Latin Texts & Translations

DXXII (F XIII, 28 a)

TO SERVIUS SULPICIUS RUFUS (IN ACHAIA) ROME

I DO not think, on the one hand, that the Lacedaemonians doubt being sufficiently recommended to your honour and justice by their own and their ancestors' reputation, and I, on the other, knowing you as well as I do, had no doubt of the rights and deserts of the several nations being thoroughly well known to you. Accordingly, when Philippus the Lacedaemonian begged me to recommend the city to you, though I remembered that I was under all sorts of obligations to it, I nevertheless answered that Lacedaemonians needed no recommendation with you. Accordingly, I would have you believe that, considering the disturbed state of the times, I look upon all the cities of Achaia as being happy in having you as their governor; and that I also think that, knowing thoroughly as you do not only our own records but also all those of Greece, you are and will be a friend to the Lacedaemonians. Wherefore I only ask this of you, that, when you do for the Lacedaemonians what your honour, high position, and justice shall demand, you should let them know—if you think it right—that you are not other-wise than glad to find that what you are doing is gratifying to me also. For it affects my loyalty that they should think that I am attentive to their interests. I again and again urge this upon you with warmth.