Concerning Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus

Fathers of the Senate, we find ourselves in a struggle of power with the threat of war. As the actions of the young Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus are neither ideal nor under official senatorial command, we are at a critical peak and must take every caution possible. The fact that Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus has refused to adhere to the Senate and will not return is crucial. This is certainly an example of the rash of a nineteen year old. However, it also shows the boy’s zeal and devotion to the image and wishes of his adopted father. I do not believe that Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus intends to harm Rome because he provided no direct threat to the Senate unlike Lepidus. Therefore, the immediate threat is Lepidus. I will address both of these men at once because they have the ability to become directly connected. I have done my best to try to prevent war, and I still believe we can, but I cannot control the actions of Lepidus if he so chooses to march on Rome. I will still make it my goal to prevent a colossal and deadly engagement. The unfortunate and I admit frightening truth is that the Senate has no legions in Rome. If war is brought to our gates, we have no way to protect ourselves. To diplomatically ask Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus to step down from his position or send a senator to resume control of his legions is foolish. Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus has already denied our request to return and we do not have more time to waste. My biggest fear is that if we do not take action, Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus may be convinced to join forces with Lepidus and war will be inevitable. My suggestion is to take his loyalty to his father and appease him to apply it to the Senate. We can use his enthusiasm to help protect the city if we are attacked by Lepidus. Because Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus is adamant on carrying the wishes of his father with the Parthian campaign, we should give him permission to do so. Parthia is at a constant struggle with our borders and Rome cannot afford to have foreign conflicts at this time. It would give Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus the military experience he needs, while our permission and support will strengthen his ties with the Senate. Since our internal affairs are of the utmost importance, we should send a messenger stating that the Senate will give full approval of the Parthian campaign if he will provide military assistance against Lepidus. Some of you may disagree and claim his legions are not necessary against Lepidus if Dolabella is able to secure more troops from the provinces and Decimus Brutus. Those legions alone might be able to conquer Lepidus; however, if we have roughly sixteen to twenty legions against Lepidus’ five legions then we may be able to intimidate him into retreating and returning to Rome. Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus can also remind the armies that Lepidus no longer has legal control over them and, as a fellow supporter of the belated Caesar, may be able to persuade these men to declare loyalty to the Republic and Senate. Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus will have the honor of protecting Rome’s interests in the image of his father. I doubt he will refuse this glory. Remember, conscript fathers, time is running out and we must take every step possible to eliminate this crisis and regain firm control over the Republic. If the Senate uses my suggestions, I believe bloodshed can be prevented. We can save more lives than just the citizens within the walls of Rome. We can save the lives of our soldiers, generals, and leaders. Conscript fathers; let us finally restore order and bring peace to Rome!