Philippics, 11.16

Cicero  translated by C. D. Yonge

« Cic. Phil. 11.15 | Cic. Phil. 11.16 | Cic. Phil. 11.17 | About This Work »

16VII. Now, since Dolabella has been pronounced a public enemy, he must be pursued by war. For he himself will not remain quiet. He has a legion with him; he has troops of runaway slaves, he has a wicked band of impious men; he himself is confident, intemperate, and bent on falling by the death of a gladiator. Wherefore, since, as Dolabella was voted an enemy by the decree which was passed yesterday, war must be waged, we must necessarily appoint a general.

Two opinions have been advanced; neither of which do I approve. The one, because I always think it dangerous unless it be absolutely necessary; the other, because I think it wholly unsuited to the emergency.

« Cic. Phil. 11.15 | Cic. Phil. 11.16 | Cic. Phil. 11.17 | About This Work »