[20]
Now, before I return to the decision, I will say a few words concerning myself. As numerous
as is the band of conspirators—and you see that it is very great,—so
numerous a multitude of enemies do I see that I have brought upon myself. But I consider them
base and powerless and despicable and abject. But if at any time that band shall be excited
by the wickedness and madness of any one, and shall show itself more powerful than your
dignity and that of the republic, yet. O conscript fathers, I shall never repent of my
actions and of my advice. Death, indeed, which they perhaps threaten me with, is prepared for
all men; such glory during life as you have honoured me with by your decrees no one has ever
attained to. For you have passed votes of congratulation to others for having governed the
republic successfully, but to me alone for having saved it
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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