10

1010.

This methinks was the cause that made the conspiracy against Caesar increase more and more, and laid the reins of the bridle upon the soldiers' necks, whereby they durst more boldly commit many extortions, cruelties, and robberies. And therefore Caesar after his return pardoned Dolabella, being created Consul the third time, he took not Antonius, but chose Lepidus his colleague and fellow-consul. Afterwards when Pompey's house was put to open sale, Antonius bought it: but when they asked him money for it, he made it very strange, and was offended with them; and writeth himself that he would not go with Caesar into the wars of Africa, because he was not well recompensed for the service he had done him before. Yet Caesar did somewhat bridle his madness and insolency, not suffering him to pass his faults so lightly away, making as though he saw them not.

And therefore he left his dissolute manner of life, and married Fulvia that was Clodius' widow, a woman not so basely minded to spend her time in spinning and housewifery; and was not contented to master her husband at home, but would also rule him in his office abroad, and commanded him that commanded legions and great armies: so that Cleopatra was to give Fulvia thanks for that she had taught Antonius this obedience to women, that learned so well to be at their commandment. Now, because Fulvia was somewhat sour and crooked of condition, Antonius devised to make her pleasanter, and somewhat better disposed: and therefore he would play her many pretty youthful parts to make her merry. As he did once, when Caesar returned the last time of all conqueror out of Spain, every man went out to meet him, and so did Antonius with the rest. But on the sudden there ran a rumour through Italy, that Caesar was dead, and that his enemies came again with a great army. Thereupon he returned with speed to Rome, and took one of his men's gowns, and so appareled came home to his house in a dark night, saying, that he had brought Fulvia letters from Antonius. So he was let in and brought to her muffled as he was, for being known: but she, taking the matter heavily, asked him if Antonius were well. Antonius gave her the letters, and said never a word. So when she had opened the letters, and began to read them, Antonius ramped on her neck, and kissed her. We have told you this tale for example's sake only, and so could we also tell you of many such like as these.