It dug up heavy iron and gold and soon armed its cruel hands. The land was divided; kingdoms were established; new cities were built; it defended its own walls or, intent upon pillage, sought the property of a stranger. Astraea, now the great glory of the stars, fled from the earth and the cruel customs of men defiled with bloody carnage.[62] Desire for war and thirst for gold increased throughout the entire world. The greatest misfortunes had their origin in luxury, that beguiling evil, which gained strength from time and serious error. Vices acquired during so many long ages abound in us. We are oppressed by an infamous age in which crime rules, raging impiety grows furious, and passionate lust and disgraceful love conquer. With avaricious hands, victorious Luxury grasps the immense resources of the world to destroy them. But, lo, with frenzied step and fierce glance Nero enters.[63] I fear what he brings.
NERO: Fulfil my commands! Send a man who can bring back to me the severed heads of Plautus and Sulla.[64]
PREFECT: I shall not delay your commands. I will seek the camp immediately.
SENECA: It is best to decide nothing rashly against relatives.
NERO: It is easy for him to be just whose heart is free from fear.
SENECA: Clemency is a great cure for fear.
NERO: To destroy an enemy is the greatest virtue of a leader.
SENECA: It is a greater virtue to preserve the citizens for the father of the fatherland.[65]