The persons to whom they are addressed are already known to us: "To the very distinguished MR.

HENRY DE BRASS.
"Having been hindered these days past by some occupations, illustrious Sir, I reply later than I meant.

For I meant to do so all the more speedily because I saw that your present letter, full of learning as it is, did not so much leave me room for suggesting anything to you (a thing which you ask of me, I believe, out of compliment to me, not for your own need) as for simple congratulation.

I congratulate myself especially on my good fortune in having, as it appears, so suitably explained Sallust's meaning, and you on your so careful perusal of that most wise author with so much benefit from the same.

Respecting him I would venture to make the same assertion to you as Quintilian made respecting Cicero,--that a man may know himself no mean proficient in the business of History who enjoys his Sallust.