Centuria epistolarum Anglo-Latinarum ex tritissimis classicis authoribus, viz. Cicerone, Plinio & Textore, selectarum : quibus imitandis ludi-discipuli stylum epistolis familiarem facilius assequantur / a Carolo Hoolo ... = A century of epistles, English and Latine : selected out of the most used school-authors, viz. Tullie, Plinie and Textor ... / by Charles Hool ...

Fifty seven of Tullie's Epistles, which John Sturmius hath collected in his First Book.

1. Mark Tullie Cicero to Terentia sendeth many greetings.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. We look for your Letter-carriers every day; who if they come, we shall perhaps be certified what we are to do, and shall certifie you forthwith.

3. Be diligently carefull of your health.

4. Farewell. The first of September.

2. Mark Tullie Cicero to Terentia, sendeth greeting.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. Do your endeavour that you may recover your strength; Provide what shall be necessary, and help me (with it) as time and occasion requireth, and send Letters to me as often as may be, concerning all occurrences. Farewell.

3. M. T. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. I would have you be very charie of your health.

3. For it is both wrtiten to me, and told me, that you fell in∣to a feaver on a suddain.

4. In that you quickly let me know of Caesar's Letter, you did me a pleasure.

5. Likewise hereafter, be sure to let me know, if there be any need, or if there be any news.

6. Have a care of your health. Farewell.

7. Dated, June 11.

4. M. T. Cicero, to Terentia &c.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. We have no certainty as yet, either concerning Cae∣sar's comming, or concerning the Letter which Philotimus is said to have.

3. If there be any thing certain, I will acquaint you forthwith.

4. See that you have a care of your health.

5. Farewell. August 11.

5. M. T. Cicero, to Terentia &c.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. I have received now at last a very kind Letter from Caesar, and it is reported, that he will come sooner than is imagined.

3. Whom whether I should go to meet, or tarry for him here, when I shall have resolved, I will let you know.

4. I would have you dispatch the Letter-posts back again with all speed.

5. Look diligently to your health.

6. Farewell. August 12.

6. M. T. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. IF I had any thing to write to you, I would do it, both more largely, and more often.

2. You see how matters now stand.

3. And you may know by Lepta and Trebatius, how I am af∣fect••d.

4 See you have a care of your own▪ and Tullia's health. Farewell.

7. M. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I am in good health.

2. I was resolved, as I writ to you heretofore, to send Cicero to meet Caesar; but I altered my purpose, because I heard nothing of his comming.

3. As for other matters, though there was no news, yet you may know by Sicca what I desire, and what I think to be needfull at this time.

4. I keep Tullia yet with me.

5. Have a diligent care of your health.

6. Fa••ewell. The twentieth of June.

8. M. T. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. THe sicknesse of our Tullia doth much trouble me, amid my very great sorrows; concerning whom, there is no cause why I should write more unto you, for I am sure you have as great a care of her as I have.

2. Whereas you desire I should come nearer ha••d▪ I see it is fit∣ting I should do so; and I had done so already, but many things have hindred me, which are not as yet dispatched.

3. But I expect a Letter from Pomponius, which I pray you take care it may be conveyed to me with all speed.

4. Endeavour to keep your health.

9. M. T. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. FOrasmuch as you rejoyce that we are come safe into Italy, I wish you may alway rejoyce.

2. But I fear, lest, through the grief of a troubled mind, and great wrongs done us, we have taken such a course, as we cannot well dispatch.

3. Wherefore, aid us what you can.

4. But what you are able to do, I do not conceive.

5. There is no cause for you to undertake a journey at this season; the way is both long and dangerous.

6. Besides, I do not see what good you can do me if you do come.

7. Farewell, Dated the fourth of November at Brundusium.

10. M. T. Cicero to Terentia, &c.

1. IF you be in good health, it is well; I a•• in good health.

2. Our Tullia came to me the twelfth of June, in respect of whose very great vertue, and singular humanity, I am also the more grieved, that it should be long of my negligence, that she is in a far other-gates condition, than her piety and worth did deserve.

3. I was in mind to send Cicero to Caesar, and Cneius Salu∣stius with him.

4. If he shall make a journey, I will give you notice.

5. Look diligently to your health.

6. Farewell. June 15.

11. M. T. C. to Tyro, &c.

1. WE have been held now seven days at Corcyra; and my brother Q••intus and his son at Buthrotum.

2 We were very solicitous about your health; nor did we wonder that we received no Letters from you; for men sail from thence where you are with those winds, which if they had served, we would not have waited at Co••cyra.

3. Look therefore to your self, and get strength, and when conveniently, both for your health, and the season of the year, you can sail, come to us that love you very well.

4. No man loveth us, but he liketh you.

5. You shall come welcome to all, and looked-for.

6. My Tyro, have an especiall care of your health.

7. Farewell. The 18th. of Octob. From Corcyra.

12. M. T. Cicero to Tyro, &c.

I neither can, nor have I any mind to write with what passion I am troubled: I onely write, that it will be very great content both to you and me, if I may see you recovered as soon as may be.

2. We came, the third day (after we departed) from you, to Alyzia.

3. That place is some fourteen miles on this side Leucas.

4. I thought I should find either you, or your Letter by Mario, at Leucas.

5. As you love me, or know that I love you, so look to your health.

6. From Alyzia, Nov. 5.

13. Cicero the son to Tyro, &c.

1. ALthough you have used a just and fit excuse of the forbearance of your Letters, yet I entreat that you would not often do it.

2. For though I be certified by reports and messengers con∣cerning the Common-wealth; and my father writes continually to me concerning his good-will towards me; yet a Letter written from you to me upon any the least occasion, hath always been very welcome.

3. Wherefore seeing I desire your Letters above all things, do not deal so, as to satisfie for the omission of your duty in writing rather by an excuse than by continuall sending of Letters. Farewell.

14. M. T. Cicero to Servius Sulpitius, &c.

1. HAgesaretus Larissaeus having received great favours from me in my Consulship, hath been mindfull and thankfull, and hath ever since honoured me with all respect.

2. I heartily commend him to you, as both one that hath entertained me and my familiar friend, and a thankfull per∣son, and a good man, and a chief man of his City, and most worthy of your acquaintance.

3. You will do me an especiall favour, if you endeavour that he may conceive, that this my recommendation hath had great power with you. Farewell.

15. M. T. C. to Trebatius, &c.

1. I Cutt in pieces your harmlesse Letter which I received of Lucius Aruntius; for it had nothing in it which might not well be read in an open Assembly.

2. But both Aruntius said, that you had given charge so, and you had writ to that purpose underneath.

3. But let that passe, I wonder that you writ nothing to me since, especially there being so much news stirring. Farewell.

16. M. T. Cicero, to Quintus Valerius the son of Quintus Orca, &c.

1. PUblius Cornelius, who delivered you this Letter, is re∣comme••ded to me by Publius Cuspius; for whose sake, you may indeed easily gather from me, how much I desire and am bound (to give satisfaction.)

2. I ear••••si•••• request you, that Cuspius may give me very great thanks, out of hand, and as often as can be possible. Farewell.

17. M. T. C. to Caius Memmius, &c.

1. I Would have you so entertain Aulus Fusius, one of my inti∣mate friends, very observant and affectionate towards me, and a learned man, and full of courtesie, and very worthy of your friendship; as you promised me when we were to∣gether.

2. It will be as pleasing to me, as any thing in the world can be.

3. Besides, you shall engage him to you for ever, to be your most especiall servant, and most especially observant of you. Farewell.

18. M. T. Cicero, to Cornificius, &c.

1. SExtus Aufidius both comes near to my own kindred, in the respect which he beareth towards me; and he comes behind no Roman Gentleman in gallantry.

2. And he is of such temperate and moderate behavi∣our, that singular gravitie (seems to) be coupled with courteousnesse.

3. Whose businesses, which are in Asia, I so recommend to you, that I cannot recommend them with more earnestnesse, or more heartily.

You shall do me a great favour, if you do your endea•• that he may conceive this Letter of mi•••• hath prevaile•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 much with you.

5. And this, my Cornificius, I most earnestly request of you. Farewell.

19. Cicero to Basilius, &c.

1. I Congratulate with you, I rejoyce with my self; I love you, I protect your affairs.

2. I desire to be beloved by you, and to be certified what you do, and what is done in those parts.

20. Decimus Brutus Imperator, to M. T. Cicero.

IF I made any doubt of your good-will towards me, I would entreat you more at large, that you would defend me in my honor; but doubtlesse it is so as I perswaded my self, that you are carefull of me.

2 I went on to them beyond the Alps with an Army, not so much catching at the name of Imperator, as desiring to satisfie my souldiers, and to make them firm to defend our cause; which me-thinks I have obtained, for they have had triall of my liberality and affection.

3. I have encountred with the most warlick people of all, I have taken many Castles, I have dismantled many.

4. I sent a Letter to the Senate for a good reason.

5. Aid me with your opinion, which if you shall do, you shall almost-wholly do service to the Common-wealth. Farewell.

21. M. T. Cicero, to Servius Sulpitius, &c.

1. I Am very well acquainted with Asclapo, a Physician of Patrae; and both his Conversation was delightfull to me, and also his Art, which I have had triall of in my friends sick∣nesse, wherein he gave me content, both for his judgment, and likewise for his fidelity and his good-will.

2. I therefore recommend him to you, and request you, that you would endeavour, that he may conceive, that I have written very diligently concerning him, and that my commendations hath been a great furtherance to him.

3. It will be a very great favour to me. Farewell.

22. M. T. Cicero to Appius, &c.

1. I Suppose you are informed touching my care for your wel∣fare and safe••y, by the Letters of your friends, whom I am sure I have abundantly satisfied; neither will I come be∣hind them, though they bear you singular good-will, that they should wish your welfare more than I.

2. They must needs yield to me in this, that I am able to do you more good at this time than they; which certain∣ly I have not failed to pe••form, nor will I fail; and I have al∣ready do 〈…〉〈…〉 an important matter, and have laid the foun∣dations of your safety.

3. See that you be of a good and stout spirit, and be confident I will not fail you in any thing.

4. The sixth of July. Farewell.

22. M. T. Cicero to M••••ius, S. P. D.

1. THe 24th of June I came into Cumanum, with your Libo, or o••rs rather; I th•• to go forthwith to Pompeianum; but I will let you know before.

2. I desire, bo••h ••hat you may always enjoy your health, and surely, while we are here.

4. Wherefore if you be resolved to apply any thing to the Gout, see you put it off till another day.

5. Be carefull th••n of yo••r h••••lth, and look for me with∣in this two or three daies. Farewell.

24. Cic••••o to Pl•• I••pe••ator, Con••ul elect &.

1. O The gratefull report two d••ys 〈…〉〈…〉 V••ctory, con∣cerning thy succour, and 〈…〉〈…〉 th•• forces, and also the enemies routed! All 〈…〉〈…〉.

2. Fo••, the most noted Commanders 〈…〉〈…〉 ••rs are said to have fled from the Battl•• of Matina.

3. And it is ••o less•• pleasing to destroy the remainder, than to discomfit the first.

4 I indeed expected your Letter ere this, ••n•• that with many others.

5. And I hoped that Lepidus being admonished by the Times, would give content to you and the Common-wealth.

6. Endeavour therefore, my Plancus, that no spark of that mischievous war may be left.

7. Which if it be do••, you shall both do an extraordinary great benefit to the Common wealth, and gain everla∣sting renown to your self.

8 The thirteenth of May. Farewell.

25. M. T. Cicero to Papirius Praetus, &c.

1. YEsterday I came to Cumanum, to morrow perhaps I will come to you.

2. But when I shall know the certainty, I will acquaint you a little before.

3. Although Marcus Ceparius, when he met me in the Poul∣try-wood, and I asked him how you did, said, That you kept your bed, because that you were troubled with the Gout. I was truly sorry at it, as I might well: Yet I resolved to come to you, that I might both see you, and give you a visit, and likewise sap with you.

4. For I do not think you have a Cook with the gout in his fingers.

5. Therefore expect a guest that is both a man that is no great eater, and one that cannot abide costly suppers. Farewell.

26. M. Cicero to Cneius Plancius, &c.

1. I Received a very short Letter of yours, whereby I could not understand that which I desired to know; but I un∣derstood that which I made no doubt of.

2 For I did not understand how gallantly you bare the common miseries; but I plainly perceived how much you loved me: but this I knew; if I had known the other, I should have framed my Letter to it.

3. Yet for all that, although I have writ to you before, what I thought fitting to be written, yet I thought good to admonish you in short at this time, that you would not think your self to be in any peculiar danger; we are all in a great, but yet in a common dysaster.

4▪ Wherefore you ought not to desire a private fortune, or the best, or refuse that which is common.

5. Let us therefore be of that mind one towards ano∣ther, which we ever were.

6. Which I can hope for on your behalf, and can warrant on my part.

27. Cicero to Dolabella, &c.

1. I Congratulate our Baiae, seeing, as you write, they are be∣come wholsome on a suddain: unlesse perhaps they are enamour'd of you, and flatter you, and forget themselves, as long as you are there.

2. Which if it be so, I do not wonder that even the air and the earth forgoe their naturall disposition, if it be for your commodity.

3. I had the short Oration in the defence of Deiotarus, which you desired, by m••; which I did not think.

4. I have therefore sent it to you, which I would have you look upon, as a mean subject, and uncapable of ornament, and not much worth the writing. But I would send my old hoste and friend a small gift, as it were a piece of Linsey∣wolsey, of a course thread, such as his Presents use to be.

5. I would have you to be wise and valiant, that your mo∣deration and gravity may bring dishonour upon others that offer you wrong. Farewell.

28. M. T. Cicero to Caelius Imperator, an head-officer of State, &c.

1. THere is great familiarity betwixt me and Marcus Fabi∣us, a very good man and a great schollar; and I love him exceedingly, both for his great wit, and extraordinary learning, and for his singular modesty.

2. I would have you undertake his businesse so, as if it were my own matter.

3. I know yee are great Counsellors.

4 He must kill a man, that will be your Client; but I admit of no excuse about this man.

5 You shall say aside all other businesse, if you love me, when Fabius shall desire to use your help.

6 I earnestly expect and desire to know how things go at Rome, and above the rest I would understand how you dispose of your self.

7. For now no news hath been brought us of a long time, by reason of the hardnesse of the winter. Farewell.

29. Cicero to Trebatius, &c.

1. YO•• plaid upon me yesternight amongst our cups, because I said it was a doubtfull case, Whether an heir m••ght lawfully accuse one of theft, which theft had been com∣mitted b••fore.

2. Therefore although I returned home full of drink, and late at night:: yet, I noted the Chapter where this Case is, and have sent it to you written out, that you may know that Sextus Aelius, Ma••••••s Manlius, and Marcus Brutus are of that opinion, of which you said no body was.

3. Yet I agree to Scaevola and Testa's opinion. Fare∣well.

30. M. T. Cicero to Decimus Brutus Imperator, &c.

1. ALthough your Letters gave me very great content∣ment, yet it pleased me more, that in the throng of businesse, you commanded Plancus your collegue, that he should excuse you to me by his Letter, which he hath performed diligent∣ly; and there is nothing liketh me better, than your cour∣tesie and diligence.

2. Your union with your Collegue, and your concord which was intimated by both your Letters, was most acceptable to the Senate and people of Rome.

3. For the rest, go on, my Brutus; and now do not strive with others, but with your self.

4. I must write no more, especially to you, whom I think to imitate in brevity.

5. I earnestly expect your Letters, and indeed such, as I heartily wish for. Farewell.

31. M. Cicero to Titus Furfanus Praetor, &c.

1. THere was ever so great familiarity and acquaintance be∣twixt me and Aulus Cecinna, that none could possibly be greater: for I was both well acquainted with his father, a wor∣thy man, and a brave gentleman; and I so loved him ever from a child, (because he gave me great hope of his singular honesty and eloquence, and lived very familiarly with me, not onely in all friendly offices, but also in like studies) that I liked to live with no man more than with him.

2. It is to no purpose for me to write more: You see how needfull it is for me, to preserve his welfare and fortunes, by all the means I am able.

3. It remains, that, forasmuch as I understand many ways, what you think of the condition of good men, and the calamities of the Common-wealth, I require nothing of you, but that such an addition may be made to that good-will, which of your own accord you bare to Cecinna, by my commendation, according as I conceive you respect me.

4 You cannot do me a greater pleasure than this. Farewell.

32. M. Cicero to Cornificius his Collegue, &c.

1. YOur Letters pleased me well, but that you disdained the little inne at Sinuessa; which contempt the poor little village will take very unkindly, except you make amends for all in Cumanum and Pompeianum.

2. Therefore you shall do so, and let me have your love, and egge me on by some Letter.

3. For I can more easily answer, than provoke another.

4. But if you shall be negligent, as you are, I will urge you, lest your lithernesse breed sloth.

5. I will write more when I have more leisure.

6. I scribled these, when I was in the Senate. Farewel.

33. M. T. Cicero to Cornificius, S. P. D.

1. CAius Anitius a familiar friend of mine, a man well-accomplished in all things, comes with a ti∣tular Ambassage into Africa, about his own occasions; I would have you further him in all things, and assist him that he may dispatch his businesse with all conveniency.

2. And especially, I recommend his honour unto you, a thing which is very dear to him.

3. And I request you, which I used to do my self in my own Province without entreatie, to allow Lictors to all Senators; which very thing I had heard and known to be usually done by eminent persons.

4. Therefore, my Cornificius, do this, and upon all occasions (if you love me) consult for his honour and businesse.

5. You cannot do me a greater pleasure.

6. Be carefull of your health.

34. M. T. Cicero to Cassius, &c.

1. THe shortnesse of your Letters makes me also more brief in writing; and (that I may say the truth) I do not well know what to write.

2. For I am sure, that our proceedings are brought to you in the Diurnalls, but we know nothing of yours.

3. For as if Asia were stopped, no news is brought to us, onely rumors of Dolabella being vanquished; which are indeed very constant, but as yet without any Author.

4. When we thought the war had been done and end∣ed, your friend Lepidus put us in a great deal of fear.

5. Therefore assure your self, that the greatest hope that the Common-wealth hath is in you and your forces.

6. We have the Armies very constant to us; neverthelesse though all things fall out happily, (as I hope they will) it imports you to come.

7. For the Common-wealth hath but little hope, I am loth to say none at all: but what ever it is, it is failing in the year of your Consulship. Farewell.

35. M. T. Cicero to Atilius, &c.

LUcius Manlius is of Sosa, he was sometimes of Catina; but he is now become a Citizen of Rome together with the other Neapolitans, and he is made an Alderman at Naples.

2. For he was made free of that Corporation before the freedom of that City was granted to the Confederates, and the Latines.

3. His brother is lately dead at Catina, I suppose he will have no controversie at all about the Inheritance, and he is already possessed of the estate.

4 But forasmuch as he hath old businesses besides in his coun∣try of Sicily, I recommend unto you both his brother's inheritance, and all his affairs; and above all I commend him to you as a very honest man, and familiar friend of mine, and one that is furnished with those studies of learning and Philosophy, which I am most taken withall.

5. I request you therefore, that, whether he come or not come into Cicilie, you would take notice, that he is one of my intimate and nearest friends; and that you would so en∣tertain him, that he may perceive, my commendation hath stood him in great stead. Farewell.

36. Tully and Cicero and Quintus, to the most courteous and honest Quintus Tyro, &c.

1. SEe what pleasantnesse is in you; we have been two hours at Thyreum: our hoste Xenomanes loveth you, as if he had lived with you.

2. He hath promised to provide you all necessaries, and I think he will do it.

3. I liked it well, if you were better, that you should remove to Leucas, if there you might wholly recover your self.

4. See how Curius, Lyso, and the Physician, like of it.

5. I had thought to send Mario back again to you, whom you might send to me, when you were somewhat better; but I considered, that Mario could bring but one Letter, and I expected many.

6. You may therefore procure, (and you will do it, if you love me) that Acastus may be every day about the haven.

7. There will be many by whom you may readily send Letters, that will be willing to bring them to me.

8. I indeed will not omit any body that goeth to Patrae.

9. I am very confident of Curius, that he will be diligent in looking to you: he is very kind and loving to us; refer your self wholly to him; I had rather see you well a little after, than presently sickly.

10. Therefore mind nothing else but to recover your health; I will look to other things.

11. Farewell again and again.

12. As I went from Leucas the seventh of November.

37. M. Cicero the father and the son, to Tyro, &c.

1. I Have written to you this third Epistle on the same day, rather to hold my resolution, than that I have any thing to write.

2. Therefore, according to the love you bear me, be dili∣gent in that matter.

3. Add this to your very many courtesies, which will please me the best of all; seeing, as I hope, you have a care of your health, have a care also of your sailing.

4. Send Letters to me by them that go into Italy, as I om••t no body that goeth to Patrae.

5. Have a care, have a care of your self, my Tyro; and seeing it hath fallen out, that you could not sail with us, there is no cause why you should make haste; neither should you mind any thing, but that you may recover your health.

6. Farewell again and again.

7. From Actium, the seventh of November, in the evening.

38. M. T. Cicero to Tyro, S. P. D.

1. TRuly I have a desire you should come to me, but I am afraid of the way; you have been very sore sick, and

are wasted away, what with fasting, and purging, and the strength of the disease.

2. Great hurts use to come of great diseases, if any dis∣order be committed.

3. Now to that two days, that you will be upon the way, whilst you come to Cumanum, there will be five days added for your return forthwith.

4. I will be in Formianum untill the latter end of the month

5. Let me find you there, my Tyro, lustie.

6. My studies (or ours rather) have languished for want of you; yet by this Letter which Acastus brought, they have lifted up their eyes a little.

7. Pompeius was with me when I writ these things, I told him merrily and freely, when he desired to hear of our affairs, that all mine were mute without you.

8. Do you prepare to make amends to my Muses for your diligence omitted, ours shall be done at the day ap∣pointed; for I have taught you the Etymology of Fides.

9. See that you be throughly well; we are ready present.

10. Farewell. The fourteenth of the Calends of January.

39. M. T. Cicero to Curio, &c.

1. YOu know very well there are many sorts of Epistles, but that one is the most notable, for whose sake the thing it self was invented; that we should certifie them that are ab∣sent, if there should be any matter, which it may concern us or them, that they should know it.

2. Surely you do not expect such Letters as these from me, for you have those that write and bring you news of your private affairs, and in mine there is no new thing at all.

3. There are yet two sorts of Epistles, which please me; the one familiar and conceited, the other familiar and grave.

4. I know not, whether of these I should lesse make use of.

5. Should I quibble with you by Letters? Truly I do not think he is a Citizen, that can laugh in these times.

6. Should I write any thing grave? What is it that Cicero can write gravely to Curio, except it be concerning the Common-wealth?

7. And in this ••••nd my case is such, that I am loth to write what I think.

8. Wherefore, because I have no other subject lest whereon to write, I will close as I am wont, and encourage you to p••oceed to the heighth of glory.

9. For you have a great adversary set and provided, a marvailous expectation; which you shall very easily overcome by one thing, If you resolve to employ your self in those matters, the glory of whose praise you admire, by such means as those praises are obtained.

10. I would write more to this purpose, but that I be∣lieve you are sufficiently incited on, of your own accord; and this whatever it is that I have toucht, I have not done it to enflame you, but to testifie my love. Farewell.

40. M. T. Cicero to Brutus, &c.

1. I Make use of Lucius Titius Strabo, a very noble and gal∣lant Roman Knight, as my bosome friend: we observe all Laws of strict acquaintance betwixt us.

2. Publius Cornelius oweth him mony in your Province.

3. That matter is remitted into Gallia by Volcatius, a Judge in Rome.

4. I desire you more earnestly than if it were my own case, (because it is more honest for one to stir about a friend's mony than his own) that you would take order to dispatch the businesse, that you would undertake it, and put an end to it; and that you would endeavour (so far as you think it just and reasonable) that Stra∣bo's freeman, who is sent about that matter, may finish his busi∣nesse upon very good tearms, and come by his mony.

5. This will both give me very great content, and you your self shall acknowledge L. Titius to be worthy your friendship.

6. Wherein I heartily desire that you would have a care, a•• you are wont to do in all things which you know I desire Farewell.

41. M. T. Cicero to Titus Fabius.

1. ALthough I, who desire to comfort you, stand in need to b•• comforted my self, because I have a long time take••

nothing so much to heart as your losse; yet I do not onely earnestly exhort you, but for our love's sake I request and entreat you, that you would recollect your self, and play the man, and consider in what condition all men, and what times we are born in.

2. Your own worth hath given you more, than fortune hath taken from you: because you have obtained that, which few up∣start men have gotten; and have lost that, which many great no∣bles have lost.

3. Besides, such a condition of the Laws, of judgments, and times, seems to approach, that he may seem to be best dealt with∣all, that is departed from this Common-wealth with the leightest punishment.

4. B••t you, that have means and children, and us with others linked with you in the nearest tye of acquaintance and love, and who are like to have a great liberty to live with us, and all your friends; and seeing there is but one judgment of so many, which may be blamed, as that which by one sentence, and that a doubtfull one, may be thought to be yielded to the power of some one man: For all these reasons, you ought to bear that trouble very leightly.

5. My affection shall always be such as you desire, and as it ought to be towards you and your children. Farewell.

42. M. T. Cicero to Trebatius, &c.

1. HEretofore I onely loved Dolabella, and was nothing be∣holden to him, neither had it hapned that I had need; and he was engaged to me, because I failed not him in his perills.

2. Now I am obliged to him by his so great courtesie, in that he hath given me abundant satisfaction, both heretofore con∣cerning your estate, and at this time concerning your safety, that I am more tied to no man.

3. Wherein I rejoyce with you so much, that I had rather have you be ioyfull with me, than give him thanks.

4. I do not at all desire the one, and you may do the other.

5. As for that which is behind, seeing your vertue and worth hath opened you a way to return to your friends; it will be a point of your wisdom and gallant-mindednesse, to forget what you

have lost, and to consider what you have recovered.

6. You shall live with your friends, you shall live with us: you have gained more honor, than you have lost in estate, which would then have been more pleasing to you, if there were any Common-wealth.

7. Our friend Vestorius writ to me, that you give me great thanks.

8. This divulging of yours pleaseth me very well, and I am willing you should use it both with others, and especially with our friend Syro.

9. For what we do, we desire may be very well liked on by every wise man.

10. I desire to see you, as soon as may be. Farewell.

43. Cicero to Trebatius, &c.

1. CHrysippus Vectius, free-man to Cyrus the Architect, made me think that you had not forgotten me; for he brought me commendations from you.

2. You are now become very nice, who think much to write unto me, being especially a friend almost as familiar as one of your own house.

3. But if you have forgotten to write, not many will be over∣thrown in their suits, if you be their Counsellor.

4. And if you have forgotten us, I will endeavour to come thither, before I be razed quite out of your mind.

5. If the fear of Summer-quarters discourage you, invent some excuse, as you did about Britannia.

6. I was very glad to hear by the same Chrysippus, that you a••e familiar with Caesar; but indeed it would like me better, a thing which was more reasonable, to understand as often as may be your own proceedings by your own Letter, which certainly would be so, if you would choose rather to learn the Laws of Amity than of Pleading.

7. But I have jested thus far, both after your wont, and some∣thing after my own.

8. I love you very dearly; and both desire, and am confident, that you love me. Farewell.

44. M. T. Cicero to Marcus Lepidus, &c.

1. FOrasmuch as I have a great desire, according to the infi∣nite love I bear you, that you should arise to some high de∣gree of honor; I took it ill, that you did not thank the Senate, seeing you were preferred to eminent honors by that Order.

2. I am glad that you are desirous to make peace among the Citizens.

3. If you quit that peace from servitude, you shall do for the good of the Commo••-wealth, and your own honor: but if that peace be like to re-establish that forlorn fellow in the possession of his unbridled Dominion, know, that all honest men are of this mind, to prefer death before servitude.

4. And therefore, in my judgment, you shall do wiselier, if you do not interpose your self in this Pacification, which is neither liked on by the Senate, nor the people, nor any good man.

5. But of these matters you shall hear by others, or be certi∣fied by Letters.

6. You, according to your discretion, will consider what is best to be done. Farewell.

45. M. Cicero to Cneius Plancus Im∣perator, Consul elect, &c.

1. MY endeavour had not been wanting to your honor, in re∣spect of our acquaintance, if I could have either soon, or safely, come into the Senate.

2. But no man that hath a free thought of the Common-wealth, can, without danger, converse in this great licentiousness of sword-men; nor doth it seem to consist with my honor there to de∣liver my opinion touching the Common-wealth, where men in Arms shall hear me better and nearer hand, than Senators.

3. Wherefore in private matters, you shall neither want any office or service that I can do you; nor will I be wanting to your honor in publick occasions, no though it be to my perill, if there be any thing whereat I must needs be present.

4. But in these things, which may neverthelesse be done, though I be absent, I desire you, that you would let me have a respect both of my own safety and honor. Farewell.

46. M. T. Cicero to Papirius Paetus, &c.

1. ANd yet you forsake not your malice; you hint, that Bal∣bus was contented with a very little provision.

2. This you seem to infer, Seeing kings are so sparing, men that have been Consuls ought to be much more.

3. You know not that I have fished all things out of him; for you know not that he came straight from the gate to my house: neither do I wonder at this, that he came not rather to yours; but that, that he came not to his own house.

4. And I asked him in the three first words, How doth our Paetus? and he sware to me, that he never was more willingly in any place.

5. If you have done this with words, I will bring you ears as dainty as his; but if with good cheer, let me entreat you, not to think the Balbi are more to be regarded than the eloquent.

6. One thing after another hindereth me every day.

7. But if I can acquit my self so as I may come into those parts, I will make, that you may not think that you were too late advertised by me. Farewell.

47. Caius Tribonius to Cicero, &c.

1. IF you be in health, it is well.

2. I came to Athens the 22 of May, and there (a thing which I very much desired) I saw your son addicted to the no∣blest studies, and in great repute for his modesty.

3. In which thing what pleasure I took, you may understand, though I say nothing.

4. For you know very well, how much I value you, and how, in regard of our antient and reall love, I rejoyce at all, even your least, prosperities, and not onely at this so great a good.

5. Do not thi••••, my Cicero, that I speak this to flatter you.

6. There is no•• more beloved than your young son, and there∣fore mine, (for there can nothing be mine but it is yours) by all them that are at Athe••s, nor more studious of those arts, which you most love, that is, of the best.

7. So that I willingly congratulate with you, (because I can truly do, it) and also with my self, that we find him, whom

we must of necessity love, to be such as we may willingly also love him.

8. Who, when he had cast out a word to me, that he had a desire to see Asia, he was not onely invited, but also entreated by me, that he would do it, especially whilst I was governour there.

9. Whom you need not doubt, but we will use him with as much dearnesse and affection, as you would do your self.

10. And I will take order, that Cratippus may be with him, that you may not think he shall be like to lose time in Asia, from those studies, which you exhort him to.

11. For I do not cease to exhort him, being, as I see, well-disposed, and far entred, to go forward every day further, by learning and exercising himself.

12. I knew not what ye did in the Common-wealth, when I wrote these Letters.

13. I heard some turbulent reports, which I desire may be false, that I once may enjoy quiet liberty, which thing I never yet obtained in the least.

14. Yet having gotten a little leasure in my Navigation, I have prepared you a small present according to my wonted manner, and have added in the end a Saying which you spake in much honour of me, and underwritten it beneath for you.

15. In which verses, if I seem more free than one ought to speak in some words, the basenesse of that person against whom I inveigh too freely, will excuse me.

16. Pardon also my choler, which is but just against such men and Citizens.

17. Besides, why shall it be more lawfull for Lucilius to as∣sume this liberty to himself, than for us? considering, that al∣though he bare them like hatred, whom he nipped; yet verily he had none more worthy, against whom he might raile with such liberty of words.

18. You, as you have promised me, will presently bring me in your Dialogues.

19. For I make no question, but if you write any thing of the death of Caesar, you will afford me no small part both of the mat∣ter, and your love.

20. Farewell, and let me commend my mother and all mine unto you. From Athens, May 25.

48. Cicero to Curius, &c.

1. BY your letters I plainly perceive two things, (which I al∣ways desired) that you both love me very well; and that you conceive, how much I love you.

2. Which seeing we have both of us obtained, it remaineth, that we strive one with another in good-turns, with which I may contentedly outstrip you, or be out-stripped by you.

3. I am well-pleased, that it was not needfull for my Letter to be delivered to Ancilius.

4. I perceive by your Letter, that you had no great need of Sulpitius's help, because your matter••s are so shuffled together, that, as you write, they have neither head nor feet: truly, I wish they had feet, that you might once return.

5. For you see, that old witty-jesting is already decayed, as our friend Pomponius might be bold to say, except we few do re∣tain the antient Attick glory; he then comes very near you, and I to him.

6. Come therefore, that such a seed of urbanity may not be ex∣tinguished together with the Common-wealth. Farewell.

49. M. T. Cicero to Acilius Viceconsul, &c.

1. IN the pleasant and noble City Alesa, I have Marcus and Caius Claudius's; Archagathus and Philo, my very good friends, both in their entertainments and familiarity: but, I am afraid, lest because I commend unto you many at once after an especiall manner, I should seem out of a certain ambition to make my commendations all alike: although you have abundantly satisfied both me and all my friends.

2. But I would have you understand, that this family and all these men are linked to me by old acquaintance, good turns, and loving affection.

3. And therefore I the rather request you, that you would fur∣ther them in all things, as far as may stand with your honour and credit.

4. If you do this, I shall take it as a very great favour. Fare∣well.

50. M. T. Cicero to Acilius Viceconsul, &c.

1. I Make use of Cneius Otacilius Naso as my very familiar friend, and so far, that I am not more familiar with any man of his ranck: for I am very much delighted both with his humanity and honesty, in my daily converse with him.

2. You need not now expect, with words I should commend him to you, whom I so make of, as I have written.

3. He hath some businesse in the Province, which his freemen Hilarius, Antigonus, Demostratus look after, whom I commend to you, and all Naso's affairs, just as if they were mine own.

4. You will do me a very great favour, if I may understand, that this commendation of mine hath prevailed much with you. Farewell.

51. M. T. Cicero to Acilius Viceconsul, &c.

1. I Have had antient acquaintance with Lyso of Lilybaeum, the son of Lyso, and I am much respected by him; and I know him to be worthy both of such a father, and grandfather, for it is a very noble family.

2. Therefore I do the more earnestly commend to you his estate and house, and heartily desire you to take care, that he may un∣derstand that this commendation of mine hath been a great fur∣therance and honour to him with you. Farewell.

52. M. T. Cicero te Acilius Viceconsul, &c.

1. CAius Avianus Philoxenus is my old hoste; and, besides his hosteship, also my very familiar friend, whom Caesar, to do me a courtesie, made a Citizen of Novum Comum.

2. Besides, he hath taken upon him the name of Avianus, because he was more acquainted with no man, than with Flaccus Avi∣anus, one that was my very familiar friend, as I suppose you know.

3. All which things I have ripped up together, that you may conceive this is no ordinary commendation of mine.

4. Therefore I request you, that you would assist him in all things, which you may do without any trouble to you, and rec∣kon him in the number of your friends; and effect things, that

he may understand, that these my Letters have been a great fur∣therance to him.

5. That shall be a very great favour to me. Farewell.

53. Cicero to Plancus Imperator, Consul elect, &c.

1. AS soon as I had occasion given me to advance your honour, I omitted nothing in your commendations, which consisted in the reward of vertue, or in the honor of words.

2. You may perceive that, by the order of the Senate; for it is so recorded, as I gave my judgment out of a writing; which a full Senate allowed, with an earnest desire, and generall consent.

3. Though I perceived by the Letter which you sent me, that you were more delighted with the approbation of good men, than with the badges of glory; yet I deemed, we ought to consider, though you desired nothing, how much the Common-wealth was engaged to you.

4. You shall finish that which others have begun.

5. For he, that shall suppresse Marcus Antonius, shall put an end to the war.

6. Therefore Homer called neither Ajax, nor Achilles, but Ulysses, A Conqueror of Cities.

54. M. T. Cicero to Cassius, &c.

1. WHat was the state of things then when I writ this Letter, you may know by Tidius Strabo, an honest man, & wel-affected to the Commonwealth; for why should I say, most affectionate towards you, who having left his house and means is gone chiefly to you?

2. Therefore I do not so much as commend him to you, his comming wil sufficiently commend him unto you.

3. I would have you thus think, and perswade your self, that all the refuge of good men lyeth in you and Brutus, if any thing crosse happen, which I should be loth.

4. For when I writ these things, matters were brought to the last cast.

5. For Brutus had now much ado to hold out at Mutina;

who, if he be preserved, we have got the victory; but if he be suppressed, (which God forbid) all men will flie unto you.

6. Wherefore see you have so much courage, and so much pro∣vision, as is necessary for recovering the whole Common-wealth. Farewell.

55. M. T. Cicero to Cornificius his Collegue, &c.

1. YOur mindfulnesse of me, which you signified in your Letter, is very pleasing to me; which I entreat you keep, not be∣cause I doubt of your constancy, but because it is a fashion to en∣treat thus.

2. Some news of tumults have been told us out of Sy••ia, which because they are nearer you then us, they trouble me more for your sake than for mine own.

3. All things are very qui••t at Rome, but so as one would wish rather some wholsome and honest doing; which I hope will be, because I perceive Caesar hath a mind to it.

4 Understand, that while you are absent, I write more boldly, as having gotten an occasion and liberty, and other things per∣haps, which even you your self would allow me.

5. But I writ lately of the best form of speaking, wherein I often suspected that you differed a little from my judgment, as one schollar may do from another.

6. I would have you give your good-liking to this Book from your heart; if it be not so deserving, yet to do me a courtesie.

7. I will tell your friends, that they may write it out if they please, and send it to you.

8. For I think, though you do not so well like the subject, yet, in that your solitude, any thing that commeth from me will de∣light you.

9. Whereas you recommend to me your reputation and honour, you do as all others do: but I would have you think, that I both respect you much for the love, which I know is betwixt us, and have such an opinion of your vertuous studies, and the hope of your arising to great honor, that I prefer no man before you, and think you have but few your equalls. Farewell.

56. M. T. Cicero Thermus, &c.

1. BOth many things have liked me well, which you have done upon my recommendation, and this especially, that you have so courteously used Marcus Marcilius my friend's and interpreter's son.

2. For he came to Laodicea, and thanked you very much unto me, an•• ••e because of you.

3. Wherefore, as for what is behind, I request you, seeing you have bestowed a savour upon gratefull persons, that you would the more willingly benefit them; and endeavour, as far as it may consist with your credit, that the young-man's mother-in-law may not be questioned.

4. As before I much commended Marcilius, so now I commend him much more; because in his long attendance I have had ex∣perience of the singular, and almost incredible fidelity, abstinence, and modesty, of his father Marcilius. Farewell.

Notes

• Fam. 14.••2.
• Fam. 14.21.
• Fam. 14 8.
• Fam. 14.23.
• Fam. l. 14. Epist. 24.
• Fam. l. 14. Epist. 17.
• Fam. l. 14. Epist. 15.
• Fam. 14.19.
• Fam. 14.12.
• Fam. 14 11.
• Fam. l. 16. Epist. 2.
• Fam. 16. Epist. 4.
• Fam. 16.25.
• Fam. 13.25.
• Fam. 17.18.
• Fam. 13.6.
• Fam 13.3.
• Fam. 12.27.
• Fam. 6.16.
• Fam. 11.4.
• Fam. 13.20.
• Fam. 10.9.
• Fam. 7.4.
• Fam. 10.14.
• Fam. 9 23.
• Fam. 4.15
• Fam. 9.12.
• Fam. 2.14.
• Fam. 7.22.
• Fam. 11.15.
• Fam. 6.9.
• Fam. 12.20
• Fam. 12.81.
• Fam. 12.9.
• Fam. 13 30.
• Fam. 16.1.
• Fam. 16.7.
• Fam. 16.12.
• Fam. 2.4.
• Fam. 13.14.
• Fam. 5 8.
• Fam. 6 11.
• Fam. 7.14.
• Fam. 10 27.
• Fam. 10.2.
• Fam. 9.19.
• Fam. 12.16.
• Fam. 7▪ 41.
• Fam. 13.32.
• Fam. 13 33.
• Fam. 13.34.
• Fam. 13.35.
• Fam. 10.13.
• Fam. 12.6.
• Fam. 12.17
• Fam. 1••.••4.