Brutus and Cassius met once more at Sardis where they resolved to have a private conference together.

They shut themselves up in the first convenient house, with express orders to their servants to give admission to no one.17.Brutus began by reprimanding Cassius for having disposed of offices for money, which should ever be the reward of merit, and for having overtaxed the tributary states.

Cassius repelled the imputation of avarice with the more bitterness, as he knew the charge to be groundless.

The debate grew warm; till, from loud speaking, they burst into tears.18.Their friends, who were standing at the door, overheard the increasing vehemence of their voices, and began to tremble for the consequences, till Favo'nius, who valued himself upon a cynical boldness, that knew no restraint, entering the room with a jest, calmed their mutual animosity.

19.
Cassius was ready enough to forego his anger, being a man of great abilities, but of an uneven disposition; not averse to pleasure in private company, and, upon the whole, of morals not quite correct.