First, Heraklia, thanks so much for keeping me on as a Praetor! Imagine. I've been gone for almost two years and I'm still an office holder. I'm grateful. Humbled. And deeply moved!

Second, how do we account for social mobility in Rome? During the Republic? Especially from the imperial settlement of Augustus on? Certainly not only by death, disease, proscription, etc., creating the need to fill the ranks of the Senate! What about the slaves and freedmen who rose by means of talent? And the businessmen who rose by means of risk-taking and lending?

Regardless of this notion that whatever was old was best, Rome underwent unbelievable change! What powered that?

And it is nice to be back, though I won't be here often. Just too, too, damned busy. I wish I weren't but there you have it.

Anyone read Mary Beard's new book about the Roman Triumph? I recommend it!