Following her husband's wishes and ideas, Cornelia continued along much as she had for more than a few years - running the entire 'show.' All except her son-in-laws, and a few of the family's closest adherents knew exactly of Pompeius' Magnus' health status; none knew of what he and his wife planned, yet.

Dacia standing behind her, Cornelia attacked her responses to the variety of missives that had come lately witha speed Caesar would have admired. First, Cassius.

L.Cassius Long.,

What a pleasure to receive something from you. As far from Rome as Picenum is, we do get news fairly quickly. Servilia also writes often. I am glad to understand that you of all people have been appointed to help my father from his situation. I know Caesar had planned to go against Parthia and avenge my late father-in-law and my first husband who served him as an able legate in Gaul. But I can't help but think that in some ways, this is better. We have two stallions in the paddock, and we don't want to give them a reason to fight over the herd prematurely. Rome needs a rest, and I would for once would like to enjoy the presence of one of my husbands for more than a few months per marriage. Besides, as you know-or maybe you don't-, my son-in-law C. Pompeius Minor is in Antioch at the moment. As well known as your name is in Syria, I think there is a greater chance of success.

Why don't you come to Picenum and pay the family a visit? Sextus is here, with his daughter, and I know my husband would be glad for the company. He needs some warriors around him, not just a fussy wife. Perhaps a solution can be found to any problems you might have in dealing with Parthia.

With Greatest Regards,

Cornelia M.Scip. Pompeii

With her normal calm satisfaction, Cornelia sealed the scroll with her husband's signet. Handing it to the scribe, she started on the next.

Dearest C. Pompeius,

My son, I hope this little missive finds you well. Your father is doing extremely well, and we had a very pleasant ride early this morning. He had a lot to say, all of it good. He is very pleased with your progress, and tells me he wants you to be prepared for anything in the next few months. Cavalry was something he suggested you should definitely look into.He was also glad to hear that this young tribune, Lucius Agrippa, is doing so well. I know its not a great name, but sometimes those can make the best of adherents.Rome has changed so much in the last 20 years, its good to have some very loyal men around.

We hope to see Cassius very soon here in Picenum. No doubt he and your father will have a lot to talk about. Especially regarding money.If he doesn't, I do.

On the family front your brother Sextus is a tata. Mother and daughter thrive, but there is a little bit of unconventionality in the naming of her. I'll let your father deal with that in good time. Yes, I hear you gasp, but thanks to Cato, this is just going to have to be left to the Paterfamilias. I would probably have to have four slaves to keep her from walloping me, if she was having a bad day- she still can be unpredictable in her passions and does not fully trust me. I suspect she still aligns me with her aunt Servilia, though I cannot agree with Servilia that she is some hopeless deranged awful creature. I suspect her father was remorseless with her, and in time Sextus and stability will help her calm.

Expect more to come from us soon, in this part of the Empire. Long live Rome.

Love,

Cornelia.

This second one she handed to Dacia. "Give it to Gallatus. But he goes with Mogi." Dacia bowed and left quickly.

The last she saved for Servilia.

Dearest friend,

May your ancestors keep you, how are you? Do not worry, I do not suffer so much away from Rome. The air here is clean, and its nice to have a husband around the house. You at least have your daughters and your sons to keep you company, so perhaps you do not feel the lack so keenly. Something tells me you are much happier being the mother in law of Octavia than Porcia. I admit Porica is a handful, but you do exaggerate sometimes my dear.

Thanks for your kind thoughts regarding my father. I do want him home safely. It will be easier then should Magnus take to the field again. We have asked Cassius to visit before he leaves, but no doubt you will hear more from Cassius than we do before then.

Please write about the Symposium you say you have been invited to. I confess that I do miss those sorts of things being away from Rome. Its just not the sort of thing I can enjoy with my husband. However, we will return to Rome in due course.I suspect in the next few months. Those wishing to run for Tribunes of the soldiers and other political offices must make themselves seen.

Best Regards,

Cornelia

With an internal sigh of contentment, Cornelia sealed this last letter. Servilia would chatter about an impending return to Rome, with all the speculation it would entail over her husband's health. Were they returning for Sextus? For Magnus? Or were they just returning because the Great Patrician Lady simply couldn't take being out in the sticks anymore with her overly passionate daughter in law of Cato?

This last she handed to her scribe. "Be sure and collect anything from the Lady Porcia before you send this packet back to Rome."

"Yes, Domina." The scribe bowed and was gone. From there Cornelia went to take her bath. She wanted a nice long soak.