After 2 October 44 BCE: To Quintus Cornificius (on the way to Africa?) from Cicero (at Rome)
Cicero really doesn't know what is going to happen
Here at Rome we are waging war against the most wicked gladiator of all—our colleague, Antony. But it is not on equal terms: it is weapons against words. He is even making public speeches about you,1 although not with impunity; for he will realise who it is he has attacked. But I think others have written to you about everything that has happened. From me, you ought to find out what will happen—and it is now very difficult to guess.
Everything has been overturned; the good men do not have a leader, and our dear tyrant-killers are in faraway places. Pansa is loyal in sentiment and speaks boldly; our dear Hirtius is recovering from his illness slowly. I really don’t know what will happen; our one hope is still that the Roman people will finally resemble their ancestors.
I certainly won’t fail the Republic, and I shall endure whatever happens, so long as I am not to blame for anything, with a brave heart. By all means, I shall protect your reputation and position for as long as I can.
Read Ad Familiares 12.22 in Latin here | Check the glossary here
Possibly during Antony’s public speech on October 2nd.