LXXVII To the Emperor Trajan
I have been pressed by some persons to take upon myself the enquiry of causes relating to claims of freedom by birth-right, agreeably to a rescript of Domitian’s to Minucius Rufus, and the practice of former proconsuls. But upon casting my eye on the decree of the senate concerning cases of this nature, I find it only mentions the proconsular provinces.1053 I have therefore, Sir, deferred interfering in this affair, till I shall receive your instructions as to how you would have me proceed.