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THE SIXTH ORATION OF M. T. CICERO AGAINST MARCUS ANTONIUS. CALLED ALSO THE SIXTH PHILIPPIC. ADDRESSED TO THE PEOPLE.
14.
[34]
But one thing I am afraid you may not approve of. For if I had really been one of
their number, I should have not only got rid of the king, but of the kingly
power also out of the republic; and if I had been the author of the piece, as it
is said, believe me, I should not have been contented with one act, but should
have finished the whole play. Although, if it be a crime to have wished that
Caesar might be put to death, beware, I pray you, O Antonius, of what must be
your own case, as it is notorious that you, when at Narbo, formed a plan of the same sort with Caius Trebonius; and
it was on account of your participation in that design that, when Caesar was
being killed, we saw you called aside by Trebonius But I (see how far I am from
any horrible inclination toward,) praise you for having once in your life had a
righteous intention; I return you thanks for not having revealed the matter; and
I excuse you for not having accomplished your purpose.
[35]
That exploit required a man.
And if any one should institute a prosecution against you, and employ that test
of old Cassius, “who reaped any advantage from it?” take
care, I advise you, lest you suit that description. Although, in truth, that
action was, as you used to say, an advantage to every one who was not willing to
be a slave, still it was so to you above all men, who are not merely not a
slave, but are actually a king; who delivered yourself from an enormous burden
of debt at the temple of Ops; who, by your dealings with the account-books,
there squandered a countless sum of money; who have had such vast treasures
brought to you from Caesar's house; at whose own house there is set up a most
lucrative manufactory of false memoranda and autographs, and a most iniquitous
market of lands, and towns, and exemptions, and revenues.
[36]
In truth, what measure except the death of Caesar could
possibly have been any relief to your indigent and insolvent condition? You
appear to be somewhat agitated. Have you any secret fear that you yourself may
appear to have had some connection with that crime? I will release you from all
apprehension; no one will ever believe it; it is not like you to deserve well of
the republic; the most illustrious men in the republic are the authors of that
exploit; I only say that you are glad it was done; I do not accuse you of having
done it.
I have replied to your heaviest accusations, I must now also reply to the rest of
them.
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