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Others say that he is willing to
give up the nearer Gaul to us, and that
he will be satisfied with the farther Gaul. Very kind of him! in order that from thence be may
endeavor to bring not merely legions, but even nations against this city. Others
say that he makes no demands now but such as are quite moderate. Macedonia he calls absolutely his own, since
it was from thence that his brother Caius was recalled. But what province is
there in which that fire-brand may not kindle a conflagration? Therefore those
same men like provident citizens and diligent senators, say that I have sounded
the charge, and they undertake the advocacy of peace. Is not this the way in
which they argue? “Antonius ought not to have been irritated; he is a
reckless and a bold man; there are many bad men besides him.” (No
doubt, and they may begin and count themselves first.) And they warn us to be on
our guard against them. Which conduct then is it which shows the more prudent
caution; chastising wicked citizens when one is able to do so, or fearing them?
M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge. London. George Bell & Sons. 1903.
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