To clarify, Senators, I do not propose sending two legions. I propose sending two full sized Consular armies; forces as large as logistics allow us to maintain in one body. We already have one fully formed and ready in Italy and a second is being fast created. Yes, Carthage has many men in arms, but we will be able to face their armies on equal terms. Though they outnumber us, proper strategic movements should allow us to engage and destroy each of their formations individually.

It is certainly a risk, but it is one worth taking. If we are to make an expedition to Africa at all, it must take such a prize to ensure our victory in the East. Only minor plunder will simply be a waste of men and resources that could be better diverted elsewhere. We must strike decisively or we must not strike at all.