Tusculum, June 26, B.C. 44
The messenger I sent to Brutus just got back yesterday, Servilia told him Brutus had started at half-past six in the morning. I was very sorry he did not get my letters. Silius has not come yet. I have drawn up a statement of his case, and am sending the pamphlet to you. I should like to know when to expect you.
XXV
CICERO TO ATTICUS, GREETING.
Tusculum, June 29, B.C. 44
Opinions differ about my journey, for I have had a lot of visitors. But please apply yourself to the question. It is a serious matter. Do you approve of my idea of returning by the 1st of January? I am open-minded on the subject, provided I don't give any offence. By the way, too, do you know the date of the sacrilege of yore?[[285]] However that may be, chance will decide the plan of my journey. So let us leave it in doubt. For a winter journey is most unpleasant, and that was why I asked you the date of the mysteries.[[286]] Brutus, as you say, I think I shall see. I want to leave here on the last of the month.
[285]. If the reading is right, which is very uncertain, this must refer to the violation of the rites of Bona Dea by Clodius in Cicero's consulship. It may, however, refer to the Olympic games as Shuckburgh suggests.
[286]. Vide last note. Shuckburgh, however, thinks it refers to the Eleusinian mysteries.
358
XXVI
CICERO ATTICO SAL.
Scr. in Arpinati VI Non. Quint. a. 710