The Romane historie vvritten by T. Livius of Padua. Also, the Breviaries of L. Florus: with a chronologie to the whole historie: and the Topographie of Rome in old time. Translated out of Latine into English, by Philemon Holland, Doctor in Physicke

THE XXIII. BOOKE OF THE [unspec I] HISTORIES OF T. LIVIVS of Padoa, from the foundation of the Cittie of Rome. (Book 23)

[unspec K]

The Breviarie of L. Florus upon the three and twentith Booke.

THE Campanes revolted unto Anniball. Mago was sent to Carthage, with newes of the vi∣ctorie at Cannae: and in the entrie of the Counsell house, he poured out (on the floore) the gol∣den rings which had been plucked from the fingers of the Romanes there slaine, which by re∣port exceeded the measure of a Modius. Vpon these tidings, Han••••, the noblest personage among all the Carthaginians, persuaded with the Senat of Carthage, to sue unto the people of Rome for peace, but he prevailed not, by reason of the Barchine side and faction, that gai••e∣said [unspec L] him. Cl. Marcellus the Praetour, fought fortunately before Nola, in a sallie which hee made out of the towne against Anniball. The Armie of Anniball fell to riot at Capua, and gave themselves to such sensualitie, while they wintered there, that both in bodily strength, and also in courage of ••••nd they became much enfeebled. Casilinum was besieged by the Carthaginians, and the inhabitants within were dri•••••• by extreame famine, to ••at thongs and leatberings, plucked from off their shields and targuets, yea, and to feede upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and rats. They lived with nuts which the Romanes sent unto them downe the river Vulturnus. The bodie of the Senate was replenished by receiving unto them a new supplie from out of the order of knights or gentlemen, to the number of 197. L.Posthumius the Pretour, was together with his armie defeated by the Gaules, and put to the sword. Cneui and Publius Scipiones, vanquished Asdruball in Spaine, and had the conquest thereof. The remnant of the Armie defeated at Cannae was sent away and confined into Sicilie, and commaunded not to depart from thence, before the warre was fully finished. A league and societie was concluded betweene Philip the king of the Macedoniaus and Anniball▪ Sem∣pronius [unspec M] Gracchus the Consull, discomfited a••d slue the Campanes. Moreover, this booke containeth the fortunate ex∣ploits atchieved by T. Manlius the lord Deputie in Sardima, against the Carthaginians and the Sardi: who tooke the Generall himselfe Asdruball, together with Mago and Hanno, prisoners. Claudius Marcellus the Praetour, van∣quished and defeated in a set battaile before Nola, the Armie of Anniball: and was the first that put the Romanes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some good hope of better successe, after they had beene toiled out with so many foiles and losses.

[unspec A] ANniball after the batt••ile fought at Cannae, & the winning and ransacking of both the Romane campes, dislodged anone, and was removed out of Apulia into Samnium, being sent unto, for to come unto the Hirpines countrey, by Statius, who promised to betray and deliver the cittie of Consa into his hands. Now there was a citizen of Consa, named Tribius, a noble personage, and of great name in his countrie. But the bend and faction of the Cossanes (a familie of great power, by favour of the Ro∣manes) kept him downe and overweighed him: but after the same of the battaile of Cannae and the comming of Anniball, divulged and blowne abroad by the spee∣ches [unspec B] of Trebius, those Cossanes abandoned the cittie: and so was it without any conflict ren∣dered unto the Carthaginians, and received a garrison. Anniball leaving behind him there, all the pillage and baggage that he had, devided his armie into two parts: giving Mago in charge, to possesse himselfe of the townes of that countrey, which would revolt of themselves from the Romanes: or else to force them thereunto, in case they denied and refused so to doe. Himselfe tooke his journey through the land of Campaine, toward the nether sea, intending to assault Naples, that he might bee lord of a port towne also, and have it at his devotion. When hee was entred the confines of the Neapolitanes, hee placed some of the Numidians in ambush, as cun∣ningly as he could, (and there for the most part, the waies are hollow, and full of close and secret noukes and holes) others he commaunded to make a shew of driving a bootie out of the fields, [unspec C] and to ride out braving before the gates of the cittie. Against whom (seeming to bee not many, and those disordered) a troupe of horsemen issued forth, but the enemies of purpose giving back and retiring from them, tilled and trained them on, to the place of ambush: and so they were en∣vironned on every side, and there had not one of them escaped alive, but that the sea was neere, where they espied many fisher boates along the shoare on the bancke side, and as many of them as were skilfull in swimming, gat unto them, and saved themselves: but in that skirmish neverthe∣lesse certaine young gentlemen were slaine. Among whome, Hegeas also, the Captaine of that Cornet of horsemen died in the place, who followed too hotely upon them that reculed and see∣med to flie. But Anniball after he had viewed the wals, and saw they were not easie to be woon, was discouraged and skared from giving assault to that cittie. From thence he turned his journey, and [unspec D] took his way to Capua, a citie flowing in wealth and superfluitie of all pleasures, by reason of long felicitie, and the favourable aspect of gracious fortune. But among all corruptions that there raigned, it was infected most with the licentious loosenesse of the Commons, who exceeded be∣yond all measure, and abused their libertie. Pacuvius Calavius, a man of noble race there, and po∣pular with all, but one that by lewd & indirect courses became rich & mightie, by meanes there∣of, had both Senat and Com. under his girdle, & might do what he would. This man chaunced to be head Magistrat the same year that the Romans were defaited & overthrown at the Lake Thra∣symenus: & supposing that the Communaltie (who had ben a long time maliciously affected to the Senate and Nobilitie) would by occasion of alteration in the State, enterprise some notable act, to wit (in case Anniball should come with his victorious armie into those parts) the murde∣ring [unspec E] of the Senate, and delivering of Capua into the Carthaginians hands. This man I say, lewd and bad enough otherwise, but yet not starke naught and wicked in the highest degree: and de∣sirous to lord it, and dominiere with the safetie of the Commonwealth, rather than with the ut∣ter destruction of the same; as knowing full well, that no state could remaine safe, spoyled and be∣rest once of a publick counsell▪ cast about and plotted, how he might both save the Senate, and also oblige the same to be at his and the Commons devotion.

He assembled therefore the Se∣nate one day together, and after he had protested with a solemne preamble, That in no case he would like and allow of the designement and intent of revolting from the Romanes, unlesse it were upon necessitie and constraint: for as much as himselfe had maried the daughter of Appius Claudius, and had faire issue by her: and besides, affianced a daughter of his own in mariage un∣to [unspec F] Livius in Rome: but yet (quoth he) there is a matter of greater consequence toward, and a daunger like to burst out more to be feared than that. For the Commons intend not by way of revolt and rebellion to rid the citie of the Senators authoritie, but are purposed to massacre all the Senatours, and so to deliver unto Anniball and the Carthaginians, the Commonwealth, clearely void of a Senate. Of which imminent perill (quoth he) I know how to free you, in case

you will wholy trust and rely upon me, and forget all former jarres, and old debates, which have [unspec G] fallen out in governance and managing of the Stat••. Now when all of them in place, for feare were forced to put themselves into his hands: I will quoth he shut you up within this counsell∣chamber, and pretend unto them, as though I were one of their complices, both privie and par∣tie to this intended practise of theirs: and so by soothing them up, under a colourable appro∣bation and allowance of their designements, which I should in vaine crosse and gainesay, I shall find out a ready way to save all your lives. And for assurance hereof, aske and have of me what bond and securitie yee will your selves.

Thus having made his faithfull promise to be fast and true unto them, he went forth, and commaunded the Counsell-house dores to be shut sure, and left warders to keepe the gate and entrie thereof, that no man without his licence and commandement, should either enter in, or come forth. Then after he had called all the people [unspec H] together to an audience, * 1.1 in a solemne and frequent assembly, thus he spake unto them. That which ye have often wished for (ô ye Campanes, my good neighbours and friends) namely, to have the power and meane to revenge yourselves throughly of this wicked and cursed Senate, now lieth in your hands to performe with safetie at your pleasure.

And ye neede not by way of an uprore to assault their houses one after another, to the great danger and hazard of your per∣sons, considering how they are defended with strong gards of their vassals, favorites, and bond∣slaves: ye have them all fast and close mued up within the counsell chamber: themselves alone, without companie, without armour & weapon; there you may take them. But see that ye do no∣thing hastily upon head without pause, nor rashly without advisement. I will so compasse and bring about, that ye shall give your doome of life and death upon every one of them, to the end [unspec I] that each one may have his desert, and suffer due punishment accordingly. But above all things ye must have an eye and looke to this, that ye proceede not too much in heate and choler: but that ye have more regard of your owne safetie and profite, than of yre and revenge. For (I take it) they be these Senatours onely whose persons ye hate and detest; and your meaning is not wholy to put downe & overthrow the Senat quite: for either ye must accept of a King, (ôh government abhominable) or else admit a Senate, the onely counsell in deede of a free citie and State: and therefore with one bush (as they say) ye are to stop two gaps, and to do both at once, namely, to abolish and depose the old Senate, and to elect a new. I will commaund, that the Senatours shall be cited by name one after another: and concerning their life and death, I will demaund your opinion and resolute sentence: and looke what judgement ye give, shall surely stand and be [unspec K] put in execution. But before the condemned guiltie person be done to death, ye shall substitute in his roume a new Senatour, some good man of valour and courage, and worthy to succeede him in his place.

With that, he fate him downe. And after all their names were throwne into a lotterie pitcher and shuffled together, he caused him to be cited and called alowd by name, and the man himselfe to be brought forth of the counsell house whose name chanced to be drawne out first. He was no sooner named, but every man cryed out, that he was a lewd and wicked per∣son, and worthy to be hanged. Then Pacavius sayd, I see (quoth he) what destinie ye rede this man. Rejected he is, and cast out for naught and unjust: choose now a good Senatour, and a righteous in his roume. At the first, all was silent, and as still as midnight, for default of fin∣ding a better to place in his stead. Afterwards, when some odde groome past all shame and [unspec L] reverence, seemed to nominate one: by and by they grew to much lowder words and greater clamours: while some sayd flatly they knew not the man, others laid to his charge sundrie lewd and naughtie vices, and objected against him either abject basenesse, povertie and beggeri••▪ or else some dishonest kinde of trade and occupation, whereby hee lived. Thus fared they, and much woorse a good deale, when a second or third Senatour was named: so as it was well seene, that the men bethought themselves and repented of that they had done alreadie, considering how they failed still and were to seeke, when they should substitute another in his place: for as much as it booted not, but was absurd to nominate the same againe, since that their nomination gained them nothing; but either to heare their vices deciphred, or to beare reproachfull tearmes: and as for all the rest, they were farre more vile and obscure persons, [unspec M] than those that came first into their rememberance, and were soonest thought upon. So the people fell at length, and gently came downe to this point, and confessed, that, Much better was bad they knew, than bad they knew not; and, Seldome came the better: willing the olde Se∣natours to be let out of ward and enlarged. By this pollicie Pa••uvius having bound the Se∣nate

[unspec A] to himselfe, more than to the Commons, and even as much as their life was worth; with∣out force of armes ruled the rost, and all was at his devotion and commaund. Heereupon, the Se∣natours laid aside the remembrance of their owne dignitie, port, and libertie, became affable to the Commons, & would salute them kindly: inviting them courteously, and interteining them liberally at their bourds, with exquisit and delicate fare: undertaking and mainteining all their sutes and causes: readie at all times to assist them and stand by them: and in one word, empanal∣ling Iuries (to go upon all causes & matters in law) of those whom they knew to be gracious and popular, and fitter to winne and procure the favour and affection of the common sort. Thus at the Counsel-table all matters were decided, as if the Commons had there sat, and not other∣wise.

[unspec B] This Capua was a citie ever given to dissolute life & excesse in pleasure, as wel by reason of the naturall corruption and inset disposition of the Inhabitants, as also for the plenteous & flowing aboundance of all delights, and the alluring intisements of all dainties, that either sea or lande might affoord. But at that time (such was the obsequious fawning, and flatterie of the Nobles, such was the licentious living of the Commons) they were so lavish, that they exceeded in lust and superfluitie beyond measure, and laid it on in expense without stay. Besides their contempt of Lawes, Magistrates, and Senate, they grew to this passe after the overthrow at Cannae, that whereas before, they had some awfull and reverent regard of the Romanes, now they despised and set naught by the government and Empire of Rome. And nothing else stood in the way, but that presently they would have rejected their rule, and shaken off the yoake of obedience [unspec C] and alleageance, saving onely this, That by reason of ancient entercourse of crosse and mutuall marriages, many noble houses and mightie families were linked and allied to the Romanes: and againe, which was the greatest bond of all, whereas there had served in the Romane warres, cer∣taine of them: there were threee hundreth men of armes, and those of noblest birth of all the Campanes, chosen out of them and sent by the Romanes to bee resiant in sundrie garrisons of the citties of Sicilie: whose fathers and kinsfolke (with much a do) obtained, that Embassadours should be sent unto the Consull of Rome. They found the Consull at Venusia with a few soul∣diours, and those armed by the halfes (for as yet hee was not gone to Cannusium) being in that poore taking and hard plight, as he could not be in worse; either to move pittie in the hearts of true and well affected allies, or to breed contempt in proud and hollow-hearted friends, such [unspec D] as these Campanes were. Contemptible was their case, but the Cos. made himselfe & his condi∣tion more despised, by bewraying too much his present distresses, and laying open to the world the nakednesse of his calamitie. For when the Embassadours delivered unto him, That the Senat and people of Capua tooke it to the heart, and greatlie grieved at the adverse overthrow of the Romanes; * 1.2 and promised therewith, to furnish him with all things fit and meet for war: Ye have (quoth he) ô Campanes, observed an order & custome, and for form and fashion visited us your confederates, in willing us to require at your hands all supplements of warre; rather than said any thing directly besitting the present estate of our fortune.

For what have wee left us at all, after this discomfiture of Cannae, that wee should bee willing to have that supplied by our allies, which is wanting? as who would say, wee had somewhat alreadie. Should we demaund of [unspec E] you footemen, as though wee were furnished with horse? Should wee say that we lacked mony, as if mony only were wanting, and nothing else? No, no, Fortune hath dealt so hardly with us, that shee hath left us just nothing, nor so much as that, which might bee made up and sup∣plied by others. Our Legions of footmen, our Cornets of horse, our armour and munition, our Standards and Ensignes, horse and man, monie and victuals: all is gone; lost and perished; ei∣ther in the battaile, or the morrow after in the ruine of our campe, when we were turned out of our tents and pavilions. And therefore yee are not, ô Campanes, to aid and helpe us in this warre; but in our behalfe, and for us, yee ought to take the whole charge of the warre upon your owne selves, against the Carthaginians Call to rememberance how••n in times past, when your auncesters and forefathers were fearefully driven to keepe within your walles, standing in [unspec F] dread and bodily feare, not of the Samnites onely your enemies, but also of the Sidicines: wee took them into our protection, and defended them before Satricula: and how for your sakes we began warre with the Samnites, and mainteined the same for the space almost of an hundred year, and in great varietie of fortune, giving and taking sundrie foiles all the while. Over and be∣sides, call to minde, how wee concluded an indifferent and equall league with you, to the dis∣advantage

of neither parts: how wee graunted unto you the libertie of living under our owne [unspec G] lawes: and how at the last (a matter ywis of right great importance and consequence, before this our late overthrowe at Cannae) wee graunted unto a great part of you, the freedome & pri∣viledge of Bourgeoisie, and parted with you the franchises of our owne cittie. And therefore yee ought of right (my masters of Capua) to repute this losse and misfortune now received, to bee as well yours as ours: and to make reckoning to defend the common state & countrie of both. It is neither Samnite nor Tuskane that wee have to deale with, to whom, if we lost & parted with our Empire, yet it remained still within the compasse of Italie: but the enemie that pursueth us, is a Carthaginian, drawing after him a traine of souldiers, who are not so much as borne in A••∣fricke, but comming from the farthest and most remote parts and bounds of the world, from as far as the * 1.3 streights of the Ocean sea, even from Hercules his pillers: void of the knowledge of [unspec H] all law, right, and difference of condition, without reason and discretion, and (in manner) with∣out comerce of mans language. These souldiers so fierce and fell by nature, so cruell & mer∣cilesse by use and custome, their captaine hath withall made more wilde and savage, by making bridges, causies, and high-waies, over heapes of dead mens bodies: and (which I abhorre to speake) by teaching them to eate mens flesh. To see and endure these men to be their LL. whom feeding as they do upon such execrable meates and viands, which even to touch and handle without great horrour wee may not: to resort for justice as farre as into Affricke and Carthage, and to suffer Italie to be reduced into a Province under the Numidians and Moores, what is hee that would not detest and abhorre, were he but borne onely within Italie? A woorthie honour and immortall glorie it will be for you, ô ye Campanes, if the Romane Empire and dominion, [unspec I] thus growing to ruine and falling downe prostrate under the weight of this late overthrowe, might by your fidelitie and forcible power be staied and vpheld, and set upright againe. I sup∣pose yee have levied and enrolled alreadie, thirtie thousand foote, and foure thousand horse, out of Campaine: for coine, for corne, ye have store and plentie: Now if your faith and truth be aunswerable to your wealth and fortune, neither shall Anniball find that hee hath woon the victorie, nor the Romanes feele that they have lost a journey.

With this Oration thus ended, the Consull gave the Embassadours their discharge, and dismissed them.

As they returned homeward, one of them, Sabius Virius by name, said thus unto his fellowes. Now is the day come (qd. he) wherin the Campanes may be able; not onely to recover againe the lands which in times past the Romanes have wrongfully taken from them, but also obtaine & enjoy the sove∣raigne [unspec K] rule & Empire of all Italie. As for Annib. we may conclude, covenant, & capitulat with him what articles & conditions we list our selves, to our best behoofe & benefit: And it is all to nothing, that Annib. having now dispatched & finished the war, will of his own accord depart like a Conqueror into Affricke, & withdraw his forces out of these parts: so as the dominion of Italie shall bee left wholly to the people of Capua.

Virius had no sooner delivered these spee∣ches, but they all applauded him and accorded thereto. And in such tearmes they related their Embassage, as all men thought no lesse but the Romane Empire and name was utterly perished and extinct for ever. Incontinently the Commons and the greatest part of the Nobilitie of Capua enclined to revolt and rebell: Yet by the countenance and authoritie of the Auncients and Elders, the matter was staied & deferred for some few daies. At length, the greater part pre∣vailed, [unspec L] whose opinion was, That the same Embassadors which were sent to the Roman Consull, should be addressed in embassie unto Anniball. But I find in some Annall records, that before they went, & before their resolute determination to revolt, there was an Embassage sent from the Capuans to the citie of Rome, demanding thus much, That if they meant to have any helpe and aid from them, one of their Consuls might be a Capuan. Wherat the Senat of Rome tooke such snuffe & indignation, that the said Embassadors were commanded to void the Counsel∣house, & a Sergeant sent after them at their heeles, to set them out of the citie: charging them at their peril, to take up their lodging that night without the territories of Rome. But because this demaund jumpeth too neere to the like that the Latines made long before: & both Caelius & o∣ther Historians have (not without good reason) passed it over, & said nothing therof, I dare not [unspec M] avow it for a truth. Wel, Embassadors there came unto Anniball, & concluded peace with him under these conditions, and covenants: Imprimis, That no generall, captaine, or magistrate of the Carthaginians, should have any jurisdiction or power over a citizen of Capua: Item, That no citizen of Capua should be compelled against his will to serve in any warres, or execute

[unspec A] the charge and office of a souldiour. Item, That the Campanes still enjoy their old lawes and magistrates of their owne: Item, That Anniball deliver unto the Campanes three hundred Romane captives, such as they themselves shall choose; whome they might course and ex∣change for those three hundred horsemen of the Campanes that were in garrison, and served for pay in Sicilie. These were the articles of the accord. But the Campanes stucke not to doe more than so, and to go farther than their capitulations: committing divers and sundry outra∣ges. For the commons suddainely at once, apprehended all the Romane captaines over the con∣federat souldiers, yea and attached other cittizens of Rome, that were either employed in any militarie charge, or otherwise occupied in their privat affaires: and caused them to bee clap••••p within the stouves and hote houses, as in ward and safe custodie, where their breath being stuffed [unspec B] and stopped up with exceeding heat, and steeming vapours, they were stifled, and dyed mise∣rably. But there was one Decius Magius, a man who wanted no meanes of soveraigne authoritie, but onely the sobtietie, discretion, and wisedome of the citizens with whom he lived; who with∣stood all that ever he could, such enormious & audacious courses, and endevoured to hinder the embassage sent to Anniball. And so soone as he heard that Anniball was sending a garison, he recounted unto his fellow citizens, the proud and lordly rule of Pyrrbus, the miserable and wret∣ched thraldome of the Tarentines, as precedents, sufficient to give them warning. He ceased not to crie aloud in open place and audience, first, that they should not receive the garison into the citie: then, that being admitted, they should either be thrust out againe; or rather, if they would expiate and make amends by some valiant and memorable act, for that shamefull lewd part of [unspec C] theirs, in revolting so from their most auncient Allies, yea and kinsmen by bloud, they should fall upon the Carthaginian garison, and kill them every one, and so reconcile themselves againe to the Romanes. Anniball having intelligence of these plots (for they were not a forging and con∣triving in a corner) first sent certaine messengers to summon Magius to repaire unto his pre∣sence within his campe. After that, seeing he stoutly denied to go (for he pleaded that Anniball had no authoritie nor right to commaund a citizen of Capua) he waxed wroth, and comman∣ded the man to be apprehended, and to be haled perforce bound, unto him. But fearing, upon better advise, least by offering such violence some tumult might arise, and in the heat of bloud, breake foorth into an inconsiderat fray, he dispatched beforehand a messenger of purpose unto Marius Blosius, the Pretour or L. Governour of Capua: signifying, that the morrow next [unspec D] following, he would be personally in Capua: and so with a small gard about him, he set forth of his camp, and put himselfe on his journey. Marius assembled the people together, making proclamation, and warning them to be readie in all frequent solemnitie, with their wives and children, to meet Anniball upon the way. They of the adverse side unto Magius and the Ro∣mans, performed this not only obediently, but also most effectually and with great diligence and endevor. Yea, the common sort likewise were very forward in this action, as desirous especially to see this great Generall and brave warriour, so noble and renowmed for his many victories. Decius Mag••us neither went forth to meet him, nor yet kept his house, because hee would not seeme to feare and cary a guiltie conscience: but walked up and downe idely for his pleasure in the Market place with one of his sonnes, and a few of his vassals and followers, whiles the whole [unspec E] citie besides was busily occupied, and much troubled in the enterteining and beholding of this great Captaine and commander of the Carthaginians. Anniball being entred the citie, incon∣tinently required to have audience in their Counsell house. Whereupon, the Nobles & princi∣pall citizens of Capua requested him that he would not that day intend any weightie matters of importance, but himselfe in person solemnize it, with joy and mirth, as an high and festivall holi∣day for his welcome thither. And albeit he was by nature hastie, and readie to fall into fits of anger, yet because he would not seeme at his first comming to denie them any thing, he em∣ployed a good part of that day in seeing and vewing the citie. Interteined and lodged he was and his whole traine, with the Manij, Celeres, Stenius, and Pacuvius, the most noble and hono∣rable personages, and the welthiest of all others. Thither unto him, Pacuvius Calavius (concer∣ning [unspec F] whome I spake before, the principall man of that bend and faction, which reduced the citie to the obedience and devotion of Anniball) brought his owne sonne a yong Gentleman, and said withall, that the youth kept continually with Decius, and that he was faine to pluck him a∣way from his companie and traine, whose part he tooke, and stuck most stiffly to him, in main∣teining the old societie and amitie of the Romanes, against the new league with the Carthagi∣nians;

and neither the bending and inclination of the whole citie to the contrarie side, nor yet [unspec G] the reverent majestie of a father, had yet driven him from his obstinate resolution. And for that time, the father laboured with Anniball rather by way of prayer and intreatie, than by excusing and cleering his sonne, that he would not be discontented nor displeased with the yong man. So he was overcome with the importunate request and plentifull teares of the father, and gave commandement, that he together with his father should be bidden to supper, at which ••east, he purposed to have the companie of no other guests of all Capua, but only of his hostes that gave him enterteinement, and one Iubellius Taurea, a famous and brave warriour. To supper they went long before day light went downe, and fared at the table, not after the guise of Carthaginians, nor according to the discipline of souldiours, but after the order of a citie and house, which had bene used a long time to have the bourd furnished with sundrie sorts of deintie [unspec H] dishes, and with all delicate junckets to please the palate and tast. Perolla onely the sonne of Calavius, could not be brought to change his mind, and shew himselfe cheerefull and merrie at meate, notwithstanding the masters of the feast, and Anniball himselfe otherwhiles, invited him to beare them companie, and sit with them; but he ever made his excuse to his father, that he was ill at ease and sickly whensoever he seemed to examine him, and to know the cause of such wonderfull trouble of mind, and vexation of spirit.

So, a little afore sunne setting, when his father arose, and was gone out from supper, he followed hard after him: and when they were come into a secret place apart, (a garden it was on the back side of the house) I will tell you a thing father, I have in my head a pollicie, and a readie meane, how we shall not only obteine pardon at the Romanes hands, for our trespasse committed, in falling away from them, and turning unto An∣niball: [unspec I] but also how we Campanes may be in farre greater estimation and favour among them than ever we were. The father marveiling hereat, was desirous to know what devise that might be: and with that, the youth cast his gowne from off his shoulder, and shewed him a good blade girded to his side. I will quoth he out of hand, establish and seale sure, the Romane league with the bloud of Anniball. I was desirous (father) to let you know of it aforehand, if peradventure you would be willing to be out of the way when the deede is a doing. The old man seeing and hearing this, in a great fearefull agonie, as if he had bene present to see the execution of that which he heard him to speake of, Now I beseech thee, my sonne (quoth he) and pray thee of all loves and bonds that bind children and parents together, that thou wilt not before thy fathers face either commit or suffer this so horrible a part, full of all abhominable wickednes whatsoe∣ver, [unspec K] and not to be named. There are not many houres since, that we sware by all the gods and holy hallowes in heaven, and by joyning hand in hand, made faithfull promise, and obliged our¦selves, to communicate together with him, and to eat at the holy table of sacred viands. And are we no sooner departed asunder from our familiar conference and parlee, but we arme our¦selves against him? Arisest thou in deede from thy friends guest-bourd, to which thou wert thy selfe the third man bidden of all the Campanes, and even by Anniball, and wilt thou staine and pollute that bourd with the bloud of the principall guest▪ I, thy father, erewhile was able to recon∣cile A••niball to my sonne; and can I not pacifie my sonne likewise, & appease his fearce stomack against Anniball? But if there be nothing sacred and inviolable, nothing to be trusted in the world, neither faithfull promise, nor religious oth, nor any pietie at all and good nature, things [unspec L] so honest and just: then adventure hardly, and spare not to put in execution all actions dete∣stable and not to be spoken, so that besides the note and infamous marke of wickednesse, they bring not upon our owne heads present mischiefe, and utter confusion. Darest thou alone as∣saile the person of Annibal? What will that multitude about him do the while, so many freemen and bondmen both? All their gard and regard, all their eyes upon him alone, what serve they for? What will become of so many hands of theirs? Thinkest thou that they will be benummed and dead, at the time of that frantick enterprise of thine? The grim visage of Anniball himselfe, whome whole armyes of souldiours tremble to behold: whome the people of Rome dread, and for feare of whome they quake againe, wilt thou alone abide to see? And if all other meanes of help should faile him, wilt thou endure to strike and wound me thy father, putting my bodie be∣tweene, [unspec M] for the savegard and defence of Anniball? And stabb me thou must through the very hart, before thou canst hurt him or run him through. Suffer therefore thy selfe here to be frigh∣ted from this thy intended mischiefe, before thou have the foyle there, and misse of thy purpose. Let my prayers take place with thee, as once this day they prevailed for thee.

With that, he

[unspec A] marked his sonne to weepe and shed teares, and embracing him about the middle, and kissing him ever and anon, he left him not, nor gave over to pray and intreate him instantly, untill he got at his hands to lay off his sword, and promise him faithfully, that he would not attempt any such enterprise.

Then the youth, seeing how the case stood, I wil (quoth he) pay unto my naturall father that kindnesse and love, in which I am bound as a debtour to my native countrie. But alas for you, good father, I am right sory for your hard hap; who are to answere before God and the world, for the betraying of your countrie, no fewer times than thrice alreadie. Once, when you gave counsell and persuaded to forsake the Romanes, and to revolt from them: againe, when you were the principall agent, and advised to make peace with Anniball: and now this day the third time, when you are the only obstacle and hinderance, that Capua is not restored againe [unspec B] into the hands of the Romanes. O sweet countrie and native soyle of mine, take here at my hand this sword, wherewith erewhile I was girt and armed for deere love of thee, and was fully minded to defend this thy chiefe castle and fortresse, and not to spare, but embrue it in the bloud of thy mortall enemie: take it I say, since mine owne father is readie to wrest it from me. This sayd, he flung his sword over the garden wall into the high way and open street: and therewith, because he would not grow into any suspition, he shewed himselfe againe to the guests within the house, and tooke part of the banquet.

The morrow after, the Senate in favour of Anniball, so∣lemnely met together in great number: in which frequent assembly, the beginning of his speech was very pleasant and gracious: wherein he gave the Capuans thanks, for preferring his amitie before the alliance of the people of Rome: and among other faire and magnificall behests to [unspec C] them made, he promised that within a while, Capua should be the head citie and chiefe State of all Italie, whereunto the people of Rome, together with other nations, should resort for law and justice.

Mary quoth he, there is one that hath no part or fellowship in the societie and league made betweene the Carthaginians and you, namely, Magius Decius, who neither was a Cam∣pane, nor ought of right so to be called and reputed: him I demaund to be delivered into my hands, and that in my presence, the Senate should be asked their opinion concerning his trespasse, and an Act presently entred thereof. All of them there assembled allowed of the mo∣tion, and gave their assent in the end: albeit a great sort of them thought both the man unwor∣thie of that hard fortune & calamitie, and that this was but an ill beginning and a very ouverture to the infringing of the right of their freedome.

The chiefe Magistrate then, went forth of the [unspec D] Counsel chamber, & sate in the Iudiciall hall or temple, and commanded Decius to be attached, and to stand before him at his feete, and there to answere for himselfe and make his defence. Who persisted still in the same stournesse and boldnesse of spirit, alleadging that by vertue of the covenants in the league comprised, he might not lawfully be pressed and forced thus farre. Wherupon he had yrons clapt upon him, and commaundement was given, that he should have a Lictor attend upon him, and so be conveighed into the campe of Anniball. All the way as hee was led, so long as he was bareheaded and open faced, hee went preaching to the multitude that flocked about him, and with a lowd voice spake and said.

Now Capuans, yee have the libertie that ye sought and longed for. In the open market place, at noone day, and in your sight, lo how I, a man inferiour to none in all Capua, am led away bound in chaines to die. What greater vio∣lence [unspec E] could be offered, if Capua were woon by assault of the enemie? Go forth, go & meet Anni∣ball, adorne & hang the citie with rich cloth of tapistrie. Register in your Kalender, among other holydaies, this day of his Entrie, that in the end ye may behold this goodly triumph over one of your owne cittizens. Vpon the utterance of these words, the multitude seemed discontented at the indignitie of this sight.

Whereupon hee was hood-winked, and his head covered, and the Sergeant was charged to have him away quickely, and make hast out of the gates. So hee was brought into the campe, and immediately shipped and sent to Carthage, for feare least some commotion might arise in Capua, upon so unworthie and shamefull a deed▪ and least the Senate also should repent themselves, that they had delivered and yeelded out of their hands a principall personage among them: also to prevent, that no Embassage might be sent unto him [unspec F] for his redelivery, wherby he should either offend his new allies, in case he denied them their first request, or suffer Capua to have alwaies a busie and seditious citizen, readie ever to stirre up new troubles, if he graunted their suite. The ship wherein he was embarked, was by tempest cast upon Cyrenae, a port towne in the dominion at that time of the KK. There, Magius fled for refuge as to a Sanctuarie, unto the Image of king Ptolomaus, and was brought by his guard and keepers

unto Alexandria to the kings presence, and enformed the king, how contrarie to the tenor and [unspec G] priviledge of the covenant, he was in bonds by Anniball. Whereupon hee was loosed from his chaines, and put to the choise, whether to Capua, or goe to Rome. Magius an∣swered, that he could not in Capua remaine in safetie, and if he went to Rome at that time espe∣cially, when there was warre betweene the Romanes and Capuans, he should bee sooner lodged there in prison like a fugitive runagate, than intertained in house for a friend and loving guest: and concluded in the end, that he would make abode and live the rest of his daies more willingly in no place of the world, than in his highnesse realme, whom he found alreadie to be the saviour of his life, and the redeemer of his libertie and enlargement.

Whiles these occurrents fell out abroad, Q. Fabius Pictor, sent (as is abovesaid) Embassador to Delphos, returned to Rome, & out of a writing he red openly, the answer of the Oracle in these [unspec H] words (now yee must understand, that in this Script were certaine gods and saints named, unto whom they should make solemne supplication, and the manner also with all ceremonies and complements thereto belonging:)* 1.4 Then (ô Romanes) if yee shall so doe, your state shall prosper and be more happie: your Commonweale shall goe forward better to your mind, yea, and victo∣rie in the wars shall happen unto the people of Rome. But remember, that when all things shall goe well on your side, and your State shall be saved and preserved, yee send unto Pythius Apollo a present, according to the merite of a due recompence; and of the sylver raised of the pillage, prises, and spoiles taken from the enemies, doe him honour accordingly.

After he had rehearsed these words truly, translated out of the Greeke Originall, then he said moreover, That so soone as he was departed from the Oracle, he presently sacrificed unto all those gods with franke-incense [unspec I] and wine. Also, that he was commaunded by the Priest of Apollo, that like as he both came to the Oracle, and also celebrated sacrifices, crowned with a garland and chappelet of Lawrell, so hee should in the same manner adorned, take ship and be imbarked, and not lay off the said garland before hee was arrived to Rome. Finally, that after all ceremonies performed most precisely and diligently, which hee was commaunded to observe, hee had laid and bestowed the said chappelet upon the altar, before the Shrine of Apollo at Rome. Then the Senate made a de∣cree, That those sacrifices and supplications should with all speed and carefull regard bee ce∣lebrated.

Whiles these things passed at Rome and in Italie, Mago the sonne of Amilcar, arrived at Carthage, and brought the first tidings of the victorie at Cannae. This Mago was not immediate∣ly [unspec K] and directly sent from his brother, out of the field where the battaile was fought, but staied certaine daies about receiving the homage and subjection of certaine cities of the Brutij, which revolted from the Romanes. Who having audience given him in the Senate of Carthage, rela∣ted what acts and exploits his brother Annibal had atchieved in Italie: namely; That he had gi∣ven battaile to sixe Generals, whereof foure were Consuls, and two were the Dictator & Com∣mander of horsemen: That he had fought against sixe entire Consular armies, in which battailes he had slaine above 200000 enemies, taken prisoners more than 50000. That of those 4 Coss. he had killed twaine outright: as for the other two, one of them was deadly hurt, the other having lost his whole armie, was fled, accompanied scarcely with 50 men: That the Generall of the Ca∣vallerie created with ful Consular authoritie, was discomfited & put to flight: & the Dictator (for [unspec L] sooth) because he never would hazard the fortune of a field, was counted the onely warriour and worthie Captaine: That the Brutij and Apulians, part of the Samnits, and Lucanes, were revol∣ted to the Carthaginians: That Capua, the head cittie not of Campane onely, but (after the Ro∣manes defeiture and overthrow in the battell at Cannae) of all Italie also, was surrendred to Anni∣ball. For these so many and so worthie victories, he required (meet and requisit as it was) that there should be a solemne feastivall day holden, and sacrifices solemnised to the honor of the immor∣tall gods. And for better assurance of these luckie and fortunate atchievances, and to verifie his words, he caused the gold rings of the Romans, slaine at Cannae, to be poured forth in the porch and entrie of the councell house. The heape of them was so great, that as some authors affirme, when they measured the same, they filled three Mody and an halfe. But the constant report went, [unspec M] and sounding neerer to a truth, that they were not above one Modius. Hee added moreover and said (and all to prove their overthrow the greater) that none but knights & men of arms, & those of the better sort, who served on horses found at the citties charges, used to weare that oma∣ment.

The drift and conclusion of his speech was this, that the sooner that Anniball hoped to

[unspec A] make an end of the warres, the more he ought to be aided and helped with all provision and fur∣niture accordingly. And why? The service was farre from home, in the mids of the enemies land, a huge deale of corne was consumed, a great masse of monie was spent: and as so many battailes had utterly swoopt up the enemies armies, so reckning was to be made, that they had in some measure lessened and empaired the forces of the conquerour. Therefore, a new supplie of men was to be sent over, and monie for souldiers pay, yea and come also was to be transported to so brave souldiers, that had done so singular good service, and deserved so well of the Carthaginian nation. Vpon these reports of Mago, when all men els were wonderous glad, and tooke great contentment, Himilco, a man of the Barchine bend, supposing he had now good occasion and opportunitie offred to carpe and check Hanno. How now Hanno quoth he, what say you to this [unspec B] geare? repent you still and mislike the warre undertaken against the Romanes? Let us see now, give your voyce and opinion that Anniball be yeelded: forbid now thanksgeving to be perfor∣med to the immortall gods, for this prosperous speed and fortunate successe. Let us heare a Ro∣mane Senator now to speake in the counsell house of the Carthaginians. Then Hanno; I would have held my peace this day, my LL. quoth he, for feare to speake ought that in this common and generall joy might not be altogether pleasant unto you. But now, seeing a Senatour bluntly spurreth me the question, whether I mislike still of the enterprise of war against the Romanes? if I should keepe silence and say nothing, I might seeme either prowd and insolent, or else faultie and culpable. Whereof the one is the part of a man that hath forgotten the libertie of other men; the other a propertie of him, that thinketh not of his owne. Well may I therefore answer [unspec C] to Himilco, that I cease not yet to mislike this warre, nor never will give over to blame and chal∣lenge this invincible Captaine and warrior of ours, before I see the war ended and determined, upon some indifferent hand, & tollerable condition: and nothing els shall stint the misse I have, and quench the longing desire of the old peace, but the making of a new. And therefore these particulars, which Mago erewhile so magnified and vaunted of, are for the present, joyful newes to Himilco and other of that crue, and the supposts of Anniball; and to mee likewise in some mea∣sure, they may be acceptable tidings, in this regard, that good successe and luckie speed in warre, if we will make the right use and benefite of our fortune, will be a mean to procure us a more ea∣sie and honourable peace. For if we let slip this advantage and opportunitie of the time, when as we may seeme, rather to give than take conditions of peace, I feare mee, that even this present [unspec D] so goodly a shew of ranckenesse as it maketh now, will run up all to straw, and beare no head to yeeld corne in the end. And yet, let us consider now, what a speciall matter this is. Slaine I have whole armies of enemies; Therefore send me fresh and new souldiours. What could you (Sir) de∣maund more, if you had been overthrowne? Woon I have by force two strong holds where the enemies were encamped, full and fraight (we must needs think) of prizes and victuals; Allow me more corne and monie. What would you have required and craved more, I say, in case you had been rifled, and turned perforce out of your owne campe & pavilions? But that I may not mar∣vel alone at these strange Enthymemes and conclusions (for it is as free and lawfull for me to ask some questions, seeing I have alreadie answered to Himilco) I would faine have Himilco or Mago, I care not whether, to make answere likewise to mee. Say, that in the battaile before Cannae, the [unspec E] Romane Empire was wholly defeited and foiled. Say also, that certaine it is, how all Italie is at point readie to revolt, tell me first and formost, whether any one Nation of the Latine people is fallen from them to us? Secondly, whether any one person of the five and thirtie wards in Rome, is run away, and fled to Anniball? When Mago said nay, and denied both. Why then (quoth hee) there be great numbers of our enemie still behind. But I would gladly know what courage, what heart, what hopes, that multitude hath. When Mago answered, he could not tell. And no∣thing (quoth Hanno) is more eife and easie to bee knowne. Say man, sent the Romanes any Em∣bassadours to Anniball to treat for peace? Nay, had yee any intelligence brought unto you, that there was so much as one word lisped, or mention made at Rome of peace? When Mago said flatly, nay, to that too. Why then (quoth Hanno) by this account, this warre will find us [unspec F] worke, and keepe us occupied as much as it did, the very first day that Anniball set foot in Italie. Howe variable for tune was in the former Punicke warre, how victorie went and came reciprocally, wee are most of us yet alive that well remember. Wee never sped better, nor had a luckier hand, both by land and sea, than before Caius Luctatius, and Aulus Posthu∣mius were Consuls. And whiles Luctatius and Posthumius were Consuls, were wee vanqui∣shed

and utterly overthrowne before the Ilands AEgates. And in case now (which God forfend) [unspec G] fortune should chance to change and turne her wheele, hope yee to have peace then, being o∣vercome, which now when we are conquerours, no man offereth nor seeketh after. For mine owne part, if any man should aske mine opinion of peace, either to present and tender it to the enemies, or to accept it at their handes, I wote well what to say: but if yee would knowe what I thinke concerning those demaunds of Mago, my advise is, that there is no sence nor reason to send aide and supplies to conquerours: now if they beare us in hand, delude, and abuse us with a vaine and false persuasion of conquest and victorie, much lesse a great deale.

These remon∣strances of Hanno tooke small effect with many of them: for, both the secret grudge and ran∣cor which he bare to the Batchin house, much impeached his credit and authoritie, and also by reason that their mindes were so fully possessed of the present joy, they could admit and abide to [unspec H] heare of nothing, that might sound otherwise to daunt their glad harts; thinking verily that the warre would soone be at an end, if they now would straine a little and helpe it forward. And ther∣fore with great consent, there passed an Act of the Senate, That there should be a supplie sent un∣to Anniball of fortie thousand Numidians, fortie Elephants, and many talents of silver. Also the Dictatour was sent before with Mago into Spaine, to levie and hire twentie thousand foot∣men, and foure thousand horsemen, for to make up those broken armies which were in Italie and in Spaine. But these matters (as usually it hapneth in time of prosperitie) were performed but slackly and at leisure. The Romanes contrariwise, made more speed; as being by nature more industrious: and besides, such was their adverse fortune and extremitie, that they might not sleepe their affaires and go slowly about their businesse. For neither the Consull was wanting in [unspec I] any affaires that were by him to be managed: and the Dictatour M. Iun. Brutus, so soone as hee had performed all the complements concerning sacrifices and religious ceremonies, pro∣posed unto the people, That (as the usuall manner was) he might mount on horsebacke. Which done, over and besides the two legions of cittizens, which in the beginning of the yeare had bene levied and enrolled by the Consuls, and the bondslaves that were before mustred, and cer∣tein squadrons gathered togither out of the Picene & Gaules countrie; he proceeded to the last remedie and succour of a distressed and well neere desperate state, when as honest and direct courses must give place unto commodious and profitable pollicies, and alight from his horse, and made proclamation, That whosoever were guiltie & condemned of any capitall crime, or whosoever were imprisoned for debt, & wold willingly serve under him, he would take order that [unspec K] they should be exempt from all punishment, & discharged from their creditours. And of such he armed sixe thousand, with the spoyles of the Gaules, which in the triumph of Flaminius were carried in shew. Thus he departed from Rome five and twentie thousand strong.

Anniball having possessed himselfe of Capua, and solicited the Neapolitanes once againe, and sounded their minds, proposing before their eies feare and hope, and all in vaine, led his forces into the countrie of Nola: with this minde, not at first to go roughly with them to worke, and by way of open hostilitie, because he was not out of all hope, that they would willingly come off and yeeld themselves: but in case they hasted, and answered not his hope and expectation in some good time, hee would surely proceed against them in all extremitie, and put them to whatsoever they could endure or feare. The Senate, and especially the principall of them, con∣tinued [unspec L] fast and sure in their alliance with the people of Rome. But the commons (as their maner is, desirous of alteration, and to see a new world) enclined wholly to the side of Anniball, casting many doubts, and feares, that their lands and possessions should be wasted and spoiled, with sundrie calamities and indignities that follow upon siege: neither wanted there heads and ring∣leaders of a rebellion. Whereupon the Senat (for feare least if they should seeme to thwart and crosse them, they had not bene able to withstand the violence of the multitude once up and drawne to an head) closely dissimuled their intent & purpose, and so by temporizing, prevented a present mischiefe. For they made semblance that they liked well, and were resolved of re∣volting unto Anniball: but upon what conditions and capitulations, they should enter into new league and amitie, they knew not certeinly. So having taken a farther time, they dispatched in [unspec M] hast certeine Embassadours unto the Rom. Praetor Marcellus Claudius, who remained with the army at Cannusium, advertising him in how great jeopardie the state of Nola stood, to wit, That Anniball was alreadie lord of their lands, and the Carthaginians would soone be maisters of the citie, unlesse they were succored & relieved: that their Senat were driven to this shift, for to

[unspec A] yeeld unto the commons, and graunt to revolt whensoever they would have them; and by that meanes staied them that they rebelled not over hastily. Marcellus after hee had commended the Nolanes, willed them with the same dissimulation to protract time and hold off untill his com∣ming: & in the mean while, to conceale & keepe secret to themselves, the dealings and treaties with him, and in no case to be knowne of any hope they had of aid from the Romans. Himselfe went from Cannusium to Calatia, and from thence passed over the river Vulturnus, and by the way of Satricula and Trebia, journied over Suessula through the mountaines, and arrived at Nola. A litle before the comming of the Romane Pretour, Anniball was departed & gone out of the territorie of Nola, and drew downewards to the sea side neere unto Neapolis: his teeth watered at the port-towne, and that out of Affricke his ships might arrive thither, as to a safe [unspec B] and sure harbour. But after that hee heard that Napleswas held by a Romane provost, M. Iuni∣us Syllanus (sent for thither by the Neapolitanes themselves) and had received a garrison: seeing hee could not be admitted into Neapolis, no more than into Nola, he went to Nuceria. Ha∣ving beleaguerd it round a long time, and often assaulted it forcibly, and assaied to sollicite as well the Commons as the Nobilie, but without effect; at the length by famine he forced them to yeeld, and so became master of the towne, upon composition, That they should depart eve∣ry man disarmed, in their single garments. Then, as one that would seeme ever from the begin∣ning, to use clemencie to all Italians, but onely the Romanes; he made faire promises of great rewards & advancement to honor, unto all those that would tarrie behind & serve under him. But no man upon those hopes wold remaine with him. For they all gave him the slip, and went [unspec C] sundrie waies, some to their friends and acquaintance, others at a venture as their minde stood, to divers citties of Campane, but most to Nola and Naples. Amongst the rest, there were al∣most thirtie Senatours, and those (as it fell out) of the best sort, that came to Capua: but being kept out there, because they had shut their gates against Anniball, they went to Cumes. The pillage of Nuceria was bestowed upon the souldiours, the cittie sacked and burnt. Now kept Mar∣cellus Nola, not presuming more upon the strength of his owne garison, than upon the confi∣dence he had in the great men and chiefe of the cittie. But he had the commons in jealoasie, and aboue all, one L. Bantius, who for that he had complotted to rebell, and therefore stood i•• feare of the Romane deputie; one while was pricked and incited to attempt treason, and to be∣tray his countrie; another while, in case he should faile of that opportunitie, and misse his pur∣pose, [unspec D] to make an escape and run away to the enemie. A courageous & lustie yong man he was, & the bravest Cavalier in those daies of all the Roman confederates. His hap was to be found ly∣ing halfe dead among the heapes of slain bodies before Cannae: Annib. tooke order for the cu∣ting of his hurts, & when he was throughly healed, right courtessy sent him home well & bounti∣fully rewarded. In rememberance of which favour and good turne; and in token of thankfulnes, he was willing to deliver & yeeld Nola into the hands of Anniball, to be at his devotion. But the Pretour had an eye unto him, & observed how his head wrought, and was busily occupied to bring an alteration. And seeing there were but two waies to deale with him, either by punish∣ment to keepe him short, and cut him off; or by some benefit to winne his heart: he thinking it a better course; to gaine unto himselfe so hardie and valiant a friend, than onely to bereave his [unspec E] enemie of him; he sent for him, & in this manner spake friendly unto him.

You have (quoth hee) amongst your countriemen and fellow cittizens, I see well, many that envie you, as it appeares well by this, that there is never a neighbour you have at Nola, that hath told me of you, and how many noble exploits and good services in warre you have performed. But yet your valour cannot be unknowne and hidden, ever since you served in the Romane armie. For many there be that were souldiours then with you, which have made report unto me of your prowesse, and what perils you have entred into, and how often you have put your life in hazard, for the safetie and honour of the people of Rome and namely; how in the battaile before Cannae, you gave not over fight, untill at length having bled well neere to death, you were borne to the ground and lay under foote, overwhelmed with men, horse and armour, falling upon you, and so kept down [unspec F] that you could not rise up againe. But be of good cheere man, and go on still in this thy ver••ue and well doing: you shall have at my hands all honour and reward that may be possible: and the oftener you come to me and keepe me companie, you shall find it will be more for your reputa∣tion and commoditie both. The young man was glad at heart for these gracious words & large promises: and so Marcellus gave unto him freely, a goodly brave courser, and commaunded the

* 1.5 Treasurer to tell him out in monie Bigates of silver, charging his officers & Lictors to let [unspec G] him have accesse unto him at his pleasure, whensoever he came.

By this courteous usage and hu∣manitie of Marcellus, the young mans stout heart was so doulced, mollified, and easie to bee wrought, that of all Confederates and Allies there was not one, who bare himselfe more valiant∣ly, nor maintained more faithfully the State of Rome. When Anniball was approched to the gates of Nola (for he was returned from Nuceria, and come thither againe) and the Commons within the towne practised afresh to rebell, Marcellus had a little before the comming of the enemies retired and put himselfe within the wals: not for fear that he should not be able to keep the field and his hold; but least he should give advantage and opportunitie to betray the cittie, seeing too many of them within, disposed and forward thereunto. After this, they began on both sides to arraunge their battailes in array, the Romanes under the wals of Nola, the Carthagini∣ans [unspec H] before their owne fort. Small skirmishes there were, between the cittie & the campe of An∣niball (with variable event of fortune) because the Generals were not willing, either to denie and debarre some few that were so eager and forward to call for fight, or yet to give forth the signall of a generall battaile •• Whiles these two armies temporised thus, and held their corps de guard, continually, and in manner of a solemne set Assemblie, the cheefe Nobles of the No∣lanes advertised Marcellus, that there used to be night-meetings and conferences betweene their owne Commons and the Carthaginians: and that it was plotted and set downe, That when the Roman host was issued in battaile ray out of their gates, the Commons in the mean while should fall to rifling of their carriages, packs, and trusses within, and then shut the gates upon them, and keepe the walls: and so having the cittie, an d all their goods and baggage under their hands [unspec I] should from thence forth receive Anniball into the cittie in steed of Marcellus. Vpon these ad∣vertisements, Marcellus after he had thanked and commended the Senatours of Nola, determi∣ned before any commotion and mutinie arose within the wals, to trie the fortune of a battell. A•• those three gates that stood toward the enemie, he raunged his forces, devided into three battail∣lons, & gave order, that all the cariages should follow after: and that the lackies, launders, & other camp-followers, together with the feeble and sickly persons, should carie stakes and pales for the rampier. At the middle gate he placed the flour & strength of the legions, together with the Ro∣mane Cavallerie: at the two gates of either hand, he bestowed the new souldiours, the light ar∣mour, and the auxiliarie horsemen of allies. The Nolanes were by streight commaundement forbidden to approch the gates or the wals. As for the baggage & carriages, the ordinarie guard [unspec K] was appointed to attend thereupon, for feare, least while the Legions were busie in fight there should bee some assault made upon them. In this order and array marshalled they were, within the gates. Anniball, who likewise readie arraunged, stood with banner displaied (as hee had done for certaine daies together) untill it was well toward noone, first wondered at it, that neither the Romane armie issued out of the gates, nor any souldiours appeared upon the wals: & supposing afterwards, that their usuall complors and conventicles were discovered and revealed, and that for very feare they kept within and sat still, sent backe part of his souldiours into the campe, with commaundement, in all speed to bring abroad into the open field before the vaunt guard, all the ordinance and artillerie for to batter the cittie walls, with assured confidence, that if hee came hotely upon them, and gave an assault, whiles they thus lingered and issued not forth [unspec L] the Commons would make some tumult and stirre within the cittie. But anon, as every man was busily occupied, running to and fro in hast about his owne charge, before the vaunt guard and forefront of his battaile, even at the point when hee advaunced forward to the walls; all upon suddaine a gate was set open, and Marcellus caused the trumpets to sound the al'arme, and the souldiours to set up a shout, commaunding the footmen first, and then the horse to sallie out and with all the might and force they could, to charge upon the enemie. Soone had they terrified their main battell sufficiently, & made disorder there, when at the two gates of each side, P. Vale∣rius Flaccus, and Caius Aurelius, two Lieutenants generall, issued forth upon their flanckes and wings. The horse-boies, skullions, and the other multitude abovesaid, which was set to guard the carriages, arose up and made a new outcrie & shouted, so as to the Carthaginians (who con∣temned [unspec M] them before for their small number especially) they represented all at once a shew of a mightie armie. I dare not avouch that which some Authours sticke not to write, that of enemies were slaine in this medley 2300: and that the Romanes lost but one onely man. But what victory soever it was, either so great, or smaller, surely a doubtie peece of service was that day atcheeved

[unspec A] and I wot not whether I may truly say, of the greatest consequence that any ever was, during the time of that warre. For as the time was then, it was a greater matter for the Romanes (albeit they were the conquerors) not to be vanquished of Anniball, than it was afterwards to vanquish him. Anniball disappointed of his hope to win Nola, retired to Acerre. And Marcellus immediately having shut the gates, and placed the guards and warders to keepe the same, that no man might goe forth, sat judicially in the market place to examine those that had used secret conference and parling with the enemies: & finding above seventie, guiltie of this action, pronounced sentence of death upon them, as in case of treason. Those he cut shorter by the head, & commaunded their goods to be confiscate. And thus leaving the governement of the cittie to the Senat thereof, he departed with all his forces, and above Suessula encamped himselfe, and there abode.

[unspec B] Anniball being come before Acerre, first summoned the cittie, to surrender voluntarily and without constraint: but seeing them obstinate, and not willing to relent, he made preparation to lay siege unto the towne, and to assault it. But the Acerranes had better heart and courage, than might and strength to resist him. Therefore, when they saw themselves like to bee entrenched all about, and were past hope to defend and keepe the towne: before the enemies had brought all ends of their trenches and sconces together, they got between the trenches & rampiers (where they were not finished, and stood not close together) in the dead time of the night, and escaped through the sentinels and watches that were slenderly looked unto, and as well as they could, ma∣king shift through by waies and blind lanes, over hedge & ditch (as either their wits guided them, or their feare carried them) recovered those citties of Campania, which they knew for cer∣taine [unspec C] were not revolted, but persisted true and fast unto the Romanes. Anniball after he had put Acerra to the sacke, and set it on fire, having intelligence, that the Romane Dictatour and the Le∣gions were received at Casilinum: and fearing, least while the enemie lay so neere encamped, some should have recourse also into Capua, led his armie to Casilinum.

At the same time Preneste was held by 500 Prenestines, with a few Romans and Latines, who upon the newes of the overthrow at Cannae, were retired thither. These Prenestines, by occasion that they were not levied and mustered at Preneste, by the day appointed, set out from thence somewhat too late; and were come as farre as Casilinum, before the rumour was bruited of the defeature before Cannae: where they joined themselves with other Romanes and Confederates, set forward from Casilinum, and marched together with a good great companie: but meeting [unspec D] by the way with the tidings of that unfortunat field, turned back again to Casilinum. And after they had spent certain daies there, as well fearing the Campanes, as suspected of them againe, (for they devised on both sides how to entrap one another, and how to avoid each others trains), & having received also certain intelligence, That in Capua there was treating about a revolt, and that Anniball was there received; they in one night set upon the townesmen of Casilinum, & kil∣led them, and got that part of the cittie which is on this side Vulturnus, (a river that runneth through it, and devideth it into two parts) and kept it still. Their number was well encreased by the comming of a cohort of foure hundred and sixtie Perusines, who likewise were driven to Casilinum, by the same report and news, which a few daies before had turned the Prenestines thi∣ther. And surely there was sufficient almost of armed souldiers, to man & defend the wals of that [unspec E] part, being of so small a circuit as they were, considering the towne was flanked on the one side with the river. And againe, for the proportion of corne (whereof they had small store) they were men but too many. Anniball being now not farre from thence, sent before him the Getuli∣ans, under the conduct of a captaine named Isalca; with direction, that first, if he could come to a parlie, he should persuade with the inhabitants within, and by faire words induce them to open their gates, and receive a garison: but in case they continued still in their obstinacie, then to as∣sayle them by force, and give the attempt to enter into the citie one way or other. When they were come under the wals, the barbarous captain Isalca, supposing (because he heard no noyse, & saw no sturring) that they had quit and abandoned the towne and were fled, began to assaile the gates, breake open the locks, and burst the barrs. But all at once on a sodaine, the gates were set [unspec F] open, and two cohorts well appointed and provided for that purpose within, sallied forth, with an exceeding noyse and tumult, overthrew a number of the enemies, and beat them downe. Thus when the first had the repulse and were set back, Maharball was sent with a greater power to second them, but was not able to make his partie good with these squadrons that sallied forth & charged upon him. At the last Anniball himselfe encamped even before the wall, andwith all

his powre and forces put together,* 1.6 made preparation to give assault to this little towne, and [unspec G] small garison. And whiles he preassed hard upon them with fresh and hote assaults, investing it round about, the enemies from off their walls, curteines and turrets, let flye their shot so lustily upon the assailants, that he lost some of his best and most forward men there. Once they issued forth of themselves upon a braverie, and minded to bid them battaile, but by a course of Ele∣phants set betweene them and home, they had like to have bene shut forth and kept out, and so they made hast in great feare to recover the gates and put themselves within the towneagaine; having lost, considering so small a number, a great sort: and more had dyed for it, but that the night parted the fray, and made an end of the skirmish. The morrow after, the assailants were all of them sharp set to give a fresh and hot charge, but not before there was a murall coronet of gold shewed, and promised unto him that first could skale the walls. And the Generall himselfe [unspec H] cast in their teeth and reproved them for being so long about the assaulting of a small and weake skonse, to speake of, seated also upon a plaine: wheras before they had woon the strong towne of Saguntum. He put them in mind both all and some, of Cannae, Thrasymenus, and Trebia. Then began they to set mantilets and pavoises to, and to undermine. Many and sundry enterprises were attempted, and nothing left undone, that either by fine force could be performed, or by art and cunning devised. The Romane associates against these their engins and fabricks, raysed mounts, and platformes: yea and with countermines and crosse trenches, met with the mines of the enemies; so as both above ground, and underneath, they impeached all their attempts; so long, untill Annibal for very shame was faine to give over his imprease for the present. And when he had fortified his standing camp, and placed there a meane gard for the defence of it, because [unspec I] he would not seeme to have relinquished altogether the enterprise, he withdrew himselfe into Capua, there to winter. There he lodged his souldiers within house for the better part of winter: those souldiours I say, who many a time and often had endured long, and held out against all travailes and hardnesse that can possibly happen to the body of man; and never had bene used to any good keeping, nor acquainted with delights and pleasures of the world. But even these men, whom no calamitie, no miserie could tame and overcome, were spoyled and undone with too much wealth and excessive deinties: and so much the rather, as they more greedily fell there∣to; and having not tasted thereof before, gave themselves wholly that way, and were deepely plunged and drowned therein. For sleeping on soft beds, wine and delicate fare, wenching and bathing, stewes and hotehouses, idlenesse and taking ease, which by use and custome grew plea∣sant [unspec K] and delightsome unto them every day more than other; had in such sort weakened their bo∣dies, and made their harts so effeminate, that from that time forward, the reputation and name only of their victories past, defended them more, than any present strength & vigour they had: in so much, as expert and skilful warriours judged their Captaine Anniball in more fault, and farther overseene in this action, than in not leading his armie streight forward to Rome, after the bat∣taile before Cannae. For, that stay might have bene thought to have differed onely the entire and finall victorie for a time, but this error and oversight, seemed to dishable him for atchieving the victorie for ever. So little retained he of his former old discipline, that I assure you, he went out of Capua againe, as if he had led some other armie, and none of his owne. For, not only they returned from thence most of them intangled and snared in the love of harlots, but also so soone [unspec L] as they came againe to lye abroad on the bare earth under tents and pavilions covered with beasts hides, to march long journeys, and to tast of other militarie toyle and labour; their bo∣dies so tyred, their harts so fainted, as if they had bene raw souldiers, new come into the field: in such wise, as all the time of their sommer abode in campe, many of them without licence and pasport, would slip out of the way, and depart from their colours: and these start-backs had no other place of haunt to lurke in, but Capua. Now when the winter season began to be more mild, and draw toward the Spring, Anniball brought forth his souldiers out of his wintering har∣bours, and returned to Casilinum: where, albeit the assault ceassed, yet the siege had continued so streight, that the townesmen and the garison within the fort, were driven to extreame necessi∣tie & want of victuals. Now the Captaine over the Romane camp was T. Sempronius [Gracchus] [unspec M] by reason that the Dictatour was gone to Rome to take new Auspices. And as for Marcellus, who was desirous for his part to relieve and succour the besieged, was impeached for comming to them, partly by the rising and swelling of the river Vulturnus, and partly by the intreatie of the citizens of Nola and Acerrae, who greatly feared the Campanes, in case the garison were

[unspec A] once departed from them. And Gracchus, lying and keeping neere unto Casilinum, stirred not one foote, by reason of the expresse commandement of the Dictatour, That he should attempt nothing in his absence: albeit there came dayly from Casilinum into the campe such newes, as would have moved and provoked the most patient man that was. For it was constantly reported, and for certaine knowne, that some of them within the towne, no longer able to endure the fa∣mine, threw themselves downe headlong, and brake their necks: others stood unarmed upon the walls, offring their bare and naked bodies as a butt and marke to the shot of arrowes, and o∣ther darts. Gracchus greeved much to heare these piteous tidings, yet durst he not for his life, skirmish and fight without the warrant of the Dictatour: and he saw full well, that if he would convey come and victuals unto them openly, fight he must, there was no remedie. Having there∣fore [unspec B] no hope at all to send any, but it should be spied, he devised to fill many tunnes and pipes with come, that he had gotten together out of the countrie all about: and withall, to dispatch a messenger to the chiefe magistrate of Casilinum, advising him, that he should in the night season take up all those vessels which came downe the river. The night next following, every man wat∣ched at the river side, according to the hope they conceived by the foresaid Romane messenger, and so received those tunnes, hulling downe the midst of the streame: and the corne was equally devided among them all. Thus did they the morrow after, and the third day also. For, ever by night these vessels were let downe into the water, and the same night they might easily come un∣to them: by reason whereof, the sentinels and guards of the enemies, were nothing ware of that which was done. But afterwards, the current growing more swift and rough, by occasion of [unspec C] continuall raynes that fell, the sayd tunnes were some of them driven crosse the channell to the banke side, even where the enemies warded: and were espied waving and sticking among the willowes and oisiers that grew along, close unto the banks: whereof Anniball was advertised. And so from thence forward, they tended the watch more streightly, that nothing sent downe the river Vulturnus, could escape them, and passe to the cittie. Afterwards, there was powred into the water great store of nuts, from the campe of the Romanes; which floated downe the channell unto Casilinum, and with grated skimmers of wicker were taken up. But at the last, they within the towne were driven to this poore shift and extremitie, for to take their thongs and bridle raines, to plucke off the lether from their shields & bucklers, and make them sort in skalding water, and prove how they could eat them. Nay, they spared not so much as [unspec D] mice, and rats, nor any other like vermin. Nor there was not a weed nor a root that they could come by, upon the banks and terrasses under the walles, but they gathered & diged up. And when the enemies had turned up with a plough all the green sord of the counter-skarpe without the wals, they within, cast turnep seed upon the mould. Whereupon Anniball made a hout at it, and cried alowd: What? shall wee sit heere about Casilinum so long, untill these rapes be come up and grown. And whereas before that time, he would never vouchsafe to heare of any compo∣sition and agreement, now at last, he was contented to take reason, and be conferred withall, a∣bout the raunsome of as many, as were freemen within the towne. And it was covenanted be∣tweene him and them, that they should pay for their redemption * 1.7seven ownces of gold a peece. So upon faithfull promise made, & securitie given, they yeelded themselves: andwere kept [unspec E] bound in prison untill they had made full payment of the gold aforesaid. After which, they were sent backe under safe conduct to Cumes. For this is more like to be true, than the report which goeth, That there were sent out after them certeine horsemen, who fell upon them & slew them in the way. Most of them were Prenestines. And whereas, there were of them in all, five hundred and seventie in garrison, the one halfe well neere, were either by sword or hunger consumed: All the rest, togither which their Praetour Manitius (one who a foretime had bene a Scribe or Notarie) returned safe unto Preneste. In memoriall & testimonie of this, his Statue was erected in the market place of Preneste, armed in his cuirasse, clad in a long robe, with his head covered: and three other images, with a title or inscription engraven in a place of Brasse, with this tenor: That Manitius had made a vow for the soldiers who lay in garison with him at Casilinum. And [unspec F] the same title also was graven under three other images, set up in the temple of Fortuna. The towne of Casilinum was restored againe to the Campanes, with a strong garison of 700 soul∣diours, deducted out of the armie of Anniball: for feare least when hee was departed once from thence, the Romanes should assaile them.

The Senate of Rome by vertue of a decree, granted unto those souldiours of Preneste double

wages, with five yeeres vacation and rest from warfare. And when, to gratifie them farther for [unspec G] their valiant service, they made offer unto them of the Burgeosie and freedome of Rome, they chose rather to remaine still at home, and would not change their owne countrie. But what be∣fell unto the Perusines, is not recorded so plainely: for neither appeareth evidence by any pub∣like monument and memoriall of their owne, nor yet decree extant of the Romans. At the same time the Petellines (who alone of all the Brutij remained in friendship and amitie with the Ro∣manes) were assaulted not onely by the Carthaginians, (that were possessed of a great part of the countrie about them) but also by the other Brutij, with whom they would not joine in the complot of their rebellion. The Petellines not able of themselves to hold out and endure these daungers, sent their Embassadours to Rome, for to crave their aide and assistance: whose humble praiers and pitteous teares (for after an answere received, That they should provide and [unspec H] shift for themselves; they fell into lamentable mones and complaints, & lay prostrate upon the earth, before the porch of the Counsell-house) wrought exceeding compassion and pitie in the hearts both of the Senatours, and also of the people: whereupon the LL. were moved again the second time, by M. Acmylius the Pretour, to deliver their opinion. And when they had cast all about, and well waied and considered their present state, and what they were able to do: being forced to confesse, that it lay not in their power to help their Allies, so far distant & remote from them: they willed them to repaire home againe; and since they had performed their fidelitie to the full, according to covenant, they gave them leave in this calamitie of theirs, to take that course, that they thought best for themselves. When they were returned with this answere unto the Petellines, their Senate all on a suddaine was strucken into such sorrowes, dumpes, and fear∣full [unspec I] maze; that some of them were of mind, and gave advise, to abandone the cittie, and flie eve∣rie man wheresoever he could: others were of opinion and persuaded, that seeing they were for∣saken of their old friends, they should joyne with the other Brutij, and by their meanes, turne to Anniball, and come under his protection. Howbeit, a third side prevailed, who would in no wise that any thing should be done over hastily and rashly: but that they might meet againe, and sit in counsaile about the matter. And so it was put off, and respite given untill the next day. Then, after more mature deliberation, and their former feare somewhat assuaged, the principall per∣sonages there assembled, grew to this resolution, namely, To convey all things out of the terri∣torie about them into the cittie, and to fortifie both it and the walles.

Neere about one and the same time, there came Postes with packets of letters to Rome, from [unspec K] out of Sicilie and Sardinia. Those out of Sicilie from Octacilius the vize. Pretor, were read first in the Senate-house, importing these newes: That L. Furius the Pretour, was come out of Affricke, and with his fleet arrived at Lilybaeum: himself sore hurt, & lying at point of death: that neither souldiours, nor sailors, and marriners, had their monie or come, duly paid at the day; neither indeed was there any to bee had, for to keepe touch and make paiment: moving and advising them earnestly, to send supplie thereof, with all convenient speed: and if they thought so good, one also of the new chosen Pretours to succeed after him. To the same effect in manner, wrote Cornel. Mammula the Propretor, out of Sardinia, as touching that point of money and corn. An∣swere was returned to the one and the other, That they had it not, & therefore they were to looke themselves both to their Armadoes and armies, and to provide for them. Octacilius, who ad∣dressed [unspec L] Embassadours unto K.Hiero (the only refuge & stay of succor, that the people of Rome had) received for souldiers pay, as much silver as was needfull, and come to serve sixe moneths. The confederat cities likewise in Sardinia, contributed liberally unto Cornelius, and served his turne. At Rome also for want of silver, there were (by a law published by Minutius, Tribune of the Commons) created three Bankers, called Triumviri Mensarij, to wit, L. Acmylius, who had ben Consull and Censor: M. Attilius Regulus, twise Consull asore time: and L.Scribonius Libo, a Tri∣bune of the Commons for the time being. Two Duumvirs also were chosen, M. & C. Attilij, who dedicated the temple of Concord, which L. Manlius Pretour, had vowed before. Three high Priests also were consecrated, Q. Cecilius Metellus, Q. Fabius Max. and Q. Fulvius Flaccus, all to supplie the roomes of P. Scantinius late deceased: of L. Acmylius Paulus the Consull, and Q. Ac∣lius Paulus, [unspec M] slaine both in the journey of Cannae.

Now when as the LL. of the Senate had fulfilled other wants, and made up all decaies and breaches, which fortune by continuall calamities and losses had wrought and brought up∣on them, so farre foorth, as by any wisedome and pollicie of man, they could provide for at

[unspec A] length they had respect and regard unto themselves also, even to the desolat estate of the Coun∣sel-house, and the unfrequent number of Senatours, assembling to the publike Counsell of the cittie. For since that L. Acmilius and C. Flaminius were Censors, there had bene chosen no new Senatours, notwithstanding that in five yeares space, what with unfortunate battailes, and what with other particular chaunces, so many of them had miscaried.

And when M. Acmylius the Pretour, in the absence of the Dictatour (who after the losse of Casilinum was now gone againe to the host) had at the request of them all, propounded this matter: then Sp. Carvilius, after he had in a long oration complained, not only of the penurie, but also of the small choyse of those citizens, who were capable of Senatours dignitie, spake unto the point, and said, That he held it a matter of good importance both for the full repairing and restoring of the decayed bodie of [unspec B] the Senate, as also for to bind the Latine nation in a more fast bond of amitie, that two Sena∣tors out of every State of the Latines (if the LL. of the Senat of Rome would agree unto it) should be enfranchised citizens of Rome, and taken into the Senate in place of those that were deceased.

This opinion of his, the LL. of the Senate could abide to heare, with no better eare, than in times past they accepted the motion & demaund of the Latines themselves inthat behalfe.

And there being throughout the whole house a great muttering, for very indignation & disdein of those his words, Manlius above the rest brake out into this speech & said, That they were not all dead, but one man yet was left alive of that house & line, out of which a Consul (when time was) threatned in the Capitoll, that he would kill with his owne hand, that Latine whomesoever he saw sitting in the counsell house of Rome. With that Q. Fabius: Never was there a thing, quoth he propoun∣ded [unspec C] and mentioned in the Senate house, in a worse and more unseasonable time, than at this present, when ••s the hearts and affections of our Allies being so wavering, their faith and allea∣geance so doubtfull, the very breaking and broching of such a matter as this, were enough to set them farther out. And therefore this inconsiderate speech of one foolish vaine person, is to be suppressed and buried presently with the silence of all men, and never once to be spoken of a∣gaine. And if ever there were uttered at a counsell table, any secret and mysterie, which were to be concealed, this of all other ought most to be kept close, hidden and smothered in oblivion, and reputed as never spoken at all. So this matter was dasht, and dyed there in the very birth.

Then they proceeded and agreed, to create Dictator for the choosing of Senators, one that had bene Censor aforetime, and of all those who had bene Censors, and were then living, the most [unspec D] auncient: and thereto they gave order, that C. Terentius Varno the Consull should be sent for, to the nomination of that Dictatour. Who being returned out of Apulia, leaving the camp there with a good guard, and taking long journeys, untill he was come to Rome: the night next follo∣wing (as the maner was) created by authoritie of an act of Se••at, M. Fabius Bu••co, Dict. for 6 mo∣neths, without a Generall of horse.

When he was mounted up with his Serjeants to the Rostra, [which is the place of publike audience] for to make a speech unto the people, he sayd, That he neither allowed of two Dictatours at one time, (a precedent never seene and knowne afore) not yet could take himselfe for a Dictatour, so long as hee was without his Generall of Cavallerie. I mislike also (quoth he) that the entier authoritie and power of Censors, should bee put into the hands of one and the selfsame man, twice: & that a Dictator should have the rule & government [unspec E] for sixe moneths, unlesse he were created for the managing of warres. And therefore (said hee) I will my selfe limit and gage those things, which fortune, occasion of the times, and necessitie have made excessive and beyond all measure powerfull. Neither am I minded to depose or dis∣place any of those from his Senatours dignitie whom C. Fl••minius, and •• Acmylius late Cen∣sors, have admitted into the Senate: but only, that a transcript and rehearsall bee made of their names, for that I would not have it lie in the power of one man alone, to censure and give judge∣ment of the same and behavior of a Senatour: but this course will I take in substituting newe Se∣natours in the roume of the dead, that it may appeare, and be said, That this Order and degree is preferred before that, and not one person before another. So after that the names of the olde Senatours were copied out and read, then he chose first into the place of them that were decea∣sed [unspec F] those who after the time of L. Acmylius and C. Flaminius Censors, had borne any Magistra∣cie of State, and of the chaire, and yet were not elected Senatours.

And according as they had exercised their office one before another in order of time, so were they chosen first Senatours in their course. This done, he made a second election, of those who had bene AEdiles, Tribunes, Pretors, or Questors: and last of all, such as could shew the spoyles taken from the enemies of

Rome hanging in their houses: or had bene honoured and rewarded with a Civick garland. [unspec G] Thus after he had with right great approbation and contentment of all men, taken into the Senate 177, forthwith he resigned up his office, descended from the pulpit a private man againe, discharged and put from him the Serjeants, and came and stood beneath among the other mul∣titude that attended their owne private businesse: trisling out the time for the no•••••• and of pur∣pose, because he would not have the people to leave the common place for to wait upon him. Howbeit, for all that lingering and stay which he made, the peoples affection cooled never the more, and so with a goodly traine of men he was accompanied, and conducted home to his house.

The next night following, the Consull returned toward the armie, without making the Senate privie and acquainted with his departure, for feare he should have bene deteined still in the citie [unspec H] for the solemne election of new Magistrates. The morrow after the Senate decreed; upon a mo∣tion propounded by M. Pomponius the Pretor, to write unto the Dictatour, that if he thought it were for the good of the common weale, he would together with his Generall of the Cavallerie, and M. Marcellius the Pretour, repaire to Rome to subrogate and choose new Consuls, to the end that when they were all together in place, the LL. of the Senate might by them take knowledge in what state the Common wealth stood, and consult how to provide for everything. They all came that were sent for accordingly, leaving behind them their Lieutenants for the goverment and conduct of the Legions. The Dictator spake of himselfe but little, and with much modestie, ascribing the greatest part of the honor unto T. Sempronius Grac••hus, and then summoned the generall assembly for the Election: in which were chosen Coss. D. Posth••mius the third time (who [unspec I] then was absent, and as L. Deputie ruled the province of Gallia) and T. Sempronius Gracchus, who at that time commaunded the Cavallery, and repaired to Rome with speede. Then were elected Pretors M. Valerius Levinus, Ap. Claudius Pulcher, Q. Falvius Flacc••s, & Q. Mulins S••aevol••. The Dictatour after the choosing of these Magistrates•• returned to Theanum, where the armie win∣tred: leaving the Generall of the horse behind at Rome, to the end that he being to enter into his government, within few dayes after, might consult with the LL. of the Senate as touching the levie and enrolling new armies against the yeare ensuing.

Whiles they wer•• in their busiest and deepest conferences about these matters, newes came of a fresh overthrow: such was the fortune of that yeare to heape one calamitie in the neck of another: to wit, that L. Posthumius the Consull elect, was himselfe slaine, and the armie togither [unspec K] with him in Gallia•• utterly defeited and destroyed. The manner of which misfortune was this. There was in those parts a wide and huge forrest (which the Gaules call Litana) through which Postliumius was to leade his army. * 1.8 The trees there growing on either hand of the pase, the Gaules had so cut, that they might stand upright of themselves so long as they were not stirred, so, be∣ing forced never so little, they must needes fall downe. Now had Posthumius the conduct of two Romane legions; and of associates besides, from the high costs of the upper sea, he had enrolled so many soldiours, as that he came into the enemies countrey 25000 strong. The Gaules who had bestowed themselves in ambush round about the skirts of the wood, so soone as the armie was all engaged within the streights of the pase, shoved from them the trees (so gue••ded) which stood next unto them, and they fell one upon another (standing as they did•• so ticklish of [unspec L] themselves, and readie to totter and come downe on both sides of the way) and in the fall ove••∣threw withall and covered over and over both horse and man, with their armour and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, so as skarse ten of them escaped alive. For as most of them were felled and strucken starke 〈◊〉〈◊〉•• either with the bodies of the trees, or the broken armes and boughes; so the rest of the multi∣tude, affrighted with this unexpected and unhappie accident•• were killed by the Gaules that beset all the streights and passages of the wood: and of that great number, they tooke few priso∣ners, who making towards a bridge standing over the river, were intercepted by the way, and stopped by the enemies that kept the advenue of the bridge in which place 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was slaine, for he strived all that ever he could, not to be taken alive. The spoyles of this Generall captaine, together with the head cut off from the rest of his bodie, the Bo••a••s with great joy and [unspec M] solemnitie brought into the temple that amongst them was reputed most holy & sacred. And after they had clensed the head, as their manner is, they encha••••ed and garnis••ed the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with gold, and that served as well for an holy vessell to sacrifice and give say withall, upon high and fe∣stivall dayes, as also for an ordinary drinking mazar for the high Priest••, and other 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of that

[unspec A] temple. The bootie also which the Gaules gained of their enemies, was of no lesse importance than the victorie: for although a great part of the beasts and living creatures was crushed and squeased to death with the fall of the wood, yet all other things, by reason that nothing was scat∣tered and lost by flight, were found wholly on the ground, as the souldiers lay along in that order as they marched.

These wofull tidings being reported, the cittie was for many daies in such feare and perplexi∣tie, that all shop windowes were shut up, and no stirring at all in the streetes throughout, from one end to the other, as if it had beene night continually. Then the Senate gave the Aediles in charge to walke all about, and commaund the shops to be set open, and to make no more shew in the cittie of publicke sorrow and heavinesse.

Then T. Sempronius assembled a Senate, spake [unspec B] comfortably to the LL. of the Counsell, and exhorted them, that as they were not dismaied with the overthrow and discomfiture at Cannae, so they would not be cast down & daunted with ligh∣ter and smaller losses and calamities. For if it might please the gods to blesse them; & give them good speed (as they hoped no lesse) against the Carthaginian enemies and Anniball, the war with the Gaules might without daunger and inconvenience either be laid aside clean, or put off and deferred. As for the revenge of this deceitfull practise, it should rest still in the power either of the immortall gods, or of the people of Rome, to bee performed one time or other. But for the present, they were to consult and resolve concerning Annibal their grand enemie, & to grow to some point and conclusion of such forces as were meet for that warre.

And first himselfe dis∣coursed and laid downe what companies of foot and horse, what number of citizens, & how ma∣ny [unspec C] confederats were in the armie of the Dictator. After him, Marcellus shewed and recounted the proportion of his own power & their strength. Also, what forces, and of what qualitie, were with C. Terentius the Consull in Apulia, they were required to declare, who might speake upon their knowledge. Then they proceeded to cast & examine, whether two Consular armies well appoin∣ted and furnished, were sufficient to go through so great a war. Thus for that year they let France alone, albeit they had good cause to bee angrie, and were provoked that way to follow revenge. The Dictatour his armie, was appointed unto the Consull. As for the forces under the leading of Marcellus, consisting of them that fled out of the field at Cannae, those they ordained to bee sent over into Sicilie, there to remaine in service so long as the warre continued in Italie: and that thither also should be posted over out of the Dictatour his Legions, all those souldiors who were [unspec D] able to doe least service, there to abide in souldierie, without any other limitation of time than that, which the * 1.9 laws in that case provide for. For the other Consull, who should be substituted in steed of L. Posthumius, there were assigned two Legions of Romane cittizens: and order was given, so soone as the Auspices would permit, hee should bee elected with speed. Likewise it was agreed upon and ordained, to send for two legions besides out of Sicilie: out of which, the Cos. unto whom those Legions aforesaid of the cittie were allotted•• should take what souldiours hee thought needfull. Finally, C. Terentius the Consull, had his commission of commaund continu∣ed for another yeare, without empairing one jot of the armie, which hee had in his conduct for the guard and defence of Apulia.

Amids these affaires and preparations in Italie, the war went forward nevert••elesse in Spaine, [unspec E] and ever to that day prospered on the Romanes side. P. and Cn. Scipions devided their forces so, as Cn. should serve by land, and Publius at sea with the navie. Asdruball the cheefe Colonell and commaunder there of the Carthaginians, distrusting his owne strength both by sea & land, kept himselfe aloofe, and farre from the enemie, in sure places of safetie. Vnto whome, after long suite and instant praiers, were sent 4000 foot, and 500 horse out of Affricke for supplie. Having thus at length, with new helpes gathered fresh hope, he encamped neerer to his enemie, and gave order and direction withall, that the Armada should bee rigged and decked for the defence of the Islands, and the sea coasts. And whiles hee was thus beginning hotely to make warre againe, hee was suddainely distempered and disquieted with the revolt of the Admirals and great captaines of the navie: who for their fearefull abandoning of the fleet upon Iberus, having been sharpely [unspec F] checked and rebuked, were never after trustie and sure, either to the Colonell himselfe, or to the State of Carthage. These fugitive renegates had first practised to raise troubles & insurrections in the land of the Carpesij, and by their solliciting & instigation, certaine citties were procured to rebell, and one of them they had forced by assault. Whereupon, Asdrubal turned his forces from the Romanes, and bent them wholly against that Nation: and with a cruell armie entring the

frontiers of the enemies, determined to give the charge upon Galbus, a Nobleman, and renow∣med [unspec G] cheefetaine of the Carpesians, even before the cittie, that some few daies before was lost, where the said Galbus with a puissant power kept himselfe strongly encamped. Having therefore sent out before, certaine vaunt-courriers lightly armed, to traine forth and draw the enemies to skirmish, he made out withall certaine companies of his Infanterie sundrie waies to overrun and spoile the countrie, and likewise to catch up and meet with all straglers, dispersed in the fields. Whereupon, at one time there was a skirmish before the campe: and likewise in the fields, they were either slaine, or put to flight. But afterwards, having by divers waies from al parts recovered againe the campe, suddainely they shaked off all feare, plucked up their harts, & thought them∣selves good ynough, not onely to defend their fort and hold, but also to bid the enemie battaile. They sallied out thereforeof thecampe in good array, shouting, dauncing, and hopping after [unspec H] their manner, so as this unexpected boldnesse and courage of theirs, terrified the enemies, who a little before had challenged them to fight. Whereupon Asdruball himselfe withdrew and reti∣red his power for more securitie to an hill of good height, and situate for his advantage, with a river likewise betweene him and his enemies. The light armed vaunt-courriors also, and the for∣lorne hope, together with the horsemen that rode scattering abroad, he caused thither to repaire for their better safetie. And because he trusted neither hill nor river, hee fortified himselfe with a trench and rampier besides. In this alternate and interchangeable feare on both sides, there pas∣sed some bickerments; and blows were dealt between. In which, neither the Numidian horsemen were able to match the Spaniards in that kind, nor the Moores archers could make their part good with the light Carpesians targatiers, who innimblenesse & swiftnes were as good as they; [unspec I] and for courage and bodily strength, farre better. These Carpesians seeing they neither could provoke Asdruball to a battaile, with all their braving hard under his campe, nor yet easily by assault win it, they tooke by force the citie Asena, into which Asdruball when he first invaded the frontiers of his enemies, had conveighed store of corn and other victuals: yea, and became LL. of all the countrie thereabout. And they grew so lustie & audacious, that neither in their march and array, nor within their campe they would bee ruled and ordered by any mans commaund. This secure and carelesse negligence of theirs, when Asdruball perceived to arise (as usually it doth) upon good successe and prosperitie; after an exhortation made to his souldiors, to charge upon the enemies, roving abroad without their coulors, he descended from the hil, and marched in battaile array against their campe. So soone as the Spaniards were advertised by those who [unspec K] came in great hast, and fled from the Sentinels and corps de guard, that he was comming, & neere at hand, with a great outcrie they gave the al'arme. And as every man could get weapon in hand they ran upon the head to battaile, without direction and commaundement of captain, without signall, ensigne, and order, confusedly. When the formost in the vaward were joined in conflict and come to hand fight, some of their fellowes were seene running on heapes and by troupes, and others were not well come forth of the campe. At the first the enemie was terrified with their bold adventure. Afterwards, as they encountred, thin and losely raied, with the enemies thicke and closely raunged together, seeing themselves too weake, & not sufficient, so few in num∣ber to defend th••mselves, they looked backe one upon another for succour: and being on everie side put backe, and forced to recule and lose ground, they cast themselves into a ring, and thus [unspec L] thrust (as they were) close together, bodie to bodie, and armour to armour, they were so pent and pestered in so narrow a ground, that they had scarse roume ynough to weld their weapons: so they were compassed and environned round with the enemie, and for a good part of the day hewen, in peeces, and massacred. Some few of them that brake through by dint of sword, escaped to the woods and mountaines. With like feare the campe was abandoned: and the day following, the whole nation yeelded, and came under the subjection of the Carthaginians.

Long they continued not quiet. For within a while newes came from Carthage, that Asar••∣ball should make what speed he could with his armie into Italie. Which rumour being blowne abroad through Spaine, turned in manner all their hearts away unto the Romanes. Whereupon Asdruball addressed his letters immediately to Carthage, shewing what hurt the fame of his de∣parture [unspec M] had done alreadie: and in case hee should set forward on his journey, and go out of those parts, all Spaine would turne to the Romanes, before hee were passed the river Iberus. For over and besides, that he had not strength ynough to leave behind for a garrison, nor a sufficient com∣maunder in steed of himselfe, the Generals of the Romane armies, who had set foot in Spaine,

[unspec A] were such, as he might hardly make head against them with equall puissance. And therefore, if they had any regard of Spaine, he advised them to send one to succeed him with a strong power: For he should have his hands full, and ynough to doe in the province, fall out things as fortu∣nately as they could. These letters, albeit at the first fight they greatly troubled the Senate, yet because the Italian affaires seemed of more moment and greater importance, they wrought no alteration in their intended course, either for Asdruball himselfe, or his forces. Howbeit Himilco was sent with a complete and competent armie, and a greater Armada, both for the holding of Spaine in their alleageance, and also for their defence by sea and land. Who having passed over with all his power, as well for land-service as the sea, fortified his campe, drawne his ships ashore, laid them up in drie land, and empaled them strongly all about; himselfe in person with his elect [unspec B] and most choise menof armes, made what hast possiblie hee could, through nations partly ene∣mies, partly doubtfull and untrustie, and staied not either in one place or other (but evermore standing upon his guard) untill he was come to Asdrubal. After he had declared unto him the or∣der decreed by the Senate, and what he had in commission, and taken himselfe direction likewise from him, in what manner the warre in Spaine was to be managed, he returned backe againe to his owne campe. In which voiage to and fro, hee travailed safely by no one thing more, than by speedie expedition. For hee was ever gone from a place, before the people could agree together, and make head against him. Now Asdruball, before that hee dislodged and set his armie on foot out of those parts, levied summes of money of all the citties and stares under his jurisdiction: for well he knew, that Anniball had paid sweetly before him, for his passage through certaine coun∣tries: [unspec C] and as well he wist besides, that the Gaules he was faine to wage: for amongst them no mo∣ney; no men. And if he undertooke and entred upon that great expedition, poore and bare of sil∣ver, hee had never reached so farre as the Alpes. Thus having in great hast raised and collected his monies, he came downe to the river Iberus.

When the Romanes heard of the proceedings and designements of the Carthaginians, and likewise of the journey of Asdruball: both the Generals (laying all other matters apart) prepa∣red, to joine their whole forces togither, to oppose themselves, and to withstand such intended attempts: supposing and considering, that if Anniball (who by himselfe alone was an enemie to Italie hardly supportable) were once seconded by Colonell Asdruball and the Spanish armie, the Empire of Rome would soone be at an end. Vpon these carefull cogitations being grieved [unspec D] and perplexed, they assembled all their power neere to Iberus: and after they had passed over the river, and long counsailed whither they should encampe themselves and abide the comming of the enemies to bid them battaile; or by invading and assailing the associates & subjects of the Carthaginians, to stay the enimie & hinder his intended journie: they resolved at length & made preparation to assault Ibera, (so named of the river neereby) the richest and most wealthie cittie at that time, of all other in those parts. Wherof when Asdruball was advertised, he for to helpe his friends, advanced himselfe likewise to set upon another citie lately yeelded to the Romans, and reduced under their subjection. And so the Romanes after they had begun to lay siege to Ibera, gave over that enterprise, and made head against Asdruball himselfe. And for some few daies, they lay incamped five miles asunder one from the other, not without some light skirmi∣shes: [unspec E] but never came to pitch a faire field. At length upon one and the same day (as if they had bene so agreed afore) they hapned on both sides to set out the signall of battaile, and to come forth with all their power into the plaine ground. The Romanes stood arranged in three battai∣lons: one part of the Infanterie was placed before the standards in the vaward, another regi∣ment bestowed behind in the reregard: the men of armes flanked the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 like wings. On the o∣ther part, Asdrubal strengthned his main battel with Spaniards in the right point he marshalled the Carthaginians, in the left, the Affricanes. As for the auxiliar & mercenarie horsemen, whom he waged and hired; such as were Numidians, he ordained afront the Carthaginians footmen, to guard them: the rest that were Affricanes, hee distributed and disposed about the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and edges of the battailons. Neither were all the Numidians placed in the right flanke, but such as [unspec F] after the guise and manner of Vaulters, led two horses apeece: and used often times in the mids of the hottest conflict, to leape armed as they were from their wearied horse, to another fresh one. So nimble are they themselves, and so t••actable and well taught to their hands are their horses. Thus stood they arranged on both sides in order of battaile. The Captains of either part for hopes in manner nothing unequall: for neither in number or qualitie of souldiours, was

there any great oddes betweene them: Marie, for courage and heart, there was great difference [unspec G] and inequallitie in the souldiours themselves. For the Romanes (notwithstanding they fought farre from home) were so persuaded by their leaders, that they fought for Italie and the cittie of Rome: and therefore, as if the whole hope of their safe returne into their countrie, were to be tried and decided in this one battaile, they resolved either to winne the day or do die for it. On the other side, the soldiours were not so resolute, for most of them being Spaniards, would have chosen rather to bee conquered and overcome in Spaine, than with conquest and victorie to be drawne into Italie. And therefore at the first shocke, when scarcely the darts and javelins were lanced & let flie, their maine battaile reculed: and so soone as the Romanes with great violence redoubled the charge, they turned their backes and fled. Howbeit in both flankes the fight was hote enough. The Carthaginians of the one side, the Affricans on the other, charged the Ro∣mans [unspec H] very hard, and fought sore against them, as if they had them invironed round about with∣in their battailons. But when as the whole power of the Romanes were once rallied and gathe∣red togither in the mids, they were strong enough to remove and set backe the wings of the e∣nemies. So they maintained fight in two divers places at once. But both in the one & the other, the Romames (after they had discomfited the maine battaile in the mids) were no doubt, much better, as well in number, and also in strength and vigour of men. Many a tall fellowe was there slaine. And had not the Spaniards at the first when the battaile was scarce begun, fled amaine by heapes, very few of the whole battaile had escaped and remained alive. The horsemen fought little or not at all. For the Moores and Numidians, so soone as they espied the battaile to shrink and loose ground, presently all on a suddaine fled as fast as they could, & left the sides & flankes [unspec I] of the said battaile naked, driving afore them the Elephants withall. And even Asdruball him∣self, who mainteined the medley to the very last, escaped with some few out of the thickest massa∣cre and execution. The Romanes tooke their campe and rifled it. This battaile was of such im∣port and consequence, that it caused all the Spaniards, who were before but wavering, to turne wholly to the Romanes: and left Asdruball no hope at all, to passe with his forces into Italie, not so much as to make abode with safetie in Spaine. The newes hereof being bruited abroad and sent to Rome, by the letters of the two Scipions, great joy there was, not so much for the victo∣rie, as because Asdruball was tied by the foot, and staied for comming into Italie.

Amids these exploites in Spaine,* 1.10 Petelia (a citie of the Brutij, having endured the siege and many assaults for certaine moneths) was finally won by Himilco, one of Anniball his captaines. [unspec K] But that victorie cost the Carthaginans much bloud, and manya sore wound. No force nor vio∣lence overcame the besieged Petelians more, than very famine. For having consumed and ea∣ten up all food of corne, all flesh of foure footed beasts whatsoever: they were driven at length to feede and live upon shoomakers lether, weeds, and roots, tender barkes of trees, & the crops of briers and brambles: and they gave not over so long as they were able to stand on their legs upon the walles, and beare their armour.

Anniball after the winning of Petelia, conducted his armie against * 1.11 Consentia, which being not so valiantly defended, was within few daies surrendred up into his hands. Neere about the same time, a power of the Brutians also, laid siege unto Croton, a cittie built and inhabited by the Greekes, and in times past, mightie in men and munition: but now at this time so distressed [unspec L] with manifold and grievous calamities, that of all ages one with another, they were not able to make twentie thousand men. And therefore no mervaile, if the enemies were soone maisters of the cittie, being so destitute as it was of cittizens to defend it. Onely the castle they kept still, into which there were some that escaped in that tumult when the cittie was taken, out of the mids of the massacre. The Locrians likewise revolted unto the Brutij and the Carthaginians, by reason that the common multitude were fraudulently betraied by the chiefe and principall cit∣tizens. The Rhegines onely of all that countrie, continued both true unto the Romanes, and al∣so at their owne libertie to the very last. The same disposition to revolt, was to bee seene even in Sicilie, in so much as the very house of Hiero was not cleere and free in all parts from rebellion. For Gelo his eldest sonne, having in contempt both the olde age of his father, and also (after the [unspec M] overthrow at Cannae) the societie and friendship of the Romanes, turned unto the Carthagini∣ans. And he had, no doubt, made a general alteration in Sicilie, but that his death came between and cut him off; which hapned so jumpe•• even when he was arming the multitude, and soliciting his friends to rebellion, that his v••••y father himselfe was drawne into deepe suspition that hee

[unspec A] tooke his life away. These were the occurrents that fell out that yeare with variable event, in Ita∣••ilic, Affricke, Sicilie, and Spaine.

In the end of the same yeere, Q. Fab. Maximus moved the Senate, and made request, that the temple of Venus E••ycina, which he had vowed being Dictatour, might now be dedicated. And the Senate made a decree, That Titus S••mpro••lus, Consull elect; should so soone as he was en∣tred into his office, propose unto the people, that they would creat two D••••mvirs for the dedi∣cation of temples. And in honour of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lepidus, who had bene Consull twise•• and Au∣gur, his three sonnes, Lucius, Marcus, and Quintus, exhibited certeine funerall games for three daies space; and a shew in the Common place likewise for three daies togither, of two and twentie paire of sword-fensers, to fight at sharpe to the utterance. The ••uru••e Aediles, ••. Lecto∣rius, [unspec B] and ••. Sempronius Graccus, now Consull elect, who in his Aedileship had bene Generall of the horsemen, set out the Romane games, which were renewed and continued still for three daies. Likewise, the Plaies of the Commons, were thrise exhibited by M. Aurelius Cott••, and M. Cl••••diu•• Marcellus. Now after three yeeres expired of the Punick warre, T. Sempranias 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Consull, began his government upon the * 1.12 Ides of March. As for the Praetors, Q. Fulvius Flac∣cus, who had afore time bene Consull and Censor, obteined by lot the jurisdiction of the citti∣••ens: and M. Valerius Co••vinas, of the strangers and alliens. To Appius Claudius Pulcher was alot∣ted the government of Sicilie: and to Q. Mutius Sc••••vola of Sardinia. M. Marcellus was by the people allowed to have the authoritie of a Viz Consull, in regard that the above all the Romane captaines, after the defeature of Cannae, mannaged his affaires & warred prosperously in Italie.

[unspec C] Now the very first day that the Senate was assembled in the Capitoll, they decreed upon the first motion, that within the compasse of that yeare, there should be levied a double taxe or tri∣bute: and that one single tribute should be forthwith gathered, for present pay to all the soul∣diours, saving those that served at Cannae. Then concerning the armies this order was set downe: Imprimis, that T. Sempronius the Consull, should appoint the two legions of citizens a certaine day to meete at Cales. Item, that sixe legions should be conducted to the campe of Claudius a∣bove Sucssula. Item, that the legions which there were (and those consisted for the most part of the residue of the Cannian 〈◊〉〈◊〉) Ap. Claudius Pulcher the Pretour, should put over sea into Sicilie: and as for those that were in Sicilie, they should be transported to Rome. Item, unto that armie which was appointed to meet by a day, at Cales, M. Claudius Marcellus was sent: and he was [unspec D] commaunded to conduct the legions of the citizens to the camp of Claudius. Last of all, to re∣ceive the charge of the old armie, and to leade it into Sicilie; T. Metilius ••roto Lieutenant, was sent by Ap. Claudius. Men looked at first, and yet they sayd nothing, that the Consull should call an assembly for the creating of a Colleague unto him. But after that they saw that M. Marcellus was sent out of the way (as it were of purpose) whome above all others they were desirous to be the Consull for that yeare, in regard of his notable good service whiles he was Pretour, there a∣rose much muttering in the Senate house.

Which the Consull perceiving: my LL. quoth he, it was for the good of the Common wealth, that both M. Claudius should go into Campaine to exchange the armies: and also that the Election of Consuls, should not be proclaimed, untill that he were returned againe from thence, with dispatch of that businesse which he had in [unspec E] charge: that ye might have a Consull, such a one as the present condition of the State re∣quired, and your selves most desired. So there was no more speech of the election, untill Mar∣cellus was come backe againe.

In this meane time were two Duumvirs created, Q. Fabius Maximus for the dedication of one chappell to Venus Erycina, and T. Octacilius Crassus, of another to the Goddesse Mens. Both stand upon the Capitoll hill, devided asunder no more than with one•• onely condu••ct of water passing betweene. And as concerning the three hun∣dred Campaine horsemen, who had served out their full time of warfare faithfully, and were come to Rome, a motion was propounded to the people, that they should be enfranchi∣sed cittizens of Rome: and in like manner, that they should be reputed as free Denizens of Cumes, from the day afore that the Capuans revolted from the people of Rome and rebel∣led. [unspec F] The chiefest cause of proposing this act, was this, because themselves denied flatly that they knew, to whome they did appertaine, seeing they had abandoned their old native countrey: and as yet were not enrolled and incorporate into that state, unto which they had retyred. After that Marcellus was come againe from the armie, the solemne day of election of a Con∣sull in place of L. Posthumius, was published. And with exceeding great consent of all men,

Marcellus was chosen: and forth with he was to begin his Magistracie. At whose first entrance, it [unspec G] hapned to thunder: and the Augurs being called to give their opinion of it, pronounced, that they thought hee was not rightfully created. And the Senatours gave it out commonly & brui∣ted abroad, that the gods were not well pleased therwith, because (forsooth) two Coss. were ele∣cted of the communaltie (a thing never seene before.) Whereupon Marcellus resigned up his place, and in his roome was substituted Fabius Max the third time.

That yeere the sea burned. At Sinue••••a a cow brought forth a horse fole. And at Lanuvium in the temple of Iuno Hospita, certeine statues or images dropped with bloud: & about that tem∣ple it rained stones. For which showre, there was solemnised, according to the customable man∣ner, a Novendiall sacrifice. The other prodigious signes likewise were expiate with great care and heedfull regard. The Consuls then, parted their armies betweene them. Fabius tooke charge [unspec H] of those forces which had bene commaunded by M. Iunius the Dictatour. Sempr••nius had the conduct of all the voluntary souldiers; and besides of 25000 of Auxiliaries sent from the confe∣derates. M. Valerius the Pretour had the legions appointed for him, that were returned out of Sicilie. M. Claudius the Vizconsull, was sent unto that armie, which lay in garison at Nola, above Suessula. And the Pretours tooke their journey into Sicilie and Sardinia. The Consuls, whenso∣ever they would assemble the Senate, proclaimed that the Senatours, and all others that had lawfull authoritie to speake their mind and deliver their opinion in the Counsell house, should meet at the gate Capena. The Pretours, those that were Iudges in the court, and to whom the ci∣vile jurisdiction appertained, erected their Tribunall seats and places of Assises at the publicke Fishpoole, and thither they commaunded all writs to bee returned, and apparence there to bee [unspec I] made. And for that yeare all pleas and iudgements of causes passed there.

In this meane time newes came to Carthage (from whence Mago the brother of Anniball was minded to transport and set over into Italie 12000 footmen, and 1500 horsemen, 20 Ele∣phants, and 1000 talents of silver, together with a guard and supplie of 60 gallies) That in Spaine things went untowardly: and that all the cities of Spaine (in a manner) were revolted unto the Ro∣manes. Some there were of opinion, to withdraw Mago with that fleet and power of his, from the enterprise of Italie into Spaine. Considering there was good hope shewed of a suddaine, to recover againe Sardinia, for that there was but a small power of Romanes there; and Cornelius the old Lord Deputie, well acquainted with the state of the province, was now upon his depar∣ture from thence, and a new expected in his turne. Over and besides, that the Sardinians were [unspec K] wearie alreadie of the Romanes government, which they had so long endured, as who the yeare that past was, had tyrannised over them cruelly, and exercised their authoritie with oppression, covetously imposing upon them hard exactions and tributes, and levying of them a most unjust taxation and contribution of come: and finally they wanted nothing but an head, upon whome they might relie themselves. To this effect there was an Embassage sent secretly from the Lords and Princes of the Island. And the principall actour and procurer hereof, was Hersicora, a man in those daies of greatest authoritie and power among them. Vpon these tidings aforesaid, hap∣pening so just at one time, they were both disquieted and also refreshed. So they sent Mago with his fleet, and other forces into Spaine: and they chose for the expedition into Sardinia, Asdruball surnamed Calvus, for the L. Generall, furnished and appointed with as great a power almost, as [unspec L] Mago had.

At Rome likewise, the Consuls having dispatched the affaires of the citie, addressed them∣selves to the war. T. Sempronius appointed Sinuessa to be the Rendez-vous, where the souldiours should meete at a certaine day. And Q. Fabius, by an order and direction from the Senate, made an Edict, That all men should before the first day of Iulie next ensuing, gather all their come out of the countries, and convey the same into the principall walled strong townes: proclaiming that whosoever did not accordingly, their fields he would lay wast; sell their servants in port sale at the speare, and set their farmes and villages a fire. Not so much as the Pretors themselves (created for civill jurisdiction and to decide law matters) were freed and exempted from the conduct of warre. As for Valerius the Pretor, he was appointed to goe into Apulia, for to receive [unspec M] the armie of Terentius: and when the legions were returned out of Sicilie, to imploy them espe∣cially for the guard and defence of that countrie; and that the armie of Terentius should be sent with some one of the Lieutenants. And M. Valerius had 25 saile allowed him, to keep and defend all the sea coasts betweene * 1.13 Brundusium & * 1.14 Tarentum. The like number of ships was assigned

[unspec A] to Q. Fulvius the citie Pretor, for to guard the river side, neere adjoyning to the citie of Rome. C. Terentius the Proconsull had in charge to take up by commission souldiours in the Picene countrey, and to guard those quarters. And T. Octacilius Crassus, after that hee had dedicated the temple of Mens in the Capitoll, was sent into Sicilie, as Lord Admirall of the Armado there.

Vpon this warre betweene two of the mightiest citties, and most puissant states of the world, there was not a king and prince, no nor a Nation under heaven, but was amused. Among whom Philip king of the Macedonians, had an eie thereto, and was more intentive, in that he was nee∣rer unto Italie, and onely devided from thence by the Ionian sea. Hee at the first, when the bruit came to his eares, That Anniball was passed beyond the Alpes: as hee joied much, that there was [unspec B] warre kindled betweene the Romanes and the Carthaginians, so, as long as it was uncertaine, whether nation was the stronger, he wavered in mind and was in suspence, whether of the twaine he should wish to have the victorie. But after that he heard once, that in three severall battailes one after another, Anniball and the Carthaginians had gotten the better hand, hee enclined to the fortunate side, and sent Embassadours unto Anniball: who falling off, and desirous to avoid the havens of Brundusium and Tarentum, which were guarded and kept by the Romane fleet, arrived and landed at the temple of Iuno Lacinia: and so through Apulia, travailing toward Ca∣pua, chaunced to light upon the mids of the Romanes corps de guard, and were brought before M. Valerius Levinus the Lord Deputie, being then encamped before Nuceria. Where Xeno∣phanes, the principall of the Embassadours, bashed not to say, That he was sent from king Philip, [unspec C] to treat and conclude a league and amitie with the people of Rome, and had commission & di∣rection to the Consuls, to the Senate likewise and people of Rome, to that effect. Valerius taking great contentment to heare of this new societie and friendship with so noble a king, especially upon the rebellion of so many old allies, courteously intreated and friendly entertained this false hearted enemie, in steed of a trustie friend: & appointed diverse to accompanie him forward, to guide him carefully in the waies, and to shew him what places, what passages and streights were held and kept, either by the Romanes, or the enemies. Xenophanes with these instructions passed through the middest of the Romane guards into Campania, and so the next way arrived at the campe of Anniball, and made a league and amitie with him, under these conditions and capi∣tulations. Imprimis, That king Philip should with a right puissant Armada (for that he was suppo∣sed [unspec D] able to set out 200 saile) passe over into Italie, wast and spoile all the sea coasts; and to his power maintaine war by sea and land. Item, That when the warre was finished, all Italie, together with the very cittie of Rome should be possessed by the Carthaginians and Anniball, and unto him all the pillage and bootie likewise should belong. Item, When Italie was thus subdued, that they should saile into Greece, and wage warre with what Princes there they pleased, and that all the citties of the maine, and the islands which lay to Macedonie, should fall unto Philip, and bee annexed to his kingdome. In these tearmes, and upon these articles, in manner, was the league concluded and confirmed betweene the Generall Anniball, and the Embassadours of the Mace∣donians: and with them were sent backe unto the king for the better ratifying of the said cove∣nants, certaine Lega••es, to wit, Gisgo, Bostar, and Mago, who arrived together at the same temple [unspec E] aforesaid, of Iuno Licinia, where there rid closely a ship at anker, expecting their returne. From whence being departed, they were not so soone launched out into the deepe, and had taken the open sea, but they were descried by the Roman fleet that guarded the coasts of Calabria. Q. Ful∣vius Flaccus made out certain Corcyreans, to pursue & fetch in that ship. Wherupon, the Ma∣cedonians began to flie, but seeing themselves overmatched in swiftnesse of saile, and not able to make way with them, they yeelded themselve sunto the Romans, & were presented unto the Ad∣mirall. Who demaunded what they were, from whence they came, and whither they were bound. Xenophanes who had already sped ••o well by making of a lye, began to cog againe, and say, That he was sent from Philip unto the Romanes: that he came unto M. Falerius; because to him onely he was able to passe in safetie, but could not possibly get beyond Campania, being so strongly [unspec F] kept with garisons of the enemies. But afterwards, upon the sight of the Carthaginian habite and apparell, they began to suspect the embassadors of Anniball: and they being questioned withall, their speech and language bewraied them. Then was their retinue taken apart, and threatned to confesse. Letters also were found upon them, sent from Anniball unto Philip, con∣cerning the peace betweene the king of the Macedonians and Anniball. Vpon these matters

thus detected and certainely knowne, it was thought good to convey the Embassadors and their [unspec G] companie with all speede prisoners to Rome, unto the Senate there, or unto the Consuls where∣soever they were. To this purpose were chosen five pinnasses that were most swift, under the con∣duct of L. Valerius Antias, who had his direction and charge to part these embassadors in seve∣rall ships, and keepe them sure asunder: and to take good heede, that they neither talked nor conferred together.

About the same time it happened at Rome, that Au. Cornelius Mammula, upon his depar∣ture out of the province Sardinia, made report in what state the Iland stoode, namely, that they all enclined to rebellion and warre: that Mutius who succeeded after hym, presently upon his first comming, by reason of the ill aire and unholsome water, was fallen into a sick∣nesse, not so quick and dangerous, as chronick and tedious, and would not be able long to en∣dure [unspec H] the service of warre: that the armie there, as it was sufficient to guard and keepe in good or∣der a quiet and peaceable province, so it could not hold out with the warre that was like to ensue. Whereupon the LL. of the Senate gave order, that Q. Fulvius Flaccus, should leuie and enroll 3000 foote, and 400 horse, and provide that this legion should passe over with all speede into Sardinia: and send therewith whom it pleased him to conduct and manage the warre untill Mu∣tius were recovered of his disease. For this intent was T. Manlius Torquatus sent governour; one, who had bene twise Consull and Censor, and in his Consulship had subdued the Sardinians.

Neere about the same time, there was an Armado set out from Carthage unto Sardinia, un∣der the leading of Asdruball surnamed Calvus, and being sore tossed and beaten with tempests, was cast upon the Baleare Ilands: where (so farre out of order was not only the ship tackling, but [unspec I] also the very keeles and bodies of the ships so shaken) they drew up the ships to shore, and whiles they stayed there about calking and trimming them againe, they spent much time.

In Italie whiles the warres began to slake and waxe cold, by reason that after the battaile of Cannae, the strength of the one part was much abated, and their force decayed, and the courage of the other, well allaied and made effeminate: the Campaines upon their owne heads began to contrive, how to reduce the State of Cumes under their obedience, first soliciting them to revolt from the Romanes: and seeing that course would not speede and take effect, they devised by a fraudulent practise to compasse and entrap them. The Campanes use yerely to solemnise a set feast and sacrifice in a certaine place called Hamae•• and they gave notice unto the Cumaines, that the whole Senat of Capua would resort thither: requesting the Senat of Cumes likewise to [unspec K] meete them there, for to conferre and consult together in common, how both cities, the one and the other, might have the same friends and the same enemies, and no other: geving them withall to understand, that they minded there to have a good guard aboutthem of armed men, for feare of some sodaine and dangerous attempt from the Romanes. The Cumanes, albeit they suspected some treacherie, denied nothing, supposing thereby to colour and cover their owne craftie intended designement. Now all this while, ••. Sempronius the Romane Consull, having surveied and purged his armie at Sinuessa, at which place he had made proclamation, that his forces should meete together: passed over the river Vulturnus, and encamped neere unto Liu∣ternum: where because the souldiers in the standing campe had nothing els to do, he exercised them to run often the race and skirmish in aray, to the end that the raw souldiers (for such were [unspec L] the voluntaries for the most part) might by use and practice learne how to follow their colour•• in good order, and in the time of battaile know their owne ranks and ensignes. In these kinds of training, the speciall care that the Generall had, and the onely thing that he aimed at, was their concord and good agreement. And for this purpose, he charged the Lieutenants, and the Colonels and Captaines, that they should not cast in any mans teeth one or other, their fortune and condition aforetime, thereby to breede any discord & hartburning among the companies: and that the olde experienced souldiours should suffer themselves to be but equall in estate to the new learners: and those that were borne free unto the voluntaries, who had bene slaves: re∣puting them all of birth good enough, and of gentle bloud descended, unto whom the people of Rome had vouchsafed to commit their armour and ensignes: saying, that the same fortune [unspec M] which had driven them so to do, forced them likewise to mainteine the same, and make the best of it, now it was done. The captaines were not more carefull in giving these good lessons and in∣structions, but the souldiers were as diligent to observe the same: and within a while their hearts and affections grew to bee so linked and united togither, that they forgat generally, in what de∣gree

[unspec A] and of what condition each soldiour entred into service. Whiles Gracchus was busied here∣about, the Embassadours of Cumes certified him, what kinde of Embassage came unto them from the Campan••s, a few daies before, and what aunswere they had returned: advertising him that their festivall daie was to be holden three daies after: that not onely the whole Senat would be present, but also the campe and armie of the Campanes. Gracchus having commaunded the Cumanes to convey all that they had out of the fields & territories about, into their cittie, and themselves to keepe within their walles: himselfe the day before the solemnitie aforesaid of the Campanes, removed his power to Cumes, and there incamped. Now Hamae is three myles off from thence. The Campanes by this time were assembled there in great number, according to appointment: and not farre from the place, Marius Alfius the chiefe head magistrat of Ca∣pua, [unspec B] was incamped closely with fourteene thousand souldiours. Hee, what with preparation of the sacrifice, and contriving withall, the deceitfull traine of treacherie, was more busie & care∣full thereabout, than either in fortifying his campe, or in any other militarie action. Thus for three daies continued this festivall sacrifice at Hamae. And ever in the night season it was perfor∣med so, as before midnight all was done and finished. Gracchus supposing that a good time for his ambush to be emploied, having set certaine warders before the gates, that no man might go forth to give intelligence, caused the souldiours betwixt the sixt and tenth houre of the day, [from no one untill foure of the clocke] to refresh themselves and take their sleepe: that in the beginning of the darke night, they might assemble togither at the watch-word or signall given them. And about the first watch hee commaunded to display their Ensignes and advaunce for∣ward: [unspec C] and thus with a still march, hee arrived at Hamae by midnight; surprised the hold of the Campanes, and entred all the gates at once, being negligently guarded, by reason of their over∣watching. Some he killed lying along fast asleepe: others, as they returned unarmed from the sacrifice. In this night-tumult there were slaine more than two thousand, with Marius Al••ius himselfe their leader: and 43 ensignes taken and carried away. Gracchus with the losse of fewer than one hundred of his souldiours, having woon the campe, retired speedily to Cumes, for feare of Anniball, who lay in fort encamped upon Tifata over Capua. And (as hee was a provi∣dent man and of great forecast) nothing was he deceived in his opinion. For so soone as this de∣feature was reported at Capua, Annib. supposing that he should at Hamae find the armie of the Romanes (consisting for the most part of raw souldiors, and those, bondslaves) jocund and lu∣stie [unspec D] above measure, & insolent upon their fresh victorie, busie in rifling their dead enemies thus conquered, driving away booties, and charged with pillage; removed his forces in hast, & mar∣ched a pace beneath Capua: and encountred with some of the Campanes that were fled, whom hee caused betweene two guards to be conducted safe to Capua, and such as were hurt & woun∣ded, to be set in waggons and carried thither. Himselfe found at Hame the campe emptie and void of enemies, and nothing there but the tokens of a fresh massacre, and the dead bodies of his friends and allies lying here and there scattered. Some there were that advised him presently to advance forward to Cumes, and to assault the towne. And albeit Anniball was willing enough thereto, and passing desirous (seeing hee could not come by Naples) to have Cumes at least, a maritime port-towne, as well as the other; yet because his souldiours had brought nothing with [unspec E] them but their weapons, as being led forth to march in such hast, he retired backe againe to his fort and campe upon Tifata. From whence, at the importunat praiers of the Campanes, the day following hee furnished himselfe with all the ordinance and engines meet for the assault of a cit∣tie, and returned toward Cumes: and having wasted the territorie therof, he emcamped him∣selfe a myle from the towne. Then Gracchus, more for shame, that hee might not seeme to leave his associates in such necessitie, (who craved protection and recommended themselves to him, and to the people of Rome) than for any confidence and trust that hee reposed in the strength of his armie, staied in Cumes. Neither Fabius the other Consull, who was en∣camped at Cales, durst set his armie over the river Vultumus: as having be••ne busied first at Rome in renewing the Auspices and bird sights: and after that, troubled also about the [unspec F] fearefull prodigious signes which were reported one after anothers. And when hee ••ough•• expiation thereof by sacrifices, the Soothsayers made answere and said, That they could not perceive that the gods were appeased and pacified for all that hee did. Thus whiles Fabi••s upon these occasions was kept backe, Sempronius was besieged, yea and by this time assaul∣ted, with fabrickes and engines of batterie. One mightie great towre of wood there was ere∣cted

against the town. Against which, the Roman Consull raised another from the very wal som∣what [unspec G] higher than it: for that he used the wall (which of it selfe was of good height) in stead of a groundworke, and planted thereon strong postes and piles of timber to beare up the foresaide frame. From thence, at first the souldiours within, defended the towne & walles with stones, with long poles and perches and other instruments to launce against the assailants. But at length see∣ing the other turret comming forward even close to the towne wall, they ••lung thereon at once much fireworke, and burning matter: at which fires the multitude of armed men for fear leapt headlong downe the turret: and withall, they of the towne issued out at two gates at once, dis∣comfited the guards of the enemies, and drave them into their campe: so as that day Avniball was more like one besieged himselfe, than laying siege unto others. There were of Carthagini∣ans slaine about fourteene hundred, fortie wanting one were taken prisoners alive, such as about [unspec H] the wals & their Corps de gard stood rechlesse & negligent, fearing nothing lesse than a sallie out of the towne, and were suddainly at unwares taken and surprised. Gracchus sounded the retraict, and caused his men to retire within the walles, before the enemies after their suddaine fright could be rallied togither. The morrow after, Annibal (supposing that the Consull in his ruffe for this happie hand, would come into the field to fight a set battaile) arranged himselfe in array be∣tweene his Campe and Cumes. But after that, he saw no stirring at all from the usuall guard and defence of the citie, and nothing put to the rash hazard of doubtfull hope, he retired to Tifata, without any good at all done.

At the very same time that the siege was raised before Cumes, Titus Sempronius surnamed Longus, fought fortunatly in Lucania before Grumentum, with Hanno the Carthaginian: slew [unspec I] more than two thousand of his enemies, lost himselfe two hundred and eightie men, and went away with 41 ensignes. Hanno thus driven out of the confines of Lucania, retired himselfe backe into the countrie of the Brutij. And M. Valerius the Pretour, recovered by force from the Hir∣pines, three townes that had revolted from the Romanes. Vercellius and Sicilius the motifes and chieftains of that rebellion were cut shorter by the head. More than one thousand captives were sold at the speare in port sale; to who that would bid most. All the pillage besides was given to the souldiours, and the armie brought backe to Cumes.

Whiles these things hapned in the countries of the Lucanes & Hirpines, those 5 ships above∣said (wherein were embarked the Embassadours of the Macedonians & Carthaginians as pri∣soners) having set a compasse from the upper Adriatick sea unto the nether sea of Tuscan, round [unspec K] about (in a manner) all the sea coast of Italie, hapned to saile along neere the citie of Cumes and being not certeinly knowne whither they were friends or enemies, Gracchus put forth out of his fleet two pinaces to encounter them. When as by demaunding and questioning one with an∣other, it was once certified unto them, that the Consull was within Cumes, and the ships there arrived in the haven, the prisoners were brought to the presence of the Consull, and all the letters delivered. The Consull after hee had read over the letters, both of Philip and Anni∣ball, sealed them up againe sure, and sent them by land unto the Senate of Rome, but com∣maunded the Embassadours themselves to bee conducted thither by sea. When as both let∣ters, and also the Embassadours were arrived at Rome, in a manner, all in one day, and that (after due examination) words and writings agreed togither in one: at the first the LL of the [unspec L] Senate were pensive and plunged deeply into cares, considering in how great danger they stood of a new Macedonian warre, who were hardly able to endure the Carthaginian. But in conclusi∣tion, so farre were they off from being utterly dismaied hereat; and sinking under the water, that foorthwith they beganne to treate and debate, how they might begin themselves to warre with these enemies first, and so stop them from their entrance into Italie. The captive Embassadours they laid up fast in yrons: their train and retinue were sold in ouvertmarket: and besides the five and twentie ships, wherof Q. Fulvius Flacc••s was Admirall; they tooke order for twentie more to bee rigged and decked: which being provided, furnished and shot into the poole afloat, to∣gither with chose five barkes wherein the prisoners were conducted: there were 50 saile in all, that loosed from Ostia and arrived at Tatentum. Quintus Fulvius had commission to embarke [unspec M] the souldiours of Varr••, who had beene under the leading of L. Ap••sti••t the Lieutenaun•• at Tarentum, with this fleete of fiftie saile, not onely to defend the sea coast of Italie, but also to hearken and have an eye after the Macedonian warre: and in case he could learne, that the designement and intent of Philip was sutable to those letters and informations of the

[unspec A] Embassadours, then he should by his letters certifie M. Valerius the Pretor so much; and that lea∣ving with L. Apustius his Lieutenant the charge of the armie, he should go to the Armada at Ta∣rentum, and with all speed possible set over into Macedonie, and there endevor to keepe Philip play at home within his owne realme. As for that money which was sent unto Appius Claudius into Sicilie for to be repaied unto king Hicro, it was appointed unto him, for the maintenance of his Armada, and managing of the Macedonian warre. This monie was by L. Apustius the Lieutenant brought to Tarentum, and with it, there were sent from Hicro * 1.15 200000 Modi•• of wheate, and 100000 of barley.

Whiles these preparations and doings passed at Rome, one ship of those prisoners which were sent to Rome, chanced to single it selfe from the other, and to escape away to Philip: where∣by [unspec B] he was advertised, that the embassadors or commissioners were taken, and the letters inter∣cepted. But he not knowing what covenants had passed betweene Anniball and his legats, and what answere they should have brought unto him, sent forth another embassage with the same commission. The Embassadours sent unto Anniball, were Heraclitus surnamed Scotinus, Crito of Berrea, and Sositheus of Magnesia. These went too and fro betweene in safetie, these carled and recaried their errands fortunately. But the summer was come and gone, before the king could enter into action, or execute any enterprise. Of so great moment and importance was the boor∣ding of that one ship at the first with the embassadors, for the differring of that imminent warre intended against the Romanes.

When Fabius had passed over the river Vulturnus, after the expiation at length of the prodi∣gious [unspec C] tokens aforesaid, both Consuls together made warre about Capua. Fabius by assault woon these cities, Combulteria, Trebula, and Austicula, which had revolted unto the Carthaginians: and within them he surprised the garison souldiers of Anniball. Many of the Campanes likewise were taken prisoners. At Nola (like as in the yeare before) the Senate held with the Romanes, but the Communaltie tooke part with Anniball, and plotted secretly, how to murder the Nobi∣litie, and to betray the citie. But to stop the proceedings of these mischievous designements, Fabius led his armie betweene Capua, and the camp of Anniball upon the hill * 1.16 Tifata, and forti∣fied himselfe upon the mountaine * 1.17 Vesuvius, in that fort where Cla••dius had encamped before. From thence he sent M. Marcellus the Viz-Consull with those forces which he had, into Nola, there to lye in garison.

[unspec D] Likewise in Sardinia, T. Manlius the L. Deputy, began to administer those affaires, which had bene forelet, by occasion that Q. Mutius the Pretour was fallen sicke, and lay of a long and linge∣ring disease. Manlius after he had drawne the gallies ashore at Caraleis, and put the mariners and rowers in armes for land service, and received of the Pretour his armie, was able to make 22000 foote, and 1200 horse. With this power of men of armes & footmen together, he entred into the enemies countrey, and not farre from the camp of Hersicora, pitched his tents. Hersicora himselfe was by chance gone then, into the countrie of the Pellidians (a people of Sardinia) to arme the youth there, for the mending of his strength; and left his sonne named Hioslus, ruler over the campe in the meane time. He a lustie hote youth, rashly joyned battaile, and quickly was discomfited and put to flight: thirtie thousand Sardinians in that field were slaine, and upon [unspec E] 1030 taken prisoners alive. The rest of the armie first fled stragling as under over the fields, and through the woods; but afterwards, hearing by the voice that went, how their captain was fled to * 1.18 Cornus the head citie of that region, they retired thither also. And surely they had in that one battaile, made an end of all warre in Sardinia, but that the Armada of Carthage, under the lea∣ding of As••r••ball (which by tempest had been cast upon the Baleare Islands) came in time to en∣tertaine the Islanders, in hope to ••ebell. Manlius, after it was noised abroad, that the Carthagini∣an fleet was arived, retired himselfe to Caraleis: which gave Hersicora good opportunitie & ou∣verture to joine with Asdruball. Who having landed his souldiours, and sent the ships back again unto Carthage, went forward by the guidance of Hersicora, robbing and spoiling the lands of the Romane confederates: and had come as farre as Caraleis, but that Manlius with an armie en∣countered [unspec F] him upon the way, and restrained him from so Iavish overrunning and robbing the countrey. At the first they encamped one against the other, not farre asunderi afterwards, they began to put out certaine bands and companies, and to maintaine light skirmishes with vari∣able event, untill at last they pitched a set field, and in full battaile fought for the space of 4 hours. The Carthaginians held out conflict a good while, and the victorie still remained doubtfull

(for the Sardinians were ever used to have the foyle) but at last, seeing every quarter full of the [unspec G] Sardinians either lying along dead, or running away, they also were discomfited: and as they turned their backs and were about to flye, the Romanes wheeled about with that wing, where with they had defeated the Sardinians, and enclosed them round, and so they fell rather to kil∣ling than fighting any longer 12000 enemies were there slaine of Sardinians and Carthagini∣ans together, about 3700 were taken prisoners, and 27 militarie ensignes woon. This was a noble and famous battaile, memorable especially above all, for taking of these prisoners, namely, As∣druball the L. Generall, Hanno and Mago, two noble men of Carthage. Mago was of the Barchine house, neere oskin and in bloud to Anniball. Hanno was the sollicitor of the Sardinians to rebel∣lion, and no doubt, the principall author of that warre. Neither was this field lesse famous for the overthrow of the chiefe commanders of the Sardinians: for both Hiostus the sonne of Har∣sicora [unspec H] was slaine in fight: and also H••rsicora himselfe, as he fled with a few horsemen, hearing besides other calamities and losses of the death of his sonne, in the night season, because he would have no man come betweene to stay his purposed intent, killed himselfe. All the rest esca∣ped to the citie * 1.19 Cornus as they had done afore, and there as in a place of refuge sought to save themselves. But Manlius following the traine of his victorie, came against it, and within few daies was maister of it. After this, other cities also which had revolted, and turned to Harsicora and the Carthaginians, gave hostages, and yeelded by composition. And when Manlius had levied of them certaine money for the souldiours pay and corne likewise, according to the havoir and abilitie or trespasse of each of them, he led his army back to Caraleis: and there having put the gallies on the water, and embarked the souldiers that he had brought with him, he sayled to [unspec I] Rome, and recounted unto the LL. of the Senate the utter subduing of Sardinia. The money he delivered to the Treasurers, the corne to the Aediles, and the prisoners unto Fulvius the Pretour.

Much about that time, T. Octacilius the Pretour, having sayled from Lilybaeum into Affricke, and wasted the territorie of the Carthaginians, as he was bound from thence and set sayle for Sardinia, whether Asdruball as the newes went had lately crossed over from the Baleare Hands, he met with the Armada returning back into Affricke: and after a skirmish made upon the sea by his souldiers lightly armed, he tooke therewith seven gallies with their ores and mariners: the rest for feare were scattered, as it had bene with a tempest, all over the sea: And it hapned about the same time, that Bomilcar with certaine companies of souldiers sent from Carthage for a supply, and fortie Elephants, and good store of victuals, came to Locri. For the surprising and [unspec K] setting upon him on a sodaine, Ap. Claudius leading his armie in hast, and marching to Messa∣na, under a colour of visiting the Province, put over to Locres with the tide. Now was Bomilcar passed alreadie from thence into the Brutians countrie to Hanno, and the men of Locres shut the gates against the Romanes. So Appius, after much ado and preparation, having effected no∣thing, returned back to Messana. In the same summer, Marcallus made many rodes from Nola (which he held with a garison) into the Hirpines countrie, and the Samnites, about Caudium, and made such wast there, with fire and sword, that they in Samnium called into their fresh re∣membrance the old losses and overthrowes which they had received: whereupon there were sent immediatly from both nations embassadors together, unto Anniball, who in this wise delivered their speech unto him.* 1.20 We have bene enemies, ô??? Anniball to the people of Rome, first of our [unspec L] selves, and in our owne quarell, so long as our armour and forces were able to defend us: but after that our hope therein began to faile us, we drew to aside, and tooke part with king Pyrrhus.

And when he forsooke us once, we accepted of peace for very necessitie: wherein we continued for fiftie yeares almost, even untill the time that you entred into Italie. Neither was it your prowesse, vertue and fortune, rather than your singular courtesie and benignitie extended toward our countreymen and fellow citizens (whom being taken prisoners, you released and sent unto us back againe) which hath caused us to entertaine your amitie: in so much, that so long as you re∣maine our friend, alive and safe, we would not stand in dread of the people of Rome, no nor of the very gods themselves (if it be lawfull so to say) were they never so angrie against us. Howbeit assuredly, for this sommer season, we have bene divers and sundrie times so spoyled and wasted, [unspec M] not only whiles you are alive and safe, but also (which is more) present in place, where you might both heare, in manner, the wailing and weeping of our wives and children, and also see our hou∣ses on a light fire: So it seemeth it was Murcus Marcellus and not Anniball that had the victorie at Cannae. And the Romanes boast and say, That you are good at the first push only, and when

[unspec A] you have once let flie and launced the Iavelin (as it were) out of your hands, you are cleane done, and can abide no longer. We warred almost an hundred yeares with the people of Rome, with∣out help either of foreine captaine, or armie of strangers: save that for two yeares only, Pyrrhus with the aide of our souldiours, rather increased his owne strength, than by any power of his de∣fended us. But we list not to make vaunt and boast of fortunate successe and brave victories, namely, how we subdued and put under the yoke two Consuls, and two consular armies: nor of other noble exploits which hapned to our joy and honor. And as for the crosses and adversities that befell us during that time, we may report them with lesse griefe and indignation, than those that this day light upon us. Then in those dayes, mightie great Dictators with their Generals of horsemen, two Consuls at once, with their two royall hoasts, entred our territories, having sent [unspec B] out beforehand their espials andskouts, and led forth their souldiours to make spoyle; under their colours and ensignes, aranged in good order of battaile, and seconded strongly behinde. Now are we exposed as it were to be a prey of one onely garison, and that but a small one, left for the gard and defence of Nola. For, now they overrunne all our confines & borders, not by bands and companies in warlike wise, but like theeves and robbers, more carelesly and negligently, than if they raunged about for their pleasure in the Romane territorie. The only cause is this, be∣cause your selfe make no reckening to protect us: and all our owne youth (which if they were at home were able to defend us) serveth under your banner and standerd. But I know neither you, nor your armie at all: if I should not be persuaded and beleeve that he whom I wot well to have discomfited and put to flight so many Romane armies, were soone able to defeat and suppresse [unspec C] these robbers that vague about our country, stragling without leaders, and without their colours disordredly whither they list, according to the vaine hope of pillage that haleth them here and there, and, as every one gapeth for prizes, which they shall never get. No doubt but if you put forth a few of your Numidians, they will soone fall into their hands: Send but unto us a gari∣son to succour us, you shall quickly displace that other at Nola; in case you judge not us (whom you have thought worthy to be your confederates) now, unworthy to be defended, after you have received us into your protection.* 1.21 Hereto Anniball made this answere againe, and sayd, That the Hirpines and Samnites hudled up all at once together: they declared their calamities and losses, they craved ayd and succour, and they made complaint that they were neither gar∣ded by him, nor regarded of him. Whereas they should have first made declaration of their [unspec D] harmes: after, sued for help: and last of all, if they might not obteine, then and not afore they should have complained, that they had besought his helping hand in vaine. How∣beit hee promised, that hee would not bring his armie into the territorie, either of the Hir∣pines or the Samnites, least himselfe also should be chargeable and troublesome unto them, but into the next quarters belonging to the allies of the Romanes: by spoiling and wasting whereof, both he would fill his souldiours hands, and also with the terrour thereof, set their enemies farre ynough off from them. And as for the managing of the Romane war, like as the battell of Thra∣symenus, was more noble than that of Trebia; and the field of Cannae more memorable, than that of Thrasymenus: even so would he make the memoriall of Cannae dimme and obscure, in regard of one greater victorie yet, and more renowmed than the other. With this answere, and [unspec E] with honourable rewards besides, he dismissed the Embassadours, and gave them their dispatch.

And leaving a small guard to keepe the hill Tifata, hee marched in person with the rest of his ar∣mie against Nola. Thither also was Hanno come, out of the countrie of the Brutij, with the sup∣plie that he brought from Carthage, and the Elephants. Where, after Anniball had pitched his tents not farre from the towne, and made diligent enquirie, he found, that the case was far other∣wise, than it was reported by the Embassadours of his associates. For Marcellus bare not him∣selfe in any of his actions, so as it might be truly said, that he blindly committed ought to the ha∣zard of fortune, or rashly adventured upon the enemie. For he never went a boothaling, without his skoutes and espials, without setting strong guards in due places, whereunto he might retire himselfe in safetie: but had a good eye aforehim, and a warie regard and heedful forecast, as if he [unspec F] were to encounter with Anniball in person. And even then at that time, when hee perceived, that the enemie approched and was comming, he kept his forces within the citie: commanding the Senatours of Nola, to walke up and downe upon the wals, and to survey all over, & espie what the enemies did, or were about Amongst whom, it happened, that Hanna being come under the very wall, espied Herennius Bassus, & Herius Petrius, whom he called out to a parle. And when they

were gone forth unto him by the permission and leave of Marcellus, thus he spake unto them by [unspec G] his interpreter.* 1.22 First he highly extolled the vertue and fortune of Anniball, debasing & treading under foot the dignitie and majestie of the people of Rome, growing now old in time, and de∣caying in force and strength.

Which if they were (quoth hee) on both sides equall, as sometimes they were, yet seeing they had good experience, how heavie and greevous the governement of the Romanes was to all their Allies, & again, how indulgent and gracious Anniball is, even to all the captives of the Italian nation & name, they should wish rather to be in league & amitie with the Carthaginians, than with the Romans. If both Coss. were with their armies at Nola, they were no more able to match with Anniball, than they were at Cannae: much lesse might one Pretour, with a few raw and new souldiours hold out and keepe Nola against him. And as for the Nolanes themselves, it concerned them much more than it did Anniball, to consider, whether hee should [unspec H] win Nola by force, or enter upon it by surrender & composition. For to be Lord thereof he made no doubt, like as he was maister alreadie of Capua and Nuceria: but what ods and difference there is betweene the state of Capua andof Nuceria, the Nolanes know best themselves, who are sea∣ted (as it were) in the midway betweene both. Loth hee was to boden so much unto Nola, what calamities might befall the cittie, if it were conquered by assault: rather yet would hee give his word and promise, That if they would deliver Marcellus with his garrison, and yeeld up Nola in∣to Anniball his hand, they should themselves, and none but they, set downe and capitulate under what conditions they would entertaine alliance and friendship with Anniball.

To this motion Herennius Bassus framed his answere in this sort.* 1.23

For many yeeres alreadie there hath been conti∣nuall amitie betweene the people of Rome and Nola, and neither of both to this day, hath re∣pented [unspec I] thereof. As for the Nolanes themselves, if they had been disposed to turne with the wind, and to chaunge their faith and alleageance, together with their fortune, they would have done it long before this: for now it was too late to start and alter. If they had minded to yeeld themselves unto Anniball, they would never have sent for a garrison of Romanes: but since they were now come to protect and defend them, they had imparted & communicated all their state with them alreadie, and would take such part, as they, so long as they had an houre to live.

This emparle put Anniball cleane besides all hope of gaining Nola by treason. Therfore he beleaguered the town on every side, and invested it round about like a garland, to the end, that in one instant he might give the assault on every part of the wals. When Marcellus saw him under the wals, he set his peo∣ple first in battell aray within the gate, and then with a great noise and tumult he suddainly sallied [unspec K] out. At their first shocke and onset, diverse of the enemies were beaten downe and slaine: but af∣ter that, they ran from all parts to battell, and were come together with equall forces, the fight began to be hote and sharpe, and a memorable conflict it had beene, and few like it, but that it rained and poured downe so fast, and with so many stormes and tempests, that it parted both the battels, & staied the fight. So for that day, having with that small skirmish kindled their cou∣rages, and set their bloud in heat, they retired backe, the Romanes within the cittie, and the Car∣thaginians to their campe. Howbeit, of the Carthaginians there were slaine, upon the first sallie and charge given, not above thirtie, and of the Romans not one man. This tempestuous shower of raine lasted all night long, and continued still, & never gave over untill nine of the clocke be∣fore noone the next day. And therefore, albeit they were sharpe set, and their fingers itched on [unspec L] both sides to be a fighting, yet for that day they kept within their hold and strength. So the third day Anniball sent out certaine companies into the territorie about Nola, for to ••orray and fetch in booties: which, so soone as Marcellus understood, he presently set his men in array, and entred the field, neither was Anniball for his part behind. Now there was a mile distance, or very neere, betweene the cittie and the enemies campe. In this space betweene (for all about Nola is plaine and champion) they encountred and joined battell. The shout that they set up on both sides, re∣claimed and caused to returne unto the fight alreadie begun, the neerest of those cohorts and bands, which were gone aforaging into the countrey. The men of Nola likewise came unto the Romanes, and mended their battell: whom Marcellus commendedfor their forwardnesse, & gave them in charge to abide in the rereward, to helpe as occasion served, and to carrie foorth of the [unspec M] skirmish those that were hurt and wounded, and to forbeare fight in any case, unlesse they had a signall and token given them by him. The fight was doubtfull, for both the Generals gave en∣couragement effectually, and also the souldiours did their best and fought right manfully?

Mar∣cellus was earnest with his men to presse hard and charge still upon their enemies, whome they

[unspec A] had defeited not three daies agoe,* 1.24 who not many daies past were put to flight, and driven from Cumes, and who the yeare before were beaten from Nola, under his conduct, by other soldiors, saying, That they were not all there in the field, but many of them gone raunging abroad into the countrey, for to hale booties, and get prises. As for them that fought, they were such as were decaied with ••oioting and following their delights in Capua, such as with wine-bibbing in everie taverne, whoore hunting in everie Stewes and Brothel••house, all the whole winter, were become enfeebled in bodie, spent, and wasted utterly. As for that lively strength and vigour of theirs, it was cleane gone: those able and lustie bodies were decaied, those courageous hearts abated, wherwith they passed over the Pyrenean mountaines, and the high cliffes of the Alpes. There remained now nothing but the reliques & shaddow of those men to fight, who are [unspec B] scarce able to beare their verie armour, to lift up their armes, and carrie their owne bodies. Adding withall, that Capua was another Cannae unto Anniball: there died his warlike prowes, there, lost he his militare discipline; there was the glorious fame of former daies buried; there the hope of future time for ever, suppressed and stifled. As Marcellus by reproviug these and such like things in his enemies,* 1.25 animated his owne soldiours: so Anniball rebuked his men with more sharpe words and bitter checkes. I know these to bee (quoth hee) the same armesand weapons, the very same ensignes and standerds, which I saw and had at Trebia, at Thrasymenus, and last of all at Cannae. But surely, me thinkes, when I went to Capua, there to winter, I carried with me thither, other manner of souldiours than I have brought againe from thence. Have yee in deed so much a do to maintaine fight, with a Roman Lieutenant, leader of one only legion & corner; [unspec C] whom heretofore two full Consular armies were never able to abide in the field? Shall Mar∣cellus with young and raw souldiours of his owne, seconded onely with the aide of the Nolanes, challenge and bid us battaile the second time? Where is that souldiour of mine, that unhorsed C. Flaminius the Consull, and stracke off his head? What is become of him that at Cannae slew L. Paulus? what? is the edge of your sword dull, and the point blunt? or are your right hands a∣sleepe and benummed? or what strange and wonderfull accident is befallen you? Ye that were w••nt being few in number to vanquish many, are yee now being many in number, hardly able to withstand and abide the violence of a few? Ye spake big, and gave out great brags and proud words, that if any man would lead you, you would winne Rome, that you would. Behold now, a smaller peece of service. Here I would have you prove your strength, and make triall of your va∣lour. [unspec D] Let us see now, winne me Nola, a cittie situate in the champian, on a plain, defended neither with sea nor river. O, out of this so wealthie a cittie, will I be readie either to lead you, laden with rich pillage & spoile, whither soever yee will, or follow you, whersoever yee would have mee. But nothing availed either: his cheerefull words, or his checking rebukes, to encourage and con∣firme their hearts.

For the Carthaginians being forced on every side to recule, (whiles the Ro∣manes grew more and more animated, not onely through the comfortable speeches of their owne captaine•• but also by the Nolanes themselves, who with their lowd shouting in token of their love and affection, enkindled their courages to hote fight) turned their backes, and were driven into their hold. And when the Romans were desirous to assaile the same, Marcellus recon∣ducted them to Nola, with great joy & congratulation even of the Commons there, who before; [unspec E] were more inclined and affected to the Carthaginians. There were of the enemies slaine that day, above one thousand, sixteen hundred were taken prisoners, nineteen militarie ensigns woon, two elephants gotten alive, and foure slaine in the conflict. Of Romanes there were not killed all out one thousand. The morrow after, they spent (upon a truce concluded) in burying the dead that were slaine on both sides. Of the spoyles of the enemies, Marcellus made a great fire, upon a vow pronounced unto Vulcane. On the third day, 1272 horsemen of Numidians and Spani∣ards, one with another (upon some spleene and anger I beleeve, or else for hope of more liberall enterteinment and commodious gaine) sled from Anniball and turned to Marcellus: whose vali∣ant and faithfull service, stood the Romanes in very good stead, often times during that war. And after the warre was ended, the Spaniards in Spaine, and the Numidians in Affricke, in reward of [unspec F] their vertue and prowesse, were endued with faire lands and large possessions. Anniball sene Han∣no backe from Nola to the Brutij, togither with the forces that he came with himselfe went to the wintering harbours of Apulia, and lodged about Arpi.

Quintus Fabius so soone as he heard that Anniball had taken his way into Apulia, conveyed all the corne from Nola and Naples into his campe, which he had pitched above Sueffula: and ha∣ving

well fortified the hold, and left there a sufficient garrison to guard the place for that winter [unspec G] time, removed himselfe neerer to Capua, & there encamped: and so wasted: the Campane ter∣ritorie with fire and sword, that the Campanes little trusting in their owne forces, were constrai∣ned to issue forth of their gates, and fortifie themselves in campe before the cittie, in the open plaine. Six thousand they were in all. Their footemen were weake & not for service: their horse∣men were farre better and more able: so that oftentimes they charged their enemies with their horse, and provoked them to fight. Among many brave men of armes that the Campanes had, one Iubellus surnamed Taurea, a cittizen of Capua, was the worthiest and best horseman of them all, by many degrees: insomuch, as when hee served under the Romanes, Claudius Asellus onely, a citizen of Rome, was able to match him in glorie of good horsmanship, and horse-service. This Taurea when he had ridden all about the troups of his enemies, casting his eye every way, to see [unspec H] if hee could espie Claudius Asellus, enquired at length closely, after silence made, where about hee was, & made this challenge unto him, That seeing hee was wont in words to contend with him for valour and prowesse, hee should now determine the question by the speare point and dint of sword, and either bee dispoiled of his glorious armour, if hee were overcome, or else gaine the same with the victorie. Which defiance being brought into the campe to Asellus his eares, hee made no more to do, but went presently to the Consull, to know whither hee might with his good leave and licence, out of his ranke fight extraordinarily, with his enemie that bad him combat. After leave obtained, hee armed himselfe immediatly, mounted on horsebacke, and rode before the enemies corps de guard, eftsoons calling upon Taurea by name, and bidding him come foorth to encounter whensoever hee durst. Now were the Romans by this time gone [unspec I] forth of the campe in great number to behold this combat: the men of Capua likewise filled not onely the rampiar of their hold, but also the walles of the cittie to see this sight. When as they had made some goodly flourish afore hand with brave words and stout speeches, to set out the action: they set speare in rest, and put spurres to horse, and jousted togither amaine. Afterwards having gotten the libertie of the ground, they dallied one with another, trisling out the time, and making a long peece of worke of it, without giving or taking wound. Then quoth the Campane knight to the Romane, This will bee but a fight of horses, and not of horsemen, unlesse we ride out of the open plaine ground, here into this hollow way, where having no such scope to pricke out at large, we shall soone come to hand gripes, and close togither. The word was not so soone spoken, but Claudius turned his horse head, and rode into the foresaid way. But Taurea a stouter [unspec K] champion in word than deed: Oh, take heed of all things (quoth he) how you ride a gelding in a ditch: Which grew afterwards to a by-word used amongst the countrie people. Claudius after he had rode in and out, up and downe, a long time in the lane, and never met with his enemie, retur∣ned again into the open plain: & rating the cowardise of his enemie, with great joy and gratulati∣on, rode back as conqueror into the campe. Some Annales and Chronicles do record and adde to this combat of horsemen, astraung and wonderfull thing (no doubt) if it bee true, as by the common opinion it is reputed no lesse: namely, that when Taurea fled back into the cittie, Clau∣dius followed hard after him in chase, entred with him at one gate standing open, and rode out cleere at the other unhurt, to the great wonder and astonishment of the enemies. Vpon this, the standing camps were quiet on both sides: & the Cos. removed backward farther off from the citie, [unspec L] that the men of Capua might sow their grounds: neither did he any harme unto their fields, be∣fore the corn was come up & so well grown, that the blade therof yeelded good forage & stouver for the horses; which he gathered & brought into the standing camp and hold of Claudius above Suessula, & there he built winter harbors for to make his abode. And hee gave order to M. Clau∣dius the Viz-consull, to keepe still at Nola a competent garison for defence of the citie; and to dis∣charge the rest of the soldiors, & send them to Rome, that they should neither be comberous to their Allies, nor chargeable to the Commonweale. Tib. Gracchus also while•• hee led his legions from Cumes into Apulia to Luceria, sent M. Valerius the Pretour from thence to Brundussum, with that armie which he had at Luceria, commaunding him to keepe the sea coast of the Salen∣tines countrie, and to provide for all things necessarie against Philip and the Macedonian warre.

[unspec M]

In the end of this summer, wherein these acts were archieved, whereof I have written, there came a packet of letters from P. and Cornel Scipions, importing how great and how fortunate ex∣ploits they had performed in Spaine: but there wanted mony for pay: and apparell and corne to serve both souldiours and marriners. And albeit all these things were away, yet as concerning

[unspec A] money, if the Cittie chamber and common treasure were not stored, they would make some shift to raise it of the Spaniards: but for all the rest, needs it must bee sent from Rome, for other∣wise neither could they keep the army togither, nor hold the province in their allegeance. When the letters were read, there was no man there, but acknowledged that they wrote a truth, and de∣maunded that which was reasonable. But they considered withall, what great armies both on land and at sea they mainteined: and what a mightie Armada they must prepare & set out a new, in case the Macedonian warre went forward. As for Sicilie and Sardinia, which before the wars began, paied tribute, were scarce able to find and keepe the garisons; that say there for the gard of the provinces and that they were to trust upon their owne revenues and tribute for the main∣tenance of the charge they were at. But as the number of them that paid rent and conferred tri∣bute, [unspec B] was greatly diminished by so great overthrowes of the armies, both at the poole Thrasyme∣nus, and also at Cannae so mose few that remained, if they were burdened with many exa••tions and paiments, should be plagued and undone another way, therefore it was concluded, that un∣lesse the Commonweale mainteined not her selfe by her credite and borrowing mony, she were not able to be susteined by her owne wealth and richesse. So it was agreed, That Fulvius the Pre∣tour must needs assemble all the people together, and lay abroad and declare unto them the ne∣cessitie and exigent that the Commonweale was driven unto, and to exhort all them that had enriched themselves and encreased their livings, by renting and taking to ferme the revenues and commodities of the cittie, should now doe good to the Commonweale for a time, by which they were growne to that wealth, and undertake the provision at a price, and furnish the ar∣mie [unspec C] in Spaine, with all necessaries thereto belonging, to bee contented and paied therefore with the first, out of the common chist, when it were stored with money. Thus the Pretor made declaration of these matters in the open assemblie of the people, and with all determined and set downe a certaine day, whereupon hee minded to put foorth the souldiours liveries and appa∣rell, and corne to be provided for the Spanish armie, and all things else requisit for the mariners. When the day was come, there presented themselves unto him three companies of nineteene men, for to take this bargaine. Who made two requests & demaunds, the one, that for that three yeeres next ensuing, there should bee no other Publicanes or farmers of the cittie: the other, that whatsoever they shipped, the Commonweale would make good, against all force of ene∣mie, or violence of tempest. Both being graunted, they tooke upon them the matter, and so the [unspec D] Commonweale was served, by the money of private persons. This was the demeanure, this was the loving affection to their countrey, that went through all degreesof men (as it were) after one sort and manner. And like as they undertooke with great courage to serve the armie, so with sin∣gular fidelitie they performed everything, in such sort, as there was nothing at all wanting, no more than if they had been maintained from a rich treasurie, as in times past. At what time, as this provision came, the towne of * 1.26 Illiturgi was assailed by Asdruball, Mago, and Amil∣••ar the sonne of Bomilcar, because it was revolted unto the Romanes.

Amids these three severall campes of the enemies, the two Scipios passed into the cittie of their allies, that made resistance against and with great losse of men; and brought corne with them, whereof there was great want: and after they had encouraged and exhorted the [unspec E] townesmen, that with the same resolution they would defend the walls, as they had seene the Ro∣mane armie to fight for them and in their quarell: they led forth their power to give an assault upon the greatest camp, whereof Asdruball was the Generall. Thither also repaired the two cap∣taines and two armies of the Carthaginians, when they saw that the whole triall of the matter was there to be determined, and so they issued out of their tents & fought. Threescore thousand enemies were that day in field, and about 16000 Romanes: and yet the victorie went so cleere with the Romanes, that they slew more of their enemies than they were in number themselves, tooke prisoners more than three thousand men, and not many under a thousand horse; and with all woon 60 militarie ensigns wanting one, and killed 5 Elephants in the battell: and to con∣clude, were lords that day of three camps. After that the siege was raised from Illiturgi, the Car∣thaginian [unspec F] armies were led to the assault of the town * 1.27 Incibili, having their companies made up and supplied again out of the province, (as being a nation of al others most desirous and eager of war, so there be hope of pillage or good recompence) & at that time especially full of yong & lu∣stie men. Where there was a second field fought with like fortune of both sides as before. There were slaine above thirteene thousand enemies, and more than 3000 taken prisoners, besides

two and fortie militarie ensignes, and nine Elephants. Then in manner, all the cities of Spain•• [unspec G] revolted to the Romanes. And farre greater exploits were that summer performed in Spaine, than in Italie.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The Oration of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cala••n••s, to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Cap••a.
• * 1.2

  The Oration of Varro, to the Em∣bassadors of Ca∣pua.
• * 1.3

  Gebraltar.
• * 1.4

  The answere of the Oracle.
• * 1.5

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.6

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.7

  21. lib. ster.
• * 1.8

  The defeiture of L. Post••••••ius and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 armie.
• * 1.9

  i. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of ten yeares.
• * 1.10

  Be••ieasir••.
• * 1.11

  Cos••nza.
• * 1.12

  15 of March.
• * 1.13

  Briudi••i.
• * 1.14

  Tarant••.
• * 1.15

  Much about 5000 quarter of London mea∣sure.
• * 1.16

  Monte di Capus.
• * 1.17

  Monte di Somma.
• * 1.18

  Co••ne••••.
• * 1.19

  Corneto.
• * 1.20

  The Oration of the Embassadors of the Hispines and Samnites, unto Anniball.
• * 1.21

  The answere of Anniball to the Embassadours.
• * 1.22

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Hanno to He∣rennius and He∣r••ts Nolanes.
• * 1.23

  The ans••ere of Herennius to Hanno.
• * 1.24

  The speech of Marcellus to his souldiers.
• * 1.25

  The words of Anniball to his souldiors.
• * 1.26

  Aldea el rio, or Anduiar el rio.
• * 1.27

  Chelua: