[
16]
Was
it for this that we assumed the garb of war, and took arms, and roused up all
the youth all over
Italy, in order
that, while we had a most flourishing and numerous army, we might send
ambassadors to treat for peace? If that peace is to be received by others, why
do we not wait to be entreated for it? If our ambassadors are to beg it, what is
it that we are afraid of? Shall I make one of this embassy, or shall I be mixed
up with this design, in which, even if I should dissent from the rest of my
colleagues, the Roman people will not know it? The result will be, that if any
thing be granted or conceded, it will be my danger if Antonius commits any
offenses, since the power to commit them will seem to have been put in his hands
by me.