C. Suvetonii Tranquilli De XII Caesaribus libri VIII. Isaacus Casaubonus iterum recensuit. Accessit ejusdem Animadversionum appendicula. Additi etiam sunt Suetonii libelli De illustribus grammaticis

For to me, my country, and if there is anything dearer than my country, faith, seemed to be at stake. It turned out prosperously, and for that reason, that action opened the ears of men to me, that action opened the gate of fame. Therefore, consider whether you, too, might turn this dream to the good following this example, or if you think it safer, rewrite that precept of every most cautious man: Do not do that of which you are in doubt. I will find some trick, and I will plead your case so that you may plead it yourself when you wish. For your situation is truly one thing, and mine was another; for a centumviral trial a court of one hundred judges for civil cases cannot be postponed in any way, but that one of yours can be, though with difficulty. Farewell.

Pliny seeks advice from Suet. Explain my agitation. I hear that I read verses poorly, but speeches more comfortably, though that much less so for verses. I am thinking, therefore, when I am about to recite to familiar friends, to test my freedman. This is also familiar, that I chose one who I know will not read well, but better; provided he is not disturbed, for he is as new a reader as I am a poet. Should I myself do something meanwhile while he is reading, sit fixed and mute, and seem like an idle person? Or (as some do) should I follow with murmur, eyes, and hand what he will pronounce? But I think I dance no less poorly than I read. I will say it again,