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THE SIXTH ORATION OF M. T. CICERO AGAINST MARCUS ANTONIUS. CALLED ALSO THE SIXTH PHILIPPIC. ADDRESSED TO THE PEOPLE.
1.
We are consulted to day about matters of small importance, but still perhaps
necessary, O conscript fathers. The consul submits a motion to us about the
Appian road and about the coinage; the tribune of the people one about the
Luperci. And although it seems easy to settle such matters as those, still my
mind can not fix itself on such subjects, being anxious about more important
matters. For our affairs, O conscript fathers, are come to a crisis, and are in
a state of almost extreme danger. It is not without reason that I have always
feared and never approved of that sending of ambassadors. And what their return
is to bring us I know not; but who is there who does not see with how much
languor the expectation of it infects our minds? For those men put no restraint
on themselves who knew that the senate has revived so as to entertain hopes of
its former authority, and that the Roman people is united to this our order;
that all Italy is animated by one
common feeling; that armies are prepared, and generals ready for the armies;
[2]
even already they are inventing replies
for Antonius and defending them. Some pretend that his demand is that all the
armies be disbanded. I suppose then we sent ambassadors to him, not that he
should submit and obey this our body, but that he should offer us conditions,
impose laws upon us, order us to open Italy to foreign nations; especially while we were to leave him
in safety from whom there is more danger to be feared than from any nation
whatever.
[3]
Others say that he is willing to
give up the nearer Gaul to us, and that
he will be satisfied with the farther Gaul. Very kind of him! in order that from thence be may
endeavor to bring not merely legions, but even nations against this city. Others
say that he makes no demands now but such as are quite moderate. Macedonia he calls absolutely his own, since
it was from thence that his brother Caius was recalled. But what province is
there in which that fire-brand may not kindle a conflagration? Therefore those
same men like provident citizens and diligent senators, say that I have sounded
the charge, and they undertake the advocacy of peace. Is not this the way in
which they argue? “Antonius ought not to have been irritated; he is a
reckless and a bold man; there are many bad men besides him.” (No
doubt, and they may begin and count themselves first.) And they warn us to be on
our guard against them. Which conduct then is it which shows the more prudent
caution; chastising wicked citizens when one is able to do so, or fearing them?
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