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Rome. We cannot, therefore, trace the opinions of Cicero on the altered situation, and do not even know how far he was admitted to share the counsels of the Optimates or of Pompey.

Milo was candidate for the consulship during the year 53 B.C., and Clodius for the prætorship, and the two heartily renewed their old faction-fights. Pompey's destined father-in-law, Scipio Metellus, was in competition with Milo, and this circumstance now inclined Pompey to favour Clodius. Bribery and intimidation were carried on to a reckless extent on both sides. No election could be held, and the next year began as usual with an interregnum. Milo and Clodius roamed the streets, each with his armed gang, and leaders and followers alike carried their lives in their hands.

On the evening of the 7th of January, 52 B.C., the two came into collision on the Appian Way, some ten miles from Rome. The victory in this "Battle of Bovillæ" remained with Milo, and Clodius was left dead on the road. The body was found the same night and conveyed to the city. The death of Clodius caused intense excitement amongst the lowest classes in Rome. The corpse was seized upon and burned by a tumultuous mob in the Forum. By accident or design the flames spread and destroyed the Curia Hostilia, the ordinary meeting-place of the Senate. Stormy discussions ensued in the House; Milo was fiercely attacked by the kinsmen of Clodius, and was defended with equal rigour by Cicero, Cato, and Marcus