Letter 23

Reply. When did this happen, and was it at Rome? Are you referring to the incident under Domitian at his Alban villa? Besides, with a theme like this, it will take more work to make the event believable than to stir anger over it. It looks to me like an improbable case, not rich in the sparkle I asked for. Write back at once about the date.

145–147 A.D. When did it occur and was it at Rome? Do you mean that it took place under Domitian at his Alban Villa. Besides in such a theme it will take more time to make the fact credible than to treat it with the indignation it deserves. It seems to me an improbable subject. I certainly should have preferred one such as I asked for. Let me know the date by return.

ad M. Caesarem 5.38 [75 Hout; 1.210 Haines] Rescriptum. Quando id factum et an Romae? Num illud dicis in Albano factum sub Domitiano? Praeterea in hac materia diuitius laborandum est, ut factum credatur, quam ut irascatur. ἀπίθανος ὑπόθεσις videtur mihi haud plena balucis, qualem petieram. Rescribe statim de tempore.