To the Fathers of the Senate:

Fellow Senators,

I would like to apologize for not clearing up matters of the burial of my son-in-law Caesar in our earlier meeting. As you have heard, he took the body of Caesar from the house of my daughter Calpurnia without my knowledge. I am not criticizing Lepidus on this matter. I know Lepidus acted honorably and did his duty to appease his troops. I ask those opposed to funeral games; please take kindly upon the fact that this was a funeral for Caesar the General, not Caesar as family or friend. I was not aware of the burial until after it took place and therefore could not properly pay my respects. I am sure many other Senators have been thrust into this position as well.

There is another issue concerning Lepidus that I must address at once. He had the power to bury Caesar because he has command of an army that was loyal to Caesar. Lepidus is no longer Magister Equitum and as of yet we have not re-assigned him to any public office. As a private citizen he has no authority to lead an army. We must discuss this at once in the Senate. Should we disband the army? Should we send it elsewhere? Shouold we give command to another magistrate? He has deliberately attacked and threatened the Senate and the very Republic we are all fighting for! He is crying for warfare and bloodshed. The duty of the Senate is to discuss proper actions for the good of the state. We are not bloodthirsty warriors or gladiators roaming about for a kill! When has anyone ever seen the fornication of small boys take place in the Senate? What a ridiculous and vicious attack! Lepidus, please see reason. I do not want an enemy, but you will have no friends in the Senate if you continue your rash behavior.

I look forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting.

Piso