Consuls consulted the heavens falsely; Tribunes used their veto violently; judges accepted bribes openly; the votes of the people were manipulated fraudulently.

In the trial and escape of Rabirius, the laws were despised by those who pretended to vindicate them.

Clodius had now become a Tribune by the means of certain legal provision, but yet in opposition to all law.

In the conduct of the affair against Catiline Cicero seems to have been actuated by pure patriotism, and to have been supported by a fine courage; but he knew that in destroying Lentulus and Cethegus he subjected himself to certain dangers.

He had willingly faced these dangers for the sake of the object in view.