The text discusses various ancient statues placed near the speaking platform in Rome, including those of the Sibyl, Romulus, and other historical figures. It notes the significant backgrounds of these figures and the honors given by the Republic. Included is a mention of Cn. Octavius and his notable interaction with King Antiochus.
THEORY
There was surprise that the Sibyl had statues near the platform for speeches, even though there are three: one erected by Sextus Pacuvius Taurus, aedile of the people, and two erected by M. Messala. I believe that these and the one of Attus Navius, placed during the time of Tarquin the Elder, were the first, if in the Capitol there were no Kings who preceded them. Chapter V, section xi.
Among these, the statue of Romulus is without a tunic, like that of Camillus, in the place for speeches. The statue of Q. Marcius Tremulus, in front of the temple of Castor and Pollux, was equestrian, also without a tunic, and clothed in the toga: he had defeated the Samnites twice and, by a plea from Anagnia, freed the Romans from tribute. The statues that should be considered among the oldest are those seen in the place for speeches of T. Clelius, L. Roscius, Sp. Nautius, and C. Fulcinius, who were killed by the Fidenae on an embassy. The Republic usually honors those who, against the law of nations, were killed. This honor was given to the two brothers P. Junius and T. Coruncanus, who were killed by order of Teuca, Queen of the Illyrians. It should not be forgotten that, according to our annals, their statues in the public square were three feet high: this was then an honorable measure. I will not forget either Cn. Octavius, (or C. Popilius, according to others), because of his famous words to King Antiochus. This Prince, promising to give him an answer, with a staff he happened to be holding, drew a circle around the King and forced him to give