All this was the more noteworthy, because in addressing and in paying his respects to the senators individually and as a body he _ himself almost exceeded the requirements of courtesy. In a disagreement with Quintus Haterius in the House, he said: “I crave your pardon, if in my capacity as senator I use too free language in opposing you.” Then addressing the whole body: “I say now and have often said before, Fathers of the Senate, that a well-disposed and helpful prince, to whom you have given such great and unrestrained power, ought to be the servant of the senate, often of the citizens as a whole, and sometimes even of individuals. I do not regret my words, but I have looked upon you as kind, just, and indulgent masters,’ and still so regard you.”