Just because I surround myself with wrestlers and charioteers and gladiators and other good fellows, not with senile self-styled philosophers, prosy and with unkempt beards and rough cloaks, as my father did, half of you think I am incapable of being serious, or haven't intellect enough to understand government or sense enough to care for the Empire.
"You are mightily mistaken.

I realize the importance of my responsibilities and the magnificence of my opportunities.

I hate routine, but I know well the value of our Empire and that I, as Prince of the Republic, [Footnote: See Note A.] have a bigger stake in it than any other citizen of our Republic.

I am not wholly absorbed in the joys of practicing feats of strength and skill.

I put more time on governing than you think.
"I am autocrat of our world, and I know how to make my influence felt when I choose.