Spring 43 BCE: To Quintus Cornificius (in Africa) from Cicero (at Rome)
Quintus Cornificius is about to be inundated with letters of recommendation
Gaius Anicius, my friend, a man distinguished in every respect, has been entrusted with a free legation1 to Africa for the sake of his private business. I should like it if you would assist him in all ways, and help him to complete his business in a most timely manner.
Particularly, because he is most dear to me, I commend him and his dignity to you, and ask that you do what I myself used to do (unasked) in my province2—I would give lictors to all senators, because I had received the same favour, and understood that it was often done by great men. Therefore, my Cornificius, do this, and look out for all his other affairs and for his dignity, if you love me. I will be most grateful.
Take care of your health.
Latin text of ad Familiares 12.21 | Glossary | Historia Civilis video overview of 44-43 BCE
From Lewis and Short: ‘Libera legatio, a free legation, i. e. permission granted to a senator to visit one or more provinces on his private affairs in the character of an ambassador, but without performing the duties of one (such an embassy was called free, because while it lasted the holder of it was at liberty to come to the city of Rome and leave it again without resigning his office)’.
Cicero was governor of Cilicia from 51 to 50, and hated it.