A Roman citizen, Artemidorus, was on his way to the Capitol early. As he went he read over the letter he had written: “Caesar, beware of Brutus: take heed Of Cassius: don’t go near Casca: keep your eye on Cinna: don’t trust Trebonius: watch Metellus Cimber closely: Decius Brutus hates you: you have wronged Caius Ligarius. These men have only one thing in their minds, and it’s bent against Caesar. If you’re not immortal keep your eyes open. Over confidence leaves the way open to conspiracy. The mighty gods defend you. Your friend, Artemidorus.”

He would stand at the foot of the stairs to the Capitol until Caesar passed along. He would pose as a petitioner and give it to him. He was sad that good men couldn’t live without being bitten by envy. If Caesar read the letter he might live. If not it would mean that the fates were conspiring with traitors.