Institutio Oratoria

[*](Verr. xxx. 76 ) The proofs, however, require the utmost variety of delivery. For to state them and distinguish between their various points, and to examine witnesses, we employ something not far removed from a colloquial tone, as is also the case in anticipating objections, which is really another form of statement. But in all these cases we sometimes deride, and sometimes mimic our opponents.

Argument, being as a rule of a livelier, more energetic and aggressive character, demands a type of gesture adapted to its style, that is to say, it should be bold and rapid. There are certain portions of our arguments that require to be pressed home with energy, and in these our style must be compact and concentrated. Digressions, as a rule, are characterised by gentleness, calm and placidity, as, for example, in Cicero's description of the Rape of Proserpine, [*](cp. IV. iii. 13. ) his picture of Sicily, [*](cp. IV. iii. 13. ) or his panegyric of Pompey. [*]( In the lost pro Cornelio: cp. IV. iii. 13. ) For naturally passages which deal with subjects lying outside the main question in dispute demand a less combative tone.