The consuls were divided; two influential men were counselling moderation.

Surely the Senate would not push to extremities.

But he had not reckoned on the spell which the malevolent spirit of Lentulus had cast over the assembly.

In bitter words the presiding consul refused to put Calidius's proposal to a vote, and then, turning directly upon his colleague before the face of the whole multitude, he poured out reproof and vituperation.
Marcellus turned red and then black in the face with rage.

Drusus's heart was beating rapidly with hope.