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

THE TWELFTH BOOKE OF THE FAMILIAR EPISTLES OF M. T. CICERO.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 1.

BE assured Cassius, that I ne∣uer cease to think vpon you, and our Brutus, that is, of the whole Cōmonwealth; which hath reposed all her hope, in you, and Decimus Brutus. And certain∣ly from this time forward, I begin to conceiue better hopes: seeing may Do∣labella hath performed such materiall seruice to the Common-wealth. For that euill, which sprung vp in the Citie,

continually dispersed it s••lfe, and euerie day so encreased, that for my part, I held both the Citie, and the peace of Citizens, vtterly lost. But it is so stop't, that, as for that reprochfull danger, I suppose, wee may liue for euer secure. Other th••ngs, that yet remaine to bee acted, are important and many: but you must be the man, that must effect them al: Though we are intentiue to dispatch those, which are of greatest moment. For, touching that which hath hitherto beene done; wee haue freed our selues of the King; but not of the Kingdom. For, though the King be slaine, yet we put all that in execution, which the King appointed to be performed. And not onely this; but some things also, which hee himselfe, if hee had liued, would not haue acted; wee approue because hee designed them. And of this, I know not when wee shall see an end. New Lawes are propounded: exemptions are granted: great taxes imposed: banished men are restored: [and] false decrees of the Senate are produced: so as it seemes, that the ha∣tred onely of that wicked man, and the greefe of seruitude is remoued; but the Common-wealth is still torment••d with those troubles, whereinto hee brought her. Of all these things, you must make an end, of necessitie; and not suppose, that the Common-wealth

hath had alreadie from you what was sufficient. Shee hath indeed so much, as I would neuer haue hoped for: but shee is not content with this: and the greatnesse of your benefit and courage considered, shee expects, and desires frō you, greater matters. Hitherto, with the death of the Tyrant, and by your meanes, she is reuenged of her iniuries: but which of her ornaments hath shee recouered? Take you, peraduenture, these for ornamen••s, that shee obeyes him dead, whom liuing shee could ••ot support? or, that wee defend his wri∣tings; whose Lawes we ought to abro¦gate? you'l tell me, we so determined. It is true: But wee did it, to giue way vnto the times, which in a Common-wealth, are of great ••or•••• But some, bearing themselues indiscreetly, and vngratfully, assume too much securitie, vpon our courtesie. Of which, and manie other things, wee will shortly discou••se at our meeting In the meane while, perswade your selfe, that I, both in respect of the Common-wealth, which was euer most d••a••e vn••o me, as also for the loue we beare one another: haue an especiall care of your dignity. Looke vnto your heath. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 2.

I Am verie glad, that my sentence, and Oration, giues you content. The which, if I could often vse, it would be no great labour to vs, to re-establish the Common-weal••h in l••bertie. But this foolish, and debauched compani∣on, (and a wicked•••• wretch, then hee was, of whom you we••e won•• to say, that there was sl••ine an impious man,) se••kes all meanes to procure a murder: and hee doth, for no other end charge me, th••t I plo••ted Caesars death; but be∣cause the old souldiers might rise vp a∣gainst mee. Which danger no wayes daunts me; so that I may also purchase praise for that, which you most glori∣ously haue ••ffected. A••d thus, neither Piso, who was ••he first that spake against him, without anie man to second him; nor I, who a ••onth after, did the like; nor Publius Ser••••lius, who spake after me; can secur••ly goe into the Senate. For, that b••oudie fellow vseth all mean••s, to p••ocu••e some slaughter: and, the xx. of Se••tember, he thought to begin with mee. And I can tell you, he cam•• prouided i••to the Senate, ha∣uing for manie d••ies, in Metellus vil∣l••ge, w••ll conside••ed that, which hee

meant to vtter against me. But, what sound consultations could hee haue a∣middest wine, and brothels? and ther∣fore euerie one thought, as before I wrote vnto you, that after his accusto∣med manner, hee would haue vomited, and not declaimed. Therefore, whe••as you write, that you trust, that some good may be done by our authoritie, and eloquence: in truth, some benefit, in r••spect of so many euils, hath beene alreadie wrought. For, the people of R••me know, that there are three consu∣lar persons, who, for hauing spoken freely, what they thought behoouefull for the Common-wealth, cannot se∣curely goe into the Senate. Neither must you expect any thing else. For, your greatest friend ioyes wholly in his new affinitie. So that, he cares no more for sports: and he hu••sts for enuie, see∣ing the fauour, which the people, with cheerfull shouts, ••••••ord your brother. That other kinsm••n, is also pacified by the ••ew Comment••••i••s of Caesar. These things are toler••bl••: But this is insup∣po••table; that there is one, who per∣sw••des himselfe, tha•• in your yeere his son should bee Consull; and for this cause, he seemes diligently to court this villaine. Lucius Cotta, my familiar friend, through a certaine fatall de∣s••aire, as he sai••h, comes not much in∣to the S••nate. Lucius Caesar, an excel∣lent,

and valiant Citizen, is hindred by sicknesse. Seruius Sulpitius, who is of great ••steeme, and desirous of the ge∣nerall good, is not in Rome: the o••hers, ex••ept those elected, pardon mee, if I terme them not Consula••es you know, who are the principall defenders of the Senate; who, if the Common-wealth were peaceable, were but a f••w: but, fewer now, when she is in molesta••ion. Wherefore, all hope lies in you; ••he which, notwithstanding, ••••es not in you neither, if you remaine far off, for your securitie; but if you en••er i••to any en∣terprise worthie of ••our glorie; I would it might be comp••ssed, wit•• our safetie: If not; yet this is most ••••rt••ine, that by your meanes the Commonwealth in shor•• time shall be able to recouer her former beeing I ••••i••her am, no•• will be wanting to y••ur friends: w••o•• whe••her they seeke m••e, or not, I w••ll discharge ••hose office••, ••or your sake, which may beseeme the trust, and loue I beare you. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 3.

YOur friend doth euerie day more then other, shew his m••dnesse ••nd bestialitie. First, in the Statua, that h••

erected in the Rostra, he hath in grauen these words. TO OVR BEST DESERVING PARENT. So that men thinke, th••t you haue not onely committed homicide; but that you haue betrayed your Countrey. Why doe I say, you? I should say, wee: for that furious fellow affirmes, that I was the Ring••leader of that your no∣table seruice. I would I had beene: he should not now haue thus molested vs. But this concern••d you. Which, seeing it happened not. I would to God I had counsell to giue you. But yet I doe not see, what I should doe my selfe; and what can bee attempted against force, without force? And all their designe is this, of Caesar. Whereupon he, being by Canu••ius, conducted to speake vnto the people, the second day of October: in veri•• truth departed disgracefully. But yet he vttered [••uch] things of you, who haue preserued your Countrey, as should h••ue beene deliuered of one, that had betrayed it. Of my selfe hee spake this; that hee was most assured, that, as you heretofore; so now, Canu∣••ius did all things by my directions. The rest, how it is, iudge by this; that they haue t••ken away the prouision ••rom your Legate, which is vsually al∣••owed, for his iourney. What is their meaning, thi••ke you, in doing this? Vn∣••oubtedly, that he is the Legat, not of a

friend, but of an enemie to the Com∣mon-wealth. Oh wonderfull miserie! We could not support the Master: and now we serue our fellow-se••uant. And yet, for all this, (though I desire more then I can hope for) there still remaines some hope in your valour. But where are the men? I conceale the rest: and leaue it to your selfe to bee considered. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 4.

I Would you had inuited mee to that supper, on the xv. of March; not a dish of meat should haue remained. Now your reliques disturbe mee, more then anie man else. We haue Consuls of sin∣gular valour, but bad Consulars; the Senate is verie resolute, but those that are most resolute, haue least au••horitie. You can desire no more of the people: they are most valiant, and singularly well enclined; and so is all Italy. On the contrarie, Philippus and Piso, Am∣bassadours, beare themselues after such a fashion; as there was neuer any thing more brutish, or impious [For] ••eing sent to Antonius, to propound some things vnto him, in the behalfe of the

Senate; and he not willing to perform any of them: they, without the Se∣nates order accepted from him, and brought vs intolerable demands. And therefore euerie one hath recourse to me; and at length, in matte•• of pub∣lique safetie, I haue the loue, and con∣course of the people. But from you, I had no aduertisements, neither what you did, or intended to doe, nor where you were. The rumour was, you were in Syria, but there was no certaintie thereof. Of Brutus, not being so farre off, the newes that come seeme truer. Dolabella hath beene much blamed by men of vnderstanding, because hee so suddenly sought for the gouernment o•• Syria, your Prouince; you hauing not beene there full thirtie dayes. Where∣fore, euerie man was of opinion; that he should not be receiued by you there. Great commendation is ascribed to you, and Brutus; because men iudge, that you haue, beyond all hope, raised an Armie. I would write more at large, if I knew how things stood, and in what estate you were. And what I now write vnto you, I write out of the opinion of men, and according to fame. I desi∣rously expect your letters. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 5.

I Suppose, that hitherto the winter hath beene some hinderance, that we could not heare certainely, what you did; and least of all, where you were: neuerthelesse, euerie one affirmed, (out of their desire, as I suppose) that you were in Syria, and had forces. Which, was the more easily beleeued, in that it seemed probable. Our Brutus hath made ••urchase of singular praise: hauing performed such great ma••ters, and so far beyond the opinion of all men; tha••, besides their being acceptable of themselues; they are, for the expedition vsed therein, much more welcome. Wherefore, if those places bee in your power, which wee suppose; the Com∣mon-wealth is fortified with great de∣fences. For, euen from the first limits of Greece, as far as Aegypt, wee shall be assisted, by excellent Citizens, that go∣uerne those quarters; and by their peo∣ple. Although (in my opinion) matters were at that passe; that all the danger of the warre seemed to bee in Decimus Brutus: and we hoped, that hee would free himselfe from the asseige, by which hee is inuironed; and valiantly come out into the field; which, if it fall out,

the war will be thought ended. Howso∣euer, he was now at length beleaguered but by a few men. For, Antonius had a great garrison in Bononia; and at Cla∣terna, was our Hirtius; and Caesar, at F••rum Cornelium, both of them with a great Armie: and Pa••sa had in Rome, leuied many men, which were raised in Italie by choice. The winter was an impediment, that as yet, the enterprise was not attempted. Hirtius made shew, as by frequent letters hee signifies to me; that hee would doe nothing, but deliberately. Except Bononia, Regium in Lombardie, and Parma, we had Gaul•• wholly deuoted to the Common-wealth. And the Transpadani, your Clients, stood wonderfully for vs. The [whole] Senate, (besides the Consula∣res,) was most resolued: of whom, there is onely Lucius Caesar, that is most constant, and who aimes directly at the publique good. Wee haue lost a great stay, ••y the death of Seruius Sulpitius•• The others, are partly hollow-hearted, and in part maleuolent: Some enuie their praise, whom they see commen∣ded in the Common-wealth. But the people of Rome, and all Italie, are won∣derfully vnited. These breefly were the matters, with which I desired you might bee acquainted. Now I desire, that from those Easterne parts, the light of your valor may be resplendent. Fare∣well.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 6.

HOw things stood, when I wrote you these letters, you may vnder∣stand from Caius Tidius Strabo, an ho∣honest man, and verie well enclined to the Common-wealth; and to you, so affected, that onely to come, and finde you out, hee hath abandoned his house and substance. And therfore it is needlesse, that I should recommend him to you; his comming may bee a sufficient recommendation. As for our affaires, you are to imagine, and per∣swade your selfe thus much, that all good mens ••••••uge ••••es in you, and Mar∣cus Brutus; if it fortune, that things succeed not in Italy, as they were wi∣shed; which God forbid. When I wrote th••se letters to you, matter•• were reduced to their last triall. Fo••, Brutus could now no longer keepe himselfe in Mutina. Who being preserued, the vi∣ctorie is ours: if not•• which God grant otherwise; wee will all flye to you, as to the hauen of safetie. Wher∣fore, you must take vpon you so great a courage, and make such preparation, as is necessary for the recouerie of the Common-wealth. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 7.

WIth what care, both in the Se∣nate, and with the people, I haue defended your honour, I had ra∣ther you should vnderstand from other friends, then from my selfe. Which sentence of mine, in the Senate, would easily haue preuailed, if Pansa had not violently opposed it. This sentence be∣ing deliuered, Marcus Seruilius, Tribune of the people, brought mee to speake vnto the assembly. I deliuered of you, what I could, in the audience of so great a multitude, as the Forum was able to containe; with such a shout, and consent of the people, as I neuer saw the like I desire that you would par∣don me, though I did in this against the will of your mother in law. She, being fearefull, as women are wont to bee, doubted lest Pansa might haue beene offended. True it is, that Pansa spea∣king to the people, alledged, that your mother, and your brother, were not willing, that I should haue denounced such a sentence. But I was not moued with these things: my minde was of another matter: I sought the good of the Common-wealth, which I euer af∣fected, together with your honour, and

estimation. But of that, which I both largely discoursed, in the Senate, and deliuered to the people; I would haue you, to acquit my promise. For, I haue promised, and in a manner confirmed; that you neither did, nor would expect our decrees; but that of yourselfe, ac∣cording to your custome, you would defend the Common-wealth. And though wee had not yet vnderstood, either where you were, or what Forces were with you: yet I presupposed, that all the Forces, and people, of those quarters, were in your power. And I held for certaine, that the Prouince of Asia, was ere this, by your means reco∣uered. Now beare your selfe so, that in augmenting your owne glorie, you goe beyond your selfe. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 8.

AMongst other aduertisements, which you haue of the proce••∣dings of Rome, I think you haue vnder∣stood, of the wickednesse, extreme le∣uitie, and inconstancie of your kins∣man Lepidus. Which was the cause, that whereas wee iudged, the warre to haue beene ended, now wee are enfor∣ced,

to war, more then euer. All our hope consists in Decimus Brutus, and in Plancus: but, to speake truth, we haue greater in you, and in my Brutus; hop∣ing that you will not onely preserue vs, if matters here, which God forbid, suc∣ceed not; but also establish vs in perpe∣tuall libertie. We heard of Dolabella, that which we desired: but we had no certainetie thereof. For your selfe, be out of doubt, that hitherto you are reputed, a great man: and it is expected, that hereafter likewise, you will make your selfe, knowne for such. Proposing thus much vnto your selfe, labour to come on a pace, to the height of enter∣prises. The people of Rome, are of o••i∣nion, that there is nothing, but may by you be compassed, and obtained. Fare∣well.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 9.

THe breuitie of your letters will be the cause, that I also shall be briefe in writing. And, to speake truth, I h••ue not much whereof to write; knowing assuredly, that the proceedings of Rome, are related vnto you, by the ordinarie

aduises; and of yours, in these parts, we heare nothing. For as if Asia, were on euery side shut vp, there come no ad∣uertisements vnto vs, but onely a ru∣mor, that Dolabella is vanquished: which hitherto is not verified: though they still talke thereof. When wee supposed the warre ended, vpon a suddaine through your Lepidus, we are fallen a∣gaine into exceeding great trouble. And the greatest hop•• the Common-wealth hath, is in you, and your people. True it is, that we haue mightie armies: neuerthelesse, though all things should succeed, as I hope, happily, [y••t] it much impo••ts that you come [hither,] for, the hope of the Common-wealth, is but little: I will not say, none at all. But, what is, men looke it should take effect, in the yeare of your Consulship. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Cassius. Epist. 10.

LEpidus your kinsman; [and] my familiar friend; together with o∣thers, that revolted against the Com∣mon-wealth; were, by common con∣sent of the Senate, the last of Iune, de∣nounced rebells. To whom notwith∣standing,

all August was graunted to be thinke themselues. The Senate, que∣stionlesse, is full of courage, and the ra∣ther by reason of the hopes they con∣ceiue of your succour. The warre at the writing hereof was very hot: for which we may ••hanke the wickednesse, and inconstancie of Lepidus. We heare euery day that newes, which we desire of Dolabella. But as yet they haue no ground; nor come they from any per∣son worthie of credite. There is onely a muttering thereof amongst the multi∣tude. Neuerthelesse, by the informa∣tions of your letters, written from the Campe the seuenth of May; the Cittie was of firme beliefe, that he was by this time suppressed. And that you would come into Italie with your Armie. To the end, that if things here had the same issue, which we desired, we might em∣ploy your councell, and authoritie: But if through hard Fortune, they were doubtfull, as it ordinarily falls out in warres; we might be assisted by your armie; which I will helpe to the best preferment I am able. About which, it will then be a fit time to negotiate, when it shall be knowne what ayde it will [now] afford the Common-wealth, and what formerly it hath af∣forded. For hitherto, their endeuours onely haue beene heard of; extraordi∣nary doubtlesse, and generous: but, the

effect is that, that is expected. Which, I trust, hath in some sort alreadie suc∣ceeded: or will succeede very shortly. For valour, and magnanimitie you are aboue all men esteemed. And therefore we desire out of hand to see you in Ita∣lie. If we haue but you, we shall thinke we haue a Common-wealth. The warre had beene altogether finished, if Lepidus had not receiued Antonius, who disarm'd, and spo••led, tooke his heeles. Whereupon, Antoniu•• was neuer so hatefull to the Cittie, as Lepidus is at this present. For the one raysed warre in the troubles of the Cōmon-wealth; the other in her peace, and victorie. Against this man, we haue Decimus; and Plancus, elected Consulls. In whom, great hopes are conceiued•• But the vn∣certaine issue of Battailes, makes vs re∣maine very doubtfull. Be therefore per∣swaded, that all lyes vpon you, & Bru∣t••s. And, that you are bo••h expected; but Brutus hourely. And, though, as I hop••, your enemies will be vanquished before ••ou come; yet, by your autho∣ritie, the Common-wealth will get vp againe, and settle her selfe in some e∣state, that shall be tollerable. For there are many things which must be look••t vnto, when it fortuneth, that the com∣mon weal••h, shall be wholly free'd from the daunger of her wicked'st ene∣mi••s. ••arewell.

Caius Cassius Vice-consull, to Cicero. Ep. 11.

IF you be in health, it pleaseth me: I am healthfull. I giue you notice, that I am gone into Syria, to se••ke Lucius Marcus, & Quintus Crispu••, Imperator's. Who, when they had heard in what a∣gitation things were at Rome; as excel∣lent, and valiant Cittizens, they gaue into my hands their Armi••s: and cou∣ragiously, together with me, they ap∣ply themselues vnto the seruice of the Common-wealth. And I further ad∣uertise you, that the Legion, that Quin∣tu•• Caecilius B••ssus had, is come to me. And that Aulus Allienus h••th consign∣ed ouer the foure Legions which he conducted out of Aegypt, to me also. Now, I cannot imagine it to be anie wayes needfull, for me to exhort you to defend the common-wealth, and vs, so far a•• is requisite. I desire you should vnderstand, that powerfull aydes are not wanting, eyther to you, or to the Senate. Wherefore, with cheerefull hopes, and great courage goe on, to de∣fend the Common-wealth. About the rest, Lucius Carteius, a friend of mine, shall conferre with you. Farewell. This fi••t of March. From the Camp's a∣mongst the Taricheae.

Caius Cassius Vi••e-consull, to Cicero. Ep. 12.

IF you be in health, I am glad; my selfe am so. I redde your letters, wherein I perceiue your singular loue towards me. For, you seeme not onely to fauour vs; as, in respect of the com∣mon-wealth, and for our owne sakes you euer did: but further; to be verie carefull in our behalfe, and to remaine much perplexed. Whereupon, I suppo∣sing you thought, that while the Com∣mon-wealth was supprest, we could haue no repose; and that you were much troubled, in that you doubted of our safetie: I had no sooner receiued the Legions, which Aulus Allienus con∣ducted out of Aegypt, but I presently wrote vnto you; and sent many post's to Rome. I also wrote vnto the Senate; but, I appoynted that my letters should not be presented, till you had red them, if my people haue obserued what I commaunded. But, in case my letters haue not beene safely deliuered; I am sure, that Dolab••lla, (which killing Tre∣bonius by trecherie, hath possessed all Asia) hath taken my Corrier's, and in∣tercepted them. All ••he Armies which were in Syria, are in my power. I haue beene somewhat slow in paying ••he

souldiers what I promised; [yet] now at length, I find my selfe ridde of care. But, because you know, that I haue re∣fused no perill, nor labour in the seruice of the Common-wealth; And that perswaded, and aduised by you, I haue taken vp Armes, against a faction of wi••ked rebels; and that I haue not one∣ly assembled an armie, in defence of the Common-wealth, and libertie; but al∣so taken it by force from most cru••ll tyrants; (whereof, if Dolabella had bin Commander, he would haue encreased the forces of Antonius; not onely by his going; but with the fame, and expecta∣tion of his armie:) let me intreat you to take mine honour to your protecti∣on. And, if you conceiue, that the de∣serts of the souldiers towards the Com∣mon-wealth be of exceeding impor∣tance: for this, and the causes before alledged, be carefull to ayde, and fa∣uour them. And so procure, that no man may repent him of choosing ra∣ther to follow the Common-wealth; then hope of spoyle, and rapine. In like manner, take vnder your pro••ecti∣on, so far as in you lyes, the honour of Marcus, and Crispus, Imperator's. For, that retchlesse Bassus, would not assigne ouer vnto me his Legion. So that, if the souldiers in despight of him, had not sent me Ambassadors; he would haue kept Apamea beleaguered till by maine

force, it had beene taken. This I request of you, not onely for the Common-wealth's sake, which was euer most deare vnto you; but also in regard of our amitie; which I assure my selfe, you greatly estimate. And be secure, that, this Armie which I haue, is for the ser∣uice of the Senate, and euery honest man, but principally for your selfe. And it both loues, and esteemes you, hea∣ring daily of the affection which you beare it: but if it vnderstand that yo•• are carefull of their profit, it will also thinke it selfe bound to doe what it is able in your behalfe. After the writing hereof, I heard that Dolabella was come into Cilicia, with his forces. I will make towardes him, and endeuour to certifie you of the issue. I would for∣tune would graunt me such happinesse, as is answerable to my deserts towards the Common-wealth. Looke to your health, and loue me. From the Campe this seuenth of May. Farewell.

Caius Cassius to Cicero. Ep. 13.

I Hope you are in good health, as I was at the writing hereof. First, wee reioyce for the safetie; and victorie of

the Common-wealth; and then, in that your praises are euery day renew∣ed. For, you proouing a powerfull Consular, and greater then when you were Consull, you haue gone beyond your selfe. Whereat wee doe reioyce, but cannot sufficiently wonder. There is annexed to your vertue, something that is fatall, which we haue now ma∣ny times discerned by experience. For your gowne is more fortunate, then th'armes of other men. Which at this present also, hath wrung the Com∣monwealth, out of the hands of ene∣mies, and restored it. Now, therefore we shall liue in libertie. Now, we shall haue you, most eminent Cittizen; and my dearest, and (in the aduersities of the Common-wealth) approued friend, I say, we shall now haue you, a testimonie of our loue, both to your selfe, and to the Common-wealth, which is so neere vnto you. And those things, which you haue many times promised, both to conceale, while wee were in seruitude; and to disclose in my behalfe then, when they might be auailable: I now, desire not so much that you should vtter them: as that your selfe would but repute them what they are. For I more esteeme of your iudgement then any mans what∣soeuer: neither desire I that you should commend mee aboue my de∣serts.

And these our last exployts will not I hope, seeme dissonant from the rest; nor performed vnaduisedly, and without counsell: but conformable to those cogitations, whereof you are witnesse. Wherefore, you ought to adde no little to my esteeme, that my countrie may entertaine the best hope of me. You haue O Marcus Tullius, children, and neighbours beseeming you; and to you wor••hilie most deare. You must also in the Commonwealth, next af••er these, make a deare esteeme of those persons, who are emulous of your studies. Of which I desire there may be many; but yet I thinke not, that they are in ••o great a number, that I must be excluded; and that you haue no place left you, wherein you may embrace mee, and put mee vpon all things which concurre with your plea∣sure, and my desert. I haue peraduen∣ture laide open my minde vnto you: but what my wit is, cannot through long seruitude, be perfectly apprehen∣ded. Wee haue, from the Maritime coast's of Asia, and the Islands, taken all the shipping we could. The presse of such as were to rowe, though with great opposition of the Citties, was not long in compassing. We followed the Armada of D••labella; whereof Lu∣ciliu•• was Admirall. Who oftentimes bearing vs in hand, that hee would v∣nite

himselfe with vs; and oftentimes departing from vs; at length bare in with Corcyrus, and began to keepe him∣selfe within the port. Leauing it, wee went to Cyprus; because we thought it better to returne to the Campe, in that an other Naui•• came after; which Tullius Cymber had the yeare before, gathered together in Bithynia, which was commanded by Turulius the Quae∣stor. And from thence; wee thought good with all speed, to giue you notice of what had happened. The Tarsen∣ses most disloyall associats, and the La∣odiceni farre more foolish, haue volun∣tarily call'd vnto them Dolobella. By the aide of which Citties 〈…〉〈…〉 vp a kinde of armie, consisting of Grae∣cian souldiers. He hath encamped his men before the towne of Laodicea, hee hath broken downe a part of the wall, and hath vnited his souldiers with the townes-men. Our Cassius, with tenne Legions, and twenty Cohorts of the League, and with foure thousand horse lyes within twenty myles of Palthos; and thinkes he may vanquish without comming to fight. Because Dolabella is already enforced to buye his wheate at three Tetradrachm's. And, if he cause no prouision thereof to be conueyed in by the shipping of Laodicea; hee must of necessitie be shortly famished. And, that he shall not be able to pro∣cure

any such conueyance; by the great fleete of Cassius, which is vnder the gouernment of Sextilius Ru••us; and those three, which are vnder the conduct of my selfe, Turulius, and P••∣tichus; he will easilie be hindered. Be you therefore of good hope, and con¦fident; that as you haue there d••liue∣red the Common-wealth; so wee, ••or our parts, will therin vse all expedition. Farewell. From Cyprus, the 13. of Iune.

Lentulus, to his Cicero. Ep. 14.

HAuing met with our Brutus, and perceiuing that hee meant to make some stay, be••ore his comming into Asi••: I returned thither, to col∣lect the remainder of my labours; and to send money forthwith to Rome. In the meane time I vnderstood, that Do∣lobella's Nauie was in Lycia. With bet∣ter then an hundred great ships to em∣barque his armie. And that Dolobella had made these preparations, to the end, that if his hopes in Syria were frustrated, he might get aboord, and make for Italie; to ioyne with th'An∣tonij, and residue of Rebells. Whereof

I was so fearefull, that laying aside all other care, with a few small shipping I made towards him. And, if the Rhodi•• had not crossed me: I had per∣aduenture ended that businesse. How∣so••uer, the greatest number of those ships were taken, and the whole Nauie discomfited. Through feare of our arri∣uall, the Captaines & souldiers fled: and we tooke all the great merchant ships, of what burden soeuer. I am assured, that I haue preuented Dolabella's com∣ming with any Nauie into Italie, which I greatly feared; and I haue crost his vnion with his Companions, which might haue put you to some trouble. How greatly the Rhodij, despaired both of vs, and the Common-weal••h, by the publike letters which I haue sent, you may gather. And certainely I haue written lesse of their inraged dis∣position, then in effect I found it. But, that I haue written somewhat thereof, doe not wonder: Their follie is too palpable. Neither did any particular iniuries to my selfe, euer moue mee. Their bad practises against our safetie, their desire of following the factious; their standing out in defiance of euerie honest man; could not by me in reason be supported. And yet I esteeme them not all knaues. But the same parties, who neither receiued my father, when hee fled; nor Lucius L••••tulus; nor

Pompeius; nor other famous Captains; the verie same as it were ou•• of destinie, are either now themselues in Magistra∣cie; or else haue such therein, as are at their disposing. So that, persisting in doing euill, they shew the same arro∣gancie. And it is not onely profitable to our Common-wealth, but also ne∣cessarie, that such insolencie should bee chastised; which will grow greater, if by impunitie it be supported. As for our honor, I desire, you would haue a care thereof: and when you haue any occasion, either in the Senate, or in any other occurrent, vouchsafe to fauor me. Seeing Asia is deputed to the Consuls, and they permitted, that till they come themselues, they may place a Lieuete∣nant in the gouernment; entreat them, at my request rather to conferre this dignitie vpon my selfe then any other, and that they will constitute me Lieu∣tenant, till either of them comes vnto their gouernment. For they haue no occasion to hasten their comming, or to send hither any Armie. For Dolobel∣la is in Syria, and will, before these men come, be supprest by Cassius: as you diuinely foresaw, and did prognosti∣cate. For Dolabella, being beaten from Antiochia; and in the assault he gaue, ill entreated; distrusting euerie other Ci∣tie, is retir'd to L••odic••a, which is vpon the coast of Syria. There I hope short∣lie

he will be rowsed, and hauing no place of refuge left him: nor being a∣ble to withstand so great an Armie, as that of Cassius; I make no doubt but that ere this time, he is defeated, and subdued. Whereupon I thinke Pansa, and Hirtius, need not hasten, in their Consulship to come vnto their Pro∣uinces; but rather discharge their Con∣sulship at Rome•• wherefore if you re∣quest them, that I in the meane while, may haue the managing of Asia; I hope you may obtaine it. Besides, Pansa, and Hirtius promis'd mee by word of mouth, and afterwards wrote vnto me thereof, and Pansa affirmed as much to ou•• Verrius, that he would procure, that during his Consulship, I should haue no successor. Yet I protest that I affect not this prorogation out of any desire I haue vnto the Prouince. For vnto me, it hath euer beene very troublesome, dangerous, and expensiue. But because I would not haue suffered in vaine, so many discommodities, and be vrged to depart from hence, before I reape the last fruites of my laborious industrie. For, if I could send home those somms which I had gathered; I would require a successor: but to get in that which I disboursed to Cassius; and that which we lost by the death of Trebonius; and by Dolabella's crueltie; or by their per••idious proceedings, who failed

both me, and the Common-wealth, against the dutie of their alle∣geance: Which cannot bee done, without time. I am v••ged to desire, that you, as your custo••e is, would be a meanes, that I may haue this opportu∣nitie. I hope, I haue so borne my selfe towards the Common-wealth, that in reason I may expect, not the benefit o•• this Prouince, but as much as Cassius, and Brutus: not onely, in that I was an associate with them, in that same acti∣on, and daunger; but also because now, I am not wanting, in any valour, or in∣dustrie. For I was the first, that brake the lawes of Antonius; the first that drew Dolabella's Cauallerie, to take part with the Common-wealth; and that surrendred it to Cassius; the first to presse souldiers for generall safetie, against that most wicked conspiracie; and that onely vnited Syria, and the Armies that were there, with Cassius, and the Common-wealth. For, if I had not giuen so much treasure to Cassius; so many men; and with that expedition I did; he would neuer haue attempted to goe into Syria. Which if it had not beene, the Common-wealth should by this time haue had no lesse cause, to feare Dolabella, then Antonius. And all these things I did, notwithstanding, I was a familiar friend, and companion to Dolabella; and by neare affinitie

allied to the Antonij; and had also by their meanes, gotten my Prouince. But because I bare greater loue to my countrie, I was the first that rais'd war against mine owne familiars. And though I finde, that for these things, I haue not hitherto, had any great re∣compence: Yet am I not altogether out of hope: nor will I hold it trouble∣some resoluedly to perseuer in the de∣sire of libertie only: but in labour al∣so, and in dangers. N••uerthelesse if, for the benefit of the Senate, and of all good men, I be also put forward, by some prouocation of iust, and lawfull glorie; wee shall bee in the greater au∣thoritie with others, and consequent∣ly be able the more to assist the Com∣monwealth. When I was with Brutu••, I could not see your son, because he was then gon w^t the troups of horse to their assigned winter gua••ison•• But, th••t he is so disposed, I ••weare vnto you, I reioyce both for yours, and ••or his, but especially for mine owne sake. For I hold him in the est••eme of a Br••th••r, because he is your sonne, and worthie of you. Farewell. From P••••ga: the 29. of May.

Publius Lentulus sonne to Publius, Vice-quaestor, and Vice-praetor; to the Consulls, Praetors, Tribunes, Senate, people, and Communaltie of Rome. Epist. 15.

DOlabella hauing by wicked means, oppressed Asia, I went into Ma∣cedonia, a neighbour Prouince: and to the Guarisons of the Commonwealth, which Marcus Brutus a renowned per∣son, had vnder his gouernment: and I sought to bring to passe, that the pro∣uince of Asia, and the impositions, might, by the meanes of persons, which could easily per••orme it, bee re¦duced within your authoritie. Where∣of Dolabell••, being very fearefull: and after his sacking of the Prouince, fin∣gring the customes, but aboue all, most cruelly pillaging and selling all the Romaine cittizens, hee being so so∣dainely departed, that we could not in time come vp with our ••orc••s: it was not fit for me, to so••ourne there any longer; or to expect supplies of soul∣diers. And I both thought it good ou•• of hand to returne vnto my office, and to recouer the remainder of the ••axa∣tions, and to get in, that money which

I had collected: and besides this, pre∣sentlie to examine, wh••t summes had beene seazed on, and by whose negli∣gence: that I might absolutely in••forme you of ••he successe thereof. In the meane while, sayling amongst the Islands, which lay in my way to Asia, I being inform••d that D••lab••ll's Nau•••• was in Lycia, and that the Rhodij had di∣uers ships furnished, vnd••r saile, and in a readines: with that shipping, which partlie I brought with me, and in part was gathered by Patiscus ••he vice Quae∣stor, (a person very inward with mee, both for the famil••aritie we haue had tog••ther, and for the affection we both ioyntlie beare to ••he common-wealth,) I re••urned to Rhodes; being confident i•• your au••horitie, and the Senates de∣cree, by which you had proclaymed D••labella for an enemie: and building vpon the League, which Marcus Mar∣cellus, and Seruius Sulpitius being Con∣sulls, was renewed with the ••hodij; wherein they had taken oath, that they would esteeme those enemies, which by the Senate, and people of Rome were so reputed•• But we were much deceiued. For, they were so farre from furnishing vs with men, for the securitie of our Nauie: that euen at the entrie into th•• ••owne, at the Port, those habitati∣ons that were with••ut the Citie, deny∣ed our souldiers•• not onely sustenance,

but very water: and wee our selues, with one smal•• Barke, were scarcely en∣••ertained. Which indignitie, and dis∣paragement of Maiestie, not only to my place, but also to the Empire and people of Rome, I for this cause dige∣sted; in that by intercepted letters wee vnderstood, that Dolabella, being out of all hopes of Syria, and Aegypt, re∣solued (as necessarily must ••nsue) to embarque himselfe, with all his thee∣••••sh followers, and with all the money, and so to com•• ••or Italie And that, for this effect, the great Merchants ships also, of which, there was none, that were of a lesser burthen then two thou∣sand Amphorae, that were vnited in Lyci••, were layd for, by his Armada. ••oued (O conscript Fathers) wi••h the feare heere of; I the rather made choyce to support these iniuries: and though with our disgrace, first, to at∣tempt all other meanes. Wherefore, being admitt••d into the Citt••e, and Se∣nate, by their consent, I propounded the cause of the Commonwealth, with as great vehemencie, as I could: and set before them, all the danger, which would ensue, if that Rebell should with his associat's bee ••mbarqued. But I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Rhodij so peruerse, that they thought euery one more loyall then those th••t really were so. Neither did they beleeue, that there was such a

concord, a••d vnion of all degrees, couragiously to defend Libertie: and were con••ident, that the Senate, and euery honest man would as yet bee pa∣tient; and that it was not possible, that any man should dare to denounce Do∣labella ••or a rebell. Finally, whatsoe∣uer was ••alsely auer'd by these knaues, they held more true, then in e••fect it was: or then that, which wee could beate into them•• Out of the same per∣uersitie also, before our comming, and after Treb••nius was so vnworthily mur∣dred, and so many other wicked acti∣ons; two Embassies of theirs went to Dolabella; and certainely, without any presiden••, contrary to their lawes, yea, and though they were prohibited by their Magistrates. Whether they did these things for feare, as they affirme of certaine territories which they hold within the continen••, or out of a bad intention, or through the ouerswaying power of some few; which had also heeretofore vsed the same vil••anie to renowned men; and being at this pre∣sent in highest dignities, would not by any example, either on your part, or ours that were pr••sent, though easily they might, neither pr••uent our present perill, nor that which menaced all Ita∣lie, and our citie; if that Traytor to∣gether with his th••••uish associates, be∣ing ••xpelled out of Asia, and Syria, had

there arriued. Some also were ••uspi∣cious, that the said Magistrates, did but entertaine time, and delaie vs, while Dolabella's Fleet might bee aduer∣tised of our comming. Which suspi∣cion was the more confirmed, by some particulars which succeeded; especially, because Se••tus Marius; and Caius Titius, Dolab••lla's Legates departed suddainlie out of Lyci••, from the Nauie; and in a Fust fled away. Leauing there, all the great shippes: in preparation and gathering of which, they had spent no small time, and labour. Wherefore, we comming from Rh••des into Lycia with such shipping as we had; we took the great shippes and restord them to their owners, and free'd our selues from the great feare which possessed vs, that Dolabella with his fellow rebells would haue made for Italie. The Nauie which gat away, we pursued as farre as Syda, which is the vttermost lymit of my Prouince. There I vnderstood, that one part of Dolabella's shipping was fled; and another gone into Syria, and Cyprus. I knowing that Caius Cassius, a famous Captaine, and Cittizen, was in Syria with a great Fleet in readinesse; re••urned to my charge: & wil endeuour (O conscript Fathers) to vse for you, and for the Common wealth, all offi∣cious care and diligence: & to recouer those summes of money, with the

greatest possible expedition; and send them you, with all the accompts. When I haue runne ouer my Prouince, and haue notice, who haue beene faithfull to vs, and the Commonwealth; in preseruing the treasure by me layd vp, and who those wicked persons haue beene, that wilfully carried these pub∣like moneys to Dolabella; I will thereof aduertise you. Against whom, if you finde it fitting, rigorouslie to proceede according to their desert, affording me that reputation, with your authoritie; I shall the more easilie be able, both to recouer the remainder of the Customs, and to preserue it being recouered. In the meane while, that I may the better hold the customes, and defend the Prouince from insultat••o••s, I haue dr••wen together, a necessarie guard of men, which offered themselues, o•• their owne good will. When these le••ters were written, there came into Pamphi∣lia about thirtie souldiers, that fled into Syria, of those that Dolabella had enter∣tained in Asia. These men brought newes, that Dolabella was gone to Antiochi••, which is in Syria, bu•• that he was not there receiued; and striuing di∣uers times to enter thereinto by force, hee was euer repulsed with disaduan∣tage. So that loosing about an hundred men, and leauing there diuers sicke persons, he fled by night from Antio∣chia

towards Laodicea. And how in that might, all his Asiaticke souldiers left him: amongst which some eight hun∣dred returned to Antiochia, and yeelded vp themselues, to those, which held that Citie for Cassius: the others by mount Ama••us, came downe into Cilicia: of which number, they likwise said they were. But, that it was reported, that Cassius, with all his people was about foure daies iourney from Laodice••, when Dolabell•• went thither. For which cause, I assuredly hope that this most wretched rebell will pay for his disloy∣altie sooner then is expected. From Perga. The 2. of Iune.

Caius Trebonius to Cicero. Epist. 16.

I Arriued in Athens, the xxij of May, where to my infinite contentment I saw your sonne dedicated to the no∣blest studies; and in great ••steeme for his modestie. Wherein, what pleasure I tooke, you may vnderstand without

my telling you. For you know well, how much I value you: and how greatlie in respect of our ancient and and sincere loue, I reioyce at all your prosperities; much more at this so great an happines. Doe not suppose, my Cicero, tha•• I deliuer this to you, to flatter you. Your youth, and therefore ours, (for I haue nothing but what is yours,) hath aboue all others, wonne the hearts of eue••y man that lyes in Athens; and is more then any man studious of those ver∣tues, which yo•• especiallie affect, and are most excellent. So that, in what I can truelie congratulate with you, I doe it willingly; and no lesse with my selfe, then you: that wee finde him, whom wee must what so••uer hee were, loue of necessitie; to be of such condi∣dition that we may loue him wi••lingly. Discoursing with me, hee cast out a word, that he would see Asia; where∣unto he was no•• onely by me inuited, but entreated, that he would doe i••; e∣specially, while I had the gouernment thereof. And you may be assured, that I will vse him with that deare affection, that your selfe would. I will also take order, that Cra••ipp•••• may come with him: to the end you may not thinke, that in Asia he neglects those studies, whereunto you haue exhorted him. I see him well dispos'd, and farre entred

into a good way: neuerthelesse, I will not cease to encourage him therein, to the end, that day by day learning, and exercising himselfe, he may goe for∣ward. At the date of these, I knew not what was done about the Common wealth I heard certaine rumors, the which God graunt, may be false; that once we may enioy a quiet libertie: which hitherto I neuer could. Not∣withstanding, in my Nauigation, ha∣uing found a little vacancy, I haue com∣pounded a trifle, according to my man∣ner, to present you with. And I haue collected together certaine sayings, de∣liuered by you, to my great honour, which I haue here vnder written. Wherein, if I seeme vnto you in some words a little too free; excuse me, in that he, against whom I speake, is such an one, as deserues worse, then I haue spoken. Let me request you also to par∣don our choller, w^c is but iust, against such men and Cittizens. And then, why should Lucilius rather be permitted to take vpon him this libertie, then my selfe? Considering, that if the hatred he ba••e to them, of whom he spake il, were ••quall to mine; yet were not they, more worthy then this man, with so great a liberty of words, to be reproued. I looke you should pre∣sently introduce me, a speaker in your Dialogues, as you promised. And I am

certaine, that in w••iting any thing of the death of Caesar; you will afford me, in that action, and your owne loue, no little portion. Farewell: and let me re∣commend my mother, and all mine vnto you. From Athens; the 25. of May.

Cicero to Quintus Cornificius his Colleague. Ep. 17.

THe memoria••l you retaine of mee, is according as you signifie in your le••ters, beyond measure to me acceptable; and I entreat you to pre∣serue it; not that I any waies doubt the contrarie, but because it is the custome, to be thus ••ollicitous. There's newes out of Syria, of certaine tumults, which•• in that they a••e nearer to you, then vs, I am more so••rie for yours, then mine owne respects. Rome is in wonderfull quiet: but it were farre better, that it were busied in some beneficiall, and honoura••le ••rau••iles; which, I hope will be; because I ••e•• Caesar hath a desire th••reunto, Vnderstand, that in your absence, I e••d••e very boldly, because me thinkes I may, you being absent: and ••mong ma••y thi•••••• which perad∣uenture would no•• disl••k•• you, I h••ue

lately written of the perfect forme of speaking. Wherein, I thought many times, that you were somewhat discre∣pant from my opinion; after that man∣ner that a learned man vseth to dissent, from one, that is, vnlearned. I would haue you first, commend this Booke, for it owne desert; and then, though you should thinke it deserues nothing; yet to doe me a pleasure. I will giue it to your friends, to be written out, that they may send it you. For I suppose, though you approue not of the subiect, yet finding your selfe now without em∣ployments, you will take delight in e∣uery thing that comes from me. Where∣as you recommend vnto me your dig∣nitie, and reputation, in this you follow the custome of o••hers: but I assure you, that besides, the great accompt I make of your friendship, I doe so estimate your vertuous studies, and vnderstan∣ding; and haue so great hope, that you will a••ise to eminent degrees of honor; as I preferre none before you, and hold but few your equalls. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius his Col∣league. Epist. 18.

TO the last poynt of your last letters, I will fi••st make answere, because I haue somtimes obserued this custome in you that are great Orators•• you complaine that I write not vnto you: and I euer wrote, when I heard by your friends, that there was any opportuni∣tie. By your letters me thinkes I con∣ceiue, that you will doe nothing but deliberately; and that you will not re∣solue of any thing, before you vnder∣stand, what will become of I know not what Caecilius Bassus. The which I pre∣suppos'd out of your prudence; and now, your graue letters ratifie as much. And I entreat you as earnestly as I can, ••o write often to me: to the end I may vnderstand what you doe, and what is done, as also what you meane to vnder take. Though at your departure from hence, I was much grieued, to be de∣priued of your companie: yet I was comforted through hope, that you should goe into great quietnesse, and remoue your sel••e from affaires of mo∣ment, which were imminent. But the quite contrarie hath hapned; for, there you haue warre, & here we haue peace: but such peace, as if you were here, ma∣ny

things would disl••ke you: by which euen Caesar him••elfe is also disgusted. For the end of c••uill warre, is euer of this na••ure, that matters are not carryed according to the will of the Conque∣rour onely, but they also must be obey∣ed, by whose assistance the victory hath beene obtained. For my part, I am now so accustomed hereunto, as in Caesars sports I had the patience, to behold Ti••us Plancus, and to heare the Poems of Publiu••, and Laberius. I would haue you know, that I want nothing more, then to haue one by me, with whom I might learnedly, and familiarly laugh at these things. You shall be th•• man, if you come speedily: and this I suppose imports not onely me, but your selfe also. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 19.

I Most willingly read your letters, wh••rein I tooke great contentment, perceiuing that you had receiu'd mine. For I made no question, but you would desi••o••sly peruse them: I on••ly doub∣ted of their deliuerie. By yours, I vnder∣stood, how Caes••r committed to you the warre of Syria, and the gou••r••ment

thereof. I pray God, you may haue good and happie successe in that em∣ployment; as I hope you shall, being confid••nt in your wisedome, and in∣dustrie. But what you write vnto me, touching the suspition of a Par••••ian wa••re, hath much disturbed me. Con∣••idering your strength, by what I ga∣ther from your letters, and mine owne coniecture. Wherefore I desire at this pres••nt, that the Parthians may not stir, till those Legions are arriued, which must as I heare, be brought vnto you. And if you haue not power ••nough to fight, faile not to take the same course, w^c was once taken by Marcus Bib••lus: who shut himselfe within a well fortifi∣ed, & very plentifull Town, so long as the Parthians were with in the ••rouince. But you may better dispose of these things, accordin•• to the time, and to th'occasio•••• I shall euer be pensiue for you•• till I know wha•• h••th succeeded. I neuer hea••d of ••ny mess••••ger that went to you, bu•• I deliuered him le••ters for you. I r••quest you to doe ••••e like; and aboue all, to writ•• v••••o your friends in such a manner, that they may conceiue me to be yours. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius his Col∣league. Epist. 20.

YOur letters were very welcome to me, but that you disdained to lodg at the little Inne at Sinv••ssa. But know, that, that little village will take it ill; vnlesse in Cumanum, and Pomp••••anum you reforme the error you haue com∣mitted. Therefore doe as I bid you, and let me haue you to loue me; and by wri∣ting sometimes to me, inuite me to doe the like. For I can more easily answere, then prouoke. But if you be negligent, as you beginne; I will vrge you: least your lithe••n••sse, beget ignorance. More at more leysure. Th••se, I scribled in the Senate. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 21.

CAius Anitius my familiar acquain∣tance, a well quallified person, comes into Africa about his priua••e affaires, with a titular Embassie. I de∣sire you would assist him in euery thing

and procure, that he may dispatch his businesse, with all possible conuenien∣cie: and especially, which he much re∣gardes, that he may be honoured, and respected according to his dignitie. And I requ••st you that he may haue Lictors alo••ted him. Which in my Pro∣uince, I euer allowed to all Senators, without entreatie; hauing had frequent presidents therof by men of greatest ac∣count, vpon mine owne knowledg, and other mens relation. Therefore, my Cornificius, let this be done. And in all other occurren••s, as you loue me, haue a care of his honour, and occasions: for you cannot doe me a greater plea∣sure. Be carefull of your health. Fare∣well.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 22.

HEre, we haue warre, with Anto∣nius our swaggering Colleague, a man beyond all other, ••ost outragi∣ous: but not vpon ••quall conditions: For we, vse words, he armes. He speakes ill also of you to the people; but he shall not goe so away with it: for, he shall be made to know, whom he hath iniu∣ried. I suppose others haue written the

newes past vnto you. But expect from me what comes hereafter, which may easily be presaged. Euery thing bends to ruine. Good men haue no Head. And they who sl••w the Tyrant, are in remote Countries. P••nsa is well encli∣ned, and speakes couragiously. Our Hirtius is slacke in the recouery of him∣selfe. What will ensue I certainly know not: one hope remaines, that the peo∣ple of Rome will once be like their pre∣dec••ssors I will not surely be wanting vnto the Common-wealth, and I, wha••soeuer ha••pens, wherein I am in∣nocent, will w••th a constant mind sup∣port it: and aboue all I will defend your fame, and reputation. The xx. of Sep∣tember, in a fu••l S••nate, I passed a de∣cree, as well about other important matters, as also of this; that the Pro∣uinces should remaine to those that were in gouernment, and be assign••d ouer to none, but to such as sho••ld bee sent thither by the Senates o••der. It is true, that I p••opounded this cours••, for the respects of the Common-wealth; bu•• questionlesse, more fo•• the preser∣uation of your dignitie. Wh••refore I entreat you, out of our am••••i••, and ex∣hort you for the Common wealthes cause, t••at you will not suffer any man, to take vpon him any authority in your Prouince: and that you will euer make honour your obiect; before which,

nothing should be preferred. I speake to you freely, as our inward friendship requireth. Touching Sempronius, if you had carried your selfe according to my letters, you would haue purchased great esteeme with euery man. But this is past, neither is it of any great momē••. What I will now tell you, much more importeth. Be sure to retaine the Pro∣uince, vnder the power of the Com∣mon-wealth. I would haue written more copiously, but that your men were in hast: therefore excuse me to our Cherippus. Farewell.

Cicero to Co••••ificius. Epist. 23.

STraetorius gaue me ample informati∣on, both of the state of your Pro∣uince, and of the forme you obserue in gouerning it. Oh, what a number of intolerable things are cōmitted euery where! But, by ho•• much the mo••e e∣minent your place is, by so much the lesse, should you haue digested those matters which happened to you. For, though the indig••ities, which you sup∣port out of the greatnesse of your mind and vnderstanding, are not such, as you should take them deepely to heart; ••et

should you not omit, to reuenge them. B••t of these things another time. I know vndoubtedly, that you are infor∣med of the daily occurrents of the Ci∣tie: and if I did not imagine it, I would write thereof my sel••e vnto you: and I would also write of all the attempts of Caesar Octa••ianus; and how the Vulgar beleeues, that Antonius hath charg'd him wrongfully; that hee might, with violence, take the young mans treasure from him. But wise men, and of good disposition, hold the matter for truth, and allow thereof. What should I say more? There is great hope in him. 'Tis thought hee will enter into any enter∣prise, that may procure him praise and glory. But Antonius, our familiar friend, obserues himselfe to be so generally ha∣ted, as hauing ••urprized them in his house, who meant to kill him, he d••res not discouer them. The ix. of Octo∣ber hee went to Brundusium, to meet with the foure Legions, that return'd out of Macedonia: being perswad••d, that with money, hee could haue won them to his direction, and so conduct them to Rome, to bridle vs here, and hold vs in seruitude. This is, as it were, a modell of the Common-wealth; if it be any Cōmonwealth at all, where all matters are carried by Armes, and Sol∣diers. And I am much vexed, to think, that you could not for yeeres, relish the

Common-wealth, in a time, when it was entire, and out of danger: and yet in former times, there was some hope: but now, euen hope it selfe is taken a∣way. And what hope can there be? see∣ing Antonius durst tell the people, that Canutius sought to obtaine their fauor, who could not, with his safetie, be per∣mitted to remaine within the Citie. For mine owne part, I patiently endure (thankes to Philosophie) these, and all things else, which are incident to man. For, she doth not onely free mee from griefe, but also armes me, against all the assaults of Fortune. And I aduise you to doe the like, and to make no∣thing in the number of euills, wherein your selfe haue had no hand. In which point I will no further extend my selfe, because I wil not speake of those things w^c you know better then my selfe. Our Str••torius euer gaue me content; but now, I am vrged to loue him, more then hitherto; perceiuing that in your oc∣casions, no man could haue vsed grea∣ter diligence, or haue beene more cir∣cumspect. Haue a care of your health: for heerein you shall do me an vnspeak∣able pleasure.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 24.

IN euery occasion, which presents it selfe, of honouring or assisting you, I discharge those offices, I owe vnto you: as you shall vnderstand by your friends letters; to which I referre my selfe But yet I cannot for••eare to exho••t you, to be verie carefull of the Com∣monwealth. This is an action, wor∣thy of y••ur courage, of your vnderstan∣ding, a••d of ••hat hope, which you ough•• to nourish, of augmenting your ow••e dignities Bu•• to this purpose, another time, I will discourse with you more at l••rge; for at th•• writing of this, there was no••hing certaine. The Am∣bassadou••s we••e not yet returned, which the Senate sent, not to entreat Antonius for peace, but to put him in minde of war, if hee yeelded not to the Ambassa¦dours wo••ds. I neuerthel••sse, so soone as I had anie opportunitie, according to my wo••ted custo••e, defended the Common-wealth, and off••••ed my self••, as head vnto th•• S••nate, and peo∣ple of Rome. And after I embraced the cause, I euer defended safetie, and common libertie. But my desire is, you should also vnderstand this by other mens letters. I recommend vnto you,

Titus Pinarius, my speciall friend, and I recommend him with all efficacie. I loue him exceedingly, both because he is ado••ned with all vertues, and in that he is delighted in our studies. He is A∣gent for our Dionysius, who by you is much, but by my selfe, infinitely belo∣ued. And therefore, ••hough I know it superfluous; yet I commend his affaires vnto you, entrea••ing you to haue such a care thereof, as by the letters of Pina∣riu••, who will b••e verie gratefu••l, wee may euidently vnde••stand, that you haue beene fauourable, both to him, and Dionysius. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 25.

ON the feasts of Ba••••••us, I receiued your l••tters, whi•••• Cornificius told mee hee deliuered, two and twenty daies af••er the receipt. Ther•• was no Senate that day, ••or the day fol¦lowing. The day of M••n••rua, in full Senate I handled your cause: and it seem'd, Min••rua herselfe, that day fa∣uour'd me. For the Senat•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••he sel••e same day•• that I pl••aded for you, ordai∣ned, that the Statue of Minerua, which I had set vp in the Capitoll, with this in∣scription,

Custos vrbis, and was by a gust of winde blowne downe; should be againe erected. Pansa recited your letters. The Senate approued highly of the matter, with much alacritie, to the greefe of Minotaurus, that is of Cla∣uisius, and Ta••rus, and an honourable decree was passed in your fauor. There were some, which demanded, that some disgrace might h••ue beene im∣pos'd vpon them. But Pansa would needs vse all cl••mencie. I, my Cornifi∣cius, the first day, that euer I conceiued hope of libertie, the xx. of December, while others lingered, layd the founda∣tions of the Common-wealth. That verie day I labour'd much, & wrought effectually in the promotion of your dignitie. For the Senate granted mee, that the gouernment of the Prouinces s••ould not be altered: and ye•• I ceased not afterwards, to beat downe, and im∣pugne him, that with great scorne to the Common-wealth, and iniurie to you held, being absent, this Prouince. So that, exclaiming, and crying out vp∣on him daily, I procur'd, that, whether he would, or no, he betooke ••im to the Citie, and was not onely thrust out of the hope, but the pr••sent securitie, and possession of his Prouince. I am verie glad, that for matters, which I d••ser∣uedly, and most iustly spoke against him, you haue by your sufficiencie pre∣serued

your owne honor, and that you haue beene dignified with the greatest honours of the Prouince. Whereas you purge yourselfe towards me, con∣cerning Sempronius, I except of the ex∣cuse you make. For, that was a kinde of season, when it was requisite to liue after another mans humour. Now you must vnderstand, th••t I, who was wont to counsell, and fauour you, being an∣grie with the times, despairing of li∣bertie, went presently into Greece: but the Northerne windes, like good Citi∣zens, being displeas'd, that I should a∣bandon my Countrey, would not fol∣low me; and those of the South, blow∣ing forcibly a contrarie course, brought me backe to Rhegium; that is, amongst your kindred: and from thence being assisted with wind, and oares, in great hast I came into my Countrey. Where, the day following, in the Senate, wheras others were in great seruitude, I onely was free; and spake in such a mann••r a∣gainst An••onius, as hee was not able to endure: but wi••h that drunken furie of his, oppos'd himselfe against me. And se••king to shed bloud, he did not onely desire, th••t some prouocation wo••ld proceed frō me; but also layd, to y^• end, snares. This man belching, as it were, and vomiting, was by me so repelled, that he lay open to the blowes of C••∣sar Octauianus. ••or, the generous young

man, first to guard himselfe, and then for the interest of the Common-wealth, hath gotten forces togethe••. Which if he had not done, the returne of Antonius from B••u••dusium, would haue beene a plague to our Countrey. I suppose you know, what afterwards ensued. But to returne, where I left, I accept of your excuse for Sempronius. Then, in so great an hurly-burly, you could not resolue of anie thing. Now, the time permi••s, that we may liue after any other fashion, and that other cust••m••s may bee embraced, as Terentius speaketh. Wherefore, my Quintus, enter with vs into the same ship, and come vp to the sterne. There's now but one ship, fraught with all good men, which I endeuour ••o keepe from swaruing; God grant, with a prosperous course; bu•• what wind••s so••uer blow, my skill shall neuer be wanting: And what can ver∣••ue further effect? As for your occasi∣ons, bee of a noble and haughty cou∣rage: and be resolu'd, that all your ho∣nour must stand with the safetie of the Common-wealth. I will effectually wherein I can, fauour Pub••ius Luc••••••us. And i•• was not needfull y••u should ••e∣commend him: he being most dea••e vn∣to me. We haue too much out of season lost Hir••us, and Pansa, our Colleagues, most b••neficiall members to the Com∣monwealth, in their Consulships. For,

though in respect of that Rebell Ant••∣nius, the Common-wealth is secure; yet is she not absolu••ely rid of molestation•• I will defend her, according to my cu∣stome, if no accident hinder m••e: Though at this instant I am v••ry w••ary. But no defatigation shall haue power ••o far ou••r me, as to make me faile in offi∣ces, or fidelitie. And to this purpose, let these suffice•• I will write no¦thing to you of my selfe; I leaue that for you to vnderstand from othe••s. Wee had certaine informations of you, which I would they were true. Of Cneius Minutius, whom in certa••n•• let∣ters you ex••old to the heauens, s••me h••rd reports are dispersed; of which, as also of the proceedings in these parts, I desire to heare from you the certainty. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 26.

QVintus Turius, who hath negotia∣ted in Africa, an honest man, and of a good familie, made his heires, Cneius Saturninus, Sextus Aufidius, Cneius Ann••ius, Quintus C••nsidius Gallus, Lucius Seruilius Posthumus, & Caiu•• Rubellinus, men like vnto himselfe. By their speech

I conceiued, that I was more bound to thanke you, for that you had done for them; then to commend them vnto you. For they so highlie extoll your generous disposition, and the courtesie, which I saw you had afforded them, that I dare not further en••reat you. Neuerthelesse I will presume, knowing of what power my recomendation is with you. And therefore, I request you, that the same fauour you shewed him wi••hout my letters, you will for their respect, afford it him more plentifully. And of my recommendation the sub∣stance is this; that you will not per∣mit, that Erotes Furius, Freeman to Quintus Furius, vsurpe the inheritance of Furius, as hithe••to he hath done. And, that for my sake, you wil make spe∣ciall esteeme of them in all o••her oc∣currents. Wherein, you will receiue great contentme••t, both for their emi∣nencie, and in respect of their obser∣uance towards you. And herein I en∣treat you as earnestly as I am able. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 27.

S••xtus Aufidius obserues me after such a sort, as I am not more honored

by any of my kindred. And so magni∣ficent hee is, that in this point no Ro∣mane Knight is his Superiour. Then is he of such a temperate, and milde beha∣uiour, that in him, singular grauity, con∣curs with affabilitie. I commend vnto you his businesses in Africa, with such sinceri••ie, and so heartily, as they possi∣bly can bee recommended. You shall highly fauour mee, in doing your ende∣uour, to let him vnderstand, that my letters were of great authoritie with you. And this is my maine request, deare Cornificius. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 28.

I Am also of your opinion, that they, who as you write, threatned Lilybaeum, deserued there to be punished. But you are affraid, as you say, to seeme too for∣ward in your chastizements: and ••her∣fore you were affrayd, ••o app••are a grau••, and couragious Citizen: or such an one, as is worthy to bee your selfe. I like it well, that you renew our league in the preseruation of the Common-wealth, which you enterteined with me, as an inheritance from your father. Which societie, my Cornificius, shall al∣wayes

continue amongst vs: I am also well pleased, that you are of opinion, that you need not thanke me in your owne behalfe. For betwixt vs, this of∣fice is sup••rfluous. The Senate should often be sollici••ed about your dignitie, but that in absence of the Consulls, they are neuer assembled, except vpon some new occurrents. And therefore by ••he Senate ther's nothing to be done at this present, either about those six hund••ed Crownes, or about those twēty one thousand. And therfore I am of opinion, that you must impose taxa∣tions, and take vp at interest. Concer∣ning the state of the common-wealth, I suppose you are aduertised by their let••ers, who vsually write vnto you, of the occurren••s of Rome. I am in good hope. And I am not wanting to my countrie, with my councell, care, or endeuour. To the enemies of the Common-wealth, I shew my selfe a capitall enemie. Matters appeare to me, to be in good state; and would be farre better, if some men were not culpable. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Ep. 29.

I Thinke there is not a man amongst the people of Rome, (much lesse you who knowes all my occasions,) tha•• conceiues not, what familiaritie I retain with Lucius Lamia: For it was manife∣sted to all Rome, at the same time, when by Aulus Gabinius the Consull he was confined, because valiantly, and freely he had defended my safetie; Neither did our loue grow onely from this; but from an affection which was great, and of long continuance. Whereupon hee refused not to vndergoe any daunger vpon mine occasion. To which offices, or rather deserts, so pleasing a cōuersa∣tion is to be added, that there is no man with whom I ought to be more delighted. Now the reason of so speci∣all loue being made manifest vnto you; I imagine you looke not with what words I recommend him. I would haue you know thus much onely, that if you defend Lamia's occasions, his agents, his Free-men, and his very slaues, wherein it shall bee requisite; it shall more satisfie me, then if you had vouch∣safed me this courtesie, in defence of mine own proper substance, and inter∣est's. And I m••ke no doubt, but with∣out my recommendation, your iudge∣ment

of men is such, that for Lamia's owne sake, you will doe any thing very willingly. Although 'twas said, that you were perswaded, that he was present, at the recording of a decree of the Se∣nate, made in preiudice of your honor: whereas he was neuer present at the passing of any decree, vnder those Consulls. And besides this, all the de∣crees that then came from the Senate were false. Except you also, bele••ue, that my selfe was p••esent at that decree of Sempronius: when at the same instant I was not in Rome; as I wrote vnto you, when the matter was fresh in memorie. But of this, hitherto. I request you, my Cornificius, with the greatest efficacie I am able, that you will verily beleeue, that all Lamia••s negotiations are mine owne: and take order that he may per∣ceiue, that this my recommendation hath beene very vsefull to him. You cannot doe me a greater fauour. Bee carefull of your health. Farewell.

Cicero to Cornificius. Epist. 30.

DOe I then write to you for none, but such as are contentious? And though this be true, yet you cannot say, but I write often to you. For you haue

vs'd the matter so, that no man thinkes he can obtaine your fauour without my letters. But which of your men euer told me, that he came from thence as a messenger, by whom I haue not written backe againe? Or else, being denied to talke with you face to face, what greater recreation doe I finde, then either in writing to you, or reading your letters? I am rather greeu'd, that I am hindred by so many employments, that I haue no conueniencie to write vnto you, as often as I would. For then I would in∣vite you not with Epistles, but with whole volumes: with which in all rea∣son you s••ould prouoke me. For though you are employed; neuerthel••sse, you haue more leisure then I. If you haue no time to spare, be not so shame∣lesse, and troublesome in importuning me, to write often to you; considering that you write so seldome to me. For if heretofore I haue beene encumbred with many occupations, (for I was bu∣sied in defending the Common-wealth with all care;) much more am •• at this present. For euen as they are more grieuously sicke, who seeming to be cu••'d of a maladie, are relapsed: so doe we feele farre greater disturbance, be∣ing enforced to warre anew, when we thought the warre was almost fini∣shed. But thus much may suffice for these things. You, my Cornificius,

labour to perswade your selfe, that I am not of so weake an affection, not to say inhumaine; as that I can be out-gone by you, either in loue, or courtesie. In truth I no wayes doubted of your loue; and yet C••erippus hath made it me much more manifest. Oh what a man is this! I alwayes tooke him to be fit for my conuersation; but now I apprehend him to be delightsome. As I liue, he hath not onely reuealed your mind vn∣to me, with your owne words, but with your gesture also. So as, doe not feare, that I am offended with you, be∣cause you wrote vnto me in the selfe same forme, as you wrote vnto others. True it is, I was desirous you should write vnto me in another fashion then you wrote to others: but this I did, rather excited by loue, then choller. Touching the charge, you say you are, and haue bin at, in respect of the warre; verily, I cannot ease you. For besides that the Senate by the death of the Consulls, remaines, as it were, without a guide; and there is no way to raise any prou••sion; you would not beleeue into what distr••sse of moneyes the publicke treasure is brought; which is, on all sides exhausted, to discharge the payes of ••he best deseruing souldiers, which in my opinion can neuer be wholly dis∣charged, without some new imposi••i∣ons. Of Accius Dionysius, I thinke there

is no newes, in that Siratorius told me nothing of him. For Publius Lucceius, I graunt not, that you should better affect, then my selfe: for, he is my bo∣some friend: but vrging the Tole-ma∣sters, that they should prolong his time; they made mee apparantly conc••iue, that they could not doe it, by the pro∣testation, and oath, that they had ta∣ken. Wherefore I would aduise Lucc••ius to come home. Though, if he haue fol∣lowed the aduise of my letters, by that time you read these, he should be at Rome. Of other things, especially of money, you not knowing of Pa••sa's death, haue written, what you suppos'd you might haue obtain'd by my means. Wherein you should not haue fail'd, if he had liued; for, he loued you: but be∣ing dead, I see no meanes how to giue you contentment. About Venuleius, Latinus, and Hora••ius, in my iudgment you haue done exceeding well. But yet this likes me not ouer-well, that you write, you haue dismissed the Lictors of your owne Legates, to the end that they might haue lesse cause to com∣plaine. For your Legates, being men that deserue honour: you should not value them with base fellowes. And I am of opinion, that not by any autho∣ritie of the Senates decree, but by maine violence, you haue enforced

their departure. This in briefe, is an answere, to the two letters I receiued from you, of one tenour. I haue no∣thing else to deliuer vnto you, but that your honour shall be as deare vnto me, as mine owne. Farewell.