The next year he began his struggle with the nobility by prosecuting for extortion Dolabella, a former Governor of Macedonia.

Dolabella was a favorite of the Senate, and his cause was theirs.

The best talent was engaged to defend him, and Caesar lost the case.
Feeling his deficiency as an orator, Caesar went to Rhodes and studied rhetoric under the famous Apollonius.

He had recovered his property and priesthood, and could well afford the time.

While on his way he was captured by pirates, and not released until a ransom of some $50,000 was raised and paid.