"People of Rome! I stand before you today as a supplicant. I stand today at your mercy. I stand as someone offering myself in your service, and at the service of Rome. I have come before you today to announce my candidacy for Praetor in the forthcoming elections.

"This year, I have served you as Tribune of the Plebs. I have led the College in a very successful year, where we have had many debates before you. It has been some time since we have such lively debates here on the Rostra! I have felt honoured to be part of such a talented and devoted College to have represented you this year.

"Not only have I spoken here on the Rostra, but I have made voice heard in the Senate. In the interests of furthering our control of Rome, I have proposed laws in the Senate to make our empire stronger - making those territories occupied by our forces full provinces, so that they are governed better, and will be part of the Senatorial Commission to negotiate a settlement with King Jugurtha of Numidia.

"As Praetor, I shall continue to make sure that the mos maiorum is upheld, and that the ancient traditions of Rome - that have held us in good stead for these hundreds of years - are maintained. Just as I have defended Roman citizens in court as a successful advocate, I shall defend our Republic against all assaults.

"I am not against change if it can be shown to benefit Rome, however. I have shown this by supporting my colleague Tiberius Gallus in his efforts to give our poorest citizens the chance once more to become farmers, indeed by invested 50,000 D of my own money into his project so that its efficacy could be proved.

"I pledge to defend Rome, the mos maiorum and the interests of all Roman citizens as Praetor - I urge you to vote for me as Praetor!"