Chapters I through IV Summary

Marcellus is the only son of Cornelius Gallio and her husband, a senator, and brother of Lucia. Lucia recounts the fact that her father spoke harshly against a local official, Gaius. Immediately after, Marcellus laughs openly at a long-winded ode to Gaius. Though Gaius is himself sleeping through the praise, Marcellus tells his sister that he's certain someone will inform him of Marcellus's action. Lucia confides in Marcellus that she was the subject of Gaius' unwanted attention and rebuffed him. Lucia is certain the events will incite Gaius to anger, and Lucia convinces Marcellus that he must apologize immediately. Marcellus is on his way to do so when he encounters his father, who immediately knows something is wrong. Marcellus eventually recounts the story and his father instructs him not to apologize. Soon after, Marcellus receives instructions to...