In rank and authority these officers seemed not inferior to the ancient proconsuls; but their station was dependent and precarious.
They received and held their commissions at the will of a superior, to whose auspicious influence the merit of their action was legally attributed.

They were the representatives of the emperor.

The emperor alone was the general of the republic, and his jurisdiction, civil as well as military, extended over all the conquests of Rome.

It was some satisfaction, however, to the senate, that he always delegated his power to the members of their body.

The imperial lieutenants were of consular or praetorian dignity; the legions were commanded by senators, and the praefecture of Egypt was the only important trust committed to a Roman knight.
Within six days after Augustus had been compelled to accept so very liberal a grant, he resolved to gratify the pride of the senate by an easy sacrifice.