[119]
And as, while he was praetor elect, he
composed his whole edict at the pleasure of those who bought law of him to secure
their own advantage; so also, when he had entered on his office, he used to make
decrees contrary to his edict without the slightest scruple. Therefore, Lucius Piso
filled many books with the affairs in which he had interposed his authority, because
Verres had decreed in a manner contrary to his edict. And I think that you have not
forgotten what a multitude and what respectable citizens used to assemble before
Piso's seat while that man was praetor, and unless he had had him for a colleague,
he would have been stoned in the very forum. But his injuries at that time appeared
of less importance, because there was a refuge always ready in the justice and
prudence of Piso, whom men could apply to without any labour, or any trouble, or any
expense, and even without a patron to recommend them.
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M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge. London. George Bell & Sons. 1903.
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