Cassius Lepidus took to the Senate floor and began to speak "Senators, Countrymen, Brothers. Today, the fate of Rome lies upon a precarious edge and the armies of Carthage come ever closer in an attempt to push us off into oblivion. The only thing that prevents them from doing so at this moment is Consul Scipio who marches north in an attempt to face this dire threat. Yet, we are here,talking about what should be done. I suggest the utmost haste in dealing with the approaching army. Thus, it makes most sense at this moment to temporarily grant Consul Scipio the title of Dictator, and grant him command of the 3rd and 4th Legions. The election of another consul can be postponed to a later time when Rome's future is secure. 

Secondly, the Republic is in need of more men. That is not a point of debate. Therefore, I agree with some of my fellow Legates that the requirements should be lowered. I believe that any Roman citizen should be allowed to take up arms for the sake of duty and love of his country. If the citizen is not able to purchase their own weapons, then let us open out own coffers in exchange for a set term of service. Now, in terms of our allies. I do not think that we should be hasty and grant everyone citizenship. However, I do believe that those who do exhibit great dedication and service to Rome should be rewarded and granted citizenship. Thus, those who show themselves to be true friends of Rome should be considered to be Romans. Several conditions should be set, however, for those who distinguish themselves. First, they must renounce their old names and adopt new Roman ones. In addition, they must surrender any former civic duties and positions they may hold in their native lands. Finally, they must be or become well-versed in the Latin language. Only when those conditions are met should they be able to receive citizenship. I now open the floor to anyone else who wishes to speak, and will entertain any questions."