Cassius focuses specifically on Brutus, one of Caesar's closest friends, in order to gain the support of someone the Roman public overwhelmingly loves and respects. In a private conversation with Brutus, Cassius asks him “why [Caesar] should be played more than / [Brutus]” and assures that “‘Brutus’ will start a spirit as soon as ‘Caesar’.” (1.2.149-156). By stating that Brutus has as much support as Caesar, if not more, Cassius implies that Brutus is more than fit to take the position that Caesar currently holds. This uncovers Cassius' true motives because it shows that he intends to use Brutus solely as a puppet or figurehead who can divert people's attention from Caesar and open up an opportunity for Cassius to gain power. Brutus reluctantly accepts part of Cassius' arguments, but still remains conflicted about the right thing to do. Cassius offers to be a “reflection” and to allow Brutus to “modestly discover… That of [Brutus] which [he] does not yet know” (1.2.74-76). Comparing himself to a mirror, Cassius assures Brutus that he speaks only the honest and impartial truth. This strengthens the legitimacy of everything Cassius intends to include in his argument and also opens the door to new manipulative techniques. He can say anything within reason to convince Brutus to join him, and Brutus will simply believe Cassius due to his unwavering commitment to telling the truth. After Brutus excuses himself from this conversation, Cassius observes that “[his] honorable courage may be wrought / By which he is disposed…. for who is so firm that he cannot be seduced? (1.2.320-324). Cassius openly admits that he intends to bend Brutus to his will, since no one is completely immune to manipulative rhetoric. This illustrates how much Cassius desires power, since he stoops just as low