er, out of fear of the dangers they
might be in thereby, although they perceived by other means their mutual
hatred against Caius, and on that account were not averse to a mutual
kindness one towards another.

9. When Minuetanus and Cherea had met together, and saluted one another,
[as they had been used on former conversations to give the upper hand
to Minucianus, both on account of his eminent dignity, for he was the
noblest of all the citizens, and highly commended by all men, especially
when he made speeches to them,] Minuetanus began first, and asked
Cherea, What was the watchword he had received that day from Caius;
for the affront which was offered Cherea, in giving the watchwords, was
famous over the city. But Cherea made no delay so long as to reply to
that question, out of the joy he had that Minueianus would have such
confidence in him as to discourse with him. "But do thou," said he,
"give me the watchword of liberty. And I return thee my thanks that thou
hast so greatly encouraged me to exert myself after an extraordinary
manner; nor do I stand in need of many words to encourage me, since both
thou and I are of the same mind, and partakers of the same resolutions,
and this before we have conferred together. I have indeed but one sword
girt on, but this one will serve us both. Come on, therefore, let us set
about the work. Do thou go first, if thou hast a mind, and bid me follow
thee; or else I will go first, and thou shalt assist me, and we will
assist one another, and trust one another. Nor is there a necessity for
even one sword to such as have a mind disposed to such works, by which
mind the sword uses to be successful. I am zealous about this action,
nor am I solicitous what I may myself undergo; for I can not at leisure
to consider the dangers that may come upon myself, so deeply am I
troubled at the slavery our once free country is now under, and at the
contempt cast upon our excellent laws, and at the destruction which
hangs over all men, by the means of Caius. I wish that I may be judged
by thee, and that thou mayst esteem me worthy of credit in these
matters, seeing we are both of the same opinion, and there is herein no
difference between us."

10. When Minucianus saw the vehemency with which Cherea delivered
himself, he gladly embraced him, and encouraged him in his bold attempt,
commending him, and embracing him; so he let him go with his good
wishes; and some affirm that he thereby confirmed M