[102]C. Curio, the elder, defended Clodius. He had bought the villa of Marius (a native of Arpinum) at Baiæ.[103]Q. Marcius Rex married a sister of Clodius, and dying, left him no legacy.[104]L. Afranius.[105]Readingdeterioris histrionis similis, "like an inferior actor."[106]Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, married to Cato's sister. ConsulB.C.54. A strong aristocrat and vehement opponent of Cæsar.[107]Aufidius Lurco had apparently proposed his law on bribery between the time of the notice of the elections (indictio) and the elections themselves, which was against a provision of theleges Ælia et Fufia. What his breach of the law was in entering on his office originally we do not know: perhaps some neglect of auspices, or his personal deformity.[108]I.e.to Quintus Cicero, now proprætor in Asia, who apparently wished his brother-in-law to come to Asia in some official capacity.[109]Some epigrams or inscriptions under a portrait bust of Cicero in the gymnasium of Atticus's villa at Buthrotum. Atticus had a taste for such compositions. See Nepos,Att.18; Pliny,N. H.35, § 11.[110]Cicero had defended Archias, and Thyillus seems also to have been intimate with him: but he says Archias, after complimenting the Luculli by a poem, is now doing the same to the Cæcilii Metelli. The "Cæcilian drama" is a reference to the old dramatist, Cæcilius Statius (ob.B.C.168).[111]Of Amaltheia, nurse of Zeus in Crete, there were plenty of legends. Atticus is making in his house something like what Cicero had made in his, and called his academia or gymnasium. That of Atticus was probably also a summer house or study, with garden, fountains, etc., and a shrine or statue of Amaltheia.[112]Cicero is evidently very anxious as to the misunderstanding between Quintus and his brother-in-law Atticus, caused, as he hints, or at any rate not allayed, by Pomponia. The letter is very carefully written, without the familiar tone and mixture of jest and earnest common to most of the letters to Atticus.[113]At the end of thevia Egnatia, which started from Dyrrachium.[114]The election in question is that to be held inB.C.60 for the consulship ofB.C.59. Cæsar and Bibulus were elected, and apparently were the only two candidates declared as yet. They were, of course, extremists, and Lucceius seems to reckon on getting in by forming a coalition with either one or the other, and so getting the support of one of the extreme parties, with the moderates, for himself. The bargain eventually made was between Lucceius and Cæsar, the former finding the money. But the Optimates found more, and carried Bibulus. Arrius is Q. Arrius the orator (see Index). C. Piso is the consul ofB.C.67.[115]Reading (mainly with Schutz)animus præsens et voluntas, tamen etiam atque etiam ipsa medicinam refugit. The verbrefugitis very doubtful, but it gives nearly the sense required. Cicero is ready to be as brave and active as before, but the state will not do its part. It has, for instance, blundered in the matter of the law against judicial corruption. The senate offended the equites by proposing it, and yet did not carry the law. I thinkanimusandvoluntasmust refer to Cicero, not the state, to which in his present humour he would not attribute them.[116]The temple of Iuventas was vowed by M. Livius after the battle of the Metaurus (B.C.207), and dedicated inB.C.191 by C. Licinius Lucullus, games being established on the anniversary of its dedication (Livy, xxi. 62; xxxvi. 36). It is suggested, therefore, that some of the Luculli usually presided at these games, but on this occasion refused, because of the injury done by C. Memmius, who was curule ædile.[117]By Agamemnon and Menelaus Cicero means Lucius and Marcus Lucullus; the former Memmius had, as tribune inB.C.66-65, opposed in his demand for a triumph, the latter he has now injured in the person of his wife.[118]A man who wassui iuriswas properly adopted before thecommitia curiata, now represented by thirty lictors. What Herennius proposed was that it should take place by a regularlex, passed by thecomitia tributa. The object apparently was to avoid the necessity of the presence of a pontifex and augur, which was required at thecomitia curiata. The concurrent law by the consul would come before thecomitia centuriata. The adopter was P. Fonteius, a very young man.[119]L. Afranius, the other consul.[120]M. Lollius Palicanus, "a mere mob orator" (Brutus, §223).[121]Thetoga pictaof a triumphator, which Pompey, by special law, was authorized to wear at the games. Cicero uses the contemptuous diminutive,togula.[122]To be absent from the census without excuse rendered a man liable to penalties. Cicero will therefore put up notices in Atticus's various places of business or residence of his intention to appear in due course. To appear just at the end of the period was, it seems, in the case of a man of business, advisable, that he might be rated at the actual amount of his property, no more or less.[123]A special title given to the Ædui on their application for alliance. Cæsar,B. G.i. 33.[124]The migration of the Helvetii did not actually begin tillB.C.58. Cæsar tells us in the first book of hisCommentarieshow he stopped it.[125]ConsulB.C.69, superseded in Crete by PompeyB.C.65. TriumphedB.C.62.[126]PrætorB.C.63, defended by Cicero in an extant oration.[127]Cn. Cornelius Lentulus Clodianus, consul inB.C.72. Cicero puns on the name Lentulus fromlens(pulse, φακή), and quotes a Greek proverb for things incongruous. See Athenæus, 160 (from theNecuiaof Sopater):Ἴθακος Ὀδυσσεὺς, τὸ á¼Îºá½¶ τῇ φακῇ μÏÏονπάÏεστι· θάÏσει, θυμÎ.[128]B.C.133, the year before the agrarian law of Tiberius Gracchus. The law of Gracchus had not touched the public land in Campania (the old territory of Capua). The object of this clause (which appears repeatedly in those ofB.C.120 and 111, see Bruns,Fontes Iuris, p. 72) is to confine the allotment ofager publicusto such land as had become so subsequently,i.e., to land made "public" principally by the confiscations of Sulla.[129]That is, he proposed to hypothecate thevectigaliafrom the new provinces formed by Pompey in the East for five years.[130]The consulship. The bribery at Afranius's election is asserted in LetterXXI.[131]The day of the execution of the Catilinarian conspirators.[132]Epicharmus, twice quoted by Polybius, xviii. 40; xxxi. 21. νᾶφε καὶ μÎμνας' ἀπιστεῖν, ἄÏθÏα ταῦτα τῶν φÏενῶν.[133]Pedariiwere probably those senators who had not held curule office. They were not different from the other senators in point of legal rights, but as ex-magistrates were asked for theirsententiafirst, they seldom had time to do anything but signify by word their assent to one or other motion, or to cross over to the person whom they intended to support.[134]P. Servilius Vatia Isauricus, son of the conqueror of the Isaurians. As he had not yet been a prætor, he would be called on after theconsularesandprætorii. He then moved a new clause to the decree, and carried it.[135]The decree apparently prevented the recovery of debts from alibera civitasin the Roman courts. Atticus would therefore have to trust to the regard of the Sicyonians for their credit.[136]A son must be hard up for something to say for himself if he is always harping on his father's reputation; and so must I, if I have nothing but my consulship. That seems the only point in the quotation. I do not feel that there is any reference to praise of his father in Cicero's own poem. There are two versions of the proverb:τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ κακοδαίμονες υἱοίandτίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ εá½Î´Î±Î¯Î¼Î¿Î½ÎµÏ‚ υἱοί.[137]Contained in LetterXXII, pp.46-47.[138]Readingtibiformihi, as Prof. Tyrrell suggests.[139]ΣπάÏτην ἔλαχες κείνην κοσμεῖ. "Sparta is your lot, do it credit," a line of Euripides which had become proverbial.[140]οἱ μὲν παÏ' οá½Î´Îν εἰσι, τοῖς δ' οá½Î´ÎµÎ½ μÎλει. Rhinton, a dramatist,circaB.C.320-280 (of Tarentum or Syracuse).[141]See pp.52,56,65.[142]See p.57.[143]Thelex Cincia(B.C.204) forbade the taking of presents for acting as advocate in law courts.[144]Nep.Att.c. 18.[145]Atticus seems to have seen a copy belonging to some one else at Corfu. Cicero explains that he had kept back Atticus's copy for revision.[146]Cicero evidently intends Atticus to act as a publisher. Hislibrariiwill make copies. See p. 32,note 1.[147]The passage in brackets is believed by some, not on very good grounds, to be spurious. Otho is L. Roscius Otho, the author of the law as to the seats in the theatre of the equites. The "proscribed" are those proscribed by Sulla, their sons being forbidden to hold office, a disability which Cicero maintained for fear of civil disturbances. Seein Pis.§§ 4-5.[148]Pulchellus,i.e., P. Clodius Pulcher, the diminutive of contempt.[149]Where he had been as quæstor. Hera is said to be another name for Hybla. Some readheri, "only yesterday."[150]Clodius is shewing off his modesty. It was usual for persons returning from a province to send messengers in front, and to travel deliberately, that their friends might pay them the compliment of going out to meet them. Entering the city after nightfall was another method of avoiding a public reception. See Suet.Aug.53.[151]See p. 37,note 3.[152]Clodia, wife of the consul Metellus. See p. 22,note.[153]We don't know who this is; probably acavaliere serventeof Clodia's.[154]I.e., in the business of her brother Clodius's attempt to get the tribuneship.[155]Though Cæsar has been mentioned before in regard to his candidature for the consulship, and in connexion with the Clodius case, this is the first reference to him as a statesman. He is on the eve of his return from Spain, and already is giving indication of his coalition with Pompey. His military success in Spain first clearly demonstrated his importance.[156]During the meeting of the senate at the time of the Catilinarian conspiracy (2Phil.§ 16).[157]The consul Cæcilius Metellus was imprisoned by the tribune Flavius for resisting his land law (Dio, xxxvii. 50).[158]M. Favonius, an extreme Optimate.Ille Catonis æmulus(Suet.Aug.13). He had a bitter tongue, but a faithful heart (Plut.Pomp.60, 73; Vell. ii 73). He did not get the prætorship (which he was now seeking) tillB.C.49. He was executed after Philippi (Dio. 47, 49).[159]P. Scipio Nasica Metellus Pius, the future father-in-law of Pompey, who got the prætorship, was indicted forambitusby Favonius.[160]Ἀπολλόνιος Μόλων of Alabanda taught rhetoric at Rhodes. Cicero had himself attended his lectures. He puns on the name Molon andmolæ, "mill at which slaves worked."[161]See pp.57,60.[162]Readingdiscessionibus, "divisions in the senate," with Manutius and Tyrrell, notdissentionibus; anddeinde ne, but notstforsi.[163]His study, which he playfully calls by this name, in imitation of that of Atticus. See p.30.[164]See LetterXV, p.25.[165]His translation of thePrognosticsof Aratus.[166]Gaius Octavius, father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia.[167]The roll being unwound as he read and piled on the ground. Dicæarchus of Messene, a contemporary of Aristotle, wrote on "Constitutions" among other things. Procilius seems also to have written on polities.[168]Herodes, a teacher at Athens, afterwards tutor to young Cicero. He seems to have written on Cicero's consulship.[169]These remarks refer to something in Atticus's letter.[170]Gaius Antonius, about to be prosecuted formaiestason his return from Macedonia.[171]P. Nigidius Figulus, a tribune (which dates the letter after the 10th of December). The tribunes had no right of summons (vocatio), they must personally enforce their commands.[172]"The Conqueror,"i.e., Pompey. Aulus's son is L. Afranius.[173]I.e., his military get-up.[174]Cyrus was Cicero's architect; his argument or theory he calls Cyropædeia, after Xenophon's book.[175]He supposes himself to be making a mathematical figure in optics:Mathematical figure in optics.[176]The theory of sight held by Democritus, denounced as unphilosophical by Plutarch (Timoleon, Introd.).[177]Apparently a villa in theSolonius ager, near Lanuvium.[178]The Cornelius Balbus of Gades, whose citizenship Cicero defendedB.C.56 (consulB.C.40). He was Cæsar's close friend and agent.[179]Cicero was apparently not behind the scenes. The coalition with Pompey certainly, and with Crassus probably, had been already made and the terms agreed upon soon after the elections. If Cicero afterwards discovered this it must have shewn him how little he could trust Pompey's show of friendship and Cæsar's candour. Cæsar desired Cicero's private friendship and public acquiescence, but was prepared to do without them.[180]From Cicero's Latin poem on his consulship.[181]εἶς οἰωνός ἄÏιστος ἀμÏνεσθαι πεÏὶ πάτÏης (Hom.Il.xii. 243).[182]A country festival and general holiday. It was aferiæ conceptivæ, and therefore the exact day varied. But it was about the end of the year or beginning of the new year (in Pis.§ 4; Aul. Gell. x. 24; Macrob.Sat.i. 4;ad Att.vii. 5; vii. 7, § 2).[183]Of the persons mentioned, L. Ælius Tubero is elsewhere praised as a man of learning (pro Lig.§ 10); A. Allienus (prætorB.C.49) was a friend and correspondent; M. Gratidius is mentioned inpro Flacco, § 49, as acting in a judicial capacity, and was perhaps a cousin of Cicero's.[184]The class of Romans who have practically become provincials.[185]Rome and its society and interests.[186]Father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia,B.C.60-59. But he seems to refer to his prætorship (B.C.61) at Rome; at any rate, as well as to his conduct in Macedonia.[187]Readingprimum; othersprimus, "his head lictor."[188]That is, if it ends in his death, for Meliodorus of Skepsis was sent by Mithridates to Tigranes to urge him to go to war with Rome, but privately advised him not to do so, and, in consequence, was put to death by Mithridates (Plut.Luc.22). The wordScepsii(Σκηψίου) was introduced by Gronovius for the unintelligible wordSyrpiefound in the MSS., which so often blunder in Greek names.[189]Clodius, alluding to his intrusion into the mysteries.[190]Atticus has asked Cicero for a Latin treatise on geography—probably as a publisher, Cicero being the prince of book-makers—and to that end has sent him the Greek geography of Serapio.[191]In his Formianum or Pompeianum, his villas at Formiæ and Pompeii.[192]An architect, a freedman of Cyrus, of whom we have heard before.[193]The triumvirs. The mission to Egypt was in the affairs of Ptolemy Auletes (father of Cleopatra), who was this year declared a "friend and ally." He soon got expelled by his subjects.[194]Il.vi. 442; xxii. 100. Cicero's frequent expression for popular opinion, or the opinion of those he respects—his Mrs. Grundy.[195]Theophanes, a philosopher of Mitylene, a close friend of Pompey's, in whose house he frequently resided. He took charge of Pompey's wife and children inB.C.48-47.[196]Q. Arrius, an orator and friend of Cæsar's, by whose help he had hoped for the consulship. See p.49.[197]Q. Cæcilius Metellus Nepos (consulB.C.57). His brother, the consul ofB.C.60, had just died and made a vacancy in the college of augurs.[198]A captive brought by Lucullus, who became a friend of Cicero and tutor to his son and nephew.[199]One of the two yearly officers of a colony—they answer to the consuls at Rome. Therefore Cicero means, "I wish I had been a consul in a small colony rather than a consul at Rome."[200]For distribution of land under Cæsar's law. P. Vatinius was a tribune this year, and worked in Cæsar's interests.[201]Theopompus of Chios, the historian (Att.vi. 1, § 12). Born aboutB.C.378. His bitterness censured by Polybius, viii. 11-13.[202]The money due from the treasury to Q. Cicero in Asia. He wants it to be paid in Roman currency (denarii), not in Asiatic coins (cistophori), a vast amount of which Pompey had brought home and deposited in the treasury. So an Indian official might like sovereigns instead of rupees if he could get them.[203]As he was a mansui iuris, Clodius's adoption into a new gens (adrogatio) would have to take place before thecomitia curiata(now represented by thirty lictors), which still retained this formal business. The ceremony required the presence of an augur and a pontifex to hold it. Cicero supposes Pompey and Cæsar as intending to act in that capacity. Pompey, it seems, did eventually attend.[204]One of the twenty commissioners under Cæsar's agrarian law. Cicero was offered and declined a place among them. The "only man," of course, refers to the intrusion on the mysteries.[205]To Egypt.[206]This seems also to refer to the twenty agrarian commissioners, who, according to Mommsen, were divided into committees of five, and were, therefore, spoken of indifferently asquinqueviriandvigintiviri. But it is somewhat uncertain.[207]κατὰ τὸ Ï€Ïακτικόν.[208]Castricius seems to have been anegotiatoror banker in Asia. We don't know what mistake is referred to; probably as to some money transmitted to Pomponia.[209]It is suggested that Aristodemus is some teacher of the two young Ciceros, to whom the young Marcus wishes to apologize for his absence or to promise some study.[210]Perhaps some inscription or other ornament for Atticus's gymnasium in his villa at Buthrotum.[211]A verse from Lucilius. "Young Curio" is the future tribune ofB.C.50, who was bribed by Cæsar, joined him at Ravenna at the end of that year, was sent by him inB.C.49 to Sicily and Africa, and fell in battle with the Pompeians and King Iuba.[212]L. Saufeius, the Epicurean friend of Atticus (see LetterII). He seems to mean, "as indefatigable as Saufeius." But Prof. Tyrrell points out that it might mean, "at the risk of your thinking me as Epicurean and self-indulgent as Saufeius, I say," etc.[213]The bay of Misenum, near which was Cicero's Pompeianum.[214]Q. Cæcilius Bassus, probably quæstor at Ostia. Antium would be in his district.[215]βοῶπις,sc.Clodia. She is to talk to her brother about Cicero. She is "Iuno" perhaps as an enemy—as Bacon called the Duchess of Burgundy Henry VII.'s Iuno—or perhaps for a less decent reason, asconiux sororqueof Publius.[216]Pompey, who was proud of having taken Jerusalem.Traductor ad plebem, said of the magistrate presiding at thecomitiafor adoption.
[102]C. Curio, the elder, defended Clodius. He had bought the villa of Marius (a native of Arpinum) at Baiæ.
[102]C. Curio, the elder, defended Clodius. He had bought the villa of Marius (a native of Arpinum) at Baiæ.
[103]Q. Marcius Rex married a sister of Clodius, and dying, left him no legacy.
[103]Q. Marcius Rex married a sister of Clodius, and dying, left him no legacy.
[104]L. Afranius.
[104]L. Afranius.
[105]Readingdeterioris histrionis similis, "like an inferior actor."
[105]Readingdeterioris histrionis similis, "like an inferior actor."
[106]Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, married to Cato's sister. ConsulB.C.54. A strong aristocrat and vehement opponent of Cæsar.
[106]Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, married to Cato's sister. ConsulB.C.54. A strong aristocrat and vehement opponent of Cæsar.
[107]Aufidius Lurco had apparently proposed his law on bribery between the time of the notice of the elections (indictio) and the elections themselves, which was against a provision of theleges Ælia et Fufia. What his breach of the law was in entering on his office originally we do not know: perhaps some neglect of auspices, or his personal deformity.
[107]Aufidius Lurco had apparently proposed his law on bribery between the time of the notice of the elections (indictio) and the elections themselves, which was against a provision of theleges Ælia et Fufia. What his breach of the law was in entering on his office originally we do not know: perhaps some neglect of auspices, or his personal deformity.
[108]I.e.to Quintus Cicero, now proprætor in Asia, who apparently wished his brother-in-law to come to Asia in some official capacity.
[108]I.e.to Quintus Cicero, now proprætor in Asia, who apparently wished his brother-in-law to come to Asia in some official capacity.
[109]Some epigrams or inscriptions under a portrait bust of Cicero in the gymnasium of Atticus's villa at Buthrotum. Atticus had a taste for such compositions. See Nepos,Att.18; Pliny,N. H.35, § 11.
[109]Some epigrams or inscriptions under a portrait bust of Cicero in the gymnasium of Atticus's villa at Buthrotum. Atticus had a taste for such compositions. See Nepos,Att.18; Pliny,N. H.35, § 11.
[110]Cicero had defended Archias, and Thyillus seems also to have been intimate with him: but he says Archias, after complimenting the Luculli by a poem, is now doing the same to the Cæcilii Metelli. The "Cæcilian drama" is a reference to the old dramatist, Cæcilius Statius (ob.B.C.168).
[110]Cicero had defended Archias, and Thyillus seems also to have been intimate with him: but he says Archias, after complimenting the Luculli by a poem, is now doing the same to the Cæcilii Metelli. The "Cæcilian drama" is a reference to the old dramatist, Cæcilius Statius (ob.B.C.168).
[111]Of Amaltheia, nurse of Zeus in Crete, there were plenty of legends. Atticus is making in his house something like what Cicero had made in his, and called his academia or gymnasium. That of Atticus was probably also a summer house or study, with garden, fountains, etc., and a shrine or statue of Amaltheia.
[111]Of Amaltheia, nurse of Zeus in Crete, there were plenty of legends. Atticus is making in his house something like what Cicero had made in his, and called his academia or gymnasium. That of Atticus was probably also a summer house or study, with garden, fountains, etc., and a shrine or statue of Amaltheia.
[112]Cicero is evidently very anxious as to the misunderstanding between Quintus and his brother-in-law Atticus, caused, as he hints, or at any rate not allayed, by Pomponia. The letter is very carefully written, without the familiar tone and mixture of jest and earnest common to most of the letters to Atticus.
[112]Cicero is evidently very anxious as to the misunderstanding between Quintus and his brother-in-law Atticus, caused, as he hints, or at any rate not allayed, by Pomponia. The letter is very carefully written, without the familiar tone and mixture of jest and earnest common to most of the letters to Atticus.
[113]At the end of thevia Egnatia, which started from Dyrrachium.
[113]At the end of thevia Egnatia, which started from Dyrrachium.
[114]The election in question is that to be held inB.C.60 for the consulship ofB.C.59. Cæsar and Bibulus were elected, and apparently were the only two candidates declared as yet. They were, of course, extremists, and Lucceius seems to reckon on getting in by forming a coalition with either one or the other, and so getting the support of one of the extreme parties, with the moderates, for himself. The bargain eventually made was between Lucceius and Cæsar, the former finding the money. But the Optimates found more, and carried Bibulus. Arrius is Q. Arrius the orator (see Index). C. Piso is the consul ofB.C.67.
[114]The election in question is that to be held inB.C.60 for the consulship ofB.C.59. Cæsar and Bibulus were elected, and apparently were the only two candidates declared as yet. They were, of course, extremists, and Lucceius seems to reckon on getting in by forming a coalition with either one or the other, and so getting the support of one of the extreme parties, with the moderates, for himself. The bargain eventually made was between Lucceius and Cæsar, the former finding the money. But the Optimates found more, and carried Bibulus. Arrius is Q. Arrius the orator (see Index). C. Piso is the consul ofB.C.67.
[115]Reading (mainly with Schutz)animus præsens et voluntas, tamen etiam atque etiam ipsa medicinam refugit. The verbrefugitis very doubtful, but it gives nearly the sense required. Cicero is ready to be as brave and active as before, but the state will not do its part. It has, for instance, blundered in the matter of the law against judicial corruption. The senate offended the equites by proposing it, and yet did not carry the law. I thinkanimusandvoluntasmust refer to Cicero, not the state, to which in his present humour he would not attribute them.
[115]Reading (mainly with Schutz)animus præsens et voluntas, tamen etiam atque etiam ipsa medicinam refugit. The verbrefugitis very doubtful, but it gives nearly the sense required. Cicero is ready to be as brave and active as before, but the state will not do its part. It has, for instance, blundered in the matter of the law against judicial corruption. The senate offended the equites by proposing it, and yet did not carry the law. I thinkanimusandvoluntasmust refer to Cicero, not the state, to which in his present humour he would not attribute them.
[116]The temple of Iuventas was vowed by M. Livius after the battle of the Metaurus (B.C.207), and dedicated inB.C.191 by C. Licinius Lucullus, games being established on the anniversary of its dedication (Livy, xxi. 62; xxxvi. 36). It is suggested, therefore, that some of the Luculli usually presided at these games, but on this occasion refused, because of the injury done by C. Memmius, who was curule ædile.
[116]The temple of Iuventas was vowed by M. Livius after the battle of the Metaurus (B.C.207), and dedicated inB.C.191 by C. Licinius Lucullus, games being established on the anniversary of its dedication (Livy, xxi. 62; xxxvi. 36). It is suggested, therefore, that some of the Luculli usually presided at these games, but on this occasion refused, because of the injury done by C. Memmius, who was curule ædile.
[117]By Agamemnon and Menelaus Cicero means Lucius and Marcus Lucullus; the former Memmius had, as tribune inB.C.66-65, opposed in his demand for a triumph, the latter he has now injured in the person of his wife.
[117]By Agamemnon and Menelaus Cicero means Lucius and Marcus Lucullus; the former Memmius had, as tribune inB.C.66-65, opposed in his demand for a triumph, the latter he has now injured in the person of his wife.
[118]A man who wassui iuriswas properly adopted before thecommitia curiata, now represented by thirty lictors. What Herennius proposed was that it should take place by a regularlex, passed by thecomitia tributa. The object apparently was to avoid the necessity of the presence of a pontifex and augur, which was required at thecomitia curiata. The concurrent law by the consul would come before thecomitia centuriata. The adopter was P. Fonteius, a very young man.
[118]A man who wassui iuriswas properly adopted before thecommitia curiata, now represented by thirty lictors. What Herennius proposed was that it should take place by a regularlex, passed by thecomitia tributa. The object apparently was to avoid the necessity of the presence of a pontifex and augur, which was required at thecomitia curiata. The concurrent law by the consul would come before thecomitia centuriata. The adopter was P. Fonteius, a very young man.
[119]L. Afranius, the other consul.
[119]L. Afranius, the other consul.
[120]M. Lollius Palicanus, "a mere mob orator" (Brutus, §223).
[120]M. Lollius Palicanus, "a mere mob orator" (Brutus, §223).
[121]Thetoga pictaof a triumphator, which Pompey, by special law, was authorized to wear at the games. Cicero uses the contemptuous diminutive,togula.
[121]Thetoga pictaof a triumphator, which Pompey, by special law, was authorized to wear at the games. Cicero uses the contemptuous diminutive,togula.
[122]To be absent from the census without excuse rendered a man liable to penalties. Cicero will therefore put up notices in Atticus's various places of business or residence of his intention to appear in due course. To appear just at the end of the period was, it seems, in the case of a man of business, advisable, that he might be rated at the actual amount of his property, no more or less.
[122]To be absent from the census without excuse rendered a man liable to penalties. Cicero will therefore put up notices in Atticus's various places of business or residence of his intention to appear in due course. To appear just at the end of the period was, it seems, in the case of a man of business, advisable, that he might be rated at the actual amount of his property, no more or less.
[123]A special title given to the Ædui on their application for alliance. Cæsar,B. G.i. 33.
[123]A special title given to the Ædui on their application for alliance. Cæsar,B. G.i. 33.
[124]The migration of the Helvetii did not actually begin tillB.C.58. Cæsar tells us in the first book of hisCommentarieshow he stopped it.
[124]The migration of the Helvetii did not actually begin tillB.C.58. Cæsar tells us in the first book of hisCommentarieshow he stopped it.
[125]ConsulB.C.69, superseded in Crete by PompeyB.C.65. TriumphedB.C.62.
[125]ConsulB.C.69, superseded in Crete by PompeyB.C.65. TriumphedB.C.62.
[126]PrætorB.C.63, defended by Cicero in an extant oration.
[126]PrætorB.C.63, defended by Cicero in an extant oration.
[127]Cn. Cornelius Lentulus Clodianus, consul inB.C.72. Cicero puns on the name Lentulus fromlens(pulse, φακή), and quotes a Greek proverb for things incongruous. See Athenæus, 160 (from theNecuiaof Sopater):Ἴθακος Ὀδυσσεὺς, τὸ á¼Îºá½¶ τῇ φακῇ μÏÏονπάÏεστι· θάÏσει, θυμÎ.
[127]Cn. Cornelius Lentulus Clodianus, consul inB.C.72. Cicero puns on the name Lentulus fromlens(pulse, φακή), and quotes a Greek proverb for things incongruous. See Athenæus, 160 (from theNecuiaof Sopater):
Ἴθακος Ὀδυσσεὺς, τὸ á¼Îºá½¶ τῇ φακῇ μÏÏονπάÏεστι· θάÏσει, θυμÎ.
Ἴθακος Ὀδυσσεὺς, τὸ á¼Îºá½¶ τῇ φακῇ μÏÏονπάÏεστι· θάÏσει, θυμÎ.
[128]B.C.133, the year before the agrarian law of Tiberius Gracchus. The law of Gracchus had not touched the public land in Campania (the old territory of Capua). The object of this clause (which appears repeatedly in those ofB.C.120 and 111, see Bruns,Fontes Iuris, p. 72) is to confine the allotment ofager publicusto such land as had become so subsequently,i.e., to land made "public" principally by the confiscations of Sulla.
[128]B.C.133, the year before the agrarian law of Tiberius Gracchus. The law of Gracchus had not touched the public land in Campania (the old territory of Capua). The object of this clause (which appears repeatedly in those ofB.C.120 and 111, see Bruns,Fontes Iuris, p. 72) is to confine the allotment ofager publicusto such land as had become so subsequently,i.e., to land made "public" principally by the confiscations of Sulla.
[129]That is, he proposed to hypothecate thevectigaliafrom the new provinces formed by Pompey in the East for five years.
[129]That is, he proposed to hypothecate thevectigaliafrom the new provinces formed by Pompey in the East for five years.
[130]The consulship. The bribery at Afranius's election is asserted in LetterXXI.
[130]The consulship. The bribery at Afranius's election is asserted in LetterXXI.
[131]The day of the execution of the Catilinarian conspirators.
[131]The day of the execution of the Catilinarian conspirators.
[132]Epicharmus, twice quoted by Polybius, xviii. 40; xxxi. 21. νᾶφε καὶ μÎμνας' ἀπιστεῖν, ἄÏθÏα ταῦτα τῶν φÏενῶν.
[132]Epicharmus, twice quoted by Polybius, xviii. 40; xxxi. 21. νᾶφε καὶ μÎμνας' ἀπιστεῖν, ἄÏθÏα ταῦτα τῶν φÏενῶν.
[133]Pedariiwere probably those senators who had not held curule office. They were not different from the other senators in point of legal rights, but as ex-magistrates were asked for theirsententiafirst, they seldom had time to do anything but signify by word their assent to one or other motion, or to cross over to the person whom they intended to support.
[133]Pedariiwere probably those senators who had not held curule office. They were not different from the other senators in point of legal rights, but as ex-magistrates were asked for theirsententiafirst, they seldom had time to do anything but signify by word their assent to one or other motion, or to cross over to the person whom they intended to support.
[134]P. Servilius Vatia Isauricus, son of the conqueror of the Isaurians. As he had not yet been a prætor, he would be called on after theconsularesandprætorii. He then moved a new clause to the decree, and carried it.
[134]P. Servilius Vatia Isauricus, son of the conqueror of the Isaurians. As he had not yet been a prætor, he would be called on after theconsularesandprætorii. He then moved a new clause to the decree, and carried it.
[135]The decree apparently prevented the recovery of debts from alibera civitasin the Roman courts. Atticus would therefore have to trust to the regard of the Sicyonians for their credit.
[135]The decree apparently prevented the recovery of debts from alibera civitasin the Roman courts. Atticus would therefore have to trust to the regard of the Sicyonians for their credit.
[136]A son must be hard up for something to say for himself if he is always harping on his father's reputation; and so must I, if I have nothing but my consulship. That seems the only point in the quotation. I do not feel that there is any reference to praise of his father in Cicero's own poem. There are two versions of the proverb:τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ κακοδαίμονες υἱοίandτίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ εá½Î´Î±Î¯Î¼Î¿Î½ÎµÏ‚ υἱοί.
[136]A son must be hard up for something to say for himself if he is always harping on his father's reputation; and so must I, if I have nothing but my consulship. That seems the only point in the quotation. I do not feel that there is any reference to praise of his father in Cicero's own poem. There are two versions of the proverb:
τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ κακοδαίμονες υἱοί
τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ κακοδαίμονες υἱοί
and
τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ εá½Î´Î±Î¯Î¼Î¿Î½ÎµÏ‚ υἱοί.
τίς πατÎÏ' αἰνήσει εἰ μὴ εá½Î´Î±Î¯Î¼Î¿Î½ÎµÏ‚ υἱοί.
[137]Contained in LetterXXII, pp.46-47.
[137]Contained in LetterXXII, pp.46-47.
[138]Readingtibiformihi, as Prof. Tyrrell suggests.
[138]Readingtibiformihi, as Prof. Tyrrell suggests.
[139]ΣπάÏτην ἔλαχες κείνην κοσμεῖ. "Sparta is your lot, do it credit," a line of Euripides which had become proverbial.
[139]ΣπάÏτην ἔλαχες κείνην κοσμεῖ. "Sparta is your lot, do it credit," a line of Euripides which had become proverbial.
[140]οἱ μὲν παÏ' οá½Î´Îν εἰσι, τοῖς δ' οá½Î´ÎµÎ½ μÎλει. Rhinton, a dramatist,circaB.C.320-280 (of Tarentum or Syracuse).
[140]οἱ μὲν παÏ' οá½Î´Îν εἰσι, τοῖς δ' οá½Î´ÎµÎ½ μÎλει. Rhinton, a dramatist,circaB.C.320-280 (of Tarentum or Syracuse).
[141]See pp.52,56,65.
[141]See pp.52,56,65.
[142]See p.57.
[142]See p.57.
[143]Thelex Cincia(B.C.204) forbade the taking of presents for acting as advocate in law courts.
[143]Thelex Cincia(B.C.204) forbade the taking of presents for acting as advocate in law courts.
[144]Nep.Att.c. 18.
[144]Nep.Att.c. 18.
[145]Atticus seems to have seen a copy belonging to some one else at Corfu. Cicero explains that he had kept back Atticus's copy for revision.
[145]Atticus seems to have seen a copy belonging to some one else at Corfu. Cicero explains that he had kept back Atticus's copy for revision.
[146]Cicero evidently intends Atticus to act as a publisher. Hislibrariiwill make copies. See p. 32,note 1.
[146]Cicero evidently intends Atticus to act as a publisher. Hislibrariiwill make copies. See p. 32,note 1.
[147]The passage in brackets is believed by some, not on very good grounds, to be spurious. Otho is L. Roscius Otho, the author of the law as to the seats in the theatre of the equites. The "proscribed" are those proscribed by Sulla, their sons being forbidden to hold office, a disability which Cicero maintained for fear of civil disturbances. Seein Pis.§§ 4-5.
[147]The passage in brackets is believed by some, not on very good grounds, to be spurious. Otho is L. Roscius Otho, the author of the law as to the seats in the theatre of the equites. The "proscribed" are those proscribed by Sulla, their sons being forbidden to hold office, a disability which Cicero maintained for fear of civil disturbances. Seein Pis.§§ 4-5.
[148]Pulchellus,i.e., P. Clodius Pulcher, the diminutive of contempt.
[148]Pulchellus,i.e., P. Clodius Pulcher, the diminutive of contempt.
[149]Where he had been as quæstor. Hera is said to be another name for Hybla. Some readheri, "only yesterday."
[149]Where he had been as quæstor. Hera is said to be another name for Hybla. Some readheri, "only yesterday."
[150]Clodius is shewing off his modesty. It was usual for persons returning from a province to send messengers in front, and to travel deliberately, that their friends might pay them the compliment of going out to meet them. Entering the city after nightfall was another method of avoiding a public reception. See Suet.Aug.53.
[150]Clodius is shewing off his modesty. It was usual for persons returning from a province to send messengers in front, and to travel deliberately, that their friends might pay them the compliment of going out to meet them. Entering the city after nightfall was another method of avoiding a public reception. See Suet.Aug.53.
[151]See p. 37,note 3.
[151]See p. 37,note 3.
[152]Clodia, wife of the consul Metellus. See p. 22,note.
[152]Clodia, wife of the consul Metellus. See p. 22,note.
[153]We don't know who this is; probably acavaliere serventeof Clodia's.
[153]We don't know who this is; probably acavaliere serventeof Clodia's.
[154]I.e., in the business of her brother Clodius's attempt to get the tribuneship.
[154]I.e., in the business of her brother Clodius's attempt to get the tribuneship.
[155]Though Cæsar has been mentioned before in regard to his candidature for the consulship, and in connexion with the Clodius case, this is the first reference to him as a statesman. He is on the eve of his return from Spain, and already is giving indication of his coalition with Pompey. His military success in Spain first clearly demonstrated his importance.
[155]Though Cæsar has been mentioned before in regard to his candidature for the consulship, and in connexion with the Clodius case, this is the first reference to him as a statesman. He is on the eve of his return from Spain, and already is giving indication of his coalition with Pompey. His military success in Spain first clearly demonstrated his importance.
[156]During the meeting of the senate at the time of the Catilinarian conspiracy (2Phil.§ 16).
[156]During the meeting of the senate at the time of the Catilinarian conspiracy (2Phil.§ 16).
[157]The consul Cæcilius Metellus was imprisoned by the tribune Flavius for resisting his land law (Dio, xxxvii. 50).
[157]The consul Cæcilius Metellus was imprisoned by the tribune Flavius for resisting his land law (Dio, xxxvii. 50).
[158]M. Favonius, an extreme Optimate.Ille Catonis æmulus(Suet.Aug.13). He had a bitter tongue, but a faithful heart (Plut.Pomp.60, 73; Vell. ii 73). He did not get the prætorship (which he was now seeking) tillB.C.49. He was executed after Philippi (Dio. 47, 49).
[158]M. Favonius, an extreme Optimate.Ille Catonis æmulus(Suet.Aug.13). He had a bitter tongue, but a faithful heart (Plut.Pomp.60, 73; Vell. ii 73). He did not get the prætorship (which he was now seeking) tillB.C.49. He was executed after Philippi (Dio. 47, 49).
[159]P. Scipio Nasica Metellus Pius, the future father-in-law of Pompey, who got the prætorship, was indicted forambitusby Favonius.
[159]P. Scipio Nasica Metellus Pius, the future father-in-law of Pompey, who got the prætorship, was indicted forambitusby Favonius.
[160]Ἀπολλόνιος Μόλων of Alabanda taught rhetoric at Rhodes. Cicero had himself attended his lectures. He puns on the name Molon andmolæ, "mill at which slaves worked."
[160]Ἀπολλόνιος Μόλων of Alabanda taught rhetoric at Rhodes. Cicero had himself attended his lectures. He puns on the name Molon andmolæ, "mill at which slaves worked."
[161]See pp.57,60.
[161]See pp.57,60.
[162]Readingdiscessionibus, "divisions in the senate," with Manutius and Tyrrell, notdissentionibus; anddeinde ne, but notstforsi.
[162]Readingdiscessionibus, "divisions in the senate," with Manutius and Tyrrell, notdissentionibus; anddeinde ne, but notstforsi.
[163]His study, which he playfully calls by this name, in imitation of that of Atticus. See p.30.
[163]His study, which he playfully calls by this name, in imitation of that of Atticus. See p.30.
[164]See LetterXV, p.25.
[164]See LetterXV, p.25.
[165]His translation of thePrognosticsof Aratus.
[165]His translation of thePrognosticsof Aratus.
[166]Gaius Octavius, father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia.
[166]Gaius Octavius, father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia.
[167]The roll being unwound as he read and piled on the ground. Dicæarchus of Messene, a contemporary of Aristotle, wrote on "Constitutions" among other things. Procilius seems also to have written on polities.
[167]The roll being unwound as he read and piled on the ground. Dicæarchus of Messene, a contemporary of Aristotle, wrote on "Constitutions" among other things. Procilius seems also to have written on polities.
[168]Herodes, a teacher at Athens, afterwards tutor to young Cicero. He seems to have written on Cicero's consulship.
[168]Herodes, a teacher at Athens, afterwards tutor to young Cicero. He seems to have written on Cicero's consulship.
[169]These remarks refer to something in Atticus's letter.
[169]These remarks refer to something in Atticus's letter.
[170]Gaius Antonius, about to be prosecuted formaiestason his return from Macedonia.
[170]Gaius Antonius, about to be prosecuted formaiestason his return from Macedonia.
[171]P. Nigidius Figulus, a tribune (which dates the letter after the 10th of December). The tribunes had no right of summons (vocatio), they must personally enforce their commands.
[171]P. Nigidius Figulus, a tribune (which dates the letter after the 10th of December). The tribunes had no right of summons (vocatio), they must personally enforce their commands.
[172]"The Conqueror,"i.e., Pompey. Aulus's son is L. Afranius.
[172]"The Conqueror,"i.e., Pompey. Aulus's son is L. Afranius.
[173]I.e., his military get-up.
[173]I.e., his military get-up.
[174]Cyrus was Cicero's architect; his argument or theory he calls Cyropædeia, after Xenophon's book.
[174]Cyrus was Cicero's architect; his argument or theory he calls Cyropædeia, after Xenophon's book.
[175]He supposes himself to be making a mathematical figure in optics:Mathematical figure in optics.
[175]He supposes himself to be making a mathematical figure in optics:
Mathematical figure in optics.
[176]The theory of sight held by Democritus, denounced as unphilosophical by Plutarch (Timoleon, Introd.).
[176]The theory of sight held by Democritus, denounced as unphilosophical by Plutarch (Timoleon, Introd.).
[177]Apparently a villa in theSolonius ager, near Lanuvium.
[177]Apparently a villa in theSolonius ager, near Lanuvium.
[178]The Cornelius Balbus of Gades, whose citizenship Cicero defendedB.C.56 (consulB.C.40). He was Cæsar's close friend and agent.
[178]The Cornelius Balbus of Gades, whose citizenship Cicero defendedB.C.56 (consulB.C.40). He was Cæsar's close friend and agent.
[179]Cicero was apparently not behind the scenes. The coalition with Pompey certainly, and with Crassus probably, had been already made and the terms agreed upon soon after the elections. If Cicero afterwards discovered this it must have shewn him how little he could trust Pompey's show of friendship and Cæsar's candour. Cæsar desired Cicero's private friendship and public acquiescence, but was prepared to do without them.
[179]Cicero was apparently not behind the scenes. The coalition with Pompey certainly, and with Crassus probably, had been already made and the terms agreed upon soon after the elections. If Cicero afterwards discovered this it must have shewn him how little he could trust Pompey's show of friendship and Cæsar's candour. Cæsar desired Cicero's private friendship and public acquiescence, but was prepared to do without them.
[180]From Cicero's Latin poem on his consulship.
[180]From Cicero's Latin poem on his consulship.
[181]εἶς οἰωνός ἄÏιστος ἀμÏνεσθαι πεÏὶ πάτÏης (Hom.Il.xii. 243).
[181]εἶς οἰωνός ἄÏιστος ἀμÏνεσθαι πεÏὶ πάτÏης (Hom.Il.xii. 243).
[182]A country festival and general holiday. It was aferiæ conceptivæ, and therefore the exact day varied. But it was about the end of the year or beginning of the new year (in Pis.§ 4; Aul. Gell. x. 24; Macrob.Sat.i. 4;ad Att.vii. 5; vii. 7, § 2).
[182]A country festival and general holiday. It was aferiæ conceptivæ, and therefore the exact day varied. But it was about the end of the year or beginning of the new year (in Pis.§ 4; Aul. Gell. x. 24; Macrob.Sat.i. 4;ad Att.vii. 5; vii. 7, § 2).
[183]Of the persons mentioned, L. Ælius Tubero is elsewhere praised as a man of learning (pro Lig.§ 10); A. Allienus (prætorB.C.49) was a friend and correspondent; M. Gratidius is mentioned inpro Flacco, § 49, as acting in a judicial capacity, and was perhaps a cousin of Cicero's.
[183]Of the persons mentioned, L. Ælius Tubero is elsewhere praised as a man of learning (pro Lig.§ 10); A. Allienus (prætorB.C.49) was a friend and correspondent; M. Gratidius is mentioned inpro Flacco, § 49, as acting in a judicial capacity, and was perhaps a cousin of Cicero's.
[184]The class of Romans who have practically become provincials.
[184]The class of Romans who have practically become provincials.
[185]Rome and its society and interests.
[185]Rome and its society and interests.
[186]Father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia,B.C.60-59. But he seems to refer to his prætorship (B.C.61) at Rome; at any rate, as well as to his conduct in Macedonia.
[186]Father of Augustus, governor of Macedonia,B.C.60-59. But he seems to refer to his prætorship (B.C.61) at Rome; at any rate, as well as to his conduct in Macedonia.
[187]Readingprimum; othersprimus, "his head lictor."
[187]Readingprimum; othersprimus, "his head lictor."
[188]That is, if it ends in his death, for Meliodorus of Skepsis was sent by Mithridates to Tigranes to urge him to go to war with Rome, but privately advised him not to do so, and, in consequence, was put to death by Mithridates (Plut.Luc.22). The wordScepsii(Σκηψίου) was introduced by Gronovius for the unintelligible wordSyrpiefound in the MSS., which so often blunder in Greek names.
[188]That is, if it ends in his death, for Meliodorus of Skepsis was sent by Mithridates to Tigranes to urge him to go to war with Rome, but privately advised him not to do so, and, in consequence, was put to death by Mithridates (Plut.Luc.22). The wordScepsii(Σκηψίου) was introduced by Gronovius for the unintelligible wordSyrpiefound in the MSS., which so often blunder in Greek names.
[189]Clodius, alluding to his intrusion into the mysteries.
[189]Clodius, alluding to his intrusion into the mysteries.
[190]Atticus has asked Cicero for a Latin treatise on geography—probably as a publisher, Cicero being the prince of book-makers—and to that end has sent him the Greek geography of Serapio.
[190]Atticus has asked Cicero for a Latin treatise on geography—probably as a publisher, Cicero being the prince of book-makers—and to that end has sent him the Greek geography of Serapio.
[191]In his Formianum or Pompeianum, his villas at Formiæ and Pompeii.
[191]In his Formianum or Pompeianum, his villas at Formiæ and Pompeii.
[192]An architect, a freedman of Cyrus, of whom we have heard before.
[192]An architect, a freedman of Cyrus, of whom we have heard before.
[193]The triumvirs. The mission to Egypt was in the affairs of Ptolemy Auletes (father of Cleopatra), who was this year declared a "friend and ally." He soon got expelled by his subjects.
[193]The triumvirs. The mission to Egypt was in the affairs of Ptolemy Auletes (father of Cleopatra), who was this year declared a "friend and ally." He soon got expelled by his subjects.
[194]Il.vi. 442; xxii. 100. Cicero's frequent expression for popular opinion, or the opinion of those he respects—his Mrs. Grundy.
[194]Il.vi. 442; xxii. 100. Cicero's frequent expression for popular opinion, or the opinion of those he respects—his Mrs. Grundy.
[195]Theophanes, a philosopher of Mitylene, a close friend of Pompey's, in whose house he frequently resided. He took charge of Pompey's wife and children inB.C.48-47.
[195]Theophanes, a philosopher of Mitylene, a close friend of Pompey's, in whose house he frequently resided. He took charge of Pompey's wife and children inB.C.48-47.
[196]Q. Arrius, an orator and friend of Cæsar's, by whose help he had hoped for the consulship. See p.49.
[196]Q. Arrius, an orator and friend of Cæsar's, by whose help he had hoped for the consulship. See p.49.
[197]Q. Cæcilius Metellus Nepos (consulB.C.57). His brother, the consul ofB.C.60, had just died and made a vacancy in the college of augurs.
[197]Q. Cæcilius Metellus Nepos (consulB.C.57). His brother, the consul ofB.C.60, had just died and made a vacancy in the college of augurs.
[198]A captive brought by Lucullus, who became a friend of Cicero and tutor to his son and nephew.
[198]A captive brought by Lucullus, who became a friend of Cicero and tutor to his son and nephew.
[199]One of the two yearly officers of a colony—they answer to the consuls at Rome. Therefore Cicero means, "I wish I had been a consul in a small colony rather than a consul at Rome."
[199]One of the two yearly officers of a colony—they answer to the consuls at Rome. Therefore Cicero means, "I wish I had been a consul in a small colony rather than a consul at Rome."
[200]For distribution of land under Cæsar's law. P. Vatinius was a tribune this year, and worked in Cæsar's interests.
[200]For distribution of land under Cæsar's law. P. Vatinius was a tribune this year, and worked in Cæsar's interests.
[201]Theopompus of Chios, the historian (Att.vi. 1, § 12). Born aboutB.C.378. His bitterness censured by Polybius, viii. 11-13.
[201]Theopompus of Chios, the historian (Att.vi. 1, § 12). Born aboutB.C.378. His bitterness censured by Polybius, viii. 11-13.
[202]The money due from the treasury to Q. Cicero in Asia. He wants it to be paid in Roman currency (denarii), not in Asiatic coins (cistophori), a vast amount of which Pompey had brought home and deposited in the treasury. So an Indian official might like sovereigns instead of rupees if he could get them.
[202]The money due from the treasury to Q. Cicero in Asia. He wants it to be paid in Roman currency (denarii), not in Asiatic coins (cistophori), a vast amount of which Pompey had brought home and deposited in the treasury. So an Indian official might like sovereigns instead of rupees if he could get them.
[203]As he was a mansui iuris, Clodius's adoption into a new gens (adrogatio) would have to take place before thecomitia curiata(now represented by thirty lictors), which still retained this formal business. The ceremony required the presence of an augur and a pontifex to hold it. Cicero supposes Pompey and Cæsar as intending to act in that capacity. Pompey, it seems, did eventually attend.
[203]As he was a mansui iuris, Clodius's adoption into a new gens (adrogatio) would have to take place before thecomitia curiata(now represented by thirty lictors), which still retained this formal business. The ceremony required the presence of an augur and a pontifex to hold it. Cicero supposes Pompey and Cæsar as intending to act in that capacity. Pompey, it seems, did eventually attend.
[204]One of the twenty commissioners under Cæsar's agrarian law. Cicero was offered and declined a place among them. The "only man," of course, refers to the intrusion on the mysteries.
[204]One of the twenty commissioners under Cæsar's agrarian law. Cicero was offered and declined a place among them. The "only man," of course, refers to the intrusion on the mysteries.
[205]To Egypt.
[205]To Egypt.
[206]This seems also to refer to the twenty agrarian commissioners, who, according to Mommsen, were divided into committees of five, and were, therefore, spoken of indifferently asquinqueviriandvigintiviri. But it is somewhat uncertain.
[206]This seems also to refer to the twenty agrarian commissioners, who, according to Mommsen, were divided into committees of five, and were, therefore, spoken of indifferently asquinqueviriandvigintiviri. But it is somewhat uncertain.
[207]κατὰ τὸ Ï€Ïακτικόν.
[207]κατὰ τὸ Ï€Ïακτικόν.
[208]Castricius seems to have been anegotiatoror banker in Asia. We don't know what mistake is referred to; probably as to some money transmitted to Pomponia.
[208]Castricius seems to have been anegotiatoror banker in Asia. We don't know what mistake is referred to; probably as to some money transmitted to Pomponia.
[209]It is suggested that Aristodemus is some teacher of the two young Ciceros, to whom the young Marcus wishes to apologize for his absence or to promise some study.
[209]It is suggested that Aristodemus is some teacher of the two young Ciceros, to whom the young Marcus wishes to apologize for his absence or to promise some study.
[210]Perhaps some inscription or other ornament for Atticus's gymnasium in his villa at Buthrotum.
[210]Perhaps some inscription or other ornament for Atticus's gymnasium in his villa at Buthrotum.
[211]A verse from Lucilius. "Young Curio" is the future tribune ofB.C.50, who was bribed by Cæsar, joined him at Ravenna at the end of that year, was sent by him inB.C.49 to Sicily and Africa, and fell in battle with the Pompeians and King Iuba.
[211]A verse from Lucilius. "Young Curio" is the future tribune ofB.C.50, who was bribed by Cæsar, joined him at Ravenna at the end of that year, was sent by him inB.C.49 to Sicily and Africa, and fell in battle with the Pompeians and King Iuba.
[212]L. Saufeius, the Epicurean friend of Atticus (see LetterII). He seems to mean, "as indefatigable as Saufeius." But Prof. Tyrrell points out that it might mean, "at the risk of your thinking me as Epicurean and self-indulgent as Saufeius, I say," etc.
[212]L. Saufeius, the Epicurean friend of Atticus (see LetterII). He seems to mean, "as indefatigable as Saufeius." But Prof. Tyrrell points out that it might mean, "at the risk of your thinking me as Epicurean and self-indulgent as Saufeius, I say," etc.
[213]The bay of Misenum, near which was Cicero's Pompeianum.
[213]The bay of Misenum, near which was Cicero's Pompeianum.
[214]Q. Cæcilius Bassus, probably quæstor at Ostia. Antium would be in his district.
[214]Q. Cæcilius Bassus, probably quæstor at Ostia. Antium would be in his district.
[215]βοῶπις,sc.Clodia. She is to talk to her brother about Cicero. She is "Iuno" perhaps as an enemy—as Bacon called the Duchess of Burgundy Henry VII.'s Iuno—or perhaps for a less decent reason, asconiux sororqueof Publius.
[215]βοῶπις,sc.Clodia. She is to talk to her brother about Cicero. She is "Iuno" perhaps as an enemy—as Bacon called the Duchess of Burgundy Henry VII.'s Iuno—or perhaps for a less decent reason, asconiux sororqueof Publius.
[216]Pompey, who was proud of having taken Jerusalem.Traductor ad plebem, said of the magistrate presiding at thecomitiafor adoption.
[216]Pompey, who was proud of having taken Jerusalem.Traductor ad plebem, said of the magistrate presiding at thecomitiafor adoption.