But whatever others thought, there was no doubt that to the people Cæsar had become an idol. And he was pleased that this should be so, for he liked well to be popular and beloved.
About the year 67 B.C., Cæsar was appointed to superintend the repairs of the Appian Way. On these repairs he spent large sums of his own, and the people whispered to one another that this was done for their welfare, and they smiled more warmly than ever on the young noble.
But he looked after their pleasures as well as after their more practical welfare. For he held a show of gladiators in which six hundred and forty took part, to the delight of the citizens, while the games he celebrated were more magnificent than those usually seen in Rome.
The height of his popularity in these early days was reached, however, when he restored the statues of Marius and of his triumph over Jugurtha and the Cimbri. These had been banished from the Capitol during the time that Sulla ruled the city.
In 63 B.C. Cæsar determined to put his popularity to the test. The high priest had died, and Cæsar wished to succeed him. It was true that Catulus and another Roman of influence were known to expect that the appointment would be given to one of them. But in spite of this Cæsar insisted on letting the people know that he too was a candidate.
Catulus, dreading a contest with one who was so popular, offered Cæsar a large sum of money if he would withdraw.
But Cæsar, although he had spent all his money and was deep in debt, scornfully refused the offer of Catulus. ‘I would borrow a larger sum to carry on the contest,’ he said, with proud defiance.
On the day that the votes were to be taken, his mother accompanied him to the door of their house, her tears betraying her anxiety. But he, as he embraced her, said, ‘To-day you will see me either high priest or an exile.’
The excitement ran high as the different tribes gave their votes, but it was Cæsar, the idol of the people, who won the day.
It was what, in his proud confidence he had expected, but he was pleased, while the people were elated.