In Epistulae ad Familiares 13.63, Cicero recommends Marcus Laenius to Publius Silius Nerva (then propraetor of Bithynia and Pontus) by combining an affectionate confession of running out of words with high praise for Laenius's character, integrity, and personal services. [1, 2, 3]

The references listed in your prompt (V 20, V 21, VI 1, and VI 13) do not refer to alternate books of the Letters to Friends. Rather, they reflect alternative numbering systems used by different editors (such as Shuckburgh or Tyrrell-Purser) to classify this exact same letter chronologically. [1, 2, 3]

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The Latin Text and Translation (Ad Familiares 13.63)

The letter, found in full at, begins with a rhetorical flourish where Cicero claims that for once, his words fail him when trying to recommend Marcus Laenius. He describes his immense regard for Laenius, shared by his brother Quintus, citing Laenius's character, integrity, and personal services. Cicero emphasizes his personal loss in Laenius's departure, citing their close friendship and his reliance on Laenius's sound advice. He closes by asking Silius to expedite Laenius’s business in the province, calling him a man of easy temperament and generosity, a sentiment echoed in translations available at. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Key Themes of Cicero's Recommendation

• The "Short of Words" Hyperbole: Cicero uses a rhetorical tool by claiming that he—Rome's greatest orator—is left speechless by how much he values Laenius. [1, 2]
• Fraternal Endorsement: He stresses that the affection for Laenius is shared equally by his brother, Quintus Cicero. [1]
• Character Witness: He specifically highlights Laenius's honesty (probitas), restraint (modestia), and generous nature (liberalitas). [1]
• Actionable Request: He explicitly asks Silius to use his provincial authority to resolve Laenius's business affairs quickly so he can return home safely. [1, 2]

If you are researching Cicero's network of provincial interests, would you like me to look into the specific business affairs Laenius was conducting in Bithynia, or analyze Silius's governorship during this period? [1]