[4]
My client, being this man's son, although he had never seen his father,
still under the guidance of nature herself,—who is a
very powerful guide,—and instigated by the continual conversation
of every one in his family, was naturally led on to adopt a similar line of
conduct to that of his father. He engaged in extensive business. He entered
into many contracts. He took a great share of the public revenues. He
trusted different nations. His transactions spread over many provinces. He
devoted himself also to the service of kings. He had already previously lent
a large sum of money to this very king of Alexandria; and in the meantime he
never ceased enriching his friends; sending them on commissions; giving them
a share in his contracts; increasing their estates or supporting them with
his credit. Why need I say more? He gave a faithful representation of his
father's career and habits of life in his own magnanimity and liberality.
In the meantime, Ptolemaeus being expelled from his kingdom with treachery,
with evil designs (as the Sibyl said, expression of which Postumus found out
the meaning) came to Rome. This unhappy man lent him money, as he was in
want and asked for it; and that was not the first time, (for he had lent him
money before while he was king, without seeing him.) And he thought that he
was not lending his money rashly, because no one doubted that he would be
restored to his kingdom by the senate and people of Rome.
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