CLXIV (F XIII, 73)
TO Q. PHILIPPUS (PROCONSUL OF
ASIA)
ROME
I congratulate you on your safe return to your
family from your province, without loss to your
reputation or to the state. But if I had seen you
at Rome I should also have thanked you for having
looked after L. Egnatius, my most intimate friend,
who is still absent, and L. Oppius, who is here.
With Antipater of Derbe I have become not merely
on visiting terms, but really very intimate. I
have been told that you are exceedingly angry with
him, and I was very sorry to hear it. I have no
means of judging the merits of the case, only I am
persuaded that a man of your character has done
nothing without good reason.
However, I do beg of you again and again that, in
consideration of our old friendship, you will, for
my sake if for anyone's, grant his sons, who are
in your power, their liberty, unless you consider
that in doing so your reputation may be injured.
If I had thought that, I would never have made the
request, for your fame is of more importance in my
eyes than any friendship with him. But I persuade
myself—though I may possibly be
mistaken—that this measure will bring
you honour rather than abuse. What can be done in
the matter, and what you can do for
my sake (for as to your willingness I feel no
doubt), I should be obliged by your informing me,
if it is not too much trouble to you.
ROME
