[XXXVII]. In the time of the republic, oratorical talents were necessary qualifications, and without them no man was deemed worthy of being advanced to the magistracy.
[XXXVIII]. The Roman orators were not confined in point of time; they might extend their speeches to what length they thought proper, and could even adjourn. Pompey abridged the liberty of speech, and limited the time.
[XXXIX]. The very dress of the advocates under the emperors was prejudicial to eloquence.
[XL]. True eloquence springs from the vices of men, and never was known to exist under a calm and settled government.
[XLI]. Eloquence changes with the times. Every age has its own peculiar advantages, and invidious comparisons are unnecessary.
[XLII]. Conclusion of the dialogue.
The time of this dialogue was the sixth of Vespasian's reign.
Year of Rome—Of Christ Consuls.
828 75 Vespasian, 6th time; Titus his son, 4th time.