to my house, and I am now going to Rome, lest he should get thither before me. EPISTLE LI. Jlt escaped my memory to send you a copy of my letter to Caesar, nor did that oniission pro- ceed from the cause you suspect, le^t 1 should appear to you abject' and servile. So far from this, I wrote to him in that style of manly inde- pendence, which a mind, conscious of equality, na- turally dictated. Nay, you know, I told you when we were together, that I really tiad a good opi- nion of his Anti-Cato. I therefore wrote to him in a strain of freedom indeed, but such, I believe, as he will read with the highest satisfaction. My heart is at last at ease, with regard to Attica. I therefore send her and you my compliments up- on her recovery. Give me the whole of your Conversation with Tigellius, and that too as soon as possible, for I cannot be easy till I have it. You must know, that to-morrow our nephew comes to Rome, but whether he is to lodge with you or with me, I know not. He wrote me ^ Francis Odin has the credit of having here deciphered the true meaning of the onginal : Nee idfuity quod suspicaris, ut me puderet tut, tie ridicule Micillus, i, e, kikkv^^^osj ■little, mean. — E. EPISTLE LIE \Y ELL, this formidable visit at last is over, without my having reason to repent of my guest, who seemed to enjoy every thing he met with. You must know then, that on the evening before, beinfT the 18th, when he came to the house of Philip, it was so crowded with soldiers, to the number of two thousand, that there was scarcely a room empty for Caesar himself to sup in. This I own to you, gave me apprehen- sions as to my own case next day, but I was de- livered from them by Barba Cassius \ who ap- pointed me a guard. Thus the soldiers encamp- ed in the fields, and my house was kept clear. He passed the 19tli at Philip's house till noon, without suffering any person to be admitted to him, being busied, I suppose, in settling ac- counts vvith Balbus. From thence, he w^alked to my house by the shore-; after two, he v ;nt in- to the Bath. He then heard the veri.c:> noon Mctiii. M .: t a 1 He probably was a Tribune in Caesar's army. * It appears, there was scarcely the distance of a t' tween tiie house of Cicero and thatoi Philippus. 184 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 185 Mamurra\ without changing his countenance. After this he was anointed, and sat down to sup- per, when he eat heartily, and drank freely, for you must know, he had taken an emetic \ and indeed, every thing was well dressed, and the best of the kind. But of our pleasures, that was but the lasty For wit and humour seasoned our repast I Besides, Caesar's table, his retinue was plen- tifully served in three other dining-rooms ; and nothing was wanting in the entertainment of his freedmen of the second rank, and his slaves, for his freedmen of the better sort, were ele- gantly treated. In short, I came off like myself, though let me tell you, he is a guest to whom one would not say, ^* Pray do me the honour to call here as you return." No, no, one visit is enough. We talked nothing of business, but a great ^ They were written by Catullus, and are still extant. This Mamurra was a Roman knight, and general of the artillery to Caesar, but noted for extravagancy and luxury in living. The verses in question, lashed Caesar as well as Mamurra. ^ It appear? from many passages, that the ancients thought vomitting to be a great preservative of health, and a great pre- ventor of surfeits in eating or drinking. Monsieur Mongault is of opinion, that Caesar took this vomit before he came abroad in the morning j but I think, from the words of our author, there is no necessity to suppose that. ^ This is a verse from Lucilius^ and is mentioned elsewhere by our author. M great deal about learning. To conclude, he was free, easy, and happy. He told me, that he would pass one day at Peutoli, and another at Baiae. Thus I have given you an account of my entertainment, or rather of the manner of my entertainment of this great man, which put me to some inconveniency, but to no trouble. I will stay here a little, and then remove to Tus- culanum. When Caesar passed by Dolabella's house, all his troops marched close to his horse upon the right and left, which they did no where else \ This I learned from Nicia. CICERO'S * Monsieur Mongault is of opinion, that this must have been done by way of honour to Dolabella. But the learned gentie- man ought to have reflected, that Caesar's not paying Dolabella a visit, considering the great posts that Dolabella held under him, and that he passed by his house, was no great mark of confidence ; but though there should be nothing in this re- mark ; yet it is certain, that there was at this time a variance between Dolabella and Antony, who had Caesar's ear, and had accused Dolabella to Caesar, which proceeded to open war in the senate. This therefore was the true reason of Cae- sar's caution. CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK XIV. EPISTLE I. X HAVE called upon the person ^ we talked of in the morning. — According to him all is des- perate, and irreconcileable. For, if a genius like that of Cassar fiiled in expedients for una- nimity, who can hope now to succeed ? In short, he said, (though I am not sure it is so) that all was undone ; but he assured me, at the same time, with great joy, that the Gauls would in- vade ^ All the letters of this and the following books, were written after Caesar was killed in the senate, which happened on the 15th of March, in the year of Rome /Og. The person here spoken of was Matins. 188 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 189 vade our empire ^ in less than twenty days. — That he has had no conversation with any of that party 1 Orig. GalJicum tumultum. There was a difference between the Gallicum helium, and the Gallicus tumultas. The former served to express the war when it was confined be}ond the Alps, to Gaul itself. The latter was very dreadful to the Ro- mans, ever since the invasion under Brennus, when Rome itself was burnt j and when such an invasion was threatened, the ap- prehensions of the Romans were so great, that very extraordi- nary precautions were taken to defenu Italy, for at thai time, as in the time of a civil war, the censors exempted no person from carrying arms. The reader may readily ask, why Matius should be in such raptures, upon telling Cicero this disagreeable piece of news ? To which I answer (though I think it has been taken notice of by no commentator or translator) as follows. Caesar, notwith- standing his prodigious successes, and the extraordinary means he had made use of to endear himself to his countrymen, found that their minds were still irreconcileable to slavery ; and as the most glorious of his victories had been obtained over the best and the greatest of the Romans themselves, he was sensible, that something of horror and grief mingled in all their accla- mations. According to all accounts, he had a secret passion to be created king ; but the visible joy of the people upon his faintly rejecting that title, took from him all hopes of succeed- ing until he had done something that might raise his power as well as his glory beyond all possibility of an attack. It was upon this principle that ht projected the scheme of the Par- thian war, and all those mighty designs w hich could have been formed only by his genius, and executed by his power. In short, if we compare his conduct with what happened after- wards, it is plain, that he did not think peace was as yet com- patible with his safety. An unconstitutional power, like his, was not to be upheld by the practice of the most amiable \ \ w party, excepting with Lepidus, ever since the \5i\\ of March ; and upon the wlible, that things would amiable virtues, or the exercises of the most commanding ge- nius. All the mighty things he had done to reconcile the heads of the republican party to his interest, the amazing proofs he had given of clemency, moderation, and magnanimity, were ineffectual for removing in the minds of the people the de- fects of his title to be the master of Rome. Every day gave him new proofs, that empire acquired by anus, must be sup- ported by arms. His veteran army, it is true, (by tlieir long absence in the Gallic, and other, wars, and by their being so long accustomed to the military modes of Life,) he was sure would serve him faithfully ,- because, they had almost for- got they had a country, and they knew no other authority but his. But his frequent wars, and lengtb of time, had greatly reduced the number of those veterans he could depend on, and his other troops were commanded by generals who were jealous of on© another, and many of them secretly disliked his service. But he knew, that all of them would unite against a common enemy in a foreign war, and that a short time, if he commanded them in person, would easily reconcile them to his views and principles, while the keeping them employed in the remote parts of the empire, secured his government at home from all attempts. But he was cut off in the midst of those mighty designs, without leaving a successor capable of carrying them into execution. His friends and followers, however, were no strangers both to the maxims, and to the necessities of his government ; they knew that they possessed the sword j but they knew they must always hold it drawn, otherwise it must be wrested from their hands, and that too in a very short time, or else they must live upon free quarters, there being no person now powerfiil enough to bring the senate and people to consent to their proceedings. An invasion from the Gauls therefore, the most dreadful terror that could be spread 190 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 191 would take another turn \ How wisely does Oppius act, who, though he bewails the death of Caesar, yet drops nothing that can give any offence to the patriot-party ? But enough upon this subject. I beg you will not think it too much to write me all the news, for I expect a great deal — Let me know whether the accounts concerning Sex- lus spread through Rome, was the only expedient that could re- concile their country to their service ; and though this news was false, yet we find that Matius, one of Ctcsar's strongest partizans could not help mentioning it with raptures. * Orig. Ad sum mam 71071 posse istcec sic abire. Upon the death of Caesar, on the Ides of March, in the consulship of Marcus Antonius, and Cornelius Dolabeila, to whom Caesar had resigned the consulship upon his undertaking his Parthian expedition, the conspirators proclaimed peace and liberty to the people 3 but finding them in two great a consternation and ferment to bear to be spoken to immediately, they retired to the capitol ,- and Brutus in a speech to the people whom he had summoned thither, justified the act of Caesar's death, and pathetically exhorted them to protect that liberty which he and his friends had purchased for them. His speech was se- conded by our author, while Antony throwing off his consular habits, shut himself up at home, and by a very masterly con- duct he bade fair to succeed to all the power of Caesar. For Lepidus, who was a vain irresolute man, being at the head of a fine army, with which he was to have marched to the fo- vemment of Spain, which had been conferred on him by Cae- sar, had some thoughts of seizing the government, and of de- stroying the conspirators, which he might easily have done, had he not been artfully diverted from the thoughts of both by Antony, who thereby gained some credit with the conspirators. Meanwhile, v tus Pompeius ' are confirmed ; but, above all things, inform me as to our friend Brutus. The person I have been with, told me, that Caesar used to say of Brutus, " It is of great import- ance what he is earnest in ; for when he is m earnest, he is in great earnest," and that Caesar made that observation upon him when he spoke at Nicea=, in favour of king Dejotarus, for whom, he said, he spoke with amazing force and freedom. The same person told me farther, (for I love to write to you whatever comes m my mind) the last time I was with him at the desire of Sestius, and sat down, waiting till I should be called in, that Csesar said, "Can I now doubt my being greatly hated, when Marcus Cicero waits without, and cannot, when he pleases, have access to me, though, if to any man I am easy of access, it is to him ; and yet, I am sure, he hates me ?" A great deal of such conversation passed between us.— But, as I was saying, Meanwhile, both parties seemed disposed by our author's ad- vice, to pass an act of amnesty, by which, both parties were mutually to forgive, and forget all injuries, and Antony and Lepidus interchanged visits with Brutus and Cassius. It was easy for Matius to foresee, that things could not continue long in this situation. I He was a son of Pompey the Great, and was then at the head of an army in Spain. . ^ , « This was not the capital of Bithynia as the Jesuits Catrou and Rouille imagine in their Roman History, but the present city of Nice lying upon the Ligurian coast in Italy. \ 192 CICERO'S EPISTLES saying, write to me about trifles, as well as things of importance. For my part, I will omit no occurrence. EPISTLE IT. Yesterday I received two letters from you. The first informed me of the theatrical news, and the satirical strokes of the actor Publius\ The plaudits of the people are unequivocal proofs that they are pleased with the death of the usurper. As to the applause Cassius met with, I think there is somewhat in it that is hu- mourous. In your other letter you mention Matius ; you rightly imagine, that we cannot fix in his bald head - the anchor of public tranquili- ty. With him I made little stay, but proceeded, though ' We have already seen in the preceding epistles, some spe- cimens of the liberties which the Roman actors took with their great men ; and as their theatre contained audiences infinitely more numerous than any of ours can, the applause which those strokes of satire or panegyric met with, was looked upon to be the sense of the people. 2 There is a pun here arising from the Greek word, which iignifies the bald prominence of a rock, and the baldness of Matius's head, which I have endeavoured to preserve in the translation, but it is of very little consequence to explain it, because, if there is any wit in it, the reader will easily per- ceive it. 4 TO ATTICUS. 1^3 though not with the expedition I wished. I was ialso retarded too long in conversing with him ; of which conversation I sent you perhaps an ob- scure account, but it was to this effect ; he told me, that when I went to see Caesar at the en- treaty of Sextius, and was waiting till I should have access to him, Csesar said to him, " I am so simple as to believe, that this man, conde- scending as he is, is my friend, since he waits so long, till I please^ to see him." Depend upon it, that this baldpated man is very hostile to the public tranquillity, and therefore no friend of Brutus. To-day, I go to Tusculanum ; to-mor- row to Lanuvium, from whence I designed to go to Astura. My house is prepared to receive Pilia ; I wish your daughter was to come along with her ; but I forgive your fondness, and send my compliments to both. EPISTLE Hi. .According to your letter, all things are quiet; long may they continue so ! for Matius is posi- tive^ that they cannot. Meanwhile, my workmen, who had gone to Rome for corn, returned with- out any, and told us, a report prevailed there, that Antony had carried all the corn to his own house. Surely, had there been any foundation Vol. III. O for 194 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS- WS for such a report, you would have let me know. I have heard as yet nothing of Cornnfius the freedman of Balbus, and yet, I am no stranger to his name, for they say, he is an able architect. There may be reasons, why some people should be fond of calling upon you to witness their tes- taments ^ in my favour ; they would have me too, to believe them in earnest, and I know no reason why they are not. But what is that to me ? I would have you however explore the intentions of Antony. For my part I believe him to be so occupied in feasting as to have no time for dangerous designs. If you have any thing of consequence, pray let me know it. If not, write to me what the dispositions of the people appear to be, and the sarcasms of the theatre. My compliments to your wife and daughter.. EPISTLE IV. some revolution ^ ; matters are now ripening to a crisis. If the dispositions of Matius are as I acquainted you, what must that of others be? I speak it with grief, never was it known be- fore, that a people recovered their constitution and not their liberty. The talk, the menaces, of the party are dreadful. I am in pain about an invasion from Gaul, and what is become of Sex- tus Pompeius. But whatever may be the event, I will rejoice in the remembrance of the ides of March. As to the authors, all that they could perform, they performed with the most heroic grandeur. Their remaining measures require troops and money, in >ihich we are entirely un- provided. I write this to engage you to send me an immediate account of whatever shall happen, for I look every day for some news ; and, should there be none, yet still let us keep up our uninterrupted correspondence by writing ; which shall not fail on my part. JL ou surely do not suppose that I can write you any news from Lanuvium. But that is not your case at Rome, from whence I every day look for some 1 Because our author was now likely to become of great importance, on account of his credit with both parties, and it was usual for the Romans to court the friendship of a great man, by giving him to understand, that they liad put him in- to their testament. EPISTLE V. X HOPE you are now recovered, because I know that abstinence ^ usually cures you of these slight disorders ; ^ I point this passage as follows, very different from the other editions I have seen. Nunc quid putas me Lanuvii? At ego te. Istic quotidie aliquid novi suspkor, * This puts me in mind that the author o£ the Life of At« O Q^ tieut 196 CICERO s epistlp:s TO ATTICUS. f9^ disorders ; I should, however be glad to know how you are. It appears favourable, that Matius is uneasy at his being suspected by Brutus; but it will have a bad appe^^ ranee if those legions should, with a warlike aspect \ march out of Gaul- for Rome. Do not you think the legions that were in Spain will insist upon the same terms? As will those which are marched under tlie command of Annius, pardon me — I mean Canninius \ The gamester * raises a dreadful disturbance ; for were the designs of Antony justifiable, the tumult, made by Caesar'a freedman \ might have been easily quashed. My licus tells us, that, towards his latter end, he took a resolu- tion of neither eating nor drinking, which had a very good ef- fect upon his disease, which was a fever ; but he persisted so obstinately in this abstinence, that he could never be persuaded to eat nor drink, and he accordingly starved himself to death. 1 The reader, no doubt, will be offended at the jingle that \s here, but as a faithful translator, I do not think myself at liberty to omit following my author, even in his play of words, when it can be done with tolerable propriety in our language. The original runs, signa lel/a, quod Calveria moleste fert, se suspectum esse Bruto. Ilia signa non lona, si cum signis legw- nei veniunt e Gallia. « It was talked, that they intended to demand the rewards which had been premised them by Cssnr. 3 There is an obscurity here in the original, but I believe I have hit upon our author's meaning, which was to ridicule the irresolution of Antony and that party, by frequently changing the officers under tliem. '* Meaning Antony. t. ^ Vi%. When his funerals were celebrated. ! IVIy diffidence was misplaced, when I refused a legation ' before the senate broke up, lest I should seem to abandon my country, now that her at^airs are drawing to a crisis, could I as- sist lier, it would be my duty to attend. — But you sef: what kind of magistrates, if they can deserve that name, we have chosen. You see i\o ;.)ody-guards of the tyrant are possest of pro- vi^icial governments; you see an army of his veterans at our doors, and that all is in fluctua- tion. Meanwhile the men, whpse safety, nay whose slorv, merits the attendance of a grateful world, are so far from being rewarded with the praises and affections of mankind, that they are forced to conceal themselves for protection ^ But whatever may be their fate, they must be happy, it is our country that is miserable. I should be glad to know whether the arrival of Octavius ^ has made any alteration ; whether the people 1 We have already seen that those legations exempted the persons on whom they were conferred from being present in tlie senate. Vi le Vol. i, p. 107. Note 1. 2 This happened through the artful speech which. Antony made when he produced Caesar's dead body before the people, and which is so inimitably well imagined by Shakespear. Th9t speech made such an impression upon the people, that Brutus, and his friends, thought proper to retire from Rome. 3 This extraordinary young man was, at this time, but About nineteen years of age, and was at Appolonia, in order to attend his uncle Caesar in his Parthian expedition, when he heard of his death, and that he had appointed him to be his heir. 19? CICERO'S EPISTLES people rally round him ? And whether he will be able to produce a revolution in his favour? I do not think that he will, but I would gladly know the truth. I write this on the llth of April, as I am leaving Astura. EPISTLE VI. U PON the 12th I received yonr letter at Fundi, while I was at supper. In the tirst place, I am glad that you enjoy better health, and that you tell me better ne vs; for that of the march of the legions for Rome was very disagreeable. As to Octavius, I give myself no trouble about him. I long to hear what Marias ' is do- ing, I thought Caesar had sent him out of the world. The interview, between our heroes and Antony proved very serviceable, as it happened; though hitherto nothing but the ides of March has given me pleasure. tor now that I am at Fundi with our friend Ligus, I am pained to see that wretch Curtilius in possession of the estate of Sextilius. What I say of him is to be understood of all the rest. For what can be more deplorable than for us to give > We have already taken notice of this impostor, who pre* tended to be descended of the great Maiius. TO ATTICUS. 199 give a ganction to those very measures', for which we hated Csesar. Have we not confirmed the nomination of his consuls and tribunes for two years ? I can, by no means, see how 1 caa take any concern in public matters ; for a greater absurdity cannot be imagined than to extol to heaven the slayers of the tyrant, and yet sanc- tion the tyrant's acts. But look upon our con- suls; look upon our magistrates, if they can be called magistrates ; look upon the despondency of our patriots. As to the municipal towns they exult with joy. Their transports are inexpres- sible , how they flock about me ! how eager they are to hear my account of that ac- tion ; and yet, all this while, no decree passes the senate. Our timidity is such, that we are afraid of those we have vanquished. Thus faff I had dictated when the second course was served in ; I will write more fully, and more to the purpose hereafter. Let me know what you are doing, and wliat is passing abroad. EPISTLE J At die conferences already mentioned between both par- ties, when the amnesty was agreed upon, it was resolved to take from the army all pretexts of tVar that Caesar's death fhould make any alteration in the distribution ot the lands, and the other favours he had conterred upon the rest of his veterans An act therefore past conlirming all he had done, and particularly his arbitrary nomination of the consuls and tribunes, which was looked upon as one of the most unjusU- fiable stretches of his power. 200 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 201 EPISTLE VII. u POX the 14th, I saw Paulus atGaetta, and he gave me an account of Marius, and some other very bad news of public affairs. All this, while not a line from you; for none of my domestics are come from Rome. But I hear that our friend Brutus has been seen near Lanuvium. Where will he fix at last ? This is one of the many things which I earnestly desire to be informed of: I write this on the l6th in setting out from Formia, so as to be next day at Puteoli. I have received from my son, a letter in an elegant style, and of a reasonable length. I am not so certain as to the other particulars I hear of him, but by tlie manner of his writing, I an\ sure he has improved in learning. I therefore now earnestly repeat what I mentioned to you lately, that you will take care be wants for no-^ thing; for 1 cannot otherwise do justice to my duty, my character, and my dignity, and, if I am not mistaken, you are of the same opinion. Therefore, if our funds answer, I think of going to Greece next July, where I will put every thing upon a better footing. But as the times are such, that I cannot as yet determine what measures are most becoming my character, what is within my power, or what is most conducive to to my interest ; I beg you will take care that my son be provided for in the most genteel, liberal manner. You will pay your usual attention to this, and all my other concerns, and though you should have nothing material to write to me, I beg you will write whatever your tongue may dictate. EPISTLE VIII. W HEN you wrote your last, you imagined that I was in the neighbourhood of the sea* but I was in the inn at Sinuesca on the l6th, when I received your lette,r. I am glad of what has hap- pened to Marius, but I am sorry if he was the grandson of Lucius Crassus. Nor could I have heard better news, than that our friend Brutus approves of Antony's conduct'. You write me, that Junia^ had brought him a letter expressed in ^ In actis esse nostris — on our shores. Cicero from the fre^ quency of his quoting Greek terms^ sometimes writes them in Roman characters. This is the case here. A>crn is a sea or river bank. But it has been conjectured that the true reading IS agris; and surely it is much more congruous to say, in agris postris, than in actis nostris. — E. 2 Brutus and his most intimate friends, were the more readily deceived by Antony, because he had put his fictitious Marius to death, and because they knew that he had entered into some designs against Caesar, before he was killed in the senate. 3 She was the sister of Brutus, and the wife of Lepidus. r-f] 202 CICERO^ EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 203 in terms of moderation and friendship, but Paulus put into my hands a letter from his bro* ther Lepidus, the close of which intimated, that a plot had been laid against his life, and that he had discovered it by undeniable evidences. This information was disagreeable to me, but much more so to Paulas. I am not at all sorry for the flight of the Egyptian queen \ But I beg you will write to me in what manner Clodia has pro- ceeded. I beg you will take care of the Byzan- tines, and my other concerns; and send for Pelops'. I will obey you in informing you of every thing that passes at Baiae, and of that as- sembly which you are so curious to know of, as soon as I have seen it, so that you shall be igno- rant of nothing. 1 am extremely impatient for news from Gaul, from Spain, and from Sextus Pompeius, Give me every information with your usual exactness. I am glad that you had indulged yourself on ac- count of your disorder in your stomach, in a little respite from business, of which I was sensi- ble when I read over your letter. Fail not to write to me every thing concerning Brutus, where he is, and what he intends to do. I am in hopes,. that J She was the famous Cleopatra, who had been for some time at Rome, and was in great favour with Caesar, but left Korae abruptly upon his death. 2 He was a Byzantine, and appears to have been a man of some consideration in learning. that at this very time, he may walk securely all over Rome without guards. But yet he ought not to be too confident EPISTLE IX. a OUR letters, of which I received several at one time from the freedman of Vestorius, gave me much information respecting the affairs of the public. As to what you desire ta know, I will answer you in a few words. In the first place, I am much gratified by the estate left me by Cluvius. You ask me why I sent for Chry- Bippus ? The reason was, that two tenements of mine are fallen to the ground, and I have others in such a shattered condition, that not only the inhabitants, but the very rats' have left them. This would give many people pain, but it does not give me so much as a tho jght. O Socrates % and ye disciples of Socrates, never can I express what I owe you. Immortal gods, with what un- concern do I regard sublunary things! Mean- while I have, by the advice, and upon the plan, of Vestorius, set about rebuilding them in such a manner, as to turn the loss to my advantage. We > We see here the vulgar notion prevailed even in Cicero's time, that the rats always left a falling house. 2 If the rant in this passage is not ironical, as I am apt to think it is^ it shows our author in a very ridicutous light. 204 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATtlCUS. 205 We have a great deal of company here, and, by what I understand, we shall have more. Amongst others, are our two pretended consuls elect Good God ! Tyranny is alive, while the tyrant is dead. We rejoice at his death, while we adopt his measures. How cutting, and yet how just, is the accusation which Marcus Cur^- tins alleges against us ! Well may we be ashamed tOvlive. For would not a thousand deaths be preferable to what we suffer, and to what we must suffer, heaven knows how long? Balbus is here, and we spend a great deal of time toge- ther. Vetus has sent him a letter the last of December, informing him, that when he had sur- rounded Caecilius ^ and had him in his power ; Pacorus, the Parthian, came with a great ar^ny and rescued him, and that Vetus had lost a great many men, the blame of which he lays upon Vol- catius. Thus I think war is unavoidable in that quarter. Dolabella and Nicias' should look t# this. Balbus has other letters from Gaul written one and twenty days ago, with better news than we had reason to look for ; that the Germans, and the otlier nations there, having heard of Caesars death, had sent deputies to Aurelius, ^'ho is lieutenant to Hirtius in those parts, with assurances * . t ' He was surnained Bassus, and escaping from the battle of Pharsalia he made head against Caesar's party in Syria. ^ He was a great friend of Dolabella. "^ assurances of entire submission on their part^. In short, every thing is calm there, which is very different from the accounts I had from our bald- pated friend. EPISTLE X. Is it really so ? Has all that has been done by our common Brutus, come to this, that he should live at Lanuvium, and Trebonius^ repair by de- vious marches to his government ! That all the -actions, writings, words, promises, and purposes, of Caesar, should carry with them more force than they would have done, had he been alive ^? You may remember what loud remonstrances I made the very first day we met in the capitol, that the senate should be summoned thither by the 1 He w^as the only consular who was engaged in the con- iipiracy against Caesar^ who gave him the government of the lesser Asia. 2 The case was this. Antony having obtained under the speci- ous pretence of keeping the veteran troops quiet, that Caesar's acts should be confirmed, made a very bad use of this decree of the senate ; for Caesar kept a register, in which be entered all Ills' grants, promises, and other public deeds, and which Antony brought the senate, or at least the majority of them, to look upon as a kind of record, which was to serve them as a direc- tion for making those acts good. Meanwhile he made him- «elf master of this register, and at the same time, gained over Faberius, Casar's secretary, by whose hands all his acts were entered; W'' ^06 CICEROS EPISTLES the praetors ^ Immortal gods ! What might we not have then carried amidst the universal joy of our patriots, and even our half patriots, and the general rout of those robbers. You disap- prove of what was done on the 1 8th of March, but what could be done? We were undone be- fore that day. Do not you remember you called out that our cause was ruined, if Caesar had a public funeraP? But a funeral he had, and that too in the Forum, and graced with pathetic en- comiums, which encouraged slaves and beggars, with flaming torches in their hands, to burn our houses. Wiiat followed ? Were they not inso- lent enough to say, " Caesar issued the command and you must obey ?" I cannot bear tliese and other things, I therefore think of retiring, and leaving behind me country after country : and even your entered: so that it was easy to forge whatever he had a mind. By those practices, and by seizing the treasure laid up by Casar, he amassed upwards of six millions sterling, and had his appli- cation to business been equal to his parts and abilities, he might easily have succeeded to all Caesar*s power. ^ The praetors were Brutus and Cassius. This was truly a very patriot advice of Cicero, and had it been taken, must have certainly had great consequences in favour of public liberty; because it was, in effect, disowning the power of the consuls, that had been nominated by Casar, and whose business it was to summon together the senate ; but upon a failure of the con- suls, it belonged to the praetors to issue the summons. * Atticus was in the right to oppose this funeral, for it was the first thing that disconcerted the measures %i the conspira- tors for the causes there mentioned. TO ATTICUS. 207 your favourite Greece is too much exposed to the political storm to continue in it^ Meanwhile, has your complaint quite left you ? Fori have some reason to believe, by your manner of writing, that it has. But I return to the The- bassi, the Scaevoe, and the Frangones \ Do you imagine that they will think themselves secure in their possessions, whilewe stand our ground, and experience has taught them, that we have not in us the courage which they imagined. Are we to look upon those to be the friends of peace, who have been the fomenters of rebellion ? What I wrote to you concerning Curtilius, and the estates of Sestilius, I apply to Censorinus, Mes- sala, Plancus, Posthumius, and the whole clan. , It would have been better to perish with the slain, than to have lived to witness things like these'. Octavius came to Naples about the l6th, where * I have here adopted the ingenious interpretation of Earnest. t'rrnvtfxios is an epithet of y^ proceeding, and not to be connected with the subsequent nausea. The whole passage should be thus punctuated. Itaque ym tr^o yuj cogito: tua tamen IwniMos, Nausea jamne plane ahiit ? — E. * These were all subalterns and creatures of Caesar, as were the others mentioned in this paragraph. ^ I think, in the common reading, there is here some defici- ency, or rather, contradiction, in the sense. Monsieur Mongault reads this passage. Melius fuit periisse illo interfecto, quod num," quam accidesset, quavi hcec videre, and he translates it accord- ingly. But I like the reading of Gronovius better. Quod utu nam ios CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 209 ^here Balbus waited upon him next morning, and from thence he came to me at Cumse, tl?e same day, where he acquainted me, that he would accept of the succession to his uncle's estate. But this as vou observe, may be the source of a warm dispute between him and Antony. I shall bestow all due attention and pains upon your atfair at Burthrotum. You ask me whether the legacy left me by Cluvius, will amount to a hundred thousand sertcces a year. It will amount pretty near it, but this first year I have laid out eighty thousand upon repairs. My brother complains greatly of his son, who, he gays, is now excessively complaisant to his mo- ther, though he hated her, at a time, when she deserved his respects. He has sent me flaming letters against him. If you have not yet left Rome, and if you know what he is doing, I beg you will inform me by a letter, as indeed, you must do of every thing else, for your letters give m^ tlie greatest pleasure. EPISTLE XL The day Ijefore yesterday I sent you a long let- ter and I now set down to answ^er your last. I feel nam accidissef, ' I am not, however, positive on either side, and have translated it in a manner not inconsistent with either read- I ^ feel the most earnest desire that Brutus would come ^ to Astura. You complain of the extravagance of Caesar s partisans ; but can that surprise you? For my part, I wonder they are not more extravagant than they are. I ought, indeed, to laugh at such \hings, and yet I lose all patience in reading the speech^ in which he is stiled so great a man, and so eminent a citizen. But mark what I say; a taste for these panegyrics is thus cherished among the people, to the destruction of our friends, who ought rather to be deemed gods than heroes, and whose glory, though eternal, must still be accompanied with envy, nay with danger. But they enjoy a noble consolation, the consciousness of having performed a great and a glorious action. But what have we, to comfort us, since the tyrant is dead, without our recovering our liberty ? But let fortune deter- mine all, since reason has no authority. What you write concerning my son gives me great satisfaction; I hope it will continue. As to your care in supplying him plentifully with the means of subsisting and appearing genteelly, I am extremely obliged to you for it, and 1 beg you » The speech here mentioned, was either tfiat of Octavius or Antony, or some of their followers, who now took all opportu- nities of displaying the virtues and amiable qualities of Csesari and the harangues produced the effects here mentiontd. Vol. III. P \ N ^- 210 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ?11 you will continue it. You are in the right, as to your measures about the affair of Buthroturn, to which I shall give a particular attention. I shall even undertake for the success, as I per- ceive it to be daily more and more practicable. As to the estste I received from Cluviis, (be- cause I see you are more solicitous about my affairs than 1 am myself) you must know, it exceeds the annual income of a hundred thou- sand serteces. The dilapidations have not hurt the estate; I know not whether they will not make it better. I have herewith me Balbus, Hirtius, and Pansa. Octavius, who seems to put himself entirely under my direction, is just arrived at the house of my neighbour Philippus. Lentulus Spinther passes this day with me, and leaves us to-morrow mornmcr. EPISTLE XIL A FEAR my Atticus that all we have reaped from the Ides of March, is but the short-lived joy of having punished him, whom we have hated as the author of our sufferings. What news do I hear from Rome ! What management do I see here ! It was indeed, a glorious action, but it was left imperfect. You know how much I love the Sicilians, and how much I thought myself ho- noured in being their patron. Caesar (and I was was glad of it) did tliem many favours, thougjh granting them the privileges of Latium was more ]th^ could be well borne. However, I said no- thiwg even to that. But here comes Antony, who for a large sum of money, produces a law past by the dictatQr in an assembly of the peo- ple, by which all Sicilians are made denizens of Rome, an act neye^ once heard of in the dicta- tor's lifetime. Is not the case of our friend De- ^oXarus almost the same ? There is no throne which he does not deserve, but not through the interest of Fulvia \ I could give you a thousand sucl^i insta.nces. Tins far, however, your pur- pose may be served. Your affair of Buthroturn is so clear, so well attested, and so just, that it is impossible for you to fail in obtaining part of your claim, and, the rather, as Antony has suc- ceeded in many things of the same kind. Octavius lives here with me, upon a very ho- nourable and friendly footing. His own domes- tics call him by the name of Caesar ; but his step- father Philip does not, neither do I, for that rea- son. I deny that he can be a good citizen ; he is surrounded by so many that breathe destruction to our friends, and who swear vengeance against what they have done. What is your opinion will be the conseqqences, when the boy shall go to 1 She was the wife of Antony, and daughter to ClodiuS;, Cicero's principal enemy. P 2 212 CICERO^S EPISTLES to Rome, where our deliverers cannot live in safety? It is true, they must be glorious, and even happy, from the consciousness of what they have done. But we, who are delivered, if I mis- take not, must still remain in a state of despica- ble servitude. I therefore long to go where the news of such deeds ^ can never reach my ears. I hate even those appointed consuls, who have forced me so to declaim, that even Baiae " was no retreat for me. But this was owing to my too great condescension. It is true, there was a time^ when I was obliged to submit to such things, but now it is otherways, whatever may be the event of public measures. It is long since I had any thing to write to you, and yet I am still writing, not that my let- ters give me pleasure, but that I may provoke you to answer them. I write this on the 21st of April, being at dinner at the house of Vestorius, who is no good logician, but I assure you, an ex- cellent accountant*. EPISTLE ^ Cicero here quotes the two first words of a verse of Acclus, Nee Pelopidaram J'actay nequefamam audiam. It is recited again at full length. Lib. xv. 11. — E. ^ To which the Romans retired in the same manner as the EniOyoto, TO ATTICUS. 215 tune, which sways more than reason does in such affairs. All my concern is, that whatever be the event I bear it witli fortitude and composure, and this is what lies in every mans power by reflecting that man is liable to casualties and changes. With these impressions I may still find some relief from reading, and a great deal in reflecting upon tliQ ides of March. I will now lay before you the difficulties that perplex me; so many reasons occuring for eithef part of the question. I am now, as I proposed, to set out upon my legation for Greece. It is true, I may thereby have a chance of escaping the danger of the threatened massacre, but at the same time, I must incur the reproach of abandon- ing my country in the day of her distress. Now, supposino; that I stay in Italy; I shall indeed ex- pose myself to danger, bat I may happen to do service to the state. On the other hand, I have private reasons for going abroad. I think, I could be of great service in completing my sons educa- tion at Athens, should I go thither, and indeed, this was the only motive that determined me to solicit a legation from Caesar. You will therefore, consider this affair, in the same friendly manner as you do every thing, that you think concerns me. I now return to your letter. You tell me, it is reported, that I am about to sell my estate near the lake Lucrinus ; and that I am to make over at an 216 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 217 an extravagant price, my little country seat, to my brother Quintus', that, as his son tells you, he may carry thither his bride Aquillia. For my part, I have no thoughts of any sich sale, unless I find somewhat that pleases mebetter. As to my brother, he does not trouble himself about any purchase at this time ; for he meets with sufficient difficulty in refunding Attica's fortune, in \>hichhe owns himself to be under great obligations to Egnatius. As to any tlioughts of marrying, he is so far from it, that lie declares he thinks no pleasure equal to that of sleeping alone. — But enough of this. I am now to return to the subject of our MTetch- ed, or rather annihilated, government. Antony has written to me concerning the recalling Sextus Clodius* froni banishment. I send you a copy of his letter, in which you may see with what res- pect he treats me, but at the same time, you must readily conclude his request to be so abandoned, so scandalous, and so pernicious, that we are tempted to wish that Caesar u ere again alive. For what Caesar never would have done, never would have suffered to be even proposed, he is now pro- posing from Caesar's forged journals. For my part, I most cheerfully yielded to Antony's request, which he would have carried through, even though I had ^ He had been by this time divorced from the sister of Atti- cus. • He was the freedman, and instrument of Publius Clodius in all his outrages agajaat our author. I I had opposed it, since he has now persuaded himself, tliat he may do what he pleases, for which reason 1 send you a copy of my answer. Antony Consul to Marcus Cicero, mshet\ Prosperity* JLt was owing to my hurry of business, and your sudden departure, that I did not address you in person upon the subject of this letter; and I am therefore apprehensive, that you will treat my re- quest with the less regard in my absence. It will, however, give me pleasure, if your goodness shall answer the high opinion I have always en- tertained of vou. I asked, and obtained from Caesar the restitution of Sextus Clodius, I was even at that time determined to make use of this indulgence no farther than it was agreeable to you, and I now wish more than ever, that you would give me your consent to carry it into execution. But should you appear insensible of his wretched, undone situation, never shall I put myself in com- petition with you. And yet, methinks it is my duty to support the register of Caesar. And if in- deed you would oblige me by a wise, humane, and amiable act, you will concur with my request, and convince that excellent and hopef d youth Publius Clodius that when it was in your power, you did not gratify your resentment against the friends of his father. Let 218 CICERO'S EPISTLES Let me beg of you, to make it evident to the world, that you differed with the father only up- on a patriot-principle. Continue no longer the foe of his family. For, we can with more dignity, and more ease, lay aside resentments contracted on account of our country, than those arising from personal motives. Let me, in short, prevail with you to suffer me to form the boy to this principle, and to implant it in his mind now sus- ceptible of the impression, that enmities ought not to be handed down to posterity. It is true, Sir, I am entirely sensible, that no danger can come near your fortune ; yet do I believe, that you would choose your old age should be accom- panied with dignity and ease, raiher than with toil and trouble. Let me add, that I have of myself a kind of right to solicit you for this fa- vour ; since I have left nothing unattempted to serve you. If I cannot obtain this favour of you, I shall not extend it to Clodius, that you may be sensible how powerful your authority is with me, and for that consideration suffer yourself to be softened. Cicero to Antony Consul^ msheth prosperity. JL HERE is one reason why I wish you had trea- ted with me in person, rather than by letter, for then you might have discerned the affection I bear TO ATTICUS. fl^ bear you, not only by the expression of my lips, but by the emotions of my countenance. You en- deared yourself to me first by your attachment, end next by your services to my person ; and your public behaviour, at this period, has been such as sets you equal with any man alive in my es- teem. Your letter, which is so full of respect and love for me, has affected me in such a man- ner, that I seem not to bestow but to receive a favour, since your request is attended with an as- surance, that, unless I give you leave, you will not deliver even an old friend, because he is my enemy, while at the same time, you might effect his deliverance without danger or difficulty to yourself. As to myself, my Antony, I sacrifice my resent- ment to you, acknowledging at the same time the obligations you have laid me under by your most polite and respectful letter. Had the matter been of far greater importance, I should have thought myself bound to resign myself entirely to your request, but, in this case, I likewise gratify my own disposition and natural temper. I never harboured, within my breast, any spirit of re- venge, nor did I ever extend resentment or seve- rity, farther than the good of my country absolute- ly required. Let me add, that Sextus Clodius never experienced from me any instances of spite and resentment ; for it has ever been a maxim with mC; tliat we ought not to persecute the friends of no CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 221 of our enemies, especially those of an inferior sort, for fear of taking such supports froui our- selves. As to young Clodi.is, it is, I think, your duty to season his mind, which, as you observe, is now susceptible of impressions, with such principles as may give him no room to think, tlmt there is now any variance between our families. In my contest with his father, I acted for my country, and he for himself It is long since the public decided upon our controversies,, and were he now alive, I should consider him no longer as my enemy. Therefore as you declare that you will not, without my leave, carry this measure into execution, though what you request is in your own power; I beg, if you think proper, that you will make my compliance a compliment to the young Clodius likewise. I am too old, and he is too young, for me to suspect danger from him, nor can I be apprehensive of any competition in dignity ; but it is in order that you and I may be more intimate than we have hitherto been. For while those enmities interposed, your heart was more open than your doors. But of this enough. — I conclude with assuring you, that I shall always, with the greatest readiness and zeal, execute whatever I think can give you pleasure, or can do you service, and of this I beg you will l>e thoroughly convinced. EPISTLE I' I EPISTLE XIV. X HAT sound again^ ! Our nephew crowned with garlands at the Parilia!— What! crowned at the shows celebrated in honour of Caesar! — How say you, was he alone ? But you mention Lamia too, and that surprises me ! But I long to know who besides wore crowns; none I am sure but the un- principled. You will therefore give me a parti- cular detail of the whole. You must know that it happened after I had dispatched a pretty long letter to you, on the 2.5th, that not quite three hours after I received one from you, and one too of great consequence. Be assured that your fa- cetiousness respecting the Vestorian heresy, and the sharks^ that swarm on the shore of Puteoli, made ^ I have taken, I hope, a justifiable liberty in translating this passage, which our author has taken from Paucuvius.- For I have translated by a hemistich of our English Paucuvius Shake- spear, of the very same import. The original is, Iterandura eadem ista mihi. 2 There is a great deal of trifling in the conjectures of com- mentators about the original of this passage, the true reading of which is now irretrievable, and, if it were not, it would be perhaps next to impossible to come at the wit. It is sufficient to observe, that Vestori us being a banker, profit was probably all his religion, for which reason our author calls him a heretic, and there app ars to be some kind of a jmgle intended between the Puteal, which wa?? a kind of exchange for bankers and mer- chants at Ronae^ aad Puteoli the place where Vestorius then resided. 223 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS, SS3 made me laugh heartily, but now to public mat- ters. So — ^you take up the defence of the Bruti and of Cassii, as if I had impeached them, while, at the same time, I want words to express my regard for them. What I sent you was a detail of facts, and not an impeachment of persons. 1 tell you again, that the tyrant is removed, and yet the tyranny remains. His successors in power, as in the case of Clodius, are doing what he would not have attempted. Yes, I can answer for it, that so far from doing it himself, he would not have suffered it to have been done by others. We shall next hear of the recall of Rufio, the anta- gonist of Vestorius, and of Victor who never was mentioned in Caesar's register, and of as many as Antony shall please. For who can we say will not? I say this is acting in obedience to the writ- ings of that man, to w^hose person we disdain sub- jection. Let me ask you, how could one have avoided assisting in the senate, on the 18th of May? But supposing it had been optional for us to be present or absent \ after we were there, could we have delivered * Monsieur Mongault seems not to have comprehended the meaning of Cicero in this expression. The original is. Nam Uheralihus qids potuit in senatum non venire? Fac id potuisse aliquo modo: num, etiam cumvenissemus, libera potuimus sen^ tentiam dicere ? He translates it, Quant a Vassemllie du dix' hiiit delivered our sentiments with freedom ? Must we not have fallen upon every measure to have grati- fied the veteran troops, who surrounded the se- nate house in arms, while we were defenceless? You know that I was against our party's retreat into the capitol, and what followed. But wa« that the fault of our friends the Bruti? No, it was the fault of others, who, though destitute of sense, look upon tliemselves as possessed of cir- cumspection and wisdom. All of them thought it enough to rejoice, some congratulated, but none staid to support the action. But enough of what is past. Let all our care and interest be employ- ed to defend our deliverers. Let us take your ad- vice in reflecting with pleasure on the ides of March, which has opened to our heroic deliverers the gates of immortality, but not of liberty to the Roman people. Remember your own admonition. Remember how loudly you called out, that all was ruined if the body of Csesar should be publicly buried. This, as the consequences have shewn, was the remonstrance of a w ise man. You write to me, that Antony will, on the 1st of June, make a motion concerning the pro- vinces, and that he himself may have the two Gauls, and his government of both prorogued be- yond huit de Mars, qui pquvoii se dispenser d'aller an senat ? Mais je suppose que nous feussions pu, quand unefois nous y avons ^ti, avons^nous pu opiner librement? But it requires little reflec- tion to observe, that this translation implies some contradiction. \ 224 CICERO S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 225 yond the le^al term\ Let me ask you, can I speak my mind freely upon this (question? If I Can, I shall rejoice at the recovery of public liberty. If I cannot, what benefit have I reaped from this change of masters, but the pleas ire of seeing a tyrant meet with the death he de- served ? You tell me, that the temp e ^ of Ops^ has been plundered. That is no more than I had foreseen^ Well it must be owned, that glorious were the hands which broke our fetters, and yet we are not free. Thus, they have the glory, and we the blame ; and yet you encourage me to write a history of these times. It must con- sist only of a detail of their crimes who still hold us in bondage ; nor shall I be able not to censure even those men, whose testaments you have wit- nessed in my favour ? I am not, indeed, moved by the love of gain. But it is an unpleasant task to reflect upon those, however culpable, from whom I have received personal favours. But, as you write to me, I shall be able to de- termine 1 One of the best of Caesar's acts was his limiting the term of a praetorian government to one year, and that of a consular to two at most. Antony, who knew the conseqaence of Deci- mus Brutus being governor of the Cisalpine Gaul, wanted to have that government to himself, and to set side Caesar's act. « Where Antony found near six millions sterling ready mo- ney, which had been laid up there by Caesar for ihe Parthiaji war. U tei^mine more certainly upon the whole plan of my conduct by the 1st of June. On that day I will assist in the senate, and employ all my inte- rest and all my abilities, (I mean assisted by your advice, your influence, and the obvious justice of the thing itself), to obtain a decree of the senate concerning the affairs of Buthrotum, according to the terms you propose in your letter* You de- sire me to reconsider my resolution of going into Greece. Well, I will think of it, though in my last letter, I recommended it as the subject of your consideration. Meanwhile, you are as libe- ral in reinstating your neighbours, the Massilians^, in all their privileges, as if our country had al- ready recovered her liberty. But, let me tell you, that it is not our authority, but our arms, that must restore us to freedom, and whether they be strong enough to effect this, I know not. EPISTLE XV. JL OUR last short letter gave me sensible pleasure from what Brutus wrote to Antony, and neaar things begin to wear a much better aspect than heretofore. * Probably their ambassadors lodged near Atticus at Rome, and they had been severely treated by Casar for thdir opposJi- tion to him. Vio. III. Q 226 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 227 heretofore. But, it is now time for nie to consi- der where I am, or whither 1 intend to go. My friend Dolabella has acted most nobly ; yes I call him my friend, though I hitherto have hesitated to rank him in that number. Some he threw from the rock — others he nailed to a cross — the pillar he demolished and the area he ordered tobepaved'. All, in a word, was heroic. To me he seems to have put an end to every pretext of mourning ' for Caesar, which till then daily gained ground, and must at last have, I apprehend, terminated in a manner fatal to those who destroyed the tyrant. Now, I agree to what you write in your letter ; I now hope for better days, and yet, I cannot endure those . * As soon as Antony had left Rome, to make sure of the ve- terans of the army, who lay dispersed in the country of Italy, the lower kind of people erected an altar and a pillar to Caesar*s memory, and were guilty of such outrages as were very threat- ening to the friends of liberty. But Dolabclla demolished both the altar and the pillar, and threw those votaries who were citi- zens of Rome, from the Tarpeian rock. - Orig. Sirnulationcm desiderii. Monsieur Mongault trans- lates this, Ce regret que le peuple paroissoit avoir de la mort de C(ssar. And Dr. Middleton in his Life of Cicero, having occa- sion to translate part of this epistle, translates this passage by the wofds, " All appearance of regret for Caesar." But neither of those gentlemen has expressed our author's meaning. The fact was, that the most needy and abandoned part of Rome pre- tended a might)' veneration for the memory of Caesar, and un- der that pretence, met together at this place of devotion j where, in reality, they consulted together how they might rob and mur- der the men of property, which they very often did, as we per- ceive from our author and other w riters. those, who, while they pretend to be for peace, are defending the most nefarious deeds. But eve- ry thing is not to be had at once. Matters are much more fayourably changed than I imagined, nor will I leave this place, till you advise me, that I may do it with honour. You may depend upon my being wanting in no respect to our friend Brutus. Had I no man- ner of connection with him, I would serve him for his unrivalled, his amazing, virtue. Being to set out for Pompeii on the first of May, I leave my house under the care of my friend Pilia, and all that is in it. How earnestly do I wish that you could persuade Brutus to come to Astura ? EPISTLE XVI. 1 WRITE this letter, just as I am going on board an open boat from the gardens of Clavius, after delivering over to Pilia, the charge of my house near the lake, my workmen, and my agents. As for myself, I this very day threatened to partake with PieUis in his plain fare. A few days hence^ I design to go to Pompeii, from whence I will sail back to the delightful regions of Puteoli and Cu- mse. What pleasurable spots these would be, did not crowds of company break in and almost drive me from them. Q 2 9ut 223 CICERO'S EPISTLES But to come to business. How great is the exploit which my friend Dolabella has per- formed ! What a lovely prospect has it opened ! Well never can I sufficiently praise and encou- rage him to proceed. It gives me pleasure, that in all your letters, you intimate your sentiments of the action, and of the person who performed it. Trust me, my friend, Brutus might carry through the Forum, even a crown of gold upon his head; for who durst offer violence to him, while the fear of the rock and the cross is before their eyes, especially as the punishment was inflicted amidst such applauses and such rejoicings, of even the lower classes of the people ? Now, my friend, you must take care to fit me out for Greece, a journey I am extremely desirous to perform, as soon as I have fully completed my engagements to our friend Brutus. It is of great consequence to my son, or rather to me, indeed, to both of us, that I should superintend his studies in person. For, give me leave to ask you, what is there in that letter of Leonidas which you sent to me, that ought to give me such mighty joy ? The reserve, he makes use of in praising my son, in my opinion, renders his commendation very imperfect. ^' At present," says he, '* this is not the language of as- surance, but of apprehension of what may hap- pen hereafter." Now, though I charged lierodes that he should write me a minute account of every thing, yet I have not as yet had one line from him. TO ATTICUS. 229 him. This, lam afraid, is owing to his having no- thing to write, which he thinks would give me plea- sure. I am extremely obliged to you for writing to Zeno. Both my duty and my character require, that my son should want for nothing, I understand, that Flamma Flaminius is at Rome ; I have written to him, that I have sent to desire you to talk with him upon the affair of Montanus. I beg you will take care, that my letter be delivered to him, and that you will con- verse with him at your leisure. I think, if the man has any shame in him at all, he will take care that other people do not in any respect suffer for him. I am extremely obliged to you for not telling me, that your daughter w^as in- disposed, before you acquainted me of her reco- very. EPISTLE XVTI. 1 CA^iE to Pompeii the 3d of May, the day after I delivered up to Pilia the charge of my house at Cumae, as I wrote you before. While" I was at supper there, I received a letter which you sent by Demetrius the freedman, the 30th of last month. In that letter you specify many wise pre- cautions. But, as you rightly observe, these measures may be unavailing, since caprice and fortune have now so much influence in all mat- ters. 230 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 231 ters. Wc will, therefore, take a farther oppor- tunity when we meet together, to consult of those things. It would be of great service to your bu- ainess at Buthrotum, if I could by any means speak with Antony. But I am afraid, he will not turn out of his road for Capua, and that his journey thither, may prove to be the destruction of his country \ Lucius Caesar, whom yesterday I saw very much indisposed at Naples, was of the same sentiments. Therefore, we must delay to treat or conclude any thing on your affair, till the 1st of June. But so much for that. The younger Quintus has written in most op- probrious terms to his father, who received his letter just as I arrived at Pompeii. He be- gins with telling him, that he shall never be able to endure his step-mother Aquillia. In this, per- haps, he may not be so much in the wrong, but what will you say to what follows? He tells them, that he had every thing from Caesar, no- thing from his father; that he depends upon Antony for the rest of his fortune. How lost to a sense of decency ! But let him see to it. I have written to our friend Brutus, to Cassius, and to Dolabella. ' Inclosed you have copies of the several letters I sent to them, not that I am in any kind of doubt, whether they are proper to * Antony went to Capua, in order to bring the veteran troops, whom CaDsar had settled thereabouts, into his measures. to be delivered to them, for I am quite satisfied as to that, but because I hope to obtain your approbation. Suffer me, my friend, to give you the trouble of supplying my son with what money you think proper, and I am extremely obliged to you for all your past favours in that respect. I have not yet tinished to my mind the work which I think proper not to publish \ As to the additions wiiich you want should be made to them, they will require a separate volume. For my part, and 1 believe, you may depend on what I say, I am of opinion there was less danger iti talking of those detestable measures while the tyrant was alive, than there is now that he is dead. For though I know not how it happened, he bore with wonderful patience, all I said to him \ At present, we cannot stir without being called to submit not only to what Caesar did, but what he designed to do. As Flamma is at Rome, you will i Orig. avix^oToy. Dion say?, that Cicero left this book sealed up in the hands of his son, with a charge that it should not be opened before his death ; but Monsieur Mongault thinks, that this is improbable from what our author sa} s in this place. 2 We have many instances of the great liberties which Caesar indulged cur author in, particulatly in breaking upon him several cutting jests 5 but Csesar was secure in the supe- riority of his own genius, which was not tne case with his successors. 2SS CICERO^S EPISTLES will look after Montanus. I think the affair at present is in a more promising state. Cicero to his Friend Dolabella Consul^ mslieth Health, XT is true, my Dolabella, that I felt interested in the glory you have lately acquired, and it gave me a great degree of joy and pleasure ; yet I cannot help acknowledging, that my transport exceeded all measure, when I understood that the public voice pointed me out as the partner of your merits. I meet with nobody (for you must know, I see a great deal of company here, be-' cause many excellent persons resort to this neigh- bourhood on account of their health, not to mention the great number of my friends from the municipal cities) who, after extolling you to the skies, in the most honourable terms, im- mediately express their unfeigned obligation to me. They tell me, they are convinced, that in consequence of compliance with my precepts and counsels, you are become an excellent patriot, and an incomparable consul. Now, though I could with great justice tell them, that what you do is the result of your own judgment, and your own inclination, without standing in need of counsel from any man ; yet I neither heartily join TO ATTICUS. 235 join with them, for fear of detracting from your merit, if all you do should sppear to be the ef- fect of my counsels, nor am I very forward in contradicting them. For you must know, that the love of praise is my predominant failing And yet, let me tell you, your dignity receives no diminution in that which was held to be an honour to Agamemnon himself, the king of kings, to have a Nestor to direct him in his counsels. With regard to myself, I esteem it a glory, that young as you are, you make so exalted a ligure as a consul, and that you are deemed to be the pupil of my cares. -♦ When I paid a visit to Lucius Caesar, whom I found indisposed at Naples, and tortured with pain in every part of his frame, yet before our first compliments were over, '' O my Cicero, said he, I congratulate you upon having so much influence over Dolabella. Had I as much over my nephew ', all might yet be well with us, and jour country. As to your Dolabella, I congratu- late him, and I thank him. He is the only man 5ince the days of your consulate, whom I really can call a consul." He then talked much jof what you had done, and the measures you had executed. That never was there any thing 4one more magnanimously, more gloriously, or more for the service of our country, and th« public "* Meaning Antony, who was son to JuJia, sister to Lucius C^sar. 234 CICERO'S EPISTLES public unanimously agree in the same senti- ments. Give me leave, therefore, to beg of you, that you will allow me to avail myself of this unmerited claim to the praise which belongs to you, and that you will suffer me in some degree to become a partaker of your fame. Yet, after all, jesting apart, my dear Dola- bella, if I have acquired any glory, I would more willingly transfer the whole of it to you, than deprive you of the smallest portion. You are sensible how much I have ever loved you, but your late behaviour has raised my affection to the highest ailRur. For, believe me, my friend, virtue is the fairest, it is the brightest, it is the loveliest object of human passion. You know, how dearly I have always loved Marcus Brutus, on account of his elevated genius, his amiable manners, his matchless probity and re- solution, yet the love I bore him, received such an addition from the ides of March, that I won- dered how a passion, which to me seemed long before at its highest pitch, could admit of ad- vance. AVho could have thought, that my affec- tion for you could have been capable of increase? Yet so much is it increased, that Avhat I feel for you now is love, and all before seems only to have been esteem. Need I then to exhort you to persevere in the paths of dignity and glory ? Need I, like those who deal in exhortations, place before your eyes the examples of illustrious heroes, TO ATTICUS. 235 heroes, since I know none more illustrious than yourself? You have now none but yourself to imitate, none but yourself to exceed. After the glorious actions you have performed, you are not, Sir, at liberty to be unlike yourself To ex- hort you, therefore, is unnecessary. Give me leave, rather to congratulate you, upon a thing, which, 1 believe, is unprecedented, namely, that the extreme severity of the punishment, so far from being odious, was even popular, and gave pleasure to every description of citizens, from the m'ost illustrious and the most wealthy, to the poorest and most obscur(# Had this been owing to fortune, I should have complimented you upon your felicity, but it was owing to the greatness of your soul, your genius and your w isdom ; for you must know, that 1 have read your address to the people. Nothing surely was ever better composed. So gradually do you open the mo- tives of your action, so artfully do you close it, that all must allow the offence to be ripe for the punishment you inflicted. You, therefore, have freed the city from dan- ger, and her government from dread, by an ac- tion not only meritorious at this time, but deserv- ing of being transmitted as an example to future a^yes ; an action which ought to make you sensi- ble that the government now rests upon you, and that you are not only to protect, but to dis- tinguish those heroes who gave rise to our reco- vered '256 CICERO'S EPISTLES vercd liberty. But in a day or two, I hope to see you in person, and to talk with you more fully upon tiiese matters. As you have saved us and your country, I >eg, my dearest Dolabella, that you would take the most tender care of yourselt^ EPISTLE XVIII. A s you frequently censure me for the exagge- rated praises I have bestowed upon Dolabella's actions, I must be"o observe, that though I think his conduct highly meritorious, yet the manner in which you repeatedly wrote to me concerning him, induced me to extol it in the manner I did. But you are disgusted at Dola- bella, for the very same reason which has in- curred my cordial resentment. What a shameless fellow he is ! My money was due the first of January, and he has not paid it yet, though he could free himself from an immense load of debt by the liberality of Faberius, who usually supplies him on all necessary occasions \ I indult^e in 1 There is something here that looks very hke what we call a conundrum in English. The original is, Opem ah eo peiieriL That is. He sought assistance from him. But the wit lies in the similarity of Opem to the accusative of Ops the goddess, in whose temple Caesar's money was deposited, of which Dola- bella received a large share. TO ATTICUS. 237 in such pleasantries, to shew you that I am not too much grieved at heart. On the 8th I wrote to him early in the morning; and, that very evening, I received at Pompeii your letter so soon as the third day after its date ; but^ as I wrote to you that same day, I sent a pretty sharp letter to Dolabella, which, I believe, if it has no other effect, will have that of making him not dare to look me in the face. I suppose you have finished that affkir with Albius. You have highly obliged, by enabling me, to discharge the ^debt I owed Patulcius. Your comiuct in this respect is in unison with your otmt acts of friendship to me. I left Eros at Rome, as well qualified to transact that business ; and things have miscar- ried on this occasion by his culpable negligence. But I will forbear till I see him. 1 beg you will direct the affair of Montanus, as I have often desired you to do by my letters. I am not at all surprised that Servius, when he was leaving Rome, talked to you, as if public aff'airs were desperate, for he cannot have a worse opinion of them than I have. If our worthy friend Brutus shall not assist in the se- nate on the first of June, I know not to what purpose he should appear in public at all But he is the best judge of his own conduct. From the measures which I see going on, 1 cannot think that the ides of March have greatly im- proved our situation. For this reason I feel every day 238 CICERO'S EPISTLES day more inclined to Avithdraw into Greece. For I cannot see how it is in my power to serve the interest of my dear Brutus, who, as you write to me, thinks of going into voluntary banish- ment I am not quite satisfied with a letter I have re- ceived from Leonidas. I agree with you as to Herodes. I wish I had seen the letter of Sau- feius. I think of setting out from Pompeii the 10th of May. EiklLE XIX. On the seventh of May, when I was at Pom- peii, I received two letters from you, the one on the sixtli, and the other on the fourth day after its date. I begin with the former. I am greatly pleased that Barnaeus has delivered my letters so opportunely. You have acted like yourself with Cassius. It happened luckily, that four days be- fore I received your letter, I wrote to him in the very terms you point out to me, and I have sent to you a copy of my letter. But at the very time I was driven to the greatest despair by the in- solvency of Dolabella \ as you call it, I received a letter from Brutus, and anotlier from you. Brutus ^ Monsieur Mongault thinks that Cicero is in jest here, which I much doubt of, because, in the preceding letter, lie u very much in earnest upon tliis head. TO ATTICUS. 239 Brutus thinks of going into a voluntary exile \ For my part I shall steer to another harbour*, better suited to my time of life. Before I enter it, I could wish to see our friend Brutus happy, and our constitution established. But at pre- sent, as you observe, we have no choice left us. For you are of my opinion, that nothing is more unsuitable than war, especially a civil war, is to my time of life. Antony's answer respects only Clodius. He thanks me for my forbearance and clemency, and tells me I shall find great satisfaction in the ex- ercise of these virtues, iftut Pansa ^ appears quite outrageous in regard to Clodius, and like-- wise to Dejotarus, and if we are to believe him, he talks in a very high strain. I do not however think it looks well in him to condemn so violent- ly, as he does, the action of Dolabella. When our nephew was reproached by his father, for being crowned with garlands, he wrote him back in answer, that he wore a garland, to tes- tify his respect for Caesar, and that he laid it aside to testify his grief. In short, that he look^ ed 1 We must not understand this question literally. Oar au- thor's meaning is, that if Brutus should leave Italy, as Pompey had donej he must never expect to see it again. * Meaning death. 3 Cicero was mistaken in his opinion of this great man^ who was afterwards killed in the battle of Miitina against Antony. •* 5240 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ed upon it as an honour to be reproached for* loving C^^ar even after death. In conformity with your advice, I wrote very particularly to Dolabella, and likewise to Sicca. That is a task I do not impose upon you, because I wish you to stand well with Dolabella. I have reflected upon the words of Servius, and I perceive in them more fear than wisdom, and yet I agree with him, because we are all of us frightened out of our senses. Publilius has trifled with you. For Caerellia ^ came to negotiate with me in their behalf, and I easily persuaded her, that what she requested was^ot only against my inclina- tion, but not within my power. If I should see Antony, I will do the best with him in regard to your business at Buthrotum. I now come to your last letter, though I have already answered every thing concerning Servius, and that I think the achievements of Dolabella to be highly deserving of praise. Indeed I think greater exploits could not have been performed on such an occasion, and at such a juncture. The * We have already observed that our author has been ac- cused of certain levities with this lady, who was considerably older than himself. But I think the passage before us carries with it a strong presumption of his innocence. For had there been any thing criminal between them, she was a very im- proper agent to have been employed in the atfair mentioned here, which was a negociation set on foot by the brother and friends of Cicero's last wife for his taking her back to his fa- mily. 241 "V The praises which I bestowed on him proceeded in a manner from the style in which you wrote to me, though I own myself to be so far of your opinion, that his conduct would be much more praise-worthy if he would remit his debt to me. * I wish that Brutus may come to Astura. You think I am in the right not to come to any de- termination concerning my voyage, before I see how public matters will turn out. I am now of another opinion. I shall however form no reso- lution before I see you. I am pleased with my dear Attica's acknowledgments in behalf of her mother, under whose superintendance I left my house and furniture. I am in hopes of seeing her by the II th of this montk Do you make my compliments to your daughter. Pilia shall experience my aff'ectionate regard. EPISTLE XX. X WENT by water from Pompeii, and reached the house of our friend LucuUus on the 10th, about nine in the evening. I was but just landed when I received your letter of the 7th, which, I was t^d, was brought to Cumae by your express. Next day, about the same hour on which I landed, I received from LucuUus, yours dated from La- VoL. III. R nuvium N 24*2 CICERO'S EPISTLES nuvium on the 9th. To these I sit do^v^l to re- turn an immediate answer. In the first place, I am obliged to you for your exertions in my behalf; for the care you have taken of that payment, and for the aftkir of Al- bianus. Now, with regard to your business at Buthrotum, you must know that when I was at Pompeii, Antony came to Misenum, but left it be- fore I heard of his being there, and went to Sam- nium. Thus you see, that I must meet with him in Rome upon that matter. The speech of Lucius Antonius^ filled me with horror ; that of Dola- bella was noble. He may, for aught I care, keep my money in his own hands, provided he pays me the interest punctually. I am sorry that Tertulla^ has miscarried, for the race of Cassius and Brutus ought to be multiplied. I wish to know farther about the queen of Egypt, and her son Caesario^ Thus much for your first letter, now to your second. When ^ He was brother to Mark Antony ; and tlie harangue mentioned here, was a speech he made to the people for the distribution of certain lands to strengthen his brother's interest amongst the soldiers. , * She was sister to Brutus, and married to Cassius. Her name was Junia j but she was called Tertulla, from her being the third daughter in the family. ' Whom she pretended she had by Caesar j and he was after- wards put to death by command of Augustus. TO ATTICtJS. 243 When i come to Rome, I will, as you advise me, talk to my brother and nephew, and act respecting the affair of Buthrotum. You have obliged me in supplying my son with money* You think I am in the wrong to rest the whole inter- est of our country upoa Brutus alone. But the thing certainly is so. Our country must either be nothing, or she must be saved by him and his friends. You advise me to draw up an harangue and send it to him. Give me leave, my dearest friend, to lay it down as what I think a general rule, on a subject in which I had a pretty- large experience. Never was there a poet or an orator, who thought another man excelled him in his own art\ If this is the case, (as in fact it is), with indifferent poets, what must you suppose of Brutus, who is really a man of genius and learn- ing ? An edict which I wrote for him at your request, furnishes some proof of this assertion. He preferred his own, though in my opinion, mine was preferable. When in compliance with his entreaties I addressed to him a piece upon the best manner of speaking, he wrote, not only to myself, but likewise to you, that he by no means approved of my taste. *' As every man in • love 1 Nothids can be more true than this observation of our author, notwithstanding the affected humility of many great writers. R 2 244 CICEROS EPISTLES love is best pleased with the object of his affec- tion, so every writer finds most gratification in his own compositions \" This is not a very ele- gant quotation ; for it is taken from Attilius, a, stiff and unpolished poet. I wish, however, that Brutus were at liberty to harangue the peo- ple. All would be our own if he could remain at Rome with safety. For he, who would afresh erect the standard of a civil war, will either have no followers, or such as may be easily vanquished. I now come to your third letter. I am greatly pleased that my letters were so agreeable to Brutus and Cassius. I have, therefore, answered theirs. They insist upon my making Hirtius a better patriot; which indeed, I endeavour to do, and he gives me fair assurances. But he lives and dwells with Balbus, who likewise is a fair speaker. We ought to look before we trust either. I perceive you are greatly pleased with Dolabella. For my part, I am charmed with him. I have passed some time at Pompeii with Pansa, who gives me the strongest proof of his having honest and pacific sentiments. I approve of the edict of Brutus and Cassius. You desire that I would bestow some thought in what man- ner they ought to proceed. This, let me tell you, * The original is, Quare sine, quaso, sibi quemque scribere, suafn cuique sponsam, mihi meam, suum cuique amorem, mihi TO ATTICUS. 245 you, depends upon circumstances and contin- gencies, which, as you see, vary every hour. The first action of Dolabella, and this last ha- rangue he made against Antony, have, in my opinion, done much service to the cause of free- dom. Matters are now in a fair way. We are now likely to have a leader', which is the thing mostly wanted by the municipal cities and the patriotic party. Shall you then pretend to quote Epicurus? Have you the presumption to say, " I will not meldle with state matters?" I think the very look of Brutus ought to frighten you out of such a declaration -. You tell me that the younger Quintus is the right hand ' of Antony. We may therefore, through him, easily obtain all we w^ant, and all we wish. If (as you are of opinion he (would » Meaning Dolabella. From the whole strain of this letter, it appears to have been written before the preceding, which hints at Dolabella's being bribed by Antony. 2 This is a fine compliment to Brutus, who, by the bye, is represented on the coins and statues with a very noble open countenance. 3 Orig. Dextella. I have some doubt as to this passage. The manuscripts read Quintus F. If Cicero is serious heite, the F. stands for Frater. If he speaks ironically, it stands for Filius^ and I have translated it in that sense. I hav^ translated DeX" tella, right hand, which is certainly our author's meaning 3 but the commentators, who never choose to deviate from the seve- rity of language, and never make allowance for the familiarities of expression, have given this up as a desperate word. 246 CICERO'S EPISTLES would) Lucius Antonius has produced Octavius before the people, I long to know what kind of a speech he delivered. I am so pressed by the bearer of Cassius's letter, that I write this in a hurry. I now go to pay my compliments *to Pilia, and then I set out in a barge to an enter* tainment made by Vestorius. My compliments to your daughter. EPISTLE XXL ^ vJn the 11th of this month, soon after I had charged the messenger of Cassius with a letter to you, my own express arrived, and, which was very strange, without any letter from you. But I soon conjectured that you must have been at Lanuvium. Now you must know, Eros has dis- patched him in a hurry, that I might the sooner receive Dolabella's letter, which did not, indeed, concern my own affair, (for mine had not yet come to his hand) but was an answer, and a very satisfactory answer it is, to that letter of which I sent you a copy. I had but just sent off Cas- sius's express, when in comes Balbus. It is, indeed, easy to perceive that he is afraid of pub- lic tranquillity. And yet you know he always is very reserved. But he made no secret of An- tony's proceedings. He told me, that he had been TO ATTICUS. 247 been going round to all the veterans, to bring them to approve of Caesar's acts, and to bind them by an oath, to support and maintain them, and that two magistrates should examine .them every month. He likewise complained of the prejudice generally cherished against him, and his whole conversation betrayed his attach- ment towards Antony. He is not, in short, to be depended on. In my opinion, there can be no manner of doubt that a war is inevitable. The action of our friends was manly, but their measures are childish. Who is so blind as not to see, that Caesar has nominated a successor to his power \ Now^ what can be more absurd than to be afraid of one, and not of the other, though, indeed, we live in an age distinguished by political incon- sistencies. For instance, the mother of the chief who armed himself against the tyrant still pos- sesses the Neapolitan estate of Pontius \ I ought frequently to peruse the work, entitled, Cato JNIajor, which I sent to you as an antidote to that petulance and fretfulness which I perceive to t grow 1 Meaning Antony. Some of the conspirators were for kil- lincr him at the same time with Caesar 3 but this was generously opposed by Brutus. 2 We have already taken notice of Servilia, the mother of Brutus, being the mistress of Caesar, who had made her a pre- sent of this estate, which had been confiscated for the author's adherence to the cause of his country. \ 248 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 249 grow with my years. Every thing discomposes me. My life is now drawing to a closed and I relinquish the business and pleasures of the world to the young who succeed me. Do you continue to take care of my interest. I have written, or rather, dictated this in the seat ofVestorius, when the second course was set upon the table. To-morrow I intend to see Hir- tius, the last of the five commissioners of Caesar's funeral. These are the means I make use of to reclaim this great man to our republican party. Yet, I know it to be a labour in vain. There is not a man amongst them who is not afraid of peace. Let me, therefore, retire — any where rather than to a camp. I beg you to express, in the warmest terms, my good wishes for the wel- fare of Attica. I am impatient to see the speech of Octavius. Write me every thing that occurs, especially if there is any remittance from Dola- bella -, or whether to get rid of my debt, he will pot pass a bill in favour of all insolvent debtors^ EPISTLE ' He was about sixty three. ^ Orig. Acquid Do/aisila tinniat. That is, whether Dola- bulla chinks. ^ This was the measure that had been long suspected. ( M EPISTLE XXII. JcJeing informed by Pilia, that an express was going off for you upon the loth, I immediately took up my pen that I might write to you some- thing or other. In the first place then, I am to inform you, that I set out from hence to Arpi- num on the 17th of May; you will, therefore,^ send thither any letters you write to me, though I shall very soon see you in passing. For I am de- sirous before I come to Rome, to ascertain ^ith full assurance, what is likely to be the event. And yet, I am afraid, that my own apprehensions are but too well grounded. The designs of the party are but too plain. As to my pupil \ who it is to sup with me this evening, dearly does he love the man whom our Brutus wounded ; and if I must speak it (for I speak it from what I see and know) they, in general, are averse to restore the public tranquillity. The reasons they adopt and profess are, that a most illustrious person has been murdered; that his death has con- vulsed the whole commonwealth ; that, as soon as our fears have subsided, all his acts will be cancelled ; ^ Meaning Hirtius. It seems our author's countiy seat and his lay very near one another. For, though he went to see Hir- tius, we find him entertaining him in his own house. / . , • .•^♦t 1 250 CICERO'S EPISTLES cancelled ; that his clemency was his chief mis- fortune, and had he been less forgiving, he would still have been alive. "Now I am of opinion, that if Sextus Pompeius should come to Italy, as he probably will, at the head of a sufficient army, a war must be inev- itable. The appearances and apprehensions of this give me infinite uneasiness, for we shall not now have the same liberty as we had in the late war. We have avowed our party by our rejoicing publicly for Ca?sar's death. And his friends are perpetually accusing us of ingratitude. We shall then have nothing of that liberty which we ' en- joyed with great many others at that time. I must therefore throw off the mask and take the field, which will be more disagreeable than a thousand deaths at my age. The ides of March, therefore, give me no such joy as they did some time ago, for they were followed by an egregious «rror*. And yet the youthful heroes may plead, that 1 Monsieur Mongault here translates the plural number by the singular. But I think it is more natural to understand what is said here of Atticus, as well as of Cicero j because the for- mer openly opposed the giving Caesar's body a public funeral. 2 Meaning that Antony was not killed along with Caesar. From this passage and many others, it appears, that our author was not at all in the secret of the conspirators. The truth is, he had given so many proofs of weakness and irresolution, that they did not choose to trust him. There was another reason, besides that Df magnanimity, why Brutus opposed the putting Antony TO ATTICUS. Q51 tkat their successful achievements are sufficient to Meld them from any reproach ^ If you, however, have any grounds for hoping' better things, as you have more opportunities of conversation, and of being present at consulta- tions ; I beg you will let me know by a letter, and bestow some thoughts how I am to proceed in the affair of my votive legation. The truth is, a great many people here put me upon my guard against being present in the senate on the 1st of June. They tell me, that soldiers have private orders to be in readiness that day to dispatch our friends; and it appears to me, that they will be in greater safety any where than in the senate. * CICERO'S Antony to death along with Caesar, and that was, that he had been engaged with Trebonius to kill Caesar upon bis last return from Spain. Antony afterwards was reconciled to Caesar, but he never discovered his engagements with Trebonius, and the conspirators, for that reason, agreed that Trebonius should, under some pretext, keep Antony from going into the senate- house when Caesar was killed, for fear they should have been obliged to have killed him likewise, if he had endeavoured to have saved Caesar. ^ The original here is a Greek Iambic. AKK iv^hois rorJ CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. BOOK XV, EPISTLE I. X HE death of Alexio is to me a melancholy event ! It is incredible into what affliction it has thrown me, and I am fretful from different causes than most of the people about me suppose. Where, say they, will you find another physician ? What occasion have I now * for a physician ? If I had, they, surely, are not so scarce. But I regret him for the affection he bore me, for the elegance of his manners, and the sweetness of his temper; let me add likewise, that it is an alarming considera- tion for ourselves, that such a man, notwithstand- ing ^ Meaning that life was not worth his care, when his country was in so deplorable a situation. m- 254 CICERO^S EHSTLES ing his great temperance and skill in his profes- sion, should be hurried so suddenly out of the world by so terrible a disease. But there is one thought which in general is calculated to console us under events of this kind, that we have re- ceived life oncondition of submitin^ to all the calamities that befalit\ 1 acquainted you, by a former letter, that I had not seen Antony. For, while I was at Pom- peii, he came to ^licenum, which place he left before I knew of his being there. But it hap- pened, while I was perusing your letter, that Ilirtius was at my house at Puteoli. I therefore read your letter, and pressed your affair home, to him. He told me, in the first place, that whatever part he did in the business should be done for your own sake only, and he concluded by telling ^ Sed ad liaec omnia una consolatio est quodea conditione na- tisumus, ut nihil, quod homini-accidere possit, recusari debe- amus. A beautiful and appropriate sentiment, but rather calcu- lated to silence than soothe complaint, and yet this is the farthest limit to which the light of nature extends. The dis- ciple of nature under affliction ceases to grieve because to grieve is unavailing ,• because the cause of sorrow is the inevita- ble lot of man. But the believer in revelation possesses sour- ces of real consolation even in circumstances of the severest pain. Deprived of his dearest friends and relatives and in tlie prospect of his own death he looks through the evidences of Christianity to a renewed and more exalted state of being, and he feels his fears and his sorrows subsiding into serenity and joy.— E. * TO ATTICUS. 255 telling me, that he would be directed by me, not only ia this afiair, but through the whole course of his consulship. With regard to Antony, I will deal with him in such a manner as to convince him, that, if he obliges me in this particular, he will make me wholly his. I am in hopes Dola- bella will pay what he owes me \ Now to return to our friends, of whom you in- timate your good hopes on account of their mo- derate edicts. You must know when Hirtius par- ted from me at Puteoli on the l6th, to meet Pansa at Naples, I satisfied myself as to his sen- timents ; for I took him aside, and exhorted him to pacific measures. You may be sure he told me that his inclination lay that way, but that he Avas as much afraid of violence from our friends, as from Antony ; that in the meanwhile, though both parties had reason not to appear abroad without their guards, yet he was equally appre- hensive of both sides drawing the sword. In short he is not rightly disposed towards peace. I agree with you as to the younger Quintus, whose father received wonderful satisfaction and delight from your letter. As to Casrellia, I easi- ly brought her over, nor indeed did I think her much in earnest, and if she was indifferent, ff surely ■^ Orig. Dolahellam spero domi esse. It is, if I mistake not, an act of bankruptcy for a trader to deny himself, if he is at home, to his creditor. 256 CICERO'S EPISTLES surely I have much more reason lo be so. As to the other woman, who, you say, is so trouble- some, I am surprised you pay her the least atten- tion. It is true, I have spoken in terms of com- mendation in the presence of her friends. But before her sons and daughter I spoke in very different terms. You may demand my reason for this inconsistence. Age deviates from its na* tural character, when it again engages in the vain pursuits of youth, and debases itself with vexations which are already too numerous ^ You tell me that Brutus desires to see me be- fore the 1st of the next month, and he has sent me a letter to the same purpose. It is very pos- sible I may see him, but indeed I know not how I can serve him. For how can I give him counsel when I am so much at a loss for it myself, and as his action has rendered his own name immortal, but has left our tranquillity precarious. The report ^ Carellia appears to have out-stepped the modesty of her sex, and through the medium of Atticus to have solicited marriage with Cicero. She seems to have been misled by the compli- ments which on some occasions he paid her, and which were hardly justifiable if accompanied with the reflection which he passed upon her person and character at other times. Hii g words here are part of a Greek proverb which carries an allu- sion to a fable of ^SOp. Ow rxvro ik ts avrtSj supply cofxaroi tursyivirat, I did not pour out the same thing from the same moult h, i. e. the very tongue which praised her on some occasions censur- ed her on others. — E. TO A^mcus. 257 The report about Cleopatra is come to nothing. I beo" that you would deal with Flamma all you can. I wrote to you yesterday, as I was leaving Pu- teoli to go to Cuma3 where I found Pilia almost entirely recovered ; I likewise saw her at Bauli. She was come thither^ from Cumae to attend a funeral, at which I likewise assisted; for our friend Cnseus LucuUus was then burying his mo- ther. I therefore passed yesterday at Sinuessa, and have this morning written this letter to you, before I set out for Arpinum. Now there is no- thing new that I can either tell you, or you me, unless you think there is any thing in the follow- ing circumstance. Our friend Brutus has sent me the speech, which he made in the assembly at the capitoi, and he begged that I would use what freedom I pleased in correcting it before he pub- lished it. Nothing, I assure you, can exceed it in elegance of style and propriety of sentiment. But, if I had composed it, I should have anima- ted the subject with more ardour, and enforced it with greater energy^. You know the character he ^ Bauli lay between Bnlae and Cumae. - Our author is certainly in the right in his oDscivations of the differeace between riimself and Brutus 3 and tnere aie^ to this very day, two parties of the same kind in the republic of letters. Brutus had received a regular education ,; he had ap- Vol. III. S <2j8 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ^59 he assumed, and therefore I could correct no- thing in the speech. For, according to the man- ner which our friend Brutus thinks the best, and the judgment which he forms of a complete spea- ker, he has succeeded so well in that speech, that no composition can be more finished. But my taste is quite dift'erent. Whether I am right or wrong I know not. I would have you, however, read plied himself to all the elegancies of stile and language ; his sentiments were just and beautiful, and nothing could be more irreprehensible than all his compositions. Such I say was Bru- tus, and such the generality of the noblemen and gentlemen, who made great figures at that time at Rome, and such at this day is the character of the most distinguished moderns for learning who have gone through a regular course of educa- cation, and apply themselves to study. But, though these are qualities that form line writers and good speakers, there goes more to the composition of a great genius. Our author thought that this either was wanting in Brutus, or that it had been too much polished away. He felt it within himself, he had seen its effects, but was himself too great a genius to descend to the drudgery of proving and defending itupon the principles of art, because, in fact, it is somewhat that is beyond the bounds of art, though it constitutes its chief beauties. With regard to elegance, we have had fewer instances^of genius in it than in painting, poetry, or any of the fine arts, while tlie compositions of learned speakers are, in general, less faulty and more just than compositions upon any other art. There was scarcely a oreat man at Home, who was not a fine speaker and a fine wri- ter, who did not pique himself in publishing his compositions, and who did not hope for immortality from tliem. But they were without the characteristic I have mentioned, which so eminently distinguishes our author, and therefore their corn- posuions are long lost. .v! read that speech, if you have not read it already, and let me know your opinion of it. And yet I am afraid that you wdll be betrayed into an erroneous judgment^ by that refinement in criticism which is expressed by your own name. But if you reflect upon the thunder of Demosthenes, you will there see that force may be united with elegance. But of this we will talk when we meet At present I was unwilling that Methrodorus should go to you either with no letter, or with one, only for form's sake. EPISTLEII. On the 18th, as I w^as leaving Sinuessa to go to Cumee, after writing a letter to you, I re- ceived yours from the express. It was unneces- sary to say so much as you do concerning the affair of Buthrotum, which lies, and shall lie, as near to my heart as it does, or can, lie to yours. It becomes each of us to take care of the other s concerns, and I have engaged in this as a busi- ness of the highest consequence to myself. I learnt from 1 Cicero here puns upon the name of Atticus which is syno- nimous with the Greek arr/xos , elegant. We find our author, in several places, blaming his friend for his too great delicacy in criticism, which, he thought, damped that noble spirit, which marks the works of a great genius. S2 $60 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 261 from your letters, as I have from another quar- ter, that Lucius Antony made a Avretched speech; but I am ignorant of the particulars ; for you do not give me so much as a hint of them. I am glad of what has happened to INIenedemus. Our nephew certainly said those things which you write. I am ^lad that you think me in the ri^ht in not com- posing what you requested of me, and you would think me much more so, were you to read the Harangue which I mentioned in my former letter of this day. Your news of the legions^ proves true. But I think you have not sufficiently con- sidered that the authority of the senate alone will not be able to carry through our Buthrotian affair. So far as I can see (though all is but conjecture) our own safety will be but precarious. But if I am mistaken in this, I wish you not to be mistaken with regard to that business. I am of your opinion, as to the harangue of Octavius *, but I do not approve of the prepara- tions Antony had called some legions from Macedon, the pro- vince tliat had been allotted him by Cccsar, with an intention to employ them in Gaul, which was the province he had his eye upon at this time, and Atticus thought that this was a fa- vourable circumstance for the afiair he was soliciting at Bu- throtum, which lay in the neighbourhood of Macedonia. ^ Octavius, as Heir to Caesar, intended to celebrate certain plays in honour of the Julian family, which that great man desijrncd t tions which he makes for the plays\ and that Ma- tins and Posthumius should be his manatrers. Saserna^ is worthy of being their colleague. Now, yoii are sensible, that all those fellows hate peace as much as we do war. I should be dad to con- tribute all I can in abating the public prejudice against Balbus. But he himself thinks that im- possible, and therefore he is at work upon other schemes. I am glad that what I have said in my first Tusculan Disputation has diminished your fear of death, which is the best and the readiest re- fuge from calamity. I am glad that Flamma promises so fairly. I am ignorant, as to the par- ticulars of the case of the Tyndaritans-, about which you are so earnest. Meanwhile, I will en- deavour designed to exhibit before he was killed. Cicero did not like this proceeding. As yet, he looked upon Octavius in no other light than that of a boy, who from the nearness of this relation to Caesar, might be made use of to balance the power of An- tony. But he did not like, that the remembrance of Caesar's person should be awakened in the minds of the people by such Exhibitions, and he certainly wasinthe rightconcerning it. The truth is, public affairs were then very much perplexed at Rome. If the conspirators were in the right to kill C?esar, nothing could be more absurd, as our author often observes, than to inforce his measures, and in a manner, even to deity his person. If they were in the wrong, it was equally absurd in the body of the peopie, to bestow such applauses as they did upon every measure taken by the conspirators for the perpetual abohtion of tyranny. ^ These three were known, and violent partizans of Caesar. • They were inhabitants of a city in Sicily. 262 CICERO'S EPISTLES deavour to serve them. I find, that Hirtius is alarmed at the present proceedings, and especially at Antony's profusion. I am sorry for the loss of Alexio, but I think it a happiness for him that he is dead, as his disease was so violent. Meanwhile, I should be glad to know who are his second heirs, and tlie date of his testament EPISTLE III. On the 22d I received at Atina, two letters from you, in answer to two of mine, the one dated the 18th, the other the 21st. Now, in answer to the first. You will hasten to Tusculanum as you write, and I think of being there myself on the 2.5th. You write, '' that we must obey our conquerors." I will answer, at least, for myself, that I will not. I know many measures prefer- able to that. You put me in mind of the decree^ that was made in the temple of Apollo, under the consulate of Lentulus and Marcellus. But give me leave to say, that the party is not the same, nor are the times the same, especially as you write to me, that Marcellus and others are retiring. I must therefore try before-hand, and come ^This was when, upon Caesar's marching to Rome, the senate, as in the case of a rebellion, or conspiracy, or any other mo- mentous concern to the public, gave it in charge to the con- suls, '' to^take care that the commonwealth should receive no detriment '* TO ATTICUS. £63 come to some resolution, whether I can be safe at Rome or not. I am very jealous of the pos- sessors of our new plantations. Thus, scarcely can I move without danger\ But tliese are mat- ters of no moment and I despise even the greatest dangers. I am acquainted with the contents of Calva's will, who was a mean, sordid man. I am obliged to you for the care you have shown in the sale of Demonicus. It is some time since I wrote very fully to Dolabella concerning Ma- rius'. I hope my letters came to hand, for I pay all due attention to his interest. I now come to your second letter. I know all I wanted to know, concerning Alexio. Hirtius is entirely yours. I wish it were worse witli Antony than it is^ What you write to me concerning my nephew, gives me very great pain. I will speak with * Meaning, that if he goes to Rome, he was there in danger from Caesar's party, and, should he stay in the country, from the veterans which Antony had gained over by a late distribu* tion of public lands amongst them. 2 He was a friend and relation to Cicero j and some of his letters are still extant. » Orig. Antonh, quam est, volo pejus esse. Monsieur Mon- gault thinks, that this expression regards Lucius Antony, who had opposed his solicitations, in the affair of Buthrotura. But I see no reason, why we may not understand it of Mark Antony, whom our author began to be more than ever jealous of, especially, as he had made several fruitless attempts to talk with Mark Antony about that affair, the success of which de- pended more upon him than it did upon Lucius Antony. 264 CICERO S EPISTLES with his father when I see him. I am greatly desirous to serve Brutus as far as I am able, and I perceive, you are of my opinion, with regard to his short harangue. But I cannot comprehend how you can imagine, that I should compose a speech, and put it off as that which was pro- nounced by Brutus, now that he has published his. How would this look, or would you have me to go upon the topic, that it was lawful to kill the tyrant. I shall speak and write much on that subject; but it will be in a difterent stile, and on a different occasion. The tribunes have be- behaved nobly in the affair of Ceesar's throne^, and I likewise approve of what our knights have done. I am glad that Brutus has been at my house, provided he has enjoyed himself there, and without being hurried away. TO ATTICUS- 265 i\ j:pistle EPISTLE IV. About two in the afternoon, on the 23d, I re- ceived a dispatch from Quintus Fufius', contain- \u(T a note written in his senseless vapid manner, be-^ing me to receive him to my former good ophiion. Meanwhile, it may possibly happen, that when one does not love a person, he looks upon every thing to be stupid which that person does, or writes. My answer was such, as, I be- lieve, you would approve of. The same express brought me two letters from you, the one of the 22d, the other of the 23d. Now, as to the first— Wtiat, a whole legion has deserted Antony !^ — Excellent news indeed ! Carfulenus too has aban- doned him ! 1 should have as well thought, that rivers would flow back to their source. What you tell me of Antony s measures, is ver^ alarm- ing; I wish that he would apply to the people, as I believe he will, rather than to the senate'. But ^ This was a golden chair which the senate had decreed for Caesar, in all public places, a compliment paid only to the gods. When Octavius aUempted to bring this chair upon the theatre, he was opposed in it by the tribunes, probably se- conded by the knights, who were disposed in fourteen rows of the theatre. 1 His surname was Calenus. He had been the friend of Clodius, and was afterwards attached to Antony. « Orig. Et Legio ? This legion was called Martia, and was commanded by the Carfulenus here mentioned, who went over to Octavius, and was afterwards killed at the battle of Modena, where his legion was cut in pieces. 3 Our author was afraid of any thing coming from the au- thority of the senate, that looked like condemning the action pf the conspirators. S66 CICBROS EPISTLES h TO ATTICUS. 267 But the whole plan of his coiiduct, seems to point towards war ; if it is true, that he intends to de- prive Decimus Brutus of his government. Ac- cording to ttie opinion I have of his spirit, I do not think Antony will gain his point without vio- lence. But, as he has become responsible for your solicitation in favour of the Buthrotians, I wish he may meet with no opposition^ You will perhaps, ask me, why I am so merry upon this subject But give me leave to tell you, that I am fo far from being merry, that 1 am sorry the mighty favour you obtained, has not been ob» tained by my assiduity and interest. You tell me you are quite at a loss to conceive Iiow our friends ought to proceed. I liave beei> equally at a loss for a long time. The consola- tion, afforded by the ides of March, is now un- availing. We acted like men, but we consulted like boys. The tree was felled, but its roots were not plucked up, and therefore, you see how it puts forth fresh shoots. Let us, therefore, have recourse to our Tusculan Disputations', as you are so fond of them. If you please, we will conceal this last circumstance from Saufeius, who never shall know it through me. You tell me, Brutus desires to know from you, on what day I am to be at Tus- cnlanum. Let him know, about the 127th, as I wrote * This is spoken ironically. * Vi%. Against the fear of death, and against the Epicureans^ of which sect Saufeius was. /. wrote to you before, and I should be glad to see you as soon as possible. For, I am of opinion, that I must go to Lanuvium, which, I know, will afford much idle conversation to the public ; and therefore requires deliberation. I now return to your first letter, without ad- verting to what you say in the beginning of it concerning the Buthrotians, whose interest I have very deep at heart, provided, as you intimate, I shall be at liberty to appear in their favour. You still insist, and that too as peremptorily as you did before, on my writing a speech for Brutus. What shall I treat of? The subject that has been handled by him ? and treat of it too without his desiring me ! This he would regard as an imper- tinent interference. You will perhaps advise me to compose it in the manner of Heraclides. Well, I am not against that, but I must form my plan, and I must have time to execute it ma- turely. You may entertain what opinion you please of me, and I hope you always will enter- tain a very good one, but believe me (and I mean no offence) that if public matters continue as they are at present, I shall have no pleasure in reflecting upon the ides of March. Had we struck at the root, we should not have had a second C^sar, nor should we have been terrified into a confirmation of all his acts. At least, for my own part (that I may speak in the stile of Saufeius, and not in that of my Tusculan Dis- putations, 268 CICERO'S EPISTLES N TO ATTICUS. s6g putations, which you exhort even Vestorius to read) I was so much in favour with Caesar, whose memory I wish to consign to everlasting infamy, that since I have not recovered my freedom by the death of that tyrant, he would have been at this time of my life, by no means, an undesir- able master. I blush, believe me I do, at what I write, but as I have written it, it shall even standi I I wish that the news concerning Menedemus may be true, and likev/ise, that concerning the queen of Egypt. I will talk with you when we meet of all the other matters, especially how our friends are to proceed, and wnat I am to do my- self, should Antony beset the senate-house with his soldiers. I have not trusted his messenorer with this letter, for fear he should break it open, and, 1 Our author^ here, gives us a very true picture of himself. Whatever his professions are, it is plain, from the constant tenor of his letters, that when he did not meet with the consi- deration he thought he deserved, notliing went well in the go- vernment. We find him by turns courting the conspirators, Antony, Octavius, Dolabella and Hirtius, and all to recover his own importance. The apology offered for him by Dr. Middleton and his other admirers, as if he had done this in order to keep the parties balanced, so that his country might recover her liberty, is the most despicable that can be im^igined. For he could not well, at this time, be ignorant of the views of Oc- tavius, who had the address to sooth his vanity, and weakness, and to make use of him in all his most pernicious designs upon the public liberty. and, as I was at any rate to answer yours, I have sent it off by express. I M ish with all my heart, that you could have answered the request of Brutus\ As you can- not, I have let him know so much by letter. I have sent Tyro with a message, and a letter to Dolabella. You may send for him, and write by him whatever you have to say to me. When I write this, Lucius Caesar interrupts me, begging tliat I would see him at his house in the grove, or that I would write to him where he can wait upon me, because Brutus wants very much, that we should meet together. What a vexatious, endless, business this is ! Well ! so far as I can foresee at present, I will give him the meeting, and then go to Rome. I write to you as yet only in general, for I have yet heard nothing from Balbus. I, therefore, am impatient for a letter from you, stating your opinion of what is likely to be the event, and giving me an account of the state of things. EPISTLE V. A HE express is returned from Brutus, with let- ters from him and Cassius, who are extremely desirous of being advised by me, Brutus even asks •^ Monsieur Mongault for very good reasons, is of opimoHj that this paragraph begins a new letter. (If 268 III CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. ^Gg putations, which you exhort even Vestorius to read) I was so much in favour with Caesar, whose memory I wish to consign to everlasting infamy, that since I have not recovered my freedom by the death of that tyrant, he would have been at this time of my life, by no means, an undesir- able master. I blush, believe me I do, at what I write, but as I have written it, it shall even standi I I wish that the news concerning Menedemus may be true, and likewise, that concerning the queen of Egypt. I will talk with you when we meet of all the other matters, especially how our friends are to proceed, and what I am to do my- self, should Antony beset the senate-house with his soldiers. I have not trusted his messenger with this letter, for fear he should break it open, and, » Our author, here, gives us a very true picture of himself. Whatever his professions are, it is plain, from the constant tenor of his letters, that when he did not meet with the consi- deration he thought he deserved, notliing went well in the go- vernment. We find him by turns courting the conspirators, Antony, Octavius, Dolabella and Hirtius, and all to recover his own importance. The apology offered for him by Dr. Middletan and his other admirers, as if he had done this in order to keep the parties balanced, so that his country might recover her liberty, is the most despicable that can be imagined. For he could not well, at this time, be ignorant of the views of Oc- tavius, who had the address to sooth his vanity, and weakness, and to make use of him in all his most pernicious designs upon the public liberty. and, as I was at any rate to answer yours, I have sent it off by express. I wish with all my heart, that you could have answered the request of Brutus'. As you can- not, I have let him know so much by letter. I have sent Tyro with a message, and a letter to Dolabella. You may send for him, and write by him whatever you have to say to me. When I write this, Lucius Caesar interrupts me, begging tliat I would see him at his house in the grove, or that I would write to him where he can wait upon me, because Brutus wants very much, that we should meet together. What a vexatious, endless, business this is ! Well ! so far as I can foresee at present, I will give him the meeting, and then go to Rome. I write to you as yet only in general, for I have yet heard nothing from Balbus. I, therefore, am impatient for a letter from you, stating your opinion of what is likely to be the event, and giving me an account of the state of things. EPISTLE V. X HE express is returned from Brutus, with let- ters from him and Cassius, who are extremely desirous of being advised by me, Brutus even asks * Monsieur Mongault for very good reasons, is of opinioHj that this paragraph begiixs a new letter. t70 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. a7i I asks me, which of the two measures he should adopts — You understand me ; wretched situa- tion ! It will not bear writing upon. I, therefore, think of answering him by silence, unless some- what should occur to you. If there does, I beg you would inform me by letter. As to Cassius, he is extremely earnest and importunate with me, that I would convert Hirtius into a patriot. Would you think the man in his senses thus to bid me do a thing impossible^ 1 have sent you his letter. Both Balbus and Hirtius write to me in the same manner as you do concerning the se- nate's coming to a resolution upon the provinces of Brutus and Cassius. Hirtius tells me, that he has actually left Rome, and is returned to Tus- culanum, and he is violently against my going to Rome, and that too, on account of the danger I must be exposed to, to which he himself has been exposed. For my part, though there were no danger, I ought to be so cautious of exciting Antony's jealousy, by not seeming to be pleased Avith his prosperity and power, that I have all the reason in the world not to go to Rome, for fear I should see him. You » Viz. Whether he shall go to Rome, or leave Italy. « Orig. Zyvx^tvs ac^0^xKo% . Literally, the fuller is black, a pro- verb, which answers to the saying among us, to wash a blacks amore white, that is, to attempt an impossibility. — E. You must know likewise, tlmt our fvieiid Varr^ 4ias forwarded to me a letter, sent to him, I inow not by whom; for he has erased the writers •name, informing him, that such of the veterans^ as were excluded from the division of the lands (for some of them were thus excluded) talked very desperately, and that all who seem not \9 favour their interests, must be exposed to great hazards, should they go to Rome. How the» must I go, return, look, and walk about, amidst such ruffians. If, as you write Lucius Antonius is ordered to command against Decimus, anS other generals are appointed to act against our friends the conspirators, what shall I do, and how shall I behave? My present resolution is to absent myself from a city where, in prosperity, I flourished with the highest dignity ; and with a little, even in servitude. But my resolution i« not so fixt to leave Italy, upmi which I will con- sult with you, as it is not to go to Rome. EPISTLE \I. Our friends Brutus and Cassius having wriUen to me to employ all my interest with Hirtius, who in their opinion is a good patriot, to confirm him « They afterwjurds went over to OcUviiis, i 272 CICERO'S EPISTLES il him in his present dispositions, from which they apprehend iie may swerve : I have written and recommended to him a due regard for Brutus and Cassius. Meanwhile, though he is at present at variance with Antony, yet, I know him to be a friend to the party. I was willing you should see his answer, which I have sent you, and to know your opinion whether the party are appre- hensive that our friends have more courage than they really have. Hirtius to his Friend Cicero, uisheth Health. '' X ou ask me, whether I am now returned to the country, and whether I am inactive amidst this universal combustion. You must know then that 1 have left Rome, because I thought it my best course. I write this in my journey to Tusculanum, for you are not to think me so much of a hero, as to return to Rome by the 5th. For, I can see nothing now that can require my at- tendance there, since the governments are be- stowed for a term of years. I wish, that you could as easily dissuade Brutus and Cassius from running into any violent measure as you can truly persuade them of my being directed by you. I observe you sa}^, that they were leaving Italy when they wrote to you. Whither, or why, are they going;? Dissuade them, I conjure you, my Cicero, TO ATTICUS. 273 Cicero, from this intention, and suffer not the whole system of our government to be ruined, which is ev*y day, by heaven, receiving funda- mental shocks from the rapines, burnings, and slaughters that are committed. All they have to do is to be upon their guard, if they apprehend any danger, but let them not stir an inch farther. Believe me, they cannot, by the most violent mea- sures, come nearer to their purpose than they can do by the most inactive, provided they are circumspect. As to what is passing now, it can- not be durable, but should a civil war break out, it must be immediately pernicious and fatal. Let me know your sentiments of them when I arrive at Tusculanum. Such is the letter of Hirtius, and my answer was, that to mv certain knowledge, my friends had nothing violent in view. I was willing you should know how this matter has passed. This letter was sealed when Balbus wrote me, that Servilia was returned, and assures him, that Brutus and Cassius will not leave Italy. I now • expect a letter from you. EPISTLE VII. The letters you forwarded to me, gave me great pleasure, especially that of our friend Sex- tus. The cause, you will say, is that indeed it i$ Vol- IIL T so i74 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. S75 80 much in your own praise. There may indeed be something in that; and yet, before I came to this place, I was charmed both with his senti- ments upon public matters, and his assiduity in writing to me. As to our pacific friend Servius\ with his little secretary, he seems to have under- taken the negociation, and to be guarding against any fraud in the deeds of agreement. But he ought to have reflected, that it is not the law but the sword^ that will decide the question. I ex- pect to have a letter from you likewise. EPISTLE VIII. 1^1 NCE you left me, I received two letters from Balbus without any news, and one from Hirtius, intimating his terrible disgust with the veterans. I am extremely impatient to know, what will be done the first of next month'. For that pur- pose, I have dispatched Tyro, and along with him, several of my domestics, any of whom you may charge with a letter when any thing happens worth * Servius Sulpicius was remarkable for affecting in the for- mer war, to negociate between Caesar and the senate; and he was esteemed the greatest lawyer of his time. * This is taken from a verse of Ennius. .' The original has Kal. Martiis. But this must be a mis- take, since our author evidently means the first of June, when the senate was to meet. worth your writing. I have even written to An- tony concerning a legation, for fear he should have taken it amiss, had I written to Dolabella singly* As Antony, however, is said not to be easy of access, I have written to desire Eutrapelus^ to put my letter into his hand, and have acquainted him how serviceable that legation would be to me. A votive legation would' be more honour- able^ but I may make use of either. I beg you would diligently examine your owft situation. I wish that we could confer together upon it, but if that should be impracticable, we may do the same thing by letters. Grceceius^ has written to me, that he has received a letter from Caius Cassius, informing him, that a number of armed men have got together, and are ordered to march to my house at Tusculanum. This news does not seem very probable to me. Meanwhil^, 1 must be upon my guard, and must have an eye upon my several country-houses. But to-mor-^ row, I shall better k^ow what to determine. EPISTLE » He was an officer of the artillery under Antony. * Vt%. Than a lieutenancy under Dolabella. * He was very intimate with Brutus and Cassius, T % I 276 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE IX. \Jn the third in the evening, I received a letter from Balbus, informing me that the senate would meet on the 5th, and that Brutus was to be dis- patched to Asia, and Cassius to Sicily, to buy up corn, which they were to send to Rome. How desperate is our situation ! First, that they shouW receive any commission from such a faction, and next, if they received any, that they should re- ceive one in which they can act only in the ca- pacity of deputies^ Perhaps, it would have been as well to send them to divert themselves on the bank of Eurotas. But all must be as fortune di- rects. Balbus tells me likewise, that the senate at the same time will, by a decree, assign pro- vinces to them and other praetorians. This, in- deed, is better than their walking under the Per- sican portico. For you must know, that our friend has a Lacedaemon at Lanuvium^ You ask > Because the year of their pratorship not being expired, they could only have the title of Legati, and not of proprae- tores. * A good many private circumstances are touched at in this, and the preceding sentence. Monsieur Mongault, after Grae- vius, thinks it probable, that Brutus had built at Lanuvium a kind of an epitome of the famous Persican portico which was at Lacedaemon, in commemoration of the victories of the La- cedasmoniana TO ATTICUS. 277 ask me, why I should laugh in talking of such matters ? What shall I do, I am tired with cry- ing ? ^ , Immortal Gods ! into what agony was I thrown, by reading the first page of your letter? What! armed men breaking into your house ! But I was glad that this cloud soon blew over. I am ex- tremely impatient to know how you succeeded in your melancholy as well as difficult negotiation, of bringing our friends to act in concert'. This seems to be impracticable, so closely are we be- set on all hands with troops. As to myself, the letter from Brutus, which you say you read, so struck me, that though I was before uncertain what to advise, 1 am now rendered still more undetermined through grief. But I will write you more when I am better informed. At pre- sent I had very little to write to you, and the less, because cedaemonians over the Persians, and that thriver Eurotas >vhere the Lacedaemonians used to indulge themiaves in t.meof peace, was represented there, either in painting, orby some real nvulet in the neighbourhood, to which Brutus gave that name. Mean- while from the manner of our author's expression, I am apt to think that besides those allusions, he has a secret glance at Brutus's' laconic way of writing, which he so much disap- ^"^^'Oril M consiUandum legatione. I agree in general with Monsieur Mongaulfs sense of this passage. Only, I think that the expression does not imply a simple consultation, but a con- sultation for acting with unanimity. This office suited very well with the character of Atticus, and the next letter justifies the sense I have given to this passage. 278 CICERO'S EPISTLES because I am in some doubt whether this letter will ct>me to your hand, as it is not certain that this express will see you. I am extremely im» patient for a letter from you. EPISTLE X. Jrlow affectionate is th$ letter from Brutus, and how wayward is your situation, that you cannot go to him ! Now, what advice can I send them ? It would be dishonourable to accept favours from that party ? Shall I counsel them to make some attempt ? That is what they dare not, and at this time, what they cannot do. Supposing I advise them to remain quiet But who will answer for their being safe ? But should the party proceed to extremities against Decimus, how then could our friends endure to live, even supposing, that none should at^ck them? Can any thing be more mortifying than that? Brutus dares not preside at his own exhibitions ? To bestow upon him the commission for buying up corn, is no other than a plausible pretext for removing him out of the way^; not to mention that it is one of the meanest employments * Orig. Quce est alia Dionis legatio. Because the tyrants Dionysius the elder and the younger, used to employ their kinsman, Dion, in embassies to keep him from practices against their government. TO ATTICUS. S79 employments in all our government. In shor^ U is so delicate an affair to give counsel in such a tuation, that the counsellors themselves are no -b safety. But I should despise danger, cou d I be of service. For of what service can I be by thrusting myself between Brutus and his mother who sways him either by her counsels, or her en treaties I will, however, bestow some thought upon the matter. I shall write to him for answer him I must; I shall, therefore, send my letter directly either to Antium or Circaei. EPISTLE XI. On tlie 26th I arrived at Antium, where I met with a hearty welcome from Brutus. Then in the hearing of a great many people, particularly of Servilia, TertuUa, Portia^ and likewise of *a- vonius, he asked my opinion as to the part he ought to act I had tJeen thinking of this very thing on the road, and I accordingly advised him to accept of the commission for buying up corn in Asia ; because now we had nothing to think upon, but how they should live in safety, which was the only expedient by which we could save our country. I had but just begun to deliver th« opinion 1 She had been beloved by Caesar, and still lived in great friendship with his friends. 2 These were the mother, sister and wife of Brutus. A 280 CICERO'S EPISTLES opinion when Cassius came in\ and I then re- peated what I had said. Upon this Cassius, with furious looks, and with the very spirit of Mars, asserted positively, he would not go to Sicily. What, said he, am I to receive an affront as a favour? What then, said I, will you do? He ahen told me, he would retire to Achaia, And Uhat will you do, Brutus, resumed I. If you think proper, replies he, I will go to Rome. I think it by no means proper, answered I, for you cannot be there with safety.— But, supposing I could, would you then advise me to go? — I could, by all means, wish, replied I, could you be in safety, that you should live at Rome, and that you should not leave Italy either now, or when your praetorship is expired, even for a go- vernment But still, as matters are circumstanced, my opinion is against your going to Rome. I then strengthened what I had said with such reasons as must readily occur to yourself, why he could not live at Rome with safety. They then bitterly lamented, and especially Cassius, who inveighed against Decimus Brutus*, the 1 Doctor Middleton, vol. Hi. p. 6l. of his Life of Cicero, translates the original here, which is Cassius intervenit, Cas- sius interrupted him. But it is plain he was mistaken. « I cannot be of Monsieur Mongault's opinion, that this was, because Decimus Brutus opposed the killing of Antony. Because had Cassius inveighed against him for that, there could have TO ATTICUS. 28i the opportunities v^ich they had lost I did not contradict him, but told him it was impossible to recal what was past I then began to talk of the measures they ought to pursue, though with- out saying any thing particular that is not pub- licly and daily talked of I did not even men- tion that we ought to have rid ourselves of any other person than Caesar. I only said, that the senate should instantly be summoned together; that we should avail ourselves of the people's ardour, who ought to have been exhorted by some animated speeches, to take into their hands the whole system of the government Upon this, the lady who is well known to you, exclaimed, " Well, never did I hear any body talk at this rate before." But I soon silenced her. Cassius however, in all probability, will be gone, because Servilia has undertaken, that the resolution of the senate, about his corn commission, shall be repealed, and our friend soon altered the idle strain in which he talked before ; for he said he would have been no manner of doubt of the thing, though it was a question at that time, and is not clear to this day, whether it was Marcus or Decimus Brutus, who dissuaded the conspira- tors from killing Antony. I rather think that, by this passage, he alludes to some other neglect of Decimus Brutus in not opposing Antony, thoup^h he was then at the head of three le- gions in the Cisalpine Gaul. This is confirmed byAppian deBel. Civ. lib. iii. who says that Brutus and Cassius trusted chiefly to Decimus Brutus, for repressing the power of Autony, in which, however, they were disappointed. 282 CICERO'S EPISTLES would comply. It was therefore agreed upon, that, though he was absent, the plays s ui i ^e celebrated in his name. Now, in my opinion, he intends to set out from. Antium for Asia. Not to detain you, this visit gave me no other comfort than tiie consciousness ot having done my duty, for it would have been highly improper for me not to have seen him before he left Italv, Having thus discharged what I owe to the love and kindness I bear him, I may say to myself^ Tdl me, O ! my guardian angely of what avail has been this journey which I undertook at thy suggestion ? ^ The vessel in which the enemies of tyranny hav3 embarked, is not only leaky, but is fallen into pieces. They have among them nei-r ther concord, reason, nor regularity. For this reason, had I not been determined before, this must have fixed me in the resolution of flying to a land where the report of such doings w onld never reach my ears. Meanwhile, in case you do not know it already, I was informed last night that Dolabella has given me a deputation under himself, dated the 2d of April^, for I think you were against my ac- cepting a votive legation. It was indeed absurd for me, after my country was ruined, to pretend to * There must either be a mistake in this date, or the com- mission must have been anti-dated. TO ATTICUS. S83 to perform the vows which I made for her preser- vation. Besides, if I mistake not, those kinds of legations are limited to a certain time by the Julian law ; nor is it an easy matter for the per- son, who enjoys them, to be at liberty to enter and leave Rome when he pleases, which 1 c an do in my present situation. It is a delightful thing to enjoy this liberty for five years. But what do 1 talk of five years, I probably shall be free from the cares of life long ere then. Let us, however, dismiss ill-boding apprehensions. EPISTLE XIL I AM pleased with what you tell me of your bu- siness at Buthrotum. Meanwhile, I have sent Tyro to Dolabella with a letter, because you re- quested it That can do no harm. As to our friends at Antium, I suppose you are convmced from what I already wrote to you, that they are determined to remain inactive, and to accept of Antony's insulting favour. Cassius spurned at the corft commission, and Servilia told him, that she would get it cancelled by a resolution of the senate. As to our friend Brutus, he is resolved, -*,ith an air of complacency, to go to Asia, after being of my opinion, that he could not live safely 284 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 285 at Rome^, for he chooses to have his exhibi- tions celebrated in his absence. He is collect- ing ^ The Greek expression, in the original here, makes Mon- sieur Mongault think it to be a compliment to the steadiness and unconcern of Brutus, especially, says he, as Braius was of Cicero's opinion as to the danger of his living at Rome. But I cannot agree with that gentleman. The expression, Ka< /x«A« «r8ft»oj (Et valde gravis) was certainly made use of to denote a person marching along in great state and gravity with a con- sciousness of his own merit and importance. Plutarch, in his Life of Cicero, makes use of the same expression, when he de- scribes him, attended by almost all the people of Rome, return- ing to his own house from punishing the accomplices in Cati- line's conspiracy. Besides, notwithstanding all the compli- ments which our author is in a manner forced to pay to Bru- tus, I never can be brought to believe that he either sincerely loved or esteemed him, nor did he ever miss an opportiinityof sneering at him when he could. As to their agreeing together in their opinion on this head; if the reader attends to our au- thor's sense of the conspirator's conduct, he may easily perceive, that the advice he gives them here, was no other than the result of hi.5 hearty contempt of theirmanagement. He more than once tells Atticus, that all their measures were childish, nor does he think he can put Brutus in a more ridiculous light, than by making him resolve to accept of this insulting commission, and to set out upon it, as if in reality it had been doing him an honour: but, in fact, our author was not in the secret of Bru- tus, as appeared by the sequel of his conduct. He had great resentments against Antony, who had rendered it unsafe for him to remain at Rome j and he was very sensible that the leave which he and Cassius had obtained from the senate, to be absent from thence, and which Antony agreed to, was artfully obtained by Antony himself, that he might remain master of Rome. In fact^ therefore, it was very wise in Brutus to » 4 ihg vessels to carry him over. Meanwhile they are not to leave these parts. Brutus, at least, told me, he was going to Astura. Lucius Anto- nius has written a very handsome letter to me, desiring me not to be alarmed at any thmg. This is one favour he does me, and perhaps he will do me another, if he does not come to Tus- culanum. These things are not to be borne, and yet bear with them we must. Which of the Bruti are we to blame ! So far as 1 can perceive, Octavianus has sufficient courage, and his dis- position, towards our heroes appear to be such as we could wish them to be. But it requires great deliberation before we trust one of his years, his name, his family, and his education. His step-father, at least, whom I saw at Astura, thinks that we ought not at all to confide in him We must, however, cherish him with the hope of our confidence, were it only to separate • him from Antony. I will say, that Marcellus has done nobly, if he has prepossessed him in favour of our friends, and I can assure you, he seemed to dissemble his resentments, and even to accept of this com commission, which gave him an opportunUy ot gettrng together 8ome ships. Antony, according to Jpp^an deBel. Czv. U.nu seemed to be sensible of this ; for in the speech he there makes to the military tribunes, we find him complaining agamst the senate for bestowing this commission upon Brutus and Cassms, as being no other than a pretext for their getting together the* friends and soldiers. 286 CICERO^S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 287 IHt seemed to be entirely inilueQced by him, and not over-much by Pansa and Hirtius. His views are unexceptionable, if they continue unal- tered* EPISTLE XIIL v-/n the 24th I received two letters from you, and shall begin with that of the oldest date. I agree with you that I ought neither to lead the van, nor bring up the rear. Let me, however, assist in the march. I have sent to you my speech \ and I leave you at liberty either to sup- press or to publish it But when do you think it will be proper to do the latter? I think the truce which you mention to be impracticable. My best way will be to remain silent ; I therefore think of making no reply. You write me that two legions* are arrived at Brundusium. You always receive the news before we do. Write therefore whatever you hear. I expect to see Varro'a * I entirely agree with Monsieur Mongault, that this was a speech our author had composed by way of invective against Antony and his party^ but which was not to be published be- fore a favourable turn should happen to the republican interest. * They were brought over firora Macedon by Antony's order, to assist them in dispossessing Decimus Brutus of the Cisalpine Gaul (Vide jippian de BeL Civ. lib. iii.) and to oppose the elect consuls, Hirtius and Pansa, who seemed, by no means, well dis- posed to his interest. Varro's dialogue. I am now fond of the man- ner of Heraclides, especially as you are so much pleased with it But I should be glad to know how you think I ought to manage the subject. I am the more inclined to it from what I wrote you formerly, especially as you have strength- ened your opinion, to which I was no stranger, with that of Peduceus, which always will have a powerful weight with me. I shall, therefore, be- stow upon the subject the united force of mj talents and industry. Conformably to your request, I shew every favour to Vectenus and Faberius. I believe Claelius had no bad intentions, but a person can- not be too much upon his guard. I entirely agree with you in your sentiments about preserv- ing our liberty, which certainly is the dearest of all human enjoyments. — And has Gallus Ca- ninius^ been treated in that manner? — ^Tlliat a profligate villain he is, for what other appellation can I give him ? Marcellus* is sufficiently cau- tious. I do my best likewise, but I am not so much upon my guard. I have now answered your first Und longest letter. To your second and shortest, what can I say, but that it gave me infinite pleasure? The affairs 1 He was a friend to our author, and probably had received some injury from Antony. 2 This was Marceilus the consular, who bad retired from Rome, and took no concern in party matters. 288 CICEROS EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 289 lli ft* affairs of Spain are in a fair way, provided I cait but see Balbilius ' in health and prosperity, for I consider him as the staif of my old age. I am sorry for what has happened to Antonianus, be- cause Visellia is greatly attached to me. But we are born to accidents of that kind. You tell me you know nothing of Brutus. But I understand from Silicia, that Marcus Scaptius is arrived, but conceals himself; that he is to see her pri- vately, and that I shall know every thing. When I do, I will instantly acquaint you. Meanwhile, the same lady informs me % that a slave of Bassus is arrived, who tells her that the Alexandrian legions are in arms ; that they have invited Bas- sus ' to their assistance, and that Cassius is ex- pected. In short, our country seems now to be in the way of recovering her freedom. But we should 1 He very probably was the son of Balbus, and one of Ci- cero's friends. There are, in this Epistle, several other allu- sions to private affairs, of which we know nothing. 2 Monsieur MongauU very properly agrees with Graevius, that the original here ought to be read Mer ea narrat eadem. But he will have eadem to be the ablative, and via to be under- stood, and he translates it accordingly. This surely cannot be Cicero's meaning; for why should a slave of Bassus come along with Scaptius, who wanted to remain incognito? Be- sides the construction is forced, and I have therefore under- stood it to be the nominative, by which all difficulties of the sense are removed. 3 He is mentioned before in the Qth letter of the I4tb Book. should not be too confident of success^ You know how well the other party is experienced in all the arts of treason and violence. 1 am greatly pleased with Dolabella ^, and yet, while I am writing this, now that the second course is put upon the table, I understand that he is arrived at Baiae, though I received a letter from him as I was coming out of the bath, which he writ to me from Formias, informing me, that he had done every thing I required, for securing to me the payment of the money he owed me. The blame that it was not done sooner, he lays upon Vectenus ; I suspect that it is his design, as is usual with such men, to defraud me'. But he tells me, that that excellent person, and my very good friend Sestius, has undertaken the whole affair. But give me leave to ask you what Sestius could ^ Orig. Se ne quid ante. Which Monsieur Mongault trans- lates Pourvu que les partizans d'Antoine ne vousprevennentpas. But I think both the words and the connection, more naturally point to my sense. 2 Who had promised to serve Atticus in his Buthrotian affair. 3 Orig, Tricatur scilicet, ut homo talis. Which Monsietir Mongault understands of Vectenus 3 but I can, by no means, be of his opinion. The word Tricari is properly applied to those who shuffle off the payment of money without refusing it 3 nor is the expression Jwmo talis, as Monsieur Mongault supposes, always made use of to denote contempt j and fi*om what fol- lows in this paragraph, I tliink it very plain, that Dolabella i» here mentioned. Voi. III. U 090 CICERO'S^ EPISTLES could do in this matter, that might not have been done by any one of us ? However, if things should fall out beyond my expectation, let me know. If the whole affair is desperate, as I sup- pose it is, inform me by a letter, for it will give me no great concern. I am now pursuing the study of philosophy, and I am engaged in a splendid work upon the moral duties, which I address to my son, as the most proper present a father can give to a child. I will afterwards pursue other studies. In short, I shall have something to show for my thus re- tirin for I do not suppose that I shall be able to bear with his proposed mother-in-law^. I have refu- sed Pindarus the farmer of the revenue in positive terms. Now * Our author, as we have already seen had no very good opi- nion, and his brother a far worse ofHirtius and Pansa, who were consuls elect for the next year. « All this is private history, and the particulars are not now to be recovered. Only k is probable, that our author had a wife in his eye for his son. Vol. III. Y S£2 CICERO'S EPISTLES Now you must understand the reason why I sent this express. Our nephew promises to be- have like another Cato, and both he and his father have been soliciting me to answer to you for his good behaviour, but upon condition, that you are not to trust him till you try him. I shall give him a letter to you in conformity to his request, but you are not to mind it, and I have sent you . this lest you should think that he has been able to make any impression upon me. * May heavens grant him to perform what he promises, which will give joy to us all ! But I will say nothing farther to you. He leaves this place on the 9th, that he may, as he says, on the 15 th pay some money, which is demanded of him with great earnestness. By what I now write, you will be able to judge how you ought to answer my letter. I will write you farther by Eros when I see Bru- tus. I am satisfied with the apology of Attica, who is very dear to me, and I offer my compli- ments to her and your wife. EPISTLE II. On the 10th I received two letters from you, one by my own letter-carrier, and another by that of Brutus. You give us an account of the Buthrotians, very different from what we had in this country. But we must put up with that as well TO ATTICUS. 82S Well as with many other things. I have sent back Eros sooner than 1 intended, both that I might have somebody to pay Hortensius, and be- cause he says, that he appointed to pay the mo- ney to the commissioners of the treasury on the 15th \ As to Hortensius, his demands are very impudent. For there is nothing due to him but from the third payment, which is to be made on the 1st of August, and most of that payment has been made before it became due. With regard to Publilius, I think, the draft I am to give him will be answered upon sight, as soon as it becomes due^ But when you see how much I have given up of my own right, when of three thousand pounds which was due to him, I paid four hundred thousand sesterces in ready money, and am to give him drafts for the rest, you may endeavour, if you think proper, to prevail with him to accept of such a time for the payment of those * Orig. Equitihus. We are in the dark, as to this passage. These equites were the monied men of Rome, and possibly Publilius, or some of Cicero's creditors, had given them a draft upon him. 2 I have translated this very differently from Monsieur Mon- gault. It appears to me, as if one half of the money, here men- tioned, had been paid in cash, which Cicero was not obliged strictly to have done, and that he was to have given drafts or assignments for the remainder. And all the favour he asked of Publilius was, that he might not be obliged to give them for too short a time. Y2 324 CIGfeRO'S EPISTLES Uiose drafts, as may suit my conveniency, especi- ally as I have given up so much of what I might have insisted upon by law. But my dear, dear Atticus, you see how I can coax when I have an end to answer. I beg, while you are at Rome, that you will manage, direct and govern all my af- fairs without my being concerned in them in the least. For though in the main, my other funds linswer pretty exactly \ yet it often happens, that ones debtors are not so punctual. Should any thing of diis kind happen, let my credit be your first and only consideration. You are not only to borrow money, but to sell my effects to sup- port it, should there be occasion. Brutus was greatly delighted with your letter. For soon after I received it, I spent several hours with him at Nesis. He seemed quite pleased with Tereus^ and exprest himself to be more obliged to Accius, the author of the piece, than to Antony, the president at the play. Now, my opinion is, that the more public joy that is ex- pressed * I have likewise differed from Monsieur Mongault in the meaning of this passage. The original is, Quamquam enim reliqua satis apta sunt ad solvendum ; tamen fit scepe, ut it qui debent non respondeant ad tqmpus. Which he translates, Jc laisse assez de funds; mais comme mes detiteurs pourroient ne pas payer exactemerit, , ^ ,^_ ^ « ~ iThis was a play composed oy Accius Naevius, exhibited at Brutus's shows, in which many strokes against tyranny were greatly applauded by the people. TO ATTICUS. 325 pressed, the greater ought to be our indignation and grief, that the Roman people should employ their hands in applauding theatrical exhibitions rather than in defending their country. The^r, applauses, I imagine, will b^ye the effect of pro- voking our enemies to hasten the execution oi their villainous measures. But let them grieve, it matters not from what cause, provided they have cause to grieve. I am pleased with your telling me, that my re- solution is approved ofevery day more and more^^ ar^d I am impatient to hear farther from you ou. that subject, for 1 have heard various opinions, respecting it. This was the reason why I was so long in coming to any final resolutipii. Bu.t as I am now in a manner goaded out of Itajy,! think of embarking at Brundusium ; for it would be both more easy and more practicable for me to avoid the enemy s troops, than the pirates who are said to infest those coasts. This day 1 look for Sestius, but I do not yet hear of his arrival. Cassius is here with his little squadron. After I have seen him to-morrow I intead to go to Pom peii, and then to Aculanum. You know the rest of my rout. I am not disappointed in what you tell me of Tutia. I am as easy as you are about that affair of iEbutius, to which, I give no credit. 1 have (only because you desired me) written to Plan- cus and Oppius. Perhaps, when you have read my letter 326 CICERO'S EPISTLES letter to them, you will not think it necessary to deliver it For as all they have done is done on ' your account \ lam afraid, they will think my letter unnecessary; at least, it may appear so to Oppius, Mhom I know to be your intimate friend. But you are to do in that as you think proper. You give me great pleasure by informing me, thatyouare to pass the winter inEpirus, provided you are there before the time which you yourself have prescribed for my returning to Italy. Write to me as often as you can ; when you have no- thing of importance to write, you may trust your letter to any accidental conveyance; but send me every thing that is of importance express by one of my domestics. If I arrive safe at Brun- dusium^ the work projected on the plan of Hera- clides, * I again differ with Monsieur Mongault in his translaiioa of this passage. The original is. Cum. enim tua caussafecerint omnia, which he translates, Comme ils ontfait pour vous tout ce que vous souhaiiez, 2 I read the original >vith Monsieur Mongault, Sed noientur edogarii quos (viz, eclogarios -J but I differ with him in trans- lating, eclogarii; les plus beaux endroits. Neither he, nor any of the numerous commentators upon this passage have reflect- ed, that it appears by the end of the 14th epistle of the preceding book, that it wascustomar)' with Atticus to mark the exception- able passages of our author's compositions with a red pencil, and I can see no absurdity in applying that passage to this one, since the works mentioned in both are the same, nor in sup- posing our author to desire his friend to take the sense of any favourable company, who might be at his house, upon thosQ passages. TO ATTICUS. 327 elides, I will soon begin. I have sent you my treatise concerning glory. You will therefore, bestow upon it the care which you usually do on my other compositions. But let the excep»*> tionabte passages be marked, and when you have , got in company suitable auditors, Servius may read them, but only while they are exhilarated with wine. I am greatly delighted with them: myself, but I rather wish you were so. Aglin and again, farewel. EPISTLE III. Bl W 1 COME at last to answer your letter ; and you must know that I think you have acted wisely in meeting with Antony at Tibur, in seeming t6 agree with all his measures, and even returning him your thanks ; for your observation is just;^ that we must forfeit our liberty sooner than our property. Your telling me that you are more and more in love with my Treatise* upon Old Age, inspires me with additional ardour to- write You say, that you hope Eros will not cbme without some small present, and 1 am glad that you have not been disappointed in that respect Meanwhile, the work I have sent you is the same you 1 Orig, Tite si quid ego. These are the first words of that treatise. 4, 3S8 CICERO'S EPISTLES you saw before, but more correct, and. I send you the original copy corrected and improved in many passages. When you have got it hand- somely transcribed, you may read it in private to your guests; hut as you love me, put them in good humour, by a liberal entertainment, lest they discharge all their spleen at you in ill nature against me. I hope the accounts I have of my son are true; I will know all about that affair of Xeno, when I am upon the spot ; meanwhile, I cannot think he has acted either indolently or unhandsomely. I will take your advice concerning Herodes; and I shall inform myself of what you mention, by Saufeius and Xeno. I aqa glad that you received the letter about our nephew, which I sent yo^ \^y the express, sooner than that which I sent you by himself. ---You would not, however, hav^ been imposed qpon — but it is as well as it is. — I long to knoiy .what he s^aid to you, and you to him. — Both of you, I suppose, went on in your old way. But I am in hopes to receive an account of that in the letter \ am to get by Curius, who though be is in himself amiable and dear to me, is become doubly so, through your recprnm^A^a- tion. — So much in answer to your letter* I am now tp acquaint you with what I am sen- sible is unnecessary for me to write, yet write it I must. I am shocked with a great many cir- cumstances in my leaving Italy ; and indeed, the chief TO ATTICUS. S29 chief is, my being separated from you. I dread likewise the fatigues of the voyage, which become neither my age nor dignity, and the unfavour- able crisis, in which I am to set out. I leave my country in peace, to return to it in war ; and I spend, in rambling abroad, the time I might spend in my retired villas, which are elegantly built, and delightfully situated.— But on the other hand, I comfort myself with the thoughts that I shall eitlier be of service to my son, or he able to judge how far he is capable of improve- ment; and in the next place, with the hopes of seeing you according to your promise. Should, that happen, I shall think that every thing goes well with me. But above all things I am vexed with the thoughts of the debt I leave behind me; for though I have settled the funds for discharging it, yet the money owing to me by Dolabella, makes part of it, and I feel so uneasy on my being unacquainted with the circumstances of those on whom he has given me assignments, that this, beyond my other concerns, gives me pain. It was I think not amiss in me to write in plain t^ms to Balbus, desiring him to assist me in case it should happen that those assignments should not answer; and I have likewise begged the favour of you to speak to him, if any such thing should happen ; you will therefore, if you please, talk to 330 CICERO'S EPISTLES to him, especially as you are to set out for Epirus. I write this as I am preparing to embark at Pompeii, in three ten-oared gallies. Brutus is still at Nesis and Cassius at Naples. If you are in love with Dejotarus, are you not so with Hieras^ likewise, whoever since Blaesami us waited upon me, has neither spoken to our friend Sextus, nor to any of us, though he had express orders to do nothing but by his advice. — I feel desirous, though at this distance, to caress" my Attica, so dearly do 1 value the compliments she sent me in your letter. You will therefore return her many acknowledgments on my part, and the same to Pilia. EPISTLI 1 This is ironical, and alludes to a contract which this Hieras and Blaesamius, who were agents for.Dejotartis, had made in the name of their master for a large sum of money he was to pay to Antony upon his restoring to him the lesser Armeniae, which had been taken from him by Caesar. * Orig. Suaviare, which being a childish word, I have trans- lated it accordingly j nor is there any absurdity in those two great men, Atticus and our author, adopting the language of fondness upon such an occasion. TO ATTICUS. 831 h EPISTLE IV. A.S I told you yesterday, or perhaps not till to- day, (for our nephew said he would be two days upon the road) I was at Nesis on the 8th, where I saw Brutus. What pain did the nones of July give him ! It was amazing to see how much he was shocked. He therefore told me he would dispatch" an order to Rome, that the advertisement of thS hunting diversions, which were to be exhibited the day after the Apolinarian games, should be deferred to the 12th of Quintilis. While I was there Libo arrived, and told us that Philos Pom- pey, and Hilarius, his own freedman, were ar- rived with a letter from Sextus Pompeius to the consuls, if indeed they deserve that name^; and he read to us a copy of it, upon which I gave my opinion. There were some inaccuracies in the style, but in other respects, it was written with much propriety and moderation : I only recom- mended that as the letter was addressed to the consuls only, the superscription should be added, " To the prsetors, tribunes of the commons, and the senate," for fear the consuls should not pub- lish a letter which was directed to them alone. Now » Because they were not duly chosen, but nominated by Caesar. S33 CICERO'S EPISTLES Now, they told us that Sextus Pompeius had been atCarthage with a single legion, and that he received the news of Osaf s death the very day on which he took Borea ; that when the city was taken the news occasioned wonderful rejoicings, 9 general change in the public sentiments, and a resort to him from all quarters, but that he him- self was returned to join the six legions which he had left in the farther Spain. He had howevei; acquainted Libo by a letter that he would hear of no terms unless his own pa,lace was restored to him. The whole of his proposals consisted in bis demanding, that all the generals who at pre- sent command the armies, in whatever quarters they reside, should resign their commands. This is all I thi ik tiicit I have learnt of Sextus. I endeavoured, but without effect, to gain some information respecting the Buthrotians. Some say that the land-hunters are routed. — Others that Plancus has run away from them, after receiving a sum of money. I am conse- quently apprehensive that I must remain igno- rant how that matter stands, unless I very soon get a letter. My journey to Brundusium, of which I had some doubts, seems now to be quite stopt, for I am told that Antony's troops are upon their march that way. As to the voyage from hence, it will be dangerous to sail alone, and I will therefore sail in company with others. I perceive Brutus is in more forwardness for his departure TO ATTICUS. 935 departure than I heard of. For Domitius has with him a good squadron, and the vessels of Sestius Lucilianus, and others are in very good condition. As to Cassius's fleet, which is mdeed a fine one, it can be of no service to me beyond the Strcights of Sicily. I am vexed that Brutus seems not at all disposed to hasten his vovage. In the first place he will wait, till he hears tha^ his exhibitions at Rome are finished. In the next pkce, so far as I understand, he will sail very slowly, and stop at a great many places. But I think it is better to sail slowly, than not to sail at all. And yet, after I have set out, I shall be more able to determine how I am to act. We shall have the Etesian winds. EPISTLE V. / IJRUTUS is now looking out for a letter from you, and I gave him the first news of the success of Attius's Tereus. He thought that a play en- titled Brutus hjid been acted. But it was sene- rally expected, that an entertainment, represented in imitation of the Greeks, would not attract a crouded audience. This was no more than I apprehended, for you know what opinion I have t)f Greek piays. Now I must inform you of a circumstance more interesting to us than any thing else can be. Our nephew^ 334 CICERO'S EPISTLES nephew has been with me for several days, and had I desired it, he would have been longer ; but, so long as he staid, you cannot imagine how much 1 was charmed with him in every respect, espe- cially upon thti point of which we were most doubtful. His sentiments are entirely changed by the works which I was then composing ; by the repeated conversation, and the rules I laid down to him, so that for the future, his conduct in public matters will be regulated by your wishes. He did not merely assure, but he con- vinced me, of this, and he was extremely earnest with me to undertake for him to you, that he would yet do credit to us all. Meanwhile, he does not desire to be trusted at first sight, but that, upon proving hiin, you will give him your affection. Had I not been thoroughly convinced, had I not been entirely satisfied, that he will perse- vere, I would not have taken the step I am now to acquaint you of. You must know, 1 carried the young man to Brutus, who was so con- vinced of his sincerity, was so persuaded of the truth of what I wTite, that he declined to take me as a security for his future behaviour. Brutus, amidst the caresses he bestowed upon liim, mentioned you most affectionately, and at parting embraced him with tenderness. For this reason, though it would be more proper for me to compliment, than to entreat you, yet en- treat you I do, that if hitherto, through his un- experienced TO ATTICUS. 335 experienced age, his character has been too much marked by levities and inconsistencies, you will now look upon him as thoroughly reformed, and be assured, that your authority will greatly, if not effectually, contribute towards fixing him in his present honourable sentiments. I took many opportunities to mention to Brutus my wish to sail along with him, but he did not seem so desirous of it as I imagined he would be. I believe he was somewhat undetermined, and 90, indeed, he was, chiefly on account of his plays. But upon returning to my house, Cnaeus Lucceius, who is very intimate with Brutus, told me, he was very dilatory, not that he had changed his resolution, but that he was still waiting to see what might happen. For this reason, I am in some doubt whether! shall go to Venusia, and there wait the movements of Antony's troops, and if, as some people think, they are not to march that way, I will go to Hydruntum. But if I am safe neither way, I will return hither. You, perhaps, think I am not serious, but may I perish, if any thing detains me but yourself. Well may you avert your face,* for indeed, I blush at what I say. How aptly has Lepidus appointed th^ days for examining the auspices, and how exactly do they coincide with the time when I propose to return. I am greatly encou- raged by your letter to be gone. I wish I could see you there. But let that be as is most convenient for you. I expect 336 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 537 I expect a letter from Nepos. What! is he who thinks that manner of writing, in which I chiefly pride, not fit to be read, become so very fond of my 'ement you have given me. But I can neither • begin, nor complete it, without your assistance; we^must therefore reserve this subject till we meet. Meanwhile I beg you will let me know in a let- ter, under what censors, Caius Fannius, the son of Marcus, was tribune of the commons. 1 think I have heard he was under Publius Africanus and Lucius Mumming. Pray set me right, if I am mistaken. I beg you will write me certain and true accounts of all public occurrences. Da- ted th 1 1th from my house near Arpinum EPISTLE XIV. I REALLY have nothing to write to you ; for when I was at Puteoli, 1 daily heard some news con- cerning Octavianus, and many false reports con- cerning Antony. In answer to your letters, three of which I received on the 11 th, I entirely agree with you, that should Octavianus come into pow- er, the acts of Csesar will receive a firmer sanction than they did in the temple of Tellus ; and this will turn out to the disadvantage of Brutus. But should Octavianus be worsted, you will find An- tony an intolerable tyrant; thus, one does not know which to wish for. What a rascal was that messenger of Sestius, for f 35S CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. SA9 for promising to be at Rome the day after he left Puteoli ! You advise me to proceed with mild*- ness and caution, and I agree with you, though I had some thoughts of doing otherwise. The ex- amples of Philip and Marcellus^ make no im- pression upon me. Their motives either are, or seem to be, different from mine. Young Caesar has sufficient courage ; yet he has no great au* thority. Meanwhile, you will consider whether it will not be convenient for me to be at Tuscu- lanum, where I can live with more freedom, and be well informed of every thing that passes, or whether I ought not to remain here till Antony's arrival at Rome. But to pass from one thing to another, I have no manner of doubt that our w^ord officium an^- swers to the Greek term Ka^»))w>. As to your doubt whether that word can be properly applied to public matters, do we not say Consulum officii urn, Senatus officium ? I think it is a very proper word, unless you can furnish me with one that is more so. Your melancholy news of the death of Nepos's son, gives me indeed great concern and affliction. I was quite ignorant that he had a son. I have lost Caninius, who, I speak for my- self, was by no means an ungrateful person. You have * Both those noblemen were nearly related to young Caesar, the first being his father-in-law, and the latter his brother-in- law, notwithstanding which, they had not broken off all measures with Antony. have no need to press Athenodorus; for he hath sent me a memorial which is politely enough drawn up. I beg you would employ every means to remove your indisposition. Our^ nephew has written to my son, that, upon the 5th of Decem- ber, (the aniversary of my glory) ' he will lay before the people, the whole affair of the temple of Ops. You will learn what he means, and let me know by a letter. I expect to have the opinion of Sextus upon my oration. EPISTLE XV. You are not to imagine that from indolence! do not indite with my own hand this letter to you, and yet, I avow, I have no other excuse to offer but that I am indolent Meanwhile, I think I can, in your lett>.rs, trace out the hand-writing of Alexis; but to come to business. Had not Dolabella be- haved to me very dishonestly, I might have been in some hesitation, whether I should deal with gentleness 1 Orig. (^uintus avi tuipronepos.scribit adpatris mei Nepo* tern. We have already seen instances of this whimsical v^ay of writing, which, more than probable, was owing to some pri- vate piece of humour in Atticus, which is not now to be ac- counted for. 2 By his putting to death the accomplices in Catiline's con- spiracy. i. S60 CICERO'S EPISTLES gentleness or rigour with him. But now I am overjoyed that I have an opportunity of making him, and all the world, sensible, that I have no affection for him, and I will publicly avow that I hate him, both on my own account, and on account of my country; because, after I had persuaded him to espouse her cause, he not only abandoned it, but did all he could to ruin it, from interested motives. You ask me, what I would have done, when the day of payment comes\ In the first place, I wish that matters were so ordered, that I could, without any inconvenience, be at Rome in person, but in this, as in all other matters, I will be guided by your judgment. However, in the main, I would have him brought to a strict and rigo- rous account. I think, we cannot without dis- honour, compel his sureties, but I wish you to .take this into consideration ; for we can compel his sureties to pay by an action brought against his agents, who will not stand a trial. By such an action, I am sensible, the sureties will be li- berated from their responsibility ; but I think, it will be shameful in him, if his agents should not discharge a debt, for which he himself has en- gaged sure-ties; and it is inconsistent with my rcputatioq ^ All this relates to a debt due to our author by Dolabella, ;is the arrears of Tullia's portion, which the laUer ought tQ imi^ refunded when he divorced her. TO ATTICUS. 361 reputation to betray a vindictiveness of temper against him, in reclaiming my property. I beg you will let me know your sentiments on this subject; and I make no doubt, that it will be managed with great moderation, 1 now return to the affairs of the public. I have, it is true, seen many proofs of your profound skill in politics, but none beyond your last letter, where you say, ^' Though at present, the boy makes a gallant opposition to Antony ; yet we ought to wait the event;" but what an ha- rangue has he made^ to the people ! for it was sent to me. He there swears, *' so, says he, may I attain the honours of my parent," stretching forth his right hand at the same time, to the statue of Ceesar. I have no wish for such a saviour*. But the most indubitable criterion will be the tribuneship of Casca. I delivered the same opinion to Oppius ; for when he pressed me to declare withoutany reserve for the young man and his interests, and for his body of veterans, I told him, I could by no means do that, till I was quite satisfied that, so far from opposing, he w^ould befriend the destroyers of the tyrants. When Oppius told me, that Octavius would do §0, *' then, where, said I, is the necessity for my hastily * l^z. In the temple of Castor and Pollux. ^ He gave the first blow, in the^ naurder of Caesar. Not- fi'itbstanding which Octavius did not oppose his being tribune. 362 CICERO'S EPISTLES hastily declaring myself, since he can have no occa- sion for my assistance before the first of January ? Now, we can be quite convinced of his intentions by the 13th of December, from his behaviour in the affair of Casca. Oppius agreed to all I said. I have therefore Utile more to write to you on this head; only, that you will every day have op- portunity of writing to me ; and I believe, every day will present you with something fresh to write. I have sent you a copy of Lepta's let- ter, by which it appears that our hero is discom- fitted. But you shall read it, and judge for yourself. After this letter was sealed up, I received one from you, and another from Sextus, and nothing can be more agreeable or affectionate than his is. As to yours, it was short, though the former a very full one. You advise me like a man of sense, and a friend, to remain where I am till I learn the event of our present public commotions. But, my Atticus, it is not, indeed it is not, any public consideration that determines me at pre- sent. For though the public is, and ought to be to me, the dearest object of my regard; yet Hip- pocrates forbids us to use medicine when the dis- ease is irremediable. I take my leave therefore, of public affairs. What affects me, is the state of my private concerns, and the regard I have for my own credit; for though my resources are so large, I have not yet been able to pay to Terentia what I ow« TO ATTICUS. 363 I owe her. But why do I talk of that ? You know, it is some time since I promised to pay for Montanus twenty-five thousand sesterces. My son, in the most genteel manner, begged that favour of me, and said, he would look upon it as done to himself. Knowing that it would be agreeable to you, I promised it most readily, and ordered Eros to lay by the money ; but he was so far from doing it, that Aurelius was obliged to raise it at a most exorbitant interest. As to Terentia's debt, I understand by a let- ter from Tyro, that you say, the money owing me from Dolabella will be equal to her demand. He has a mistaken understanding, if I may be allowed the expression of your words, or rather, he does not understand them at all ; for you sent me the answer of Cocceius on that head, and I had a letter from Eros, to the same purpose. I must therefore come to Rome, if I should be in- volved in its flames. For it is more glorious to die with my country, than by myself. Distracted as I feel in myself, I am at present unable to an- swer with my usual serenity, the other matters, mentioned in your most affectionate letter to me. I beg you will take care that I may be extri- cated from my present situation. Several expe- dients for that purpose occur to myself. But be- lieve me, I can fix positively upon none till I see you. IPISTLE 364 CICERO'S EPISTLES EPISTLE XVL 1 HAVE read your most agreeable letter, and send you a copy of what I have written to Plan- cus, I shall know from Tyro himself, what passed between you and him. You will be able to shew your sister more attention after having finished the business at Buthrotum. Cicero to Plancus Praior, wisheth health, I AM very sensible, how gladly you would em- brace an opportunity of obliging Atticus. Not to mention, that I believe you to be so much my friend, that very few excel you in your re- gard and affection for me. A strong, an old, and a virtuous friendship, subsisted between your father and me ; and this receives additional ar- dour from the mutual good will which we cherish for each other. You are no stranger to the af- fair of Buthrotum, it being a subject which I have often treated of, and fully explained to you. Its present situation is as follows: As soon as it was understood, that the lands of Buthrotum were to be divided among the soldiers, Atticus was so much alarmed, that he drew up a remonstrance TO ATTICUS. 3f)5 remonstrance which he put into my hands to give Csesar, with whom I was to sup that evening. I accordingly presented it to Caesar ; who ap- proved of its contents, and signified in a letter to Atticus, that he sought no more than what was just, cautioning him at the same time, that the Buthrotians should pay their arrears as soon as they became due. Atticus, from the zeal he had to preserve their state, laid down the money for them out of his own pocket. This being done, we went to Caesar, whom we addressed in the name of the Buthrotians, and he gave us a full decree in their favour, which was attested by several persons of the highest rank. As mat- ters stood upon this footing, I own, that I was a good deal surprised, that Caesar should suffer those who hunted after the Buthrotian lands, to hold their meetings; and even appoint you to have the chief direction of that affair. I there- fore talked to him upon it so often, and in such a manner, that he charged me with mistrust in his veracity. At the same time, he assured Mar- cus Messala, and Atticus himself, that they might be quite easy on that head ; and he gave explicit intimations, (for you know how attentive he was to points of popularity) that he was unwilling to do any thing to irritate the soldiery, vvhile they were in Italy; but as soon as they got be- yond seas, he would take care that they should jbe settled in other lands. The affair stood thus at $66 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 367 at his death. When that happened, as sooii as the consuls by a resolution of the senate, assumed a judicial capacity upon the validity of Caesars acts, the state of this affair, as I have represented it to you, was laid before them. They, without the least hesitation, appro^jed of all that had been done, and they said, that they would write to you upon that subject. Now, my dear Plancus, though I am con- vinced, that you will pay great regard to the re- solution of the senate, to the law, to the decree, and to the letter of the consuls ; and though I am convinced of your willingness to oblige At- ticus himself in this affair, yet I presume so far upon the intimacy and friendship that subsist between us, as to beg, as a favour, the thing which your unrivalled good nature, and polite- ness of manners, would not suffer you to deny. The favour is this, that you would cheerfully, unreservedly, and immediately do, what I know you would do, were no person to solicit you. No man is more intimately united in the ties of friendship, society and afi'ection, than is At- ticus to me. His private interest was deeply in- volved in this affair before, but now it concerns his reputation likewise, that he may make good by vour assistance, what he had before with great pains and interest obtained, both in Caesar's time, and after his death. Should he succeed in this by vour means, you may depend upon it, my • sense sense of your generosity will be such, that I shall think myself indispensably bound to acknow- ledge the greatness of the favour. I shall be ready always with the greatest zeal and readiness, to serve you in all your concerns. Adieu. Cicero to Plancus Pro£tor, wisheth Health. JLt is some time since I requested you by a let- ter, to give your assistance in the affair of the Buthrotians, which was confirmed by the consuls, who had authority both by the law, and a reso- lution of the senate, to examine, resolve, and judge, upon the acts of Caesar; and that you would deliver from uneasiness, our friend At- ticus, for whom I know, you have a kindness, and myself, who am, as anxious, as he is, about this affair. The whole business, after much la- bour and difficulty, has been here settled to our satisfaction, it depends upon you to put a final period to all ou% anxiety. Meanwhile, we are convinced, that a man of your good sense, must see the great and general confusion, that must ensue, if no regard shall be paid to the decrees of the consuls, which passed upon the acts of Caesar. It is true, many of them were not con- firmed, which must have necessarily been the case under so great a pressure of public business, j^ 368 CICEROS EPISTLES TO AtTICtJS. 3 69 yet I always was a strenuous advocate for tlieif confirmation from the love of peace and tran- quillity. Now, though this letter is not meant to persuade, but to petition you, yet I am of opi- nion, that you ought to be in the same way of thinking. Therefore, my dear Plancus, I beg, nay, 1 solemnly entreat you, with all the zeal and ardour of which my mind is susceptible, so to act in this affair, as in every respect to express, not only your acquiescence, but evert yourjoy, at our having gained what we have gained from the consuls, without the least hesitation, through the mere justice and equity of our cause. Thfs will be a fresh proof of those assurances of frien^dship for Atticus, which you often expressed to him in person, and likewise to me ; and it will be a farther inducement for me, who have been always your friend, through my own inclination, and the regard I had for your father, to own that you laid me under the strongest obligations. J, therefore, again and again, in the most earnest manner, beg your compliance. Cicero Cicttb to his Friend Capito, 'niisheth Health. JNl EVER did I think the time would come, that 1 should apply to you as a suppliant. But I pro- test, lam glad to have this opportunity of put- ting to the proof your affection for me. You know, how gfeat my regard is for Atticus. As you love me, do me the favour for my sake to forget, that when one of his friends, but an eneiny to you, Was engaged in an affair, uponr which his reputation depended, Atticus embraced his interest Your good nature in the first place, is engaged to forgive this, for every man ought to defend his own friends ; in the next place, I conjure you, setting all consideration of Atticus aside, to grant this favour without any reserve, to your old Cicero, for whom you used to avow your friendship, that I may have a full proof of that great affection which I always believed you ntertained for me. After Caesar, by his decree, which was attested by me, and many other noblemen of the first rank, had entirely pardoned the Buthrotians, and intimated to us, that as soon as the soldiers, ta whom the lands had been assigned, were gone beyond sea, he would send a letter, marking out the settlements which they were to possess^ it happened unexpectedly, that he was dispatched Vot. III. B b cfilt s 370 CICERO'S EPISTLES out of the world. You were present when the consuls were obliged by a resolution of the senate to sit in judgment on the acts of Cassar. There- fore, you can be no stranger to ivhat afterwards happened, and that their consideration of this affair, was adjourned to the first of June. The resolution of the senate was strengthened, by a law passed the 12th of the same month, giving to the consuls the cognizance of all matters, that Caesar had intended, decreed, or executed. The cause of the Buthrotians was brought before them; and many of Caesar's acts were pro- duced ; at the same time, the consuls, according to the meaning of Caesar's intention, made a rule in favour of the Buthrotians, and Plancus was entrusted with the execution of it Now, dearCapito, as I am sensible of your usual influence over all with whom you are concerned, and far more, with a man so very obliging and good-natured as Plancus is, exert all your ef- forts, or rather all your arts of persuasion, to induce Plancus, whom I believe to be well- disposed to our cause, to patronise it with still greater ardour in consequence of your inter- position. The plain state of the affair, seems to be, that without obliging any man, Plancus has discern- ment and good sense enough, without hesitation, to support the decree of the consuls, who had the authority both of the law and senate's reso- lution, TO ATTICUS. 371 lution, to examine, and determine in this affair; especially as the authority of Caesar s acts, will become doubtful, should their power of cogniz- ance thus established, be weakened, and as not only they who are interested, but as they who condemn them, are willing to confirm them, for the sake of public tranquillity- Though the matr ter stands in this clear light, yet still, it wJU do service to Plancus, to defend our suit with ala- crity and readiness. » This he certainly will do, if you use your influence, which I have often ex- perienced, and those engaging arts, in which I know you are unrivalled ; that you will do this, is my most earnest request. Cicero to Cains CnpienniuSy wisheth Health. 1 HAD the greatest esteem for your father, and he had the greatest regard and affection for me; nor did I, most assuredly, ever doubt that you love me, for I have always loved you. I there- fore impress it upon you in the strongest manner, to relieve the Buthrotians, and to endeavour that our friend Plancus, may immediately confirm and execute the decree which the consuls made in their favour, when they had a power of regulating that affair both by a law, and a resolution of the senate. My dear Cupiennius, I again^^ a^nci again, entreat you to do me this favour. B b a Cicero S79 CICERO'S EPISTLES TO ATTICUS. 375 Cicero to Plancus Prcetor, wisheth Health, jL ASK your pardon, for writing to you so qftea upon the affair of the Buthrotians, after explain- ing it so fully to you in my former letters. This^ my dear friend, does not proceed from any dis- trust I have either of your generosity, or our friendship. But an affair pf very great consequence to our friend Atticus is in agitation ; nay, it con^ cerns his reputation, that the world should know he is able to obtain, that which C^sar granted in my hearing, and was witnessed by my hand, when I was present both when Ceesar made this decree and signified his intentions ; especially as it is now absolutely in your power, I will not say barely to execute, but to execute w ith zeal and cheerfulness, the decrees which the consuls made in* confirmation of Caesar's orders. Nothing can possibly give me greater pleasure, than your compliance with this request I am, it is true, in hopes, that before you re-- ceive this letter, you have complied with the conr tents of niy former ones, but I will never forbear soliciting you, until I am informed, that you have actually done it ; which I wait with the greatest impatience to hear, and then, I hope my Jpttprs to you, shall rim in a different strain, I mean mean, that of returning you thanks, for your very great favour. Should that happen, I assure yau, that the obligation will not lie 50 mudi upaa Atticus, whose interest is greatly concerned iip this affair, as upon me, who nOw take an equaj concern in its success. Adieu. Cicero to Capito^ xvisheth Health. X MAKE no doubt, that you are surprised, and even piqued, at my soliciting you so often upon the same subject; but the interest of At- ticus, the dearest, and in every respect, the most intimate of my friends, is deeply concerned in it. I am sensible of your zeal to serve your friends, and of their zeal to serve you. You can assist us greatly with Plancus. I know your good na- ture, and I know how well pleased your friends are to oblige you, and nobody can serve us in this affair more effectually than it is in your power to do. Our claim is well-founded, as . rests upon a decree of the consuls, connnuiug (a^sars measure, when both by a law and a rtsoiuiion of t;he senate, they took his acts under U. w cog- nizance. But we are convinced, that the whole matter now depends upon the generosity of your friend Plancus. And we hope, that in conside- ration Y^- \ 574 CICERO'S EPISTLES, &c \ ration of your kind interposition, and of the pub- lic good, he will confirm the decree of the con- suls, as well as from his readiness to oblige me. Favour us, therefore, my dear Capito, with your interest and assistance. This I solicit again, and again, in the most earnest manner. Farewel. 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