A letter, as you say, dear Cicero, does not blush. Wherefore, I write you. And I know, you being a philosopher and a man of imagination, will understand the license I take with Time. Pray, was it not one of your own countrymen who said: "Time does not go; we go?" But to come to my business.

I have recently been reading some of your letters to T. Pomponius Atticus. Are you surprised? And here I would ask you: Did you mean these epistles one day to be given to the public? I should doubt it. But whether yes or no the trick is done. Leave such things to our age. Your life, dear friend, is quite an open book! And now, but only because I love you, I tell you that some of your remarks to L. Lucceius, the historian, pleading that he speak favorably of you--even beyond the truth if necessary make a pretty immodest page. But pray, let not this trouble you. In this day we separate a man's character from his works. And you are at least an artist, dear Cicero.

But tell me, do you like my style? It is some-what after your own, you know. I learn from what you have written your son Marcus you hold letter writing to be one of the arts. Alas, dear one, it is an art we have lost today. Why? Because we are too busy. For example, Ciccro, should I want to communicate with Mussolini and tell him what an ass he is--even as you would tell Caesar--I need not take a reed pen and write on parchment and thence by messenger to Rome; no I need but take up an instrument and can speak to him direct. Does this amaze you? But I assure you, friend, what we gain in time, we lose in thoroughness and art.

And now listen: I have saved the sweetest part of my letter to the last. Your ears ought to burn today! One of my countrymen, Professor Pease, speaks about you this afternoon. Are you not glad? Will it not please you, dear Cicero, to hear about yourself: Your letters; your philosophy; your orations--even your private life? Fear not, in this latter matter the professor will be discreet. But how is Publilia? I shall be waiting to meet you.

Note: I nearly forgot. It will be at Emerson Hall at 4:30. And will you bring young Marcus?

The Tower. 25 February.