It had been a hard morning's work. In absence of superior magistrates of the Republic, Senatus had taken up again discussion on Lex Leania Agraria. After granting of Roman citizenship to the provinces years ago, with Lex Iulia De Civitate, number of citizens had grown exponentially, making necessary to reorganize municipii and colonies, and their settlement patterns. In this situation, Tribunus Lea had submitted a proposal to restructure distribution of villages, which was now being considered by Censor office, Consules, Princeps Senatus and senators.

Marcus Aemilius had just left the Curia, and walked absent-minded through the Forum. Old Flamen Dialis was tired, his age started to be felt. Really wanted to arrive home, sit and rest. He was about to take vicus Iugarius when a voice behind made him turn. A pilferer crossed the square at full speed with a bag in his hand, dodging people trying to stop him. Was an agile guy. He had just passed between legs of a pretty big man, and was about to pass the old senator.

Guessing old man thoughts, the boy feinted and dodged his hands. A moment later, however, he rolled on the ground losing the bag. Marcus was a shrewd old bird, and had slipped his cane under boy's feet. Rascal got up quickly and, after shooting him a look full of hatred, disappeared again into the crowd.

Marcus Aemilius bent down to pick up the bag, handing it to its owner, a nice girl with a beautiful smile. At such times he understood again feelings of Marcus Aurelius and Aemilia. Perhaps he was not that old!

He picked up his cane and went his way. Perhaps Aemilia had news from their friend...