Marcus, my son, I write this testiment for you so that you may understand the Republic that once was and how I endeavored to serve it. I have names it Respublica, borrowing the Latin words, res publica - the People's thing, the common thing. This is the Roman designation for our commonwealth which has evolved over centuries into a melding of the Senate's authority and the People's power. However, under Caesar, it has degenerated into an entity of his own personal domain. Though I cannot describe the private counsels of my rivals as I was never privy to them, yet I hope that, if the gods exist or if the Muses of the written word are not indifferent to the scribbling of an old man, then perhaps they or some other power or voice will provide you with insight into those circumstances and events that are beyond the scope of my account. Hopefully, a balanced history will emerge not only for you, my son, but for posterity, assuming of course, that a future regime will allow it to be read. If so, then I hope that my failures and shortcomings as a statesman will be seen in the light of historical events. More importantly, Marcus, I hope that you will forgive my failings as a father. Please know that I have forgiven you the improprieties of youth, realizing full well that, as your father, I unknowningly set before you the opportunity for the most egregious of offenses.