Page:Correspondence of Marcus Cornelius Fronto volume 1 Haines 1919.djvu/209

 until, as M. Porcius says, the dead of night falls swiftly down. But why do I string together these Masurian banalities, when I started with saying I should write a few words only? So farewell, most kindly of masters, most honourable of consuls, and let your love be the measure of your longing for me.

143 A.D.

consul to his own Caesar.

Lucky brother of mine to have seen you those two days! But I stick fast in Rome bound with golden fetters, looking forward to the first of September as the superstitious to the star, at sight of which to break their fast. Farewell, Caesar, glory of your country and the Roman name. My Lord, farewell.

143 A.D.

To my Lord.

I have sent my Gratia to keep your mother's birthday with her, and bidden her stay there till I come. The very moment, however, that I have laid down my consulship with the customary oath I shall climb into my carriage and fly off to you. Meanwhile, I have pledged my word that my Gratia shall run no risk of starvation. For your mother will 145 VOL. I.