I can tell that you have done everything you can regarding Quintus’ business. But he is still upset, because he is hesitating over whether he should do as Lepta wishes, or damage his son’s credit.1 I have heard that Lucius Piso wants to go abroad on a legation under a forged senatorial decree. I would like to know what is happening.
The letter-carried I told you I was about to send to Brutus reached me at Anagnia on the night of the 30th and brought me a letter, in which Brutus again requested one thing contrary to his usual good sense—that I should attend his games.2 Of course, I replied that, first of all, I have already left, so it is not possible; then, that it would be most paradoxical of me, when I have not even gone near Rome since people began to take up arms—which I have done less for the sake of avoiding danger to my person than to my position—to suddenly go to the games. For putting on games at such a time is honourable for him, because he must do it; but as there is no compulsion for me to attend, it would not be honourable for me at all. For my part, it is my utmost hope that they are well attended and as well received as possible, and I trust that they will be. Please let me know how these games are received, from their commencement and onwards, and then all about the rest of the games on every day that follows. But enough about the games.
The remaining part of his letter can be read in two ways, but it does throw out occasional sparks of manly spirit. So that you can interpret what it means yourself, I have sent you a copy of the letter, although my letter-carrier has told me that he also brought a letter from Brutus to you, and that it had been forwarded to you from Tusculum. I have arranged my journey so that I shall be at Puteoli on the 7th. For I really am hurrying, but I am still making the voyage as cautiously as is humanly possible.
Please reassure Marcus Aelius: tell him that I had thought that the few drains on the edge of the farm, and underground, would have some sort of easement, but that I no longer want it, and nor do I want him to worry about it at all. But, as you were saying to me, tell him as gently as possible, so that he is reassured rather than suspecting that I am angry about anything. Likewise, please speak freely with Cascellius about Tullius’ debt. It’s a small thing, but it’s good that you noticed; it was done a little too cleverly. If he had tricked me somehow—which he nearly did, if not for your cunning—I would have been displeased. Therefore, whatever happens, I would prefer for the business to be obstructed. When you see Caerellia, please remember to transfer ownership of an eighth part of the [...] house near the Temple of Strenia to her, at the highest price bid in the auction. I think it was 380,000.
If there is any news, and also if you foresee anything that you think will happen, please write to me as frequently as you can. Please remember, as I have already asked you to, to apologise to Varro for the lateness of my letter. I would like you to let me know what Maenius Mundus has done about his will—I am curious about it.
Arpinum, July 2nd.
Read Ad Atticum 15.26 in Latin here | Check the glossary here
Quintus Jr. seems to have told Lepta that his father would pay.
The ludi Apollinares (Games of Apollo), which Brutus had to put on as Urban Praetor, even if not in person.