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

THE EIGHTH BOOKE OF THE FAMILIAR EPISTLES OF M. T. CICERO. (Book 8)

Marcus Coelius to Cicero. Epist. 1.

AT my departure, I promi∣sed to write diligently to you, of all things that should fall ou•• in R••me. Whereupon I haue collected euerie flying newes so particularly, as I feare, lest this my ••oo affected diligence, hath exceeded those bounds, beyond which it growes irkesome. Although I know, how curious you, and how glad they, that be far from their Countrey are, to

vnderstand euerie little matter that oc∣curreth. Neuerthelesse, I earnestly entreat you, to hold me for a man, that sets not too much by himselfe, though the paines be not mine, but committed to others: not because, it is not plea∣sing vnto mee, to be often mindefull of you: notwithstanding all my employ∣ments, and naturall slothfulnesse, in writing to my friends, which you are priuie to. But the profunditie of the booke, which I send vn••o you, will ea∣sily, as I suppose, excuse mee. I know no man so discharged of businesse, that could completely, not onely no•• haue written all things ther••in contain'd; but not so much as haue obseru'd them. You shall there see, all the decrees of the Senate, all the Edicts, all the Come∣dies, euen to the vulgar tales th••t a••e di∣spersed. And if peraduenture such ad∣uer••isments please you not, let me know it•• that hereafter I disturbe you no more, at my charge. Important aff••ires of the Common-wealth occurring, that ••hese mercen••rie writers cannot display in that manner, as were requi∣si••e; I will write them: and giue you notice, both of that which hath happe∣ned, and of the iudgement that after∣ward passed thereof, and what is therin expected. Now, at this present, there is nothing in hand, of any moment•• There is a report spred, as farre as C••ma

only, and no further, about those con∣uentions of people beyond Poe; at my returne to Rome, I heard no bodie speak a word of it. Withall, Marcellus pro∣pounded not in the Senate, that there should a new gouernour bee sent into the Galliae. He told mee, that in the Ca∣lends of Iune, he would propound it. But certainely, hee came very much short of that feruencie, which he shew∣ed, when wee were both in Rome. I would bee glad to know, if you haue found Pompeius, as you desired: what your opinion of him is? what discour∣ses you haue had? and what minde, and resolution it seemes to you, I will not say, that hee hath, but what hee makes s••ew to haue? For, hee vseth to speake one thing, and reserue in his minde to doe another. Although he is not of so circumspect a wit, that hee can so dis∣guise his thoughts, that they may not outwardly appeare. Of Caesar, there is euerie moment some ill newes: but no∣thing ver••fied. True it is, there is great muttering. One saies, hee hath lo••t his Cauallerie: which I take to bee most true: Another affirmes, that his se∣uenth legion was discomfited, and that the Bellouaci haue closed vp the passage, that hee cannot returne to the other peopl••. And though the••e bee no cer∣taintie; neuerthelesse, not being con∣traried; the vulgar speake thereof: and

some, who you know, withdraw them∣selues to reason together: and I can tell you, that by this time, Domitius laies his hand on his mouth. On the 13. of May, a rumour was raised by the men of newes, at Penny-lesse Bench, that you were dead: which returneth vpon his head, that dispersed it: so that ouer all Rome, a report was divulged, that you were slaine on your iourney, by Quintus Pompeius. I, that know how Quintus Pompeius is at Bauli, in so great miserie, that hee maintaines his life, by carrying men for hire; was not much moued thereat, and I desired, that all perils that may accrue to you might proue like to this. Your Plancus is at Rauenna, and though Caesar gaue him a great present, yet is hee not in prospe∣rous estate, nor furnished, as it were requisite. Your bookes, wherein you frame the state of an excellent Com∣mon wealth, are read of euerie one with admiration. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius to Cicero. Epist. 2.

VVEll, he is absolued. I was there when his absolution was published, and that not onely by

one part of the three, which are to iudge; but by them all: and by all sen∣tences he is absolued. Oh! will you say; speake you in good earnest? 'tis as I tell you. None would haue beleeued it, and it seemes a thing very strange. I, who grea••ly desired, for the amitie be∣twixt vs, his absolution, rather prepa∣red my selfe to condole with him: but seeing sentence past, in his fauour, I was altogether a••tonished, & it seemed to me a miracle: Then imagine, vvhat it seemed to others. With great excla∣mations the iudges replied, shewing ••uidently, that it was not a thing to be supported. Whereupon, though he be ••ree'd by the Law Licinia, he seemes to be fallen into a greater danger. Withall, the day after the said absolution, Hor∣tensius presented himselfe in Curio's Theater, as I thinke to be seene, and because we should reioyce with him in his ioyes. But, as many as were there, began to ••rample, rore, to make a thun∣dring, to cry out, and keepe a buzzing: which was the more obserued, because Hortensius was come to old age, with∣out euer hauing beene whistled at•• But on that day, he was so soundly handled, as it might suffice any man, for all the daies of his life. Of the Common-wealth, I can write nothing to you. Marcellus irruptions are pacified; not out of neglect, but in my opinion, for

some secret respects. Of the creation of Consuls, not knowing the time, I can giue you no certaine aduertisement. Marcus Octauius, sonne to Cneius, and Caius Hirrus, are competit••rs with me, in the petition for the Aedileship: the one is really noble; the other pretends to be noble, but is not. I was desirous to write this, to put you into greater expectation of the issue, hearing that Hirrus is my concurrent. Neuerthelesse as soone as you are aduertised of my creation, I pray, remember the Pan∣••hers, and to procure Sitius to pay me. I gaue to Lucius Castrinius Paeto, the first volume of the matters of Rome; the se∣cond, to him that brings you these. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius to Cicero. Epist. 3.

VVHat will you say now? doe I not write vnto you? doe I not quite contrarie to that you said? Yes certainely, so that my letters come to your hands. And in this, my dili∣gence is the greater; because when I haue time to spare, I cannot haue a better recreation. When you were in

Rome, and I had no businesse, I vsed to come, with great contentment to your house, and to passe the houres with you, in sundrie discourses. I would I could now doe so? for in truth, since your departure, me thinkes I am not onely left alone, but that Rome remaines voyd. And wheras before many times (such was my negligence) I let slip many daies without comming to see you. Now in conclusion, I am readie to teare my selfe with my ••eeth, because I cannot be euery day with you. But Hirrus my competitor is the greatest cause, that I desire you, day and night. Oh! if you knew, how this your con∣current in the Augurship, is vexed; and faynes not to see, that my plots take better effect, then his: of which I desire you may be aduertised, for in truth, you would wish it more for your owne re∣spect, then mine. For if I remaine A••∣dile; it may so be, that I shall be created, with some rich associate: But if Hirrus get it not, we shall haue such sport, at his repulse, that for all the time of our life, we shal neuer want matter to laugh at. May this be? so 'tis certainely. Nei∣ther can Marcus Octauius in any sort pa∣cifie their hatreds, that are opposite to Hirrus, who are many. As for Milo's goods: I haue so wrought, that Philoti∣mus your wiues free-man hath restored them to his kindred; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 haue ac∣knowledged

herein his fideliti••, and loue, giuing him in reward of his ser∣uice, as much, as you set downe. Now, it remaines, that I entreat you, that if you haue spare time, as I hope you shall, to direct vnto me some worke: that by this I may know, you are mindfull of me. Questionlesse you'le say; your re∣quest is not foolish, but how came this into your minde? I would, that among so many compositions of yours, some one might come to light, which might also be a testimonie to posteritie, of our friendship. For the qualitie of the worke, I referre it to you: for you ha∣uing all knowledge, can best determine of the subiect: In generall I tell you, th••t I desire a thing, which may be fit me, and that it may be replenish't with documents; to giue men occasion, more willingly to read it. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 4.

I Enuie you, because you haue euerie day so great newes, as makes you wonder: first, that Marcus Messalla, was absolu••d, and afterwards condem∣ned: that Caius Marce••lus remaines Con∣sull: that Marius Calidiu•• after his re∣pulse,

was accused by Marcus Gallius, and Quintus Gallius, brethren: that Publius Dolabella is one of the fifteene. But I enuie you not, because you did not see, how many colours came into Lentulus Crusc••llus countenance, when he had the repulse. For certainely there was neuer a more delight some thing to behold: and peraduenture he thought it would not so haue past with him: and Dolabella himselfe had little hope there∣of. But if our Gentlemen had not had their eyes open; vndoubtedly, he had ouercome his sute: and his opposite would almost voluntarily, haue giuen ouer the enterprise. I doe not thinke you wonder, that Seruius, chosen Tri∣bune of the people, should be condem∣ned. Whose place Curio hath deman∣ded: and in their hearts, who know not his gentle disposition, he hath imprin∣ted a strange feare. But as I hope, and desire, and as he makes shew, he will not start an inch from the Senate; nor from the partie of good men: he is now wholly for this. And that he tooke vp∣on him such a resolution, Caesar was the occasion, who not vsing to respect mo∣ney for the obliging of euery man to him, how base soeuer he were; seemed to make little reckoning of him. Wher∣in I thinke, as also by others he hath beene aduertised, that a matter of plea∣sant admiration ensued, Curio who euer

before had carried himselfe inconside∣rately, hauing vsed all his wit, and cun∣ning, to frustrate their designes, which made opposition to him in his Tribun∣ship: I speake of the Laelij, Antonij, and other bragadoshi's. I deferred to write vnto you, because the creation of Ma∣gistrates hanging in suspence, I was en∣forced continually, to attend vnto ne∣gotiations: and partly I was desirous to tarry the end; that so I might aduertise you of euery thing; and supposing they would presently be dispatcht, I expec∣ted till the first of August. The creation of the Praetors, was prolonged, through certaine impediments. I know not how fauourable fortune will be to me, in the creation of the Aediles Curules. It is true, that in that of the Aediles of the people, manifest signes appeared more in fauour of me, then Hirrus. Of Mar∣cus Caelius Vicinianus I haue no feare. You know how we made a scoffe of him, when he said, that he would put on for the creation of a Dictator. The foole propounded it, and remain'd vili∣fied: and many cries were heard against him. The same people afterwards see∣med to haue an extreame desire of Hir∣rus: I say to pleasure him ouer the shoulders. I hope 'twill not be long, ere you vnderstand that from me, vvhich you expect, and that of him, which I durst scarcely hope for. As for the state

of the Common-wealth, we did not hi∣therto looke for any new matter. But the one and twentith of Iuly, the Senate being assembled in the temple of Apol∣lo, and debating of the stipend that should be giuen to Pompeius, there was speech also of those souldiers, which formerly Pompeius had lent Caesar: how many they were; and how many they should be: so that Pompeius being ouer∣come by a continuall importunity, that some ill tongued followes made to him, was vrged to say, that by all meanes he would call backe the said souldiers out of Gallia. Afterwards he was demanded his opinion, about sending a successor to Caesar: who replied that generally the matter of the Prouinces, should be put off till the said Pompeies return: who was to go to Ariminum, to the Armie: and presently he went thither. I think it will be treated of, on the xxiij. of August: and without doubt, something will ey∣ther be concluded, or some Tribune shall be nominated, that will not refuse the charge. But such an one will be blamed, because Pompeius in consulta∣tation hath said, that it were fit, that euery one should obey the Senate. Ne∣uerthelesse, I am certaine, that nothing will be done, se••ing Paullus elected Consull, shall be the first to deliuer his opinion. I am v••ry carefull to put you in minde, that you will procure me to

be paide by Sitius; desiring to let you know, that it greatly imports me. In like manner; for the Panthers I pray yo•• deale with the Cybiratae, and when they are readie, cause them to be conueyed to me. Besides this, it is vnderstood, and held for certaine, that the King of A∣lexandria is dead. I pray, aduertise me diligently, what you would councell me to doe; how that kingdome stands; and who hath taken vpon him the go∣uernment thereof. The first of August. Farewell.

Marcus Coelius, to Cicero. Epist. 5.

I Know not what your minde is, about the peace of your Prouince, and the countries adiacent. Certainely I stand in great doubt thereof: For, if we could order the matter so, that the greatnesse of the warre, might not exceed the for∣ces of your Armie; and that we might obtaine so much victory, as might serue to get the triumph; and that we might auoid that dangerous, and terrible bat∣taile: great would our happinesse be. Now, if the Parthians stir at all, I know there will be no small matters to doe; and your armie is scarce able to defend

a Passage. But none considers ••his: but 'tis rather thought, that a gouernour of a Prouince, as you are, is bound to pro∣uide whatsoeuer is nec••ssarie: supposing that he may doe i•• sufficiently. Where∣unto may be added; that I cannot see, that you are to haue a successor sent you, by reason of the controuersie ••i∣sen, about ••ending one into Gallia. And though I thinke you haue already taken some course the••ein; neuerthelesse, to giue you occasion the ra••her to intend it, I thought good to adu••rtise you, how the matter is like to hang in sus∣pence. You know the ordinarie acci¦dents: the Senate will d••termine of the Gall's: A Tribune will come, that will be opposed: then another sha••l be pro∣pounded; who, if the Senate be not permitted, to send a gouernour in∣to any Prouince whatsoeuer; will likewise hinder the expedition of o∣ther Prouinces. And ••hus trifling; this dance will last so long, that for two yeares no effect will ensue. If there were any thing new, about the Commonwealth, I would not faile ac∣cording to my custome, to write dili∣gently vnto you, both what were done, and what I expected would succeed. It seemes that the opposition of these Prouinces, slacken the course of other busin••sses. M••rc••llus makes all instance for it, as he hath euer done, but for all

the diligence he vseth: he cannot draw a full counsell to set thereon. And, if after this yeare Curio enter into the Tribuneship, and there be also treating of the Prouinces. I know you well perceiue, how easie it will bee then to crosse euery thing, and what strife will by Caesar, and those that fauour his cause, and not that of the Common∣wealth; be introduced. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 6.

I Know certainely you haue vnder∣stood, how Appius was accused by Dolabella; but not with that popular disgrace, which I expected. For Appius did not like a foole; but presently when Dolabella came before the Tribu∣nall, he went into Rome, and gaue ouer demanding Triumph: by which he si∣lenced what was spoken of him, and shewed himselfe more expert, then his accuser look't for. Now he hath great hope in you. I know you are rather a friend to him then otherwise: this is an occasion to binde him to you, as long as you list: and, if some enmitie had not fallen ou•• betwixt you, you might now at your pleasure helpe him; but,

if you be so rigorous to handle him as he deserues: I can tell you, many will thinke, that you haue not conc••aled your wrath, with that pur••tie of minde, which is expected from a sincere, and faithfull man. And on the contrarie; If you ••auour him, none can say, that you had respect to the inward Amitie, that you haue held with D••labella. I will not forbeare to certifie you, that Dola∣bella's wife departed from him, at the same time, when Appius was accused by him. I remember that, which you said to me, when you departed: and I suppose you carrie in minde that which I wrote vnto you. It is now no time to write, more at large: only I would admonish you, that if the course dislike you not, yet shew no signe of your in∣clination, while you see, what successe he hath in this cause: to the end that the matter being knowne, you incurre not some blame: and assuredly, if you manifest your selfe, it will neither bee with your praise, nor profit; and hee cannot conceale it, for the conuenien∣cie of the thing, conformable to his hope; and because in the present enter∣prise, it will augment his reputation, especially he being a man, that though he knew it would draw some extreame hurt vpon him if he spake thereof, yet could he hardly k••epe it secret. It is said that Pompeius is very fauourable to

Appius, so that men thinke, he will send one of his sonnes to speake to you. Here, we absolue euery bodie. And certainely heere haue beene some of the ••icke••est, and most dishonest things past, that can be imagined. Yet we haue Consulls that are so vigilant, that hitherto they could passe no de∣cree, but one, vpon the sacrifice, which ordinarilie is made on Mount Albanu••. Our Curio is cold in his Tribuneship as Ice, and I cannot possiblie giue you to vnderstand, how euery one here, stands with their hands at their girdle. If I had not found something to doe, with hosts, and watermen, a great lethargie would haue ceazed vpon al Rome. And, if the Parthians set not you one heate in those parts, we shall still be colder, and colder. Neuerthelesse, whatsoeuer our sleepe be now, I would be loath the Parthians should awake vs. It is said that Bibulus encountred with the enemie, on Mount Ama••us; and that he hath lost, I know not how many com∣panies of souldiers. I told you Curio was as cold as Ice; now, I tell you, he begins to be heated, and so toyles him∣selfe, that he is enflamed. For when he saw he could not obtaine time to pay his debts, hee plaide a prettie pranke: he is gone from the Senates side, to the people, and hath vndertaken to speake in sauour of Caesar. Besides hee hath

diuulged, how he determines, to en∣act a law vpon the waies, not vnlike to that of Rullus, about the deuision of ground; and another vpon meates: conformable to which the Aediles must beare themselues: which yet he had not done, when I wrote the first part of this present epistle. Be pleased to interesse me in Appius fauour, by this occasion of assisting him; and as for Dolabella, I aduise you to let the matter hang doubtfull, both in respect of the same Appius; as also for your honour; and not to bring you into ill opinion with men. It is, and will be your dis∣grace, if I haue not Panthers out of Graecia. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius to Cicero Epist. 7.

I Know not how soone you desire, to depart from thence; I desire it, the rather, because hitherto the warre of the Parthians, hath ••allen out well with you, for which, while you remaine there, I shall be perplexed, fearing least some sinister accident may disturbe my ioy. I write briefely, because the messenger, who carries the Taxe-ma∣sters letters, hastens his departure.

Yesterday by your Freeman, I wrote at large. There is no newes: except I should write these, which vndoubtedly you desire. Cornificius, the young man, hath concluded a mariage with the daughter of Orestilla. Paulla Valeria, sister ••o Triarius, without any occasion brake off the marriage, on the day that her husband, should haue arriue•• o••t of the Prouince. She is to be mar••••ed to Decimus Brutus, but yet they h••ue not publis••'t the matrimonie. Many incredible matters of this nature, ••••ue hapned. Seruius Ocella, could neuer make men beleeue, that hee was an a∣dulterer, but that in lesse th••n three daies, he was taken twice in ••he act. Shall I tell you where? where certaine∣ly I would not. I'le giue you leaue to aske of some o••her. Neither doe I dis∣like, that an Imperator, be inquisi••••ue, who hath beene discouered, and wi••h what woman. Farewell.

Marcus Coelius to Cicero. Epist. 8.

THough I haue to write vnto you, a∣bout the state of the Common-wealth: yet I am perswaded, there's nothing will like you better then this.

Vnderstand, that Caius Sempronius Ru∣fu••, and Rufus in effect, who was won•• to bee your Honie, and Darling; was conuinced with great scorne, for a false accuser, Will you know in what mat∣ter? After the Roman sports, he accused Marcus Tu••ius, his accuser, as a man ••hat had committed violence. And this he did out of malice; seeing, that he was constrained to defend himselfe, before the Iudges of this yeere, except some extraordinarie accident were enterposed. And hee knew verie well, what would ensue thereon. This pre∣sentation hee would not put vp against others, but onely against his accuser. And, although he had none, that would subscribe to the accusation, yet hee came before the Tribunall, and accu∣sed him. Which being heard, I pre∣sently ran, to present my selfe, in de∣fence of the accused•• not a••tending to be o••he••wise inuited thereunto. I came before them: I spake no••hing of ••he cause: I bent all my speech against S••m∣••ro••ius, wresting ••uen that fiction to my pu••pose, which hee, for the inuries he had done ••o ••estorius, had alledged: that, for you ••••k•• hee would bee con∣te••t, to be r••st••red. An••ther cause is in hearing, o•• no small moment. Mar∣cus Seruilius being absolutely brok••n; all his goods sold; and fallen into eue∣rie mans dises••eeme; repaired to mee

for defence. And I alledging against Pausania his Creditor, that hee might bee satisfied by them, who had bought his goods; Laterensis the Praetor, accep∣ted not of my defence: and Pilius, kinsman to your Atticus, hauing accu∣sed him, as a man that had imbezel'd monies in the Prouince, presently a great arguing grew, and a voice was spred, that hee should bee condemned. Afterwards comes Appius the younger, driuen, as it were, with a most violent winde of feare, lest Seruilius should bee left so bare, that hee could not pay him 24. thousand Crownes, which hee pre∣tends to be due vnto him by this right; that his father being accused by Serui∣lius, & comming to an agreement with him, gaue him the said summe; to the end, he should not proceed against him in worser matters. You wonder hee should bee so foolish. But you wou••d maruell mo••••, if you knew some oth••r, his notable sopperies; and how his fa∣ther confessed so infamous a crime to be true. He accepted of the same Iud∣ges, which gaue sentence against his Father. And the decrees being as many of the one part, as of ••he other, Lat••∣rensis, not knowing the Law, denoun∣ced that which each Bench had iudged, and at last, according to the custome, said, I will record the absolution. Ser∣uilius was gone; and euery man••

thought he had beene absolued: when the Praetor, taking the wri••ten Law in his hand, and hauing read the hundred and first head thereof, wherein were these formall words, Let the Praetor giue s••ntence, according to the opinion of the great••r part of the Iudges, hee record••d not the ab••olution; but wrote, that of three orders, the Senatorian, Equestri∣an, and Plebeian; two h••d absolued, and not condemned him. Af••er this, Appius againe impor••uning; hee con∣tracted with Lucius Lollius, and ••ayd, that hee would register the absolution. And thus Seruilius, neither absolued, nor condemned, but halfe defam••d, must answer to Pilius imputations. Ap∣pius also himselfe would haue accused him of such a misdemeanor: but ha∣uing sworne him false accuser of his fa∣ther, he durst not contend with Pilius, which of them two should plead against him. He was also accused by the Seruilij, as one that raked vp money in the Pro∣uince, by vnlawfull meanes: And be∣sides this, by a certaine friend of his, who was wont to be his instrument, in accusing of others, him••••lfe was accu∣sed of violence committed. They both hang well together. As for the state of the Common-wealth; the bu∣sinesse of the Ga••••iae, hath cros••ed other businesses for m••ny daies. But at last, after it had beene diuers times debated

of, and suspended, Pompeyes pleasure being knowne, that the next March to come, Caesar should giue ouer his go••uernment, the Senate passed a decree, which I send vnto you. Which was subscribed vnto, by the Senators, here∣vnder nominated. The last of Septem∣tember, in ••he Temple of Apollo, there were present, Lucius Domitius Aenobar∣bus, son to Cu••ius; Quinius Cicilius Me∣••ellus Pius Scipio, son to Quintus; Lu••ius Villius Annalis, son to Lucius, of the Tribe Potina; Caius Septi••••ius, son to Ti••us, of the Tribe Quirina; Caius Lu••∣ceius Hirrus, son to Caius, of the Tribe Pupinia; Caius Scribonius Curio, son to Caius, of the Tribe Popilia; L••cius At∣teus Capito, son to Lucius, of the Tribe Aniensis; Marcus Oppius, son to Mar∣cus, of the Tribe Terentina. Marcus Marcellus, Consull hauing propounded the nomination of the Consular Pro∣uinces, the Senate enacted thereupon this present decree: That Lucius Paul∣lus, and Caius Marcellus, Consuls for the future yeere; on the Calends of March, which will bee the first day of their Ma∣gistracie, should propound vnto the Senate, the affaires of the Consular Prouinces, and onely propound it, o∣mitting all other businesses: And that in this, they should not haue respect to the ordinary impediment of those daies, when the people are called to parlia∣ment:

to the end that the decree may passe howsoeuer: and when they doe this, they shall haue ample authoritie, to l••t none of those Senators enter into counsell, which are in the number of the three hundred Iudges: and in case it be needfull, to speake thereof, to the people, or Plebeians, that Seruiu•• Sul∣p••••ius, and Marcus Marc••llus, Consuls for the present yeere, or the Praetors, or Trib••nes of the people, whether of them, they thinke good, shall take care to discharge this office: and if the fore∣mentioned will not doe it, the Magi∣strates of the yeere ••ollowing, shall not faile to performe it. A note of the Se∣nators, which confirmed the decree. The last of September, in the Temple of Apollo, there were present, Lucius Domi∣tius Aenobarbus, son to Cneius; Quintus Cicili•••• Metellus Piu•• Scipio, son to Quin∣tus; Lucius Villius Annalis, son to Lu∣cius, of the Tribe Pon••ina; Caius Sep••i∣mius, son to Titus, of the Tribe Quirina; Caius Scribonius Curio, son to Caius, of the Tribe Pupinia; Lucius Atteius Capi∣to, son to Lucius, of the Tribe Aniensis; and Marcus Oppi••••, son to Marcus, of the Tribe Tere••tina. Marcus Marcell••••, Consull, hauing propounded the mo∣tion of the Prouinces; the Senate cen∣sured, that none of those, that haue power to hinder, or oppose, should put in any delay, that the Consuls might

not presently propound to the Senate, and the Senate forthwith deliberate of things appertaining to the Common-wealth. Whosoeuer shall oppose; the Senate iudgeth such an one, to haue at∣tempted against the Common-wealth. And if any resist the present decree; the Senate ordaines, that his opinion bee set downe in writing, and bee discussed of in the Senate, and in the present•• of the people. To this decree, Caius Coeli∣us, Lucius Vicinius, Publius Cornelius, and Caius Vibius P••nsa, opposed them∣selues. Besides, it hath pleased the Se∣nate, concerning the Souldiers that were in Caius Caesars armie; that, of such of th••m, as had finished the terme of their seruice, or had any iust occasion to giue ouer their entertainment, the Se∣nate might be informed, that their rea∣sons may bee considered. If any man resist this decree, the Senates pleasure is, that his minde be put in writing, and that the matter bee propounded to the Senate and people. This decree Caius Coelius, and Caius Pans••, Tribunes of the people, withstood. And besides this; the Senates pleasure is, that the next yeere, the Praetors of the yeere present bee sent, into the Prouince of Cilicia, and into the other eight Pro∣uinces, which are gouerned by those that haue beene Praetors; and that they that are sent, shall be sent by lot; and if

these bee not so many as may suffice, that Praetors bee chosen out by lot, of the next precedent yeeres, which haue not beene in gouernment; and that they be sent by lot, to the gouernment of the sayd Prouinces. And if there be not so many of these, as may bee suffi∣cient; that one after another, the Prae∣tors of the immediate next yeeres cast lots, that haue not beene deputed to gouernment; and let this bee so long done, while the number of them is made vp, which are to bee sent, to the gouernment of the Prouinces. If any oppose this d••cree, let his minde bee specified in writing to the Senate. This decree, Caius Coe••ius, and Caius Pansa, Tribunes of the people, oppo∣sed. Moreouer, it was obserued by those words of Cneius Pompeius, and great hopes therby was conceiued, that hee could not without iniustice, deter∣mine of Caesars prouinces, be••ore the Calends of March: but that after the Calends, hee would thinke there∣upon: And being demanded, what if any man should then oppose? he answe∣red; that it should be as much as if Cae∣sar should suborne one, not to suffer the Senate to delib••rate; as if openly hee should deny to obey it. And what if he, (said another) would be Consull, and keepe the Armie too? he replied, free from choller. What if my sonne, would

giue me the bastanado? By these words it was collected, that Pompeie, and Cae∣sar were not of accord. Whereupon, Caesar, as I perceiue, will now discend to one of these two conditions; ei∣ther to remaine in the gouernement of the Gaules, and so being absent he cannot demaund the Consulship: or else obtaining it, he will depart. Curio sets himselfe wholly against him. I know not what he can doe. But I see, that he aymes at a good end, and there∣fore cannot be ruinated. He shewes me great courtesie. But the present hee made me, will redound to my losse. For if he had not giuen me those Panthers, which were brought out of Africa, for his sports; peraduenture I had neuer entred into this dance. But seeing I am entred, and that I must celebrate my sports: I put you in mind of that, which so often I haue written; that you'le pro∣cure me some Beast, from those parts. And I commend vnto you the credite I haue with Sitius. I haue sent Philo thi∣ther my free-man, and Diogenes Graecus: who will speake to you in my name, and deliuer you my letters. I recom∣mend them both vnto you, and the cause for which I sent them: the which, how much it imports me, you shall see in the letters, that they shal present you. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 9.

DOe you thinke that Hirrus re∣main'd scorned? but you doe not well know all. For if you knew how ea∣sily, and with how little paines I put him downe, you would blush; calling to mind, how he was sometimes so im∣pudent as to concurre with you. And after this repulse, he laughes with euery man: to counterfeit a good Cittizen, he speakes against Caesar: he blames the Senate, for being so slacke to delibe∣rate: he followes Curio with ill words: what needes more? this repulse hath made him change nature. Besides this; though he neuer appeared in the Forum, and hath little practise in pleading: yet is there not a more courteous aduocate then he. He entertaines and followes euery cause, but seldome after noone. I wrote vnto you, that on the xiij. of August, the matter of the Prouinces would be determined: but because Marcellus chosen Consull for the yeare following, was of another opinion, it is put ouer to the first of September. The Consulls were so farre from doing any thing els, that they could not bring many Senators to Counsell. I sent not these, before to day, which is the second

of September: and hitherto no course at all is taken. For any thing I see•• this cause will be deferred ti••l the next yeare: and so farre as I conceiue, you must leaue one in the gouernment of the Prouince. For otherwise exchange cannot be made; se••ing it cannot be resolued, that a new gouernour should be sent into the Galli••; which must needs stand in the same condition, that other Prouinces doe. Of this I make no doubt: and I meant to write to you thereof, that you might know how to dispose of your selfe. Almost in euery letter I write vnto you of the Panthers. It will be l••ttle credite to you, that Pa∣tiscus should send ten to Curio, and that you should not send me many more. Curio gaue me those ten, with other ten besides, which he had out of Afri••a: to the end, you m••y not suppose, that he can onely giue possessions. You may h••ue as many as you will, so you will be mindfull, in sending to call for those Cybiratae; and writing into Pam••hilia, where they say a number are taken: and I importune you more now, then vsu∣ally, for I determine to solemnize my spo••ts separate from my Colleague. For my sake, straine your nature a little: vse diligence herein. You were wont to be pleased, as well as my selfe; to haue but fe•• businesses; now, you shall h••ue no ••urther trouble, then to speake, that is

to command, and giue in charge. For when they are taken, you may leaue the ca••e of keeping and conducting them, to those men, whom I haue sent, to re∣couer my debt of Si••ius. And peraduen∣ture if you put me in hope of hauing them, I will send others for the same purpose. Marcus Fe••idius, a Romane knight comes in those parts for his oc∣casions. He is an honest young man, vali••nt, and sonne to a friend of mine. I recommend him to you, and entreate you to repute him in the number of your friends. He hath certaine land in your Prouince, which payes part of the increase. He would by your fauour be free'd from this imposition. Which thing is both easie, and honest for you to grant him: and you shall bestow a benefit, vpon men gratefull, mindfull, and replenished with bountie. I would not haue you thinke, that Fauonius hath not had their fauour, who sell their voyces at a price, but he found none of the better sort of Cittizens fauourable to him. Your Pompeius sayes openly, that he will neuer permit, that Caesar shall hold his Prouince, with an Armie and be Consull: neuerthelesse, he gaue councell, that the Senate should not for the present, enter into any other deli∣beration; and ••hat Scipio, should be ex∣pected to deliuer his opinion thereof, the first of March: and that then the

matter should be propounded in the Senate, and that nothing else should be done, before this be ended. Which opinion daunted Balbus Cornelius, and I know hee complain'd thereof to Scipio. Calidius in defending himselfe, was most eloquent, in accusing ano∣ther, rather cold then otherwise. Fare∣well.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 10.

WE were much grieued a•• the newes, which by the letters of Caius Cassius, and King Deiotarus, we vnderstood. Cassius writes, that the Parthian souldiers haue passed Euphra∣tes: Deiotarus, that they came into our Prouince, by the countrey of the Co∣magens: There was none more vexed then my selfe, and that for your cause: knowing that you are ill prouided in your Armie, and fearing least this com∣motion, might cause some preiudice to your honour, for I should feare your life, if you had a greater Armie. But be∣cause it is but little I imagine, you will not ioyne battaile, of which necessitie, I know not what construction will be made. I c••nnot certainely, rid my mind

of this care, till I vnderstand that you are come into Italie. But this newes of the Parthians passage, hath raised vp di∣uers opinions. Some giue counsell, to send Pompeius thither: others, that he should be retain'd at Rome: othersome, that Caesar should be sent with his Ar∣mie: and others, that the Consuls should repaire thither. But no man is of opinion, that this enterprise is to be committed to priuate Cittizens. And the Consuls fearing least, the Senate should send them, or conferre this charge vpon some other to their dis∣grace, vse all meanes to preuent a sessi∣on of the Senate. So as they appeare not to be very careful, in the necessities of the Common-wealth. But this negli∣gence, or cowardise, or feare, whether we may call it, is couered with rea∣sonable pretexts, making shew that they refuse the Prouince, out of modestie. Your letters are not yet arriued, and, if those of Deiotarus, had not come so suddenly, men were about to beleeue, that Cassius had fayned the Parthian warre, and caused the Arabians to o∣uer-runne his Prouince, to the end it might seeme endamaged not by him, but by the enemie. Whereupon, by my aduise, you shall write with diligence, and warily, how matters there passe: to the end it may not appeare, that ei∣ther you haue followed any mans hu∣mor,

or concealed any particular of importance. Now the yeare is at an end; for the xviij. of Nouember, I wrote these presents, I see not how any thing can be concluded before Ianuary. You know how cold, and slow Marcel∣lus is: and in like manner, how sl••ck•• Seruius is. What may you iudge of these men? and how can you beleeue, they will doe that which they haue no mind vnto, when they performe that vvhich they affect, so coldly? for they seeme to haue no will thereunto. At the change of Magistrates, if the Par••hian warre proceed, this mannage will spend the first moneths: but if there be no warre there, or onely the same; that you, or your successors, with the least succours sent, may prosequute it: I see Curio, will vse all meanes; first to crosse Caesa•••• and then to assist Pompeius, in what soeuer thing he can; little, or great. Paullus by loftie words, shewes what a desire he hath to goe into the Prouin••e. To whose ambition, our Furnius will op∣pose himselfe: touching others I know not what to thinke. I h••ue written to you, what I know. I cannot see, what else will happen. I see that time produceth many things, and that many daily are a framing: but they'le be all comprehended withi•• these bounds. I will not for••et to certi••ie you, how Cu∣rio sues for a diuision of the Campa•• ter∣ritorie:

It is said, Caesar cares little for it: but that Pompeius desires much, it should be diuided: to the end that C••∣sar at his comming may not enioy it. As for your departing out of the Pro∣uince, I cannot promise you to ob∣taine, that a successor may be sent you; but I assure you, your time shall not bee prolonged. If in regard of the present warre, the Senate enioyne you to re∣maine there; and if you may not refuse it with your honor: you may take what course you thinke good: 'Tis sufficient for me, that I remember, with vvhat vehemencie at your departure, you en∣treated me, that I would not permit, the time of your office, to be prolon∣ged. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 11.

YOur supplications procured no long, but great trouble; there was a strange obstacle interposed it selfe: For Curio your louing friend, s••eing himselfe too vniustly cros•• by the Con∣suls, that hee could not treate of any thing with the people, gaue to vnder∣stand, that he would in no wise sup∣port, that a decree should passe in the

matter of supplications; not to loose that, which through P••ullus furie, hee had purchased: to the end it might ne∣uer be said, that hee had betrayed the people. Whereupon wee accorded with the Consuls, that this yeare they should propound no other supplica••i∣ons to the Senate but yours; In truth, you must thanke both the Consulls, but especially Paullus: For Marcellus answe∣red Curio, that he had no hope in these supplications: Paullus said that for this yeare, he would not procure them for any other. It was told vs that Hirrus would oppose vs•• I sounded him: he was not onely, not contrarie vnto vs, but comming to the matter of the ene∣mies: when he might easilie haue hin∣dered the cause, if he had but deman∣ded the number of the sl••ine; hee re∣mained sil••nt: onely he said; hee was cont••nt to be referred to what Cato had said: who had commended you, but yet not counselled, that your supplica∣tions should be granted. The like did Fa••••nius. So that hauing respect to the nature, and fashion of euery one; you should thank the three forementioned, and Curio: them, because though they spake not in your fauour, yet they shew∣ed a good minde, and being able to offend you, entred into no opposition: Curio, because he interrupted the course of his owne actions for your sake. Fur∣nius,

and Lentulus, as reason required, no otherwise, then as interessed in their owne honour, ioyned heads with vs. I may also praise my selfe, for the indea∣uor and friendly solicitation of Balbus Cornelius, who spake effectually to Curio, af••irming that if he did otherwise, he should wrong Caesar, and giue him oc∣casion to esteeme him for a counterfeit friend. Domitius, and Scipio, who grudged: that you should haue this ho∣nour, were notwithstanding assistant. Doe you know the cause? because they thought the matter would neuer haue past: to whom Curi••, perceiuing that in vrging him to oppose, they solicited the effect, answered like an honest man; that he was not willing to contrarie it, because hee sawsome, who procured the supplications, would not haue them take effect. A•• for the state of the Common-wealth, they are yet indis∣cussing the businesse about the Prouin∣ces, neither do th••y treate of any thing else. It seemes that Pompei••s, and the Senate are agreed together, that Caesar shall leaue the Galliae, before the xiij of Nouember. Curio is resolued to expose himselfe to any disaster, rather then suffer this: and hath giuen ouer all his other enterprises. But our friends, whose humor you well know, dare not come, to the triall. The somme of all is this. Pompeius, to shew that hee la∣bours

not against Caesar, but constitutes that which he thinkes to be but reason, saith, that Curio seekes to raise discords. But he will permit by no meanes, and feareth much, that Caesar will be elected Consull, before he haue left the Army, and the Prouince. Curio treates him ve∣ry crossely: and speakes hardly of his second Consulship. I conclude, that if the Senate extend the vttermost of their authoritie to suppres••e Curio, Caes••r will be de••ended: but if they feare, his resistance, as they make shew, Caesar shall r••maine in his prouince as long as he will. What each mans opinion in the Senate was, you shall finde it ••n the booke, of such matters as passed in Rome. Wherin you may only read that, that you shall thinke worthie to be vn∣derstood, and passe ouer many oth••r toyes, inserted therein to no purpose, especially of sports, obsequies, and o∣ther such like things. For I had rathe•• erre, in ••xposing to your vnderstand∣ing, that which ••ou desire not to know, then in omitting any thing, which was requisite to be vnderstood. I am glad, you were mindefull of my debt, with Sitius, but seeing you perceiue them ••la••ke enough in obseruing their pro∣mise, I pray you to be carefull of it, as mine Attourney. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius to Cicero. Epist. 12.

I Am ashamed to confesse vnto you the truth, and to complaine of App••us, as ingratefull toward•• me•••• as a man may be. For a••ter the receiuing of ma∣ny benefits from me, not being able to frame his auaritious nature, to requi••e me: he begins to beare me hatred, and hath stirred vp warre against me se∣cretly. And yet not so secretly, but that, besides the being of it made knowne vnto me by many, I my selfe perceiued, that hee bare a very bad minde towards m••. But after I found out, how he had wrought the Coll••dge of Augures, & spoken openly to som••, that he would order the matter with Domitius, who, so farre as I perceiue, is my great enemie, that Pompeius should accuse me; I could not, knowing him to be indebted to me for his life, frame my minde to entreate him, that hee would not doe me such an iniurie. But what did I? I spake presently with some Friends, who were witnesses of my de∣serts towards him: And when I saw my selfe of so little esteeme with him, that he would not vouchsafe to come vnto me and excuse himselfe. I rather made choyce to be beholding to Lucius

Piso his Colleague, who as well ••or o∣ther respects, as for your sake, wish't me ill; then to come before that Ape. Which, when he knew, being puf•• vp with choler, said, that I sought, to break with him: as if I took occasion, ••o•• not being payed, to persecute him. After∣wards he forbare not to cal vnto him in publike, Serui••s the accuser, and to plot with Domitius: and betwixt them three, finding no iust cause to accuse me: they deuis••d a way; but did not perceiue, that they could not hurt me: and like insolent men tooke order, to call me to iudgement, the last day of my Circensi∣an sports, by the law Scantinca•• Seruius had scarcely made an end of speaking, when also by the same law, I call••d Appius the C••n••or in iudgement. I ne∣uer saw a matter betterfall out: For the people, and ••uery inferior man seemed to take so great satisfaction therin; that the aspersion of this made Appius more to grieue, then the accusation. After this I demanded a Chappell, which hee had in his house•• The long delaie of this seruant, hath much wronged me. For after I deliuered him this, he stayed for the letters of more then ••ortie. I know not what to write; but you know that Domitius feares the day of hearing I ••xpect you with great desire, and wish to see you presently. I pray you so grieue at my iniuries, as you imagine I

was wont both to be sorrie for yours, and to reuenge them. Farewell.

Marcus Coelius to Cicero. Epist. 13.

I Am glad you haue married y••ur daughter to Dolabilla; who, in the conceit I haue of him, is certainely a man of great goodnesse. For, what be∣lo••gs to his other defects, by which hitherto, hee hath got himselfe but little profit, they are now worne out, with his yeeres. And if any yet re∣maine, I assure my selfe, your conuer∣sation, your authority, and your daugh∣ters mod••sty, will correct them. For, hee is not obdurate in vices, neither wants hee wit, to discerne what is best Further, a great occasion of this ioy, is the loue I ••eare him Doe you see, Ci∣cero, how C••••io hath compassed his in∣tents? For, his resistance being scann'd in the Senate, as it was determined; and Marcus Marcellus perswading, that the Tribunes should bee moued in it; the Senate would not consent thereunto. Pompeius hath now such a weake sto∣macke, that almost nothing can bee ••ound to please him. The Senate had decree'd, that hee who would not dis∣misse

his armie, & the prouinces, could not stand for the Consulship: which, how it will please Pompeius, when hee perceiues, what will become of the Common-wealth, if he either cannot, or care not; I leaue for you old, rich men to consider. Quintus Hortensius, when I wrote these, dyed. Farewell.

Marcus Coelius to Cicero. Epist. 14.

IF you had taken the King of the Par∣thians, and vanquished the Citie of Se∣leucia, it were nothing, in respect of the being present at these things. Your eyes would neuer haue pained you more, if you had but seene Domitius countenance, when hee had the repulse for the Augureship. The contestation was great, each party hauing many fa∣uours. Few respected merit; euery one assisted his kinsman, or friend. So that Domitius is my great enemy: insomuch, as hee hates not that acquaintance of his, whom you wot of, as he doth me: and the rather, because he thinkes he had wrong done him; and that I was the principall occasion of the iniurie. Now, he is starke mad, that men so re∣ioyce at his crosse, and that I was so fa∣uourable

to Antonius. Afterwards, he accu••ed Cneius Saturninus, the younger; one, questionlesse, for his life past, in∣famous. And now the issue of this tri∣all is expected. And he conceiues good hopes, because Sixtus Peducius was ab∣solued. Concerning the sta••e of the Common-wealth, I haue written ma∣ny times to you, that I can yet discerne no peace. And the more this contro∣uersie encreaseth, further then is con∣uenient, so much more imminent the danger appeares. Pompeius is resolued, not to suffer Caius Caesar to bee made Consull by any meanes, before hee leaues the armie, and the Prouinces: vpon which the cheefe of the Citie will contest, that Caesar, except he first giue ouer his armie, and the one, and other G••llia, shall not bee created Consull. On the contrarie, Caesar is of a constant opinion, that he leauing the armie, his ruine will ensue. Yet he offers this con∣dition, that both of them should leaue off their armie. And so, that loue, and discommendable vnion, turnes not in∣to secret hatred; but to a manifest war. I know not what side to take, and I thinke for the same cause also, you will be much perplexed. For one part I loue, and am beloued: in the other, I hate the opinions, not the men: and I think you know, that euerie one followes the more honest part, while they proceede

without armes: But when they come to a war, the strongest; supposing that to be most honest, which is most se∣cure in this discord: I see, that Cneius Pompeius will haue the Senate and Iud∣ges of his party; and to Caesar, all those will apply themselues, that liue in feare, or with cold hopes. The armies will not be equall: but there will bee time enough, to consider the forces of ei∣ther part, and to choose the best. I had almost forgot to write one thing to you, which was not to bee omitted. Know you, that Appius the Censor does miracles? Know you, that hee abates the pompe of statues, and pictures? that hee allots the measure of land? that hee constraines debtors to pay? hee thinkes the Censorship, is either paste of beane-floure, or niter: but in my opinion, he is deceiued: for, minding to purge himselfe of filthinesse, he opens all his veines, and all his bowels. Run, I beseech you, for Gods and mens sake, and come quickly to laugh at these nouelties; that Drusus is constituted Iudge of the accused, by the Scantinean Law: and Appius is about statues and pictures, I'le promise yee, you haue cause to come in haste. 'Tis thought Curio hath done very wisely, in permit∣ting a stipend to be giuen to Pompeius. To conclude, will you know, what I iudge must fall out? If one of them go

not against the Parthians, I see cruell discords will arise, which must bee en∣ded with the sword. Either of them hath a great minde, and great forces. If infinite danger had not therin con∣curred, Fortune had prepared for you, a great, and pleasant spectacle. Fare∣well.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 15.

When did you euer see a more foolish man then Cneius Pom∣peius; who vsing to promise so many things, hath raised so many disorders? But when did you either read, or heare, of one more prompt, and couragious in an enterprize, then our Caesar, and more temperate after victorie? But what will you say to this other thing? If you did but see our souldiers now, who haue done nothing all the winter, but march in the raine, and winde, thorow difficult and cold places; you would thinke they had eaten of the most de∣licate apples, that could be gotten. Oh! will you say, you begin to glory in good time. But, if you knew in what tur∣moyles I am, you would scoffe at this

my glorie, which nothing concernes me. I cannot write my gr••efe vnto you: but I hope shortly, to open it, by word of mouth. For, Caesar determines to call me to Rome, when hee hath driuen Pompeiu•• out of Ita••y: which I ••hinke is already performed: Exc••pt he had ra∣ther be••eaguer him in Brundusium I would I were dead; if the infinite de¦sire I haue to see you, and communicate vnto you, all my secrets; bee not the greatest occasion of my comming thi∣ther so suddenly. I haue a thousand things to tel you. I am afraid, lest, as ma∣ny times it fals out, I shall haue forgot∣ten them all, when I see you. But what offence haue I committed, that I must now goe towards the Alpes? And to goe thither about the Intimelij, who, for a matter of nothing are vp in armes? Bellienus, seruant somtime to Demetrius, borne of a mayd seruant; who was there with some strength, tooke one Domitius, a Gentle-man of that towne, and a friend to Caesar: and hauing recei∣ued money of the contrarie party, cau∣sed him to be strangled. The City rose vp in armes; whereupon I must now goe thither thorow the snow, with two thousand Foot. Certainely, will you say, the Domi••ij haue ill fortune euerie where? And I would that Caesar, who is descended from Venus, had beene so resolute against your Domitius, as Bellie∣nus,

who was borne of an hand-mayd, was against this other. Salute your son in my name. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 16.

I Felt my life leaue mee, in reading your letters: by which I vnderstood, that none but melancholly thoughts possest your minde. And though you haue not cleerely layd open your mea∣ning; neuerthelesse, you haue made manifest, what your disposition was. I presently wrote these letters vnto you. I pray you, my Cicero; I coniure you; by the care you haue of your own state, by the loue that you beare to your chil∣dren, that no resolution come into your minde, by which your own safety, or that you possesse, may incurre any danger. For, I call Gods to witnesse, I call men, and our entire amitie; that I neuer foretold, or put you in minde of any thing, which proceeded not from deliberate counsell: but since I spake with Caesar, and by him vnde••stood, what his determination was, after vi∣ctorie obtained: I gaue you therof ad∣uertisement. If you suppose, that what

Caesar was in the prosecution of his courses, the same he will bee in pardo∣ning his aduersaries; your conceit de∣ceiues you. Euery thought of his, is cruell and rigorous, and also euery word. Hee departed angry with the Senate. These oppositions of the Tri∣bunes of the people, vext him verie much. I assure you, hee will open his eare to no humiliations. Wherefore, if any affection towards your selfe, or to the onely son you haue; if of your fa∣mily, or any other thing within your hopes moue you; if you haue any re∣spect to vs, or your son in law, so honest a man; you should not disturbe their fortunes, by imposing a necessitie vpon vs, of hating or abandoning that part, on whose victorie our saftie depends; or, by being an occasion, that against your preseruation, we beare wicked re∣solutions. Finally, you must consider, that what displeasure soeuer you could shew to Pompeius, you haue absolutely done it him, in this your delay. Now, if you thinke to stir against the Con∣querour; whom, while euents were doubtfull, you neuer went about to of∣fend; and to accompanie them that are now put to flight, whom you would not follow in time, when they made resistance: 'tis the greatest folly of the world. Take heed, whilest you count it shame, with little care to prosecute

the office of a good Citizen, lest you be carelesse of your owne good. But if I cannot absolutely perswade you to what I would; at least attend, till aduer∣tisements come, of the successe in Spain: the which I can tel you, at Caesars arriual will be ours. Wheron their hopes will depend, when Spain is lost, I cānot per∣ceiue. And being so; what reasō should perswade you, to ioyne with desperate people, I cannot with my selfe imagine. This your intention, which, without telling it, you intimated to mee, was now come to Caesars eare: and as soon, as hee had saluted mee; what hee had heard of you, he presently told me. I said, I knew nothing. Yet I entreated him, that he would be pleased to write vnto you a letter, which might per∣swade you not to leaue Italie. He takes me along with him into Spaine. For if this were not, before I went to Rome, I would come poasting to you where∣soeuer; and being present with you, I would feruently haue discharged such an office; and with all my power r••tai∣ned you. Be verie warie, my good Cic••∣ro, that you be not an occasion of vtter ruine, to your selfe, and all yours•• and that you put not your selfe wittingly into that danger, out of which you see there is no hope for you any way to e∣scape. And if the cries of Cit••izens reputed honest, doe moue you; or that

you cannot ••toope to support the pride and insolencie of some particulars: me thinkes you should do well to make choyce of some towne farre from the tumult of armes, while these things are dispatch'd, of which the finall effect is expected. If you thus dispose of your selfe, I shall iudge that you haue done wisely, and you shall not herein offend Caesar. Farewell.

Marcus Caelius, to Cicero. Epist. 17.

ACcursed bee the Fortune, which was the cause, that I was rather in Spaine then at Formiae, when you went to Pompeius. But I would to God, that either Appius Claudius had not beene of your part, or Caius Curio of ours; whose friendship hath drawne me to that side, which maintaines the more vniust cause. For I know, that hatred, and loue haue bereaued me of my best sen∣ses. And you also, when I came to you by night to Ariminum, performed the office of an excellent Cittizen, but not of a Friend; giuing me commission to treate of peace with Caesar, without ad∣uising me at all in that, which concer∣ned me. Neither thinke I speake this,

as fearing that our part shall not van∣quish: but certainely 'tis better to die, then see these men. And were it not for feare of your crueltie; we had long time since, beene expelled from hence•• where there is no man, nor any socie∣ty, besides a few vsurers, which is not a Pompeian. I haue procured, that the Plebeians especially, and people, are yours, which first were ours. For what occasion, you'le say? but li••ten to the remainder. I'le make you ouercome though you would not. You sleepe: and in my opinion yee obser••e not, where we lie open, and are most weak. And this I will not doe in hope of re∣ward, but because wrath, and choler are of great for••e in me. What doe you there? attend you battaile, which you cannot tell how to maintaine? I know not what manner of men yours are: but our soldiers are inur'd to fight manfully, and to sup∣port all cold, & famine. Farewell.