Publius Claudius Nero was dozing in front of the brazier in his bedroom. He was tired after dictating scores of letters to potential supporters of his bid for the Consulship. Almost time for bed, he thought. Just then a quiet voice spoke into his right ear, causing him to jump towards the ceiling.

”Psst! Guv!”

Knowing now who this visitor must be, Nero turned. Grand Brother Franco of the Collegium Immortalium Asinorum stood behind him. How did he manage it, thought Nero? His Villa was well guarded - very well guarded. Perhaps Franco knew some secret ways in; he was a local after all.

”What in Hades do you want?”

”Just a last word before you go, Guv. You remember that that Quaestor chap who was here before you wrote recommending our services? Well, will you do the same with whoever comes to take your place? All those little jobs we did for you were really profitable – me and the lads would be up for more of those!”