To Q. Cornificius in Africa
editRome, after 19 September and perhaps after 2 October 44 BC
editCicero says hello to Cornificius
We are waging a war here with a gladiator-fellow, the most worthless of all, our colleague, Antony, but on terms not equal, with words against weapons. But he's also making speeches about you, and not without punishment; for he will know whom he's attacked. However, I believe that everything that has happened is being written to you by others; from me you should learn what will happen, and of these a conjecture is now difficult.
Everything has been overwhelmed, nor do good men have a leader, and our tyrant-killers are away at the end of the world. Pansa both feels well and speaks bravely; our Hirtius is recovering rather slowly. I don't at all know what will happen; the one hope, however, is that the Roman people will at last be like their ancestors. I will certainly not fail the Republic, and whatever happens, from which my fault is away, I will bear with a brave heart. I will truly do this as much as I can: I will protect your reputation and worth.