THE NINTH BOOKE OF THE FAMILIAR EPISTLES OF M. T. CICERO.
Cicero to Marcus Terentius Varro. Epist. 1.
AT•icus read a letter of yours vnto me; by which I vn∣derstood what you doe, and where you are; but I could not learne when we should see you. Yet I hope that yo•r comming in neere at hand; which Gods grant, that it may disburden me in part of the afflictions I suffer: although, we are o∣uerwhelmed with so heauie a ruine, that hee would s•ew him•elfe but a Page 420 foole, that should any wayes hope to be eased. But howsoeuer we may per∣aduenture in some sort helpe one ano∣ther. For after I came to Rome, I recon∣ciled my selfe to my old friends, that is, to my bookes; whose conuersation I had left: not because I was angry wi•h them, but in that I was a•hamed: it ap∣pearing vnto me, that I had not obeyed their instructions, in that I exposed my selfe to danger for the loue of such, as were not faithfull friends. But they par∣don me, and call me to my vsuall stu∣dies, saying, that you haue beene wiser by whom they were neuer forsaken. Wher•fore, seeing I am in fauour with them, I nourish good hopes, that I shall easily, when I see you, passe •uer the burden, bo•h of present, and future e∣uils. Therefore, if you please, let vs retire either to Tusculanum, or to your C•ma•um; or else, (which by no means I would) to Rome: so we may be toge∣ther, I'le assuredly b•ing matters to that passe, that bo•h of vs, shall reape benefit. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Ep. 2.
OVR Caninius comming to me ve∣ry late; and telling me, that the day following in the morning, hee was Page 421 to come to you: I told him, that in the morning I would giue him a letter; and desired him to returne for it. I wrote in the night, and yet he returned not. I thought he had forgotten it. Yet I would not haue f•iled to send you it by one of mine, if by the foresaid partie, I had not vnderstood, that the day fol∣lowing in the morning, you were to depart from Tusculanum. A few daies after, Caninius comes early, beyond my expectation; and tels me that euen then he was to come to you; I would not haue that Epistle to be frustrate, which I wrote in the night: and so; though it were old; (especially so much newes hauing since occurred;) yet I gaue it him. And to him, who is a learned man, and your good friend, I deliuered as much by word of mouth, as he by this time ha•h communicated vnto you. In my opinion, wee must both shunne the eyes of the mul•i•ude, though their tongues we cannot. For the Victors, exalted in pride through victorie, looke vpon vs as vanquish•d: and they who grieue, that our faction hath lost, fret, that we are still aliue. Why then, you will peraduenture say, take not you a course to liue out of Rome, as I doe? Because, you go before me, and euery man else in prudence. I thinke all secret things are manifest to you: you neuer erred. Who is so Page 422 quicke-sighted, that walking through such darkenesse, may not stumble som∣times? and yet I bethought my selfe long since; that it had beene good, to goe into some part; not to see, nor heare, what is heere done, and spoken• But after I had considered with my selfe; I imagined, that whosoeuer met me, would surmise at his pleasure; or else, if he suspected nothing, he might say; This man either feares; and be∣cause he is afraid flyeth: or he hath some proiect in his head; and a ship readie prouided. In conclusion, hee that suspected least ill, and knew me peraduenture more inwardly; would thinke that I bare hatred to certaine persons, and that I left Rome, for no o∣ther cause, but by reason I could not suffer mine eyes to behold them. These cogitations haue detained me in Rome hitherto: besides, that leng•h of time, hath by little and little caused as it were an insensibilitie of minde to grow in me, so that it feeles no longer. You haue vnderstood the reasons that kept me in Rome. Concerning your courses, I am of opinion, 'twere good for you to staie where you are, till this exulta∣tion be somewhat abated: till it bee knowne what end the warre hath had: for I make no doubt but ended it is: and it auailes much to vnderstand, after victorious successe; what disposition Page 423 the Conquerour manifested. Though I may imagine it: yet I expect to vnder∣stand it. If you will follow my coun∣sell, you shall no• goe to Baiae, before you see all these reports setled that flie abroad. For it will bee greater honour to vs; then d•parting from hence, it be thought we are retired into those pla∣ces, rather to mourne, then to bath our selues. But herein, I referre my selfe to your wisedome: I thinke good that we tie our selues to this resolution, to liue together in our studies, and so much the rather, because whereas before, we stu∣died onely for contentment of minde, now we are reduced to such a point, as without the sustentation of letters, our life would faile vs. If any would make vse of our counsell, and endeauour, to recouer the consumed bodie of the Common-wealth; then indeed, leauing studies, wee must runne to the perfor∣mance of so worthie an office; And fortune denying vs this wished occasi∣on, to practise in the Senate, and Fo∣rum; wee will •race the foot-steps of those so learned, ancients, partly com∣posing as they did, about the true form, of liuing well, and gouerning iustly: partly also in reading their workes. By which studie, if we cannot otherwise, we shall benefit the Common-wealth. This is my opinion. I should be glad, that you would write vnto mee, Page 424 what resolution and opinion you are of. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 3.
I Had nothing to write: yet Cani∣nius com•ing to you, I would not haue him depart without my let∣ters• But what should I write vnto you? that which I thinke you desire; that I will shortly come to visite you. Al∣though 'tis a matter to be considered of, how conuenient it is; that now when the Cittie is so ouerladen with miseries, we should goe to the Bathes; which are places of solace. We shall mi∣nister matter to them to talke of, who know not; that by changing of place, we neither change life, nor •ustomes. And yet we cannot auoyd, the talking thereof. But what remedie? in retiring our selues to a reposed life, now when all men are employed in wicked and bad actions, should we regard the be∣ing censured? I resolue constantly to contemne the ignorant vulgar, and to follow your footsteps. For though our m•series be very great; •et it seemes the studie of ver•ue, is now more bene∣ficiall vnto vs, then it was at oth•r times: or be it that in this storme, wee see no other Port; or else that the grie∣uousnesse Page 425 of the infirmity makes vs the better to know the necessitie, or want of Physicke; whose efficacie we did not discerne, while we were healthfull. But what do I? The writing of these things to you; in whose house they properly growe, is a carrying (as they say) of Owles to Athens. But I wrot them for no other end, but to giue you an occa∣sion to write vnto me something backe againe; and to acquaint you with my comming. Therefore answere, and ex∣pect me. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 4.
KNow, that of things possible, I hold the same opinion with Dio∣dorus: and therefore if you are to come: I say it is necessary that you come: and if you are not to come; on the contra∣ry; I say, that it is impossible you should come. Now to this purpose, examine whither be the better opinion, this of Diodorus: or that of Chrisippus, which pleased not our Diodorus very well. But wee'le discourse together of this argu∣ment, at a more conuenient time. Which according to Chrisippus, is possible to happen; but it is not for all that, neces∣sarie. As for Costius, it contented mee well, and I had giuen commission also Page 426 therein to Atticus. If you come not to vs, we wil come to you flying. Let there be a garden in your Librarie, [and] it is no matter for the rest. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 5.
YEs indeed will it be a very fit time on the seuenth of the moneth, both in respect of the Common-wealth, and for the season of the yeare. Therefore I am pleased, that you made choice of this day, to which I also referre my selfe. They who followed not our course, we see they now repent them: and though they should doe otherwise, yet should not we repent vs. For wee went to the warre, not out of hope to ouercome, but through a desire, to dis∣charge our duties to our Countrie: and when we left it, we abandoned not our duties, but a desperate enterprise. And so we had a greater care of our honour, then they that neuer stir'd from home: and more wisedome then those, who being vanquisht, and defeated, would not returne home. But aboue all things, it grieues me to see our selues so bitterly checkt by them, that neuer went out of Rome: and howsoeuer the matter be: I more esteeme those, that were slaine in Page 427 the warre, then these men, who repine, that we suruiue. If I haue any time to come to Tusculanum, before the prefix∣ed day, I will see you there: if not, I will finde you out in Cumanum: and I will send you word thereof before, that the Bathe may be readie, at my com∣ming. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 6.
OVr Caninius told me in your be∣halfe, that if there were any thing, vvhich I thought imported you to vn∣derstand, that I should not faile to ad∣uertise you thereof. You shall therefore vnderstand, that Caesar is expected: though I perswade my se•fe you know it. But notwithstanding he hauing writ∣ten that he would come, as I remem∣ber, into the Alsian territory: his friends wrote backe againe to him, that he should not come: For many would di∣sturbe him, and he many: and that it were better for him to arriue at Ponti∣num. I knew not, wherefore it imported him more, to arriue at Pontinum, then about Alsia: but Hirtius told me, he had vvritten of it to him: and that Balbu•, and Oppiu• had done the like: all which three, I knew to be well affected to Page 428 you. I meant to aduertise you of his comming, to the end, you might know in what place, or rather in which of these two places, you should prouide you of a lodging: for it is not certainly knovvne, where he will arriue. And I did it also, to informe you, that I am familiar with these men; and that they make me partaker of their counsels. Which, I cannot perceiue, why it should not like me. Although I support what is necessarie to be supported: yet it fol∣lowes not, that I should commend that, which is not praise worthie. Though I know not, what I may not commend; besides the first occasions. For, what afterwards ensued, f•ll out through our errour. I savv, (for then you were not there) that our friends af∣fected warre, and that Caesar desired it not so much, as he feared it not. The warre therefore grew through our de∣fect: what after hapned, could not fall out otherwise: it being of necessitie, that one part must vanquish. I knovv your griefe, was equall with mine, per∣ceiuing tha• a slaughter of innumerable Cittizens must ensue, with the death of the one, or other Generall: and besides this; knowing, that there could not be a worser inconuenience, then victorie of ciuill warres: the which I expected not from our enemies onely, but also from our friends: Who terribly threat∣n•d Page 429 •uch, as had not followed their 〈◊〉; and ha•ed both of vs: you, be∣cau•e you desired peace, and me, in that I openly approued it. And if they had subdued, their victorie would haue bin cruell and immoderate. For th•y beare an incensed minde towardes vs; as if we had taken a course, that would not be as beneficiall to them, as to our selues, if they would haue followed it: or as if it had beene better to haue gone into Africa, hoping to ouercome, by meanes of the Elephants; then either to die, or liue with any better Fortune. Oh, we liue, in a turmoyled Common-wealth. I cannot denie it; but let them take care, that haue not prouided for any kind of life. And to come to this point, I haue extended my selfe, further then I would. For hauing euer reputed you, for a man of great worth; I now value you much more: For in this so generall a storme, almost you onely haue had the vnderstanding to retyre you into a Port; where rea•ing won∣derfull fruits of your knowledge, you intellectuallie discourse of things of such a qualitie, as are much more esti∣mable, then any profit, or pleasur• of these Conquerours. What sweete daies doe you enioy now in Tusculanum? This may truely bee termed a life. I vvould I might liue so; free from grea∣ter disturbances. For I could vvillingly Page 430 resigne ouer vnto others, all the riches of the world. But I doe what I can to imitate you, and with singular content∣ment, I liue in the repose of studies. And why should not euery man graunt vs, now the Common-wealth, neither can, nor will employ vs, that we may retire to letters? The which, I know, by many learned men, (vvith what reason I cannot tell) were preferred before the Common-wealth. If therefore in the iudgement of famous men, we may ra∣ther applie our mindes to these studies, then to the gouernment of publicke af∣faires: how much more now, when the common-wealth her selfe is content therevvith, may vve follow them hour∣ly? But I doe more then Caniniu• impo∣sed vpon me: he vvisht me to aduertise you of matters you knevv not, and these that I now write vnto you, you know better then my selfe. Hereafter therefore, I'le be ruled by Caniniu• di∣rection: I'le informe you onely of that which belongs to the quality of the pre∣sent times, and that which I shall vnder∣stand to import you. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 7.
I Was at supper with S•ius, when your letters were brought vs. I am of your Page 431 opinion, that 'tis now time to depart from hence. And in that hithe•to I haue calumniated you; I'le tell you with what craft I did it. My minde was, that you should h•ue entertained the time, in some place neere hand, if happily we could obtaine the fauour of C•sar, when we went both together to meete him. Now, that euery thing is dispatch't, without any doubt or delay, we must be gone. For as soone as I heard of the death of Lucius Caesar the sonne; I •ayd vnto my selfe; what will he doe to me? whereupon I sup often with these men, which haue a kinde of dominion ouer vs. What should I doe? We must ob∣serue the times. But let vs leaue •esting: for 'tis now time to be in earnest. A∣•rica is vp in armes, and trembles feare∣fully. There is no disaster, which I feare not. But whereas you demaund of me, at what time he wil come, in what part, or into what place: Hitherto we know nothing. They say 'tis true, that he will disimba•ke at Baiae. Some thinke, that he may come by Sardinia. For the farme which he there hath, he neuer yet saw, neither hath he a worser, but yet he ac∣counts of it. I rather beleeue, that he'le come by Sicilia: but we shall presently know it. For it cannot be, but Dolabella will arriue. I think•, he shall be our Ma∣ster. How many schollers are more suf∣ficient then their Masters? Howsoeuer Page 432 if I may vnderstand, what course you will t•k•, my resolut•on shall be confor∣m•ble to yours• and therefore I will attend your letters. Farewell.
Cicero to Varro. Epist. 8.
ALthough it be not the manner; no not of the common people, ex∣cept they be vrged, to be importunate in dem•nding a present; whereof there was formerly an intention and promise made: neue•thelesse the expectation that I haue of your promise, mooues me not to sollicite, but to challenge you of performance. And I could not choose; but send you foure bookes: which shall admonish you to pay the debt, without any great respect. This new Academie, hauing, as I suppose you know, rather a presumptuous forme, then otherwise. And therefore I doubt, that these foure bookes, which I send vnto you, com∣ming out of the center of the same A∣cademie, will challenge your promise, with too much importunitie: which I haue enioyned them, that they s•ould but onely put you in minde, that I liued in expectation, that you would haue honoured me with the dedication of some worke of yours: and for this cause Page 433 I forbare to write vnto you: to the end that hauing first seene your present, I might haue deuised the like to recom∣pence you. But obseruing your slacke∣nes•e, (though I will rather terme it di∣ligence, then slacknesse) I could not forbeare to write the said bookes vnto you, to manifest vnto the world, in the best manner I could, the firme knot, both of our studies, and mutuall loue, by which we are con•oyned. And so I haue digested in forme of a Dialogue, that discourse we had together in Cu∣m•num, Pomponius At•i••s being pre∣sent. And because I conc•iued, that Antiochus opinion pleased you; I haue brought you in to def•nd it: and I main∣taine that of Philo. You will in reading, wonder at some things vttered by vs, which neu•r were spoken. But you know the custome in Di•logu•s. Here∣after we will betweene vs endite many things, and vpon the subiect of our selues. Which we should haue done be∣fore now: but for the time past, the Common-wealth excuseth vs; for the time to come, the blame should be laid vpon vs. And would to God, that in a retired life, and in a state of our co•n∣trie, though not •rosperous, •et secure; we might exercise our studies together. Al•hough occasions would not be then wanting, to meditate, and practise som∣thing else. But now, without studies, Page 434 what a life would ours be? In sooth, I know not certainly, whither with them I may likewise liue: but without, I shall neuer be able. But we will discusse this together hereafter, and verie often. Whereas you write vnto me, about the house you haue bought, and how you are gone to dwell there: I wish you all happinesse therein, and I thinke you haue done very wisely. Haue a care of your health. Farewell.
Dolabella to Cicero. Ep. 9.
IF you be well, I am glad of it: I am in health; and our Tullia is exceeding well. Terentia felt her selfe very ill: but I know certainely shee is recouered. All your other matters, stand in very good state• you know, that before now, I per∣swaded you to follow Caesars part, or else to retire you into some secure, and quiet place: neither am I perswaded, that you imagine, that I aduised you, more for the interest of our faction, then for your owne good. And there∣fore now, that we are euen vpon the point of victorie; I should thinke I com∣mitted a greater fault, if I did not ex∣hort you a new. And I beseech you my C•c•ro, to take in good part what I write, Page 435 and if you like not to follow my coun∣sell; at least beleeue, that I haue stirred in your actions, and done the offices which now I performe; for no other end, but for the great loue I beare you. You see now, that Cneius Pompeius is no∣thing the better for the glory of his name, nor for his so great prowesse, or being so much followed by Kings and Nations, wherein being loftie and proud he continually vaunted. He is driuen out of Itali•: he hath lost Spaine• And his armie of old souldi•rs, it taken from him: finallie, he is now besieged; and that which neuer fell out to any one, how base soeuer he was; hapneth to him; that he cannot flie with∣out dis•onor. Neither doe I thinke that any of our Captaines, were euer in such di•grace. Where•ore being wise, as you are, consider well, what hopes now remaine, either to him or you, And in so doing you may dispose of your selfe, to take that course, for your businesses which shall be most profita∣ble. One fauour I demand of you, that if he escape this beleaguering, and flie away by Sea, that you looke well to your own estate, and resolue at length, to be better to your selfe, then to any other what•oeuer. You haue di•char∣ged your dutie; you haue satisfied the inward amitie you had with Pompeius; you haue satisfied also each part; and Page 436 that Cōmon-wealth, which you iudge to be good. Now it remaines, that you must be contented with that we haue: seeing you cannot be in that, which so much pleased you. Therefore I desire, my sweete Cicero, if peraduenture Pom∣peius be driuen out of the place, where he is; and be constrained to retire him∣selfe anew, into other countries; that you withdraw your selfe, either to A∣thens, or else into some other quiet Cit∣tie. And when you doe so, be pleased to aduertise me: for, if it may be, I•le come spe•dily to find you. And besids, that I am certaine, your selfe shall ob∣taine of Caesar, whatsoeuer you will, a∣bout your honor; because he is verie courteous; I am also furth•r of opini∣on, that he will be much moued at my entreaties. I know your fidelitie, and loue; the one, makes me beleeue, that the carrier of this present, may returne hither againe securely; and the other, that he will bring me your letters. Fare∣well.
Cicero to Dolabella. Ep. 10.
I Thought it an error not to write vn¦to you, our friend Sal•ius hauing oc∣casiō •o come where you are: although, to say truth, I know not what to write: Page 437 more then that I loue you tenderly: which though I should not write; yet I am certaine, you would hold it infalli∣ble. I should rather looke for letters from you, then you from me: nothing passing in Rome, which you care to vn∣derstand: except peraduenture you would know this: that our Nicias, and V•dius, haue made choice of me for their Iudge. One produceth (as he seemes to informe me) a loane made to Nicias, written in two verses: the other like a second Aristarcus, saith it is false. I as an auncient Iudge, must determine whither it be false or true. I suppose th•t you reasoning now within your selfe, may say vnto me. Haue you then •or∣gotten those mushromes, which you eate in Nicias hou•e? and those g•eat banquets of Sophia, daughter to Septi∣mia? But wh•t's your meaning by this? doe you th•nke I haue forgotten my selfe so farre, that whereas before, I was verie seuere; now, that I haue the au∣thoritie of a Iudge, should I make no account of Iustice? I'le carrie the mat∣ter so, that our Nicias shall not be wron∣ged: neither will I in any case condemn him, to the end that you may haue no occasion to restore him; least he goe to Plancus Burs•, to instruct him in letters. Bu• what doe I? I range too farre, not well conceiuing whither you haue a re∣posed minde, or, as it falls out often in Page 438 the warres, whither you finde your selfe plunged in some care, or businesse of importance. When I vnderstand, that you are in case to laugh: I'le write to you more at large. Yet will I not omit to tell you this, that the people were wonderfully toucht with the death of Pub•ius Silla, before they knew the cer∣taintie. Now they neuer striue to vn∣derstand how he died, they thinke it e∣nough to know that he is dead. I for some reason, beare it patiently; I am affraid of one thing: that by this mans death, Caesars publike out-crie will bee hindred. Farewell.
Cicero to Dolabella. Ep. 11.
I Had rather you should vnderstand by my letters, of mine owne death; then that of my daughter; which assuredly I should the better support, if I had you about me. For your words would haue comforted me exceedingly, and the vn∣speakeable loue you beare me. But, be∣cause I hope within a small time, to see you againe; you shall finde me at such a passe, that I may receiue also from you• no small assistance; not that I am so afflicted, that I haue forgotten my selfe to be a man; or that I conceiue Page 439 not, that Fortune should be resisted: Neuerthelesse, as I was wont to be the most cheerefull and milde man of the world: vpon which you tooke such li∣king to my conuersation: So now am I turned quite contrary; yet you shall vnderstand, that I haue not a whit di∣minished that freedome, and constan∣cie of spirit, I was wont to haue, if it be ••ue, that euer I had it. Whereas you write, that you defend me stoutly a∣gainst my detractors; I make not so much account of that, as I desire it may appeare, as questionlesse it doth, that I am beloued of you. And I pray you with the most effectuall entreaties that can be vsed, be pleased to perseuere, in that so louing an offic•; and to p•rdon me, though I write briefely to you: the which I do, first in this respect, because I imagine we shall shortly be together: Besides, because this blow, hath so a∣stonisht me, that I find not my selfe yet in case for writing• Farewell.
Cicero to Dolabella. Ep. 12.
I Congratulate with the Baths of Baiae, seeing as you write, on a sudden they are growne healthfull, against their old custome. Except peraduenture they are enamored of you, and desire to ap∣plie Page 440 themselues to your occasion, gi∣uing ouer, while you are there, their or∣dinarie disposition. Which, if it be true; I maruaile not, though euen heauen, & earth leaue their vsuall properties, for your commoditie. I send you the briefe Oration, which I made in defence of King Deiotarus: which I knew not to be about me. The subiect is very mean, and almost vncapable of ornaments; nor verie worthie to be set downe in writing. But because Deiotarus is my guest, and a friend of many yeares stan∣ding; I thought good to send him, this poore present, as a garment of a grosse graine; like those presents, he was wont to send to me. I aduise you to shew, wi•edome, and valour: to the end, that by your modestie, and grauitie, the in∣iuries of your enemies, may light vpon their owne heads with dishonour, and infamie. Farewell.
Cicero to Dolabella. Ep. 13.
CAius Suberinus C•llenus, is a fami∣liar of mine, and an inward friend to Lepta, our most domesticall. This man to auoid the warre, going into Spaine, with Marcus Varro, with a reso∣lution to remaine in that Prouince, Page 441 where none of vs (since Afranita was defeated) supposed that any rumors of warre would haue risen: did light pre∣cisely into those verie mischiefes, which he laboured to shunne. For on the sud∣da•ne, he was surprized with a war•e, which being first kindled by Scapula, was afterwards in such sort, reinforced by Pompeius, that in no wise, Suberinus could dis-intrica•e himselfe from that miserie. Mar•us Planiu• Haeres, is as it were in the same perplexi•i•s, who is likewise Calenu•, a familiar friend of our L•pta. I commend therefore vnto you, both these, with the greatest loue, and efficacie possible. I desire to doe them fauour: and not onely amitie, but euen humanitie mooues me thereunto. Be∣sides, Lepta being so much grieued thereat, that he could not be more in case of his owne substance: I am vrged to feele therein, if not as much afflicti∣on, at the least little lesse. Whereupon, though I had many times, by proo•e vnderstood, how entire the loue you beare me is; neuerth•lesse be as•ured, that I shall more securely iudge there∣of, in this present occasion. I pray you there•ore, so wo•ke, that both these Caleni; miserable, not by fault, but through Fortune, to whom euery one is subiect, may receiue no damage; to the end, that by your meanes I may do this fauour to them; & also, to the com∣pany Page 442 of Calenus, with whom I haue great friendship, and to Lepta, which more imports then all the rest. What I am to speake, I thinke is not much to the purpose: neuerthelesse 'tis not hurt∣full to deliuer it. I say therefor•, that one of these hath very little substance, and the other hardly so much, as may maintaine him in the ranke of a Caua∣l•ere. Wherefore seeing Caesar, out of his clemencie, hath giuen him his life, besides which they haue not much to lo•e; see if you can procure fauour; if you loue me so much, as quest•onlesse you doe; that they may returne home: wherein they gaine nothing else, but a tedious iourney; which will not bee wearisome to them, so they may liue and die with their friends. Which thing I request you most earnestly to procure with all end•uour, or rather to effect it; for I am of opinion, that you are able to doe it. Farewell.
Cicero to Dolabella Consull. Epist. 9.
THough I could content my selfe, my Dolabella, with your glory, and take therein wonderfull satisfaction, and contentment: yet I must need•s Page 443 conf•sse, that I feele my selfe replenished with infinite ioy, seeing, that by the common opinion of men, I am made partak•r of your praises. With whom∣soeuer I come to speake thereof, (And euery day I speake with very many, for there is a great number of vertuous men, whi•h for the meanes of health, repaire to these places: and besides this, diuers others my ne•re friends, which come vnto vs from pr•u•ledged places, all which) aft•r they haue exal∣•ed you to heauen with exceeding pray∣ses, they presently giue me the great•st, and most effectuall thankes that can be. For they say, they make no doubt, but that you, following my documents, and instructions, may discharge those offi∣ces. Which to an exc•llent Cittizen, and hono•able Con•ull are conforma∣ble. And though I may answer them in all truth; that the matters you com∣passe; your owne iudgement, and like∣ing moues you to effect them; and that you neede not anothers aduise: neuer∣•he•esse, neither doe I whollie yeeld to their words, because I would not exte∣nuate your praise; in that it may seeme, wholly to proceed from my Councels: nor doe I altogether oppose them: be∣cause I am more hungrie after glorie then is conuenient. And yet, that de∣•oga•es not from your dignitie, which Agamemn•n king of kings, reputed •or Page 444 so great honor; to hauesome N•stor for a Coun•ellor: and to mee it brings great renowne; that you being a young man, and Consull, should in∣crease in vertuous operations, as nou∣rished and brought vp, vnder my disci∣pline. Luciu• Caesar certainely, whom I went, to meet at Naples, al•hough ter∣rible bod•lie torments a•flicted him; neuerthelesse, before hee saluted me, said, I reioyce with you, my Cicero, in that you are of such power with Dola∣bell•, that, if I had as much with the son of my sister; we might, secure from all danger, now, lead a life reposed. But with your Dolabella I reioyce, and g•ue him thankes• to whom in truth, since your time of being Consull, wee may only ascribe the title of true Consull, Hee afterwards vs•d many words, a∣bout your actions, and prowesse: con∣cluding, that there was neuer more ho∣nourable and illustrious enterprise p•r∣form•d; nor from which greater bene∣fit accrewed to the Common-wealth. And euerie one gen•rallie concurreth with him in this opinion. Now, I •e∣quest you; that you will permit me, to assume this, as it were a false inheri∣tance of anothers glorie: and suffer me in some part, to enter into a participa∣tion, of your praises. Although my Dolabella (for what I said hi•herto, I spake out of merriment) I would more Page 445 willingly poure vpon you, all my com∣mendations, if any praise be due vnto me, then diminish any of yours. For I hauing alwaies so loued you, as easilie you may conceiue: [&] now especially, these your atchieuements haue enfla∣med me with so ardent an affection, that no man was euer, more set on fire with loue, then my selfe. For there is nothing, (beleeue me) that is more louelie, beautifull, or amiable then vertue. I euer loued, as you know, Marcus Brutus, for the excellencie of his wi•; for the sweetnesse of his customes; and for that bountie, and constancie, wherein none is comparable to him: and neuerthelesse, on the xiii of March, my loue toward• him, was so augmen∣•ed; that I wondred, how a thing could growe greater, the which long time since I thought had attained to it •ull growth. And who would euer haue thought, that the loue I beare you, could in any so•t, haue beene enlarged? and yet it is so encreased, that paral∣le•ling the loue I now beare you; with that wh•ch hitherto I professed •o∣wards you, me thinkes that seemes vu•gar, and this singular. To what end the•efore should I exhort you, to haue •he obiect of your thoughts to be euer reputation, and glorie? Shall I set be∣fore your eyes, the example of m•n fa∣mous for their vertue; which they vsu∣ally Page 446 doe, that exhort men to praise? I cannot finde a more famous man then your selfe. You must trace your owne footesteps, and seeke to goe beyond your selfe. And me thinkes, hauing a•readie wrou•ht such wonderfull things; you can doe no lesse, then re∣semble your own actions. And being so, exhortations, are not necessary: it is ra∣ther needfull, that I should reioyce wi•h you: a matter hauing fallen out to you, which I cannot say, euer happened to any other; which is; that, the hauing with rigorous seueritie punished an offence, did not displease; but pleased the people: and did as well to all good men, as to the meanest people, bring singular contentment. If this had hap∣pened through the ••uour of Fortune; I would haue reioyced with you, in your h•ppie successe; but this fell out vnto you, first through the magnanimitie of your minde, and then by your owne wise∣dome and councell. For I haue read the Oration that you made vnto the people. I neuer saw any thing fuller of vnderstanding. For point, by point, you do• so clo•ely come vp, to demonstrate the occasion of the fact, and then af∣terwards you retire your selfe with that dexteritie; that by an vniuersall consent of euery man, It seemed the matter it selfe solicited you, to chastise Page 447 the malefactors. You haue therefore free'd the towne from danger; and the Cittizens from feare. Neither onely at this instant; but for euer, while the memorie of so notable an act shall continue, you haue exceedingly bene∣fitted the Common-wealth. Therefore you must conceiue, that the whole Common-wealth relieth onlie vpon you: and that to you it belongs not only to preserue, but also to exalt them to honorable estate, ••om whom the beginning of libertie is deriued. But of these things, so farre as I hope, it will not be long; •re we discourse pre∣sentially. In the meane while; seeing you preserue the Common-wealth, and vs, attend with singular care, to pre∣serue your selfe. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 15.
I will answer two of your Epistles: one, that I receiued three daies since from Zethus; another, which Philerus the Poaste brought me. By the first, I vn∣derstood, that you were well pleased, to heare me so inquisitiue of your sicknes. And I am glad, that you conceiue my affection towards you: though I assure Page 448 you; that you could not so well appre∣hend it by my letters, as it is in effect. For, perceiuing my selfe to be honour∣ed, and beloued of many; (for I can∣not say otherwise;) amongst all those, there's not any one, more deare vnto me then you are: not onely because you lou• me, and haue loued moe of long time, and with perseuerance: (which, though it be a great, and per∣aduenture a verie extraordinarie mat∣ter: yet is it common to you, with ma∣ny others:) but also, because your selfe is so amiable, sweet, and euery waies courteous: which is a part proper to you alone: to which we may adde, a manner of •easting, not according to the Atticke, but conformable to the an∣cient R•mane vse, more ingenious th•n that of the A•ticks. And I, (make what reckoning of me you please) am won∣derfullie delighted with wittie c•n∣ceipts, especiallie with ours of Rome: which heretofore lost a great deale of their lustre, when our Citie came to be ouer-thronged with forraine nations; in that the tittle of Cittizens, which then was belonging only to the Latin• people; now conferred vpon nations, which come from beyond the moun∣taines, is the occasion that it daily loo∣seth that ancient facetious manner of speaking: so that almost no footsteps thereof remaineth. Wherefore when Page 449 I see you, me thinkes I see all the Grani•, all the Lucilij, and also to speake, as it is, all the Crassi, and Laelij. I would I were dead, if besides your selfe, I see any left me, in whom I can discerne any simi∣litude of those ancient pleasant straines of wit. Whereunto adding, so great loue, as that is, which you beare mee: doe you wonder, that I was so t•oubled for your grieuous, and dangerous ma∣ladie? And whereas in the other Epi∣stle you excuse your selfe, by saying, that you neuer diswaded me, from the purchase that I would haue made at Naples, but that you aduised mee to continue at Rome: neither did I euer vnderstand it otherwise. In deed I con∣ceiued that, which by these letters I ap∣prehend, that you •hought it was not good for me, as I also thought, to de∣part from hence; not altogether; but yet with a determination, to returne hither seldome. You speake to me of Catulus, and of those times. What con∣formitie is there? Then, it disliked me to remaine long time farre of, from the custodie of the Common-wealth. For we sate in the sterne, and gouerned the Rudder: but now we haue scarcely any place about the pumpe. Do you thinke now, though I shall bee at Naples, that for this cause they will forbeare, to passe decrees in the Senate? when being at Rome, & attending to publicke affaires; Page 450 the decrees of the Senate are registred in a friends house of thine, my familiar; and when they please, they subscribe my name thereto, as if I had beene pre∣sent. And I sooner heare of some de∣cree, transported into Armenia, and Syria, which seemes to be passed accor∣ding to my minde, then word is deli∣uered to me thereof. And thinke not, that I speake this in •east: Because you must note, that letters are alreadie brought mee from the farthest distant Kings that are; wherein they thanke me, for giuing them in the Senate, the title of Kings: the which I had not onlie, not done; but scarcely knew there were any such in the world. What must be done then? So long as this our master of ceremonies remains heere, I will neuerthelesse doe as you counsell me: when he is gone, I'le come to your Mushromes. If I shall haue an house; the charge which the law limiteth vs for one day, I'le di∣stribute into ten: but if I cannot meet with a scare, that contents me; I am determined to lie with you. For I know I cannot better gratifie you. A∣bout Silla's house, I had now almost lost all hope, as I last wrote vnto you: but yet I haue not altogether lost it; I should be glad, that you as you write, had viewed it in the companie of some Masons, for if there be no fault in the Page 451 walles, or the roofe, the rest will like me well enough. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 16.
YOur letters pleased me: and first, I was glad to vnderstand, that the affection you beare me, induced you to write vnto me, doubting lest Silius, with the newes he brought m•e, might haue put mee to some trouble of minde. A∣bout which thing, you wrote before vn∣to me, twice after one manner: so that I easily conceiued your dislike: and I had diligently returned answer there∣unto, to the end, that so well as in such an occasion, and time I was able, I might, at the least, in part, if not alto∣gether dispossesse you of your sorrow. But seeing in these last letters also, you shew what a care you haue of it: be as∣sured of this, my Paeto, that, whatsoe∣uer could bee done with Art, (for now councell s•rues not the turne, some new policie must bee inuented) I say, what by Art may bee attempted, or in∣uented, to purchase the loue of these Caesarians: that h•ue I labou•ed, and procured with all diligence possible: and in my opinion, very successefully. Page 452 For, I am so honoured, and reuerenced by them, to whom Caesar wisheth well, that I beleeue I am beloued of them. For, though I could hardly discerne true loue from fained, except vpon some occasion, wherein, as gold by the fire, so true loue may bee tried, and knowne by some danger; for other, are but common signes: neuerthelesse, I build vpon this, rather then any other thing, to thinke, that I am heartily, and •ruely beloued: that, both my fortune, and theirs is such, as there is no cause to dissemble. Then, as for him, who is Lord of all, I see not why I should feare; except in that, there is no security, where reason hath no authority. Nei∣ther can one promise any thing cer∣taine to himselfe, where, on others will (not to terme them appetites) euery thing dependeth. Notwithstanding, I haue not offended his minde in any thing: and therein I haue carefully v∣sed all my dexterity and prudence. For, as other whiles I thought, that it rather appertain'd to mee, then any other, to speake freely; as to him, that had beene a preseruer of the common liberty: so now, seeing it is lost, I thinke it not fit for me, to speak any thing, wc may offend either Caesars minde, or his friends. But, if I should omit the occasion, of some excellent saying, I should lose the opi∣nion conceiued of my wit: the which, Page 453 if I could, I would not refuse to doe. But yet Caesar himselfe hath a very good iudgement. And euen as your brother Seruius, whom I take to haue beene very learned, would readily say, this verse is not of Pl••tus, this is; because he was accustomed to read Poets and to note their passages: so I vnder∣stand, that Caesar, hauing of himselfe, made volumes of worthy sayings, if a∣ny thing bee presented him for mine, which is not, he vseth to reiect it: and he doth it now much more, because his most familiar friends, leade their whole life almost with me. Now, many things fall, in sundry disc•urs•s, which perad¦uenture, after I haue vttered them, yeeld some sauour of learning and vn∣derstanding; these are of•ered to him, together with other conceipts, which daily are inuented: For, so hee hath commanded. From hence it proceeds, that, if afterwards hee heare any thing of me, hee thinkes it not worthy to bee giuen eare vnto. For which cause, I make no vse of your E•omaus, though by way of merriment, you haue added there•o the verses of Accius. But what enuy is there? or, what thing is there in me, for which I should be enuied? But suppose, that it is, as you say: I see, that it so pleased the Philosophers, that is, those that seeme alone vnto me, to vn∣derstand the force of vertue: it pleased Page 454 them, I say, that a wise man should not bee bound, to render accompt of any thing, but of offence: from which I perceiue my selfe free, two wayes: First, because I alwaies had an vpright mind: next, in that when I saw, there was no meanes to defend our opinions, my conc•it was, that we ought not to con∣tend with the more mighty. I cannot th•refore certainely bee blamed in the office of a good Citizen. It remaines, that I neither doe, nor say any thing rashly, or foolishly against them, that gouerne the Common-wealth. And this also, I deeme to bee a poynt of a wise man. For other things, that which another sayes I haue spoken, or how Caesar construes my sayings, or with what fidelity they liue with me, which daily court, and honour mee, of this I cannot be secure. And thus I com•ort my selfe, partly with the memoriall of my life past, and partly by liuing now moderately: and that similitude, which the Poet Attius makes, I attribute not onely to enuie, but to fortune also: the which, as a weake thing, should be van∣quished, and broken by euery val•ant minde; no otherwise, then as a waue, is broken by a rocke. And in truth, the Greeke stories making mention; how, wise men haue alwayes supported the dominion of Tyrants, either in Athens, or Siracusa; hauing beene in some sort Page 455 free, during the seruitude of their Ci∣•ies: I'le not imagine, that I can so pre∣serue my state; that it neither off•nd the minde of some man, nor diminish mine owne honour. Now I come to your pleasant conceits: seeing, after At•ius his Oeno•a•es, you bring in, not as th•y were wont, Attellanus, but as the custome at this day is, Mimus. What Popilium, or Denarium, doe you t•ll me of? What dish of strong cheese? out of my ingenuous disposi•ion, I hither•o •upported these things; now the mat∣ter goes otherwise; I haue schollers in speaking, and masters in •ating, Hirtius and Dol•bella. For, I suppose you haue heard (if peraduenture all things come to your hearing) how they continually d•claime in my house; and I •at at their house. And it boots not you to sweare, tha• you want the meanes: for, when you were addicted to gather wealth; by my reasons, you made your selfe mor• studious therein: now, in that you con∣sume your substance with such pati∣ence; doe not beleeue, that I'le come into your house, like a Iudge to cor•ect you. And if I endamage you any thing: it will be a lesse euill, to bee damnified by a friend, then by a debtor. Neither doe I expect from you, such sumptuous suppers, that there remaine great super∣fluities. The meats that are, let them be exquisite, and well drest. I remem∣ber, Page 456 you were wont to t•ll me of a sup∣per of Phamea's: Let yours bee made more moderately, but after the same manner. And though you go about to inuite me to •upper at your mo•h••s, it shall also content me. For, I will see this bounty of minde, that dares put before me such thing•, as you write of, or else a Tolypus, as red, as that [mi∣niated] I•u•, which stands in th• Capi∣toll. I am of opinion, that you dare not performe so great matters. Before my comming, the r•port will come to your care, of the delicate meats, I begin •o feed vpon; you'l admire at it: and looke not I should rest contented, with that mingled beuerage of wine and ho∣ney: for I will by no meanes, abide •o see it. I care no more for your Oliu•s, and Salciccia's: But why discourse we of these things? I would wee might once come thither: I will content my selfe with that salt cheese, which you were wont to vse: and I'le put you, (for I'le rid you out of paine) to this onely charge, to cause of necessity, the Bath to be hea•ed. For other matters; follow our ordinary custome. These former •hings I vttered by way of mirth. As for the Silician Farme, you haue done me diligent offices therein, and written most pleasantly •hereof: so that I meane to leaue it: for the place is very pleasant. but there are few per∣sons Page 457 there, like vnto the place. Fare∣well.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 17.
YOu are a good man surely; seeing our Balbus lying with you, you would understand from mee, what will become of these lands, and townes. As if I knew any thing he knew not; or if I doe at any time know any thing, that I vse not to haue •rom him. Nay, and if you loue me, procure that I may vn∣derstand, what will become of vs. For, you had Balbus vnder your power, of whom you might haue knowne it. If not when hee was sober, at least, when you saw him well •ipled. But I hunt not my deere Paeto, after these newes: first, because we haue now liued foure yeeres by gettings, if one may terme it get∣ting, or this may be called a life, to sur∣uiue the Common-wealth: then; in that I suppose I know, what will fall out: For, that s•all fall out, which they affect, that are most powerfull; and armes are euer most powerfull. Wee must therefore be contented with that, which is granted vs. And hee that could not satisfie his minde with this, did well to dye. They fall a measuring Page 458 the Territorie of Veia, and C•pena, which is not verie far from my Tuscu∣lanum: yet I feare nothing: I enioy my selfe, while I am able, and de•ire to be able alwaies. The which, if it may not be: neuerthelesse, considering that I, who am a man of a great spirit, and a Philosopher, ha•e thought life verie precious; I cannot but loue him, through whose benefit, I now liue. Who, though peraduenture, hee desire that the Common-wealth should bee such, as he wo•ld, and all wee ought to wish for: yet can he dispose of nothing, hee is so colleagued with many. But I range too far, and I doe it, because I write to you. This I tell you in conclu∣sion, that not onely I, who am not pre∣sent at consultations; but not so much as the great man himselfe knowes, what is to ensue. For, we serue him; he, the times: and so neither he can conceiue, how the times will sort; nor wee, what he thinketh. I wrote not backe these things formerly vnto you; not because I vse to bee negligent; especially in writing; but hauing nothing of cer∣tainty; I would not perplex you, with ambiguities, nor put you in hope wi•h my affirmations. I will notwithstan∣ding adde •his, which is most true; that in these troubles, I haue hitherto heard nothing of this danger: yet, out of your accustomed discretion; you Page 459 should wi•h the best, forecast the worst, and support what commeth. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 18.
BEing idle in Tusculanum; because I haue sent my Disciples to meet Cae∣sar their acquaintance, with hope by this meanes, to recouer me his fauour; I receiued •our most pleasant letters: by which I vnderstood, that my coun∣sell pleased you. For, as Dionysius the Tyrant, being driu•n out of Siracusa, set vp, as is reported, a schoole, at Co∣rinth: So I, Courts of Iudgement be∣ing put to silence; and my Kingdome, of pleading causes, lost; haue applyed my selfe, as it were, to keepe a schoole. What desire you more? I am also glad I run this course. For, I come by this meanes, to obtaine many things: first, that which principally, at this instant, is necessary; I fortifie my selfe against this terrible season: I know not how good the way I hold is; but well I s•e, 'tis not wors•, then that which hath be•n held by others: except peraduen∣•ure it had b•en• be•ter to dye: in ones b•d, I'le grant: but this came not to passe: and at the battaile I was not. Page 460 others, [as] Pompeius, your Lentul••s, Scipio, [and] Afranius, dyed reproch∣fully; but Cato honourably: And this questionlesse, when wee will, wee may do•: yet let vs endeuour; as wee doe, that it may not be so necessary for vs, as for him. This is therfore the fi•st thing, which I purchase: and there is yet an∣other, that I grow better; first, in my health, which giuing ouer exercise, I had lost; then, that fluent vtte∣ra•ce, which I was wont to haue, (if I euer had it) if I had not beene reduced to these exercises, would haue been im∣paired. The last gaine I make; which peraduenture you'l esteeme, aboue all the fore-m•ntioned, is this; that by this time, I haue eaten more Peacocks, thē you haue done Pigeons. Make your selfe merry there, with Atteri•n broth, I'le be [merrie] here, with that of Hir∣tius. Come therefore, if you be a good fellow, and learne, now at length, to liue as you desire. Though I consider, I teach the Dolphines to swim. But seeing I perceiu•, that you cannot sell the pos∣sessions had of your debtors, for pay∣ment, according to Caesars valuation; nor fill a pot wi•h money, it b•hooues you to returne to Rome. I hold it farre better, that you should dye here with eating too much; then there, for want of meat. I see you haue consumed that, which you had. I hope your friends Page 461 haue done the like: you are there∣fore blowne vp, if you looke not to your selfe. You may ride to Rome vpon that Mule, which you say, is left you, seeing you haue eaten your G•lding. You shall haue a place in the schoole, as an Vsher, vnder mee, and withall, you shall haue a cushion. Fare∣well.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 19.
ANd y•t you leaue no• your won∣ted malice. You write •h•t B•lbus was content•d with a verie little: as minding to inferre; that if Balbus bee contented with lesse then indifferent suppers, much more ought I to be ther∣in satisfied, who am in respect of him, as one that hath beene Consull, is in respect of a King, much inferior. You know no•, that I haue wrung euery thing out of his mouth: you know not, that he came presently, to light at my house. Neither do I wōder so much, that he lighted not rather at yours, as, that he went not vnto his own So soon as I saw him; said I, what doth our P•∣to? and he sware vnto me, that he ne∣uer was more willingly in any place. If Page 462 you haue made him this man with words, I'le frame my •ares as apt to to heare you as his: but if with good cheere: Let me in fauour request you, not to thinke, that the Balbi are more worthie, then the eloquent. Euery day some impediment growes vpon mee: but if I can shake off matters, so, that I may come thither: I will worke after such a sort, that you shall not be abl• to excuse your selfe, that you were too late aduertised. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 20.
YOur letters affoorded me a double contentment; both because I haue laughed; and in that I vnderstood, that you, at length, can laugh. Neither am I displeased, that like a bad souldier, you haue loaded me with apples: but I am sorrie, that I could not come thi∣ther, as I determined. For, not for few daies, but continually, I would haue lodged with you. And thinke not, that your dish of wine and honie, should more haue seru'd my turne; From an egge to roasted veale, that is, from the beginning of supper, euen to the last, you should haue seene me rauen like a Page 463 Wolfe. You were wont to commend me as a man easily to be satisfied, and with a slender meale: now, I am whol∣lie chang'd. For now, I thinke no more on the Common-wealth; nor, what opinion I •hould deli•er in the Senate; nor, how I am to plead, and handle causes: I applie my selfe to an Epicurean life: not to the dissolute [life] at this day: but to that delicate, and moderate one, which you vsed, when you had plentie to spend: though at this time, you haue more Farmes then euer you had. So that, bee prepa∣red: you haue to doe with a man, that can eate soundly, and that now at length vnderstands somewhat: and men that haue learned late, you know how troublesome they are to content: and you must forget your banqueting dishes, and daintie Cakes. We are now come to that point, that we dare en•ite to supper, your Verrius, and Camillus: and you know, what delicate fellowes they are. But• obserue yet, a further presumption: I inuited Hirtius also to supper; but he gate no Peacockes. And at this supper, my Cooke, (besides hot broth,) sent vp no dishes, like to those that w•re vsuall at Hirtius suppers. This therefore is now my life. In the mor∣ning, I visite at home, many honest men, but in miserable condition; and these ioyfull Conquerors: Who in Page 464 troth, verie courteouslie, and louinglie entertaine me. After this my visitati∣on, I shut my selfe vp to my studies: either I compose something, or else I read. Some also come to heare me, as a learned man, because I am a little more learned then they are. After∣wards, all the rest of the time •is spent, about bodilie health. I haue lamented my countrie, more bitterly, and longer time, then euer Mother lamented her onely childe. If you wish mee well, procure your health: to the end I may not d•u•ur your substance, while you are sickelie. For I am resolued no• to s•are you, be you neuer so diseased. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 21.
IS it possible? doe you thinke you are fooli•h, in seeking to imitate me, in the flashes (for so you tearme them) of my speeches? you should be foolish indeed, if you could not attaine there∣unto: but, seeing in this, you doe not only equalize, but exceed mee; you should •coffe rather at me, then at your selfe. That saying of Trabea, con∣curres not with you: I am hee that la∣bours Page 465 in vaine. But tell me a little? What seeme I to you, in my Epistles? doe you not thinke, I discourse with you, in vulgar tearmes? For wee must not alwaies speake after one manner. It is one thing, to write an Epistle; ano∣th•r, to pleade a cause; another, to speake to the people. Nay, the causes themselues are not to be handled after one fashion: In priuate matters; and not in all; bu• in those of light impor∣tance, •uery thing must more nicely be scanned: but where a mans person; his goods; or his honor is questioned; greater ornament of eloquence is re∣quired. Epistles are wont to be framed of words dailie vsed. But I pray you, my Paeto, how came it into your minde to say, that there was neuer any Papiri∣us, which was not a plebeian? For, mean•r f•milies, haue beene of the Pa∣trician order. The first of them, was Lucius Papirius M•gi••an•us, who was Consull, with L•cius Sempronius Atrati∣nu•, hauing b•ene before Censor, with the sam• [colleague] 312. yeares after the building of Rome. But then, you were c•lled Papi••. After these, there were xiij. more, which obtained of the higher dignities, before Lucius Papirius Crass••, who was the first that gaue o∣ue•• he name P•pisius. This man was dict•tor, and had for captaine of the ranke M•letarie, Lucius P•piri•• Cursor, Page 466 415. yeeres after the building of Rome: and foure yeeres after he was Consull, with Ceso Duillio. After these came Cur∣sor, a verie honourable man: then Lu∣cius Masso, who in demaunding the Ae∣dileship died. After him, many Masse∣nes: of which Patricians, I would haue you reserue pictures in your house. Then follow the Carbones, and the Tur∣di: these were Plebeians, of whom I would haue you make no account. For besides this C••ius Carbo, who was slain by Damasipp•s, none of the Carbones, e∣uer benefitted the Common-wealth. We knew C•eius Carbo, and that his in∣famous brother. Who can bee more wicked then they were? of this friend of mine the sonne of Rubria I say no∣thing. There were three brethren, Publius, Caius, Marcus, surnamed Car∣bones. Publius, accused by Flaccus, was condemned. Marcus fled out of Sicilia: Caius being accused by Lucius Crassus, as 'twas said, poysoned himselfe. Thi• man was a seditious Tribune of the people, and was reported to haue mur∣dred Publius Scipio Africanus: but in my iudgement, there neuer liued a verier villaine then this fellow, that was slaine by our Pompeius at Lilibaeum. And al∣so his father, accused by Marcus Anto∣nius, it is not well knowne after what manner hee came to bee absolued: wherefore my opinion is, that you Page 467 should cleaue to the Patricians, for you see, what bad members the plebeians haue proued. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 22.
I Loue the modestie; but rather the li∣bertie of speech. And Zeno was of this opinion, a very ingenious man questi∣onlesse; but greatly opposite to our Academians: But as I say, the Stoicks are of opinion, that euery thing should bee called by it owne name: affirming, that in it, is neither obscenitie, nor inciuili∣tie: and they proue it by this argument. If there be any obscenitie in speech, it must needs be either in the thing signi∣fied; or the word signifying; it can be no where else. In the thing signified it is not; And therefore we see, that not onely in Comedies, the act is plainely expressed, as it is: whereupon Lucilius in his Demiurgus, brings in one vttering these words: which peraduenture you haue heard vpon the stage, & you may call to mind Roscius, when he recited them. He left me lately naked in such fas•i∣on: where the speech in respect of the words, is altogether modest; as for the matter, a little inmodest. But in Tra∣gedies Page 468 also: what thinke you of that verse;
And of that other;
And of this;
Or of these other:
In stead of violate, he might haue v∣sed ano•her word, signifying the same thing: but it would haue sounded too immodest. You see therefore, that a thing is not dishonest that is vttered with honest words: and yet the words alter not the signification: which is a signe, that euery thing is honest by na∣ture. And therefore, if there be no di∣shonesty in things, much lesse in words. So that, if the •hing signified be not di∣shonest, the word that signifies, cannot be dishonest. You doe not say anus, but you •erme it by the nam• of some other thing. Why? if the thing signified bee dishonest; expresse it wi•h what words you will, the matter shall euer be disho∣nest: if it be not? Why doe you not terme it by it owne proper name? Aun∣cien•ly cauda was called penis, from whence the word peniculus proceedeth; because it hath some similitude of •hat Page 469 Cauda, or taile: but at this day, the word Penis, is accoūted among strude words, or dishonest: & Piso Frugi in the book•s of his Histories complaines, that young men are dedicated to [that] Penis. That which in your Epistle, you terme by it proper name, hee couertly cals penis. Which word being growne common to so many; is now accounted as disho∣nest, as that you vsed. Now, what shall we thinke? Whereas vulgarly men say: Cu• noste volumus conuenire. Appeares it not obscene to say, Cum nos? I remem∣ber that a wise Consular, speaking in the Senate, vttered these words: Hanc culpam maiorem, an illam dicam? Could he haue fallen into greater obscenitie? You will say it was no obscenitie: b•∣cause hee vttered it not in that sense: words therefore are not they which make obsceniti•: and, that things make it not, it is manifest by that which I haue before deliuered. We must there∣fore conclude, that the same not being in words, nor in things, is no where. To endeuour to get children, is so honest∣ly spoken, that Fathers themselues are wont to put their children in minde thereof: but the proper •erme of such endeuour, they dare not vtter. Socrate• learn'd the Art of playing vpon an In∣strument, of an excellent Musitian, whose name was Connus: take you this to be an obscene word? When we say, Page 470 Terni, we speake not vnmannerly; but when Bini, it is immodest. To the Graecians, you'le say. There's therefore no dishonestie in the word: For I vn∣derstand Greeke also: and yet I say vn∣to you bini: and you performe it, as if I had spoken it in Greeke, and not in L•∣tine• Ruta, and Menta be honest words: but if I would terme the little Menta, after the same manner as we say Rutu∣la, it would not doe well. You say, bell• tectoriola: giue me therefore the dimi∣nutiue of pauimenta, 'twill sound ill. Now you see, al these are but fooleries: & that there is no obscenitie in words; much lesse in things; from whence it followes, that it's no where. Therefore let vs couch dishonest things vnder mo∣dest words. For I would know; is not Diuisio a modest word? but some im∣modest sence is included in it: and Di∣uisio belongs to the agen•; intercapedo to the patiēt. Are such words vpō this oc∣casion, dishonest? And we cockscombs, if we say, This man strangled his Father, we put not in before, Sir reuerence: but if we would nomina•e Aurelia, or Lollia being Harlots, before we name them, we must say, with reuerence. And cer∣tainely, words modest, are vsed some∣times for immodest. T• say, Batuit, it seemes vnciuilly spoken: Depsit, more vnciuillie: and yet nor the one, nor the other is dishonest. The world is full of Page 471 fooles. Test•s, in place of iudgement, is a very honest word; in another place it is not so: you may also honestly say, Colei Lanuvini: but Cli•e•ini cannot bee so modestly spoken. And not onely words, but things also, are sometimes honest, sometimes dishonest. To say, suppedit, is an obscene speech: but let a man speake it of one, that is naked in a Bathe, and 'tis not obscene. You haue heard the Stoickes reasons. If you bee wise, you'le speake ciuillie. I haue made a long tale, vpon one word onely of your Epistle: I am glad, that you take leaue to speake with me, without re∣spect. I like, and euer will like to follow the modestie of speech: as Plato accu∣stometh. Whereupon I haue treated of this argument, with shrouded words, which the Stoickes handle very openly: but these men affirme also, that farting should be as free, as belching. I haue therefore vsed •his respect, in reuerence of the time present. Vouchsafe to loue me, and be carefull of your health. The first of March. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 23.
YEsterday I came to Cumaenum: to morrow peraduenture I'le be with you: and, if I come, you shall know of it a little before. Though, when Mar∣cus Ceparius met me in the wood Galli∣naria, and I demanded of him, what you did; and he told me, you kep• your b•d, by reason you had the gowt in your feete: I was questionlesse sorrie, as reason required. But notwithstan∣ding, I am resolu'd to come & see you, as well to visite you, as to sup with you. For, though you haue the gowt in your feet; your Cooke, I hope, hath it not in his hands. Expect me therefore, but as a man of spare dyet, and an enemie to sumptuous suppers. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 24.
THough I had bin offended by this Rufus, your friend, of whom you haue now twice written vnto me: yet would I not forbeare to fauour him, in what I were able; seeing you are so Page 473 carefull of his occasions: but hauing now both by your letters, and also by those which he sent me, gathered and iudged, that hee entirely affected my safetie; I cannot but be a friend vnto him; not onely for your recommenda∣tion, the which, as reason requires, is of great force with me; but wi•hall, tho∣rough mine owne inclination, and vn∣derstanding. For I would you should know, (my Paeto) that the originall of my i•alousie, and the diligence, that I vsed in looking carefully to my selfe; grew from your letters: to which the letters of many others, were afterwards conformable. For both in Aquinum, & Fabrateria, there were practises against me; which I see, you came to know∣ledge of. And they, as it were, presa∣ging, how troublesome I should be vn∣to them, minded nothing, but to op∣presse me. Whereof, I hauing no iea∣lousie, peraduenture I might haue fallen into some danger, if I had not beene by you aduertised. And therefore this your friend, with me, needs no recom∣mendation. I desire nothing now, but that the fortune of the commonwealth proue so, as he may acknowledge me for an excellen• pay master. But enough of this. I am sorrie, you haue giuen o∣uer going to banquets. First, because you haue depriued your selfe of a singu∣lar delight and contentment; and then Page 474 (for betweene our selues we may speak truth) because I feare, you'le lose what before you had learned; & that you will forget to make those delicate suppe••, For if, when you had one to imitate, you profited not much; what may I thinke you will now doe? when I had told Spurina the matter; and explained the customes of your life past; verilie, he demonstrated, that the Common-wealth vnderwent a great hazard, if at the beginning of the Spring, you re∣t•rned not to your former vse of ban∣quetting: but now while winter lasteth it might be endured. In good earnest, I aduise you; if you meane to leade an happie life; to keepe companie with your good, pleasant, and louing friend•. [For] nothing more befitteth life, no∣thing affordeth greater happinesse then it. Neither spe•ke I this, in respect of the pleasures, but in respect of liui•g, and eating together, and the libertie of minde: which is more enioyed in fa∣miliar discourse, •hen any way else, and this is most pleasing at inuitements• so that our countrie men, named it much more wisely then the Graecians did: they call'd it 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, which signifie to drinke, and sup together, our countrie men tearmed them Con∣uiula, because then especiallie men liue together. Doe you obserue how I by Philosophicall reasons, labour to re∣duce Page 475 you, to your old custome of sea∣sting? Regard your health: wherein nothing will more helpe you then to go often abroade to supper. But if you wish me well, suppose not, though I write ieastingly, that I haue laid a•ide the care of the Common-wealth. Be perswaded of this my Paeto, that day, and night, I attend and sollicite, no o∣ther thing; but that my Cittizens may be safe, and enioy their libertie. I omit no occasion to admonish, endeauour, and prouide. I haue finally propoun∣ded to my selfe, to repute it for my greatest Fortune, if need were, to lay downe my life, in this care, and admi∣nistration. Once more Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 25.
YOur letters haue made me a very valiant Captaine. Questionles•e, I knew not, that you vnderstood so much, of the art of warre: I see you haue read, and read ouer againe, the bookes of Pyrrhus, and Cynea. Where∣upon I am resolued to obey your pre∣cepts: and moreouer, to haue a little barke readie vpon the coast. And they say against the Parthian Cauallerie, Page 476 there cannot be found a better armour. But why iest we? You know not with what a Captaine you are to buckle. I haue put in practise, whatsoeuer I read in Xenophons Cyrus, which booke I had worne out with continuall reading. But wee'le ieast another time at our mee∣ting; and ere it be long, as I hope. Now come to be commanded, (as the old saying was) or (to speake more plainely) to obey me. I hold an in∣ward amitie, with Marcus Fabius, as I thinke you know: and I loue him ex∣ceedingly; first, for the rare bountie, and singular modestie, I discerned in him; then, because in these controuer∣sies, which I entertaine, with the Epi∣cureans, your table associates; I am wont to reape from him great furthe∣rance. He comming therefore to me at Laodicea, and I desiring, that he would remaine with me; he was presently stroken with terrible letters; wherein was written: how the H•rculanensian grange of his brother Quintus Fabius, was exposed to sale; though it belon∣ged not to him onely, but was com∣mon betweene them both. Whereat Marcus Fabius, was deepely disconten∣ted: and grew to be of opinion, that his brother, as a man of small vnder∣standing, was thereunto induced by his enemies. Now, if you loue mee my Pato, take vpon you this whole Page 477 busines•e, a•d remoue Fabius out of this perplexitie. You may herein further vs, with your authoritie, councell, and •auour. Permit not, that two brothers goe to suite, and contest, to the shame, and preiudice of them both. Enemies to Fabius, are Matho, and Pollio: What needes more wordes? Vndoubtedlie, I cannot write vnto you at full, what a pleasure you shall doe mee, in drawing him out of this labyrinth. Which hee vnderstands to lye in your power; and makes me also be∣leeue it. Farewell.
Cicero to Papirius Paeto. Epist. 26.
I Was set at the table, about nine of the clocke, when I wrote to you this present letter. You'l say, Where? In the house of Volumnius E•trapelus: and there were, your two familiar acquain∣tances, Atticus, and Verrius; Atticu• a∣boue, and Verrius beneath mee. Doe you wonder, that being her•tofore so regular, I should now bee so much de∣lighted Page 478 with merrie entertainments? What should I doe now? I aske coun∣sell of you, who heares a Philosopher. Should I burie my selfe in thoughts? Should I excrutiate my selfe? What might I get [thereby]? And then, to what end? you might liue, you'l say, in letters. Thinke you, that I doe not so? I could not liue, if I sought not to liue in l•tters. But euen of those, there is also, not a satietie, but yet a measure, or proportion. Whereunto, when I haue a while bent my minde, I repaire to in∣uitements, because I know not what else to doe, before bed time: Although inuitements (wheron your controuersie grew with Dion the Philosopher) are of no great esteeme with mee. Hearken to the rest. Vnder Eutrapelus was plac't Cyt•ris; Oh! you will here cry out, that, that Cicero should neuer haue gone to such an inuitement;
