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

THE TENTH BOOKE OF THE FAMILIAR EPISTLES OF M. T. CICERO. (Book 10)

Cicero to Lucius Plancus, Im∣perator, elected Consull. Epist. 1.

I Was departed from Rome, to goe into Greece: when in the mid-way, imagining I was recal∣led, as by some voyce of my Countrey, I ••ooke a cour••e to re∣turne. Since which returne, Marcus Antonius hath held mee in cont••nuall turmoyles: who is, I will not say, so

insolent, (for many haue this defect) but so wicked, and cruell, as hee would not, that any man, not onely in words, but not so much as in shew, should en∣ioy a freedome. Whereupon, I re∣maine in great perplexity; not about my life; to which, by yeeres, and ende∣uours; and, (if it ought auailed) I may tell you, that euen with glorie also, I haue giuen satisfaction: but I greeue for my Countrey, and principally, for the expectation of your Consulship: which is so prolonged, as wee may de∣sire, [but] to liue till that time. And what hope remaines, if all matters bee bee ouerswayed by the armes of ••he most insolent, and most vnbridled man that liues? If the Senate, and people, be of no force? If the authority of the Lawes, and Tribunals, is fallen? If there bee no more, either forme, or foot-step of a Common-wealth? But because it imports not, that I should write vnto you all particulars: they ha∣uing been specified vnto you by others: I will acquaint you with that, which loue moues mee to tell you of, which I haue borne you from your child-hood; and haue euer, not onely preserued, but augmented it: remembring, and ex∣horting you, to embrace with all study and care the Common-wealth: which, if it continue till the time of your Con∣sulship, it will be no great trouble to go∣uerne

it: but to procure, that it may so long continue; there is required, not onely speciall diligence, but also no lit∣tle fauour of Fortune. Y••t I hope, wee shal enioy you sōwhat ••ooner. And be∣sides that I am bound, to giue assistance to the Common-wealth; your honor doth so neerely touch mee, that I will therein employ all my councell, ende∣uour, offices, labour, paines, and dili∣gence, to augment your reputation. By which meanes, I know I shall easily dis∣charge my selfe, both to my Country, which to me is most deere; and to our amitie; which in my esteeme, ought by vs most sacredly to be obserued. I won∣der not, but reioyce, that you carrie your selfe towards our friend Furnius, as his courtesie, and place requireth. And be assured, that I will hold that e∣steeme, of whatsoeuer you doe in ho∣nouring, or benefitting him, as if you had honoured, and benefitted mine owne person. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus. Epist. 2.

I Would not haue failed to employ my selfe in your behalfe, in respect of our inward amitie, if I could haue come in∣to

the Senate, either securely, or with honour. But no man, that thinks freely of the Common-wealth, can without danger conuerse in the middest of armes, and such extreme licenciousnes•• neither doe I iudge it befitting my qua¦lity, to speake in the occasions of the Common-wealth, in a place, where ar¦med men may better, & neerer at hand, heare me then Senators. Therefore in priuate occasions, I wil n••uer faile you, either in offices, or fauour: nor yet in publike, will I euer be wanting, though with perill; if there be any businesse in hand, that requires my presence•• to maintaine your dignity. But in such matters, as without my being there, may be brought to effect, I will request you, to be content, that I may h••ue re∣ference to mine owne safety and repu∣tation. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus. Epist. 3.

I Met with Furnius, to my great con∣tentment, for his owne sake: but much greater, in that hearing him, me thought I heard you speake. He decla∣red vnto mee, how valiantly you beare your selfe in the warre; how vprightly

you gouerne the Prouince; and finally, what prudence you manifest in all your actions: yeelding withall a te••timony, both of your humanity, well knowne to me before, in our familiar conuersa∣tion; and of your singular courtesie vsed towards him. All which things haue afforded me great delight; but the last, together with delight, content∣ment. I retained neere amitie, my Pl••n∣cus, with your Familie, somewhat be∣fore you were bo••ne: I loued you, from the tender yeeres of you•• infancie, and in confirmed age, we held familiar conuersation; proceeding from the loue I bare you, and from the good o∣pinion, you conceiued of me. And for these considerations, I wonderfully af∣fect your aduancement; the which I e∣steeme to be common betwixt vs. For∣tune, but rather your owne vertue, hath ex••lt••d you to high degrees of honour, you being ye•• but a young man. From whence, the enuie of many, which you haue outstripped by wit, and industrie, proceedeth. Now, if you'l follow my rule, who loue y••u equally, to anie o∣ther olde friend of yours whatsoeuer: From this time forward, seeke to pur∣chase all honour, from a well reformed Common-wealth. You know, (for be∣ing wise, what know you not?) how there was a certaine time, when men supposed, that you too much followed

the qualitie of the times. Which I should also surmize, if I thought you approued the things you tolerated. But, I, conceiuing what you thought: sup∣pos'd you prud••ntly obseru'd that which you could. Now, all things are carried after another fashion. Iudge∣ment is your owne, and free: you haue beene elected Consull in your rip••r yeeres, with notable eloquence, when the Common-wealth stood in greatest need of such like persons. Bend your selfe, I beseech you, to that care, and cogitation, which may bring you the highest of esteeme, and glorie. And to ascend soone to renowne, especially in these times, when our Countrey hath beene now for manie yeeres so incum∣br••d; there is onely one way: to bee a good Citizen in publike in••erests. I thought good to write these things vn∣to you; rather instigated out of loue, then that I supposed you to haue need of my admonitions, and documents. For I knew, that you had them from the same fountaine, from whence my selfe formerly drew them. Therefore I'le end. Thus much I thought good to deliuer vnto you, rather to sig∣nifie my affection, then to mani∣fest anie wisdome. In the meane while, with all affection and diligence, I will that waies bend mine endea∣uours, wherein, I suppose, I may

adde anie thing to yout reputation. Farewell.

Plancus to Cicero. Epist. 4.

YOur letters were verie acceptable to me; which, as Furnius words did intimate, I conceiue, were written with your owne hand. I had written to you before now, but that I understood, you were departed from Rome: and I was adu••rtised of your returne, not long be∣fore the receit of yours. Mee thinkes I canno•• omit anie office, that concernes you, how small so••u••r it bee, without gr••a•• blame. Whereunto I am bound for manie reaso••s; for f••iendship pa∣ternall; for my ancient obseruance; and for the loue you beare me, equall to that which I beare you. Wh••re∣fore, perswade your selfe, my Cicero, that onely you, as a Father, I must deuoutly honour: in that for your yeeres also, you, may be a father to me; I, a son to you. Whereupon it comes to pas••e, that all your counsels, seeme vnto me full, not onely of singular pru∣dence, which exceedeth; but of fide∣litie, which I measure by mine owne conscience. And if I were of a contrary

opinion to yours, your instructions doubtles might change my mind: & if I were doub••full of anie thing, I would vpon your exhortations, dispose my selfe, to follow what course gaue you best satisfaction; But now, my opinion is wholly conformable to yours. What fortune hath allotted me, and what by mine owne endeuou•• I haue obtained; though you, blinded with loue, iudge it to be more, then in effect it is; yet, it is so much in any mans iudgement, though he were my verie enemie, that besides a good name, I see not what is wanting. And therefore, hold this for certaine: that, what I am able with my power to effect, with my counsell to prouide; or with my authoritie to moue; it shall euer bee wholly applied to the benefit of the Common-wealth: your minde lies not concealed from me: and if I could bee neere you, as questionle••s•• I would desire: In euerie thing I would follow your coūsell. And now, I will endeuour so to order the matter, as you shall not bee able in rea∣son, to reprehend anie action of mine. I looke for aduertisements, from all parts, by which I may vnderstand, what is done in the hither Gallia; and what passeth in Rome, in the moneth of Ianuarie. In the meane while, I am here, in great perplexitie; for f••are, lest these people, among others defects,

may take some euill opportunities from our countrie men. But if Fortune fa∣uour me, according to my desert; you shall see, that I will giue good satisfacti∣on; both to your selfe; which I excee∣dingly desire; and to all men of honest meaning. Haue a care of your health, and loue me, as I doe you.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator, elected Consull. Ep. 5.

I Receiued two letters from you, of one tenour; which was vnto me a manifest signe of your diligence. For I perceiued, how much you desire, that your letters more then any other thing by me exp••cted, might be deliuer'd me. I say therefore, they were most well∣come to me: and they haue made mee doubtful, whether I should hold dearer; your loue towards me; or the aff••cti∣on you did manifest towards the Com∣monwealth. Certainely as I iudge, affection borne towa••ds our coun••rie, is a matter of great moment; but the loue, and conuinction of two mindes, comprehends a greater delectation. That part therefore, where you com∣memorate the friendshippe I had with your father, and the l••u•• which fr••m

your childehood, you bare towards me; and somewhat more, which you haue written to that purpose, afforded me infinite contentment. On the other side, it was pleasing to me, to behold; how well you were disposed, both now, and euer to assist the Commonwealth. And this my contentment was the greater, because it was annexed to the masters aboue mentioned. Wherfore, I doe not onely exhort you my deare Plan••us; but effectuallie I entreat you; as I did in those letters, to which you so courteouslie made answer; that, with all your vnderstanding, and the whole force of your minde, you will studie to procure the good of the Com∣monwealth. There is nothing, that can redound to your greater benefit, and glorie. And of all worldly things, there is not any one more excellent, and honourable, then to be beneficiall to our countrie. I speake freely to you, because I thinke that you, like an affa∣ble and wise man, will accept of it as hitherto you haue done. By the helpe of Fortune, it seemes you haue obtai∣ned great honors. The which, though without vertue, you could neuer haue atchieued: yet, in all mens opinion, Fortune, and the qualitie of the times, haue had the greatest hand therein•• But now, that the commonwealth stands so afflicted; euery helpe which you

shall administer, will only be attributed to your selfe. It is an incredible thing, how odious Marcus Antonius is to all Cittizens; except to those, who toge∣ther with himselfe, haue betrayed their countrie. We hope much, in you, and your armie, and promise much to our selues vnderstand, I beseech you, how to apprehend the oppor••unitie of such a Fortune, and so great glorie. I ad∣monish you as a sonne: I wish the same to you, that I doe to my selfe: If I in∣cite you to Action, my countrie, and the great loue I beare you, moues mee thereunto. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator elected Consull. Ep. 6.

THe matters which our Furnius hath deliuered touching your affection towards the Commonwealth, were ve∣rie acceptable to the Senate, and high∣ly pleasing to the people of Rome. But the letters openly read in the Senate, seemed not to confront with Furnius speeches: For in them you exhorted to peace; now, when Decimus Brutus your colleague, a ••enowned person, is beleaguered by wicked Cittizens: who; armes being laid apart, either ought to

seeke peace; or, if they demand it with armes in hand, this peace must be ob∣tained with victorie, and not by way of accord. But Lepidus letters, and yours, concerning the perswasion of peace; how farre they were accepted of, you shall vnderstand from your brother, an excellent man; and from Caius Furnius. I, for the affection I beare you; al∣though you neither want counsell, nei∣ther is the loue and prudent fidelitie, of your brother, and Furnius, euer like to faile you: neuerthelesse, infinite rea∣sons of ••ur Friendship leading me thereunto, am also mooued, out of the interest I haue in you, to set you downe some instruction. Beleeue therefore, my deere Plancus, that all the degrees of honour, you haue hitherto obtai∣ned, (and you haue enioyed the grea∣test) will be no true honours, though they carrie the title, If you ioyne not your selfe with the libertie of the peo∣ple of Rome and the authoritie of the Senate. Many in the commotions of our Common-wealth, were Consuls: but he that wrought nothing worthy of his Consulship, was neuer held for Consull: Such an one therefore, it is fitting that you should be. First, that you fall off from the league of wicked c••tizens, much vnlike your selfe; Then, that you resolue, to be head, principall, and conductor of the Senate, and all

good men: [and] lastly, that then you iudge it to be a peace; not when armes are laide downe; but when all feare of armes, and ••eruitude is remoued. If you performe, and approue of these things, you shall then not onely bee Consull, and Consular; but also a great Con••sull, and a great Consular. But if other∣wise; these so much reputed titles of honor, will not onely not honour you; but call vpon you great dishonor. The loue I professe vnto you, hath made me peraduenture, to write too freely; but you shall vnderstand, that I haue spo∣ken the truth, if you make thereof but that triall, which is requisite. Fare∣well.

Plancus Imperator, elected Consul, to Cicero. Epist. 7.

I Would write more at large vnto you, of my counsells; and I would giue you a particular accompt of all things; that you might the better con∣ceiue, that I, both according to your instructions, and mine owne promi••e, haue done what I am able for the be∣nefit of the Common-weal••h: for I euer desired a••well your good opinion, as your loue; and my in••e••tion was

not to be defended by you in erro••rs, but for my deserts to be commended: but I intend to be briefe for two causes: one is, because in my publike letters, I haue particularlie set downe all things: another, by reason, that to Marcus Va∣risidius, a Romane knight, and my friend, I haue giuen order, that he should come of purpose to finde you out, and that he should informe you of whatso∣euer had occurred. Certainely I felt extreame griefe, seeing others enioyed the possession of praise: But I would attempt no enterprise, determining to prepare my selfe thereunto after such a manner, that I might atchieue some∣thing, which might be worthie of my Consulship, and your expectation. And if Fort••ne deceiue me not, I hope my disseigne will fall out as I would haue it: that euery one, may both now perceiue, and hereafter remember, that I haue giuen great ayde, and assistance to the Commonwealth. I beseech you be fauourable to my dignitie; and en∣deauour, that those rewards may bee yeelded me, which you propounded vnto me in recompence of my com∣mendable labours: which doing, you shall more incite me heereby, to the defence of my countrie. I know that your power herein, is equall to your desire. Be car••full of your health, and loue me, as I loue you.

Lucius Plancus Imperator, elected Consull; to the Consulls; Praetors; Tribunes of the people; Se∣nate; people; and Communaltie of Rome. Epist. 8.

IF some peraduenture thinke, that I haue held too long in suspence, the expectations of men, and the hope, which the Common-wealth had of me: I suppose it, first requisite for mee to excuse me to these men; before I promise, that from this time forward, I will discharge my du••ie. For, I will not appeare to haue corrected an error committed: but I would it should bee knowne, that hauing alwaies borne a reall minde; now, when I found a conuenient time, I haue discouer'd it. I vnderstood my selfe thus farre; that in so great troubles, and in such a tu∣multuous esta••e of the Cittie, it was very profitable to giue a testimonie of an affectionate Cittizen: and I saw diuers had receiued great honours; vpon the like occasion; but Fortune hauing brought me to that passe; that if I manifested my selfe for you, too soone, I should frustrate my de∣signes, and lose the hope I had to assist

the Common-wealth; and in not lay∣ing my selfe open, I might haue greater oportunities to doe you seruice; I made choice to haue a regard to common safetie, more then to mine owne estimation. And what man in the world, in the fortune I haue had; after I had liued, as euerie one knowes I did liue; being in the hopes that I am in; could euer support anie base action, or desire anie, which might be dange∣rous? But, time, great labour, and mightie expence, was requisite; to per∣••orme that, in effects, which I to the Common-wealth, and all good men had promised; and to repaire to the ayde of my Cou••trie, with such forces, as were answerable to my intention. It was behou••full for me, to confi••me the Armie, tempted oftentimes with great rewards; and to induce it, rather to hope for moderate ma••••••rs from the Common-wealth, then infinite boun∣ties ••rom one alone. It was conuenient, to confirme diuers Cities, the which our enemies•• the yeere pa••t, by large donatiues, had oblieged to th••mselues: whom it was expedient to perswade; that they should not esteem gifts, which proceeded from men of that condition; and that it were mo••e co••mendable for them to receiue the same benefits, from persons, that bare a better minde towards the Common-wealth Be∣sides

thi••, It was behouefull, by policie, to win the hearts of others, which had the gouernment of neighbour Prouin∣ces, and of the Armies: to the end they might esteeme it bet••••r, to defend ge∣nerall libertie in the companie of ma∣ny; then with a few, to obtaine a vi∣ctory lamentable to the whole world. And besides the things forementioned, it was nece••sarie that I should fortifie my selfe by ingrossing the Armie; and, to multiplie succors: to the end; that when afterwards I openly reuealed my minde; then, though some tooke it ill, there might be no danger to make knowne, what part I would defend. Therefore, I will neuer denie, that I fained diuers things again••t my will; and dissembled many with my griefe; to attaine my end of such designes For, how dangerous it was, for a good Cit∣tizen, before due time to manifest him∣selfe; by my Colleagues case, I had con∣ceiued. And for this respect, to Cai••s Furnius, my Legate, a valiant, & resolute man, I gaue more commissiōs by word of mouth, then in writing: to the end, they might more secretly be to you cō∣ueied; & my self r••maine more secured. I also informed him of the prouisions, which to secure the common safetie, and to arme vs, is behoouefull. From whence it may be collected, that long since, the defence of the cōmon wealth

had in my heart made deepe impressi∣on. Now, through the Gods benignitie, I being well furnished of all things: I desire, that men would not onely hope well of me; but settle on me a secure, and infallible iudgement. I finde my selfe to haue fiue Legions, vnder their Standards; for their fidelitie, and va∣lour, much affected to the Common-wealth; and, through the bountie I haue vsed to them, as ready at my com∣mand as possiblie may be. I retaine the Prouince, together with all the Citties well affected; and more then carefull to discharge their duties: [And] as ma∣ny horse and foot, as these nations can raise; to defend their safe••ie and com∣mon libertie. As for me, I am so en∣couraged, either to defend the Pro∣uince, or to goe whither the Common-wealth shall summon me, or to resigne, the armie, succors, and Prouince; that I refuse not to take vpon my selfe, euen the whole brunt of the conflict: so that, by my ruine, I might but confirme my countries safetie, or abate the perill. If I make these offers (euery thing being now set••ed, and in a peaceable estate of the Cittie,) with the preiudice of mine owne praise: yet shall I reioyce in the benefit of the Common-weal••h. But if the same dangers still remaine: I referre my selfe to iust Iudges; that may defend me from the malignitie of those, that

enuie me. A large satisfaction ••or my endeuours, shall be the safetie of the Common-wealth. I thinke good to en∣treat you, that you would take these souldiers to your speciall recommenda∣tion; who mooued by my authoritie; but much more, trusting in your fideli∣tie; haue suffered themselues to be de∣ceiued with no hope, propounded to them; nor with any danger haue beene daunted. Farewell.

Plancus Imperator, elected Consull to Cicero. Ep. 9.

I Am glad, that neyther I, wrot rashly to you; nor you promi••'d any thing to others erroniously, concerning me. Certainely, you haue so much the grea∣ter testimonie of my affection; by how much I desired my designes might bee knowne sooner to you, then to any o∣ther. But I hope you perceiue well, how my deserts towards the cōmonwealth, grow euery day greater: and I assure you, you shall continuallie better know it. As for me, my Cicero, (so the Com∣mon-wealth may be freed by my helpe from imminent ruine) I in such man∣ner value you•• honors, and rewardes; worthie questionlesse to bee parallel'd

with eternitie; that I will notwithstan∣ding, without them, abate nothing of my courage, or of my constancie. If, amongst many excellent Cittizens, the resolution of my mind appeare not singular, and the effects remarkeable: I will not, that one ••ot be by your fauour added to my dignitie. Now, I aske no∣thing in mine owne behalfe, rather, I affect the contrarie. But, I am content, you should be the man, to dispose of the time, and affaires at your pleasure. The reward, which a Countrie giues to a Cittizen, ought to seeme neither late, nor little. I p••ssed ouer Rhodanus, with mine Armie, the xxvj. of Aprill. I sent a thousand Caualiers before, to Vienna, by the shorter way, and by great dayes iourneyes I, not being hindred by Le∣pi••us, will be answerable in expedition. But if he oppose himselfe to mee in the way, I'le take a course as the time per∣mits me. I lead such an Armie, as gi∣ueth great hopes; both for valour, num∣ber, and fidelitie. I pray you loue me: because you may perceiue your selfe beloued of me. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator electe•• Consull. Ep. 10.

THough I vnde••stood sufficiently by our friend F••r••ius, what your determination, and aduice was, about the Common-wealth. Neuerthelesse, hauing read your letters, I mo••e mani∣festly discerned your whole int••nti••n Wherefore, though the whole fortune of the Common-wealth depends one∣ly vpon one battaile; which question∣l••sse, I did thinke by that time you should come to read this letter, would be determined: Notwithstan••ing by the fame onely, that is dispersed of your good meaning, you h••ue gained great commendation. Whereupon, if the Con••ull had beene at Rome: the Senate to your gre••t honor would haue mani∣fested, how acceptable your fo••ce was, and preparation: of which, the time is not onely not ••ast, b••t hitherto, so far as I can iudge, no•• come. For that one∣ly was wont to appeare vn••o me, t••ue honour, which is con••••rred vpon vali∣ant me••; not t••rou••h hope of future benefit, but for a recompence of wor∣thie actions. Wher••fore, so there bee any Common wealth, wherein honour may be re••ucent; be secure, you shall obtaine all honours. And in my opini∣on,

that which is bestowed vpon men, to inuite th••m to noble attempts, can∣not truely be termed honour: but ho∣nor is that, which is bestowed for deeds performed. Therefore, my Plan∣cus, striue by all meanes, to get prayse eternall. Rescue your Countrie: suc∣cour your Colleague. Assist this affecti∣on, this miraculous league of all the na∣tions: I'le helpe you in your occasions, I'le further you in your honors, and in all occurrents, I'le be most louing and faithfull to you. For, to the many rea∣sons, which are betweene vs, of true and auncient amitie: there is annexed the ioynt affection we both, beare to our Countrie: And this is the cause, that I preferre your life, before mine owne. Farewell. The 29. of March.

Plancus to Cicero. Ep. 11.

I Giue you, and while I liue will giue you infinite thankes: for, to returne you deserts, I dare not promise: because I thinke not my selfe able to counter∣uaile your so many kind offices. except peraduenture (as you grauely, and pru∣dently haue written) you are of this o∣pinion, that to remember an obligati∣on, be a rendring of good turnes. If there had beene an occasion, touching

the honour of your owne son; doubt∣lesse, you could not more affectionate∣ly haue laboured therein. Your first mo∣tions; by which you sought to procure me infinite rewards: those that follow∣ed; where you applied your selfe to time, and the opinion of friends; your continuall, and perpetuall discourse of me; your contestations made with ad∣uersaries in my defence, are verie well knowne vnto me. So that, I must take no slender care, to shew my selfe to∣wards the Common-wealth, a cittizen worthie of your commendations; and to your selfe, both mindfull, & thanke∣full. For the rest; prosecute that which you haue begun: and if in eff••ct, and triall, I proue such an one, as you haue striuen to set me forth; defend me, and take me into protection. Hauing passed my men ouer the riuer Rhodanus, and sending my brother before, with three thousand horse; In my way towardes Mutina, I heard of the battaile fought; and how Brutus was free'd from the siege of Mutina. I considered that An∣tonius, and those men that remained with him, had no other receptacle but these quarters; and, that they might haue two hopes; one, of Lepidus, and another of his army•• one part of which, carries no better mindes, then the fol∣lowers of Antonius. So that I caused my Cauallerie to returne. I, stayed vpon

the territorie of the All••broges, that I might be readie, as occasion serued. If Antonius retire hither, without Forces: my mind giues me he may easily be re¦sisted; and, we may effect that for the Common-w••alth, which you d••sire; though he should be receiued by Lepi∣dus armie But, i•• he bring men with him: and, if the old tenth Legion, the which by my meanes, with the others, betooke thems••lues to our defence, shall againe rebell•• yet I will haue an eye, that no great damage shall accrew: and th•••• I hope to doe, till ayde may come from th••nce, and so being all ioyned togeth••r, we may more e••sily extirpate t•••• seed of wicked Cittizens In conclusiō I promise you thus much•• my Cicero: that n••••ther courage, nor diligence, sh••ll be wanting on my part. To speake truth, I desire, to t••ke away all trouble remaining: but if any bee left; I will giue place to no man; ney∣ther in resolution, affection, o•• pati∣ence in your seruice I end••uour also what I can, to draw Lep••••us to ioyne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this enterprise: and I offer my selfe in all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be at his comm••••d; so he will st••nd for the Common wealth I vse h••••e••n the helpe and meanes of my brother, o•• La••••ensis, and ou•• friend Furnius Particular h••treds shall be no hindrance to me, but that with nay greatest en••mie I will agree, for th••

safetie of the Common-wealth. And in case I should doe no good; I will not abate my courage; and I will be more readie, and hardy then before: and peraduenture, it may redound to my greater glorie, that I haue de••ended the Common-wealth with mine owne for∣ces onely. Looke to your health, and to loue me, as I doe you Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator, e∣lected Consull. Ep. 12.

THough I ought to reioyce in the behalfe of the Common-wealth, that in times of such necessitie, you haue so greatly assisted her: Neuerthe∣lesse, may Fo••••une so grant, that I may embrace you a Conquerour, in the happie state of the Common-wealth; as a great part of my ioy, proceedeth from your digni••y: which I know now, to be very eminent, and will also be so hereafter. For I assure you, that more acceptable letters then yours, were ne∣uer recited in the Senate. And this hap∣pened, both through a singular great∣nesse, of the good, that you haue done in the Common-wealth; and also, through the grauitie of the words, and sentences. Which questionlesse, seem'd

no new thing vnto me, who was well informed of your valour; and called to minde, what you promis'd me, in the letters you sent me; and had fully also by our Furnius beene aduertised of your designes. But the Senate, apprehended greater matters, then were expected: not that it euer doubted of your dispo∣sition, but it had not full information, neither what you were able to doe, nor what you intended to attempt. Where∣fore Marcus Varisidius, hauing deliuered me your letters, on the vij. of Aprill in the morning; I tooke, in reading them, infinite contentment: and a great mul∣titude of excellent Cittizens accompa∣nying me out of my house, I presently made them all partakers of my conten∣tation. Afterwards came our Munatius, out of his wonted custome, to see mee, and I shewed him your letters; for as yet he knew nothing, because Varisidius came first to me: and he said, that so you appointed him. A little after, Munatius gaue me those letters to read, which you sent both to him, and to the pub∣licke state. We thought good presently, to goe and present the letters to Cornu∣tus, Praetor of the Cittie: who, because the Consuls were out of Rome, accor∣ding to the auncient custome, supplyed their place. The Senate was forth with co••uented: and almost all the Sena••ors ••ss••mbled, th••ough the fame and ex∣pect••tion

of your letters. Which be∣ing recited, Cornu••us had a scruple of conscience, by reason the Pullarian southsayers tooke notice, that he had not vsed requisite diligence, in making the diuinations. And this was appro∣ued by our Colledge. Whereupon the businesse was de••erred till the day fol∣lowing. On which day, I contended much in defence of your honour with Seruilius•• who hauing by fauour obtai∣ned, that his opinion should first bee heard: the greater part of the Senate op∣posed him and my opinion, which was the second, to be moued, being allow∣ed of by the greater part of the Senate: at Seruilius entreatie, Publius Titius spake against it. The matter was refer∣red ouer to the next day. Seruilius came prouided with an vniust minde, euen a∣gainst Ioue himselfe: in whose T••mple the mater was heard. Now, how rough∣ly I handled him, and how roundly I cut of Titius, that oppos'd himselfe a∣gainst vs, I wish you may vnderstand by other mens letters•• take this onely from mine: That the Senate could not bee more graue, more constant, nor more fauourable to your praise, then at that instant it shewed it selfe. And yet, the Senate was not more friendly to you, then the whole Cittie. For there was a wonderful accord to deliuer the Com∣mon wealth: and all the peo••l•• of Rome

concurre to this enterprise: prosequute therefore, as you doe, and make your name ••ternall: and all these semblances of glorie, rai••'d from vaine appearances of renowne; contemne them as s••ort, flitting, and transitorie things. True ho∣nour consists in vertue: which illustrates it selfe more then any way els, by effec∣ting great seruices for the Common-wealth: whereof Fortune sets bef••••e you, a most admirable oppo••••unitie. Which hauing once embraced•• suffer it not to flie from you: but procu••e that the Common-wealth may be no lesse bound to you, then you to her. As for me, you shall perceiue, that I will not onely be fauourable to you in ho∣nour, but I will also seeke, how to aug∣ment it in you: not to faile in the office I owe, as well to the Common-wealth, which I loue aboue my selfe; as also to our vnfained amity. And in those cour∣ses which I haue vnde••taken for the ad∣uancement of your honour, I take g••eat delight; for, the fidelitie, and wise∣dome of Ti••us Mana••us, othe••wise hath beene well knowne vnto me, mo•••• euidently perceiu••d, in the loue and diligence he hath vsed in your occa∣sions. Farew••ll.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator, elected Consull. Ep. 13.

VVHensoeuer occasion was of∣fered me, to aduance your honour, I omitted nothing in your commendation; labouring, that your valour might be as well exalted with words, as acknowledged with rewards: as by the Senates decree it selfe, you may perceiue. For so was it recorded in writing, euen as I reading the written paper of mine owne hand•• had perswa∣ded: and the greater part of the Senate, followed my o••inion, with singular de∣sire, and generall cons••nt. Though I, by the letters you sent me, vnderstood, that you were more delighted with the approofe of good men, then with out∣ward appearance of glory; neuertheles, I thought fit we should enter into con∣sideration, though you demanded no∣thing, how farre the Common-wealth was indebted to you. Finish you tha••, which was begunne by others. And whosoeuer suppresseth Marcus Antoni∣us, that man shall finish the warre. And therefore Homer called neither Aiax, nor Achilles, the bane of Troy; but V∣lysses. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator, elected Consull. Ep. 14.

O Acceptable newes, two dayes be∣fore the victorie: of your succour, endeuour, expedition, and armie. Vn∣derstand, that though your en••mies be discomfited: yet all hopes remaine in you: it being informed, that from the battaile of Mutina, the principall Cap∣taines of the aduerse par••y are fled And it will be no lesse acceptable to make an end of the remainder of this wicked warre, then to haue repelled it at the beginning. I, questionlesse, together with many others, expected ere this your letters: and I was in hope, that Le∣p••lus also, admonished by the sequell, ••ould haue vnited himsel••e with you, and the Common-wealth. Prosequute it therefore, my Plancus, to this issue; that not a sparke of that abhominable warre, may remaine vnquenched•• which if you procure, the Common-wealth shall acknowledge from you an infinite benefit, and your selfe shall purchase e∣ternall glorie. Farewell.

Plancus Imperator to Cice∣ro. Epist. 15.

HAuing written these letters, I thought it imported the common-wealth, that you should vnderstand what followed. My carefulnesse, as I hope, hath produced good effects, both to my selfe, and to the commonwealth. For by daily meanes, I wrought with Lepidus, that al priuate contestation laid apart, and being reconciled with me; with ioynt affection we might succour the commonwealth; and that he should make more account of himselfe, of his children, and of his countrie; then of a wretched, and base robber: and that in so doing, he should dispose of me in all things at his pleasure. I haue there∣fore obtained my purpose by the meanes of Laterensis. He hath giuen me his fidelitie, that he will persecute Mar∣cus Antonius with armes, if he cannot keepe him farre from his Prouince. En∣treating me withall, that I would ap∣proch, and ioyne my forces with his. And so much the rather, because it was reported, that Antonius was strong in Cauallerie, and Lepidus hath but a small troope of horse: and of those few he had; not many dayes before, ten of the best came away from him, into my

Campe. Which when I heard, I made no delay, supposing it requisite, that I should ayd Lepidus, while he had so good an intention. I saw, what benefit my arriuall would procure, either be∣cause with my Cauallerie, I might pur∣sue, and defeate Antonius horse; or be∣cause that part of Lepidus armie, which had beene seduced, and alienated from the Common-wealth, by the presence of my Armie, might be bridled, and kept vnder. Whereupon, making a bridge, in one day, ouer Isara, a great r••uer, that runnes vpon the confines of the Allobroges, I passed ouer with my Armie, the xii of May. But it being told me th••t Lucius Antonius, sent b••fore with horse and foot, was come into Forum I••lij, the xiiij. of May I sent my brother, with foure thousand horse, to affront him. And I by speedie dayes iourn••ies, with foure expedite Legions, and with the r••st of the horse, will fol∣low after. If the fortune of the common wealth afford vs neuer so little fauour, we shall here make an end of the inso∣lencie of these rascalles, and our owne trouble. If that theese, vpon our com∣ming begin againe to retire himselfe into Italie; It will be Brutus part to con∣front him: to whom I know, neyther courage nor counsell will be wanting. Notwithstanding my selfe, if this hap∣pen, will send my brother with the

horse, to pursue him, and to defend Ita∣lie from forraging. Haue a care of your health, and as I loue you, loue me. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus. Epist. 16.

DEare Plancus I haue seen nothing ••uer happen more glorious, no∣thing more acceptable, nor in respect of the time it selfe also, more oppor∣tune then your letters. For in a full Se∣nate, they were presented to Cornutus, at the same instant, when hee had read the most inconstant, and cold [letters] of Lepidus. After which, yours were presently recited, whereupon great shouts arose. For, besides their being most acceptable for the matters they contained, and ••or your benefits, and affection towards the Cōmon-wealth, they were replenished with most graue words, and sentences. The Senate im∣portuned Cornutus, that he would pre∣sently propound about your letters. He sayd he would consider thereof; whereupon recei••ing a great che••ke from the whole Senate, fiue T••ibun••s of the people, cons••ited of them. S••r∣••ius at the instance of some others, p••o••longed

the matter. I deliuered such an opinion, that all agreed thereunto. Of what tenour it was, by the Senates decree you shall vnderstand. you, though you need no counsell, but are rather fit to counsell another: must neuerthelesse beare this minde; not to referre any thing hither: and vpon these so suddaine, and vrging accidents, not to thinke to demand Councell of the Senate. Be you a Senate to your selfe: Whither soeuer the benefit of the Commonwealth calls you, goe that way: and procure that we may heare of some notable action, before we can suppose, you went about it. I assure you, that whatsoeuer you atchieue, the Senate wil approue it, not only as loyal∣lie, but wisely vndertaken. Farewell.

Plancus Imperator to Cicero. Epist. 17.

ANtonius the xv. of May, came with his vaunt-guard into Forum Iulij. Ventidius lies two daies iourney from him. Lepidus is expected at Forum Vo∣conij. Which place from Forum Iulij, is foure and twentie miles distant. There he meanes to attend me, as he hath written to me. Whereupon, if no al∣teration

grow, either from him, or For∣tune; vpon my credit, I promise you, presently to accomplish this enterprise, according to your desire. I wrote last vnto you, how my brother, ouercome with continuall trauaile, and posting vp and downe, was grieuously sick: neuer∣theles so soone as he was able to march; esteeming that he was recouered, not so much for himselfe, as for the Common-wealth, he refused not to be the for∣most in all dangers. But I haue not only exhorted, but enforced him, to re∣paire thither: first, because being yet weake, he might rather preiudice him∣selfe, then further me: and then; because I thought that the Commonwealth re∣mayning naked by the lamentable death of the Consuls, might haue need of such a Cittizen to be Praetor in the affaires of the city•• wherein, if any of you commend me not: know, that ther wanted prudence in me to aduise him, and not any fidelity in him towards his country. Lepidus hath in conclusion performed that, which I desired, In s••n∣ding me Ap••ll•• for hostage of his fideli∣ty: and of the league concluded be∣tweene vs in defence of the Common-wealth. Lucius Gellius, one of the three Segauian brethren, hath made me vn∣derstand his good disposition therein: and last of all I haue vsed him as a meanes with Lepidus. Of whom I wil∣lingly

giue testimony, and will euer render it to them that deserue well. Be carefull of your health, and loue me in the same manner, that I loue you: and take my honour to your protection, as hitherto most louingly you haue done.

Plancus to Cicero Epist. 18.

WHat I was resolued of, when ••••uius, and Nerua departed f••om me; by the letters I gaue them, as also by themselues, you may app••ehend•• who were p••esent, at all my Actions, and at all my Counsels. That, hath befallen mee, which to a man iealous of his honour, and desirous to satisfie the commonwealth, and all good men, is wont to happen: That, to discouer my good inten••ion, I followed a course which was rather dangerous, then se∣cure; which by malignant minds might be con••rou••ed. Whereupon a••ter the departure, of the Amba••••adours, seeing that Lepidus with two letters, one after another, entreated me to come: and Laterensis, much more feruently as it were with teares, coniured me to the same: for no other cause, but in that he feared the instability, and in••••de••ity of

his armie; of the which I al••o stand in feare: I thought it fit to succor him; and to expose my s••l••e to danger, for his ••afety•• though I knew, it had beene a farre more secure course to haue bin attending vpon Isara, while Brutus had passed ouer his Armie; and ioyned with him, as the custome of the wars is, to haue marcht against the enemie. But if Lepidus being well affected, had recei∣ued the least preiudice, I saw all this would haue beene ascribed, ei••her to my obstinacie, or feare: to my obsti∣nacie; because it would haue beene sayd, that I had abandoned a good cit∣tizen, for some particular enmiti••s: for feare; because in so necess••rie a warre, I had auoided battaile. So that, I le••t that secure course; supposing it better to expose my selfe to daunger, that with my presence, I might defend Lepidus, and ouer-awe his armie; Questionlesse I thinke, there neuer was any man, more sorrowfull, for de••••cts that were not his own••. For whereas, the ma••ter was no waies doubtfull: now, when the Armie of Lepidus failes, it d••••ues me to gr••at care, and seemes vnto me, as it is; a point of great impo••tance. For if I had beene the first to encounter with Antonius: he s••ould no•• doubt∣lesse haue held out an hour•••• so confi∣dent I am in my selfe, and so much I contemne his shack-ragge people, and

those of Ventidius the Mule-driuer. But I cannot but greatly feare, being suspi∣tious, least vnder the skinne there bee some hidden wound, the which may first festor, before it can be discouered, or cured. But certainly, if we encam∣ped not both in one place, both Lepidus himselfe would be in great danger, and that part of the armie, which is well enclined towards the Commonwealth. Our wicked enemies had also made great profit, if they had gleaned any men from Lepidus. Which disorders, i•• by my arriuall I do remedie, I shall thanke Fortune, and mine owne con∣stancie, which incited me to make this triall. Wherefore the xxi of May, I re∣moued the Campe, from the Riuer of Isar••, leauing the bridge yet ••tanding there, which I made vpon it, with two Towers, at each end one; and with a strong guard: to the end, that to Bru••us, who was comming; and to his armie, without any delay, the pa••••age might be readie. I hope within eight daies after the date of these presents, I shall vnite my selfe with Lepidus forces. Fare∣well.

Cicero to Plancus Imperator. Epist. 19.

THough my desire was not, that you should thanke me; knowing, how exceeding thankefull, b••••h in thought, and deedes th••mselues, you are: yet, (I must confesse,) it contented me a∣boue measure. For I haue seene, as men with the eye behold obiects; that you loue me. You••le say, what did you be∣fore? To deale truelie, I alwayes saw it; but neuer more apparant. Your let∣ters are wond••ous well-come to the Se∣nate; aswell for the affaires themselues, which were waightie, and great; com∣passed by an inuincible spirit, and with deepe consideration: as also, for the grauitie of the words, and sentences. But, noble Plancus, striue to the vtmost of your power, to bring this warre to a period. Thu•• shall you arriue vnto the depth of fauour, and the height of glo∣ry. I wish all good vnto the Common∣wealth: but I giue you my faith, that finding my selfe now wearied out in conse••uing her, I doe not much more seeke her profit, then your glorie. Of which the eternall gods hauing, as I hope, offered you all opportunitie; em∣brace it I beseech you•• For, it is he shall make an end of this most impious, and

dangerous warre; that subdues, Au••o∣nius. Farewell.

Cicero to Plancus. Ep. 20.

ALL newes were so vncertaine, that came from thence, as I knew not what to write vnto you. For some∣times we heard such things of Lepidus as we wi••hed, other whiles the contra∣ry. Of you notwithstanding, there was a constant report, ••hat none can either deceiue, or vanqu••sh you. In the one of which things Fortune ha••h a hand; the other is proper to your owne wise∣dome. But I recei••ed letters from your Colleague, dated the xxv. of May: wherein was contained, how you had written to him, that Lepidus gaue no entertainment to Antonius. The which will be more certaine if you write the same vnto vs. But you dare not perad∣uenture do it, by reason of the vaine ioy of the le••ters past. But, as you might well erre, my Plancus, (for who is hee that erres not?) so 'tis well knowne to euery one, that it was impossible you should be out-reached•• And now, you cannot onely, not be deceiued, but you can no more erre; because the verie vulgar reprehends that man, who

stumbles twice vpon one and the same stone. But if the matter so stands, as you write to your Colleague; We are rid of all care: but to assure our selues ther∣of, we expect your letters. This, in briefe, as many times I haue written vnto you, is my opinion: whosoeu••r cuts off the reliques, he will carry away the glorie, to haue ended the whole warre. Which honor, I wish, may bee yours, and I am confident, it will be so. Touching the diligence I haue vsed in your affaires; which vndoubtedly could not be greater; I am exceeding well pleased that you take it in so good part: and I wonder not, for I conceiued as much. But if matters passe well there, you shall obserue my diligence to be greater; and in farre greater effects. Farewell. The xxix. of May.

Plancus to Cicero. Epist. 21.

I Should bee ashamed of the incon∣stancie of my letters, if it had not growne from anothers leuitie. I haue assayed all meanes, to vnite my selfe with Lepidus, in defence of the Com∣mon-wealth: to the end, that with your lesse mol••station, wee might bee

able to resist wicked Citizens. All things he demanded, I haue promised, and proferred him of mine owne good will. And I wrote vnto you two dayes since, how I trusted, that Lepidus would helpe me; and follow the warre with common consent. I gaue credit to the letters of his hand, vpon Laterensis affir∣mation, being present: who then was with mee, and entreated mee to bee re∣conciled to Lepidus, and to giue him credit I could not long conceiue this good hope of him. I looked nar∣rowly to the matter; and will bee care∣full, that through my credulitie, the State of the Common-wealth suffer no detriment. Hauing passed the riuer Isara with my armie, a bridge being in one day made ouer the same, and vsing expedition therein, according to the importance of the businesse; hee ha∣uing requested mee by letters, that I should hasten my comming; his mes∣senger came to me, with other letters; wherin he aduised me, that I should not come: for, hee could performe the ser∣uice of himselfe: [and] in the meane while, I should stay for him, at Isara. I will lay open vnto you the rash course I had meant to haue vndertaken. I, notwithstanding was resolued to goe; imagining, that he was not desirous to haue anie companion in the glorie [of the seruice. Yet] conceiuing that he

was beyond measure, ambitious of this honour: I would not attempt any thing therein, but onely lye in pla∣ces neere hand; to the end, that if need required, I might be able without delay to succour him. This I simply cast in my head: but behold, Lat••rensis, a sincere man, wrote vnto me with his owne hand, and to my friends in like manner; shewing, that he had no more hope of himselfe, nor of the Armie, or of Lepidus fidelitie; and lamenting, that hee was betrayed. wherein hee plainely admonish••t mee, that I should take heed of being deceiued: that hee was no more bound to that, he promi∣sed: that I should not bee wanting to the Common-wealth. I haue giuen the copie of his letters to Titius, the Ori∣ginals themselues, and those to which I giue credit, and those to which I supposed no credit was to bee giuen, I will deliuer to Laeu•••• Cispius, to bee conueyed: who was present at all these things: To helpe the matter; Lepidus speaking in publique; his souldiers wic∣ked, and disloyall of themselues; and being also corrupted by the R••freni, and Canidij, their Commanders; and by others, whom, when time serues, you shall know; c••ied out, (See the charity of y^• men) that they would haue peace; and, that they would not sight with a∣nie, hauing seene the death of two fa∣mous

Consuls, and of so many Citizens for their Countrey; and the Common-wealth hauing banished, as rebellious, all Antonius followers, and confiscated their goods: and Lepidus neuer puni∣shed them, for this their disloy••ltie, nor did hee in anie sort remedie the same. And, had I come thither, and vnto two Armies lying together, exposed a loy∣all, and faithfull Armie; great succors; the Princes of Gallia; and the whole Prouince: I saw, what a wonderfull folly and temeritie it would haue been: and, that when I had beene defeated, and had with my selfe ruined the Common••wealth, th••re was none that in my de••th, wold haue afforded mee anie honour; nor haue had so much as compassion of me; whereupon I am to returne backe: nor will I endure, that vagabonds shall haue so great a for∣tune. I will seeke to plant mine Armie in places of aduantage, to defend the Prouince; though Le••idus Armie doe rebell against vs; [and] to preserue e∣uerie thing in it present state and con∣dition, till you, from thence, send suc∣cours; and may wi••h equall felicitie here also defend the Common-wealth. Neither to fight, if occasion se••ue; nor to endure a siege, if it bee necessarie: nor to dye, if the case so fall out, in your seruice; shall anie be more readie then my selfe. I exhort you therefore, my

Cicero, to procure, that fr••sh men bee sent out of hand, before the enemie grow stronger, and wee more danted. Wherein, if expedition bee vsed, the Common-wealth shall remaine in pos∣session of victorie, and the wicked bee ex••irpated. Bee carefull of your health, and wish me well. I thinke I shall not neede to excuse my selfe to you; though my bro••h••r, a valiant Cit••zen, and ready for all seruices, be not come thither. By running vp and downe, he hath gotten a continuall seuer, ••nd very trouble∣some. As soone as hee can, I will pro¦cure him to c••rne without delay: th••t he may in no place faile the Common-wealth [o•• his s••ruice]. I pray you, bee tender ouer my reputation. It is not requisite that I s••ould desi••e any thing at your hands, knowing that ••ou doe and may, as I d••sire, i••fini••••ly loue me. Your kindnesse toward me, how great you will it shall be, and in wh••t time demonstrated, I l••••ue to your conside∣ration. Now may de••••••e is, that you wou••d procu••e me Hirtius place, for the l••ue that you beare me, and for the obseruance that I owe you. Fare∣well.

Cicero to Plancus. Epist. 22.

ALL our hope is in you, and your Colleague: and wee attend good effects from diuine fauour. Your a∣greement, which the Senate vnder∣stands by your letters, hath giuen won∣derfull contentmēt, both to the Senate, and also to the whole Citie. What you writ vnto me about the diuision of the Campes; if the Senators had been so∣licited for their opinions, I should haue ioyned with him, that had yeelded the honourablest opinion of you: which sentence, I my selfe would haue pro∣nounced: but, seeing that the time would draw vs on too long, by reason of the opinions deliuered in sundry mat∣ters, of which, none concluded anie thing; it seemed verie conuenient to mee, and to your brother Plan••us, to make vse of that decree; about which, who, was an impediment, that it was not made according to our minde, I suppose, by the letters of your said bro∣ther, you haue vnderstood. But, if you desire any thing, either in the Senates decree, or in any other respect: bee perswaded of this, that the affection, all good men beare you is so great, that you can imagine no kinde of ho••our,

how great so euer, which you may not easily obtaine. I expect, with great de∣sire, your letters; and expect them, such as I exceedingly desire, they should be. Farewell.

Plancus to Cicero. Epist. 23.

I Will neuer repent, my Cicero, to haue vndergone great perils, for my coun∣trie; so that, when any misfortune be∣fals me, I may not be taxed with teme∣ritie. I would confesse I had erred through in discretion, if I had euer of mine own head giuen credit to Lepidus: for credulitie is rather an error, then an offence: and indeede it easilie fals into the minde of all honest men. But this was not the defect that had almost de∣ceiued me. For I knew Lepidus too well. What was it then? the regard of my honor, which in the warres, is of great importance, vrged me to expose my selfe to this danger. For if I should not haue vnited my selfe with Lepidus, I feared, least some maligne fellow might haue suggested, that I made more account of that priuate enmitie which was betwixt vs, then of the in∣terest of the Commonwealth; and al∣so

that I nourished the warre, by my protraction. Whereupon, I lead my men, almost in sight of Antonius, and L••pidus, encamping my selfe some for∣tie miles from them; with dissigne, that I might presently make an app••oach, or retire my selfe, without losse. I had these respects, in making choyce of the place. Fi••st, to haue the riuer before me, where••s the•• should stay to passe ou••r. Then, that the Vocont•••• should b•• nee••e me, that so I might securely m••r••h with my men, through their count••ie. L••pidus, being o••t of hope of my comming; the which he watch∣ed carefully, to suprise me; ioyned with A••t••nius, the xxix. of May: and the verie same day, they moued their Campe towards me. When they w••re wi••hin twentie miles of me; I h••ard thereof. I laboured by the gods helpe, with cel••ritie, so to ret••••e my selfe; wi••hout making shew of flight; that not a Soldier, foot, or horse, nor any of the carriages might be lost, or intercepted by those ••auenou•• the••ues. Whereupon the iiij. of Iune, I passed ouer Isara, with all my m••n, and I cut downe the bridges, I had made thereon: to the end that my people might haue time to be reincouraged•• and that in the meane while I might ioyne with Brutus, whom I expected three daies after the date of this pre∣sent,

I must euer confesse, that our Lae∣terensis, was of a singular fidelitie, and courage towards the Common-wealth; but certainely, his too great trust in Lepidus, per••i••ted him not to foresee th•• d••nger, wh••ch might ensue; who seeing himselfe d••ceiued, and be••trayed by ••epidus, would haue sl••ine himselfe ••i••h his owne hand: seeking to do•• that to his owne bodie, which he should haue performed vpon L••pidus: In which case he b••ing hindred, he yet liueth, and as it is said, he will escape it. But neuerthelesse, of this, I haue lit••le certaintie. I, to the trayto••s great griefe, haue escaped their hands. For they came ••nraged against mee, with the same fu••ie, that they came against their countrie. Whe••eunto they had fresh prouocations: because I had con∣tinually solicited Lepidus to end the warre: because they reprou'd the mee¦tings hel•• [to this end] because I deny∣ed the Ambas••••dors, to come into my presence, which were sent vnder Lepi∣dus safe conduct; because I intercept••d Caius Caninius Vestinus. Tribune of the souldiers, sent vnto him from Marcus Antonius, with letters. Whe••ei••, I take this contentment; t••at certain••ly, the more they sought to entr••p me, the more grie••e 'twas to them, that they had no successe therein. Looke you, my Cicero, to doe that which hitherto

you haue done, [that is] carefully, and stoutly to fauour vs, that follow the warres. Let C••sar come, with all his mightie forces; or if any thing hinder him, let his armie be sent: considering that he also is in great danger. Whatso∣euer force this accursed societie could make against their countrie, is by this time at the highest. And for the Cit∣ties securitie, why should we not vse all our forces? I certainely, for what con∣cernes my selfe, if you that are there fa••le not, will euery way giue sufficient satisfaction to the Common-wealth. Questionlesse, deare Cicero, my loue to you daily increaseth, and the benefits you daily conferre vpon me, augment my care, that I may not loose a iot, ei∣ther of your loue, or opinion. I desire, that in presence, with my obseruance, and endeauour, I may now at length shew you, that I am mindefull of your deseruings: to the end that you may remaine satisfied for that, which you haue performed in the behalfe of my honour. Farewell: the vi. of Iune, from Ciuaro, on the confines of the Allobr••∣ges.

Plancus Imperator, elected Con∣sull, to Cicero. Epist. 24.

I Cannot but giue you thankes, for all your fauours, and deserts: but in truth I am ashamed to doe it. For nei∣ther to so great a friendship, as you haue pleased to hold with me, seemes it that ceremoniall offices are befitting; neither doe I, for so great benefits re∣ceiued from you, seeke willingly to giue you words for recompence. I had rather personally, by obseruing you, by pleasing you, and by being continu∣ally about you, giue you to vnderstand; that I thinke vpon my obligation. But while life lasts me, I will exceed all ac∣ceptable amities, and religious affini∣ti••s, in obseruing, pleasing, and cour∣ting you. For the loue you beare me, and the opinion you retaine of mee, whether it will procure me more per∣petuall honor, or more daily content, I cannot easilie determine. Concer∣ning the benefit of the soldiers. I see you haue had a c••re: whom I; not by reason of my greatnesse, (for I am pri∣uie to mine owne minde, that I affect nothing, which is not profitable) haue sought they may be rewarded by the Senate: but, first of all, because I iudged, that they had so deserued; and

then, in that my intention was, that vpon euery occasion, they might haue beene more engaged to the Common-wealth: and finally, that alienating their minds, from whomsoeuer would attempt to corrupt them•• I might still vphold them in that good affection to¦wards you, wherein hi••herto th••y haue continued. We haue as yet kept things in the state they were. Which course of ours; though I conceiue, how desi∣rous men a••e of such a victorie, (and not without reason;) yet I hope, by you 'twill be approu'd. For, if any dis∣comfiture should light in these Armies, the Common-weal••h ha••h no great succours on ••oot, by which, the sudden viol••nce, and imp••ous wills of traytors mig••t be resisted: and I thinke ••y forces are well knowne vnto ••ou. In my Campe there are three old legions, and one of fresh men, fl••u••is••ing a∣boue all the r••st: and in Bru••us Campe one old Legion; another of ••ouldiers of two yeares standing; and eight, of new ••upplies. And so the a••mie is mighti•• in number, and little in power. And i•• battailes, what confidence may be put in fresh souldiers; ••x••••ri••nce hath t••o much taught vs. Wi••h 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fo••ces of our A••mies, if the A••••rican host, which is of old souldiers; or that of Octa••ian••s were conioyned, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 would willingly come to a battaile, and ex∣pose

the Common wealth ••o hazard. It is true, that for what belongs to Octa∣uian, wee did see the effect something neare. I haue not failed to perswade him by letters: and he hath alwayes affirmed, that he would come without any delay: and now I perceiue, that, changing this resolution, he enter•• in∣to other desseignes N••uerthelesse, I haue sent vnto him our friend F••rnius, with commission and letters, to see whether he can worke [any thing ••ith him.] You know, good Cicer••, ••••uch∣ing the louing of Octaui••nu••, that I ac∣companie you: either because being familiar with Caesar, when he liued, it was then fit for me to embrace and loue him: or else because he, so farre as I could discerne, was of a m••st dis∣cre••t, and affable condition: or ••lse, in that I hauing entertained so inward a∣mitie with C••sar; me thinkes it were a bru••••ish thing, not to retaine Octau••a∣nus in the same degree: who by his, and your iudgement, was adopted in place of a sonne. But what I write vnto you, I swe••re, I rather write it out of griefe, then any rancour. That Antonius at this day liues; that Lepid••s io••nes with him; that they haue armies of no small account; that they hope; that they dare attempt; they may acknowledge it wholly from Octauianu••. Neither wil I rip vp things past; but at the same instāt

when hee offered to come, if hee had come; the warre had either now beene finished, or out of Italie; and to their great preiudice reduced into Spaine, which is their greatest enemie. Now, what reason mou'd Octauianus: or who aduised him, that from so great a glo∣rie, and so necessarie for himselfe, and his securitie, he fell off, and turn'd his minde, to demand so foolishly [or with such an insulting importunitie] the two moneths Consulship, to the great a∣mazement of men; I cannot imagine. And as for the present necessitie, I am of opinion, his friends may moue him greatly, no lesse to his owne, then the ben••fit of the common-wealth. Your selfe may also doe much, as I thinke: from whom he hath [receiued] as great benefits, as any man liuing, ex∣cept my selfe. For I will neuer forget, how I stand bound vnto you, for infi∣nite respects, and of greatest moment. I haue enioyned Furnius to treate with him of these things. And if he will be∣leeue, and follow my counsell, as hee ought: he shall thereby reape a great aduantage. In the meane while wee su∣staine the warre, vpon hard conditions. For neither doe we iudge, that we may very securely come to battaile; nor yet, by auoyding it, would we giue occasi∣on, that the Common-wealth might receiue greater preiudice. But if Octaui∣anus

haue any regard of his honour; or that the African Legions come out of hand; Wee will worke so, that you shall bee secure in these parts. I pray you loue me, as you haue begunne; and perswade your selfe, that I am yours as much, as your owne neerest proprieties. This xxviij of Iulie, from the Campe.

Cicero to Caius Furnius. Epist. 25.

IF it import, as men suppose, that you, as you haue begun, and hitherto haue done, should ••ndeuour your selfe ••or the benefit of the Common-wealth; and be conuersant in waightie employ∣ments, which belong to the extingui∣shing of the reliques of the warre: it seemes you cannot vndertake any thing better, more commen••able, or more honest. And I ••m of ••pinion, that this your endeuour, diligence, and affection towards the Common-wealth, is to be preferred before the Praetorship: the which, not being ••et time, you sue for. For I would h••u•• you vnderstand how great praise you haue purchased, the which certainely is in a manner equall

to that of Plancus; and by Plancus own testimonie; and besides, by fame; and the knowledge of euerie man. Where∣fore I aduise you, not to depart from thence, till euerie sparke of the war re∣maining, be ex••ingu••sh't: for, nothing can procu••e you greater honour. And you know, honor shold aboue all things be preferred. And when you think you haue giuen full satisfaction to the Com∣mon-wealth; then, I would counsell you, to come out of hand, and demand the Praetorship; in that Praetors are shortly to bee created. But take heede, that this ambitious haste, diminish no∣thing of that glorie wee haue attained. Manie men of renowned fame, being abroad in the seruice of the Common-wealth, forbare to come to Rome, that yeere, that was allotted them, to stand for Magistracie. Which you should so much the rather do, because this is, not your proper yeere: but if you had been Aedile two yeeres since, then this had beene your yeere. Now, though you should forbeare to demand the Prae∣torship, it will not seeme that you haue omitted a moment, of the vsuall and ordinarie time of demanding it. And when Plancus shall bee Cousull, though without his helpe, you might easily obtaine it; neuerthelesse, I see, that then your demand will bee, with far greater reputation; so that, matterrs

there succeed, as they are wished. I know 'twas not necessarie, for mee, to speake much to this purpose; knowing you to be wise, and of profound iudge∣ment: but I was desirous y••u should vnderstand my opinion; of which this is the sum: that I would wish you to be carried, rather by true honou••, then ambition: and to esteeme grea∣ter benefit to consist in the perpetuitie of your ••r••is••; then in the hastning of a Praetorship. These verie poynts haue I di••cus••ed at home, in the presence of my brother Quintus, and of C••cina, and Ca••••isiu••, your dear••st friends; Dardanu•• your free-man, being there, at the same instant. All of them thought, that I was herein of a sound opinion, yet I refer my sel••e to your mature iudge∣ment. Farewell.

Cicero to Caius Furnius. Epist. 26.

HAuing read your letters, wherein you intimated, that it was requi∣site, either to let the N••rbon••ns••s depart, or with danger to ioyne battaile: I was much perpl••xed•• through doubt of the fight: and now, I am glad to vnder∣stand, that you h••ue shunned it. As

touching that you write vnto mee, a∣bout the concord of Plancus and Bru∣tus: I herein repose great hope of vi∣ctorie. Of the affection of the Galli, wee shall one day vnderstand, as you write, who was the principall occasion. But, I assure you, wee know it alreadie. Whereupon, reading your most plea∣sant letters, I was, towards the end, a little moued, in that you wrote; that if the creation of Praetors were put ouer to the moneth of August, you would come out of hand: and sooner, if they were created alreadie; not to appeare more foolish with your owne perill. Oh, my Furnius, how ill, you mannage your owne occasions. Considering, that you so easily learne to prosecute another mans. You suppose now, that you are to bee one of the elected, to stand for the Praetorship: and you re∣solue, either to come in all poste, to be at the Creation, or else it being past, to come, to remaine at your owne house. And this you write, you'l do; affirming, that to proceed anie further in the dan∣gers of the warres, were but a meere folly, for it would cost you too deere. I thinke you speake not in good ear∣nest, knowing you, to bee desirous of true praise. But if your minde bee an∣swerable to your words, I reprehend not so much you, as my selfe, which before this time, could no better looke

into you. To obtaine then a Magistra∣cie before the time, which is ordinarily bestowed on euerie man; and is of no great repu••ation, being attained vnto, as the most part doe; would you lose so manie attributes of houor, by which euerie one d••seruedly, extols you to the skies? It precisely importeth you, rather to be made Praetor at this crea∣tion, then at that which is to come. The maine point is, that you so steed the Common-wealth, that afterwards, all honour and Magistracie may bee due vnto you. Doe you not see now, to what an high degree you are mounted? or care you not ••or it? If you perceiue it not, I hold you excused: the blame is mine. But if you discerne it; how is it possible, that you can prefer this Prae∣torship, either before a dutie, which e∣uerie man stands bound to pay vnto his Countrey? though few doe pay it; or to renowne? which vsually is deerest to all men. In this, I, and Caluisius, a verie wise man, and your great friend, condemne euerie day your iudgement. And yet with all our power, wee labour, to prorogue the Creation, till Ianuarie; we iudging, that for manie res••ects, it may redound to the benefit of the Common••wealth. Conquer therefore, and liue in health.

Cicero to Marcus Lepidus, Epist. 27.

HAuing, in resp••ct of the infinite loue I beare you, an hearty desire, that you should attaine to some su∣preme, and high degree of honour: I tooke it ill, that you returned not thankes to the Senate; hauing beene prefer••ed, by those orders, to eminent honours. That you are desirous to la∣bour a peace between fellow Citizens, I am glad; If you can but quit that peace from seruitude, you shall benefit the Common••wealth, and ••our owne honour. But if this peace be, to re-esta∣blish that same bad fellow, in the pos∣session of his vnbridled dominion; conceiue that all good men are of this resolution, rather to dye free, then liue in serui••ude. And therefore in my iudgement, you shall doe farre more wisely; not to interpose your selfe in this accord: of which, neither Senate, people, nor anie honest man receiues contentment. But these matters you shall vnderstand from others, or else be cer••ifi••d of them by letters. You, ac∣cording to your accustomed wisdome, may bee able to resolue, what is best. F••rewell.

Cicero to Caius Trebonius. Epist. 28.

OH how I wisht, that you had inui∣ted me, to that same glorious ban∣quet o•• the xv. of March: none of those reliques should haue remained, which put vs now to so much trouble, that, that diuine peece of seruice of yours, perform'd in behalfe of the Common-wealth, is accompanied with some ble∣mish. And because that wicked wretch•• was taken at one side by you, (though I know, you did it to a good end) and [that] through your fauour, this pesti∣lence yet liues though I ought not, yet•• I cannot choose sometimes, but I must be halfe angrie with you. For, you haue left more molestation to mee alone, then to all others whatsoeuer. Because, so soone as after the reprochfull depar∣ture of Mar••us A••tonius, the Senate could freely be as••emble••; I returned to defend the Common-wealth, with that vnd••unted mind, I was accustomed; for which, you, together with your Father, a most noble Citizen, haue euer commended, and loued m••e•• By rea••on, that the Tribunes of the people hauing ••ummon'd the Senate, the xx. of D••c••mber, and another bu∣sin••sse be••ng pro••ounded, I sp••ke in ge∣nera••l, touching the sta••e of the Com∣mon-wealth:

and my courage tran∣sporting mee further then my wit, I so effected, that the Senate, now crazie, & languishing, seem'd to reassume its for∣mer vigor, & custom. This was the first day, that the people of Rome, moued by the efficacie of my words, and acti∣ons, conceiued som•• hope of recoue∣ring their libertie. And yet after that, I omitted no time, not onely to bethinke me, but to endeuour something also for the benefit of the Common-wealth. And, if I thought not, that you had par∣ticular aduertisement, by some other meanes, of that which passeth in Rome: I, though most busied, would not bee wanting therein, to giue you satisfacti∣on. But I know you shall haue notice thereof, by the letters of some of your other friends: from mee you shall vn∣derstand some few matters, and that briefly. We haue a worthie Senate; the Consulars partly fearefull, and part∣ly ill affected. Great preiudice did ac∣crue by the death of Seruius Sulpicius. Lucius Caesar carries a verie good mind: but because hee is Antonius Vncle, hee proceedeth not so freely. The Consuls can be no better then they are. Decimus Brutus beares himselfe wondrous well: and so does Caesar the yo••th: who, I hope, will prosecute, as he hath begun. Be•• assured of this; that if hee had not presently taken into pay the old com∣panies;

and if two Legions of Anto∣nius Armie, had not come vnder his command; and th••t this ter••our h••d not oppo••ed him; there is no im∣pietie, or crueltie, which Antonius would not haue commi••ted. Though I suppo••ed you had heard of these things, yet I was willing to lay them more o∣pen vnto you. I will write more at large, when time permits me. Farewell.

Cicero to Ampius. Ep. 29.

VVIth what care I h••ue labou∣red about your affai••es, and safetie, I suppose your friends haue cer∣tified: who I know on my part remaine well satisfied. Neither will I yeeld to them, though they beare you singular loue, ••hat they should affect your good aboue my selfe. But necessarily they must graunt this vnto me, that now, I can doe you more good, then they can. Which certainely I haue not ••ailed to performe, no•• euer will. And I hau•• al∣ready discha••ged it in a most impo••tant matter, & laid th•• foundations of your safetie. Be of good cheare, and rouse vp your spirits: being most assured, that I will neuer faile you, in any occurrent whatsoeuer: the sixt of Iuly. Farewell.

Seruius Galba to Cicere. Epist. 30.

THe xvj. of Aprill, on which Pansa should haue bin in Hirtius Campe, with whom I was, (for I went an hun∣dr••d myles to meete him, that he might come the sooner;) Antonius with two L••gions, the second, and the fiue and thirtith, and two Praetorian Cohorts, one, his owne, another of Si••anus, and a part of the extern, or outlandish soul∣diers, came marching towardes vs•• i∣magining that we had onely foure Le∣gions: But Hirtius sent by night, the Martian Legion, which was wont ••o be vnder my command, and two Prae∣tori••n c••horts; to the end we might come more secur••ly to his Campe. At the discouery of Antonius Cauallerie; the Martian Legion, and Praetorian cohorts advanced & prest on. And we of force followed, because we could not retaine them. Antonius had his men at Fo••um Gall••rum; neither would hee hau•• had it knowne, th••t he h••d the Le∣gions•• onely he made a shew, of his Cauallerie, and of some light armed t••oupes. When P••nsa s••w the Legion aduance w••thout his leaue, he comman∣ded that two Legions of new souldier•• should follow them Wh••n we had pas∣sed

t••e narrow straights of the marishes and woods, we order'd a squadron of twelue cohorts. The two Legions were yet scarce come v••, when Antonius conducted his people out of the Bor∣rough, and without delay came to an assault. At the beginning, they sought so, that they could not on either side haue fought more fiercely. But the right wing, wherein I was, with eyght co∣horts of the Martian Legion, at the ••irst ch••rge, put to rout, the thirtie fifth Le∣gion of Antonius, ••o that from the place where the fight began, it pursued them aboue halfe a myle. Whereupon the Cauallery intending to inu••ron or hem our wing abo••t, I began to retire, and to oppose my light armed, to the Mo∣rish horse, to the end they might not as∣saile our men in the rere-gard. In the meane while I perceiued, that I was in the middest of Antonius troupes, and that behind, Antonius himselfe, was not farre of. I presently spur••ed towa••des that fresh Legion, which came from the Campe, clapping my shield to my B••cke. Antonius troop••s pursued me, and our owne men beganne to throw darts at me: and it was great for••une that I escaped, had not our comp••n••es presently discoue••ed me. Also ••n the way A••m••lia, w••ere Caesars Praeto••••an cohort was, they fought a long ti••e. The left wing, which was very weake,

wherein were two cohorts of the Mar∣tian Legion, and the Praetorian cohort, beganne to retire, being inuironed with the Cauallerie, wherein Antonius is ve∣ry strong. When all our squadrons were retired, I my selfe also began to retire vnto the Campe. Antonius as Conque∣rour, thought he might haue ceased on our Tents: whereunto being come, he there lost many of his men, and did o∣therwise no good. When Hirtius heard of this successe, with twentie olde co∣horts, he came and assailed Antonius, as he returned to his Campe: and hew∣ed all his men in peeces, and put them to flight, in the same place, where they fought at Forum Gallorum. Antonius foure houres after Sunne-setting, with his Corne••s retired to his tents at Mu∣tina. Hirtius betooke him to those lod∣gings from whence Pansa issued; where he had le••t two Legions, which were confronted by Antonius. And so An∣tonius hath lost the greatest part of his old soul••ie••s; but not without some weakening of our P••ae••orian C••horts, and the Ma••tian Legion. We won two Aegles, and three••core colours of An∣tonius; the victory was ours. This twentith of Aprill•• From the Campe. Farewell.

Caius Asinius Pollio to Cicero. Epist. 31.

YOu need not maruaile, that I haue not written any thing vnto you, a∣bout the Common-wealth, since the warre beganne. For ••he Castulonensian forest, which hath euer staied our posts, though it be now fuller of theeues then euer; yet procures it not so much delay, as they doe, who being dispersed in all quarte••s, by the one, & other side, seeke after Postes, and detaine them. For which cause, if letters had not bin con∣ueyed by Sea, I could haue knowne of nothing, that passed with you. Now, hauing found opportunitie, in that they begin to goe by sea, I will very willing∣ly, and as oft as I can write vnto you. There is no feare that I should be mo∣ued to discourse of his workes, who, though there be none, that can abide to see him, yet is he not so hated of men as he deserueth. For I so abhorre him, that I account euery thing odious, in which he hath a finger: and my nature, & studies draw me to a desire of peace, and l••bertie. Whereupon, I often bit∣terly bewayled that beg••nning of the ciuill warre. But being enforced to be∣take my selfe, to one of the parts, for I had great enemies of all sides: I fled that

Campe, wherein I knew I could ••ot be secure, from the complots of mine ene∣mie. Being driuen thither, whither I would not: not to be in the number of the last, I couragiously exposed my selfe to daungers. But because Caesar, in so great a Fortune, hauing knowne me but a little before, held me in that esteeme he held his auncientest familiars, I lo∣ued him with the greatest affection and fidelitie I could. Those things which I could discharge according to mine owne minde, I so performed, that euery honest man commended me: and that which was imposed on me, I effected after such a fashion, as it was well knowne, that I did it as constrained, and against mine owne inclination. The hatred of which actions, vniustly borne me, might well teach me, how faire a thing libertie was, and hovv vn∣happie that life, which is led vnder an Aristocracie. And therefore if now men striue, that once againe, euery thing should be reduced vnder a Monarchie: whosoeuer hee bee, I protest my selfe an enemie to him: neither is there any daunger, from which I withdrew my selfe, in the prosecu••ion of libertie; or whither, I seeke not to be sent. But the Consulls, neyther by the Senates decree, nor by their owne letters, gaue me commission what I

s••ould doe. For I at the last receiued but one letter after the xiij•• of Ma••ch, from Pansa; wherein he aduised me to write to the Sena••e, that I remaine at his command with the A••mie. Which vvas nothing to the purpose; Lepi••us a••••irming in his publick declamations, an•• writing to euery one, that he ••tood fo•• Anteni••••: For with what prouision in his despigh••, could I conduct the Le∣gions through his Prouince? Or, if I had p••ssed ••he test, could I also fl••e ouer the Alpes, whi••h were garded by his peo••le? Besides, letters co••ld by no mean••s, ••aue had sec••••e pass••••e. F••r in infinite places, men lay hold o•• th•• curtie••'s, and they are also det•••••••••• by Lepi••••••: No man can 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••r∣duba, spe••ki••g to the A••mie, I spoke this•• tha•• I was not to resi••••e th•• P••o¦uince, bu•• to him, that by the S••nat••s order was come ••or that pu••pose. For, to ••ssigne ou••r the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 L••gion, how grea•• ••••stance was made vnto me, I ••annot suffici••••••••y set downe in wri∣ting: the which i•• I had r••signed, I knew how mu••h more weake •• h••d re∣m••in'd ••or ••he ••eruice of the Common-wealth. For, do•• no•• im••gine, that any great••r courage•• or expedi••ion i•• fight can be ••equir'd, then 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in this Legion Wherf••re, reta••ne this opinion of me, that I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 inf••n••tely desi••e peace; (••or certai••••ly I wish the p••ese••uation of all

Cittizens) and next of all, that I am prepared to restore the cōmon-wealth, and my selfe to libertie. Whereas you write that you hold my domesticall ac∣quaintance, in the number of yours: it pleaseth me beyond your owne valua∣tion. And yet I enuie him, that he walks and iests with you. You'le demand, how much I esteeme of this? if euer I be per∣mitted to liue in a reposed life, you shall k••ow it. For I will not start an inch from you. I much wo••der, that you wrote not vnto me; wh••••her re∣maining in the Prouince, o•• leading mine Armie into Iealie, I might giu•• best satisfaction to the commonwealth. For my part, though it be mor•• se••u••e, and lesse labourious to remaine: neuer∣thelesse, because I see, that in these trou∣blesōe times, you haue much more n••••d of Legiōs, then of Prouinces; especi••lly which may be recouered, withou•• an•• trauaile; I haue propounded at this time, to depart with my forces. You shall hereafter vnderstand all, by the letters, which I haue written to Pansa: for I haue sent you a copie of them. The xvi. of March: from Corduba. Fare∣well.

Caius Asinius Pollio to Cicero. Epist. 32.

BAlbus the Quaestor, by recouering publicke duties, hauing amassed together, a great qu••ntitie of readie coyne; a great weight of gold, and a greater of silue••, without ••o much as disbursing to the ••ouldiers their pay; still, and clo••ely ••••pa••••ed ••••om G••des: and for the space of 〈…〉〈…〉, be••ng detained 〈…〉〈…〉 the first of 〈…〉〈…〉 to Bo∣gud's ki••gdome, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 well f••••ni∣shed with mone•• 〈…〉〈…〉 be••••g, whether he will re••urne to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 o•• to Rome, (for vpon euer•• b••••st 〈◊〉〈◊〉 nevves, he shamefully alters his 〈…〉〈…〉) I doe not yet know. Bu•• 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••r∣ging the companions o•• ••h•• people of Rome; besides the••ts•• & ••••••ines; he h••th also don these things ••hat is (as he was wont to boast) the sa•••••• that Caius Caesar did. In the publick fest••u••••ies that he ce∣lebrated at Gades; hee brought in, He∣rennius Gallus, the Comedian, the last day of the shewes, giuing him a ring of gold, to set in the foureteenth degree: (for so many seuerall degrees had he made, for the ranking of the knights.) He prorogued the Quatuor virat: The solemne elections of two

yeares, he dispatcht in two dayes: that is, he created them to be officers, whom he thought good: he called home the b••nished men•• not of these times, but of those, when the Senate was hewen in peeces, and expel••ed by seditiou•• per∣sons, S••x••us ••a••rus being vice consull. But this he did not af••er Caes••rs exam∣ple. For in his sports, he repre••ented his voyage in a Com••die, wh••n he went to assaile L••cius L••ntulus the Consull and moreouer in the recitall thereof, he wept, as mou••d at the me••oriall of his execut••ons. A••te••wards, i•• the encoun∣te••s o•• the Fencers, because on Fadius, Pompei's s••uldier, hauing ••wi••e fough•• with••ut reward, bei••g vrged by ano∣ther into the listes, ••t his requ••st would not fi••ht; and made his ••••fuge to the people: Fi••st he set Gaull••sh horsemen against the p••ople, (••or he had stones cast at him, when Fadiu•• was dra••ne by force) ••••t••rw••rds, drag••ing him away, within 〈…〉〈…〉 put him in a pit, and burnt hi•• ••••••ue At whi••h time he ha∣uing di••••d, b••re footed, vnbraced, with his hands b••••••nd him, he stru••ting, walked vp and dow••e; and, to that poore w••••tch, who 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sayd; I am a ••i••tizen of R••m••, he made answer; Now goe, c••••u•• f••••ou•• of the people. Besides this, he c••st vnto the wild beasts R••nare Cittizens. And amongst th••se a certaine out-cryer, a man ver•••• well

knowne in Hisp••li••, he gaue to be torne asunder by the same Beasts; for no o¦ther cause, but that he was deformed. I haue had to doe with this monster. But when we be together, we will talke of him more a•• large. Now, more to the purpose; ordaine what I should do. I haue three Legions of valiant souldi∣ers. One of which, that is, the eight and twen••ith, Antonius in the beginning of the warre, hauing called it to him, with this promise, that the same day it arriued in his Campe, he would giue them fiue hundred [Romane] pence a man: and in victory; the same rewards, as to his owne Legions. Which lar∣gesses, would haue beene in••inite, and beyond all measure. It being very de∣sirous to haue gone to him, I detained it, [but] hardly vndoubtedly. Neither could I haue detained them, if I had had them all in one place; considering that some of those cohorts mu••ined, though they were remote, one from an∣other. The other Legions, he hath not ceased, to incite by letters, and large promises. As also Lepidus, hath vrged me both by his owne, and Antonius letters, to send vnto them the thirtieth Legion. Whereupon, if this Armie which I haue, I would neither sell for rewards, nor diminish, for feare of those daungers, of which, Antonius, and Le∣pidus, remaining Conquerours, I m••ght

be in iealousie. you may well iudge, that it was by me detained, and reserued for the seruice of the Commonwealth, and [you may] hold for most certaine, that I would haue performed whatsoeuer you had commanded me to doe, per∣ceiuing I had done that, which you im∣posed vpon me. For, I haue kept the Prouince in quiet, and the armie vnder my power. I neuer went beyond the extent of my Prouince, to goe any whither. I neuer sent a souldier into any part, not onely of the Legions, but not so much as of strangers, or those that haue colleagued themselues: and, if I found any horsem••n stealing away, or parting, I haue punished him. For all which actions, I shall thinke I haue re∣ceiued a great g••erdon, if the Com∣mon-wealth continue. But if it, and the greater part of the Senate, had well knowne me, I might ere this, haue done them greater seruice. I haue sent that Epistle to you, which I wrote to Balbus, while he was yet in the Prouince. In like manner, the Comedie, if you please to read it, call for it from Gallus Corne∣lius, my friend. This seuenth of Iune, from Cor••uba. Farewell.

Caius Asinius Pollio to Cicero. Epist. 33.

LEpidus, by hauing detain'd my posts for nine dayes, was the occasion, that I had more late aduertisement of the battailes fought vnder Mutina; al∣though we ought to desire, that the newes of so great a losse to the Com∣mon-wealth should arriue very slow∣ly; especially to them, that can no wayes helpe vs, nor giue vs any reme∣die. And I would to God, that by the same decree of the Senate, with which you called Plancus, and Lepidus into I∣talie, you had likewise imposed vpon me to come thither. Vndoubtedly the Common-wealth had no•• receiued a wound so dangerous. Whereat, if any at this present reioyce, for it seemes that the Captaines, and old souldiers of Cae∣sars partie are dead: neuerthelesse, they must afterwards needs lament, when they shall behold the ruine of Italie. For the very strength and race of good souldiers is extinguished; if the nevves we heare be in any part true. And I knew it euidently, that if I had ioyned with Lepidus, I should wonderfully haue assisted the Common-wealth. For whereas he hunge off, and was doub••∣full, what part to cleaue vnto, I would

by all meanes haue perswaded him, to haue resolued on a course, especially with the ayde of Plancus. But he wri∣ting vnto me such letters, as you shall peruse; and like to the open speeches, which they say, he vttered at Na••bona; it was necessarie, I should draw him on with fai••e words, if I meant to get pro∣uision, marching through his Prouince. Besides this, if the battaile had beene fought before I had effected my deter∣mination, I doubted that my good in∣tention might by mine aduersaries haue been discouered, & misconstrued; consi∣dering the acquaintance I haue had with Antonius: which notwithstanding, was no greater then what Plancus had also with him. Whereupon, at Gades, in the moneth of Aprill, I embarqued two messengers, in two ships, and I wrote vnto you, to the Consulls, and to Octa∣uian, that you would informe me, how I might be best seruiceable to the com∣mon-wealth. But according to my ac∣compt, on the same day that Pansa ioy∣ned battaile; on the very same, the ships set out from Gades: For since the Winter, there was no setting of Saile before that day. And in truth not sup∣posing, that any ciuill tumults would haue growne, with a setled mind, I had bille••t••d my Legions in Lusitania; to the end they might lie there al y^e winter. But both of them after such a manner

sought to fight, as if their greatest feare had beene, that the warre could not be ended, without the vtter ruine of the Common wealth But, if the••e were oc∣casion of hast. Then, I see that Hirtius in al things demean'd himselfe, like a most valiant Capta••ne. For these things were written and certified vnto me, out of Gallia, which is in Lepidus gouernment: that P••nsa's Armie was hewen in pee∣ces; Pansa himselfe slaine, with manie wounds; the Martian Legion destroyed in the same battaile; together w^t Lucius Fabatus, Caius Peduceus, & Decimus Carsu∣lenus. Then, that in Hirtius battaile, bo••h the fourth Legion, and generally all those of Antinius, passed the edge of the sword•• In like maner, Hirtiu•• ••ourth Legion, hauing ceas'd vpon Antonius tents, were cut in peeces by the fift Le∣gion: and here also Hirtius, and Pon••ius Aquila perished. And I heare, it is re∣ported, that Octauianus was there sl••ine: which newes if they be true, (as God ••orbid,) I shall be infinitely sorrowfull. Mor••ouer, that Marcus A••tonius disho∣nourab••••e left the si••ge of Mutina: but that the Cauallerie, and three armed legions vnder their Standards, & on•• of Publius Vagienus: with a great ••ūber of di••a••med men, and that Ven••idius al••o is vnited with him, with three Legions, y^e seuenth, the ••ight, and the ninth: and th••t if L••pidus faile him, in whom he

hath great hope, he will be take him to his last refuge; and will raise not onely the nations, but euen the very slaues. I vnderstand also, that Parm•• hath beene sacked, & y^t Lucius Antonius possesseth the Alps. Which things if they be true, it is not fit that any of vs, should stand at the gaze, or expect, what the Senate will determine. For euery one that af∣fects the safetie of the Empire, or finally the Romaine name, is enforced to giue present succour; seeing Brutus, as I heare, hath no more, but seuenteene cohorts, and two imperfect Legions of new souldiers, which Antonius had en∣tertained. And yet I make no doubt, but all the remainder of Hirtius Armie will make head with him. For of leuy∣ing of new forces, I thinke there is no great hope: especially there being no∣thing more dangerous, then to giue Antonius time, to be refortified: and the season of the yeare, the rather in∣uites me thereunto, because the corne is either in the fields, or in the villages. Therefore in my first letters, I will set downe, what I meane to doe. For I will neither be wanting, to the Common-wealth, nor suruiue her. But yet I grieue without measure, that my iourney will be so long, and dangerous; for all ad∣uertisements come to me aboue fortie dayes after the execution. Farewell.

Marcus L••pidus, Imperator the second time, & Pontifex Maxi∣mus, to the Senate, and people of Rome. Epist. 34.

IF you, with your children be in health, I am glad: my selfe also am so: I call to witnesse, both gods and men, (O conscript Fathers) of what intenti∣on, and affection I haue euer beene to∣wards the Common-wealth, and how light I haue set by all other things, in respect of common libertie, and saf••tie. The which I had very shortly made manifest vnto you, if Fortune had not by force diuer••ed me from the dissigne, I had intended. For all the Armie com∣ming to a mutinie, would maintaine their auncient custome, in prese••uing Cittizens, and embracing peace with all men: and to say truth, it hath enfor∣ced me, to vndertake the protection of the safetie, and preseruation of so great a multitude of Romane Cittizens. Wherefore, I beseech you, and entreat the gods (O conscript Fathers) that, laying apart all particular hatred, you will prouide for the State of the Com∣mon-wealth, and not repute our cle∣mencie, and the mercie of our Armie in a ciuill discord, for disloyaltie. And, if you haue respect to the honour, and

safetie of all men; greater benefit will redound both to you, and the Com∣mon-wealth. The xxix. of May, from Pons Argenteus. Farewell.

Marcus Lepidus Imperator the second time, Pontifex Maxi∣mus, to Cicero. Ep. 35.

IF you be in health, I am glad, for so am I also: Hauing heard, that Antoni∣us, with his forces, sending Lucius An∣tonius, before with a part of the Caual∣lerie, came into my Prouince; I depar∣ted with my companies from that place, where Rhodanus meetes with o∣ther streames, and tooke my way to∣wardes them. And so by a continuall march I came to Forum Vecontij: and a little beyond, along the riuer Argentea I encamped against the two Antonies. Publius Ventidius ioyned with him his three Legions, and pitched his Tents aboue me. He had before that, the se∣cond Legion, and out of other Legi∣ons a great multitude, but disarmed. He hath a strong Cauallerie: for he lost but few of them, in the battaile: in so much, as they are aboue thirtie thou∣sand horse. So that diuers of his soul∣diers, both foote and horse, departing

from him, are come to my campe. And day by day, his men diminish•• Si••••nus, and Culeo haue left him. We, although mightily offended with them, because they went to Antonius against our wi••l: neuerthelesse, out of our humanitie, and loue, we haue thought good to saue them. And yet we employ them not, nor doe we keepe them in our Campe: nor haue we giuen vnto them any com∣mand. As touching this warre, wee will neither be wanting to the Senate, nor Common-wealth. Of what wee haue since that time done, we will ad∣uertise you•• Although at all times, be∣tweene vs, for the familiaritie we haue had together, there haue passed great demonstrations, and effects of loue, ••yther of ••s striuing to exceed the o∣ther: Yet, I make no doubt, but that in so great, and suddaine a commo∣tion of the Common-wealth, by ma∣lignant mindes, some things haue bin reported to you of me, altogether ••alse, and vnbeseem••ng me; which haue much mooued your minde, out of the affect on you beare to the Common-wealth. And ••o such relatio••s; I am cer∣tified by my Agents, that you gaue no great credit; nor thought you good, so lightly to beleeue them. Which things, as they des••rue, are most acceptable vnto mee: as also I remember ••hose fauours, which in times past, moo∣ued

out of loue, you performed, to encrease my honour and reputation Whereof I will neuer be forgetfull. I request you, my Cicero, of all fauour; if, in my life, and care, which I haue al∣wayes in times past, most diligently employed in the gouernment of the Common-wealth, you haue knowne me for such an one, as is fit I should be; that you would expect the same, and also better pe••fo••mance hereafter: and the more I am bound vnto you for benefits receiued, the more studious be you, with your authoritie to de∣fend me. Fare∣well.