DCCCXVIII (F XII, 5)
TO GAIUS CASSUS LONGINUS (IN
SYRIA)
ROME (FEBRUARY)
I SUPPOSE that the winter has as yet prevented
us from getting any certain news from you, as to
what you are doing, and above all where you are.
Nevertheless, it is the general talk—the
wish, no doubt, is father to the
thought—that you are in Syria and in
possession of forces. That statement finds the
readier belief that it seems likely in itself. Our
friend Brutus for his part has gained a brilliant
reputation: for his achievements have been so
great and unexpected that, while welcome in
themselves, their distinction was enhanced by
their rapidity. 1
But if you command the extent of territory which
we suppose, the Republic has gained very strong
supports. For from the nearest shore of Greece as
far as Egypt we shall have been put under the
protection of the authority and forces of the most
loyal citizens. However, unless I am mistaken, as
the situation now stands, the ultimate decision of
the whole war seems to rest with Decimus Brutus.
If he, as we hope, breaks cut from Mutina, I think
there will be a complete collapse of the war. The
forces at present besieging him are very small,
because Antony is occupying Bononia with a large
army. Our friend Hirtius, moreover, is at
Claterna, 2 Caesar at Forum Cornelium, both
with a strong army; while Pansa has collected
large forces at Rome from the levy in Italy.
Winter has at present prevented any movement.
Hirtius seems likely to do nothing, as he tells me
in frequent letters, without careful preparation.
Except Bononia, Regium Lepidi, and Parma, we have
the whole of Gaul devoted heart and soul to the
constitution. Even your clients the Transpadani we
find attached to the cause with
surprising unanimity. The senate, with the
exception of the consulars, is most resolute,
3 but of the consulars
Lucius Caesar alone is loyal and honest. By the
death of Servius Sulpicius we have lost a great
support For the rest, some are inactive and some
disloyal A certain number are envious of the
reputation of those whom they see to be held in
honour in the Republic. But the unanimity of the
Roman people and the whole of Italy is wonderful.
This is pretty well all which I wanted you to
know. My present hope and prayer is that the sun
of your valour may shine forth from those regions
of the East.
ROME (FEBRUARY)