A Call to Arms

I spoke for the Senate when I declared Lepidus public enemy, though I have never seen the Senate so divided on an issue brought to a vote. So long as one of our legions is unaccounted for, though, we must observe caution. I followed the majority. The decision is made. We must now accept that and raise a legion to contest Lepidus’s. It would take far too long to bring one of our legions from far away, so I recommend that we bring some of our veterans from Campania to our aid during this crisis. You, Senators, have named me as leader against our enemy. Now I ask you to give me what I need to find this man.

An army needs weapons, food, armor, and reimbursement. I know our soldiers have the heart and loyalty to march at the command of the Senate, but they are nothing without weapons and armor. No man can live without supplies, no matter how his heart bends. I also fear that our men will be hesitant to leave the homes they have built in Campania without promise of reimbursement. The Senate must stand firm against our enemy, and thus you must provide me with what I need to find Lepidus and defend Rome. Do not put frugality over security and the sanctity of Rome. I know many of you detest the idea of a general leading his troops into Rome. Take action now, and give me what I need to prevent such a familiar incident from arising again.

Now, many have stated that the issue of Caesar’s murder be dealt with after the issue of Lepidus. Why, Senators, should we let murderers sit in our midst while we chase another man to our furthest borders? We have named Lepidus our enemy; he dare not show his face in Rome lest he face the ire of the Senate and the people. Lepidus took an army and buried a man. Brutus has gathered up Senators and killed a man. Who should we focus our attentions on: the enemy in our midst, or the enemy at a distance? This is why I pursued the matter of Brutus and not the matter of Lepidus. But today I believe the matter of Brutus will be resolved. That leaves us with the matter of Lepidus. Now we must take action, for he is an ever present shadow over our proceedings.

I will depart immediately when the Senate orders, assuming I have the means to build my army. Do not delay in your decision, for I cannot leave unprepared. Now is not the time for squabbling or stalling. I have kept my message brief. Please, make your deliberations likewise. Give me the means to pursue Lepidus, and I give you my word that real action will be taken.