He hurriedly added, "But it's all recorded in the accounts and can be checked."
Juleios asked calmly, "Are these grains and supplies charged for?"
"Of course, they are..."
Juleios smiled and said, "You see, you've already understood the difficulties of the lowest-level public officials. Before our legislation is even implemented, you've taken the initiative to pay them."
The senators burst into laughter. Melsis was at a loss for words.
Juleios seized the opportunity and continued, "Your accountants are all liberated slaves who followed us from Persia, right? Now, with the impending promulgation of the 'Land Lease Law,' a large number of preparatory citizens will go to Bourkos to apply for leased land. Meanwhile, your accountants can only continue to contribute silently to the city-state. Do you think they would still consider holding public office an honor?"
"In the future, we can… use official citizens," Melsis murmured.
