I know not how it comes to pass . . . . all the provincials say; to do many things also more laboriously than the case itself requires: memoranda of the trials, lastly all letters which relate to the province. They will assist you . . . .1 that you should diligently perform all your duties . . . .2 treat the provincials with respect, that the saying of the classic ancients may be verified, that the same man can be both sportive and strenuous. Valerianus3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 ; nor was our friend Valerianus able to see me. I desire not to be loved by our Lords the Emperors5 on any other terms than that you too the partner of my body and mind should be included in their love: and such is their good nature I feel sure that this will be so.
While writing to you, I feel a little better. I am still indeed at this time after my most protracted ill-health, which in spite of care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . roughly handled, I delivered in the Senate . . . .6 was asked to repeat it. Be sure, my Naucellius, to take care of your health, that you may be strong when you come to us. Please God you will find me too a little stronger. Our friend Valerianus has told you the great blows, which from all (quarters) . . . .7 I have treated him more firmly than Stratonabia or Pyrallus.8 A linen covering . . . . . . . .9
Fronto to Marcus Antoninus as Emperor
162 A.D.
To my Lord.10
. . . .