September 44 BCE: To Cicero (at Rome) from Decimus Junius Brutus (in Cisalpine Gaul)
Decimus Brutus would like some appreciation, please.
Decimus Brutus, imperator, consul-elect, greets Cicero.
If I had any doubt about your good will towards me, I would have made you a very wordy petition to defend my position in the State. But the truth is in fact what I have convinced myself—that I matter to you.
I made progress against the inhabitants of the Alps, not aiming for the title of imperator so much as wanting to satisfy my soldiers, and to make them constant for defending our affairs. I think I have achieved this; for I have proved my generosity and spirit to them. I have waged war against the most warlike people of all. I have captured many fortified places; I have laid waste to many areas. I don’t write to the Senate without cause. Please help me by voicing your support; in doing so, you will be doing a great service to the common good.
Read Ad Familiares 11.4 in Latin here | Check the glossary here