Letter 2007: A matter close to my heart demands your assistance.

I would judge you fortunate above all at this present time, in that, removed from the troubles of our homeland, you live at leisure, did I not know that good citizens and men like yourself bear more heavily the adversities which they do not see. For such is the nature of things, that whatever is learned of from another is held to be harsher and greater. Add to this, that an upright mind thinks its own integrity is diminished if it is absent from the perils of its own people. These things I write not to persuade you to a speedy return, but that you may know that in shared misfortunes there is nothing for which you should hasten. For how would you aid the public concern, however much the most prudent of all, were you to return? In the first place, there is now no room for counsel, while in deliberation the standing of those who give their opinions lends weight to their views. When is the more powerful man resisted, when does one yield to an equal? Next, the present situation requires not wisdom but fortune. We fear a failure of the grain supply now that all have been driven out whom Rome had taken in at her bared and full breast. Suppose that we recover our health by these remedies: at how great a cost in the hatred of the provinces does that security of ours stand? Gods of our fathers, grant your favor for the rites that have been neglected! Drive off this wretched famine! Let our city recall as soon as possible those whom against her will she sent away! It is not pleasing to speak with you about our shared adversities more than is necessary. Take care that you keep well, and whatever is greater than human power, leave to the gods to attend to.