Letter 1026: I'm overflowing with joy that the new year will see you as consul.

I overflow with joy, since the new year awaits you as consul. But for now there is need of brevity [the moment must be passed over quickly]; for I shall more fully attest a congratulation of this kind concerning you in a second letter. For the present another subject must be taken up by me. Patruinus, a most distinguished man, while preparing his journey at your summons, judged that it would be to his advantage if he relied upon my testimony. I thought that nothing would be added to him through me, and yet I did not wish to be wanting, knowing that nothing could be added to your judgment regarding him if I were to write, but that something would nonetheless be subtracted from my own duty if I were to keep silent. There is therefore one thing which I wish to be begged and entreated of you: that he may reap the favor of the labor he has undertaken, over and above that fruit which will come to him from your sight, your meeting, and your honor. Farewell.