in speculation. But even his rhetoric will never be able to convince
me that it is better to be at this sort of work than to spend whole
days in attending his lectures and learning his precepts. I cannot
therefore but strongly recommend it to you, who have the time for
it, when next you come to town (and you will come, I daresay, so
much the sooner for this), to take the benefit of his elegant and
refined instructions. For I do not (as many do) envy others the
happiness I cannot share with them myself: on the contrary, it is a
very sensible pleasure to me when I find my friends in possession
of an enjoyment from which I have the misfortune to be excluded.
Farewell.

VII

To FABIUS JUSTUS

IT is a long time since I have had a letter from you, "There is
nothing to write about," you say: well then write and let me know
just this, that "there is nothing to write about," or tell me in the
good old style, If you are well that's right, I am quite well. This
will do for me, for it implies everything. You think I am joking?
Let me assure you I am in sober earnest. Do let me know how you
are; for I cannot remain ignorant any longer without growing
exceedingly anxious about you. Farewell.

VIII

To CALESTRIUS TIRO

I HAVE suffered the heaviest loss; if that word be sufficiently