1This being so, Manilius, I first praise and most strongly approve that law of yours, and your intention and your view; 1and then I urge you, with the Roman people behind you, to stand by your view and not to fear anyone's violence or threats. 1First, I think you have enough courage and perseverance; 1and then, when we see so great a crowd present with such enthusiasm as we now see again in appointing the same man, what reason is there for us to doubt either the matter itself or the possibility of carrying it through? 1As for me, whatever zeal, counsel, labour and talent I have, whatever I can do through this favour of the Roman people and this praetorian power, whatever through my authority, good faith and constancy, all of it I promise and offer to you and to the Roman people for carrying this measure through, and I call all the gods to witness, especially those who preside over this place and this temple, who see most clearly into the minds of all who enter public life, that I am doing this neither at anyone's request, nor because I think I shall win Pompey's favour through this cause, nor in order to seek for myself, from anyone's greatness, either protection against dangers or help towards offices, since dangers I shall easily repel, as far as a man ought to vouch for it, protected by my innocence, and office I shall win neither from one man nor from this place but by that same most laborious way of life of mine, if your goodwill allows.
71Therefore, whatever I have undertaken in this cause, citizens, I declare that I have undertaken it all for the sake of the state, and so far am I from seeming to have sought any favour for myself that I realise I have even incurred many enmities, some hidden, some open, unnecessary for me but not unprofitable for you. 71But I have decided, citizens, that, endowed as I am with this office and favoured with such great kindnesses from you, I ought to put your wishes, the dignity of the state and the safety of the provinces and allies before all my own interests and considerations.