Latin Texts & Translations

DCCCLXXXIX (F XI, 24)

TO DECIMUS BRUTUS (AT EPOREDIA) ROME, 6 JUNE

I tell you what: I used to be somewhat irritated at the brevity of your letters. Now I think myself over-talkative.

I will therefore imitate you. What a volume in a few words—that you are quite well and will take measures to be daily better; ^[Note] that Lepidus is well-disposed, and that we ought to have confidence in their armies! If I had been nervous, that letter would still have wiped away all fear from my heart. But, as you advise, I have taken the bit between my teeth: for when I rested every hope on you, in spite of your being closely invested, what do you think that I do now? I desire now, Brutus, to make over to you my sleepless watchfulness, though without diminishing my own firm policy. You say that, if the enemy permits it, you will stay in Italy till you get a letter from me. You are not wrong: for much happens at Rome: but if the war can be finished by your arrival on the scene, let that be your first care. The money that was most readily available has been decreed to you. You have a very warm friend in Servius : ^[Note] I never fail to support you.

6 June.