My father became angry.

But when he heard me declare that I was a man and the future Emperor, that I would rather see nothing than show myself to the people among the women, he smiled.

He ordered Cilo, who was then the prefect of Rome, to lead me to the seats of the past consuls and the old senators.

I was delighted at this; but when he allowed my younger brother Geta to follow me, my pleasure was entirely spoiled." "And you were then five years old ?" asked Melissa, astonished.
"That surprises you!" smiled Caracalla.

"But I had already traveled through half the empire, and had experienced more than other boys of twice my age.