[6]
and, indeed, beyond all question, O
judges, that matter depends on your decision in this cause. For the criminal is most
guilty. And if he be condemned, men will cease to say that money is all powerful
with the present tribunal; but if he be acquitted we shall cease to be able to make
any objection to transferring the tribunal to another body. Although that fellow has
not in reality any hope, nor the Roman people any fear of his acquittal, there are
some men who do marvel at his singular impudence in being present, in replying to
the accusations brought against him; but to me even this does not appear marvellous
in comparison with his other actions of audacity and madness. For he has done many
impious and nefarious actions both against gods and men; by the punishment for which
crimes he is now disquieted and driven out of his mind and out of his senses.
This text is part of:
M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge. London. George Bell & Sons. 1903.
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