CCCCXXXVII (F XIV, 13)
TO TERENTIA (AT ROME)
Brundisium, 10 July
In reference to what I said to you in my last about divorcing
Tullia's husband, I don't know what force he has at his back
at such a time as this, or what power of stirring up the populace.
If he can be dangerous when roused to anger, do
nothing. But yet it is possible that he will take the first step.[1]
But you must judge after a review of the whole business,
and do what you think least distressing in a most distressing
business. Good-bye.
10 July.
CCCCXXXVIII (A XI, 19)
TO ATTICUS (AT ROME)
Brundisium, 22 July
As I had the opportunity of giving a letter to your servants
I would not pass it by, though I have nothing to say. You
yourself write to me more rarely than you used, and more
briefly: I suppose because you have nothing to say which
you suppose that I can read or hear with pleasure. But
indeed I would have you write, whatever and of what kind
soever it may be. The fact is that there is only one thing
capable of exciting a wish in me—the chance of negociation
for peace: and of that I have absolutely no hope. But
- ↑ Cicero, as usual, is distracted by seeing acutely the dangers on both sides. He wishes for the divorce, but can Dolabella make it unpleasant for them if it comes from their side? If so, best not to do anything. But on the other hand, if they don't move, perhaps he will, and that would be safer for them, but less dignified.
