CX (A IV, 7)
To Atticus (At Rome)
Arpinum (April-May)
B.C. 56, ÆT. 50
Nothing could be better timed than your letter, which much relieved the anxiety I was feeling about that excellent boy, our Quintus. Two hours earlier Chærippus had arrived: his news was simply awful. As to what you say about Apollonius, why, heaven confound him! a Greek and turn bankrupt! Thinks he may do what Roman knights do! For, of course, Terentius is within his rights! As to Metellus—de mortuis, etc.495—yet there has been no citizen die these many years past who ——. Well, I am willing to warrant your getting the money: for what have you to fear, whomsoever he made his heir, unless it were Publius? But he has, in fact, made a respectable man his heir, though he was himself ——! Wherefore in this business you will not have to open your money-chest: another time you will be more cautious. Please see to my instructions about my house: hire some guards: give Milo a hint.496 The Arpinates grumble amazingly about Laterium.497 Well, what can I say? I was much annoyed myself, but “to words of mine he gave no heed.”498 For the rest, take care of young Cicero and love him as always.