Although, Roman citizens, my custom at the outset of speaking has never been to offer in return the reason why I am defending someone, especially since I have always considered a just cause enough of a bond for me with all citizens in their legal perils, in this defense of Gaius Rabirius' life and citizenship, his reputation, and all his fortunes the rationale underlying my sense of duty, it seems, must be explained, since the reason that seemed to me most just for defending him ought to seem to you the very one for acquitting him.