The consuls, previous to leading out their legions, exercise authority in <a class="linkToPlace" target="_blank" href="/place?placename=Rome&groupId=935&placeId=1669">Rome</a> over all public affairs,
since all the other magistrates except the tribunes are under them and bound to obey them, and it is they who introduce embassies to the senate.
Besides this it is they who consult the senate on matters of urgency, they who carry out in detail the provisions of its decrees. Again as concerns all affairs of state administered by the people it is their duty to take these under their charge, to summon assemblies, to introduce measures, and to preside over the execution of the popular decrees. As for preparation for war and the general conduct of operations in the field, here their power is almost uncontrolled; for they are empowered to make what demands they choose on the allies, to appoint military tribunes, to levy soldiers and select those who are fittest for service.
They also have the right of inflicting, when on active service, punishment on anyone under their command;
and they are authorized to spend any sum they decide upon from the public funds, being accompanied by a quaestor who faithfully executes their instructions.
So that if one looks at this part of the administration alone, one may reasonably pronounce the constitution to be a pure monarchy or kingship.
I may remark that any changes in these matters or in others of which I am about to speak that may be made in present or future times do not in any way affect the truth of the views I here state.
Walbank Commentary