The tribunes of the people, O Romans, would have pursued a more convenient course, if they
had said to my face, in my presence, the things which they allege to you concerning me. For
then, they would have given you an opportunity for a more just decision in the matter, and
they would have followed the usages of their predecessors, and have maintained their own
privileges and power. But, since they have shunned any open contest and debate with me at
present, now, if they please, let them come forth into the assembly which I have convened,
and though they would not come forward willingly when challenged by me, let them at least
return to it now that I openly invite them back.
M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge, B. A. London. Henry G. Bohn, York Street, Covent Garden. 1856.
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