"I thought you would soon be back.

I am glad you have come, for Giscon here grows monotonous as a companion.

Nature in making him forgot to give him that spice of humour which is to existence what seasoning is to meat.

I am ready to fight if it comes to fighting, to orate if talking is necessary, and to do anything else which may be within the limits of my powers, but I can't for the life of me take matters as if the existence of the state depended on me alone.

I have already heard that all is well with you at home.