May or June 43 BCE: To Cicero (at Rome) from Brutus (at Dyrrachium)
Brutus tries to get a priesthood for his step-son
To Cicero from Brutus, greetings.
No-one can judge better than you how dear Lucius Bibulus1 ought to be to me, considering his great struggles and anxiety on the Republic’s behalf. And so either his own virtue or our relationship ought to recommend him to you. I don’t think I need to write much more to you. My will ought to influence you, so long as it is justified and aimed towards a necessary duty.
Bibulus has decided to stand for Pansa’s position.2 I ask that you please nominate him. You cannot do a favour to anyone closer to you than myself, nor nominate a man worthier than Bibulus.
About Domitius and Appuleius, I have no need to write when they are so well recommended to you by their own selves. But you ought to support Appuleius with your authority. Yet Appuleius will be praised in the letter that he is bringing you. Do not reject and fail to care for Bibulus. He is already a great man, and believe me, he can become one who will be responsive to the praise of us, his supporters.
Latin text of Cic. ad Brut. 1.7 | Glossary | Historia Civilis video overview of 44-43 BCE
Lucius Bibulus was Brutus’ step-son and Cato’s grandson.
In the college of Augurs.