CHAPTER X.
_CICERO AFTER HIS CONSULSHIP._ The idea that the great Consul had done illegally in putting citizens to death was not allowed to lie dormant even for a day.

It must be remembered that a decree of the Senate had no power as a law.

The laws could be altered, or even a new law made, only by the people.

Such was the constitution of the Republic.

Further on, when Cicero will appeal as, in fact, on trial for the offence so alleged to have been committed, I shall have to discuss the matter; but the point was raised against him, even in the moment of his triumph, as he was leaving the Consulship.