12. The tribunes of the people were at first five in number, though afterwards their body was increased by five more. They were always annually elected by the people, and almost always from their body. They at first had their seats placed before the doors of the senate house, and, when called in, they were to examine every decree, annulling it by the word _Veto_, "I forbid it;" or confirming it by signing the letter _T_, which gave it validity. 13. This new office being thus instituted, all things were adjusted both on the one side and the other, and the people, after having sacrificed to the gods of the mountain, returned back once more in triumph to Rome. _Questions for Examination_. 1. What were the first acts of the dictator? 2. Were his decrees peaceably obeyed? 3. What were his exploits? 4. Were the discontents of the people entirely appeased? 5. How was the news of this defection received? 6. What was its effect on the senate? 7. Was this offer accepted? 8. In what manner was this done, and how were they received? 9. What was the result of this conference? 10. What fable was addressed to the people? 11. What effect did this apology produce? 12. How was this obstacle removed? 13. Who were the tribunes of the people, and what was their authority? 14. Did this new regulation answer the desired end? FOOTNOTES: [1] The power of the dictator was absolute; he could, of his own will, make peace or war, levy forces, lead them forth, disband them, and even dispense with the existing laws, at his pleasure, without consulting the senate. [2] The gates had been shut by order of the senate, to prevent further defection. [3] Titus Livius was born at Pad'ua (the ancient Patavi'nus) in the year of Rome, 695. He wrote the Roman history, from the foundation of the city to the year 744, in 140 books, of which only 35 remain and some of them are still imperfect. Though Livy was treated with great marks of respect by the emperor Augustus, in whose reign he flourished, yet he extolled Pompey so highly, that Augustus used to call him a Pompeian: and though he was by no means backward in bestowing praises on Brutus and Cassius, the enemies of Augustus, yet it did not interrupt their friendship. Livy died at his native city, in the fourth year of the reign of Tiberius, aged 76 years. [4] This is a severe satire upon the judgment of the multitude; indeed, it seems intended to show, that when the passions are appealed to, the judgment is not much consulted; and therefore, that little reliance ought to be placed on acts resulting from popular acclamation. [5] They were called tribunes, because chosen by the tribes. The first tribunes were L. Ju'nius Bru'tus, C. Sicin'ius Mellu'tus, Pub'lius Licin'ius, C. Licin'ius, and Sp. Ici'lius Ruga. * * * * * CHAPTER XI. SECTION I. FROM THE CREATION OF THE TRIBUNES, TO THE APPOINTMENT OF THE DECEMVIRI--U.C. 260. Welcome to Rome, renowned Coriolanus!--_Shakspeare_.