The Will of the Senate - Senate Deliberations

Romans, I will rephrase my suggestion in order to make life alightly easier on our scribes:

Motion 9: I propose thatout Consul with the I legion marches north and extends roman law to Arretium and Ariminium. The II legion should march south and prevent Pyrros from entering roman land, but allow him to disperse his men and resources in the southern italian cities.

I also agree in that tradeshould be seekedwith our neighbours as soon asthis is possible-we can use themoneyto fight Pyrros, rather than rebel slaves. Although I know most of you here would be more interested in the slaves, specially female. But it is the glory of Rome what is at stake.

Nay. O Master of the Swords, the threat presented by this rogue Pyrrhus is simply too dangerous for us Romans to allow him to live much longer, especially if he chooses to walk around Italia with his armies. The threat simply must be eliminated, and any allowance of Pyrrhus to build up a base on our lovely Italian soil is simply too risky, unnecessarily so. Also, sending merely one Legion will surely spell doom for Rome, as the destruction of a Legion and having only one other remaining means that the Greek upstart will be able to take our undefended cities! That is an outrageous suggestion, which I condemn.

Before I forget, my dutch colleague, from reading your posts, I assume that you second motions 1 and 2? Your aggression to Pyrrhus shows you have joined the wiser senators, and your proposal of sending Legio III to capture cities clearly shows that you wish to raise Legio III.

Motion 3 reads as follows:

MOTION 3: This house approves of motions 1 and 2, but proposes that all three legions be sent to Southern Italia to combat Pyrrhus.

So indeed, I do agree to motion 1 and 2.

Motion 3 contains these motions but strengthens my view of the matter. Namely that Legion III will be used to combat Pyrrhus.

Although I do wish to say, not that motion number 1 is unclear at all, that we should only assume control of the cities ( Paesium, Corfinium ) when Pyrrhus is no more.

:balloon2:

Oh, no, Tiberius, you misunderstand. I do not wish Pyrros in Italy any more than you do, but I want him to separate his forces, wreck the solid rock, so that the smaller pieces can be easily engulfed by roman strength.

Our southern legion should only discourage him from a foolish attempt of entering roman territory, fighting defensive battles at most, or, even better, limt themselves to short skirmishes and avoid the enemy until theConsul has finished in the North and can march south with a third legion to - only then - take war to Pyrros.

Our men do not mind who they fight on the walls of Rhegion, but they will be pleased to know that the enemy is not at full strength.

Patience, my friends, is one of the better virtues. If we are victorious at a great price or - Jupiter protect us - beaten by the greek king, it will take us a long time to recover and expand our domains, while if we do as I propose, Rome will be already enjoying the rich northern farmlands, and taxes while having another legion to defend our right to unite Italy.

I also approve motion 2, for the creation of a third legion will greatly aid, and speedup the much needed expansion of our territories.

Master econ, could you please edit the first motion? What I had meant earlier was that once the Pyrrhic threat is gone, the Legio I and II immediately take Croton and Tarentum. Also, could you please add in the names of any senators who had proposed or supported a motion that was to do with a third legion as seconders of motion 2? Without my second proposal passed, their proposals would all disappear, which I do not think they would like to see.

Master of Swords, this talk of patience is un-Roman and cowardly! Our Roman units outclass those of the Greek, and what should happen if Pyrrhus besieges Roma? Would you send in eighty men at a time and hope to separate his forces? No, the threat is too great. Besides, young Romans are anxious for war, eager to prove themselves worthy of the title 'Sons of Mars' on the battlefield. Glory to Rome!

My fellow senators we must not let Pyorrus grow any stronger. Thereforth i propose motion 10: A consular army is raised and sent to engage the Greeks in the field under the command of the 1st consol.
Also I second motion 6

Senator DoH, you will find that I share the same point of view as you and have already proposed this course of action, in the form of motion 1. We need no army raising, Rome's current soldiers are more than enough and ready to take on the horde of Pyrrhos the Epeirote on an open field. Quintus is the most able man, and will personally command the Legions I and II.

[SENATE SPEAKER]: Honorable Senators! A minor point of procedure. The scribes are overworked. As an economy, they have decided that each motion will have only one Seconder. The Seconder is only required to get the motion put on the ballot paper. Wider demonstrations of support can be expressed in open debate here or indeed in the public voting on motions which begins tomorrow.

Senators Tiberius and DoH could you perhaps agree a common wording for motion 1 that would make motion 10 redundant? The reference to Quintus should perhaps be replaced by one to the First Consul, so whoever is elected to that post can lead our main army in the field.

And rather than speak of legions, may I recommend the terminology "Consular army" to refer to a full stack of troops and "Praetorian army" to refer to a half stack? We must not forget that our legions must over time be matched 1:1 with our alae.

Master econ, I must say that I see no difference in Senator DoH's wording and my own. I propose that these motions be merged, and the discussion of the tenth motion end here.

[SENATE SPEAKER]:Thank you, Senator Tiberius. The scribes suggest this formulation:

MOTION 1This house proposes that the First Consul be sent with a full Consular Army to defeat King Pyrrhus and then immediately to take Croton and Tarentum.

On a further procedural point, the scribes have refused to post motions that do not yet have seconders. ... Those fellows are getting a little ahead of themselves... Ah well. And yes, the chief scribe is rather hard of hearing, so to make sure he has heard you, if you do wish to second a motion X, please shout out "I second motion X".

Hmm, yes, I think that would do, master econ. I suppose Pyrrhos can be treated as a king, though he is king only of Epirus, and not leader of the Greek alliance.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Tiberius

Master of Swords, this talk of patience is un-Roman and cowardly! Our Roman units outclass those of the Greek, and what should happen if Pyrrhus besieges Roma? Would you send in eighty men at a time and hope to separate his forces? No, the threat is too great. Besides, young Romans are anxious for war, eager to prove themselves worthy of the title 'Sons of Mars' on the battlefield. Glory to Rome!

---

Oh, Tiberius, if you are really young enough or naive enough to believe patience is cowardly, you are very inexperienced and must make yourself acquainted with the works of the great master Sun Tzu. Maybe you would like to be sent to the field, and lead a "rash, brave and truly roman" charge into king Pyrrhus' pikemen? I am sure there is nothing you can do that will please him more than to see Roma so foolishly deprived from one of her better sons...

King Pyrrhus will not besiege Roma, in the presence of an army close in pursuit at the south (the II Army) and our Consul's army in the north being just a day's march away. I would like to see him try though. It has been a long time, sice the mighty walls of Roma have been blooded by her adversaries. I will take up the sword myself, should Pyrrhus believe himself arrogant enough to attempt such an adventure!

Young Romans, as we all know, are anxious to return to their wives and shops, but it will be better for them to acquire experience against the disorganised barbarians of the north than the disciplined greek phalangites.

[SENATE SPEAKER]: Here is an important announcement - the voting for the post of First Consul has now been opened!

However, I urge you Senators: DO NOT VOTE!

Ah well, what I mean is - do not vote until you have used the full influence of this House first to familiarise yourself with the candidates.

Candidates are expected to post manifestoes here on the floor of the House.

You may also wish to take the opportunity to pose questions to the candidates. Since at least one of the candidates, our Princeps Senator Quintus, is a little hard of hearing, I urge you to shout out your questions by beginning Question #: and to enumerate each questions to facilitate response. To encourage a public debate, please address your such enumerated questions to all candidates.

Bilateral exchanges between Senators and candidates on the floor of this house are encouraged, but should not be confused with general questions to all candidates.

[QUINTUS]: **Cough** Fellow Senators, you all know me - I am Quintus, Leader of this House. I know, some plebs confuse me with our Senate Speaker - it must be the quantity of pasta we both consume - but we are quite unrelated.

I am honoured to be standing for the position of First Consul. Without further ado, here is my manifesto:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Manifesto of Quintus

You need a general to lead our armies against Pyrrhus. Know this - whether I am elected First Consul or not, I stand ready to fight and fight again for Rome.

It is right and proper that the First Consul should command our armies. But a First Consul should be more than a General. He must be a man with a vision of what must be done and the strength of character to see it through.

My vision for the next five years is simple: expand or die! We are a small faction, but with great potential. We will work tirelessly to extend our influence over all the provinces in Italy, bringing the petty kingdoms into our Republic and driving out our enemies, the Greeks. But there I will stop. I will seek to avoid confrontation with Gaul or Carthage. Yes, war with them is inevitable, but there is much building and preparation that needs to be done to make sure that when the battle cries begin, the advantage lies with us.

As to my character, that is for others to testify to. But I will promise this - I will stand for one term only. After five years, I will not seek re-election. After that, I will stand willing to fight for Rome at any opportunity and would welcome retaining an army command. My personal ambition is modest - through command in the field to ascend to the title of legate and ultimately praetor, so as to cultivate an experienced staff that will give us an invaluable edge in battle. But in regard to the position of First Consul, I will step aside after one term in order that younger blades may lead our great Republic.

But I will vow this: I will endow my successors with a larger, richer and mightier Rome - one that will make our neighbours quake with fear!

---

Senator SwordsMaster, procrastination will only lead to Pyrrhus strengthening his grip on Southern Italia. We must strike hard and fast while his army is still not at its full potential strength, and the risk of city fighting is too high, with it being impossible to flank the dreaded Epeirote Phalangites. An open field is our only chance, and the weaker the hated Greek is, the better. Our knowledge of the area and manoeuvrablity of the maniples should be used to our advantage. To waste these advantages is foolish, as well as expensive. The more quickly the liberation of Croton and Tarentum occur, the more quickly our cities will be able to replenish our losses and increase our armies.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Tiberius

Senator SwordsMaster, procrastination will only lead to Pyrrhus strengthening his grip on Southern Italia. We must strike hard and fast while his army is still not at its full potential strength, and the risk of city fighting is too high, with it being impossible to flank the dreaded Epeirote Phalangites. An open field is our only chance, and the weaker the hated Greek is, the better. Our knowledge of the area and manoeuvrablity of the maniples should be used to our advantage. To waste these advantages is foolish, as well as expensive. The more quickly the liberation of Croton and Tarentum occur, the more quickly our cities will be able to replenish our losses and increase our armies.

---

We can shorten the campaign and take 4 cities instead of 2 by striking north first. We will then turn to Pyrrhus with more men, and more wealth, and battle his disordered and depleted hordes out of Italy. His men on the streets? Our skirmishers will fire at them from the safety of the city walls, and it is the decision of our Consul the "how" of surrounding and annihilating them. Maybe, with our newly aquired wealth from the north we will be able to raise another temple to Mars who will aid our men in battle, or maybe, some less-than-loyal greeks can be bribed even before our armies make contact.

The bribery of a general so famous as Pyrrhus seems unlikely, and the bulk of his army will make it difficult for any bribe to take place. Skirmishers? Their ammunition will be depleted in a short amount of time. Pyrrhus' archers, on the other hand, can pick off our men in relative safety, while defended by his phalangites and elephants. By the time we have four cities, we will have few legions, with some spent fighting the rebels, thinning out the numbers. You speak of patience, yet why be patient with a growing threat? Surely be patient in the North? The Gauls are of no concern with their lack of numbers in Italia, and they will surely spend armies taking Ariminium and Arretium, being barbarians who have inferior weapons, morale, training and tactics. Pyrrhus' phalanx, on the other hand, is far more dangerous and effective. If we allow him to take cities, he will defend them very well. If we take the cities, our armies will be weak. Outright battle is the only way forward, if we are to be the masters of Italia.

I do not agree with you, senator, but I have spoken my mind, with the best interest of Rome at heart, I will let Senate's vote decide.

What follows is the manifesto of Tiberius Coruncanius, candidate for Consul.

Senators! Some of you may see this as a grim time. We are at war. Our enemy, Pyrrhus of Epirus, supposedly one of the best generals of our time, has a large army in southern Italy, and probably wishes to take it northward.

But this is also a time of great opportunity. The southern Italian states cannot defend themselves against Pyrrhus. If we defend them, they will be much more willing to be incorporated into the Republic, although some force may have to be applied upon them. The Greek colonies of southern Italy, by supporting Pyrrhus, become our enemies, and we are therefore perfectly justified in conquering them. By the time this is over, Pyrrhus will be dead, and we will control all of southern Italy. We will also show the world what happens when you invade Italy and threaten Rome, regardless of how great of a general you are considered to be, or how many elephants you have. It will be especially important for Carthage to see that, as, unlike the eastern countries, it remains unchecked as the sole power in the western Mediterranean.

To accomplish all of this, all we must do is defeat the army of Epirus and kill Pyrrhus, before they conquer anything. Some of our fellow Senators will have you believe that that is impossible. But to do that is to discount our troops, and to do them a great disservice. Our troups are better equipped, better trained, and more disciplined than those of our enemy. They will be well-supplied and fighting close to home. I also do not believe in the military genius of Pyrrhus. If he was that great of a general, would he have brought himself into his current predicament? Would he have underestimated our strengths so greatly? I believe he is arrogant, and far too overconfident in his own abilities.

Should I be elected Consul, my first action would be to march both Legions south with no delay. They will march past Corfinium, combine, and continue south to seek out Pyrrhus. After Pyrrhus' defeat, southern Italy would be secured, followed by the capture of Messana to gain a foothold on Sicily or the capture of Ariminum and Arretium as they do not form effective buffers against the Gauls. A third Legion would be raised immediately, while an Academy would be built when the funds allow.

Senators! Romans! We have little to fear on the battlefield. If we ever lose a war, it will happen within this very building. Our main enemies are inaction and indecisiveness. Do not lose this war before it has even begun.

My fellow senators,

As has happened before, the very existence of the city of Rome is in danger. As the clouds gather around our city, we can rely on our people to weather the storms and make the sacrifices necessary to make our nation triumph over all its threats.
Our people's strength and courage are not in question, and as long as we remain in the favour of the Gods, all our people need is a strong leader to act as a focus for their zeal. Before you stand four candidates, all men of talent, power and intellect. You are asked to make a hard decision indeed. It will require the utmost of your collective wisdom to make the correct choice.

I say I am the best choice for first consul !

The esteemed Princeps Senatus Quintus is needed in Rome instead of the battlefield. Our people need his comforting presence to give them hope in these dark times and to prepare our glorious city for extended war. This will require sacrifices and strong leadership, such as only the noble Quintus is able to provide. His brilliant son, that superb administrator, is needed in our sister city Capua for the same reasons. That leaves only my brother Tiberius Coruncanius and myself available to lead our forces in the field.
While Tiberius shows a talent for command, I am more experienced in the organizing of a large body of men, as all who know of my understanding of mathematics and skill in handling the bureaucracy, are aware of. Thus I suggest to this noble house that my brother Tiberius, with his obvious skill in training, prepare the raw recruits of the third legion to settle affairs to the north, while I lead the main army to settle once and for all with Pyrrhus in the south !

I do not volunteer myself out of pride, as I say the noble Quintus is a better and more respected man than me by far, and a shining example for all his sons to emulate. In a time of peace he would be the natural and obvious choice for the exalted position of first consul. But unfortunately, we are forced in war and for the good of the Roman people, I see no other choice to volunteer myself for this position.

I vow you this, my fellow senators : I will crush our enemies underfoot and make our city shine as a glorious beacon of light in this dark world !

Esteemed Speaker,

I would ask you to request he senate librarian to post the candidate manifestos in the senate library for easy perusal by our fellow sentors.

I'd like to ask all of the consular candidates the following question(s)

Your words, candidates, about conquest, the glory of battle and even the death of Pyhrrus are hopefull indeed...

but how do you propose to finance your war ?

What are you planning to construct in the currently owned settlements ?

:
How will you deal with other nations, the Macedonians for example, will you seek their aid or their land ?

:
And further more what do you plan to do when Pyhrrus is no longer here, surely that will be long before the end of your reign ?


What are your goals, for your consular period - what are you trying to achieve?


I and I'm sure the other senators would like to know the answers to these predicaments, for the sake of the republic of course.



:balloon2:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dutch_guy

I'd like to ask all of the consular candidates the following question(s)
Your words, candidates, about conquest, the glory of battle and even the death of Pyhrrus are hopefull indeed...
but how do you propose to finance your war ?
What are you planning to construct in the currently owned settlements ?

---

We have a large standing army which we can ill support for an extended period on our current budget, especially if we raise an additional third praetorian legion. Therefore we must, for their own protection and our financial security, conquer and occupy the rebellious latin and etruscan city states. It is their and our only hope of long term survival.
Our main focus should initially be on improving our road system. This is vital both for trade and military reasons. Afterwards the focus should be on trade related structures like traders and ports. In Rome itself I would start work on an academy, which is essential as we are in dire need of learned men of all trades to serve our nation.
Should victory be ours against Pyrrhus I would, after these first critical buildings, desire to raise temples to honour Mars and Jupiter, and additionally I would like to honour Mercury with a temple so he shall bless our trade efforts. With the skilled administrators we have I see no reason not to set the tax rate to high in all our settlements, this will incite our population to better and enrich themselves.
From the first moment we should train troops to complement our existing legions, to serve as garrisons and for the to be created third legion. I will raise roman troops in Rome and italian troops in Ancona and Capua continuously untill the number of troops has reached a satisfactory level.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dutch_guy

How will you deal with other nations, the Macedonians for example, will you seek their aid or their land ?

---

I would immediately send out our esteemed diplomat Sextus Antio to sue for a ceasefire with the Greeks to give us more time to consolidate and to make us better able to crush them later. Whether this ploy succeeds or fails, I will send Sextus Antio out into the east, travelling round the mediterranian, offering an open hand of friendship and trade to all we find living there. I would especially try to form an alliance with the nations that border the Greeks and try to incite them to attack our enemies. As soon as a non-troops-producing city is available I would train a second diplomat and send him out to the west to do the same. A third diplomat would be stationed in Italy itself to carry out the wishes of the senate.
If Pyrrhus agrees to our demand to surrender his colonies in southern italy, I am willing to consider peace if the senate agrees. I find this an unlikely scenario however, but I think honour demands an effort should be made, before we crush him utterly.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dutch_guy

And further more what do you plan to do when Pyhrrus is no longer here, surely that will be long before the end of your reign ?

---

With that much territory conquered, an effort should be made to stabilize and to make our position unassailable. Therefore I will slowly raise our army strength to four praetorian legions, two stationed north and two stationed south, while spending most of our budget in improving our infrastructure and trade and auxilia buildings. Within five years our position should be made so strong our neighbours should fear our military and financial prowess.
The Republic of Carthage especially worries me, it has become strong and powerful and has a strong hold on most of Sicily, from which they might try to invade us in the future. I forsee a clash between our nations in the future and we should be prepared to meet that challenge.
I will not seek war, this is not the Roman way, but any nations that dares to threaten us will feel our rightious retaliation.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dutch_guy

What are your goals, for your consular period - what are you trying to achieve?

---

Firstly security, secondly stability, thirdly a high standard of living for our citizens.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dutch_guy

I and I'm sure the other senators would like to know the answers to these predicaments, for the sake of the republic of course.

---

I hope I have answered the questions of my esteemd collegae to his satisfaction and that of the senate. These are my personal views and as such secondary to the wishes of the senate, which I will carry out to the limit of my ability.

I must say I am not in favor attacking north. This body has swayed my view. Could the consuls who think expanding north is neccessary answer these:

Question1: What steps will you take to defeat Pyrrhus?

Question2: What is your plan if Pyrrhus defeats a Roman army in the field?

Question3: What will be your policy about these factions: Macedon, Carthage, Gaul, Greece

Question4: Why is it neccessary to expand north now?

I will withhold my opinions on the matter of specific motions until the house recieves answers to these questions and any others.

ab cedo ab area
I yield the floor

And what action, may I ask, would you take if we are assaulted simeltaneously by massive armies from both the Gauls and Carthaginians, in Roma and Rhegion respectively? This might be a scenario you will face, should you allow these powers to build up over time.

Also, do you intend to crush Pyrrhus and then leave Tarentum and Croton in the hands of the arrogant Greeks and their unorthodox customs?

Finally, before you fall asleep reading this, does higher living standards for our citizens simply mean higher standards for the Romans who have citizenship, or for all Italian citizens? Or, do you plan on denying Italian comrades citizenship upon liberation, and instead sell them as slaves to Romans to better their lives?

I will take a moment to address the specific issues raised by the Senators.

how do you propose to finance your war?

I believe wars finance themselves. Control of additional regions provides additional income. Currently, our income can support our army. As long as the Republic grows as the army does, we will not have financial problems. Of course, this can be augmented by increasing the output of our current provinces, by upgrading trading facilities, roads, and signing trade agreements. More on that to follow.

What are you planning to construct in the currently owned settlements?

There has been some demand for an Academy in Rome, and that I agree with, as long as the funds don't take away from military needs. Other than that, I will focus on economic construction, improving the trade infrastructure, both sea-borne and by roads, which also serve a dual military purpose. Military construction is generally unnecessary at this time, but the fleet must be improved, which may require some construction.

How will you deal with other nations, the Macedonians for example, will you seek their aid or their land?

It varies with nation. The Macedonians should not be considered enemies at this time, as they are the rivals of the Greeks, although I would not consider them close friends either. The Greeks themselves I would seek a ceasefire with, after Pyrrhus is dead and they have been completely ejected from Italy. I believe that in that case they will not be a threat. The barbarians are to generally be ignored. Carthage is our main rival, and although I do not forsee open warfare with them during the upcoming Consular term, I would take steps to limit their expansion and influence, by, for example, capturing Messana.

And further more what do you plan to do when Pyhrrus is no longer here, surely that will be long before the end of your reign?

After Pyrrhus, I plan to capture all of southern Italy, get a foothold on Sicily, and take Etruria and Umbria in the north. I plan to upgrade the fleet so that it may compete with the navy of Carthage. If we got into a war with Carthage, and could gain naval superiority in the western Mediterranean, we could invade and capture their islands which would be cut off, and then invade Iberia or Africa wherever we feel it would be most advantageous to us. We would be assured victory.

What are your goals, for your consular period - what are you trying to achieve?

Over the next 5 years, we must achieve dominance over the entire Italian peninsula, and prepare for a war with Carthage. Although such a war may not come soon, we must be ready.

***

I would like to point out to Senator Glaucus that I am not one of those who wishes to expand north before Pyrrhus is defeated. Only after southern Italy is secured do I wish to capture Etruria and Umbria, but not necessarily get into a war with the Gauls. I believe the Senator's questions were, therefore, not addressed at me, and will skip them.

And what action, may I ask, would you take if we are assaulted simeltaneously by massive armies from both the Gauls and Carthaginians, in Roma and Rhegion respectively?

If that were to happen, Rome would be the primary defensive objective. All the available legions would be combined, leaving the south momentarily undefended, while they defeated the Gallic incursion. They would then either move, or be shipped by sea, which is faster, south to intercept the Carthaginians. This scenario is precisely why we need a strong navy. If we can stop Carthage from landing and reinforcing large armies in Sicily, from Africa, then we have secured our southern border.

Also, do you intend to crush Pyrrhus and then leave Tarentum and Croton in the hands of the arrogant Greeks and their unorthodox customs?

Not at all, the Greeks must be expelled from Italy. I would do that as soon as the town of Corfinium was on our side.

Finally, before you fall asleep reading this, does higher living standards for our citizens simply mean higher standards for the Romans who have citizenship, or for all Italian citizens? Or, do you plan on denying Italian comrades citizenship upon liberation, and instead sell them as slaves to Romans to better their lives?

I shall not conceal the fact that I will favor Rome above all others. But all Italians loyal to Rome shall receive fair treatment.

[QUINTUS]I thank the noble Senators for their questions. They show a subtle and detailed grasp of the issues. I am grateful for the opportunity to explain my own analysis and intentions.

==========================================================
To answer, the Senator Dutch_guys' questions:

>>but how do you propose to finance your war ?

The theme of my Consulate would be expansion. So long as we remain on the Italian peninsula, seizing cities will increase our revenue without increasing our costs. Two armies can defend the whole of Italy as well as they can defend our three existing provinces. In short, I concurr with my honorable friend, Senator FLYdude, that wars of expansion can pay for themselves.

Beyond that, I would favour the construction of economic buildings - traders, roads, ports - in conquered towns. The natural reluctance of the conquered to fight for the conqueror requires that most of our military recruitment must come from our existing provinces.

Taxes I would set at high, unless that kills population growth. Early on, the good citizens of Roma may have to pay an even steeper price for war.

>>What are you planning to construct in the currently owned settlements ?


Traders in Capua and Ancona, then military buildings. Our three provinces must be all be capable of producing a variety of well armoured soldiers. One city on either side of the peninsula must be devoted to construction of a navy, although I would need to survey the coast to find the most suitable harbours.

In Roma, I would initially prioritise a stables to recruit equites and an academy to teach young additions to our great families. Thereafter, I would work towards a foundry so that our armies are the best equipped in the world.

>>How will you deal with other nations, the Macedonians for example, will you seek their aid or their land ?

I would seek trade with all we meet and avoid war with all but Pyrrhus and rebels.

>>And further more what do you plan to do when Pyhrrus is no longer here, surely that will be long before the end of your reign ?

I would expand our Republic throughout the Italian peninsula and into Sicily, stopping only when our borders touch those of Carthage and Gaul.

>>What are your goals, for your consular period - what are you trying to achieve?

(1) Expansion of territory
(2) Economic growth
(3) Expulsion of Greece from Italy and Sicily
(4) Cultivation of a healthy cadre of fellow generals, with good traits and useful ancillaries

=========================================================

To answer Senator Glaucus's questions:

>>Question1: What steps will you take to defeat Pyrrhus?

Pyrrhus will defeat himself. To march south to face him in open battle is folly. We will surely win, but the casualties will be high. Instead, let him undo himself. He will divide his armies. He will deplete them subduing and then garrisoning rebels that otherwise we would have to defeat. And yes, he will soon march on us within the year. But he will come piecemeal. We, by contrast, will bide our time until the time is right. Then, when he is over-extended, we will strike repeatedly with a full consular army. We will defeat his captains, trap his garrisons and slowly dismember his army. With great numerical superiority in each encounter, our losses will be minimal and victory assured.

>>Question2: What is your plan if Pyrrhus defeats a Roman army in the field?

Your premise is inconceivable.

>>Question3: What will be your policy about these factions: Macedon, Carthage, Gaul, Greece

For the next five years, physical constraints limit our realm of concern to Italy and Sicily. Outside that realm, I would seek trade and peace with all.

Greece has declared war on us and must be expelled from our realm. Her presence here is an affront.After that, we can regard her like Macedon - peace and trade can be sought.

Carthage and Gaul will attack us eventually. We must seek to prepare for the inevitable and deterr it to allow yet more time for preparation. But when they strike, we should mercilessly conquer all provinces sharing a land border with us - driving the Carthaginians across the sea and the Gauls across the Alps.

>>Question4: Why is it neccessary to expand north now?

It is unnecessary. But it is desirable to expand at every opportunity. We must feign weakness to fool Pyrrhus into dividing his forces. That implies a light southern garrison. While Pyrrhus takes over the rebel towns to our south, we will be able to seize at least one rebel town north of us. Our lines of communication are short and we will be able to quickly return south when he enters our lands.

=========================================================
To answer Senator Tiberius's questions:

>>And what action, may I ask, would you take if we are assaulted simeltaneously by massive armies from both the Gauls and Carthaginians, in Roma and Rhegion respectively? This might be a scenario you will face, should you allow these powers to build up over time.

By this time, we should have two full Consular armies - one in the north, one in the south (Sicily). Each alone should be able to defeat any army our enemies throw at us. We only risk defeat is we are engaged by multiple enemy armies. That is only likely if we march blind into enemy lines. I will ensure each army follows paths scouted by a spy to avoid such peril.

>>Also, do you intend to crush Pyrrhus and then leave Tarentum and Croton in the hands of the arrogant Greeks and their unorthodox customs?

Greece's presence in Italy and Sicily is intolerable. I utterly disagree with my honourable friend, Senator DDW. Peace with Greece, however, temporary, will not avail us. We are stronger than Pyrrhus and will only three provinces to call our own, we must expand now if we are to keep pace with our larger rivals.

>>Finally, before you fall asleep reading this, does higher living standards for our citizens simply mean higher standards for the Romans who have citizenship, or for all Italian citizens? Or, do you plan on denying Italian comrades citizenship upon liberation, and instead sell them as slaves to Romans to better their lives?

The towns and cities we will liberate are small and will take time to mature and develop the necessary infrastructure. Depleting their populations by enslavement will slow that progress to a crawl. Roma will grow with or without additional slaves. I will occupy, not enslave, all Italian provinces.

It seems much has occured in my absense. I will atempt to avoid rhetoric as these proceedings are becoming rather lengthy as it is.

Publius Laevinius

Fellow senators we face a trying time ahead of us. Pyrrhus marches north as we speak and we stand with our backs to the wall. Our army marches forth on gold alone and as we stand with our territorial holdings our treasury is not sufficient to support such a war effort as will be needed.

We must seek the alliances of the various other latin states that surround us and face the same threat. This will without doubt require some persuasion as these small states are proud and disdain our rule. To some only steel can persuade . . .

One of our standing legions must march north under competent leadership to bring in the rebellious states of Arminium and Aretium immediatly. This will not only protect Rome herself but also fill her coffers with abundant funds. In the same way Paestrum must also be brought within our ranks by another legion. These states will of course be granted full citizenship and their auxiliary assimilation into the empire will begin immediatly.

The conscription of a third legion must begin immediatly. There are several standing garrisons in our cities that can be called forth and it will only take a season or two to assemble these troops with new recruits to fashion a third legion. This will be compelted easily before Pyrrhus has the time to march north from his currently reported position.

Pyrrhus will without doubt march on Corfinium without delay and this cannot be avoided. But it can be planned for. By the time Pyrrhus captures Corfinium our 1st legion in Peastrum and our 3rd legion outside of Ancona will be in position to flank his army. Once he is within this trap he will be crushed like the bug he is and upon his death will follow the liberation of all of southern italy from the Greeks and the inclusion of all independant cities.

I have great faith in our diplomat that he will serve us well in his travels to Macedon, Illyria, and Carthage to offer trade and perhaps alliance as well depending on circumstances.

With southern Italy liberated and unified and its auxiliary assimilation well under way it will be time to look further. Rome herself needs improvements and with this considerable amount of tax income pouring into our treasury from the newly aquired possessions she will have all that she could want. An academy would only be the start.

The engines of war however do not stop. With such veteran legions on our borders being supported by our treasury it would be foolish to allow them to sit unused to waste. Sicily is only a small hop away and the Gauls as well will be removed from Italy once and for all to never again threaten Rome.

I will stretch our borders from the Alps in the North to Sicily in the South so that no enemy army can ever again set foot on Roman land and Rome will be more powerful than she has ever been before or ever dreamed she could be.

I still do not agree about trading with Gauls. True, it earns denarii for the republic, but are we so corrupt to forget the atrocities the Gauls inflicted upon us for a paltry sum money?

Your strategy is a foolish one, would you have us fight both the Gauls and Carthaginians at once?

Senators, before I delve into deeper matters, I would like announce that, as per the previous request, the currently available Manifestos of the candidates for the Consulship have been posted in the vestibule of the Senate Library. There they shall remain until after the election has been decided. In addition, all motions enacted into law will be posted there as well, until such time as they become obsolete or are otherwise made ineffective.

As for the issues at hand, my questions for the candidates have already been asked or answered. However, some statements have been made by my fellow Senators today that I feel I must respond to.

First, Senator SwordsMaster urges us to delay a confrontation with the hated Pyrrhus. I understand the strategy behind his desire to take the enemy piece by piece and I applaud his desire to keep Roman men from slaughter. However, I cannot understand how this desire has any manifestation except to place faith in the enemy himself! Such a plan requires that we stand by and wait, trusting in the Greek to dismantle his own power and give us the advantage. Fellow Senators, we cannot ensure that such an action will occur. By delaying, we give Pyrrhus the chance to choose the time and place of the coming conflict. Yes, he may disperse his forces, be so too may he concentrate and either fall back behind the walls of Tarentum or advance on the southern Italian states in force! Either way, we will be giving the initiative to the foe and trusting in his own ignorance to see us to victory. I say we cannot take this risk. A direct and immediate confrontation of Pyrrhus may be costly in Roman blood, but it is the only way we can ensure that the battle will be fought on Roman terms. Think also of our prospective allies in the independant Italian states, north and south. What will they think of the power of Rome if we delay, if we stall, in the presence of the enemy? I urge whichever candidate that wins this election to confront the Greeks immediately and to end this threat without hesitation!

Secondly, in one of his questions, Senator Tiberius made a comment suggesting that he was planning on giving Roman citizenship to all Italian states. I find it difficult for me to even repeat such a comment. Does Senator Tiberius really propose to give away the rights of true born Romans to every man we march by? Have they sacrificed as much as we have, to earn such an honor? Did the Italians found this city? Did the Italians throw off the yoke of the Etruscan kings? I tell you now, the ghost of Lucius Junius Brutus will curse all who suggest such a thing! Our Italian allies are worthy men, for certain, and for their service we should rightly reward them. We will provide them with security. We will develop their cities and make them prosperous. Their sons will grow healthy and strong with our gratitude. However, some things are not ours to give away. Roman citizenship should remain only with the sons of Romulus! Anything else betrays all that we have fought for.