25 November 58 BCE: From Cicero (at Thessalonica, and then Dyrrachium) to Atticus (in Rome)

[This is the first of two letters from November 25th.]

Cicero greets Atticus.

My brother Quintus and Piso have both written carefully to me about what has happened, but I still wish that your work had not prevented you from writing to me in detail about events and your thoughts on them, as you usually do.

Plancius’ generosity is still keeping me here, although I have tried to go to Epirus several times now. Plancius’ hope—which I do not share—is that we can leave together; he hopes this will bring him great honour.1 But now that the soldiers are said to be on their way, I must prepare to leave him.2 And when I have, I shall send you word at once, so that you know where I am.

Lentulus feels a sense of duty towards me, and shows it through his actions, promises, and letters. This has given me some hope of Pompey’s good will; for you have often told me that he is entirely under that man’s control. On the subject of Metellus, my brother has written that you have accomplished as much as he had hoped for.3

My Pomponius, fight for me to be allowed to live with you and my family, and write to me about everything. I am crushed by grief and longing for all the things that have always been dearer to me than my own self. Take care of your health.

If I had gone to Epirus through Thessaly, I would not have got any news for a long time. I have made my way to Dyrrachium, because I have people devoted to me there (I wrote the above at Thessalonica). When I move from here towards you, I shall let you know—and do please write to me about everything, anything at all, in as much detail as you can. I now either expect that something will happen, or I shall have no hope at all.

Sent November 25th, from Dyrrachium.

Latin text of Cic. Att. 3.22 | Glossary | Where is Cicero?