Spring 43 BCE: To Quintus Cornificius (in Africa) from Cicero (at Rome)
One final letter of recommendation
I think it’s not just you, who are very familiar with my concerns, but the entire population of Rome that is aware of my friendship with Lucius Lamia. In fact it was quite a theatrical spectacle when he was removed from Rome by the consul Aulus Gabinius, because he was outspoken and brave in defending my safety.1 But that was not where my affection for him began, for it was already well-established and strong, which was why he did not hesitate to face danger on my behalf. Added to these kindnesses, or rather these services that need to be rewarded, is his most charming manner—absolutely no man pleases me more.
I do not think you will now be waiting to see which words I use in recommending him to you. You understand which words are needed to express such deep affection. Imagine that I have used them all.
Please, just know that if you defend Lamia’s agents, freedmen, and household with whatever they require, I shall be more grateful than if you showed the same generosity to my own family. Nor do I doubt that, since you are such a good judge of character, you would eagerly do everything for Lamia’s own sake, even without my recommendation.
Although, I have been told that you believe that Lamia was present for the drafting of a certain senatorial decree that damaged your position;2 but he was not involved in the drafting of anything at all during that consulship.3 What’s more, all sorts of falsified senatorial decrees were being passed off at that time—unless perhaps you also think that I was involved with that senatorial decree about Sempronius,4 when I was not even in Rome, as I wrote to you about it at the time.
But enough about that. I ask you as a pressing favour, my Cornificius, to think of all Lamia’s business as my own, and to ensure that he understands that this recommendation has been of great use to him. There is nothing you can do that would make me more grateful.
Take care of your health.
Latin text of ad Familiares 12.24.3 | Glossary | Historia Civilis video overview of 44-43 BCE
Gabinius was consul in 58 BCE and helped Clodius to have Cicero exiled that year.
Possibly the decree that transferred governorship of Cornificius’ province to Gaius Calvisius Sabinus.
The consulship of Dolabella and Antony, i.e. 44 BCE.