Chapter I

"I learn from the letters of my friends, as well as from common
report, that you give incredible proofs of virtue and fortitude,
and that you are indefatigable in all kinds of good offices. How
unhappy a man am I, that a woman of your virtue, constancy, honour,
and good nature, should fall into so great distresses upon my
account; and that my dear Tulliola should be so much afflicted for
the sake of a father, with whom she had once so much reason to be
pleased! How can I mention little Cicero, whose first knowledge of
things began with the sense of his own misery? If all this had
happened by the decrees of fate, as you would kindly persuade me, I
could have borne it. But, alas! it is all befallen me by my own
indiscretion, who thought I was beloved by those who envied me, and
did not join with them who sought my friendship.----At present,
since my friends bid me hope, I shall take care of my health, that
I may enjoy the benefit of your affectionate services.----Plancius
hopes we may some time or other come together into Italy. If I ever
live to see that day; if I ever return to your dear embraces; in
short, if I ever again recover you and myself, I shall think our
conjugal piety very well rewarded.----As for what you write to me
about selling your estate, consider (my dear Terentia), consider,
alas! what would be the event of it. If our present fortune
continues to oppress us, what will become of our poor boy? My tears
flow so fast, that I am not able to write any further; and I would
not willingly make you weep with me.----Let us take care not to
undo the child that is already undone: if we can leave him
anything, a little virtue will keep him from want, and a little
fortune raise him in the world. Mind your health, and let me know
frequently what you are doing.----Remember me to Tulliola and
Cicero."