They also agree in reporting that, mild and peaceful as you are by disposition, you know how to defend yourself when attacked, that you are not only a bold and resolute man in a tight place, but resourceful and prompt, a hard and quick hitter, and what is more, a past master at quarter-staff play.

I love brave men and good fighters.

I commend you." He turned ironically to Vedius and asked: "Did you miss any part of what I have just said to Andivius?
I meant you to hear every word of it." Vedius, his mean face lead-gray, bowed and said: "Your Majesty was completely audible." Then Commodus similarly questioned Satronius.

He, his big face brick-red, his eyes popping out, seemed half strangled by his efforts to speak.
"I could hear it all," he managed to say.
"You two stand facing me," Commodus commanded.

"Stand on either side of Andivius." They so placed themselves with a very bad grace.
The Emperor raised his voice.
"Come near, all you senators," he commanded.