It was communicated only, I.To the consuls and patricians; II.

To the Praetorian praefects, with the praefects of Rome and Constantinople; III.

To the masters-general of the cavalry and the infantry; and IV.

To the seven ministers of the palace, who exercised their sacred functions about the person of the emperor.

[78] Among those illustrious magistrates who were esteemed coordinate with each other, the seniority of appointment gave place to the union of dignities.