Note 833 — Chapter II · (684-691.)

“In these later years, the men who make a trade of intriguing in elections have been enabled, by diligence and address, to obtain from the citizens of their tribes all that they chose to demand. Endeavour, by any means you will, to make these men serve you sincerely and with the steadfast will to succeed. You would obtain it if men were as grateful as they ought to be; and you will obtain it, I am afraid, since, for two years, four societies of those most influential in elections—those of Marcus Fundanius, Quintas Gallius, Gaius Cornelius, and Gaius Orcivius—have engaged themselves for you. I was present when the causes of these men were entrusted to you, and I know what was promised to you, and what guarantees have been given to you by their associates.” (On the Petition for the Consulship addressed to Cicero by his brother Quintus, 5.)