As soon as Cotta saw me, You are come, says he, very seasonably; for I am having a dispute with Velleius on an important subject, which, considering the nature of your studies, is not improper for you to join in.
VII.

Indeed, says I, I think I am come very seasonably, as you say; for here are three chiefs of three principal sects met together.

If M.
Piso[81] was present, no sect of philosophy that is in any esteem would want an advocate.

If Antiochus's book, replies Cotta, which he lately sent to Balbus, says true, you have no occasion to wish for your friend Piso; for Antiochus is of the opinion that the Stoics do not differ from the Peripatetics in fact, though they do in words; and I should be glad to know what you think of that book, Balbus.

I?
says he.