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 *lence and unsurpassed gentleness I felt my sorrow even heavier than before, to think that my want of prudence was the cause of her being in a position far removed from that which her dutiful affection and high character might claim. It is in my mind to send our son to Cæsar, and Gnæus Sallustius with him. If he starts I will let you know. Take great care of your health. Good-bye.

14 June.

CCCCXXXII (, 18)

TO ATTICUS  (AT  ROME)

About Cæsar's departure from Alexandria there is as yet no rumour, and, on the contrary, there is an opinion that he is in serious difficulties. Accordingly, I shall not send my son, as I had intended, and I beg you to get me out of this place. For any punishment is less galling than a continuance here. On this subject I have written both to Antony and to Balbus and Oppius. For whether there is to be war in Italy, or whether he will employ his fleet, in either case this is the last place for me. Perhaps it will be both: certainly there will be one or the other. I understood clearly from Oppius's remarks, which you reported to me, what the anger of that party against me is: but I beg you to divert it. I expect nothing at all now that is not unhappy. But nothing can be more abominable than the place in which I now am. Wherefore I would like you to speak both to Antony and to the Cæsarians with you, and get the matter through for me as well as you can, and write to me on all subjects as soon as possible. Good-bye.

19 June.