Letter 1106: I see, most distinguished consul, what a heavy obligation your affection places on me.

I see, most distinguished consul, how great an obligation your affection for the honor lays upon me. You bid me come to you and be present to share the joy of your magistracy. By what means can I refuse this, unless you should pardon it out of that same scruple by which you summoned me? For what am I to do, doubtful of my fortune, when on the one hand I am invited to the dutiful observances of your honor, and on the other I am held back by grief for my lost brother? Two roles, unlike each other, are presented to me at one and the same time. How can it come about that we should put on a single face with feelings opposed to one another? Therefore, even-minded, grant me indulgence in this matter. Let the fortunate attend your curule chair in a glad throng; let any friend whole and untouched by misfortune take part under your auspices: but allow me meanwhile, by time or by reason, to wear down the raw grief for my lost brother. And what of the fact that my parents too must be consoled by me in our shared mourning? Their distress will be doubled if to it should be joined anxiety over so untimely a journey of mine. Be ready, then [...]