The familiar epistles of M.T. Cicero Englished and conferred with the: French Italian and other translations

THE SIXT BOOKE OF THE FAMILIAR EPISTLES OF M. T. CICERO. (Book 6)

Cicero to Aulus Torquatus. Epist. 1.

THough there be such a con∣fusion of all things, that e∣uery one is discontented with his fortunes, and that there's no man, that would not rather be any where, then where he is: neuer∣thelesse, I make no doubt, but that in these times, it greeues euery honest man, rather to bee in Rome, then any where else. For, though there is great affliction felt in all places, for the great

losse, both publike and particular, ne∣uerthelesse, the eies encrease greefe, when they are constrained to behold that, which others heare; neither doe they euer suffer vs to remoue our thoughts from miseries. Whereupon, though of nec••ssitie, seeing your ••elfe depriu'd of many things, you must needs be affected with great greefe: yet free your minde, from being gr••eu'd, because you are not at Rome; the which, as I heare, vexeth and troubleth you. For, though it may touch you neerely, that you are separated from your friends, and your owne fortunes; yet they st••nd in their vsuall state, nor would they be greatly better'd, by your being present. N••ither should you, when you remember your friends, de∣sire a particular fortune, or re••use that which is common. And, whensoeuer it happens, ô Torquatus, that you truely consider with your selfe; you shall not need to yeeld, either to desperation, or feare. For C••sar, who hi••herto, hath beene more vniust to you, then your dignitie requir'd, hath giuen euident testimonie, that he wishes you no more ill And thinke not, though he be grea∣ter then wee, that hee is any whit more ••ecure; the end of all warres being doub••full. For the one victorie I can∣not perceiue, that you are in any such danger, that is not as well euerie

mans ruine as yours. And for the other, I know you no waies stand in feare. It remaines that the generall perill of the Common-wealth, must needs peirce your heart; the which I turne to a kinde of consolation. And though learned men, prescribe many medi∣cines, for this so growen a disease; yet I feare, there is no other true comfort to be found, then that, which is appli∣ed from the fortitude of a mans minde. For if to liue well, and happily, it suffi∣ceth that a man haue a cleare consci∣ence, and doe all things conformable to Iustice: I thinke we cannot properly terme him vnhappie, who is priuie to his owne heart, that his secretest thoughts had neuer other obiect, then honestie. For I cannot imagine, that we left our country, our children, and our fortunes, for any hope of reward: but therein we thought that we discharg'd a certaine iust, pious, and requisite of∣fice, for the Common-wealth, and to our owne honor; not being so foolish, that we should repute victorie certaine. Whereupon if the same ensued, which formerly wee supposed might hap∣pen, when we did enter into the enter∣prize: we must not abandon our selues, as if somthing had hapned, we thought would neuer haue come to passe. Let vs therefore beleeue (as in truth we may) that those things are neuer blam'd

in vs, which proceed from Fortune, and not from our selues: and being exemp∣ted from this blame, we ought patient∣ly to vndergoe those disasters, vnto which, the life of man, is subiect. Out of which reasons I conclude, that there is no man so sunke in miserie, but that vertue is of power, to preserue him. But let the lot fall to whom it will, of euery side you haue hopes, if any hope re∣maine to publicke affaires. And here I remember, how you were wont, to re∣prehend my despaire; and to encourage me to that warre, whereunto you savv me going against my will. At which time I neuer condemn'd our reasons, but our course. For I saw, that we too late opposed those armes, which had been much strengthened by our selues. Wherefore I gaue counsell, that such a warre was to be auoided, wherein force preuailed aboue counsell; and violence, aboue reason. And when I said, that, that would ensue which did; I presa∣ged not what would come to passe: but onely feared lea••t those miseries should happen, which I saw were likely to fall out: especially, that if I should haue giuen my censure of one, of two ends, I would surely haue promised that, which was most certaine. For we were superior in those things, which are not vsed in fighting; but inferior in the ex∣perience of armes, and resolution of

souldiers. Now, assume you, I pray ye, that courage, which then you thought I was to take. All the fore-mentioned I haue vvritten, because your Philargyrus discoursing before with me, and mou'd as I thinke, out of loyall affection, he told me, how sometimes you would be transported with griefe, which you should by all meanes bridle: being as∣sured, that if the Common wealth re∣turne to her former estate, you may certainely hope, that you shall liue as honorably in the same, as any way is conuenient: and if she remaine desolate and oppressed, you shall haue no worse conditions therein then the rest. And this time, wherein vvee all continue doubtfull, and daunted, ought hereup∣on to seeme vnto you lesse grieuous, because you are in that Cittie, vvhere vertue grew, and was borne; vvhich teacheth vs, how to dispose, and order our liues. Then haue you Seruilius Sul∣pitius, whom you alwayes loued deare∣ly, whose louing and sage exhortations, you cannot want: and if we had fol∣lowed his authoritie and counsell, vve should neuer haue lost vvith armes in hand; but we should willingly haue yeelded, without comming to them. I haue spoken too much, vvhere perad∣uenture 'tvvas not requisite; that which most of all imports, I vvill tell you briefly. There is no man, to whom I

am more bound then to you. The ruine of this warre hath depriu'd me of those friends, to vvhom I vvas deeply oblie∣ged, as you can testifie. I knovv that at this instant, I beare no svvay. But be∣cause no man is so afflicted by misf••r∣tunes, but that he may, if he vvill be onely attentiue to one thing, vvorke some effect: I ••ssure you, I vvill imploy for you and your children, my coun∣cell, endeuour, and affection of heart, vvherein I vvill neue•• be wanting vnto you. Far••well.

Cicero to Aulus Torquatus. Epist. 2.

IF I vvrite seldomer to you, then I was vvont, 'tis not because I am forgetfull of you, but onely in that for the most part, I feele my selfe vnhealth••ull; though at this instant, I am reasonable vvell; and in that I am not in Rom••, vvhere I may vnderstand, whither any goe thither or not: vvher••upon be as∣sured, that I keepe you in memorie, and loue you better then ••uer I did; and I haue no lesse care of yours, then of mine ovvne occasions. If your matters hitherto, haue not obtained that good issue, which men wish't and expected,

vndoubtedly, you haue no reason, to grieue much thereat, considering the wicked condi••ion of th••se present times. For one of thes•• two things must needes happen; eyther that the Com∣mon-wealth shall alway••s be troubled with armes; & ••hat hauing l••id downe armes, s••e may once againe recouer breath•• or else ••••••t s••e must absolutely perish. If arme•• ••r••uaile, you need not fear••, either ••hose that ••ake you to fa∣uor, or others whom you haue assisted. If armes be laid aside by accord, or gi∣uen ouer by wea••in••s, or shal be violēt∣ly by the victors, taken out of the hand of the vāquish'••; in which of these kinds soeuer the Cittie doe respire; you shall returne to ••our place, and withall you shall enioy your Fortunes: But if euery thing come to ruine, and such an end happen, as Marcus Antonius, a very wise man feared euer since that time, that he foresaw the future discords; mis••rable, and most vnhappie doubtl••sse is the consolation, which I meane to giue you in this case•• especially to such a man, and such a cittizen, and neuerthe∣lesse very nec••ssarie: that no man must grieue for that which all others endure. What vertue may be in these few words (for I will not, ••or some respect, speake any further) if you shall but consid••r, as questionl••s you doe: you may, with∣out my lett••rs conceiue, that these tur∣bulent

seasons, may once cleare vp a∣gaine: but, in what state soeuer the Common-wealth stand, you need not be afraid: and if she be absolutely defa∣ced, in that you would not suruiue her, though you might, it is but reason, that with all patience, we should comport such an accident; especially being in∣nocent therein. But no more at this present. I should be very glad, if you would write vnto me, what you doe, and where you will be: to the end I may know whither to write, and whi∣ther to come. Farewell.

Cicero to Aulus Torquatus. Epist. 3.

IN the last letters, I was somewhat long, not that there was any need, but to testifie the loue, which I beare you. For your valour is so solide of it selfe, that no exhortation is necessary to su∣steine it: neither am I in a state, to com∣fort another, being depriu'd of all con∣solation. Wherefo••e at this present, I must be briefe: for if then it was not requisite to write at large; much lesse is it now: And if it were then necessary; let that which I haue written suffice; the rather because nothing new hath since

occurred. For though we haue newes euery day, the which peraduenture you heare also: yet all sort to that end, which I discerne as well by my vnderstand∣ing, as the things that we behold with our eyes. And yet I see nothing, the which I know not vnd••ubtedly that you likewise obserue. For though no man can presage, the euent of the bat∣taile: yet me thinkes I see it: and if I see it not, neuerthelesse, in that of ne∣cessitie one or other must vanquish, I conceiue what victorie will come to, as well in the one, as the other. And let fortune bend to which side she will, I perceiue such a scourge thereon de∣pending, that a man ought almost to seeke death to auoide it, with which some suppose to daunt vs. For a life de∣priued of Honor is no life: and death though it bring an end to a happie life, was neuer by wisemen reputed a mise∣rie. But you are in that Cittie, where the wals themselues, can tell you these things, and that more aboundantly, and with greater eloquence•• I assure you, though other mens miseries are but of small consolation, that you are in no greater danger, then any of those who∣soeuer, which either forsooke the war, or of others tha•• renewed it: These fight, and those stand doubtfull, who shall remaine victor: But this consola∣tion is of no great moment; behold an

other farre 'greater; the which I hope you will applie to your selfe; euen as I also doe. Nothing while I l••ue can af∣fflict me, being innocent o•• all off••••ce: and if I liue not, how can I feele any griefe? But I call to minde, that I re∣turne anew, (as they say) ••o bring owles to Athens. I haue, and euer will haue, the greatest care I can, of you, of yours, and your interests. Farewell.

Cicero to Aulus Torquatus. Epist. 4.

THere is no newes at all; and if there were, I know your Friends certifie you thereof: but of the future though it be hard to speake: neuerthe∣lesse a man may by imagination some∣times come neere it, when the matter is such, that a man may forecast the issue. At this time it seemes onely pro∣bable, that the warre will not long con∣tinue: though some are of contrarie opinion. I thinke that by this time some effect hath ensued: not that I know it certainely, but because wee may easily conceiue as much. First, euery man may expect the victorie; and of all bat∣tailes, the end is ambiguous. Then, the Armie both of one and other side is so

great, and so resolu'd to fight, as it is no great wonder though either of them vanquish. That opinion is euery day confirmed, that although the occasi∣ons of the warre bee different, yet be∣tweene their victories there will bee no great difference. One side wee know, by experience: on the other part, if Cae∣sar vanquish, there is no man who doth not forecast, how great feare the••e is like to be; both because it is prouoked, and in that it will haue armes in hand. And in relating this to you, if you think that I augment your griefe, whereas I should mittigate it with some consola∣tion: I confesse, that I finde no com∣fort in the common calamities, besides one; the which if you could embrace, were very great, and such as I euerie day make vse of: and this it is. That a man, when hee hath wrought all the good hee is able, ••ought not to bee di∣sturbed for any contrarietie, that may happen, not hauing deserued it. There∣fore, wee hauing alwaies aduised ••or the benefit of the Common-wealth, and being rather the blame of Fortune, then of our counsels, that things haue succeeded ill: and in a word; for so much as did belong vnto vs, we hauing neuer beene deficient; we ought to en∣dure that patiently which hath happen∣ed. But yet I will not bee perswaded, that I am able to comfort you, in these

common miseries, wherein a greater wit then mine is required to giue it; and singular vertue, to support it. Ne∣uerthelesse, euery one may easilie shew you, how in particular, you haue no occasion to complaine. For although Caesar hath beene more slacke in relea∣sing you from trouble, then we suppo∣sed: yet I know he carries a good af∣fection to you. For concerning others, I doe ••ot beleeue you expect my opini∣on. It remaines, that you grieue, be∣cause for so long time, you are f••r from your friends. This is certainely a great discontent: you being separated from the sweetest, and most pleasing chil∣dren in the world. But as before I wrote vnto you, it is now a time, when euery man esteemes his estate very vn∣happie, & rather desires to be in any o∣ther place, then where he is. I ••or my part repute my selfe most vnfortunate, for being in Rome; not onely because in all euils, it is more terrible to behold, then to heare: but in that being heere, I see my selfe exposed to all those acci∣dents, which may happen on a sud∣daine. Although to my selfe, who de∣uise alwaies to com••ort you, the know∣ledge of letters, to which I haue euer beene addicted, hath not afforded so great consolation, as the length of time. You may remember how much I haue beene grieued. Wherein the first com∣••ort

is, that I saw more then others; when I desired peace, although the conditions were vnequall. And though I presume not to haue pre∣saged out of my vnderstanding, but in that fortune was pleased to make me p••ognosticate that which ensued: ye•• I am delighted with this vaine praise of wisdome. I finde another consolation, which is common ••o vs both: that if I we••e now summon'd to the last period of life, I would not goe vnwilling: for I would thinke by death, to bring my afflictions to an end; and I should de∣part from that Commonwealth, wher∣in it auailes me not to liue. Besides this: I am now old: and I thinke I haue spent my yeares so well, that in one re∣spect, I should die with comfort; and in another, I should not take my selfe to be iniured, though I be forced to passe that period; whether nature her selfe hath almost conducted m••e. Finally, there hath died in this warre such a per∣sonage, and so many valiant men haue therein left their liues; that if wee were constrained to die, me thinkes it were indiscretion to r••fuse it. For my part, I propound vnto my self••, all accidents: and there is no euill so great, which I take not to bee neere at hand. But yet I feare not; the vexation being greater, which is caused by feare, then is the thing it selfe which we feare, wherein

there is not onely, no griefe, but wee shall finde, the last period of sorro••. But I'le goe no further: and peraduen∣ture I haue said more then was requi∣site. But, not any delight of many words, but meere good will, drawes my letters out too long. It displeas'd me that Seruius went from Athens; who because hee was your familiar friend, and one replenished with bountie, and wisedome, should I know, haue euer beene neere about you, and haue giuen you great comfort. My desire is, that as you ought, and your custome is, you would relie on your firme resolu∣tion. I will with all diligence, and care procure that, which I shall thinke to be beneficiall for you, and what may profitablie concerne, either your selfe, or yours. In doing whereof, I shall imitate your loue towards mee: but neuer arriue to [your] deserts. Farewell.

Cicero to Aulus Caecin••. Epist. 5.

WHensoeuer I see your sonne (and I see him euery daie) I offer, and promise him, my endeuour, and diligence; without exception, ei∣ther

of l••bour, employment, or time: but my authoritie, and fauor; with this exception: wherein I am able, or in what I can. Your booke I haue, and doe reade, and keepe most diligently. your goods, and state, cannot sit neerer my heart then they doe: and euery day I conceiue more hope, seeing many to labour faithfully therein: as I know certainely your sonne writes vnto you: who hath himselfe also the same hope. But for these things, which may bee foreseene by vnderstanding, I presume not to discerne further, then I perswade my selfe, that yo•• see, and conceiue. Yet neuerthelesse, because it may bee, that being dazeled with griefe, you may not so cleerely discerne, I thought good to write vnto you my opinion. The nature of things present, and the course of times is such, that this for∣tune cannot long stand with you, or with others: nei••her in a cause so iust, and vpon so good Cittizens so cruell an iniurie continue. To that hope ther∣fore, which in particular I haue of your selfe, not onlie for your valor, and dig∣nitie; (for these ornaments are in ma∣ny others) whereunto are added your owne proper q••alities, that is, an ••le∣uated wit, and singular vertue: Wher∣of Caesar, makes an high esteeme: And you could not haue stayed long in this fortune, if he had not thought himselfe

offended, by those worthie parts, for which you are to him most deare. But the prouocation of his minde, is euery daie mittigated, and groweth more calme. And I vnderstand from them, that conuerse hourely with him, that the opinion of your wit, will commend you greatly to his fauour. First of all therefore, see, that you be of an high, and resolute spirit; For you were borne of such a father, bred; and instructed after such a sort, as 'tis requisite for you to doe it. And then bee of constant hop••s, for the reasons aboue men••ion∣ed. And liue as••ured, that you shall command me vpon any of your owne, or your childrens occasions: euen as our ancient friendship, and my vsuall custome towards friends, and the ma∣ny benefits that I haue receiued from you require••h. Farewell:

Cicero to Aulus Caecina. Epist. 6.

I Know not how you remaine satisfi∣ed at my hands; in that I haue not written vnto you, as I stood bound; ••••∣well by our friendship, and many inter∣changeable offices; as ••ecause we were both of one, and the same Faction.

Questionlesse, both long since, and many times, I would haue written to you, but that expecting dailie better e∣uents, I desired rather to reioyce with you, then comfort you. Euen as short∣ly I hope to doe; which will minister me occasion to write againe vnto you. Now, though I am inform'd and hope, that you contest with Fortune, out of a resolute minde: yet I'le see, whether with these letters, I can adde vnto your forces. I know I am not fit to doe it: but that Authoritie which deriues from great loue, ought to operate very much. Neither will I attempt to com∣fort you, as one afflicted, and depriued of all hopes of safetie: but as a person, of whose safetie, I promise my selfe nei∣ther more nor lesse, then you heereto∣fore were wont to promise your selfe of mine. I remember when I was expel∣led by them, who thought they could not ••uine the Common-wealth, except I; were first supprest, that manie of my friends, who came out of Asia, where you were to see mee, told mee, how you affirmed, that I should be pre∣sently, restor'd, and with infinite ho∣nor. If you, through a certaine know∣ledge of Tuscan discipline, which you had learned from your Father, who was a noble, and honest Gentleman, tooke not your markes amisse: No more should my prognostication bee

false, being grounded vpon that, which many wise men haue written, and I haue read, as your selfe knowes, with exact diligence. Besides the apprehen∣sion I may haue therein, through my great experience in publike affaires, and for that which I haue obserued in my selfe; to which kinde of prognosticati∣on I giue so much the greater credit, because in present things, so obscure, and troublesome, it neuer deceiu'd me. I would speake of those things which I haue presaged, but that I will not seeme to haue now ••eyned that which is come to passe. Yet many can testifie, how in the beginning I aduised Pompeius, not to ioyne with Caesar: and afterwards that hee should not separate himselfe from him. perceiuing very cleerely, that ioyning with him, the authoritie of the Senate was much impaired; and being separated, a ciuill warre would grow. I was a great friend to Caesar, and I loued and honoured Pompeius: but a•• my counsell was loyall to Pom∣peius, so both to one, and other it was profitable. Many other things passed, which I foresawe. Because I would not that Caesar, to whom I was much bound, should know, that if Pompeius had obserued my directions, he should haue beene in high state, and honoured of all the Cittizens; but yet hee should not haue had such a power, as now he

hath. I perswaded Pompeius to goe in∣to Spaine. If he had gone thither, the ciuill warre had not ensued. I sought not to obtaine, that Caesar being out of Rome, might stand for the Consulship: but when the people (Pompeius the Consull hims••lfe, vrging it with great importunitie) had granted it him: I said 'twas good to satisfie him therein. And discerning that this was the seede of ciuill discords, with many reasons, I laboured to extinguish it; reprehen∣ding them which affected not peace: the which, though it were accompani∣ed with vnequall conditions, yet I pre∣ferred it before warre, which on our behalfe was most i••st. Pompeius knew I spake truth: but there were some so blinde, that to enrich themselues, and effect their desires, holding victorie se∣cure in that Pompeius was their Cap∣taine, they saw not the benefit of my Councell. They came to armes: I stirred not: they went out of Italy, I staid as long as I could. In briefe, the care of my honor, wrought more in me, then the feare of life. I would not leaue Pompeius, because he had not for∣saken mee in my necessities: therefore to shunne infamie, like that Amphia∣r••us in the Fables, I expos'd my selfe, to manifest ruine. In which warre no aduersitie fell out, which I had not for∣merly denounced. Seeing therefore

you may perceiue the truth of my rea∣sons, you are bound to beleeue mee, as men vse to beleeue Augures, and Astro∣logers, when they haue once spoken truth. Neither, doe I now goe after dreames, as the Augures are wont to doe, nor doe I marke how the birds flie, nor hearken I how they sing, nor minde how they eate: but I obserue o∣ther signes: which if they be not more certaine then those, yet they are more easie to comprehend, and consequent∣ly, not so fallible. And my Progno∣stication is grounded vpon two rea∣sons. On the one side I consider Cae∣sars nature: on the other, that of the ciuill warres. Caesar is benigne and clement, iust as he is disciphered in that booke, where you complaine of him. Besides, he loues noble spirits, such as yours is: and finally, ••e will be ouer∣come, with many mens entreaties: see∣ing, that they are not mou'd out of vaine ambition, but out of office, and charitie. The which all Tuscanie doing, 'tis to be thought, shee will be heard. Now, what's the reason, that hitherto, these things haue done little good? For he thinkes, that granting your returne, with whom, it seemes, he hath some cause to be angry; he could not after∣wards deny it many others. Oh, you'le say, what may I hope for then? if he be angry with me? he conceiues, that he

may extract his praises from the same fountaine, by whose drops, hee was formerly made wet, or dashed. Finally, he is a man of great wit, and prudent discourse. He see'th plainely, that he cannot long keepe you out of your Countrie, you being in Tuscanie, which is no base part of I••alie, but amongst o∣thers, the most noble: and equall to a∣ny in Rome, of the more honourable sort of cittizens of your age, for wit, fauour, and iudgement. He will not that here∣after you should acknowledge this be∣nefit rather from the time, then now from him. I haue spoken of Caesar: Now I'le speake of the nature of the ciuill warres. There is no man such an enemy to that enterprise, which Pomp••ius, with great courage, but small preparations vndertooke, that can say, that we haue eyther beene bad cittizens, or bad men. Wherein I am wont to admire the gra∣uitie, iustice, and wisedome of Caesar: He neuer speakes but honorably of Pompeius: Oh, but he hath perform'd against him, many terribly actions. The blame is not Caesars, but of armes, and of the victory. Doe but marke vs: how hath he embraced vs? He made Cassius his Legate; He hath giuen the gouern∣ment of Fraun••e to Brutus, and to Sulpi∣cius that of Gracia: he restor'd Marcellus, against whom, he was wonderfully in∣censt, with as great honor, as could be

wisht. What can I therefore inferre? Take the world what forme it will, the nature of things, and of ciuill warres, will neuer permit, but that in one, and the selfe same cause, all may haue the same condition: and that good men, and good cittizens, that are innocent, may returne into that Cittie, where∣into so many guiltie banished men are returned. This is my prognostication: of which if I made any doubt, I would rather vse that consolation, with which you being a valiant man, as you are, I might easily suppose to comfort you: That if you had taken vp armes, for the Common-wealth, (for so you then thought) with certaine hope of victo∣rie, you should not haue beene much to be commended; but had you imagined, it might so come to passe, that we should be vanquish't, the end of warre being vncertaine: it would haue beene a thing most vnbeseeming you, not to haue beene constant in aduerse for∣tune; as you would haue beene discreet, and moderate in prosperous. I would discourse yet farther; how much it would refresh you, to call to mind, that your deeds tended to a good end; And how delight••ull your studies would be vnto you in aduersities. I could rip vp vnto you, the fearefull accidents, not onely of auncient, but also of moderne Captaines, that haue beene in this war,

with you. For other mens examples, reducing that law to memorie, where∣unto all men, are constrained to obey, extenuate our griefe. Besides this, I would aduertise you, in how great an hauak and confussion of things we liue: in that we should lesse grieue to be de∣priu'd of our countrie, when it is in ill state, then when it is well: but I would not haue you thinke of this reason. For out of hand, as I hope, nay, rather as I plainely discerne, we shall see you, in honor, and safetie. In the meane while, although I haue at many other times performed this office: neuerthelesse, be∣cause Caesar, and his friends do shew me euery day better countenance, I more confidently promise you, my paines, my endeuour, my loue, and my labour. And be assured, that what authoritie or fa∣uour soeuer I doe obtaine, I'le employ it all for your benefit: as formerly I of∣fer'd to your sonne, the true image, no l••sse of your minde then of your body, a very well demean'd young man, and exceeding constant in your aduersitie. Looke to maintaine your selfe, not onely with fortitude of minde, but also with hope, which you may haue aboun∣dantly. Farewell.

Aulus Caecina to Cicero. Ep. 7.

I Vnderstand, that my sonne hath not let my booke be seene, doubting (and not without cause) lest he might foolishly erre to our preiudice: consi∣dering that, the same which was writ∣ten, with a sincere meaning, may bee wrested to a contrary sense. And there∣fore if you haue not had it, ascribe the blame to feare, and to the qualitie of our state, worthie doubtlesse of com∣passion. This my misfortune which st••ll continues, grew by writing: and in this I know my selfe, more vnfortunate then others. For when a writing is vn∣corrected, by cancelling the error, there is remedie: and when on is a foole, fame giues him due chastisement. But my error is amended by banishment: the sum of which offence is; that being ar∣med I spake ••ll of my aduersary. Accor∣ding to my opinion, there is none of vs, which prayed not for victorie: and which desired not also, when he sacri∣ficed vpon any other cause, that Caesar might be suddenly discomforted: If himselfe thinke no•• so; he is truely hap∣pie: if he know and conceiue as much; why is he angry with me, for hauing written somewhat, that he would not haue [to be written], he hauing par∣doned

others, who sent vp their pray∣ers to the gods for his ruine. But to re∣turne to the purpose, the reason you had not the booke was this; because I haue written of you, but yet sparingly, and with respect; desire spurring me for∣ward, but feare keeping me backe: whereas, it were requisite, that he that wrote of such an argument should not onely be free from all respects, but be of wit also, and of a valiant, and reso∣lu••e minde. 'Tis thought there is a free∣dome to reprehend other mens vices: and yet it must be done with modesty. A man cannot commend himselfe too much, least he seeme arrogant. It is therefore onely lawfull to commend anoth••r man. And ••f you praise not a man, as much as he deserues, of neces∣sitie, you are to be reprehended, eyther of ignorance, or enuie. But I thinke I did you a pleasure in not commending you so much as you deserued; For when one cannot doe a thing sufficiently, 'tis good to g••ue it ouer, or at least to touch it but sl••ghtly. Neuerthelesse I haue v∣sed moderation: ••or many things I haue extenuated; many I haue cleane taken away, and many also I haue not set downe. Euen as, therefore, of a Lad∣der, if you take away some steps, cut off other some, and leaue others in ill case, you would make it that no man could ascend thereon: So he that writes any

thing with restraint, what contentment can he giue the reader? And when I but name Caesar, I feele my selfe tremble; not for feare of punishment, but of his iudgement, because I doe not entirely know his nature. How thinke you, that my minde may stand, when it reuolues with it selfe, reasoning almost after this manner? This word will please h••m: of this o••her, I am doubtfull: and if I change it, who knows, whether it may not be worse? Besides this, if I com∣mend one; what know I, whether I ••hall offend him? and if I offend him, will he not take it in anger? I wrote a∣gainst him during the warre: and then he was angry with me•• What will he do now, that I am vanquished, and bani∣shed? You also augment my feare, who, in your booke of the perfect Orator, minding to defend your selfe from de∣tractors, you make Brutus your shield, and you seeke a companion, to excuse your selfe the better. If you, doe this, who were wont to assist euery one with your high eloquence: What opi∣nion should I conceiue of my selfe, who for so many years, vs••d to haue recourse to you, for my defence; and now finde my selfe in case, to bee defended of all men? If therefore it happen, that the mind, in this imagination be perad∣uenture transported with any vaine feare; and that this blind suspition tor∣ments

it; in that a man must not write to satisfie his owne iudgement, but in such a sort, as he esteemes may please others: how difficult it is to doe anie good thing, if you haue not found it by reason, Nature hauing giuen you a sin∣gular wit, apt for euery great enter∣prise; we now find it. Neuerthelesse, I enioyn'd my sonne, that he should read the booke to you, without leauing it in your hands: except you would promise to correct it; that is, wholly to change it. Touching the going into Asia, though great necessitie vrged me, yet I haue followed your aduise. About my returne, 'tis superfluous to entreat you: you see the time is come, wherein it must be dilated of. It is needles my Cicero, for you to haue any regard to my sonne [herein,] his age, too much af∣fection, and feare, take from him those aduertisements, which in that respect, are requisite. 'Tis fit that you take vp∣on you, all this enterprise. I haue pla∣ced all my hope in you. You absolutely know, out of your wisedome, what things wil delight him, and with what, one may reconcile his fauour. It is re∣quisite that from you, all things should haue their beginning, and all b•• finished by your hand. You are of great power about him, and in great respect a∣mongst all his followers. If you'le dis∣pose your selfe to beleeue, that you

must not onely take vpon you the charge imposed, though this were in∣deed too much; but that the whole burden is yours: you may easily ob∣taine whatsoeuer is desired. And if this securitie which I intrude vpon you, make me seeme either too ••oolish in my miserie, or presumptuous in my friendship: let your vsuall loue, and kindnesse, excuse me both in the one, and other, which ordinarily is so great, that now at length your friends in th••ir occasions, doe not hope, but command you. I pray, let not the booke my sonne giues you, be seene, except you first so correct it, that it may not preiudice me. Farewell.

Cicero to Aulus Caecina. Epist. 8.

HAuing vnderstood by Largus, who is your kinde Affectionate: how on the Calends of Ianuary, your safe conduct was expired: I spake with Bal∣bus, and Oppius, knowing that euerie thing was well done, which was acted by them in Caesars absence: and I ear∣nestly entreated, both the one and the other, that they would grant mee, that you might remaine in Sicilia at your

pleasure: who being wont, either to promise mee willingly, whensoeuer I demanded any thing of them, that stood not against their mindes; or else to denie me, and tell mee the reasons, why they did so: at that instant they gaue me no absolute answer: but y••t the selfe same day, they returned to me, and granted me, that you should conti∣nue in Sicilia, as long as you would: for they would so vse the matter, that Caesar should bee content. Now you haue vnderstood what they permit you: I thinke good to make knowne to you my opinion. This being done, I receiued your letters: wherein you consult with mee, whether you should stay in Sicilia, or goe into Asia, to set in order some busine••ses of yours. I took not this your intention, to confront with Largus words. He spake to mee in such a sort, as it seemed you might no longer abide in Sicilia: and you write, as if you might continue there. But whether the one or the other bee true, my opinion is, that you should not stir from thence. You shall bee neere to Rome; and hauing opportunitie of often writing, and ••en••ing messengers, you may the better solicite your returne. The which, if it may be obtained, after the sam•• manner you desire and hope; or else vpon any conditions wha••soe∣uer; you may ••orthwith come. Ther∣fore

I would not wish you, to depart from thence, in anie wise. I will com∣mend you to my friends, Titus Furfanus, Posthumius, and his Legates, when they come, for they were al at Mutina. They are men of great bountie, and much affected to those of your qualitie, and my verie inward acquaintance. Wher∣in soeuer I see that I may do you good, I will doe my endeuour, without being required thereunto. And what I of my selfe vnderstand not: if it be told me, I'le exceed anie mans labour, or dili∣gence therin, whatsoeuer. And though I meane to speak so effectually with Fur∣fanus, that letters shall not be very need∣full: yet some friends of yours thinking good, that I should write a word vnto him, for you to deliuer: I desired herein to content them. The copie you shall see, here vnder written. Farewell.

Cicero to Titus Furfanus Vice-Consull. Epist. 9.

BEtween me and A••lus Caecina, there hath euer been so great familiaritie and friendship, that none can possibly bee greater. For his father, a valorous Gentle-man, was my especiall friend, and himselfe I alwaies loued from his

infancie, because hee gaue wonderfull hopes, of singular bountie and elo∣quence. And not only through amitie, but ••hrough a similitude of studies, we conuersed so domestically together, that no man was more familiar with me, then he. It is not requisite, that I write further: you see how many occa∣sions lead me, to assist him, in whatso∣euer my power extends vnto. And, because I haue seene it manifestly, by diuers signes, that you greeue much, to see good men in these hard fortunes, and the Common-wealth in so misera∣ble an estate. Onely I request you, that the same desire you formerly had, to helpe Cae••ina, may so encrease, as that it may equall the loue you beare ••••y selfe. You cannot doe mee a greater pleasure. Farewell.

Cicero to Trebatius. Epist. 10.

AS there is no man better knowes, then my selfe, how much you loue me: so am I a testimonie to my selfe, of the loue which I beare to you. For, I euer greatly grecu'd, for the counsell you followed (if it were coun∣sell, and not rather destinie) to perseuer

in a ciuill war: and now not seeing you so readily, restored into your fo••mer e∣state, as is conuenient: I am therewith no lesse troubled, then you with my disgraces, were heretofore tormented. Postumulenus, and Sextius, know it: our Atticus knowes it; with whom I haue many times discoursed thereof at large: and Theudas your Free-man; to whom, not long since, I imparted the inward affection of my minde: and to eue••ie one of these, I haue said many times; that wherein soeuer I could, I should bee glad to bee emploied by you, and your children; to whom I would haue you write, that they make vse of my en∣deauours, counsell, goods, or person: for all these things being in my power, ••hall neuer be wanting to them. If in autho••ity and fauour, I could preuaile so far, as I should preuaile in that Com∣monwealth, of whom I haue so well deserued: you should also be the man, you were wont to be; that is, worthy of the high••st place of honor whatsoe∣uer; and in your owne order, vndo••bt∣edly reputed aboue all others. But be∣cause in ••he ••elfe same time, and for the uery same occasion euery one of vs is fallen from high to low estate: I pro∣mise you those things, which, before I told you, beeing as yet mine: and moreouer, those, which me thinks I do yet ••eserue, as reliques of my former

dignitie. Because Caesar hims••lfe, as in many things I discerne, rather-loueth me then otherwise: and almost all his familiar friends, whom I haue heereto∣fore pleasured in matters of impor••āce, obse••ue, and honor me with all respect. Therefore if I may in any wise, pleasure you in your substance, that is, for your return, on which euerie thing depends: & euerie daie, by reason of their ••ords, I am in more hope: I w••ll labour, and vse therein all diligence, without being requested. It boots not to descend vn∣to particulars. What may bee done with singular affection, and great loue, that I promise you. But it imports mee much, that al your friends should know thus much; to the end they may bee assured, that Cicero will neuer faile Tre∣batius, in whatsoeuer hee is able; and that they may thinke, there is nothing so difficult, but that in the effecting it for you, I shall hold my selfe fortunate. Farewell.

Cicero to Trebatius. Epist. 11.

I Would many times haue written to you, if I had had matter to write; For, when friends are in such a state, as you

now are; one should not write vnto them, but to comfort them, and ••o promise ayde, and benefit. To offer you comfort, seem'd not necessarie, vnderstanding by many, how resolute∣ly, and wisely you support the iniutie of the times; and how much the since∣ritie of your owne operations, and counsels doe comfort you. And if you doe this, you reape great fruite from vertuous ••tudies; wherewith I know, you were euer delighted: and I earnest∣ly exhort you, so to do. Besides this, though you are aboundant in exam∣ples, as hauing turn'd ouer all ancient, and moderne histories: yet, I hauing more experience in the affaires of the world, then I would; as I haue lesse in studies, then I desire; vpon my credit, I promise you, that the hard state wher∣in you now stand, & the wrongs done you, will quickely haue an end. For first hee, who can doe what hee will, becomes in my iudgement euery day more reasonable, and discends further into the nature of all things: besides the cause is so iust, that it necessarilie, together with the Common-wealth, which cannot alwaies languish, will rise vp againe, and resume vigor: and euery daie wee finde, more benignitie, and fauour then wee hop't for. Which things, because they many times de∣pend, vpon a very little occasion of the

times, wee will obserue all moments, and by as many meanes as is offered, seeke to helpe, and further you. Where∣upon I hope, it will be more easie euery day, about the matter I formerly men∣tioned, to write vnto you, and promise you helpe. and I will doe it more vvil∣lingly with effects, then words. Be se∣cure, that you will finde more-friends, then any banished man hath, or euer had, so far as I discerne: and yet you'le bee beloued of none, more then of my selfe. Carrie an inuincible, and resol∣ued minde, which lies onely in your owne power. Things that remaine in the gouernment of Fortune, shall bee swayed by the times, and ruled by our directions. Farewell.

Cicero to Trebatius. Epist. 12.

BEfore this time, I onely lou'd Dolae••bella, but was no waies bound vn∣to him; because I neuer had any occa∣sion to vse him; and he stood obliged to me, because in his dangers, I neuer failed him. Now, hauing procur'd you, the restitution, euen as I desired; first of your substance, and then also of your countrie; he hath so interrested

himselfe in me, that there is no man, to whom I hold my selfe more tied then to him. Wherein I reioyce with you after such a manner, as I would not haue you thanke me, but rather to bee ioyfull with me: your thanking of me being superfluous, and your reioycing most iust. Now, that your vertue and dignitie, haue opened vnto you the waie, to returne among your friends: like that wise, and magnanimious Gen∣tleman, you are, you must forget what you haue lost, and remember what you haue reco••ered. You shall liue with your allies: you shall liue with your Friends. There is no comparison, be∣twixt the losse of goods, and the pur∣chase of honour you haue made. Nei∣ther should your goods bee de••re vnto yo••, the Common-wealth being in so miserable an esta••e. Our friend Vesto∣rius writes vnto me, that you giue mee infinite thankes. I take it exceeding well, that you diuulge my benefit, and tha•• among the rest our Syro knowes it. For those things which I doe, I would haue them pleasing to all wise men. I desire to see you out of hand. Farewell.

Cicero to Ampius Balbus. Epist. 13.

I reioyce with you, my Balbus, and vp∣on iust occasion: neither am I so foo∣lish, to feede you with vaine hope: least mocked thereby, you dare hope no more, after better fortune. I pleaded your cause with greater freedome; then my state required. For being enflamed, with honest charitie, and moued by that loue, which was euer common be∣twixt vs, though my fauours were but weake, yet I haue compassed the end of our desire. Whatsoeuer concernes your returne, and safetie, all hath beene promised, confirmed, ratified, and esta∣blished: I haue seene the effect: I haue procured it: I haue personallie interpo∣sed my selfe therein. For all Caesars ••riends conuerse much with me, and so well they like of my amitie, that next to him, they hold none more deare. Wherein I haue beene carefull accor∣ding to the qualitie of the times pre∣••ent. Pa••sa, Hirtius, Balbus, Oppius, Matius, and Posthumius, wish mee all good. And if I had made this triall for my selfe, I should haue beene well ••ontented, that I had effected so much, ••n these times. Which came to passe ••ecau••e I proceeded not with respect,

as it seemes these present times require: And retaining old friendship with them, I haue preuailed for your good. But your good friend Pansa, desirous to doe me all kindenesse; being of no lesse authoritie, then fauour about Caesar; was he that fauoured me most aboue o∣thers. Tillius Cimber also bare himselfe as well, as I could haue wish'd. But that which most imports, is, That Cae∣sar willingly giues eare to them, that petition him, not through ambition, but for some iust, and due respect. And because Cimbers suites were of this na∣ture, they haue sped better for you then they would haue done for any bodie else. We haue not yet obtained the Patent, because some men are so malicious vnto vs, as they would swel•• with despight, that you, had obtaine•• leaue to returne, whom they tearm•• the Trumpet of the ciuill warre: min∣ding thereby, to make shew, that the•• tooke no pleasure, that a warre ensue•• Wherefore I thought good, to proce•••• secretly, and to keepe the matter bu••••ed. But by that time you shall re•••• these, I make no doubt but the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 will be dispatched. And Pans••, wh•• is not a man of vaine words, hath pro∣mis'd me, giuing me his faith, that with in few daies he will giue me the Pate•• N••••er••••elesse, I thought good to wri•••• thus mu••h to you, that you might ha••••

some cause, to cheere vp your selfe: the words of A••pul••ia your wife, and the tears of Ampia your daughter, making me thinke, that you are not of so good comfort, as your letters demonstrate. And they beleeue, that themselues, not being with you, you will be much more assailed with pens••ue cogitations. And therefore, to rid you of all griefe, that might ceaze on your minde, I iudge no remedie could be better, then to giue you full notice of your deliuerie: which is most certaine. You know, that be∣fore, when I wrote vnto you, I onely comforted you, as an inuincible, and wise man, but I gaue you no certaine hope of returning into your countrie, till the heate of this warre were quen∣ched. Remember your letters, where∣in you shewed a great minde, & fi••me, and constant to endure all accidents. Which seem'd no wonder to me, when I call'd to minde, that from a youth, you did negotiate in the Common∣wealth; and it fell out that you had all your M••gistracies, in the greatest dan∣gers of the same•• and you entred into this warre, not onely with an intention to be happie, if you prou'd victor, but to bee wise, though you were van∣quish't. Besides, spending all your studies, in celebrating the worthie acts of valiant men: you must consider, that you ought to do nothing, in which

you should shew your selfe, vnlike to them. But these instructions were ra∣ther to bee vsed, if you were in those miseries, from which you are now free'd. But now, resolue onely to to∣lerate with vs these [inconueniences] which at this instant oppresse vs: to which if I found any medicine, I would also giue it vnto you. But there•• no o∣ther refuge, then learning and studies, wherein we haue alwaies exercis'd our selues: the which in prosperous For∣tunes yeelded vs onely contentment, but now, with contentment, they giue vs life also. But to returne to the be∣ginning, be assur'd, that your restituti∣on is obtained. Farewell.

Cicero to Quintus Ligarius. Epist. 14.

THough in these your molestations, it was my part, to write vnto you sometimes, to comfort you, and to giue you assistance: neuerthelesse, I did it not hitherto, supposing that I could not either with words mitigate, or in any other maner extenuate your griefe. But seeing I conceiue great hope, that within a short time, you may compasse your returne into your country: I could

not, but signifie vnto you, my opinion and desire. First there∣fore I will write, that which I discerne, and see clearely; that Caesar will not be so bitter to you, as he hath beene hi∣therto: because not onely the matter it selfe, the times, and the opinions of men; but, as I perceiue, his owne na∣ture also, doth euery day, more and more mollifie him. This hope I con∣ceiue, for all men, but for your person, I may haue it farre greater, being secu∣red thereof, by his nearest fauorites: to whom since newes first came out of A∣frica, I haue not ceased to sue, together with your brothers: who are so care∣full to procure your returne, as I con∣stantly beleeue, that Caesar seeing their valour, and singular affection towards you, will graunt what they would: and if the matter suffer some longer delay, then we could wish; it is, because we cannot haue audience from him, being exceedingly busied, in that hee must giue answere to so many demaunds. And moreouer, being prouoked against them, that haue renued the warre in A∣frica, it seemes he hath a purpose to punish them longest, from whom he hath rec••iued longest trouble. And yet against these men also he growes euery day more pacified. Whereupon I pro∣mise you, (and keepe in minde what I say) that you shall not continue in these

perplexities any long time. Thus much touching my opinion. My loue I had rather should be manifest vnto you, by effects, then by words. And were I a∣ble to doe as much as by right I should, in that common-wealth, of whom I haue so well deseru••d as you suppose: you should not remaine in so miserable an esta••e. But the same occasions haue depriued me both of power & fauour, which were vnto you the cause of you•• afflictions. Neuerthelesse, looke what the shaddow of my former dignities can compasse; what I am able to per∣••orme, with that little authoritie that remaines vnto me, with my studie, with my coun••ell, with my endeuour, with my fauour, and with my affection; I will not faile to apply it whollie to you•• benefit. Be of an inuincible spirit, as ••uer you haue beene: F••rst, for the reasons aboue mentioned: and then, because you haue alwayes both coun∣selled, and wrought so well for the Common-wealth, that now, you may not onely hope, for better fortune: but if you did meet with it quite contrarie, yet knowing that your counsels and actions haue alwaies beene laudable, you ought to support it, with valour, and constancie. Farewell.

Cicero to Quintus Ligarius. Epist. 15.

ASSVRE your selfe, that I striue with all labour, industrie, and af∣fectio••, to obtaine your returne into your countrie: For besides, that I euer bare you singular affection, the great pittie, and feruent loue, which your bre∣thren shew towards yo••; to whom I am growne as friendly as to your selfe; permits not, that I should omit any kinde of office, or diligence, or let sl••p any occasion, to helpe you. But what I haue wrough•• & compassed for you, I had rather you should vnder••tand by their letters, then mine owne. I will only write vnto you, what hopes I haue of your safetie, or rather, what I fi••me∣ly b••leeue, and am s••re of. If euer there were a man timorous, in grea•• and dan∣gerous affaires, and that alwayes rather feares contrary euents, then hopes for prosperous, I am the man: and if this be a defect, I must confesse I haue it. Neuerthelesse you shall vnde••stand, that the last o•• February, betimes in the morning, I going to speake with Caesar: and before I could be admitted in, ha∣uing suffered all indigniti••, and protra∣ction, your brethren being prostrate at Caesars feete, and with them your kins∣men,

I spake whatsoeuer I thought fit∣ting for your purpose: and not onely by Caesars answere, which truely, was fauourable, and courteous, but by his eyes, his countenance, and many other signes, which I could better discerne, then set downe in writing, I tooke such a conceit, as I esteeme your returne most certaine. Be of good cheere there∣fore, and seeing you wisely supported, the more tempestuous times; beare these also chearefully, that begin to be more temperate. Yet beleeue not, that I w••ll abate a whit of my vsuall dili∣gence: rather I'le follow your matters, as if they stood vpon the worst termes: and not onely to Caesar, but to all his friends also, whom I know very louing vnto me, I will, as hitherto I haue done, preferre earnest supplications, for your safetie. Farewell.

Cicero to Basilius. Ep. 16.

I Congratulate with you: I reioyce with my selfe: I loue you; I protect your affaires: I desire to be certified of your loue to me; and of the newes of your selfe, and of those quarters. Fare∣well.

Bithynicus to Cicero. Ep. 17.

IF there were no•• betweene vs in par∣ticular many iust, and worthie occa∣sions of friendship, I would rip the be∣ginn••ngs thereof, euen from our Fa∣the••s: which I will leaue to them to do, who haue no•• with good offices pre∣serued paternall amitie. And therefore I'le content my selfe, with our friend∣ship: which animateth me to entreat you, that you would assist me, in my absence, wherein soeuer need shall re∣quire: if you stand not in doubt, that I will forget your cour••esie. Farewell.

Cicero to Bithynicus. Ep. 18.

FOR many respects, I desire once more to see the Common-wealth in b••tter es••ate: but especially that I might be comforted, by that, which you promise me: in that you write, if this should ••ome to passe, you will be euer with me. It contents me, that you carry such a mind, and the same, our in∣ward friendship requires; and that o∣pi••ion, which vvas sometimes held of me, by tha•• most rare man your father. For I will not deny, but that they, to whom Fortune hath giuen much pow∣er,

by the greatnesse of benefits, may intimate themselues with you, more then I am able: but beleeue not, that a∣ny can loue you aboue my selfe. There∣fore I shall be glad, that you preserue the memorie of our friendship, and af∣fect also, to augment it. Farewell.

Cicero to Lepta. Ep. 19.

HAuing seene, what you wrote in one of yours, that I r••ceiued from your Seleucus, I presently sent a note to Balbus, that hee would let mee know what the Law was [••n that poynt.] He answered mee, that it forbad, that any one, which was at that present Praeco, sh••uld be made Decurio: bu•• not one that had beene so in former times. So tha••, let ••hese our friends bee of good comfort. For indeed, it were too hard a case; That whereas in R••m••, the Sena∣torian dignitie, was conferred euen vp∣on ••he Ha••uspices: one might not in a free incorpora••ion, be a D••curio, that in former times had borne office of Praeco: There is no newes out of Spaine, but take this for certaine, that Pompeius hath a great armie. For Caesar himselfe sent me a copie of a letter, of Pat••etu••, which relates, ••hat he hath ele∣uen

Legions. Besides this, M••ssalla wrote to Quintus Salassus, how Pom∣peius put to death, in the sight of the Armie, Quintus C••rtius, his brother, be∣cause he had accorded with some Spa∣niards, if Pomp••ius went to a certaine towne, whither hee resolued to goe, a∣bout the prouision of corne; to carrie h••m prisoner to Caesar•• Whereas, you write vnto me, of the securitie you put in for Pompeius: if Balbus, who promi∣sed in your companie, and is a man di∣ligent enough, in matter of his owne benefit, hee re••urned out of the Coun∣trey, I will not cease to speake to him the••eof, to bring the matter to an end: whereof hee seemed to conc••iue great hope. I am exceeding glad, that my booke of The perfect Orat••r, so pleaseth you. Certainely, I perswade my selfe, that I haue employ••d therein, all the iudgement I haue, about the Art of an Orator. And if it be such, as you write it seemes vnto you, there is some mat∣ter in mee also: if otherwise, I deny not, but so much may bee taken from the opinion of my iudgement, as is in that booke defectiue. I would haue our Lep••a begin to bee delighted, with such like compositions. For, although he hath not yet that iudgement, which yee••es will bring vpon him; yet will it not be without great benefit, if he inure His eares to such like accents. I am not

yet gone out of Rome, b••cause my daughter lay in. Now, though she be, as I hope, in good state, yet will I not depart, till I haue receiued of Dolobella, the first pension. And to confesse vnto you the truth, I delight no more to goe abroad, as I was wont; I tooke plea∣sure to visit my Farmes, and to separate my selfe from occupations: now, I haue a house in Rome, which in beautie, is in∣feriour to none of my country buil∣dings; and I am as free from employ∣ments, as if I were in the most solitarie place of this world: and I may studie as much as I will, for no man hinders me: therefore I thinke to see you soo∣ner here, then you mee there. Procure that our [young] Lepta, may get Hesio∣dus without booke, and let him haue e∣uer in his mouth.

The hill where v••r••ue hath her residence, Is of a steepe, laborious ascent, The Gods would haue it so; & 'tis but sense, That we should sweat, to get so rare content.

Cicero to Lepta. Ep. 20.

IT likes mee well, that Macula hath done this dutie; I euer approued of his wine of ••ale••••••m, for entertain∣ment, so there were house-roome e∣nough,

to lodge my companie. For o∣ther matters, the place contents mee very well, but yet I will not forbeare to come to Petrinum, because both the village, and the seat, is so pleasant, that both one, and other inuites men, not onely to lodge, but to remaine there al∣waies. Whereas you write vnto mee, that I should procure you to haue the charge, of some of those festiuities, which are to be celebrated in the coun∣tries: I haue talked therof, with Oppius: for I saw not Balbus, since your depar∣ture, being so troubled with a paine in his feet, that he comes not abroad. But you should doe much more wisely, not to seeke these employments; for you cannot by this, colour your designes: Caesars friends being multiplied in such aboundance, that hee rather leaues some, then lets any new ones take place; especially if hee bring nothing but endeauour. wherein he will think, that hee hath done you a fauour, yea, though hee should know, that you did not receiue it. Neuerthelesse, wee'l see what hope there is: for if there be none, I would aduise you rather, to estrange your thoughts from it, then to haue a desire thereof. I thinke to stay some daies in Astura, till Caesar comes thi∣ther. Farewell.

Cicero to Toranius. Ep. 21.

HAuing written vnto you, three dayes since, by the seruants of C••eius Plancius, I will now bee short: and, whereas before I comforted; now Ile aduertise you. I thinke you cannot doe better, then stay where you are, till you bee certaine what you are to doe. For besides, that you shall auoyd the danger, you might incur, by sayling in the winter, so many daies, thorow a tempestuous sea: and besides ••hat, when you shall heare certain newes, you may depart at your own pleasure: you haue no cause, to be so desirous to goe meet Caesar: and moreouer, I am affraid of many things, whereof I rea••oned with our friend Chilo: and to bring many words within a small compasse: during these euils, you could not bee in a more conuenient place, hauing opportunitie to turne your selfe, whither soeuer ne∣cessity cals you. And, if he coms hither, you shall haue time to meet him And, if any thing hinder him, or prolong his comming (as many accidents may fall ou••) you shall be in a place, where you may vnderstand all newes. Thus think I, and I aduise you not to do otherwise. For the r••st, be assured, as many times I haue written for your comfort, that in

your case, you neede to ••eare nothing, besides the common ruine of the whole Citie; which though it bee greeuous to tolerate, yet we haue liu'd in such man∣ner, and are of that age; as wee ought valian••ly to beare all aduersities, which may happen, without our fault. All your friends are here in health, & with hearty affection, they desire, loue, and reuerence you. Looke vnto the preser∣uation of your health, and stir not from thence, to no purpose.

Cicero to Toranius. Epist. 22.

ALthough 'tis thought, that the end of this pes••iferous warre is now at hand, or that some effect hath ensued; yet I cannot, but daily thinke, how you alone, in so great an armie, should be of the same opinion I am: And that wee onely, saw wha•• ill was in that warre; wherein, all hope of peace excluded, the victorie it selfe must needs be terri∣ble, which brought death, if you were vanquished; if Victor, the yoke of seruitude. Whereupon I, whom those valiant and wise men, the Domitij, and Lentuli, then said was timorous (as in∣deed

I was; for I fear'd what came to passe) doe now feare nothing, and am prepared against euerie accident. when I supposed, that some part of the los∣ses, which afterwards wee sustained, might haue beene preuented; th••n I greeued, that they prouided not for the same. But now, e••erie thing being rui∣nated, no councell auailing vs, there re∣maines no other remedie, b••t with pa∣tience to support all euents: especially death; being the last period of humane miseries. And I knowing, that I haue laboured to maintaine the dignitie of the Common-wealth, so long as I could; and able to do no more; I haue endeuoured at least, the preseruation of her safety. This I haue written, not to vse speech of my selfe, but to giue you occasion to think theron; you euer ha∣uing wished, & aduised the same, that I did. For 'tis a singular comfort, when a man cals to mind, that though the con∣trary hapned, neuerthelesse, that he al∣wayes perswaded that, which reason & conscience did read vnto him, And I would to God, that we might once see the Common-wealth, in some state; and that enioying each other, we may com∣pare our afflictions together, which we then suffered, when we were reputed timor••us, because we foretold those things which haue ensued. As for your affaires, be assured, that you haue no

cause, to feare any other thing, but the generall ruine of the Common-wealth. Of me constantly beleeue, that where∣in I may be assisting to you, your safe∣tie, and to your children; I will euer be readie, with the greatest care, and dili∣gence possible. Farewell.

Cicero to Domitius. Ep. 23.

IF I haue not written to you, since your comming into Italie; the reason onely was, because I could promise you nothing; being in so miserable an e∣state: neither could I aduise you, my selfe wanting councell: and in so grie∣uous tribulations, I found no m••nner of comfort to giue you. And though matters are not now a whit bettered, but stand in worser tearmes then be∣fore: yet I tooke occasion rather to write without matter, ••hen not to write at all. Though you were one of those, that sought to labour more for the Common-wealth, then their power would permit: neuerthelesse, in what I could, I would exhort you, to liue with

those conditions, which may be gran∣ted you. Bu••, hauing impos'd th••t end to your resolute, and commendable councell, which Fortune will haue to be the bounds of our contentions: I pr••y, and coniure you, by our entire, and auncient amitie, and by that great loue we beare one another, that for my comfort, your Fathers, your mo••he••s, your wiues, and all your progenies, ••o whom you are, and euer were most deare; to preserue your selfe; and to haue a care of that which may turne to the good of your estate, and of those that depend on you. Now is the time to reduce to action, the documents which with long studie you haue learn'd out of the writings of wise men. In doing of which, you shall support, though not willingly, at le••st with pa∣tience, the desire of those f••iends you haue lost. I know not mine ovvne worth: nay, I conceiue my worth to be but small; but neuerthelesse I pro∣mise you, that I will as effectually la∣bou•• that, vvhich I thinke may stand with your safetie, and dignitie, as you vvith singular industrie and loue, euer proseq••uted my occasions. And this my good will, I haue manifested to your most louing mother, a woman of great bountie, and goodnesse. If you commit any thing to ••e; I will doe

whatsoeuer I may imagine, stands to your liking. And also if you write not vnto me; I vvill notwithstanding with all care, and diligence doe, what-soeu••r I see may re∣dound to your benefit. Farewell.