1Let us now look at the main point: for which of the two the very place where they met was better suited for an ambush. 1Is that really, judges, something to be doubted and pondered at length? 1In front of Clodius' estate — the estate on which, because of those mad substructures, a good thousand strong men were easily kept busy — did Milo think he would have the upper hand from his opponent's high and lofty ground, and for that reason choose that place above all for the fight, or was he rather awaited at that place by the man who had planned to make an attack in reliance on the place itself?
1The facts speak for themselves, judges, and facts always count for most. 54If you were not hearing of these events but seeing them painted, it would still be plain which was the plotter and which was planning no harm, since one was riding in a carriage, wrapped in a cloak, with his wife sitting beside him. 54Which of these was not a great encumbrance? 54the dress, the vehicle, or the companion? 54What could be less ready for a fight, when he was entangled in a cloak, hampered by a carriage and almost tied down by his wife? — Now look at the other man, first leaving his villa suddenly: why?
54in the evening: what need was there? 54late: how does that fit, especially at that time of day? 54'He turned aside to Pompey's villa.' 54To see Pompey? 54he knew that Pompey was at his villa at Alsium; 54to inspect the villa? 54he had been in it a thousand times. 54What, then, was it? 54delay and shuffling: he did not want to leave the spot until Milo arrived.