They were not beggars; well, not in the usual sense. They were Christians, who wanted not just my nephews' money but their souls. - Lindsey Davis

Popular men who laugh at your jokes pose a threat which blatant villains can never command.

I asked why Grumio had had to turn to lesser things.'No call. In my father or grandfather's day all I would have needed in life were my cloak and shoes, my flask and strigil, a cup and knife to take to dinner, and a small wallet for my earnings. Everyone who could find the wherewithal would eagerly ask a wandering jokesmith in.'
'Sounds just like being a vagrant philosopher!'
'A cynic,' he agreed readily. 'Exactly. Most cynics are witty and all clowns are cynical. Meet us on the road, and who could tell the difference?’
'Me, I hope! I'm a good Roman. I'd take a five-mile detour to avoid a philosopher.'

I had been right in the first place. Getting involved with politicians is complete stupidity.