Murena stood and addressed the court with a very somber tone.

“Honored Senators, Equites, and all those who are in attendance, today is a sad day. For today, we witness the greed and avarice that is ripping our beloved city apart, firsthand. For that is all that Patricius cares about, not the love of his daughter, or the tragic passing at such an early age. Instead, he cares about seizing on this grievous event to enrich himself.

“My good friend Livius, of no relation except through friendship, is an honorable man. He paid his dues, fought in the army, found himself a pleasant woman to marry, and was extra pleased when it was a genuine love match. Despite the misgivings of her miserly father, who nearly reneged on the promised dowry, the two were happy, and content. Sure, they had their fair share of lovers’ quarrels, but who has not? Who among you, who has experienced love firsthand, has not also quarreled with the object of your affections? It is simply human nature.

“Now all of you who have quarreled, I ask you one thing. Did you kill your wife?” Outraged gasps and appreciative chuckles filled the air. “For this is the basis of Patricius’ claim of murder. Because they argued, naturally, Livius killed her. Ridiculous, I know. Perhaps in the twisted corridors of Patricius’ mind, this is how marriage is. You love, you argue, you kill. No small wonder then that he is unmarried at the moment…

“Nevertheless, he seeks to offer proof! Proof, dear fellow Romans, in the form of a greek household slave. Now, we here in Rome know the type. The gossiper, the flatterer, the teller of tall tales. It is as cliché an archetype as is possible to find in the city. Naturally, such creatures are not restricted to city life, and many find their way to the countrysides and small towns throughout the world. And it is this type of creature that seeks to impugn the honor and dignity of his master, who has always been kind with his servants, no matter their status.” Turning to point at Patricius, Murena continued, “And it is this type of creature in our presence today that wishes to aid that dastardly cause! In the process, of course, he wishes to aid his own wallet. For think…if my good friend Livius is convicted of murder, who shall receive his estates? The man that accused him, of course, doubly so! For not only will he have accused and convicted Livius, but he is also Livius’ last relative, through a dead wedding link.

“I think it is apparent that this suit is frivolous and backed only by the naked greed of the prosecution. I implore the jury to acquit Livius immediately, so that he may return to his estate, and resume the mourning of his wife.”