1You ask me to plead the public case of the people of Firmum; 1and though I am distracted by a great many engagements, I shall make the effort. 1For I wish both to bind a most distinguished colony to me by the service of advocacy, and to bind you by a favour most welcome to you. 2For since, as you are fond of declaring, you have taken our friendship as a protection and an ornament to yourself, there is nothing I ought to refuse, especially when you are asking on behalf of your native place. 2For what is more honourable than the prayers of the dutiful, or more effective than those of one who loves?
3So pledge my word to your people of Firmum, or rather now ours; 3their own distinction promises that they are worthy of my labour and zeal, and this above all, that it is credible that those among whom such a man as you has arisen are excellent. 3Farewell.