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No, I demand it from you; I demand it boldly, and if I succeed, I

promise to remain under your obligation. What? you will say if I

am attackt, shall I not pay tit for tat? Ah, but you will get

greater glory, if even when attackt you answer nothing. Indeed,

if he begins it, answer as you will and you will have fair

excuse; but I have demanded of him that he shall not begin, and I

think I have succeeded. I love each of you according to your

merits and I know that lie was educated in the house of P.

Calvisius, my grandfather, and that I was educated by you;

therefore I am full of anxiety that this most disagreeable

business shall be managed as honourably as possible. I trust you

may approve my advice, for my intention you will approve. At

least I prefer to write unwisely rather than to be silent

unkindly.'

[5] Ad M. Caes ii., 2.