Seneca.

To talk of subsidies hurts no man’s conscience. What is the business, Cæsar?

Ner. I am vexed By the complaints against the imperial household In the gathering of tolls.—Here in these papers Are weighty charges ’gainst Pomponius Silvanus, and Sulpicius Camerinus: Read them at leisure. But I ask you first Whether there be not cause for discontent In present management?

Sen. ’Tis a deep evil. But never was the empire better governed; Nor is there more extortion now, I think, Than ever was.

Ner. And were there no extortion?

Sen. Nay, while you farm the taxes there will be Extortion still.

Ner. You all think that, my lords?

Sen. Ay, ay.

Ner. And so say I. You have my grounds. Now hear my scheme, by which for once and all I rid the empire of this blot. ’Tis this. I will have no more tolls or tallages, Customs or duties levied: nay, not one Through all the empire. I will make this present To the human race: I say, their old vexation And burden shall away.