Observing his brother’s embarrassment Torquatus changed topics.

”So, Aulus, whom do you think I should vote for in the Censorship race?”

”Surely it has to be Claudius Russus, the Hero of Spoletium?”

”I’d certainly like him to get in, but I’m sure that the Patrician vote will wrap that up for him. I’m thinking of voting for one of the Plebeian candidates.”

”Well, Licinius Crassus Dives is a respectable old gent, though he has a rather sharp tongue. Still, what Censor doesn’t these days?”

”Yes, but don’t forget Caecilius Metellus was an old drinking buddy of poor Barbula. Though he has a sharp tongue too of course – rather a fruity one if I remember his insults to Vulso! And Barbula was somewhat responsible for getting him thrown out of the Senate after the Equitius riot trial. I feel I probably owe him one! I’ll decide later.”