[139]
While it was necessary and while the ease made it inevitable, one man had all the power,
and after he created magistrates and established laws, his own proper office and
authority was restored to every one. And if those who recovered it wish to retain it,
they will be able to retain it for ever. But if they either participate in or approve of
these acts of murder and rapine, these enormous and prodigal expenses—I do not
wish to say anything too severe against them; not even as an omen; but this one thing I
do say; unless those nobles of ours are vigilant, and virtuous, and brave, and merciful,
they must abandon their honours to those men in whom these qualities do exist.
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M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge. London. George Bell & Sons. 1903.
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