Then he goes on to describe his own condition.[264] "You may see from this what is the state of the Republic.

As far as I am concerned, it seems that friends will not be wanting to defend me.

They offer themselves in a wonderful way, and promise assistance.

I feel great hope and still greater spirit--hope, which tells me that we shall be victors in the struggle; spirit, which bids me fear no casualty in the present state of public affairs."[265] But the matter stands in this way: "If he"-- that is, Clodius--"should indict me in court, all Italy would come to my defence, so that I should be acquitted with honor.

Should he attack me with open violence, I should have, I think, not only my own party but the world at large to stand by me.