The local elections arrive, so Marcus and Stylax sign up as hired clappers for wig-wearing politician Victor of the Gracchii. Grumio, however, is drawn towards another candidate named Julius Priscus. Could it simply be because he is giving away free promotional plums?

Marcus is stressed because the girls will soon be deported unless they raise 3,000 denarii. Stylax suggests they bet their savings on him winning an underground chariot race. Grumio visits Landlord in prison through a sewage pipe.