Letters to Atticus/2.11

by Marcus Tullius Cicero

To Atticus at Rome

Formii, April 59 BC

I tell you what it is: I feel myself a downright exile since arriving at Formiae. For at Antium there was never a day that I didn't know what was going on at Rome better than those who were there. For your letters used to show me not only what was doing at Rome, but the actual political situation also—and not only that, but also what was likely to happen. Now, unless I snatch a bit of news from some passing traveller, I can learn nothing at all. Wherefore, though I am expecting you in person, yet pray give this boy, whom I have ordered to hurry back to me at once, a bulky letter, crammed not only with all occurrences, but with what you think about them; and be careful to let me know the day you are going to leave Rome. I intend staying at Formiae till the 6th of May. If you don't come there by that day, I shall perhaps see you at Rome. For why should I invite you to Arpinum?

A rugged soil, yet nurse of hardy sons:
No dearer land can e'er my eyes behold.^[1]

So much for this. Take care of your health.

Footnotes

1. Hom. Od. 9.27.