He begins by reminding them that it has always been the custom of the great officers of state, who have enjoyed the right of having in their houses the busts and images of their ancestors, in their first speech to the people to join with thanks for the favors done to themselves some records of the noble deeds done by their forefathers.
[171] He, however, could do nothing of the kind: he had no such right: none in his family had achieved such dignity.

To speak of himself might seem too proud, but to be silent would be ungrateful.

Therefore would he restrain himself, but would still say something, so that he might acknowledge what he had received.

Then he would leave it for them to judge whether he had deserved what they had done for him.
"It is long ago--almost beyond the memory of us now here--since you last made a new man Consul.[172] That high office the nobles had reserved for themselves, and defended it, as it were, with ramparts.

You have secured it for me, so that in future it shall be open to any who may be worthy of it.