"From Antonius he first received some brief appointments as procurator, than was made perfect, and discharged the duties of this office in a most satisfactory and just manner, in so far as he was free to follow his own judgment."
Speaking of Macrinus, Dio notes how even foreigners, not originally of Roman birth, could achieve great success in the Roman government. The rulers were particularly keen on rewarding loyalty. For his devoted and thorough execution of his duties, Macrinus earned himself an office devoid of oversight. Thus he was spared the messy business of internal affairs.
"Have no fear whatever of the Romans; for they are superior to us neither in numbers nor in bravery. . . Let us, therefore, go against them trusting boldly to good fortune. Let us show them that they are hares and foxes trying to rule over dogs and wolves. - Boudica."
Dio quotes Boudica's rousing speech to her civilian troops. She personally challenges Rome's power, refusing to accept rumors. She believes in the virility of her own people, despite the dreadful obstacle which they face.
"Many plots were formed by various people against Commodus, and he killed a great many, both men and women, some openly and some by means of poison, secretly, making away, in fact, with practically all those who had attained eminence during his father's reign and his own. . ."
Dio devotes great length throughout his many volumes to the betrayal and assassination common among the Roman authorities. In his own time, Dio observes Commodus' known violence. He deposed of his enemies plainly, without ceremony, yet the people continued to revere his authority.
"The best ruler, the one who is of any real value, should not only perform all the duties which fall to his lot, but should provide for the rest of his subjects, so that they can develop their virtues to the full."
In his research, Dio has arrived at the conclusion that a good ruler must consider himself a servant. He devotes himself to the betterment of his subjects, whether their concerns be explicitly his duty or not. He benefits from the success of his inferiors, making him a leader worth emulating.
