THE HISTORY OF TWO THE MOST NOBLE CAPTAINS OF the world, Hannibal and Scipio, of their divers battles and victories, exceeding profitable to read, gathered and translated into English, out of Titus Livius, and other authors, by antony Cope esquire. ❧  
ANNO. M. D. XLIIII.   

THO. Bertheleton this history.  

WHO so ever desireth for to read  
Martial prowess, feats of chivalry,  
That may him profit at time of need,  
Let him in hand take this history,  
That showeth the sleights and policy,  
The wily trains of witty Hannibal,  
The crasty deceits, full oft whereby  
He gave his puissant enemies a fall.   

¶ Of worthy stomach, and courage valiant,  
Of noble heart, and mannely enterprise,  
Of ientlenesse, of mind sure and constant,  
Of governance prudent, ware, and wise,  
Shall find according unto his device  
This prince Scipio, this mighty Roman,  
Which all fon pleasure ever did despise,  
In Continence a lord and sovereign.   

¶ Lo thus may men plainly here behold,  
That wily wit, power, guile, nor policy,  
Could Hannibal ever still uphold,  
But that by Scipio's worthy chivalry,  
His manhood, virtue, and deeds knightly  
He was subdued, there is no more to say,  
And yet to speak, as truth will verify,  
There was never sound a better captain.    

❧ TO THE MOST MIGHTY AND VICTORIOUS PRINCE, AND HIS most redoubted sovereign lord, Henry the viii by the grace of god king of England, France, and Ireland, defender of the faith, and of the church o● England and also of Ireland in earth the supreme head: his right humble subject and servant Antony Lope, prayeth and wisheth all honour and perfect felicites.  
THat all human acts ought to be measured by time, most excellent prince, and my most redoubted sovereign lord, we are sufficiently taught by nature, by reason, by learning, and by experience. The first is declared by the ordinate course of the heavens, and the stars, aswell fixed, as also the planets movable, in the same heavens placed, with their sundry dispositions: by whose divers operations, the earth bringeth forth her fruits of all kinds in due season, which first grow to a ripeness, and than followeth the decay of the same. So that all things vary according to the time. Now pleasant summer, than withered winter. Now plenty full abundance of things, an other time barren scarcity. etc. Reason also affirmeth the same: in so much that wise philosophiers put, that the generation of one thing is the corruption of an other: and that nothing may long endure in one state, but either increaseth, or is empeired. Of learning we have authorities manifold. among others Solomon saith, that all things have time. There is (saith he) time of peace, and time of war: time to be merry, and time to be sad. By experience also it is manifest, that who so doth not take time in time, and according thereto temper dispose and convey all his proceedings, shall no more bring them to effect, with prosperous success, than the song shallbe allowed, whereof the syngers keep not their true time, but some do run away therewith, making overmuch haste, while some other drag, coming slowly after. The mutability of time is so variable, it passeth away so swiftly, and at length 〈◊〉 such violence, that old poets willing to descrive ti●e lively, according to the very property thereof, do set it forth in the figure of a man, having wings, wherewith to fly, and having also a great scythe in his hands, to mow or cut down all things in their appointed seasons. And as it devoureth and consumeth all things by long process: even so it manifesteth all things, be they never so hidden and secret. Wherefore VERITY is called the daughter of time, He hath also a sister called OCCASION, whom the said sage poets (under whose words, as under a vail are hidden many deep mysteries) willing to descrive, do feign to have wings on her feet, to declare thereby her swift passing away. And also they feign her to have all her hear growing and hanging long down on the forpart of her head, the hinder part being smooth bare and ●alde: signifying thereby, that as she cometh toward a man, he may take sure hold of her, by her long hears. But in case he miss to take than his hold, suffering her to pass by him: than is there no hold to be taken of her behind, but that she runneth away without recovery. There is also ivigned unto her a companion called REPENTANCE, which is nothing so light of foot as is the other, whom Occasion after her escape from a man, leaveth behind her, to keep him company. Whereby is meant, that if occasion be not taken, when she offereth herself to any man: the party that refuseth her offer, shall after not cease, during his life, to forthink his folly, in suffering her departure. Wherefore since it is apparent, that the obeying to time is so necessary, when I behold the manifold injuries, done to your majesty, and to your subjects of this your realm, by your unnatural and unkind enemies on sundry parties, diverse & many ways, which ye have long suffered, and nevertheless daily they are renewed: it is manifest and evident, that your highness is driven to gait by the sword that, which by force is detained from you, and with power to revenge wrongs wrought of malice and untruth, unless ye should be thought, not to regard the honour due to the imperial majesty of so high a prince, where Solomon in his book entitled Ecclesiastes, upon consideration (as I suppose) of such like matter as this, saith: There is time to love, and time to hate, time of peace, and time of war: which sentence the said wise man, endued by god with sapience▪ would never have left unto us, if war had not in some case been both lawful and expedient. Wherefore well pondering the time of war to be now in hand, as a thing so much needful for many considerations, I (for my poor part) thought, that I should do, not only to your highness acceptable service, but also to all noble men, and ientilemen of the realm great pleasure and commodity, if gathering together out of Titus Livius, and other authors, the lives, the policies, and the martial acts of two the most worthy captains, of the two most renowned empires of the world, that is to say, of Hannibal of Carthage, and Scipio of Rome, I would bring the same into our english tongue: whereby, beside the pleasant bestowing of time, in the reading thereof, men also may learn both to do displeasure to their enemies, and to avoid the crafty and dangerous baits, which shall be laid for them. The one of these captains, after many countries of Spain brought under subjection, to seek honour, and to exercise himself, with his men, in feats of war, passed the terrible mountains to enter into Italy, through many perilous straits and unknown passages, there vexing and spoiling the country with continual war, by the space of xvi. years. During which time he had many noble victories slaying many Roman legions with their valiant capytaines. The other, that is to weet, Scipio the Roman consul, being a man of no less courage than his enemy, leaving him with his power in Italy, sailed over into Africa: where vanquyshing many friends of the Carthaginenses, at the last he brought Carthage to such extremity, that the princes thereof were driven (for their only refuge) to call Hannibal home again to secure them: where in battle sore fought, Scipio overcame Hannibal and all his power, put him to flight, & made the empire of Carthage to be under tribute to Rome. The one of these captains was crafty, politic, painful, and hardy: and by subtle trains wrought his enemies much dispel sure: The other was wise, chaste, liberal, and valiant: and by his virtuous courage, mixed with temperance, raisedup the banner of fame & honour of Rome, which before was brought low, and almost to utter desolation. And as these notable princes, with many other men of noble hearts, have heretofore travailed, to seek honourable renown: even so, many learned men, willing to advance them to their desires, have in writing set forth their noble acts, to their immortal fame, and to the comfort of all that shall here or read the same. yea the peinters have not forgotten nor omitted on their parts, to set forth before men's eyes, their noble acts, thereby to stir and to enkindle the hearts and minds of the beholders. For who is he, that doth not much rejoice, in beholding Hercules painted on a wall, clothed in a lions skin, by his mighty hand spoiled, and drawing after him Cerberus that hell hound, with three hideous heads, whom he had brought from the dominion of Pluto? Who doth not rejoice to hear the conquest of the golden fleece, by jason in the Isle of Colchos? Thus it appeareth, that who so done virtuously embrace honourable travail, deserve to have immortal fame. Among which most victorious conquerors, although your most excellent majesty may without all controversy or doubt most worthily challenge and take the chief place, yet would not I, before your majesties own face, offer myself to be a setter out thereof, oncles the express verity of your grace's proceedings did so manifestly publish and declare the same, that I may not by my so doing possibly incur any manner suspicion of flattery or adulation, as by comparing the noble deeds of the forenamed great princes, unto your most worthy acts, shall appear manifest. Hannibal, by the help of the frenchmen, passed the mountains, and after in Italy fought three or four notable battles, to the great ruin of the Romans: but they were achieved rather by crafty sleights and policies, than by strength. In them also he had the assured aid of the french men. The city of Tarent he wan by treason. Capua, and many other cities, willingly yielded unto him, whose assistance after, was much his advancement. On the other part, Scipio arriving in Africa, found there king Massanissa his old friend, by whose help, valiantness, and conduit, he prevailed against the Carthaginenses, and subdued king Sypbax. These things seemed than to men so notable, that among others, my chief author Titus Livius, to advance the renown of them, wrote thereof a noble and goodly history. But who so beholdeth the conduit of your graces wars, in Spain, France, Britain, & Scotland, and in every of these more than once or twice achieved without the aid of any foreign prince, the dangerous and strong cities and castles scaled, the power of France in one day overthrown: And about the same time a like victory of Scots invading this realm, with their king slayné in plain field: shall find the triumph thereof much more worthy of glory, than any that ever Livius wrote upon. For it is not unknown, that things now be much harder to be achieved, than they were in those days: the artillery more perilous, the armour more sure, and the castles more strong: In so much that the winning of Ti●wyn or Morlace, is much more to be esteemed, than the winning of Capua or Carthage. I will omit to rehearse, that the emperor Maximilian, hearing the fame of your highness power and excellence, desired to be of your majesties band, and under your banner in the field against the frenchmen. I will also leave to rehearse the wise and worthy conquest of the realm of Ireland, whereof at this present your majesty weareth the Diadem. Neither will I tarry to declare the sundry and most lucky victories, that your highness hath of late had against the promiss breakers the double dealing Scots. Furthermore, partly for brevity, and partly for that the thing being so lately done, neither the bruit nor the memory thereof can not but be so fresh, that it were much superfluous here now to recite the same, I have thought best wholly to omit the long recital of your late most noble, politic, and mighty conquest of Bollayne, never heretofore by any prince subdued, no scarcely by any approached unto, but left as a thing invincible, and therefore called the maiden town, the history whereof requireth the length of a long volume, if it shall be fully chronicled. But since of all others that ever were, Hercules is accounted most worthy the crown of honourable praise, as the chief daunter of monsters: I will now with his conquests compare your most famous subduing of the Roman monster Hydra, whose heads were so many, and the lest of them so pestilent, that it is to be thought, he could never (without the great assistance of the divine power) have been subdued. Those his heads, by the most circumspect wisdom and providence of your highness, be almost clean cut of, and mortified, the venomons sting of ignorance plucked away, and his power suppressed: so that the walls of his den of Rome tremble, beholding your crystal shield of prudence: which conquest I may well call so much more worthy of renown, than those of Hercules, by how much the soul of man is to be esteemed above the body, or any earthly goods. Hercules only delivered countries from the bodily vexation of monsters and tyrants: your majesty doth ease your subjects both in body and goods, but chief in their souls, by the true knowledge of god and his most holy word. So that in my heart I wish Livius to be on live again, not doubting, but he that took such pain to descrive the acts of your inferiors, Hannibal and Scipio, would much more now travail, to blow forth your mighty magnificence and virtuous enterprises with the loud trumpette of immortal fame and memory. Furthermore the acts of Hercules be most set forth by poets, who (as it is thought) have feigned many things more than the truth was: but of your highness acts, that ●r our english Hercules, no man doth or can doubt, they are so well known, even of your enemies to their peines. Wherefore I trust, when time shall come, god will not fail to provide an excellent chronicler, to set forth the most glorious acts of your royal majesty, that are his very true champion: rewarding your worldly conquests here, with perpetual renown and glory, and after this life (which almighty god grant for our benefit, to be very long) remunerating your graces godly mind, intent, and travails in his causes, with the incorruptible crown of immortality and felicity eternal both of soul and body.   

THE TABLE.  
THe description of Hannibal, & at his first exercise in war. ca i. ¶ Of Annibals' first wars and victory. Cap. two. ¶ Hannibal be●●●geth the Saguntines, and how he was there eight wounded. Cap. iii. ¶ The coming of the roman ambassadors to Hannibal and Carthage, and what answer they had of him and them. Cap. iiii. ¶ How Sagunt was cruelly conquered. Cap. v. ¶ How the Roman ambassadors sent to Carthage, and from this into Spain, sped. Cap. vi. ¶ How Hannibal renewing the war conducted his army into France, to pass the mountains. Cap. seven. ¶ How Hannibal passed the river of Rhodanus, put the frenchmen to Night, refused to fight with the consul of Rome, and with what words he couraged his soldiers to pass the mountains. Ca viii. ¶ How and with what labour, pain, & exceeding great desigier, Annibal & his army passed over the high mountains Alps into Italy. cap. ix. ¶ How both the armies of Rome & Carthage approached, & the oration that P. C. Scipio the consul made to encourage his men to fight. ca x. ¶ With what examples and words Hannibal exhorted his soldiers to fight valiantly. Cap. xi. ¶ How Scipio and Hannibal met by chance, and fought together and how the consul was hurt, and Hannibal victor. Cap. xii. ¶ How Hannibal fought with Sempronius the consul, and by what means he put the romans to f●yght. Cap. xiii. ¶ Hannibal intending to take a certain called by ●●eithe, was encountered by the consul, wounded, and put to the worse, and after a great slaughter of the people he won 〈◊〉. And how Cn. Scipio in Spain overthrew Hanno in battle. Cap. xiiii. ¶ How Hannibal passed the dangerous feints near to the river of Arnus, to the great loss of his men and cattle, where the fenny air caused him to lose one of his e●es. And of the haste that Flamminius the Consul maketh to give him battle. Cap. xv. ¶ Of the battle of Trasymenus, with the death of the Consulie Flamminius, and many other romans. Cap. xvi. ¶ How Hannibal by a ●eafty deceit escaped the straits of Formiana, wherein he was enclosed by Q. Fabius Maximus. Cap. xvii. ¶ 〈◊〉 Scipio fighteth with hasdrubal and Himilco, on the sea, upon the costs of Spain, driveth them to land, taketh and distroi●th. xxv. ships, with a great numbered of the Carthaginenses. Ca xviii ¶ How 〈…〉 Spaniard, by 〈…〉 the pledges of Span●●● the Carthaginenses, and delivered them to the Romans. Ca nineteen. ¶ Fabius' being at Rome in displeasure, Minutius master of the horsemen fighteth with Hannibal, putteth him to the w●●s, and therefore is made half ruler of the host with Fabius, he fighteth with him times, and is put to flight, and received by Fabius. Cap. xx. ¶ Of Lucius 〈◊〉 Paulus, and C. Tetentius Vatto consuls, and the oration of Q. Fabius Maximus to Paulus, before his departing from Rome toward his host. Capit. xxi. ¶ Of the perilous battle of 〈◊〉, and the victory that Hannibal had there of the Romans. Cap. xxii. ¶ How Hannibal ordered his business after the battle, and how young Scipio used himself for the saving of the ●●en wealth. ca xxiii. ¶ The oration of the captive prisoners made to the senate for their redemption. Cap. xxiiii. ¶ The sore answer of T. Manlius Torquatus to the captives oration, wherein he dissuaded their redemption. Cap. xxv. ¶ How Pacwius by craft became chief ruler of Capua, and of the yielding of that city to Hannibal. Cap. xxvi. ¶ The news that Mago brought to Carthage of Annibals' victories in Italy, and the oration of Hanno a senator of Carthage made unto the same. Cap. xxvii. ¶ Of the battle between Marcellus and Hannibal before the city of Nola, and of Hannibal's wyntring in Capua, in delicate pleasures, whereby he withdrew the hearts and courages of his men from all warrely●e fashion. Cap. xxviii. ¶ Of the long siege and winning of Cassilinum, with the death and destruction of the consul Posthumius and his host in the wood of Lytana by the craft of the frenchmen. Cap. xxix. ¶ Of the victory of the Scipious in Spain. Cap. thirty. ¶ The oration of the Samnites and the Harpines' to Hannibal, desiring his help agayste the Romans with the order of Marcellus and Hannibal about Nola. Cap. xxxi. ¶ The exhortation of Hannibal to his soldiers, the battle between him and Marcellus, & the victories of the Scipios in spain. ca xxxii. ¶ The oration of Quintus Fabius Maximus, touching the election of the consuls in that dangerous season. Cap. xxxiii. ¶ The battle between Hanno and Gracchus, with the reward and also the punishment awarded by Gracchus to certain bondmen of his host. Cap. xxxiiii. ¶ The cities of Sagunt in spain, and Arpos in Italy at won by the Romans, king Syphax is become friend to the romans, and is overcome in battle by Massa●●ssa. Cap. xxxv. ¶ Hannibal through the treason of Nico and Philo●●enes, winneth the city of Tarent. Cap. xxxvi. ¶ Fuluius Flaccus the Roman consul, winneth the camp of Hanno, sleeth and taketh a great numbered of men with a rich pray. Mago sleeth Titus Gracchus, and many Romans, through the treason of Flavius a Luca●. Cap. xxxvii. ¶ Centeniu● Penula and C●●ius Fuluius with their two armies be discomfited and slain by Hannibal in several battles. Ca xxxviii. ¶ The city of Capu● is besieged by the two consuls, Hannibal cometh to the succour of the citizens, giveth the consul's battle, from the● goeth to Rome ward with his holste, to the intent thereby to dr●●● the consuls from the siege of Capu. Cap. xxxix. ¶ The oration of Virius Vixu●● concerning the yielding of Capua, the Romans receive the town, slay the senators, and convert the ground thereof to the profit of the city of Rome. Cap. xl. ¶ Marcellus winneth the city of Syracuse in Sicilia, P. Scipio and Cu●ius Scipio are slain in Spain with a great number of Romans. Cap. xli. ¶ L. Martius is chosen captain of the Roman army, he maketh an oration to his soldiers, and in one night and a day vanquisheth two hosts of Carthaginenses, winneth their camps, and a great pray. Capit. xlii. ¶ How Asdrubal being enclosed in the straits beside Mentissa, escaped the danger thereof by mocking his enemies: and of the choosing of young P. Cor. Scipio to be captain in spain. Capi. xliii. ¶ The oration of Scipio to his soldiers in Spain, after his coming thither. Cap. xliiii. ¶ The city of new Carthage in Spain is won by the Romans, with a great pray of gold silver & all other necessaries for the wa●●e, with the pledges of the noble men and cities of Spain. Cap. xlv. ¶ Of the gentleness of Scipio in restoring a fair young virgin undefiled to Luceius, unto whom she was ●●aunced. Cap. xlvi. ¶ Hannibal sleeth Cn. Fuluius, with. xiii. M. Romans, beside Herdonea: Marcellus the consul chaseth Hannibal through Apulia, making many skirmishes with him. Cap. xlvii. ¶ Marcellus giveth battle to Hannibal, in which his men be put to flight, whereupon he maketh them a sharp oration, he reneweth the batta●●e on the morrow, putteth Hannibal and his host to flight, with loss of many of his men. Cap. xlviii. ¶ How Q. Fabius Maximus recovered from Hannibal the city of Tarent. Cap. xlix. ¶ Scipio fighteth with Asdrubal beside Betula, driveth him from his hill, sleeth. viii. M. of 〈◊〉 host, taketh. xii. M. prisoners, with Massus nephew to Massanissa, and a great pray in the camp. cap. l. ¶ Marcellus the consul is slain by an imbushment laid by Hannibal, C●●spinus the other consul, and Marcellus son be sore hurt. ca li. ¶ Hannibal craftily sendeth letters to Salapia, sealed with Marcellus sy●net, Asdrubal passeth the mountains with his army, to meet his brother Hannibal. capi. lii. ¶ Of the great battle between Asdrubal and the consuls, in which Asdrubal was slain with. lvi. M. men, beside many that we●e taken, with a great spoil. Cap. liv. ¶ Scipio in divers battles discomfiteth the Carthaginenses, taketh Hanno on live, driveth Asdrubal and Mago, with all their power, clean out of Spain. cap. liv. ¶ M. Livius. and C. 〈◊〉 the consu●●es, enter the city of Rome in triumph. A praise of Annibals governing his army. Cap●. lv. ¶ Scipio and Asdrubal arrive both in one day in Africa, and be l●dged both together in the ●alays of 〈◊〉 Syphax. cap. lvi. ¶ Massanissa speaketh secretly with Scipio, & entereth in league with the Romans: Mago saileth into Italy to join with Hannibal. ca lvii. ¶ Scipio cometh to Rome, and is create one of the consuls, he desireth to have licence, to sail into Africa with an army. cap. lviii. ¶ The oration of Fabius, dissuading Scipio from sailing into Africa, and willing him to defend Italy against Hannibal. cap. lix. ¶ The oration of Scipio, wherein he answereth to Fabius. cap. lx. ¶ The complaint of the Locrenses to the sivatours of the cruel governance of Q. Pl●●●nius. cap. lxi. ¶ King Sypha● maneth Asdruball●● daughter, he writeth to Scipio, willing him not to war in Africa: Scipio arriveth in Africa, to whom cometh Massanissa. cap. lxii. ¶ Scipio in the night turneth his enemy's 〈◊〉, pu●●teth Syphax and hasdrubal to flight, with great loss of their men. cap. lxiii. ¶ Syphax 〈◊〉 the battle, where he is taken prisoner. Massasnissa taketh the city of Cirtha, & marrieth king Syphax wife. cap. lxiiii. ¶ Syphax is brought to Scipio, Massanissa send the to Sophonisba poison, which she without fear dry●keth. capi. lxv. ¶ Lelius with king Syphax and other prisoners cometh to Rome: Massanissa is made king of Num●dia. cap. lxvi. ¶ Mago is discomfited, and 〈◊〉, of which wound he dieth. Hannibal being commanded of the sen●ce to have Ita●y, sayieth toward Carthage, making great do●● for his departing. cap. lxvii. ¶ Hannibal arriveth in Africa, de●i●●th to speak with Scipio, who granteth him, and they meet together at a place appointed. cap. lxviii. ¶ The witty oration that Hannibal made to Scipio, before the battle between them. cap. lxix. The answer of Scipio to Annibals' oration, with the battle had between them, wherein Hannibal was vanquished & put to f●●ght. ca lxx. The conditions of peace 〈◊〉 to the Carthaginenses by Scipio, and the ratifying of the same by the 〈◊〉. ca lxxi. Scipio retour●eth to Rome with great triumph and joy of all the people. cap. lxxii. Hannibal f●●●th to 〈◊〉 king of Si●ia, 〈◊〉 moveth war●● to the Romans L. Cor. Scipio 〈◊〉 ●nto Asia, and vanquisheth him, granteth him peace upon conditions, and returneth to Rome. ca lxxiii. Hannibal flieth to 〈◊〉, the 〈…〉 how he ●●ded his life. capi. lxxiiii.  
Thus endeth the Table.   

THE DESCRIPTION OF HANNIBAL, and of his first exercise in war. Cap. 1.  
AFTER MANY GREAT AND perilous battles fought between the Romans and the Carthaginenses, at the last a peace was taken for certain years: during which time Amilcar than captain of the army of Carthage, warred five years continually in Africa, with the cities and countries adjoining to Carthage. And from thence he passed the sea with his army into spain: where he abode ix years, in which time he meruaylonsely increased and enlarged the dominion of Carthage. This Amilcar was father to Hannibal, which at his sailing into Spain, was but ix years of age: but yet his heart and courage was such, that he never ceased, till he had with fair and pleasant words obtained licence of his father, to go with him into Spain. And at his departing on a solemn day when his father did sacrifice in the Temple, according to the use and ceremony than used, young Hannibal being there present, laying his hands on the holy altar of the Temple, swore and avowed, that from thenceforth he would become a deadly enemy to the romans, and that he would utter the same his malice on them as soon as he were able. This oath and vow pleased well his father Amilcar. For his intent was shortly after to move the Carthaginenses to war with the Romans, but he died soon after: whose death, with the tender age of his son Hannibal stayed that enterprise, and caused the peace to endure between them viii years longer. During which time one Asdrubal, that married the daughter of Amilcar, governed the army, a man of great wisdom and policy. For he by his gentle entertaining of princes, and friendly handling of his neighbours, more than by battle, brought many cities under the obedience of Carthage. Whose fashion, in getting of friends, when the Romans perceived, they sent unto him: and renewing their old amity, entered into a new league, for the more sure and stable conservation whereof, they determined to set meats and bounds of both their empires. Wherefore they agreed, that the river of Iberus 〈◊〉 departed their two seig●lories. Further, that the Saguntines (a people that dwelled between both their dominions, and were then in amity and league with the Romans) should continue in peace and be at liberty, not troubled nor oppressed by war of neither party. This peace being concluded, hasdrubal, that heartily loved Hannibal, sent his letters, and for his sake, caused the counsel of Carthage to be moved, to licence Hannibal, being than a fresh young man, to exercise himself in war to the intent, when he were of lawful age, he might obtain, both the rule and richesse, that were his fathers. Whereunto the most part of the Senators agreed. Whereupon Hannibal was incontinent sent into Spain, to be captain there under Asdrubal. At his first coming he gate the favour of all the army, and so resembled his father in all points, that the old soldiers supposed Amilcar that was dead, to be restored again to them alive. And in short space he brought to pass, that his father was not to be compared unto him, in winning the hearts of people. He excelled so in wisdom, policy, and feats of war, that when the captain would have any weighty matter enterprised, he would to him above all other commit the charge thereof. He so ordered himself, both in obeying his capitain, and ruling his soldiers, that it was hard to know, whether he was better beloved of his capitain or of his host. He was of an high courage in icoparding on any peril, and of no less counsel in avoiding the same. His body and mind could with no labour be wearied or overcome: he could as well sustain heat as cold: of meats and dryakes he used none excess, but that would suffice nature: he prescribed no time to rest or sleep by night nor by day. And when he might from business conveniently rest, he desired neither soft beds, nor quiet sleeps, but being covered with a short cloak or soldiers garment, he would repose him upon the hard earth. He was not curious in garments: In pleasant horses and sure armour was always his delight. Among all the army on horse back and on foot he was found the best, he would be ever the first and the last in battle: Which his noble virtues lacked not divers vices to accompany them. For instead of mercy and pity, he used extreme cruelty, mixed with unfaithfulness, he regarded not the observing of his oath, which was to his great dishonour.   

¶ Of Hannibal's first wars and victory. Cap. two.  
WHEN THIS YOUNG capitain had thus exercised himself under Asdrubal the space of iii years, it chanced that one of that country (whose master Asdrubal before had slain) suddenly ran on him, and slew him. Whereupon being taken he neither changed countenance nor feared any punishment that should come to him therefore: but with smiling countenance received his death. Than the soldiers of the army after the loss of Asdrubal immediately by one consent chose Hannibal to be their governor. And he appointing to war against the romans, and Italy to be his province, thought he would not long stay or tract the time in overmuch deliberating thereon: lest thereby it might chance unto him, as it did unto his father & Hasdrubal, to be oppressed by some other mischance, intended to move war to the Saguntines before rehearsed. And to colour his intent, he first led his army into the costs of Olcades, a people of Spain beyond the river of Iberus, neighbour to the Saguntines, to th'end it should seem, that he of purpose or by any pretence of war did not seek to invade the Saguntines, but winning the countries adjoining together, he should also take Sagunt with him as it lay in his way in order with the other. Among these he wan the city called Carteia that was very rich, which city being subdued, the small towns adjacent willingly submitted themselves to be under tribute. This done he for the winter time withdrew his army to a city in Spain called new Carthage. And with distributing largely to his soldiers the pray before gotten, and welpaying of every man's wages that was behind, he won the hearts of all the host. So that they wholly agreed the next summer following to war upon the Vacceis. Which wars brought to pass and ended, as they returned, not far from the river of Tagus, the banished people of the countries aforesaid, assembled together, and raised the carpetans, by whose help they were to the numbered of a hundred thousand, and trusting to their great multitude, came newly upon the Carthaginenses. Hannibal perceiving that great power coming upon him, abstained from battle, and privily in the night conveyed his 〈◊〉 over a ford, and from thence withdrew his people a good space of: so that his enemies might have place to come over the river. Than set be xl. elephants along the river side, that they might be ready to oppress them at the entering of the water. Also he commanded his horsemen, that as soon as the footmen were entered the water, they should fiercely assail them. The carpetans with the Vacceis and Carteians thinking their enemies for fear to be fled from them, and intending to pursue them, without any foresight or order, with all speed, making great clamour, every man rashly took his next way through the water. Hannibal's horsemen perceiving that they were entered the ford, violently ran on them, and with little pain overthrew a great number of their footmen in the water, which thing was easy to do, for a footman in the strength of the stream could in no wise sustain the force of a horseman, only the rush of the horse, though the rider be unarmed, is able to overthrow any footman: so feeble is the stay of his foot in the water. Thus some were drowned, and some other that passed over the river, were oppressed with the elephants, so that in short space they were all utterly discomfited and overcome. For before that those, which last entered the river (though they escaped the danger of the horsemen) could recoil back again tolande, and assemble together, and set themself in array, Annibal with a fresh band of men entered the water, and so quickly followed and chased them, that few escaped. Whereupon shortly after he conquered all the carpetans, and broughtthem under subjection of Carthage. And thanall the borderers beyond the water Iberus, holly became tributaries to Carthage, saving only the Saguntmes, with whom as thanthey had not meddled, but divers quarrels were picked by their neighbours, to get some occasion to war ageyuste them. And that perceived well the Sagantines. Wherefore to prevent the matter, they sent messengers to Rome, to require succours in the wars that they undoubtedly looked for.   

¶ Hannibal beslegeth the Saguntines, and how he was there soorewounded. Cap. iii.  
THe same year that the Ambassadors were sent to Rome, Publius Cornelius Scipio, & Titus Sempronius Longus were consuls, and when this matter was weighed in the senate house with many other, concerning the common wealth, Publius Valerius Flaccus, and Quintus Fabius Pamphilus, were chosen ambassadors to go to Hannibal, with gentle persuasions to withdraw him from wars with the Saguntines their friends: which if they could not do, that than they should go to Catthage to hasdrubal the captain, charging him upon pain of the truce breaking, to cease and take up the wars.  
¶ Whiles the Romans prepared their legacies, and ordered their affairs, Hannibal forslowing no time convenient to his business, with his army spoiling and wasting the country, approached and fiercely assailed the city of Sagunt on three parts. This city was named the richest that was beyond the river of Iberus: It stood not passing a mile from the sea: and was in short space so mightily increased by reason of the commodities of the water, the fruits of the land, and multitude of people, that they excelled all the cities and countries about them both in number and richesse. When Hannibal had circumspectly viewed the walls, he found a corner, from the which did extend a fair plain valley, unto the which corner he laid his siege, raising up certain engines of defence, for the safeguard of his people, till they might approach the walls, and carrying other ingyns to give assault and to beat down the walls. But because the fair plain without that corner, made that side to be in most jeopardy: the citizens therefore had builded the walls on that part higher than the other sides. There was also builded at that coruer a mighty high tower, the strength whereof letted Hannibal to lay his siege to the town as he would have done: Hot withstanding he by reason of his engines, gave so sharp assault, that the citizens being upon the walls were greatly abashed, who at the same assault, not only defended their walls manfully, but also courageously issued out of the town and assailed their enemies, and breaking down their muniments and fortifications, entered the town again well near to as great loss of their enemies as of their own people. Which thing when Hannibal perceived, he suddenly with out advisement approached to the walls, and was stricken with a barbed javelin in the thigh, so that sore wounded he fell to the ground. When his people saw him fall, there was such fear and clamour among them, that they clean gave over the assault, so that they suffered the town to be in rest till their captain was healed. During which time of rest from battle, the citizens were not unoccupied. For they fortified themself the more strongly, for that they perceived the assaults to come should be more fierce and perilous. When Hannibal was cured of his wound, the siege and war became more deadly and terrible than before. The carthaginians daily increased, they were to the number of Cl. M. who with their engines bet down the walls of Sagunt to the ground in divers parts: so that they seemed sundry times to have won the city: but they within, where the walls lacked, with strength of men defended it. And thus sometime hope, and sometime despair enforced both parts to do their uttermost.   

¶ The coming of the Roman ambassadors to Hannibal and Carthage, and what answer they had of him and them. Capit. iiii.  
IN the mean season of this long continued war, very doubtful and variable on both parts, word came to Hannibal, that the Roman Legates were come: Unto whom he sent a messenger, to show them, that there was jeopardy in passing through so perilous and doubtful battles of strange and wild nations: And himself was so intricate with business, that he could not attend to speak with them, or to here their legacy. The ambassadors hearing this answer departed towards Carthage, as they were commanded. Which thing Hannibal perceiving, sent letters to the senate and princes of Carthage, that were friends, willing them so to induce the people, that they should in no wise show favour to the Romans. So that it came to pass, that as they could not be received of Hannibal, even so their embassage was void at Carthage. For when Hanno, a man of great authority, had opened in the senate, the peril and jeopardy of the truce breaking, and the vengeance which might follow upon the same: and persuaded, that it should be necessary, that Hannibal, should be yielded to the Romans, for amends of the truce breaking: His oration being finished, the hole senate, more inclining to the unjust enterprise of Hannibal than to any reasonable persuasion to the contrary, esteemed him to have spoken more unfrendly than the legates of Rome. Whereupon they answered the ambassadors, that Hannibal had done nothing but justly, and that the romans did wrong in taking part with the Saguntynes against them of Carthage, being their old friends. And thus whiles the Romans sent their ambassadors to and fro, Hannibal ceased not, but when his weary soldiers relieved themselves of their peines and travail, to encourage his men against his enemies, sometime with hope of victory, sometime with hope of the rich prey: so that they were in such wise encouraged and stired, that they thought nothing able to resist them. And contrariwise the Saguntines were no less careful and diligent to repair their broken walls, and to provide things to make resistance. Hannibal, who never cess, but being still occupied with invention of subtlety and craft, commanded a high tower of timber so to be made, that it might be removed to every part of the walls at his pleasure. Which when it was finished, he furnished with crossbows and other ordinance, wherewith he bet the defenders from the walls. Than incontinent he sent .v. C. Affricanes, with pike●xes and instruments to undermine and break down the walls, which was very easy to bring to pass with such tools. The walls were of the old rude making, not laid with lime and sand, but with clay and black mortar. Wherefore they had soon overthrown a great part of the walls, at which breach the Carthaginenses entered, and came to a high place of the city, which they garnished with all kinds of ordinances, and made a wall about the same, making it as a castle or fortress for them within the city. Not withstanding the Saguntines, with as great shift as might be, made countermures in the town, and defended themself: and saved those parts that were not gotten as it might be. But in short space they were so beaten, that they wist not where to defend. Thus the Saguntines defending the inward parts of their town, lost daily more and more of their city. victuals also failed them sore, by reason of the long siege. Again, the expectation of their succours was in vain, because the Romans, their only hope, were so far of. Not withstanding they were alyttell comforted, by reason that Annibal was so suddenly sent for to go against the Oretanes and carpetans, which than were raised again, and began to rebel, but their war in the mean time seemed nothing the less, by reason of one maharbal, Himilcos' son, who kept the siege so straightly, that it seemed the captain was not absent.  
¶ When Hannibal was returned from the carpetans and Oretanes war, the battle began more strongly than before. During which time, two soldiers, one named Alcon a Saguntine, and the other called Alorcus a Spaniard, having some hope of peace, determined to move Hannibal to the same. Alcon the Saguntine was brought before Annibal, who showed unto him, what they should do, if they intended to have peace. Which conditions of peace seemed unto Alcon very unreasonable. Wherefore thinking that the Saguntines would in no case agree unto the same: he remained there still, and would not return again to his city, affirming, that he were worthy to die, that under such covenants would treat of peace When Alcon had denied, that the Saguntines would receive any suchetruce, Alorcus aforesaid, being a soldier of Annibals, and an old friend to the Saguntines, supposing that their minds might be persuaded to receive the conditions of peace, seeing their walls so weak, and their town so easy to be won, promised to declare unto them the contents of the truce. He delivering his weapon to the captains of their enemies, was brought to the Praetor Saguntine: and so into the senate, where, when the multitude of the commons was a little withdrawn, thus he began his oration.  
¶ If your citezyn and messenger Alcon, that came to Hannibal to require peace, had likewise brought from him unto you the conditions of the same, my coming now had been in vain. Which thing if he had done, I should neither as Annibals orator, nor as a fugitive, have come unto you at this time. But seeing that he, either through his own default, or else by yours, tarrieth with your enemies (lest you should be ignorant, that there are certain conditions offered both of peace and safeguard) I for the old friendship and hospitality that hath been between us am come to you: and first I would ye should persuade yourselves, that for your wealth and none other cause, I speak to you those words, which I will declare, and this you may well perceive. For as long as you were able with your own power, to make resistance, or trusted to have succour from the romans, I never made mention to you of peace. Now seeing there is no hope of succour from the Romans, and your own strength and walls do fail you, being unable any longer to resist: I bring to you peace more necessary than righteous or just. Of the which peace there is yet some hope, if, as Hannibal being conqueror, doth send it, so you as people subdued, will receive it. For you must consider, that you being conquered, must of the conqueror receive that which of his goodness he will give you as a reward. The conditions of peace are these: He will take the city (which he hath broken for the most part, and almost won) from you. He will leave to you the fields, and also assign a place, where you shall build a new city. He commandeth also your gold, silver, and other goods, public and private, to be brought to him. He is contented to suffer yourselves, your wives and children to pass in safe guard, if ye go out of the city unarmed, taking with you only double apparel for your bodies. Those things your victorious enemy Hannibal doth command you, the which your sorrowful chance and fortune doth persuade you to accept. Truly I doubt not, when ye have accomplished all these his requests, but that some of these conditions shallbe remitted unto you. I think better, you should rather suffer these injuries, than yourselves to be slain, your wives and children taken & violently led away before your faces, by the extreme laws of war.   

¶ How Sagunt was cruilly conquered. Cap. v.  
when Alorcus had ended his oration, the chief rulers of the city departed suddenly from the rest of the multitude, and gathered all their gold and silver from the public and private places, into the market place: and before any answer was given unto Alorcus, touching his message, they cast it all into a fire, that was quickly made for the same purpose, and many cast themself headlong after. When the fear the trembling and the quaking for this business had passed through the city, another rumour was afterward heard. A tower of the city, that had long time be bruised and shaken, fell down to the earth: at which place a company of the Carthaginenses entered. Hannibal in such a chance thinking not meet long to deliberate, with great violence entered the town, and incoutinent commanded, that all the youth should be slain, a cruel victory, notwithstanding it was known in that case almost necessary. For which of those should be spared, that either being enclosed with their wives & children burned their houses over them: or else being well armed, would determine no end of the war but by death? The city was taken with a great pray: of the which moche goodly household stuff was sent to Carthage. Some writ, the viii month that the war began, the city was won, and that Hannibal for the winter, returned again to new Carthage. During which time the ambassadors that went to Carthage, brought word to Rome, that the Saguntines were overcome and destroyed, and their city taken: Which tidings heard and known for truth, brought such heaviness and sorrow together to the Romans, What for pity of their friends unworthily lost, and for shame that they had not succoured them in due time, that thereby they conceived as great displeasure toward the Carthaginenses, and also fear of loss of their own country and goods, as though the hole power of their enemies had been present at hand. Thus being troubled at one time with divers motions of the mind, they seemed rather to quake and tremble than to take counsel: and good cause why. For there never warred against them a more cruel enemy, nor more vehementely given to all kinds of war: neither their citizens never so sluggish and unmeet to warfare as then. When they had long bewailed this sorrowful chance, they prepared all things as meet and necessary for the wars as they could. Some were sent into France, some into Africa, and likewise into all other places, where they had wars.   

¶ How the roman ambassadors sent to Carthage, and from thence into Spain, sped. Cap. vi.  
ALL the foresaid businesses prepared and set in good order, Quintus Fabius, Marcus Livius, Lucius Aemilius, Caius Lucinius, and Quintus Bebius were sent into Africa, to in quere of the Carthaginenses, whether Hannibal destroyed the city of Sagunt, by the assent of the public counsel or no. And if they would grant and defend, that it was done by the holle counsel, than to declare unto them, that they would revenge their wrongs in battle. After the Romans were come to Carthage, and that Quintus Fabius had in the senate inquired of the senators of Carthage, according to his commandment, a prince of Carthage answered on this wise.  
¶ Oye Romans, your first legacy (when ye came and required Hannibal to be delivered unto you, as one that had besieged Sagunt of his own mind without our counsel) was void and of none effect: How than should this your cruel legacy take place, wherein ye require of us a confession of the trespass, and amends for the same? I think it ought not to be inquired, whether Sagunt was destroyed by our public or private counsel, but whether it was done rightfully or wrongfully. For your question and consideration, as concerning our citizen is, whether he enterprised the siege and battle by his own mind, or by our accord: and our controversy with you is, whether it might be done, the truce being observed, or no. Therefore sith it must be determined, what rulars may do by the common counsel, and what of their own will: Ye must understand, that the truce that was taken between you and us, was given by Luctatius, than being your consul: in which it was contained, that both our friends should be spared, no mention being made of the Saguntines, for as th●n they were not your friends. But verily in the truce, that was taken with hasdrubal, the Saguntines were excepted, against which I will say nothing, but that I have learned of you. Truly ye refused to observe the truce, that C. Luctatius your consul did decree and make with us, because it was not done by authority of the father's conscript of your senate: than if you do not observe and keep your bands and truce, unless they be constitute and made by your authority and commandment: We also will not observe the truce taken by Hasdrubal, whereof we were ignorant. Wherefore leave now to speak of Sagunt and Iberus: and declare boldly that which you have long time consulting, devised. Than the roman Legate advanced forth himself, and said: Here we bring unto you peace or war: take whether you will. Whereunto they fiercely answered, that he should give whether he would. And when he again setting forth his commandment, had showed them that they should have war, they answered all: that they would accept it, and with no less courage prosecute the war, than they had received it.  
¶ When the Roman ambassadors had proposed the war as it was commanded them, they went from thence into Spain, with fair behests to win and allure the chief cities thereof to their favour, and to turn from the Carthaginenses. first they came to Bargusies, who received them gently, because they were weary to be under the dominion of Carthage, stirring much people with desire of the new wars. From thence they came to the Volcians: whose wise and quick answer shortly known through Spain, turned the residue of the people from the friendship of the Romans. Thus the eldest of them in counsel answered.  
¶ Die Romans, how may ye for shame require us to accept your friendship before the friendship of the Carthaginenses, when they that so did (the Saguntines) ye more cruelly betrayed than their enemies did destroy. Therefore I would counsel you, to go seek your friends, where the destruction of Sagunt is not known. For as their destruction was an heavy and pitiefull thing to the Spaniards: so is the same a great warning and teaching, that no man should trust to the promise and friendship of the Romans. With this answer they were commanded shortly to departed from the Volcianes, neither could they after get any better petition of any of the counsel of Spain. And so when they had in vain travailed through spain, they came into France where when they had before the nobles and great multitude of the people, magnified and extolled the renown and power of the Romans, they desired, that the Carthaginenses should have no way through France, to lead their army into Italy. At which request there arose such a laughing among them, that (as it was said) scarcely the youth could be pacified of the ancient men and rulers. Their desire was thought very foolish and unreasonable, that the frenchmen should not suffer the Carthaginenses to lead their army through France: but they for other men's pleasure should turn the war to themselves, and hazard their country to be destroyed. When the noise was appeased, answer was made, that the Romans were at no time so friendly unto them, nor the Carthaginenses so great foes, that they would either hold with the one, or war against the other. They said more over, that the Romans had driven divers of their country men out of Italy, and caused other to pay tribute, with many other injuries. Such answer for the most part they received through all France, nor other news of peace or friendship they scarcely heard before they came to Massilia: There they had knowledge by certain of their friends, that Hannibal had obtained the hearts of the frenchmen before, and that he had corrupted the princes and rulers with money, whereof they were most covetous and desirous of all nations. So when the Romans had wandered through Spain and France, at last they came to Rome, not long after the Consuls were gone to the provinces, & they found the city wholly bent on the expectation of war. For it was evidently known, that the Carthaginenses were passed the river Iberus.   

¶ How Hannibal renewing the war, conducted his army into France to pass the mountains. Cap. seven.  
AFter Sagunt was won, Hannibal (as afore-is said) went to new Carthage for the winter, and there hearing what was done and said both at Rome and Carthage, and that he was not only the captain of the wars, but also the chief cause thereof: parting and dividing the residue of the pray, and thinking to lose no longer time, called the soldiers of Spain together, and exhorting them to war, said on this wise:  
¶ I suppose that you my friends do know, seingal Spain is peaceable and at rest, that either we must finish the warfare and send home our soldiers, or else begin wars with some other nation. If we seek renown and victory in other countries, our own nation shall not only flourish in goods, tranquillity, and peace of their own at home, but also enjoy the richesse, the jewels of the spoil at our conquest. Wherefore seeing ye must travail far from home, and uncertain it is, when ye shall return again to see your houses, and those whom you love, if any of you will go see his friends, I shall give him spending for a season, but I warn you all, that ye be here again with me at the spring of the year, at which time I intend to begin the wars, by the God's favour, with great hope of winning and praise. Every man was glad of the liberty that Hannibal of his free will had given them, to go see their countries and friends. The rest from travail which they had all the winter season, made them strong and lusty in their bodies and courageous to endure the labours and pains that were to come. And at the beginning of ver they assembled together, as it was commanded.  
¶ When Hannibal had taken the musters of all nations that came to aid him, he departing from Gades, accomplished his vow made to Hercules: and bound himself with new vows, if his other enterprises did prosperously succeed. Wherefore providing as well for to withstand invasions, as to invade by war, lest while that he journeyed by land, through Spain and France toward Italy, he should leave Africa open and naked to the romans from Sicilia, he determined to leave there strong garrisons in all places. And for that cause he sent for a bend of africans, namely of those that use to throw darts, and were light harnessed: which number of africans he lest in Spain, and than sent he a great number of Spaniards into Africa to keep that country, to the intent they being each of them far from their countries and friends, should (as though they were pledges each for other) play the good soldiers, and sticking together, defend in that they might the one country of the other. After he had ordered and assigned strong garrisons to every part and region, as to Carthage, Spain, and Africa, removing his army from Gades to new Carthage, led them from thence to the river of Iberus, and to the sea cost. There (it was said) he saw in his sleep a young man of a heavenly shape, which said he was sent from jupiter unto Hannibal, to conduct him into Italy, showing to him before the destruction of Italy: and that he should proceed in his viage, & search no more? for the destinies were hid & secret. When he had seen and heard these things, he conveyed his host, divided into three parts, over the river of Iberus. divers of his friends he sent before him, to win the hearts of the frenchmen with gifts, through whose country he must needs pass: and also to view the passages over the mountains. He conducted lxxx and ten M. footmen, and xii M. horsemen over the foresaid water of Iberus. Than subdued he divers towns & dominions thereabout, which lay at the foot of the mount of Pyrene, and there he appointed Hanno with ten thousand footmen, and a thousand horsemen to remain to keep those passages and straits, which lay between France and Spain, when they began to approach nigh to the foresaid high and dangerous mountains, and that it was openly known, that the war was taken against the Romans, three thousand of the carpetans footmen, suddenly departed from the host, and forsook him: not for fear of the war, but for the long journey, and perilous passage over the mountains, almost unable to be passed. Hannibal seeing he could not change their minds, and that it was doubtful to keep them by violence, lest it should steer the fierce minds of the residue and make them weary, sent after them above vii M. other more, such as he supposed to be weary of the warfare: fay●ing that he had also licensed them that were first stolen away, to departed home, because of the tedious journey: this did he to th'intent the rest should have none occasion to leave or forsake him. And than lest by prolonging the time, he should hinder the minds of the residue, he led his host forth with speed, and passing the mountains of Pyrene, pitched his tents before a town, called Illiber. The frenchmen although they heard that the Carthaginenses were come to war upon Italy, yet because the fame went, that the Spaniards on the other side of the hill of Pyrene, were by them subdued, and strong garrisons therefore there left, being afraid of servitude, armed them, and moche people assembled at a town called Ruscino. Which thing when Hannibal heard, fearing more delay of time, than war, with as great haste as might be, he sent orators to their rulers, desiring to speak with them: showing that he came not as an enemy, but as a guest or friend to France, and that he would not, if it pleased them, draw his sword, before he were passed France. The frenchmen hearing this, incontinent removed to Illiber, and with good will came to Hannibal, which wan●e them with gifts, to suffer him to have free passage through their towns and countries.   

¶ How Hannibal passed the river of Rhodanus, put the Frenchmen to flight, refused to fight with the consul of Rome, and with what words he couraged his soldiers to pass the mountains. Cap. viii.  
THus Annibal either with fear or with money winning the countries as he went, brought his host to a field of the Volcanes', a strong kind of people, which inhabited on both sides the water of Rhodanus, who doubting the power of the Carthaginenses, and mistrusting their own strength, conveyed all that they had over the river, and foremost kept the part thereof, that the river should be as a munyment or defence to them: The residue of the inhabitants, that remained there (because they were glad to rid the country of such a huge numbered of men of war) were such contented to be retained by Hannibal for rewards to make boats nd ships, to pass over the river: so that in short space they had gotten and new made a great navy of ships, and of small cockebotes. The frenchmen began to fashion boats, hewing trees and making them hollow, after the right fashion: And than the soldiers themselves, both for the plenty of timber and also the easiness of the craft, every man hewed his tree, and made a boat to carry himself and his stuff over. when all thing was made ready to pass over, the great company of enemies on horseback and o● foot, that were on the other side, abashed them sore. Which to drive away, Hannibal sent Hanno Bomilcars' son with a strong company namely of Spaniards, in the beginning of the night, commanding them to keep up the rivers side a days journey, and as soon as be could to convey his company over privily, that they might be ready when time required, to set upon their enemies behind. Certain frenchmen were appointed to guide and convey them up along the river side: Who conducted them the space of xxv miles up the stream to ●●●tell Isle, where they felled trees, and speedily made bote●, in the which they might convey themselves, their horses, and their necessary stuff over. The spaniards throwing their clothes upon botels, and sitting on their sheldes fastened above thereon, passed the river, the rest of the host, joining boats together, passed over, and pitched their tents on the other side of the river, where after their nights journey, and weary days labour, they rested all that day and night to refresh them. The next day they removed from thence, and with bourning made a smoke, to signify that they were passed the river, and they were not far of. Which thing when Hannibal perceived, lest he should lose the time, gave a ●ygne to his host to pass over. The footmen with their baggage passed over in boats: the horsemen shipped such horses, as at their landing they must needs occupy, the rest of the horses they tied to small boats, and caused them to swim over. And to assuage the rage of the water, as well for the ease of the small boats, as of the horses that swam, they set the great ships and boats between the stream and them. The frenchmen seeing this, ran to the banks with great shouting and singing ●●ter 〈…〉, knocking their sheldes over theyrheades, 〈…〉 their weapons in their ryghthandes: not withstanding it was a terrible bashement unto them, to behold such a multitude of ships, to here the huge noise and rush of the water: the divers cries and clamours of the mariners and soldiers, that endeavoured them to overcome the rage of the water: the exhortations that they that were landed gave to the other.  
Thus being in great fear of the tumultuous ruffling before them, behind them arose a more 〈◊〉 clamour, that Hanno had taken their camp, and 〈◊〉 on them at their backs: they fled every man what way he might soon get. When Hannibal had conveyed the rest of his host over, nothing regarding the frenchmen, pitched his tents. The Romans had sent P. 〈◊〉 Scipio with 〈◊〉 army to ●ere with Hannibal, and was a little before arrived at Massilia, and had pitched his tents on the side of the river of Rhodanus. When Annibell knew thereof, he sent .v. C. Numidian horse men, to view the romans camp, their order, and also the ●●●ber of them, who being espied were encountered withal ●●y iii C. romans, which after great ●●aughter on both sides obtained the victory, and perforce put the Numidians to flight. Publius Cornelius Scipio, being consul and capitain of the Roman army, looked for none other thing but that Hannibal should gyne him battle. And like it was, that he would so have done, had not the legates of the Boios, and the ruler of France (which offered themselves as companions in the journey) turned his mind: advising him in nothing to minish his power till he were come into Italy. When Hannibal was firmly fixed to go forth, he began to exhort and encourage his soldiers, which were almost discouraged with fear of the doubtful passage over the high mountains, which they should pass, showing unto them, that before they came out of Spain, they had brought all those people and realms which were enclosed with two several seas, to be under the dominion of Carthage: And that it were shame for them to depart, seeing they had already passed the jeopardous passage over the river of Rhodanus, and also overcome so many frenchmen, that prohibited them that perilous passage. Moreover he said, the 〈◊〉 hyghmountaynes were in their sight, which on the one part joined to Italy. He showed them also, that the said mountain were not so dangerous, as they supposed them to be. For they were but high hills, and that men and beasts did inhabit upon them, which hills whiles they did not touch the sky, might be overcome by man's labour. Also seeing that travailers passed over with their stuff wives and children, much more soldiers, having but their armour and weapons, might go over them: ye may (said he) well perceive, that such as in times past went over these hills, had not wings to ●●ee over them, wherefore either ye must give place both in hardiness and virtue to the frenchmen, being so oftentimes overcome of us, which by their strength and manhood conquered these mountains in old time, or else let us trust, that the end of our journey shall be the great field dying between the river of Tiber, and the walls of Rome.  
¶ When he had with these exhortations encouraged them, the next day he removed from Rhodanus, and took his way through the middle of France, not because that was his next way, but for that he would not meet the Romans before he came into Italy. Wherefore he went the further from the sea, and brought his host into a little I. The inhabitants whereof were called Allobroges, a kind of people, that in honour and richesse might not lightly be matched in France. Among them was great discord, by reason of two brethren that strove for the land. When Hannibal was entered the said land, the determination of the contention was committed wholly to him: who in short space set and established the elder in possession of the inheritance. Which done, the said land aided him with men, victuals, clothes, to defend them from the cold of the mountains, and other necessaries, and so he departed to go to the mountains, not holding the right way, but held on the left hand still without interruption until he came to a blood called Druentia, this was in all France the daungeroust river to pass over. For not withstanding that the water was swift and of great strength, yet could it bear no ships, because it was enclosed with no sure banks: so that it made now here d●ye ground, now there deep trylle hooles.  
Beside this 〈…〉 stones, so that there 〈…〉 to 〈◊〉 over.  
¶ After 〈…〉 from the river of 〈…〉 within iii days came to the camp where 〈…〉 they were gone, and that he could not easily 〈◊〉 them, he went to his ships, thinking to meet them ●s they descended from the mountains into Italy, and so the better to meddle with them there. And because Spain fhulde not be left without defence, he sent thither 〈◊〉 Scipio his brother with a great part of his host, against 〈◊〉, to the intent not only to help his friends and get 〈◊〉, but also to deign hasdrubal out thereof, if hemyght: he himself with a small army went to 〈◊〉, and with the host, that lay about the river of Padus, he intended to ●●pe Italy.   

¶ how and with what labour, 〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉 great 〈…〉 his army passed 〈◊〉 the 〈…〉 into Italy. Capit. ix.  
HAnniball came from Druentia moste part by the plain fields and valleys (by the sufferance of the frenchmen being inhabitants there) to the Alps or high mountains: ●●d as the fame went, so it was found: The tops of the high hills were mingled with snow, that almost touched the sky, and full ●●de houses were set upon the rocks, the beasts and labouring cattle being weathered for cold, the men naked, v●shanen, and unrounded, all the beasts and people werehardned and drawentogither with frost: with other things more fearful and filthy to be seen than spoken, which when the host saw near hand, did renew and increase their dr●de. As the army marched up betwixt the rocks, they might perceive the mountain men assembled on the hills over them to defend the passage. Annibal caused his standards to stay there, and sent the Frenchmen to view the passage. And when he understood, that there was no going that way, he pitched his tents in the plainest valley that he could find among the 〈◊〉 stones & crags. And perceiving by the frenchmen, who knew almost their language, that the besert passages were kept on the day time, and that on the night every of them would repair to their cottages or houses. The next morning he got up on the hills, making semblance as thought he would attempt to win the passage by force. Thus he ●pent the hole day, dissembling to do one thing, and intending an other, till it was night: than he withdrew him to his camp, where he before rested. But so soon as he wist, that the mountain men, and those that watched the passage, were gone to their rest: he made many great fires, and leaving all the carriage and stuff, with the horsemen and most part of the footmen in his camp, himself with a great numbered of light and valiant men, quickly passed the straits, and gate the same hills, that the other kept before: The next day the host and stuff began to come after. In the morning the mountain men assembled to go to their places as they were wont to do. But when they saw their enemies had gotten their castles and places above their heads, it feared them sore, and caused them to stay for a season. afterward, when they saw so great fear among the host in the straights, and that they were almost confounded with their own noise and trouble, the horses trembling for breed: they thought to put them to further trouble, and to work them more displeasure. Wherefore they came down by the hills side along the rocks, being used thereto, where none other could escape: And now here, now there, invaded the army, so that what for the dangerousness of the passage, and also by their enemies they were marvelously encumbered. But above all other troubles the greatest was, that when they saw themselves thus in danger by reason of their enemies and of the passage: than strove the one with the other, who should first escape the danger thereof, by passing first the said straits, fighting more with their own company than with their enemies. Their cattle being also stricken and hurt by the dearth of the mountains, roaring and yelling, hurt and overthrew many of the host, some armed, some unarmed down the high mountains, with stuff and baggage, that pity it was to behold. When Hannibal was in form thereof, he descended with a great number with him and at his first coming, he disparkled and put his enemies to flight, so that afterward he had not only leisure to convey his army, but also silence and quietness. Th●n he took the castle the chief place of all that region, and other their villages. And with the captives cattle he found his army three days. Departing from thence he came to an other sort of mountain people, which not by battle, but being taught by the destruction of their neighbours, with craft subtlety and wily deceits, wrought him much displeasure. Certain of the eldest and chiefest of the castles came to Hannibal, showing him, that they being admonished with the harm of their neighbours, would rather have his friendship and amity, than provoke the wrath of the Carthaginenses, offering to obey his commandments, and to aid him with victuals, and to conduct him and his people on their way, and for the assurance thereof, they offered to deliver him pledges. Hannibal as wise and taught in such rusynes, neither gave to their words over hasty credence, nor despised their gentle offer: lest thereby he should have made them his manifest enemies, but soberly received their hostages, and used their aid upon the way: whose guides he followed not negligently, but in good order and array. The elephants and horsemen were set before, and Hannibal himself came after with the strength of his footmen in good array, wisely overloking all thing. Wh●n they came to a more narrow way, having an high hill on the one side, the said barbaryke people suddenly set upon them both behind and afore, rolling down great stones among the host: The rearward was by them sore troubled: so that if it had not been surely defended, many of them had been destroyed. In this trouble and peril remained they all the day: till the night caused the enemies to withdraw. On the morrow they were nothing so vexed as the day before. For their assaults were but skirmishes, sometime before, sometime behind. Wherefore they passed the straights, and came to the top of the mountains, within the space of ix days, not without great jeopardy and slaughter, but more of the beasts than of the men. There Hannibal caused the army, being wearied with labour, travail, and fighting, to rest them the space of two days. During which time there fell such abundance of snow, that it reviewed their sorrows, for the snow filling every place as the army should pass in the morning, made them almost desperate. Hannibal perceiving their great discourage, got before the slanders, and went up on a hill, from whence he might see far and wide, where causing his army to stay a little, he showed to them Italy, and the fair fields that lay about the river of Padus, adjoining to the mountains: and he said unto them, that after they had passed these mountains, they had already scaled the walls not only of Italy, but also of the very city of Rome, showing them, that all other passages were plain, easy, and nothing dangerous: and that within two or three battles at the most, they should attain Rome, which was the head of Italy. With that the host began to set forward without any interruption, except it were by small invasions, as it were of robbers, and such small skyrmyshing: But the way to descend was then more dangerous than it was at the ascending up of the same: for it was so narrow, stipe, and slyppy, that they could not save themselves from falling. And when one slode, he overthrew him, that went before him, so that men and cattle were in jeopardy of their lives. After that came they to a moche more straight rock, the clysses thereof were so high and steep, that with great pain, the ligier soldiers, by taking hold of the shrubs and trees, that grew on the rock side, could descend down. The place, which was before of his own nature pytchelonge, by sudden breaking down of the earth, was made a thousand foot steep right down to the bottom. The horsemen stayed there, as thought they had been at their journeys end. When Hannibal inquired, what caused them to tarry, it was showed him, that no man could pass the danger of the rock. Than went he to see the place himself: and it seemed to him, that by the paths and ways, which appeared to have been unused, by leisure and long compass, he might well enough convey his army about the rock, but all was in vain, for upon the old ice and frozen snow there was the night before new snow fallen of a small thickness, which after a little going upon, thawed and gave some what again, and became so slyppy, that scarcely upon their hands and knees could they sustain themselves. Their horse● 〈…〉 in the 〈◊〉, and were sore cut on their legs with the 〈…〉: so that it was great pity to here the 〈◊〉 that the people made in every part. To appease all this noise, and to comfort his people, Hannibal caused the● by palyce to make a place to pitch they● tents on. first he caused the snow and use to be digged up and stricken away, which was not done without great labour and trau●●le. Than had he invented a proper device to break the rocks, and through them to make a reasonable passage, he caused his company to cut down a great numbered of trees that grew on the hall over them, which he caused to be tumbled down the hill unto the said troublesome rocks, and thereof to make great piles of wood upon the said great rocks, and when the wind was big, he caused them to be set on fire. Than caused he great plenty of vinegar to be powered on the stones that were before burned and wasted with the great heat of fire, whereby they were made moche more gentle to be broken and hewed, and than with bars of iron and other instruments they broke and bruised the rocks and made them away so plain, that not only the cattal might pass through, but also their elephants and their carriage. About this work they continued four days, in which time their c●ttall was almost f●●ished, for on the hills was nothing but snow to be gotten. Wherefore they sent their beasts to the valeis parts to graze, wherethey also rested iii days, and than they came to the plain countries, which were occupied with husbandry, and were fertile. After this manner they came into Italy, the fift month after they set forth from new Carthage: And as some writers say, they passed the mountains in xu days. What numbered of men Hannibal brought into Italy, the writers do not agree. Some say he had C. thousand footmen, and twenty thousand horsemen: some write of more, and some of less. ❧   

¶ How both the armies of Rome and Carthage approached, and the oration that P. C. Scipio the consul made to ●ncourage his men to fight. Capit. x.  
AT Hannibal's coming to those parties, he found much for his purpose, the Taurines and Insubres warring one against the other, but he could not arm his host to help the one part, for their bodies were so weary of labour, their clothes so foul and filthy, that some desired to rest after their travail, some sought for victuals after their hunger, some tarried to change their apparel and make clean their garments: they were so sore handled in passing the mountains. Which thing P. Cornelius Scipio the consul perceived well, and that caused him to make the more speed with his army to the river of Padus, that he might fight with them ere they were refreshed of their great labour, or could have time to furnish their army. Scipio had received of Manlius and Attilius, an host of new soldiers, not much exercised in wars, and such as were strangers to him. When he was come to Placentia, Annibal was removed and had taken and destroyed the chief city of the Taurines, because they would not willingly yield them: and had won to his amity all the dwellers about Padus, had not the coming of the consul feared them. By that time that Hannibal was a little removed from the Taurines, the two hosts were almost met, and also the captains. And as neither of them was as than known to the other, so they were stricken with a certain admiration the one of the other. For Hannibal, by the winning of Sagunt was dread of the romans: and like wise he supposed Scipio to be of no less fame and worthiness, for that he was chosen of the romans to be captain against him. Than Scipio passed over Padus, and removed his camp to a river called Ticinus: Where before he would give battle, to exhort and encourage his men, this he began his oration unto them.  
¶ If I had (loving soldiers) the same army, that I had in France with me, I would not speak unto you that, which I intend at this present time to say. For what should it need to steer and encourage those horsemen, which at the river of Rhodanus so valiantly overthrew their enemies: or those legions, with whom I followed this our fugitive enemy. Now for because that host was sent by the senate of Rome into Spain, there to make war under my brother Cneius Scipio, to the intent you should have both a consul and captain against Hannibal and the Carthaginenses, I willingly took upon me this war. A new capitain to new soldiers should use few words. notwithstanding lest ye should be ignorant in this kind of war, and not know with whom ye shall fight: ye shall understand, that with these ye shall have a do, whom in your last wars, ye subdued both by land and sea, of whom ye took truage perforce the space of twenty years: from whom also you won Sardinia and Sicilia as a prey of war. Therefore in this battle ye must have the same hearts and minds, that is wont to be in conquerors: and in your enemies must needs be such hearts as happen to men overcome. And they do not now give battle of their own hardiness and courage, but because they can not chose: unless you think, that they, which having their hole army fresh and lusty, withdrew them and durst not encounter with us in battle beyond the mountains, and which lost two parts both of horsemen and footmen in passing over the same mountains: should have now more hope and trust than before. And those few that be left of them, have lost both hearts and strength: so that they are now images, yea rather shadows of men, than men in deed being clonged together with hunger and cold, faint and feebled among the rocky hills. Besides this, their sinews and veins are shrunk together with cold of the snow, their members withered with frost and ice, their harnies shaken, rusty, and broken, their horses feeble and lame. With these enemies you must fight, ye they are the leavings of your enemies, and not your enemies. And I fear nothing more, than before you shall fight with your foes, it shallbe thought, that the mountains have first overcome them, and taken the honour from us. But so it is perchance necessary and meet, that the God's without man's help, and without battle, should overcome them, that are truce breakers. And we that be violated and deceived, should next after the God's (as their ministers) bring them to utter confusion. Peradventure many of you will suppose, that I speak these words proudly and highly, only for your exhortation and comfort, and that I should think otherwise myself: Therefore ye shall understand, that I was sent into spain to mine own province, whether I was now going with mine host, where I should have used both the fellowship and counsel of my brother in all perils and jeopardies, and should have fought rather with Hasdrubal being less of power, than with Hannibal: and so should I have had less to do. Not withstanding when I arrived with my ships beyond the costeo of France, landing I heard great bruit of Hannibal, and sending a certain horsemen before, pitched my tents at Rhodanus: and there my company overthrew and put to flight those, with whom it was their chance to meet in battle. Than because I could not with footmen overtake mine enemy, which fled before me, I returned to my ships, and with as good speed as I could make, sailing a great compass about, arrived here, to meet him in the front of the mountains, to the intent to give him battle: And to prove whether the earth hath brought forth suddenly, within the space of these twenty years, other Carthaginenses, than were wont to be bred there or no. For if these be of the kind of them, that warred at the isles of Egates, I remember well, that they were sold from Erix for xviii d. a piece come who would. Also I long to prove, whether this Hannibal be the follower of Hercules in his journey, as he saith that he is, or else a tributary, a stipendiary, and a servant to the people of Rome, left by his father. We have to show the bands of truce, written with the hand of his father Amilcar: who being commanded by our captain, withdrew his garrison from the city of Erix, who lamenting and frowning received the grievous laws made against the Carthaginenses subdued, who covenanted with the romans to departed from Sicilia and to pay tribute. Therefore soldiers, I would have you fight not only with so good a courage as ye were wont against other enemies, but also with such an indignation and displeasure, as though you saw your servants armed to fight against you. We might if we had would, when they were enclosed at Erix, with very hunger (the hardest and soorest punishment among men) have destroyed them. We might allabours so (if we had would) have sailed with our victorious Navy into Africa, and it: short space with out battle, utterly have destroyed Carthage. We pardoned them, we made peace with them after they were subdued, and took them into our protection and defence when they were sore grieved with the wars of Africa. And for these our benefits showed unto them, following this furious young man, they come to conquer our country. And would to god this battle now were for honour, and not for the health and safety of us all. We fight not now for the possession of Sicilia and Sardinia, for which we stro●e in times passed: but now we must fight for Italy. Nor there is none other army behind us, which will withstand them if we be overthrown: Nother be there any more mountains, over which whiles they were passing, men might provide new succours. Here we must resist them even as we should fight before the walls of Rome. Every man must think that he with his armour covereth not and defendeth only his own body, but also his wife and small children. Nor let no man care only for his own house and family but let him likewise have in mind, that the senate and people of Rome beholdeth this our conflict and battle, and upon our fortune at this present time dependeth the prosperity o● the city and hole empire of Rome.   

¶ With what examples and words Hannibal exhorted his soldiers to fight valiantly. Cap. xi.  
Whiles Scipio the consul in this manner exhorted the Romans, Hannibal thinking first to encourage his men with deeds, before he would exhort them with words, disposed his army in compass as it were to behold a fight, and than he brought in the mids of them the mountain men sinned, whom he before had taken prisoners: and laid also in the same place the armour of the frenchmen, which he had overcome, and caused one, that could speak the language, to inquire of those prisoners, which of them, if they were loosed out of their bonds, would take horse and armour, and fight for their lines. When they all had desired armour and battle, he caused lots for them to be cast, and according to the lot loosed a great number of them, who with leaping and skypping after their manner, every of them shortly took his armour, being as joyful and glad to die with honour, as to live with shame and in capti●itie. Than incontinent he called his soldiers about him, and made to them an oration in manner and form following.  
¶ If ye have any mind or remembrance of the example of the stranger's fortune not long passed, ye should have the same even now, in weighing your own fortune and chance. We have overcome in battle those our captives. Wherefore ye must think, that all these your prisoners, now showed before you, were not showed as a spectacle for you to behold, But as a certain resemblance of your own chance and condition, in case ye be now overcome and taken? And I can not tell, whether fortune hath given greater bands, and more urgent necessity to you, than it hath given heretofore to these captives. Two seas do compass you both on the right hand and on the left: and ships have you none to escape away withal. The water of Padus is all about us, more violent than the river of Rhodanus, and at our backs are the high mountains, which ye passed with so great pain and peril. Wherefore loving soldiers, ye must either over come your enemies at the first encounter, or else be slain. And the self fortune, which hath brought you now into such necessity, that needs ye must fight or die: the same fortune shall give you such rewardis, if ye subdue your enemies, as no mortal men can desire greater of the immortal God's. If we should by our valiantness recover again but only Sicilia and Sardinia, which were won from our forefathers, it might be thought a sufficient reward. But in case we speed well now what so ever the Romans have gotten with so many victories and triumphs, and all the dominions, which they now possess, shall be all ours, with the princes, lords, and rulers of the same. To win so rich a prey with favour and help of the God's, arm yourself, and set forth boldly. Ye have hitherto long enough chasing beasts on the wide and large mountains of Lusitania and Celtiberia, found ●o worty pray nor reward to recompense so many your and perils. Now it is time to get your rich preys measuryngly our great rewards according to the deserts of your travail, enterprising this so great a journey, passing over so many mountains and rivers, and by so many kinds of armed people. Here fortune hath given you an end of your travail: Here fortune will reward you according to the costs and charges that you have been at. Nor ye should not suppose the victory to be so hard, as the battle is of great name. Oftentimes a small host hath made a great and a doubtful battle: agaynl noble people yea and kings have been over come in a little moment. For take away the terrible sound of the name of Rome, and what are they to be compared to you? Your great wars this twenty years, with your manhood with your good fortune I speak not of: I will only remember things of late done. Ye are come hither from the pillars of Hercules, from the Ocean sea, from the furthest part of the world, passing through and conquering so many fierce and cruel nations of Spain and France. You shall now fight with young and untaught soldiers, of late beaten and overcome by the frenchmen, and as yet unknown to their captain, and he unto them. Shall I that was born and brought up in the noble house of my father, that hath been the chastyser of Spain and France, that have conquered not only the people of the mountains: but also all the passages, which is moche more: compare myself with this weak capitain of a fortnight old, wand'ring from host to host: to whom if a man this day would show the army of Carthage and the army of the Romans together: he can not tell of which host he is governor, but only by the banners and badges. Surely worthy warriors, I esteem not this a little, that there is none of you, before whom I have not done some worthy feat of war. At that time ye did extol and laud me, and thought me worthy of gifts and preferrment. And now I shall more like a father than a capitain, before you all enter into battle against these people, that neither knoweth us, nor any of them knoweth other. Where so ever I cast mine eyes, I see nothing among you but hardiness and strength, the most ancient and famous footmen, the most noble armed and unarmed horsemen, and you most faithful and hardy Carthaginenses and fellows, shall both fight for your country, and in a just and righteous quarrel. We bring war and banners displayed into Italy noisome to the Romans: And so much more boldly we may fight, in how much the hope and courage of us that invade, is stronger than theirs that only defend. Besides all this their wrong, and unworthy dealing toward us, both kindle and encourage our minds. For first I being captain was required, and than all you that were at the destruction of Sagunt, were in likewise required to be delivered to the romans to be put to death. This most cruel and proud nation doth all things after their own brain and judgement: they will determine with whom we shall have war or peace. All thing that they do, they think it rightful. They will appoint hills and floods to be bounds and meres, which we may not pass, yet will not they observe the places and terms, which they have set and prescribed themselves. Thou shalt not (say they) pass Iberus, lest thou make the a do with the Saguntines, Sagunt is at Iberus: Therefore you shall not move thither from your appointed place. They esteem it but a little to have taken from us our most ancient provinces, Sardinia and Sicilia, but they will have Spayn also. And if they win that, than they will have Africa. I may well say Africa also, For they have sent two consuls this year, one into Africa, and an other into Spain. There is nothing left to us, but that that we must be fain to win again with the sword. If fear compelle them, like cowards to flee here from us, they have places enough to receive them, they know the countries and ways whereby to escape: It behoveth you to play the valiant men, and setting all at six and seven, either to vanquish, or else if fortune frown, rather manfully to die in battle, than to be slain in fleeing away, If this that I have said, be fast fixed in your minds, I say to you for certain, you have all ready the victory.   

¶ How Scipio and 〈…〉, and fought together, 〈◊〉 how the 〈◊〉 was hurt, 〈…〉. Cap xii.  
when by these exhortations the men of war on both parts were kindled and stired to battle, the Romans pitched their tents ●t Ticinus, where they began to make a bridge, and first they made a tower upon the same, for the safeguard of the bridge whiles it was working. But while they were occupied about their work, Hannibal sent maharbal, with a wing of the Numidies of .v. C. horsemen, to destroy the fields of such as were friends to the romans, charging them to spare the frenchmen: and to steer the princes to forsake the Romans amity. When the bridge was made, Scipio conveyed his army over, and pitched within .v. miles of Hannibal's camp. And when the Romans host approached, maharbal was called back. Wh●n Hannibal (who could never enough stir his soldiers to battle) had promised them gifts, rewards, ye and freedom, with lands also other in Africa Spayn or Italy at their own pleasures in case they might obtain the upper hand, he did sacrifice unto the God's, holding a lamb in the left hand, and a ●●ynt stone in the right hand, desiring jupiter and the God's all, so to slay him as he did the lamb, if he would weak promise with them. And than every of them receiving a sure hope, desired the battle. The Romans made no such haste, because they were feared with strange tokens and fights a little before. For a wolf was se●e to come into their camp, which rent and tore those that he met, and himself escaped without hurt. divers other such tokens very strange, were showed among the Romans. When Scipio had sought diligently what they might signify: he went with certain horsemen with him, to a little hill ●ere adjoining, to view the number and demeanour of Annibals' host: where by chance he met Hannibal, and certain horsemen with him, that was also ridden forth to view the countries about. When they were almost met, with great care and diligence they set themselves in array to fight. The battle was strong for a season and doubtful. But in a while the Roman footmen fled back to their battle, where being mingled with the horsemen, they caused great confusion: but when the Numidian horsemen, which were on the wings, came on them also, than fled they on all parts to their camp. In this conflict was the consul Scipio sore wounded, whom with great pain his horsemen carried out of the field to their great discomfort. Wherefore the night following, the Romans, making as little noise as might be, that their enemies should have no knowledge, removed from Ticinus to Padus: and came to Placentia, before that Hannibal wist that they were departed from Ticinus. Mago with the Spanish footmen swum over the water quickly, and Hannibal by the higher part of the river, passed over his host with as great speed as might be. And within a few days he came and pitched before Placentia, and on the morrow after, in the sight of his enemies, he ranged his host, and set them in array ready to give battle. The night following by reason of a sedition that arose in the Roman army there were many frenchmen slain, of those that came to they rayed, whereupon two thousand footmen and two hundred horsemen of the frenchmen, slaying the watchmen at the gates, fled unto Hannibal, whom he gently entertained and kendled with hope of exceeding great rewards, and sent every man home to his own city, thereby the more to allure and turn the minds of the commons of their country unto him. Scipio deming this slaughter to be a token, that all the frenchmen would forsake him, and that they being touched with this evil deed, as a madness were fallen upon them, would run to harness, not withstanding his wound grieved him sore, yet as privily as he might in the night time, he removed his host to the river Trebia, and pitched in higher places, and on little hills ill for horsemen. Hannibal having knowledge thereof, sent first certain Numidians after, and than all the horsemen: which should have put the rearward to great trouble, had not the Numidians for covetousness of prey, turned to the void tents of the Romans, in which season they escaped.   

¶ How Hannibal 〈◊〉 with 〈◊〉 the co●sul, and by what means 〈◊〉 put the 〈◊〉 to ●●●ght. Cap. xiii.  
During this time was Sempronius the other consul going to Sicilia with his army, but in his journey he received letters from the senate, of the entering of the Carthaginenses into Italy, requiring him to aid the other consul as soon as he might. Which when he perceived, he laid garrisons in divers places, to defend the provinces, and came himself with a strong power into Italy, to keep the costs. Thus when the two consuls were met together, all the power of Rome was there assembled against Hannibal. Not withstanding the one consul, being abated by his first battle and sore wound, would rather prolong the matter than fight. But the other being fresh and lusty, and therefore more fierce, would have no delay, thinking it great honour unto him, if he might recover again that the other consul had lost. Wherefore he said, that there was no man would defer the battle, but only he, who being more weaker in his heart than in his body, for the remembrance of his wound, did refrain to fight. And also that the time ought not to be prolonged with sick folks. Shall we tarry and lose time? For what third consul, or what other army shall we abide? The Carthaginenses have pitched their tents in Italy, and weluere in the city of Rome: who seek now neither Sicilia, nor Sardinia, that were afore conquered from them, nor Spain beyond Iberus, but they are come to drive and expel the Romans out and from their own land and native country. O (say the he) how much would our fathers, who were wont to war before the walls of Carthage, lament, if they saw us their children, ye and two consuls, with their two hosts, trembling and quaking in Italy within our own camp, and that the Carthaginenses had won all the feldis between the Alps and Apenni●ū. These words spoke he to his hurt fellow in the Pretory. And also the choosing of officers at Rome, provoked him to make haste, lest that the tarrying for his fellow being hurt, might be occasion of their loss of praise and victory: and lest the war might be committed to new consuls, whose election was than at hand. Which thin things considered, they prepared for the battle in haste. Annibal although he thought, that nothing shalde be done unwarely, since the two consuls were met together, and that the war should be cruel and strong: yet did not he mistrust good fortune, because of his first battle. He was also the more busy and intentive to do battle, whiles he thought the soldiers his enemies were young and raw in the wars, and whiles one the best consul was yet not hole of his wounds: and whiles the Frenchemens hearts of his army (of whom he than had a great numbered) were strong and hardy, whose courage he thought and knew well would rather dyminyshe than increase, when they should be brought any further from their own country. These things considered, he sent certain Frenchmen abroad the country as spies, who showed him, that the romans were all ready to fight. Than Hannibal went to see and provide a place for disobeyed. There was in the mids between the two hosts, where the field should be, aryver which was closed on both sides, with great and high banks, be set about with the wiedes of the fens, which almost covered all the ground, with young willows and shrubs, and also with high bushes and thorns: which when he had searched and perceived it to be a place obscure and dark enough, to hide an inbusshement of horsemen in, he said to his brother Mago: This place shalt thou keep, and thou shalt (said he) chose unto the one thousand of horsemen, and one thousand of footmen, of the best of mine army, to lie here in these covert places: and when time shall require, to do as I shall show you what thereto appertaineth: and be ye sure, that ye shall have enemies blind in these feats of war. When Mago had a M. horsemen, and a. M. footmen delivered to him, Hannibal commanded the Numidian horsemen, the next morning to pass the water of Trebia, and ride up and down before the gates of his enemies camp: and when they had with casting and throwing into their tents and stations, provoked them to issue out to battle, alluring them to pursue after, that then they should by little and little recoil back again over the said river. The residu of the captains he commanded, that they should cause all their men to dine & refresh themselves, & after to be in a readiness, against they should be called to the battle. Sempronius bearing the rumour of the Numidies, brought all his army (being very desirous of battle) to the river, whereunto the other recoiled back, as was appointed by Hannibal. The weather was extremely cold, and it showed fast. The soldiers had taken no sustenance before, nor made any provision to strength and keep their bodies warm from the cold frost and snow. But in all haste following the Numidians, their crafty enemies that fled before them, entered into the river. Now was the water risen that night, by reason of that snow, as high as their breasts. When they came out of the water, their bodies were so stark and benumbed with cold, that scarcely they could hold their armour upon them: and also toward the mids of the day, they began to faint for hunger. In the mean season Hannibal caused great fires to be made before his soldiers tents, that every man might warm him: and also to put oil in their gloves, which should supple their joints and members. When they heard that their enemies were passed the river, being lusty both in body and heart, every man took his weapon and went to battle. Hannibal ordered his battles circumspectly: first he set forth his throwers of darts, which were of the isles called Baleares, than his light harnessed footmen, to the numbered of viii M. and after them the other footmen: he also bestowed in the ii wings ten M. horsemen, in whom rested the great strength of his battle, and into these wings also he departed his elephants, putting them craftily before the fight of his enemies horses, which were not wont to them, so that for strangeness of the sight, and the unaccustomed savour of them, they scattered abroad, and than the battle by the footmen was maintained for a season: But inone, what by reason of the horsemen and elephants, and also through the sudden coming of Mago with the Numidians, that fiercely assailed the Romans at their backs, they were stricken with such fear, that they fled on all parts: Some jeoparded to take the water again, and escaped to their tents, but of them were but few, for either they were drowned in the deep water, or else slain of their enemies in the chase at the water side. Many took the right way to Placentia, and thereby were saved. On the other side the Carthaginenses were so beaten with the rain mixed with snow, and with the intolerable cold, that the beasts, elephants, and men, were almost perished. The river of Trebia caused them to return from the pursuit of the Romans: so that almost dead for cold they came to their camp, with very small joy of their victory. The next night Scipio conveyed his host over the river of Trebia, and so to Placentia, unware to the Carthaginenses: who by reason of the vehement storm of rain that fell that night, could not here the removing: or else for pain of their wounds and weariness of labour, dissembled the matter and took no heed there of. Thus were the Romans conveyed peaceably to Placentia, and from thence they passed over Padus to Cremona. When the chance thereof was known at Rome, there arose such so dayn fear among them, as though their enemies had been come already with banners displayed before the gates of Rome: Neither had they hope of any further succours, whereby they might defend their enemies from their gates and walls: The one consul being overcome at Ticinus: and the other called from Sicilia to help him: and now both being together overcome, and their two hostis. What other captains, what other legions had they more left to with stand them?   

¶ Hannibal intending to take a certain castle by stealth, was encountered by the consul, wounded, and put to the worse, and after a great slaughter of the people he won Vicunnias. And how Cn. Scipio in Spain overthrow Hanno in battle. Cap. xiiii.  
When Sempronius by chance had escaped the great danger of his enemies, he returned to Rome, to the choosing of the new consuls, at which parliament Cneius Seruslius and C. Flaminius were created consuls. Which thing done, he came to Placentia, thinking to pass the winter quietly in that place, but the Romans had not quiet so moche as the winter time. For the Numidians and other of the host of Hannibal were sparkled abroad in the co●●es, so that they were troubled on every side. There was a certain market town and castle, not far from Placentia, very rich and strongly fenced. Thither went Hannibal with his horsemen, and such as were light harnessed, thinking to win it by assa●● in the night. But the watchmen perceiving his intent, raised such a cry, that it was heard to Placentia. Than the consul in the next morning, with his horsemen before, and his legions in good order following after, came thither, and gave them battle, in the which Hannibal was wounded: Whereby the Carthaginenses were in such fear, that they gave back, and the peace lasted whiles Hannibal's wound was in healing. And ere he was fully cured, he went to a place called Vicunuias. That place was surely kept by the Romans, who being a great numbered, what of the garrison, what of the towns men, also by reason of the assemble of the people of the country, who being afraid of the Numidians, which roved abroad: fled thither for succour: these people (I say) being many in numbered, hearing of the noble defending of the castle, adjoining to Placentia, thinking to do a great feat, with a great rout of people, without any order, ran to armour, and came forth to encounter with Hannibal. But because they were an unruly company, without a capitain or good order, the other, being but a few in number, and good men of war, having a good captain, unto whom they might trust, did discom●te of them xxxv thousand, and the next day took the town, and made such a slaughter and destruction among them, as was not heard of a great season before. These were Hannibal's victories during the wynterseason, after which they rested the deep of the winter: And as soon as spring time of the year came, Sempronius the consul, who was than returned from Rome, prepared to give battle to the Caathaginenses, & the first day that they met, the Romans had so good for tune, that they not only won the victory in plain field, but also drove them to their tents, and endeavoured themselves to win their camp. But Hannibal, setting certain of his footmen to defend their gates or entrees of their camp, and causing the rest, as well footmen as horsemen to recoil, did set them in array within the camp, to the intent to be in a readiness to rush out upon their enemies, so soon as he made to them a sign. The Romans seeing they could not win the camp, blewe the retreat. When Hannibal saw, that the battle was slakid, and the Romans began to recoil back from his camp: he set forth the horsemen, some on the right hand, and some on the left, and himself with the footmen, came after from the camp, and gave them a strong battle, putting them to much displeasure. But anon the night departed them with like loss and slaughter on both sides.  
¶ Whiles these things were done in Italy, Cn. Scipio, being sent into Spain with his host, partly by force, and partly by amity and old friendship, he brought all the countries from Lusitania, to the river of Iberus, under the obedience of the Romans. And also the fame of his gentle entertaining of people brought the inhabitants on the mountains, and the wild nations to be his assured friends. So that they were all ready with their armour & succours to aid the Romans to the best of their powers. Hanno, whom Hannibal had left for the defence of these regions, knowing these acts of Scipio, after his arrival, and fearing lest he should be by him put from the possession of all that country: appointed to fight with him before the matter were overfar gone, and pitched his camp not far from the host of the Romans. Scipio knowing that if he did long tarry from battle, he should have to do with him, and also with hasdrubal, who were both left for the defence of the country, thought it better for him to meet with them and their hosts severally, than to match with both the hosts together. Wherefore he made speed to meet first with Hanno and his company. In which battle there were slain vi thousand of the Carthaginenses, and ii M. taken with their captain Hanno, and all their tents, with a certain town also near unto the camp called Stissus. hasdrubal, before he herd of the discomfiture of his fellow Hanno, was passed the river of Iberus with viii M. footmen, and one thousand horsemen, intending to meet the Romans at their first coming: But when he heard of the overthrow of Hanno and his people, he turned toward the sea, where by chance he met with many Romans, that were left in the ships not far from Tarracon, wandering abroad upon the sea costis, taking no heed to their enemies, as people mistrusting nothing, but being negligent by reason of their late prosperous success. Of these negligent persons many he 〈◊〉 the rest he drone to their ships with great fear. 〈◊〉 the less himself being afraid of Scipio's coming, ●urste not long tarry in those parties, but with his army passed the river of Iberus, and destroyed the fields of the Illergites, bringing them to his subjection.   

¶ How Annibal passed the dangerous 〈◊〉 ●●re to the river of Arnus, to the great loss of his mean and cattle, where the fenny ●yre caused him to lose one of his eyes. And of the haste that Flaminius the Consul maketh to give him battle. Cap. xv.  
AS soon as the spring of the year did appear Annibal going from the place, where he wintered: because it was said that Flamminius the consul was come to Aretium: not withstanding that there was a more easy & better way: Yet because it was further about he took the next way over the great perilous fens, where as at that time the river of Arnus had overflowed more higher than in times past, he commanded the spaniards with the Africans, and the most part of the old soldiers with their stuff to go before, lest when they were constrained to stay in any place their necessaries should be wanting: next them he set the frenchmen, because he would have that host in the middle, in whom he had lest trust: last of all he commanded the horsemen to come, giving in charge to Mago with certain of the best Numidians, to come behind, and to bring forth the army, specially the frenchmen, lest that other weariness or fear of the long way, should cause them to stay or to slip away, as they are very faint and fearful people in such business. The first company wallowing in the thick mud and the deep waters, scarcely saving themselves from drowning, followed their standards and guides. The frenchmen that followed them, could neither save themselves from falling: neither when they were down well arise again, neither could their hearts comfort their bodies, nor hope comfort their hearts: some drew their weary members with pain after them. Some other, where they once fell, their hearts being overcome with weariness, were constrained to die. The watch that they suffered four days and iii nights, without any sleep, was the chief cause of their confusion. When they could find no dry place, where they might rest their weary bodies, the water covering all the earth, they heaped their stuff and baggage in the water, one pack on an other, whereupon they rested and saved themselves. The heaps of dead cattle, which were dead in all the way, was in stead of beddis to many that were faint and feeble, which eased them for a little space. Hannibal himself having sore eyes, by reason of the intemperate spring time of the year, that changed now to heat and now to cold, being carried upon an elephant (which only remained) because he should be high from the water: yet through his great watch and cold, and by reason of the fenny air being noisome to his head, and because there was no place nor time to heal him, he lost one of his eyes. And when he had passed the fens, not without great loss both of men and of beasts, as soon as he came to dry ground, he pitched his camp, having certain knowledge by his espies, that the Roman host was about Aretium, a country as pleasant and fertile as was in all Italy.  
¶ The consul was than fierce and cruel, for the joy and the pride of his new office. And he not only little feared the law and dignity of the fathers of the senate, but also he wanted the fear of the immortal God's. Fortune also had nourished this his foolish hardiness with prosperous success, as well in the civil business and affairs at home, as in certain foreign battles: so that it appeared, that he went about all things cruelly and over hastily: neither counselling with the God's, nor with men. And how moche more ready he was to follow his own folly, so much the busyer was Hannibal to provoke and steer him to the same. Wherefore leaving his enemies on the left hand, he went toward Fessula, intending to destroy the fields of Hetruria, where he showed the consul as great waste, destruction, and spoiling of his friends as he might, both by robbing, slaughter, and burning: to th'intent he should thereby the rather be provoked to battle. Flamminius of his own nature was given to be busy, although his enemy would have been quiet and in rest, but when he saw the goods of his friends carried away: and his neighbours bourned before his face: thinking it dishonour unto him, to see Hannibal wander through the mids of Italy, taking his pleasure without any resistance, he determined incontinent to give battle, although many of his men persuaded him, that he should tarry the coming of his fellow the other consul, so that they should with both their counsels and hosts together, proceed unto their enterprise against Annibal: and in the mean time with the horsemen, and light harnessed footmen, to let him from his robbing and destroying the country. But he contrary to the advertisement that was given him, being angry, rushed forth of the counsel house, & quickly caused the banners and standards to be dysplayde, and leapt himself upon his horse: but incontinent the horse suddenly fell, and cast the consul to the earth: which unlucky beginning caused those that were present, greatly to fear the success thereof.   

¶ Of the battle of Trasimenus, with the death of the Consul Flamminius, and many other romans. Cap. xvi.  
ANniball this while destroyed and wasted, by cruel war, all the fields that were between the city of Cortona, and the lake of Trasimenus, thinking the hearts of his enemies the sooner to be moved to redress the injuries of their friends: And they came to a place meet for treason and disobeyed, where as the great lake or fen of Trasimenus did almost join unto the hills of Cortona. There was at that place one only straight and narrow way to enter in, but afterward the fields waxed a little brother and larger: Over that plain the hills arose of a great height. In the same fair and plain place Hannibal pitched his camp, where he only with the africans and spaniards did rest. The rest of the light harnessed men of the army: he brought about the back of the hills. And he disposed the horsemen near to the mouth of the narrow entre, where the hills might secretly cover and hide them: commanding, that as soon as the Romans were once passed the straits, the horsemen should appear at their backs, so that they should be enclosed and hemmed in on all parts, having no way to escape, by reason of the hills and great lake.  
¶ Flamminius' following his enemies, was come about the setting of the son to the lake: And the next day early in the morning, when it was scarcely day light, he with his host were passed the straits. And when his people began to stray abroad into the larger field, they saw all the place before them occupied with their enemies: And than they aper ceive treason both behind them, and over their heads. When Hannibal knowing: his enemies to be enclosed with the lake and hills on the one side, which he desired, and also compassed about with his army on the other side, he gave a sign to his men suddenly, to invade their enemies: which his commandment they anon with all diligence executed, running down from the hill and assailing the Romans on all parts. One thing much amazed the Romans by the sudden and strange change thereof: there arose from the broad lake a mist thick and darker than the hills in appearance, which letted them of the sight and true knowledge of the manner of their enemies invasion. The noise of the sudden affray arose among them, before they perceived themselves to be betrayed and hemmed in: And the battle was begun both before and on both sides, before that they could be put in good array, or take their armour and draw their swords.  
¶ The Consul Flamminius, when all his people were thus oppressed with fear, he himself as a man of great courage and little afraid, ordered his troubled company, and set them in order as well as the time and place would serve him, still exhorting them by all the means he might, to abide and to fight, showing them, that it booted them not to pray and call on their God's, or to make vows them for their deliverance: There was now no way to for them to escape but by strength and hardiness, there was no way than to be made, but with the sword: and the less fear they did take, the less jeopardy and peril should they be in. But the noise was so great, that the words and counsel of their captain could not be heard: And they were so dismayed, that they scarcely knew their standards and places to repair unto. They had scant hearts to draw their weapons: their harness was rather a burden to them than a defence, They might hear moche noise and clamour of those that were wounded, but little could they see. Some fled, and in the fleeing happened to fall into companies of Romans that fought earnestly, and by them were stayed from further fleinge. Some were coming toward the battle, and by the discomfiture of such as they met, which fled away, were discouraged and fled also. But at the last, when they perceived no way to escape, than fell they earnestly to fighting, not keeping order oraray, but by companies, as it happened them to fall together. Than began the battle to be fierce in all parts, and endured almost three hours, and every where very cruel, but most dangerous about the consul. For the strength of the host followed him: And on what so ever part he saw his men in danger, quickly and diligently he rescued them: And he being very valiant, both mightily assailed his enemies, and defended his citizens, until one of Insubria, called Ducarius, knowing both his horse and his face, said to his company: Here is the Consu●●▪ that not long agone confounded our legions, and destroyed both our cities and fields: now shall I send his soul to the company of our friends, that he all ready hath slain: and hytting his horse with the spurs, he ran violently through the thickest of his enemies rout, slaying a squire, which met him unhappyly in the way. And afterward with his spear, ran the Consul through the body, and had spoiled him, had not the strong company of the Roman knights withstand him. After his death began the Romans to flee on all parts, and than neither hills nor lake could let them: they wandered as blind men through the straits and over the rocks, some falling one over an other. And when they could find none other way, they took the next way through the fens, running into the water over head and shoulders, and were for the most part drowned. Thus was the dangerous battles at Trasymenus xu M. Romans were slain in the battle, and ten M. sparkled abroad by divers ways, came came to Rome. A. M. and .v. C. of the Carthaginenses were slain in that battle, and many died after by reason of their wounds, which they had. Hannibal delivered all the prisoners of Italy without ransom, but the Romans he kept in prison. Than commanded he the bodies of his company that were dead, to be dissevered from the other, and buried. He sought the body of Flaminius with great diligence, to have buried it, but he could not find it. When the news of this great slaughter was first known at Rome, the people assembled with great fear and rumour in the market place, gathering into companies, to know the troth thereof. And a little before the son setting, Marcus Pomponius praetor said: With great battle wear overcome: and although the people herd him say no more of certainty, yet by receiving the news one of an other, they filled the hole city with tidingis, that the consul, with a great part of the host, was slain, and that few were left on live, but were other chased abroad, or taken of their enemies. The women chiefly made either great joy for their friends that escaped, or else great sorrow for the death and captivity of them that were slain and taken. It was said, that one woman when she heard suddenly, that her son came home escaped from the battle, for joy died at the gate of the city. And an other, to whom it was showed falsely, that her child was slain, she abode in her house very sorrowful, but when he came home to her suddenly, she at the first sight of him for great joy died. The Pretours kept the Senate for certain days from the son rising, to the son set, counselling what capitains, and what host they might have to withstand the Carthaginenses: but before they had made any certain determination of their business, they had tidings of an other new slaughter, which was, that four thousand horsemen, which were sent by Servilius the other consul to flamminius, under the gouernā●e of one C. Centronius. After they heard of the battle of Trasymenus, they returned back, and in Vmbria were betrayed by Hannibal, and destroyed. Which thing troubled the minds of the people marvelously. They were in great trouble and fear, the consul and head officers being absent, unto whom they scarcely durst send their letters for fear of the Carthaginenses, who were almost spread over all Italy.  
Wherefore they made Quintus Fabius Maximus Prodietator, that was ruler of the commons, and Marcus Rufus Minutius master of the horsemen, to these it was given in charge by the Senate, to establish and make sure the walls and towers of the city, and to fortify such places, as they should think convenient. Also to break the bridges, that were over the waters, and to provide for the keeping of their horses and city, seeing they could not defend Italy.   

¶ How Hannibal by a crafty deceit escaped the straits of Formiana, wherein he was enclosed by Q. Fabius Maximus. Cap. xvii.  
ANniball came in the mean season by Vmbria to Spoletum, destroying and burning all before him. Than began he to lay siege to the town but he was driven thence with great slaughter of his men. Wherefore supposing the city of Rome to be of a great strength, seeing that little town was so strong, whose strength and power he than not very prosperously had assayed, he withdrew his army to the plentiful country of Picenus, and from thence to Pelignes, to Arpos, and to Luceria, a country adjoining to Apulia, still robbing and spoiling the countries abroad in the way as he went.  
¶ When Fabius, whom the Romans had chosen high officer, had set all thing at a stay in Rome, he (taking with him the army, that before was with Servilius the consul, and also ii other new roman legions for the increasing of his army) went with the master of the horsemen Minutius, to meet with Hannibal, and to stay him from the destruction of the country. Fabius committing nothing rashly to fortune by easy journeys and good espies, came into the fields of Arpos, pitching his camp not far from his enemies. Hannibal soon after his coming, brought his people into the fields in good array ready to fight: but Fabius all that day kept his men in their camp, whereupon Hannibal rebuking the feeble courage of the Romans, withdrew his people into their tents, fearing in his mind the soberness of Fabius: which was a captain chosen, far unlike to Sempronius or Flamminius. Nevertheless to prove the fashion and conduct of Fabius, Hannibal very oftentimes removed his camp, and ever spoiled the countries of the friends of the Romans as he went: Sometime he would suddenly convey his army: and than secretly turn out of the way, and lie in await, if by chance he might take his enemies at advantage: but Fabius ever led his host by the high places of the countries still keeping his enemies in sight, so that he would not be far from them: yet intended he not to give them battle, his men went never out of their camp, but only for the provision of things necessary. And when they lacked victuals forage, or wood, he sent a great numbered together, that they might walk surely. And also those that went therefore, he suffered not to stray far from the host. He had ever his horsemen and light harnessed footmen in a readiness and in array, for fear of sudden invasions of his enemies. And also to th'intent they should be ready to oppress his foes, that at any time should rove abroad for spoil or for victuals, he minded never to jeopardy the hole estate of the empire in open battle, but he remained still as a stay to weary his enemies. Which his soberness was no less displeasant to Hannibal, than it was to Minutius, the master of the horsemen. For he being rash, and desirous to put all in adventure, first pryvily, and than openly dispraised the slackness of Fabius, calling him both slow and fearful. Hannibal often removing, came from Arpos to Samnium, wasting the fields of the Beneventanes, and there he took the town of Tilesia, trusting by the show of so much displeasure, to cause Fabius to give him battle. There camme to him the same time three gentlemen of Italy, whom Hannibal had before at the battle of Trasimenus taken prisoners, and delivered to liberty without ransom. These men showed him, that in case he would convey his army into Campania, they would help him with small pain to win the noble city of Capua. To this their motion Hannibal at length agreed, sending them to Capua before him, to steer the minds of the rulers and of the communes thereto, and to return, bringing him the certainty of their speed. Than commanded he his guide to lead him the next way to the field of Cassinus, having knowledge by divers expert men of the same country, that if he were ones master of the hill and straight there, he should stop the Romans from bringing any succours to their men, but that he should at his pleasure destroy them. But the guide mistaking the name of the country, took Casilinus for Casinus. Wherefore leading him a wrong way, he conducted him by the countries of Alifinus, Calatinus, and Calenus, to the fields of Stellates. When Hannibal beheld that country to be on all parts enclosed with mountains and rivers, he inquired of his guide, in what region he than was? He answered again, that the same day he would bring him to Casilinus. Whereat Hannibal being displeased, caused him to be sore beaten with rods, & after hanged for the example of other. Than seeing that he was so far from his purpose, he thought in revenging of his malice, to bourn and spoil that plentiful country about the river of Vulturnus.  
¶ By this time was Fabius come by the hills, to the top of Massicus the mountain: where the romans might behold the Carthaginensis lodged in the fair plains under them, who ceased not to spoil the fields of Falernus, and to burn the houses of Simessa. This displeasure entered earnestly into the heart of Minutius: who above other maligned at the cowardice of the dictator Fabius. And by an oration full of great invectives, set the hartis of the most part of the host against him. But all their murmuring Fabius little esteeming, continued the rest of the summer in his old fashion, ever keeping Hannibal from battle, the thing that he most desired. When the winter began to draw near, Fabius perceiving the country not to be able to sustain the host of his enemies any long season, and that there was none other way for them to pass out of the fields of Falernus, but only by the same straight ways, by which they before had entered, he sending sufficient power of Romans to the hill of Callicula, and the town of Casilinus: himself, with the master of the horsemen, kept the narrow way, by which Hannibal must needs pass. Hannibal willing to prove the manner of keeping of that straight, came thither, and there made a skirmish with the Romans, somewhat to his loss, and was fain to recoil back. And he perceiving the Romans to have the Samnites and the Campanes their friends at their backs, ready to secure them with all necessaries, and that he and his host were so enclosed, that he was like to winter among the stones of Formiana, and the sands of Linterni: he forgot not than to renew his accustomed subtlety and craft. He invented a deceit and mockery, very fearful to men's sight, whereby he might pass the straits by stealth in the night. he caused rotten sticks and dry pieces of wood, to be gathered together in the fields, and faggots of young rods and bows to be made, which he caused to be tied to the horns of oxen and kine, which he had before taken at a pray in the country, some being wild, and some tame. There were ii thousand beasts, that should be thus ordered. And the charge was committed to hasdrubal, that he should in the beginning of the darkness of the night, set the faggots on fire, that were on the horns of the beasts: and than to drive them to the hills and straits, specially above the way, which the Romans kept. Than in the beginning of the night, secretly he caused his men to remove their camp, driving the oxen a little before the standards. but when they came to the foot of the hill, and to the narrow way, he commanded the fagotes on the beasts horns to be set on fire. Which done, the fear of the flaming fire about their heads, and the heat coming to the quick and lower part of the horns of the beasts, caused them to run, as though they had been mad. With which sudden running the young rods took a burning, even as though the woods and hills had been on fire: and the moving of their heads, causing the flame to spread abroad, showed like as it had been men running abroad with fire. When those that were set at the entering of the passage saw the fire on the high hills above them, supposing that they had been betrayed, left the place assigned them to keep, and fiedde to their succours, seeking their best way by the top of the hills, by which the great flame and blaze did shine, where they chanced upon certain oxen strayed from their flock. And when at the first they saw as it were living things, breathing fire and flames, they stood as astonied with the sight. But after, perceiving the craft to be made and conveyed by men, than supposing that there was treason, with great noise and rumour they took them to flight. Fabius also, seeing this mockery, fearing deceit, kept his people within his camp till it was day. Thus in the night, while they were astonied with this strange ●yght, Hannibal passed the strait passage with his host without danger, and pitched his camp in the field of Alifanus.   

¶ Cneius Scipio fighteth with hasdrubal and Himilco on the sea, upon the costs of Spain, driveth them to land, taketh and destroyeth five and twenty ships, with a great number of the Carthaginenses. Capitu. xviii.  
AFter this hard escape out of danger, Hannibal led his army as though he would have gone toward Rome, by the fields of the Samnites, robbing and burning unto the Pelignes, and from thence returned toward Apulia. And Fabius set his tents between the city of Rome and his enemies, neither going from them, nor giving them battle, till in short space after he was called to Rome, for because of the sacrifice that should be done to the God's. Before his departing, he not only exhorted Minutius, master of the horsemen, whom he left with his army, but also straightly commanded him, that he should in no wise have to do with his enemies, for any occasion that should be given him: and that he should better trust to counsel than to fortune: and that he should rather follow his advise, being his capytain, than use the trade of Sempronius and Flaminius, showing the dangers of it by examples. Also he declared to him ●e deceit of their enemies. And when he had given him these exhortations in vain, he departed to Rome.  
¶ In the beginning of summer, whiles those things were done in italy, great war begun in Spain. hasdrubal delivered unto Himilco xl sail, well furnished for the war, and himself with a great numbered of ships, also departed from Carthage, and sailed into Spain, where after he was arrived and landed his host, he set his ships at the shore, near to the land, and pitched his camp on the land, being ready to fight with his enemies, where so ever he found them on land or water. Scipio, after he came from the wintring, thought to have gone on his enemies upon the land, but when he heard of their succours, that were come to them, he durst not meet them on land, but chose a numbered of good soldiers, and made ready xxxv sail for to meet them on the water, thinking to assail them suddenly, ere they should be able to ordain all thing for their defence. When hasdrubal had knowledge of their coming, by reason of high towers made in divers places of Spain, from whence they may see far of on the sea, there arose a great noise and fear among his host in their tents. for such as were on the land, and thought little to have had battle that day: He commanded to make haste to their ships, which they did obey, and himself came hastily after. And when they came to the water, the soldiers so troubled the shipmen, and the shipmen the soldiers, that none of them could array themselves, and set in order things necessarily for their business. Whiles this rumour lasted, the Romans not only were at hand, but also ready to fight. The Carthaginenses no more troubled with their enemies than with their own rumour, were shortly overcome and fled: and at the first conflict the Romans took two ships, and drowned four And although the Romans saw all the shore occupied with men of arms, yet were they not afeard, but followed their enemies ships fleeing, in so much that of xxx sail they took and destroyed xxv And with this great prey went again to the sea, and landed at Tarracon, where Scipio tarried not long, but that his brother P. Scipio arrived there also, sent by the senate with a great navy, to the numbered of xxxv ships, and viii M. soldiers, with great store of stuff and ordinance.  
¶ When the two brethren were associate together, there was nothing that did withhold the wills and hearts of the people of Spain from the friendship of the Romans, saving they feared the trespass should be revenged on their chyldernes blood, which were left as pledges by Hannibal at Sagunt.   

¶ How Acedux, a spaniard, by treason conveyed the pledg●● of Spain fro the Carthaginenses, and delivered them to the Romans. Ca nineteen.  
THan was there in Sagunt a noble spanyard, called Acedux, who before that time had been very faithful to the Carthaginenses: but than (as it is the fashion of many of the common sort of men) when fortune failed, his faith likewise changed. He imagined with himself, what way he might best attain the friendship of the Romans. After many sundry imaginations, he thought soonest to bring it about, if he might find the means, to deliver them those noble men's children, which were left at Sagunt as pledges and sureties. For by that means he thought the Romans might best win the hartis of the pricis of Spain. But this enterprise he thought he could not compass, unless he might obtain the favour of one Bostar, who lay encamped without the city upon the shore of the river, with a good numbered of Spaniards, for the sure keeping of the city, and to stop the Romans the entry that way from the haven, without whose commandment he knew well the keepers of the pledges would nothing do. Than Acedux thought with craft to assay Bostar, and went to the camp where he lay, desiring secretly to speak with him: And first he began to show him the danger that the country was in, considering the strong army of the Romans, which was than at hand. He showed him also, that the Spaniards had so long continued in the petition of the Carthaginenses, for fear more than for love. And all by cause the Roman army was so far from them: but now sins they were come over Iberus, it was to be feared, lest they would all yield themselves unto Scipio. Wherefore he desired him to work wisely therein.  
¶ When Bostar demanded of him, what he would have him to do for remedy thereof, he answered: I would advise you, to send the children of the noble men, whom ye have as pledges in this town, to their parent's friends and cities: so shall ye get all their hearts and loves by this kindness showing, which ye can never get with fear. For when they find, that ye put trust in them, ye shall the more bind them to be faithful. And I myself will gladly take the pain to deliver again the pledges to their friends: and so work, that I will get their hearts to you much more than ye now have. Bostar, meaning all truth and plainness, was anon persuaded to the same purpose, and granted him the conduit of the sureties. Than went Acedux privyly to Scipio his tents, and there declared unto him the good will that he bore toward him and the Romans: And appointed with him the time and place of deliver of the pledges. Than went Acedux again to Bostar, of whom he received special commandements and tokens to the keepers of the pledges, to go with him, taking with them the pledges, when he would require them. Than showed he the keepers of the children, that he would departed from the city in the night, to th'intent the better to escape the danger of the watches of the Roman host. Wherefore he willed them to be ready to ride with him, when he called on them at an hour certain in the night following: They as innocentes in the matter, made all things ready to depart at the hour appointed, at which hour he failed not to come. Thus departed he from the city, both with the children and also their keepers, and ●re they were ware, he led them among a numbered of Romans, that by his crafty appointment were laid in imbus●hementes for the same purpose: where they were all taken, and brought to Scipio, who delivered the pledges to their cities and friends: whereby he gate the love of the more part of the cities in Spain: so that they were ready to take armour to the aid of the Romans, when so ever Scipio commanded them. These things were done in Spain, the second year of the battle between the Carthaginenses and the Romans.   

¶ Fabius' being at Rome in displeasure. Minutius master of the horsemen fighteth with Annibal, putteth him to the worse, & therefore is made half ruler of the host with Fabius, he fighteth with him again, & is put to flight, & rescued by Fabius, Ca xx.  
Now let us return to Fabius, who by his wise abstaining from battle had saved many of the Romans from death: Never the less it was thought at Rome by many, that his heart failed him, and that he trifled forth the time, only to th'intent his empire and rule might the longer continue, and that he cared not, what cost the city were at, infynding so great an army, so that he might be at rest with honour. Thus had he gotten many enemies at Rome. And to increase their malice toward him, Hannibal wrought a marvelous subtlety: he sent a numbered of his men to spoil the country, and commanded them in any wise to do no hurt to the lands of Fabius: of which he gate the knowledge by certain that were fled to him from the Roman army. This did he, to the intent it should be thought, that some secret bargain or conspiracy was made between him and Fabius. Which crafty act of Hannibal caused Fabius to be the more suspect tooth senate of Rome. But to take away that suspection from him, Fabius sent his son, and sold the ground or fields, which were not violated by Hannibal's subtlety. Now fortuned it also to increase Fabius evil will at Rome, that after his departing from the host, Minutius, the master of the horsemen, being left to guide the army, caused the camp and tents, which were by Fabius set safe in the high hills, to be brought down and pitched in the low valleys: And there they were disposed after the discretion of the captain, thinking either to make a skirmish with them that went abroad to rob, or else to invade them that were left behind in the tentis  
¶ Hannibal, knowing that he should keep war with a captain moche unlike the other, and that his enemies would order their business more quickly than wisely, and perceiving his enemies to draw more near unto him: he sent the third part of his soldiers to rob and waste the countries, the other ii parts he kept within their tents. Than removed he his camp more near to the Romans, & abode upon a certain hill, where as the Roman host might pceive, that they were ready to secure their robbers, if any assault were made on them. This did he of purpose, to entice the Romans to battle. Than could Minutius no longer forbear, but sent a good number of horsemen, to assail the robbers, who destroyed many of them that were sparkled abroad seeking their prey. Than came Annibal to the rescue of his men. But fortune so served the Romans, that as they wer● most busy in fight: One Numerius Decimus, a capytain of the Samnites came to the succour of the Romans with viii. M. footmen, & ii C. horsemen, by whose help they bet Hannibal to his camp & slew vi M. of his men. which glad tidings Minutius (although he had lost in the same battle v. M. of his own men, sent in his boasting letters to Rome, wherewith the city was much comforted. Not withstanding Fabius (when all the city was merry, would neither believe the news, nor the letters. At the last he said, if all were true, he rather feared their prosperous adventure, than rejoiced therein. Which saying caused him greatly to be hated of the citizens, & Marcus Metellus openly rebuked Fabius therefore, saying, that he kept his men in their camps, more like captives and prisoners, than men of war. Specially it was not to be suffered that he being present, would not only suffer nothing to be done valiantly against his enemies, but now also being absent, held against the thing that was well done by his master of horsemen. Fabius' answered but few words, for he thought they should be evil hard: but he said, that where ii years past, the city had sustained great harms and loss through the foolish hardiness of the governors, he doubted not, but if he might bear rule and have his mind, he would make it evident to all men, that fortune could little do or work against a good captain: but that wisdom & reason should have the dominion over all her chances. He said further, that he had saved his host from a cruel enemy, in all this perilous time without harm or shame: which he thought, aught more to be praised, than to kill a great numbered of enemies. But in conclusion, the determination of the senate was, that M. Attilius Regulus should be consul in the plabe of Flamminius: And that Minutius, the master of the horsemen (who so nobly had governed his army) should be half ruler of the host with Fabius, & the governance thereof to be parted between them.  
¶ With these displeasant acts of the senate Fabius returned to his army, trusting, that although Minutius should have half the rule with him, yet should he want the policy and manner of ordering his part of the army to him committed: which policy by exercise and great tranayle he had obtained. Minutius perceiving himself to be had in such estimation at Rome, as well with the senators as with the commons, where he was before a little proud, he than began to take much more on him, boasting himself, that in their great calamity, he alone was found out a captain able to match Hannibal. And than began he to devise of the parting of their empire or rule. He would have had it so parted, that one day or one week he should have ruled all: And one other day or week, Fabius to rule all, and so to take the hole governance by turn. That would Fabius none of: but would have the army parted between them, with the ordinances and other necessaries. Saying, that in case he could not by his counsel save the hole host: yet he would assay to save the half thereof, as well as he might. And on that point they agreed, and thereupon divided their companies or legions, and also their camps. This debate and order of the roman captains was known to Hannibal by espies, as were all other things that were done in the tents of his enemies, which tidings brought to him double joy. One was, for that he thought to vanquish the foolish hardiness of Minutius even as he would himself. The other was, for that half the strength of Fabius was diminished, by reason of the parting of the host. than was there a hill between the host of Hannibal, and the host of Minutius, which hill who so ever had gotten, should be able to do moche displeasure to his enemies. Annibal desired not so much to take it without battle (although the occupation thereof should be to him very necessary) as to make it an occasion of battle to Minutius: whom, he witted well, would ever run to withstand his enterprise in the attaining thereof. A field there was in the middle between him and the said hill, which field was very plain and fair, and appeared moche unmeet for treason, to hide any embushement in, because it was neither covered with wood, shrubs, nor bushes. It seemed therefore a place rather meet to descry treason than to hide it, for that in a plain and bare valley no such deceit might be feared. But than Hannibal espied, that in the bottom of the said hill were divers caves and hollow places in the rocks, of which some were able to receive and hide ii C. soldiers armed. In these dark caves Hannibal hid .v. M. footmen and horsemen: not withstanding lest the noise or the brightness of the harness might happen to discover his disobeyed, he sent a few in numbered the next morning to take the foresaid hill, whereby he withdrew the eyes of his enemies from looking to that place of embusshement. When the company that went to the hill, were apperceived by the Romans, to be so few in numbered, they set nought by them, and every man coveted to go to drive their enemies from that hill. And also the capitain no less foolish than they, called his men to harness, threatening his enemies with vain words. first he sent light harnessed young men: than he sent forth horsemen, which were a great company: last of all, himself cometh with his hole army. And as Hannibal saw occasion, and the battle increase, he sent ever of his men both footmen and horsemen, to secure his people, so that the battle was furnished on both parts, and waxed very strong. The Romans were thought to be of a great boldness and courage, and should have done well, if the battle had been equally handled, they were so encouraged with their late victory: but suddenly came those that were hid in the caves forth on them, making great clamour and rumour on their sides and backs, so that they surprised with fear, had neither hearts to fight, nor hope to fly. Than Fabius first hearing the noise, and after seeing the host troubled afar of: Fortune (said he) hath caught their folly, no sooner than I feared it would: now he that is joined with Fabius in the empire, hath found Hannibal overhard for him, both in power and also in Fortune. But it is not now time (said he) to chide, I will refer that, till more opportunity. Than caused he his men to display their banners beyond the valley, and in good array came forward to the help of his fellows, that some were fled, and some ready to flee, so that they all thought, that he came as it were one sent from heaven to their succours. And before he should come to the casting of darts or to handestrokes, Hannibal called back his men from chasing any further their enemies that fled, and suddenly withdrew him to his camp, saying, that he had overcome Minutius, but that he was also overcome of Fabius. Than many of the Roman army, that by fleeing were scattered and sparkled abroad, ran to the host of Fabius: many other that did flee before their enemies, turned again to their company: so that there was almost one battle of them that were overcome, and of them that ran to their succours. When the most part of the day was spent under the variable standard of Fortune, and that the hosts were come to their own tents, Minutius (his soldiers being gathered about him, said:  ¶ I have oftentimes, loving soldiers and friends, heard 
Minutius oration.  say, that he is most wise, that can give counsel, and tell what is to be done in his business. And that he is next wise, that can obey him that giveth good counsel: but he that can not her give good counsel himself, nor obey other men's counsel, is of all other most abject and foolish. Now therefore, seeing that the first of these gifts fortune hath denied us, let us keep the second, and whiles we learn to rule, let us purpose with ourselves to obey them that be wise. Wherefore let us join our tents with Fabius: And when ye shall hear me salute him as my parent and father, you likewise shall salute his soldiers as your noble patrons, by whose strength and hardiness this day ye were preserved. 
¶ Thus incontinent they removed their camp, and went to the camp of Fabius, whereof he marveled not a little. When the two legions were met together, and salutations had, after long protestation made by Minutius to Fabius, they took either other by the hands, and the soldiers likewise entertaining gently the one the other. There Minutius submitted him and his men to be under the protection of Fabius, resigning clean the authority of the empire and rule into his hands, which he accounted to be to him a burden rather than an honour: desiring him that he might be again in the office of the master of horsemen, as he was before. When this was known at Rome, and affirmed to be true, not only by the letters of the captains, but also of the soldiers of both partis, the praise of Fabius was elevate to the heavens, and he had no less praise of Annibal and his host who as than felt, that they had to do with the Romans, and that they kept war in Italy. For the two years past, they so little did esteem both the capitain of Rome, and also the soldiers, that they could scarcely believe, that they fought with those people, whom they had heard of their fathers, were so moche to be doubted. And it was said, that Hannibal going from the battle did say, that than at the length the cloud, which sat so long on the high hills, sent down his perilous storm.   

¶ Of Lucius Aemilius Paulus, and C. Terentius Varro consuls, and the oration of Q. Fabius Maximus to Paulus, before his departing from Rome, toward his host. Capitulo. xxi.  
NOt long after, Lucius Aemilius Paulus, and C. Terentius Varro were chosen consuls. And after that all other officers were chosen, the army was augmented, to every legion a thousand footmen, and one hundred horsemen. What the numbered was of the new host is scarcely agreed among writers. Some hold, that they were of the Romans lxxxvii M. CC. when the battle was holden at Cannas. C. Terentius, before he departed the city, openly made divers orations, wherein he declared, that the war in Italy was through certain of the noble men of the city, which war should long time continue among them, if they should have many such captains as Q. Fabius was. For if he had done his devoir as a good capitain, Hannibal had been subverted long before. but he promised, that he would end the war the same day that he should first meet with his enemy. And the next day before they departed out of the city, Lucius Aemilius his fellow made also one Oration to the people, which was more true than thankful unto the citizens: In the which he spoke nothing against Terentius Varro his fellow, but that he marveled, how any capitain being in the city, should know, what he should do when he were armed in the field, before he knew other his own host, or a good numbered of men to gettethem come and cattle. but as they roved abroad unadvisedly, the Romans invaded them, and slew a. M. and vii C. of them, with the loss of. C. of their men. Than would the Romans have followed the rest in the chase, had not Paulus the consul commanded the contrary, whose turn was to rule the host that day. For it was before agreed between them, to govern the army, the one, one day, and the other, the next day, and so by turn. Than were the soldiers very angry toward Paulus, saying to Varro their capitain, that if he had not letted them, they had not failed to have beaten Hannibal from his camp, and also out of italy. Hannibal was not so sorry for the loss of his men, as he was glad, that the Romans were in such delight and joy of their small victory. Wherefore he esteemed the angry consul to beredy to take any bait that he would lay for him.   

¶ Of the perilous battle of Cannas, and the victory that Hannibal had there of the Romans. Cap. xxii.  
THe next night he removed his host on the further side of a great hill, near adjoining, There he set his footmen in array on the left hand: on the right he set his horsemen: all the carriage he put in the mids between them. He left his camp stored with moche stuff and baggage, to the intent that when the Romans were busy in spoiling the tents, he would suddenly and unwares oppress them. And to cover his craft the better, he made great fires about the camp, before he went, that it should be thought, that they would not have the Romans ware of their stealing away, till they were passed far out of their danger. And as he thought to beguile, so had it happened in deed, had not Paulus stayed his men from running thither in such haste: and also had not two prisoners, which were taken before by the Carthaginenses, escaped the same morning, who came to the Consuls, and declared unto them, that the holle army of the Carthaginenses abode in array on the other side of the hill, ready to battle. When Hannibal perceived his device to be known, he returned again to his tents, where he tarried but a short space for lack of victuals, and for bareynnes of the country. Wherefore he returned toward the country of Naples, a more warm and plentiful country, pitching his camp near unto Cannas. In pytchyug of which his camp, he wisely considered the wind to be in the north east, that naturally in dry ground driveth the powder and dust into the air, making it troublous dark and cloudy. Wherefore he so encamped himself, that his back was toward the wind, to the intent when he should have to do with his enemies, the dust should blind their eyes, so that they should be much hindered thereby. The consuls following the Carthaginenses were come to Cannas: And when they apperceived their enemies in their sight, they pitched their camps, every Consul by himself, and divided their armies to every consul his part. There was a river called Aufidus, rounning beside both Camps, at the which both the hosts, not without fighting and skyrmysshing as they had time and space watered their horses and cattle. Hannibal liking the place well for the horsemen to fight in, wherein rested his most trust and chief strength, thought to provoke the consuls to battle, and to stir them thereto, he came toward them in good array, and caused the horsemen to run to and fro almost to the tents of the Romans, bidding them base. By reason whereof, there arose great discord among the Roman host, and the consuls also. For Paulus, not minding to fight with them at their pleasures, did object unto Varro, the foolish hardiness and lack of discretion of Sempronius and Flamminius. Varro contrary wise laid unto him the example of Fabius, whom he reckoned among the fearful and slow captains, professing to the God's, and also to men, that it ought not to be laid unto him, if Hannibal should take italy, and hold it as his own: saying that he, and also his soldiers, being most desirous to fight, were withholden therefrom by his fellow. Paulus likewise professed, if any evil did happen to them and to their soldiers, that he would be clear and innocent of the trespass, saying on foot, the wing of the Numidian horsemen, whereof hasdrubal was capitain, joined also with the Romans right wing of horsemen. The battle was strong on both parts, but the Carthaginenses used great subtlety, for at the first encounter about .v. C. of the Numidian horsemen, having swords secretly hid under their harness, besides those that they did use to occupy, turning their targets behind their backs, making as though they had forsaken their host and fled from their company, ran to their enemies, and leaping besides their horses, cast their swords and other apparent weapons at the feet of the Romans, as yielded persons, whereupon they were received first into the middle of the Roman host, and anon they were brought to the utter and hyndermost ward, and there commanded to stand till the end of the battle. And when the battle began on all parts, they stood still without fighting, but after when they saw that every man was busied and occupied with fight, than drawing forth their swords from under their harness, they took the sheldes of them that were slain in the field, and rushed on the backs of the Romans, and so hewing on their backs and hams behind, they made a great slaughter. And whiles that some part conceived fear and fled, and some other maintained the battle with small hope of victory, hasdrubal sent a great part of the Numidians to chase and destroy the Romans as they fled. Paulus the consul, although he was deadly wounded before, yet many times with his company restored and renewed the battles, with the help of the Roman horsemen, who at length alighted from their horses, and fought on foot, the consul for feebleness and bleeding, being not able to govern his horse. Than the Carthaginenses, seeing that their enemies had rather die in the field, than flee: incontinent slew those that they could not make to flee: some they took, and the other that were overcome, being than sparkeled abroad, took such horses as they could get, and began to flee. C, Lentulus a Tribune, leading an empty horse in his hand, as he fled saw Paulus the consul, fitting on a stone, all covered with blood, to whom he said: Lucius Aemilius, whom the God's should take and esteem as innocent of this cruel slaughter, take this horse, whiles any strength is left within thee, And I being thy friend, shall lift the up, and keep the on, lest thou make this battle doleful and sorrowful through the death of a consul, without which verily there is cause of weeping and mourning enough. Whereunto the consul answered: C. Cornelius, be thou increased in virtue, but beware lest whiles thou dost bewail this chance, thou have small time to escape thyself: Go thou therefore, and bid the senate, that they make strong the walls of Rome, and strength it with succours, before the conqueror come: And secretly show unto Quintus Fabius, that Lucius Aemilius Paulus doth firmly remember his precepts, ye and liveth in them, and finally dieth in them. And I pray thee, suffer me to pass the life among these company of my dead knights, lest by lengar living, I become an accuser of my fellow, defending mine innocency by the trespass of an other, and yet at length die, taken as fauty of this deed.  
¶ The company of them which fled, trod the Consul under foot, and after his enemise, not knowing who he was, did overpress him. There was slain at that battle forty thousand footmen, and two thousand and seven hundred horsemen, in which company was slain one of the consuls, with four score Senators, and such as had borne great office in the city, which voluntaryly gave themselves to that battle. Furthermore xxi that had borne office of Tribunes, besides that in that battle were taken iii thousand footmen, and iii hundred horsemen. Of the Romans that escaped by fleinge vii thousand came into the smaller camp, and ten M. fled to the greater camp. And when the battle was finished, those Romans that were returned to the greater camp, sent to the other, which were in the less camp, to repair unto them in the night, while their enemies, being weary of travail, and joyful of their victory, were given to take their rest, but they doubted to take on them that enterprise, saying, that it were as meet that they of the great camp should come to them: but that for the danger of passing the host of their enemies they were afeard so to do. Thus the most refused to go out of the camp, not withstanding such as were hardy and valiant, by the great & noble exhortation of P. Sempronius Tuditanus, a tribune, issued out, & came through their enemies in the night with their sheldes on the right side toward the host of the Carthaginenses: whereby they passed by them, receiving the arrows and darts that were shot at them, upon their said shields: and so came to the great camp, to the number of iii. M. vi. C. and from thence, taking with them money of the other of that company, escaped at their pleasure to Cannusium. The other consul, with l horsemen, fled to Venusia.   

¶ How Hannibal ordered his business after the battle, and how young Scipio used himself, for the saving of the comen wealth. Capit. xxiii.  
THe battle thus ended, divers of the army came to Hannibal, and willed him to rest all that day, and the night after his great labour: but maharbal was therewith nothing contented, saying: You should now incontinent with your horsemen, follow the Romans to Rome in such speed, that they shall know ye be already come, before they hear of your coming: And thus doing, the conclusion will be, that within five days ye shall like a conqueror dine in the capitol of Rome. Than said Hannibal: The way is long, and we had need of counsel or we undertake so great an enterprise. At length he allowed the heart and noble courage of maharbal: but he said, he would deliberate upon that enterprise. Than answered maharbal: The God's have not given all things to one man: thou canst well overcome thine enemies, Hannibal, but when the victory is given to thee, thou canst not use it. And it was thought, that the same one days rest and slackness, was the cause of the safeguard of the city of Rome, and also of all the whole empire.  
¶ Hannibal, after that he had rested the first night, sent his people to the field, to see whether any of their enemies should revive again, and as they saw or perceived any like to recover, he was incontinent slain: and he proceeded and took the camps, and all them that were in them. Wherein was a great numbered of men, for being afraid to follow their company, they remained still in their camps. And he was contented, that the captines should be ransomed, every one after his degree, the Romans iii C. pieces of silver: other that came to their succours and of Italy. two: C. and their servants for i C. Which money being once paid for their redemption, they should have liberty to go to their countries. This done, he caused the dead bodies of his own host to be searched and buried, which were to the numbered of viii M. among which he caused the body of the consul to be buried.  
¶ There was a certain woman of a noble kindred called Busa, which succoured the Romans that were fled to Cammusium, both with meat, drink, cloth, and other necessaries, for which deed, the war being finished, she was had with the Romans in great honour. There were that timein Cannusium four Tribunes, which were Fabius Maximus the younger, and Lucius P. Bibulus. P. Cornelius Scipio, and Appius Claudius Pulcher, they all, by the assent also of the other soldiers, gave the whole rule and governance of the whole company of the Romans, which were there, to P. Scipio, being than very young, and to Appius Claudius: To whom, when they were consulting among other for the profit of the common wealth, P. Furius Philius said, that their counsel was but in vain, for to restore and bring again that, which was utterly lost: And that the common wealth was desert and clean subverted: advising the noble young men to follow the purpose of Lucius Cecilius Metellus, and to take him as their governor, who was ready, with many other with him, to departed the city in haste, taking their ships, which were purposely ordained for them, and by the sea to flee over to some prince or king for succour. Which cruel counsel suddenly given after their great loss and misfortune, made them very fearful and in great doubt what they should do: in so much that many, being there present, thought to deliberate on the matter. Which deliberation young Scipio (elect by destiny to finish the same wars against the Carthaginenses) denied and despised. We must (saith he) be bold, and valiantly enterprise things in so great a mischief, and not stand long consulting upon them. Wherefore he commanded, that so many as would have the common wealth safe, should go with him armed. And than he with a few following him, went to Metellus lodging, where finding an assemble of young men in conjuration upon the dyvise of Furius Philus, before declared, he held his naked sword over their heads, and said: With my whole mind and will, I swear that I shall never leave the common wealth of the city of Rome, nor shall suffer any citizen of Rome to leave it. And if I willingly be false, than I pray the mighty and omnipotent jupiter, to destroy my house, my family, and all my goods, with most vilest destruction. Which oath I require of the Lucius Cecilius, and of all other that are here present. And he that will not swear the same, let him know, that my naked sword shall pass through him. All they being no less feared with his words, than if Hannibal had been present, took the same oath, and committed themselves to the tuition of Scipio.  
¶ While these things were done at Cannusium, there were gathered together about iii M. horsemen and footmen, and were come to Venusia, where the consul Varro was, with which company the consul came to Cannusium, and having so great a numbered about him, thought himself able to defend themselves and the city from Hannibal.  
¶ Of this great loss in the battle news was brought to Rome, without any mention of saving of the said number, that were with the consul: but that every man was slain, and no Roman left on live. Which news caused as great fear and rumour in the city, as ever was heard there before: In so much that it was bruited abroad, that neither capitain nor soldier was left in the Roman camps, and that almost all Italy was yielded to Hannibal. Wherefore they looked every hour, when their enemies would come to besiege the city of Rome. whereupon the senators prepared at Rome all things necessary for the succours of the city. Than they ordained their legions and officers. Marcus junius, by the whole consent of the Senate, was chosen Dictator, and Titus Sempronius master of the horsemen. There was also by the same authority chosen. 4. legions, and a thousand horsemen of young men, of the age of xvii years, besides that they sent to their friends in other places of italy, that they also should prepare soldiers of the same sort, with horse, harness, and all other necessaries.  
¶ The city thus being in extreme fear, letters came from the Consul Terentius to Rome, certifyenge the Senate of the loss of the battle, and of his fellow the other Consul. And how he with the leavings of the host, that escaped at the battle, were at Cannusium, to the numbered of ten thousand men. Which news somewhat comforted the hearts of the citizens.  
¶ How let us return to Hannibal, who being busied about his prisoners, suffered ten of the roman captives, in the name of all the other, to go to Rome, to see if the father's conscript, or any of their friends would redeem them, and their company that were prisoners: desiring of these ten messengers none other sureties for their return, saving their oath. With whom he sent a noble baron of Carthage, to the intent, that if it should hap them to entreat of peace, he might bring the conditions thereof with him: The price of the redemption of a Roman horseman was five hundred pieces of silver, called Quadrigati, so named for that the coygne bare in it the print of a charyote: The price of a Roman citizen was three hundred: the price of a servant was one hundred. All other prisoners of Italy, that camme to the help of the romans, he let go free to their countries without ransom. And when it was showed the council, that they were come to Rome, a messenger met this baron of Carthage, whose name was Carthabo, and showed him, that the Dictator commanded, that he should departed from the bounds of Rome, before the night.  
¶ soon after the Senate or parliament was holden for the captives messengers, where one of them, that was of most authority, thus began to say & openly pronounce his oration.   

¶ The oration of the captive prisoners made to the senate for their redemption. Cap. xxiiii.  
IT is not unknown to you all (Father's conscript) that there was never more wretched & vile prisoners to any city, than have been to this our city. Hot withstanding unless we stand very much in our own conceit, there were never Romans taken prisoners in war, which were less worthy to be despised unto you than we be now. For truly we did not yield up our harness and weapons in battle, for fear as cowards, but when it drew toward night, standing upon heaps of dead bodies, we withdrew from the battle, and went to our tents, where as we being both weary with labour, and sore wounded, kept ourselves in safeguard the residue of the day and night following. The next day, when we perceived that we were enclosed and constrained with the host of our enemies, wanting also water, and seeing no hope of escaping through the thick host and company of our enemies, and considering that it were wisdom, and not sounding to dishonour, seeing that fifty thousand were slain of our company, that some should be left of our souldy ours at this battle alive: We than in conclusion agreed with them for our ransom, that we might be delivered. And than we yielded up our weapons, which could little prevail us. We have heard, that our elders were redeemed from the frenchmen, ye and our father's being most fires and hardy, were glad to send to Tarent for conditions of peace, because of redeeming their captives, but in italy with the frenchmen, and at Heracleam with Pyrrhus, both the battles were accounted wretched and full of infamy, because of the cowardice and fleeing of our people, but so was it not with us. The dead bodies do oversprede the fields at Cannas, neither had we escaped the death, but that for our enemies, for wearynes in killing and slaying, lacked both strength and weapons. There be many of us, which never came to battle, but being left to keep the camp; when the tents were yielded, they likewise came under subjection to their enemies. Verily I do not envy the estate or fortune of any citizen, or of my fellow in war neither would I, that my fame should be extolled and raised by the infamy of other: but truly they ought to have little reward or praise, unless it be of the agility and swyftenes of their feet, which being unarmed for the most part fleinge from battle, never ceased till they came to Venusia or Cannusium: yet do they prefer themselves before us justly and not without a cause, as they think. Ye and they rejoice and boast, that there remaineth in them more succour and help to the common wealth than in us. But we would ye should receive and take them as good and strong men. And also to think us to be hereafter more prompt and willing to maintain our country, by how much we may be redeemed and restored into the same by your benefits. Ye have taken the muster of all your people of alages and sorts, and I here say, ye have chosen viii thousand of your bondmen to the war, and there is of us no less a numbered, neither will our redeeming cost any more than their buying will cost. Truly if I should compare them, being servants and bond, unto us citizens and free, I should greatly dishonour the name of Rome. But this I would ye should remember father's conscript, in such a council, if ye will be so hard hearted, as to refuse us (which if you do, you shall do without our deserving) to which of our enemies will ye commit us: to Pyrrhus? or else to Hannibal? in whom it is hard to be judged, whether doth remain more cruelty or avarice. If ye did see the bands and chains, with which your citizens are bound, the filthiness and deformity that they are in: certes it would no less move and pity you, than if ye saw your legions lying dead, covering the fields of Cannas. Ye may behold the sorrow, the heaviness, and the tears of our friends and kinsfolk standing at the porch of the senate, tarrying for your answer. And since they be so sorrowful for us and for them that be absent in prison, what minds would you suppose those prisoners to have, whose life and liberty is in doubt, and hangeth now in balance? Certainly if Hannibal, contrary to his own nature, would be meek and gentle to us, yet never the less would not we desire to live, in case we shall be thought of you, our noble fathers, unworthy to be redeemed. Should I desire the return into my country, if being a citizen I should not be esteemed by you worth iii C. pieces of silver? Let every man do as he will father's conscript, I know my body and life to be in doubt: but the jeopardy of our name and fame both more move and grieve me, that we should be reckoned unto you as abjects and casts away. for there is no man that will suppose you to spare our redemption for cost.  
¶ When he had made an end of his oration, there arose a great noise and weeping among the people, both men and women, that were friends unto the said captives, who held their hands toward the Senators, desiring them to restore their brethren and children. After many and diverse contrary opinions had in the senate: some supposing it meet, that they should be redeemed with the common treasure, and some contrary. T. Manlius Torquatus, a man of over hard and cruel nature (as it was thought to many) being desired to show his sentence and judgement, began thus to say.   

¶ The sore answer of T. Manlius Torquatus to the captives oration, wherein he dissuaded their redemption. Cap. xxv.  
IF the legates, that were sent hither for the redemption of our captives, had all only made petition for those, who are taken prisoners, that they might be restored, I would have showed my mind briefly, without rehearsal of any of their feats, for of what ought you rather to be admonished, than to observe the custom, left by your fathers, as concerning business of war by example necessary. But now, because they almost rejoice and glory, that they yielded themselves to their enemies, and think it meet they should be preferred not only before those, which were taken prisoners in battle, but also before those that escaped to Venusia and Cannusium, ye and before Terentius Varro the consul: I shall declare unto you father's conscript all that was done there, ye and I would to the God's, that these things, which I am about to show unto you, might speak at Cannusium before the host. Which would be a sure witness of every man's cowardice and sluggysshenes, and also of their hardiness and virtue: or else I would that Publius Sempronius were here present, whom if they had followed, they had be now in save guard in the Roman tents, and not captives with their enemies. For when their enemies were weighed of fighting, and also rejoicing of their victory, and the most part of them returned to their tents: they might have had the night free without interruption to have escaped. verily vii thousand armed men might then have escaped through their enemies, taking so little heed to them, but truly neither would they enterprise this thing themselves, nor follow them that would take on them that adventure. All the night long almost Sempronius ceased not to admonish and exhort them, that they should follow him as their capitain, whiles there were but few of their enemies about their tents, whiles every man was at rest & silence, and whiles the night did cover and hide their purpose: Showing them, that they should come into safeguard, and to their friends before the day, as by the memory of our grandfathers, Publius Decius did in Samnio, and as Calphurnius Flamma, when we were but young men, did in the first wars Punic, to iii hundred that willingly followed him. When he had brought them to take a hill which was in the middle of their enemies: Let us here die soldiers (said he) and let us through our death deliver our legions and army, which are enclosed and besieged by our enemies. If Publius Sempronius had spoken such words to you, and if none of you had been of such hardiness to consent to him, he might have supposed you neither to be men, nor Romans: but he showed you a moche more easy way, which would bring you as well to glory and praise, as to health and profit. He made himself a capitain and guide to bring you to your country to your fathers, to your wives, and children: But you lacked audacity to follow him, what would you have done, if he would have moved you to have died for your country? Fifty thousand citizens, and of your friends lay dead about you that day in the field. If the examples of hardiness and virtue of so many noble men, would not move you, there is nothing that ever shall move you? If such slaughter of your friends doth not cause you to have small estimation of your own lives, nothing shall ever move you thereto? You should have desired your country, whiles ye were free, safe and sound, yea you should have desired it, whiles it was your country, now do ye desire it to late. Ye be clean separate from it. ye are utterly alienate from the right of the citizens. Ye are now made servants unto the Carthaginenses. will ye be redeemed srome thence whither you willingly went with cowardice, slowenes and wickedness? you would not here Sempronius your citizen commanding you to take harness and to follow him. but soon after you heard Hannibal, commanding you to yield your armour and your tents? Why do I accuse (Fathers conscript) their slothfulness and cowardice, when I may rather accuse their wicked and abominable fact? they did not only refuse his counsel which was profitable: but also they went about to withstand him, and to constrain him to forsake the common wealth: unless noble men with their naked swords had put them from their purpose. Publius Sempronius was driven (I say) first to escape by manful courage through those his fellows and citizens, and after through the middle of his enemies. And should this city and country desire the restitution of such citizens, whom if the residue of their fellows, who were at Cannas, had followed and been like there had no citizen been left us of those, which were at the battle? of vii M. men there were vi C. that adventured to escape and return free with armour to their country, neither did the host of their enemies, which were xl. M. men let or hinder them: how safe than might the two armies being joined together have passed think you? which if they had done father's conscript, ye should have had now twenty M. strong and hardy soldiers at Cannusium. but now how can these be accounted for good and faithful citizens (as for bold they will not call themselves) which had rather to lie lurking in their tents, and tarry both the day and their enemies, than to endeavour themselves with their company to escape away in the night? but seeing that their hearts would not serve them to avoid their tents, was it like (trow ye) that they should have hardiness to conserve & keep the same tents? They say, that where they were besieged for certain days and nights they defended themselves, and at the length, when they had suffered the extremity, when all the necessaries to their life did fail them, than they being overpressed with hunger, could no longer sustain battle. And they say they were rather overcome for lack of human necessities than with battle. This great war that ye speak of, lasting two days, was ended in two hours. Annibal came to the tents before the son arose to whom without any battle given or resistance made, they yielded up their weapons and themselves. When they should have fought in the battle, they fiedde to their camp, and when they should have defended their camp, they neither profitable in the battle nor in their tents, yielded up camp and all. Should such a sort be redeemed? I think them (father's conscript) no more worthy to be redeemed, than I think them worthy to be yielded to Hannibal, which escaped from their tents through the middle of their enemies: And through their great hardiness restored themselves to their country. When Manlius had finished his oration, all though many of them were of the kindred and alliance to the senators, yet the answer was given them, that they should not be redeemed. And that for two causes, the one was for the old example of the city, that had ever little favoured the redemption of captive prisoners. An other was, the great sum of money that must be paid for them. whereof their treasure had been before made bare with manifold charges of war. And also they were loath that Hannibal, than being needy of money, should with their substance be so greatly enriched. Than began a new mourning for the loss of the citizens. They followed the legates with great weeping and sorrow to the gates. One of those ten Roman messengers, that were sent from Hannibal, after that his company departed toward Rome, feigned that he had left some thing behind him, and so returned to his tents, and in the night overtook his company, by which fraudulent return, thinking himself quit and discharged of his oath, went home to his own house. And there remained still, not returning to Hannibal: but when his untruth was known, he was taken & sent to the tents of the Carthaginenses, to do with him their pleasure.   

¶ How Pacwius by craft became chief ruler of Capua, and of the yielding of that city to Annibal. Cap. xxvii.  
ANniball after the battle at Cannas, with as great speed as he might, went from Apulia to Samnium, and to Cossa, and so to Naples, but the strength of that town made him afraid to give assault thereto. Wherefore he went from thence, and came to Capua, which as than flouryshed in pleasure and abundance by long felicity & favour of fortune. Than was there in Capua one Pacwius, a noble man, saving that he got not his goods and riches by honest means. This Pacwius bore great office in the city the same year that the Romans lost the battle at Trasimenus: And now thinking to make a discord between the senate and the common people, who long had used great licence and liberty without reason, and thereby to increase both his authority and substance, devised a great and perilous enterprise, which was, that so soon as Hannibal should come thither with his army, he would cause the commons to slay the Senators: After whose death, he might at his pleasure yield the city to the Carthaginenses. Yet at the last he considered, that better it were for him to rule and govern a common wealth flourishing in all things than to rule a city, that were utterly subverted and destroyed (which he accounted to be, if the noblemen and ancient counsellors thereof were slain) he than imagined a way, that he might both save the senate and counsel of the city, and make the counsel of the same, to think themselves bound to him and to the common people. Whereupon he called a counsel, wherein he showed the senators, that to receive the Carthaginenses, and to leave the Romans friendship, did nothing please him, considering that he had married Appius Claudius' daughter, and also that Livius had married one of his daughters: saving that necessity did require it, because there was other matters in hand much more to be doubted, which was, that the common people were purposed first to slay them all that were of the Senate house, and after to yield up the city to Hannibal. Never the less he said, he would undertake that he would save them from danger, if they would commit themselves wholly to him: wherewith he made them great assurance by oaths. When they all, being overcome with fear, had consented to him, I will shut you (saith he) into the senate house, as though I were of the commons council, and did allow their deeds and purpose: but after I shall find a way to conserve and save you. And when they were agreed to the same, he enclosed them in the capitol, so that none could come to them, neither they get forth, unless it were by his licence. And than he called the common people together, and said: My friends, now have you power over the detestable and wicked senators, whose death ye have so long desired, and that ye have now without stroke striking. For behold, I have them enclosed in yonder house above unarmed: And what sentence ye will give of them, or any of them, that shall they suffer, according to their deserts. but before all things, I would you should have respect to your health and profit, before the execution of your wrath. For senators I am sure, ye will have to govern the city. Therefore now have we two things to be done together, that is, to put down the old senators, and than to chose new. I will well, that you shall judge what punishment the old shall have: but first you shall choose a new valiant wise senator in every of their places. Than set he down and caused their names to be put together in writing into a pot and as their names were severally drawn forth of the pot, he caused them to be called in order, and he that was first named he caused to be fetched out of the senate house, wherein they were enclosed. And when the commons herd his name, they all cried, that he was wicked, & worthy of punishment. Than said Pacwius, I here well what you say, let him be cast out for ●ought, & an other chosen in his place. Than were they at the first put to silence, because they wanted a better to be chosen in his place. And when any man would take upon him to name any other man: there would arise a greater rumour and noise at his naming. Some saying, they knew him not, and some reprehending his birth, some his manners, some the vileness of his craft and living, with such other like objections: & much more the noise was for choosing of the second and third: so that they all agreed, that it was rather better for them to suffer the old naughty senators to remain, which they knew, than to have such new, as were worse and unknown. so that they commanded to let the old senators go free, and use their romthes. After this manner Pacwius got the rule of the common wealth, peaceably making the senators much more bound to him for saving their lives, than to the commons of the city. And by this mean by all men's consent he had the hole governance of the city. Of this came the loss of the dignity to the senators, forgetting their liberty, doing nothing in the counsel house with out the commons advise. The city was always prone & given to lust & pleasure, not only by the naughtiness of their minds, but also by the abundance of pleasures, riches, and other delights, and of all fruitfulness both on sea and land, and warred want on through the flattery of princes, and overmuch liberty of the people, following their pleasures and lust beyond all measure, so that they despised both the senate and other magistrates, and also all rule and law. And than after the battle of Canvas, they that had a little shamefastness before, were not ashamed to despise the empire of Rome. And in short time after, they consented to yield up the city to Hannibal, and to leave the amity of the Romans: yet before they would send their legates to Hannibal, they sent messengers to Rome, to desire that one of their city might be ever one of the consuls at Rome, if they would that they should help them in their business. Whereupon there arose great indignation and anger, for that they that were before in amity and as subjects, should require such equality of honour with the Romans. Wherefore they commanded, that the legates should be brought out of the senate house, and further they sent an officer, who should convey them out of the city, and to charge them to depart out of the limyttes and bounds of Rome. The same legates incontinent upon their return home, were sent to Hannibal, who received them, and granted them all the conditions of peace, according to their asking, so that no ruler or magistrate of Carthage should hereafter claim rule or dominion over any citizen of Capua, neither should any of them be enforced to go in the wars, but at his own pleasure. Again, that they might keep still their own laws, with their rulers and magistrates. Amongst which requests, they desired iii C. Roman captives to be delivered unto them, which should be changed for other iii C. of their horsemen, that kept war in Sicilia, which was not denied them. To this agreement, Decius Magius, a man of great authority (saving that the commons were not agreeable to him) dydutterly withstand: first willing that no legacy should be sent to Hannibal. And as soon as he heard, that the agreement was made, and that Hannibal would send his men of arms to Capua▪ be showed them for an example, the proud reigning of Pyrthus: and the miserable servitude of the Tarentines, crying aloud, that if they would hear him, Hannibal's army should in no wise be received: And if they were all ready received, that they should be put forth again.  
¶ As soon as these things were showed to Hannibal (as they were not secretly spoken) he commanded, that Magius should be taken and sent unto him: but than he fearing the displeasure of the people, sent word to Marius the Praetor, that he would be at Capua the next day following. Marius' incontinent assembled the people, and showed all men of Hannibal's coming, commanding them to be ready with their wives to meet him. And when he was coming, and all the city went to meet him, only Decius, with his son, and a few of his friends, would not go with them: but walked openly and stubbornly in the market place. As soon as Annibal came to the city, he called a counsel, minding in his anger to do cruel execution of his adversaries, not withstanding the rulars of the city desired him, that he should do nothing as that day, but be merry and celebrate the same in the worship of his coming. To whose request (although he was of a sudden inclination to wrath and anger) he was conformable: and spent that day in viewing the city.  
¶ Pacwins Calavius, of whom we spoke before, who was chief of the city, and chief causer of the yielding thereof to the Carthaginenses, brought his son, being a young man, thither, whom he took from the company of Decius, with whom the young man stood firmly against the bands and friendship made with the Carthaginenses: neither could the citizens, being inclined to that part, neither the authority of his father, move the young man to the same: unto whom his father, with great intercession, made Hannibal good lord and friend. Hannibal being overcome and appeased with the request of his father, caused the young man, with his father, to be sent for to supper: at which supper there was none of Capua, saving those that were lodged in that house, and one jubellius Taurea, a noble warrior. The souper was begun before the night, the feast was sumptuous, and not after the manner of fare in war time. This youngman, neither by the provocation of the rulars, nor by the chering of Annibal himself, could be persuaded to be merry, but he showed his father, that he was diseased, and that his mind was sore troubled. And when his father heard that, he departed out of the feasting chamber before the son was set: whom his son followed. And when they came to a garden, at the end of the house, which was secret: Father (saith he) I have devised now away, whereby we shall not only purchase our pardon of the Romans, for that we have forsaken them and chosen Hannibal to be our governor, but we shall stand now from henceforth in moche more dignity and grace with them, than ever we were before. When his father (marveling what it might be) had inquired of him that device: he cast his gown from him, and showed his side being girt with a sword: Now will I (said he) establysshe and sanctify the bands betwixt the Romans and us, with the blood of Hannibal: Of this counsel father, I thought to make the privy before, for because I knew not, whether thou hadst rather be present, whiles the deed were doing or not. Which device when the old man heard (as though he had be present at the doing of that which was spoken) with great fear he began to adhort and persuade his son to the contrary: laying first the great oath and promise made to Hannibal by all the whole city: and also showing the danger of the act to be such, that he could never escape alyne. I being thy Father (said he) have won Hannibal to be thy good lord, and shall not I win my son to be friend to Hannibal? And after that he had with long prayer, weeping, and great intercession overcome his son, and dissuaded him from his enterprise: the young man said these words: O country, receive thou this sword, with which I being armed, would have defended this city and castle, sparing nothing, nor Fearing mine own death, but only being overcome with my father's persuasions. And when he had so said, he cast his sword into the plain over the garden wall, and than because he should not be suspect, he went again to the feast.  
¶ The next day the senate was holden, in the which Annibals first oration was very gentle, giving thanks unto the citizens, for that they preferred his amity and friendship before the Romans: and among other high promises, he promised them, that Capua should in short space be the head of all italy: And that the Romans, with other cities of Italy, should seek unto Capua for their right and law: but he said, that there was among them one named Magius Decius, who was nothing agreeable unto the amity between the Carthaginenses and them of Capua: who (he said) was no citizen, nor aught to be so called nor reputed. Wherefore he required, that he might be yielded untohym, and that also in his presence his cause might be debated before them of the counsel. To which request every man granted, although some thought he was a man much unworthy to sustain such misery, and that their liberty began to minish not a little in the beginning. The senate was holden in the temple. Magius was commanded to be taken, and brought to show his matter, and he anon denied it to be lawful for them, to break the truce taken with the Romans. Wherefore he was commanded to be bound with chains, and led to the camp of the Carthaginenses. In this leading thither, as long as his face was not covered, he went crying to all them, which were gathered together to see him: Now have ye, men of Capua, your liberty, which you desired: In the market place, and in the day light, and in the presence of you all, I being chief and most ancient of Capua, being bound, am drawn to death. What could have been done more cruel and violente, if Capua had be taken? when he could not be stayed, but continued crying after this manner, because the common people were thought to be moved with his words, his face and head was covered, and he was led quickly out of the gates into the tents of Hannibal, and from thence in haste sent toward Carthage by ship, lest there should be any sedition moved for the same among the citizens: but in sailing thither, the ship was driven by tempest to Cyrenas, where Magius fled to the picture of Ptholomeus the king for his safeguard. Whereupon he was brought by the keepers of the town to Alexandria, before Ptholomeus. And when he had declared unto the king, that Hannibal had sent him bound, contrary unto the league and bands of the truce taken with the citizens of Capua: he was delivered from his bands, and had liberty to go whither he would to Rome, or to Capua. To the which he made answer, that Capua was not a place very safe for him: and he said, that Rome, whiles there was war between the men of Capua and it, was rather an habitation of vagabonds than of friends and old guests. Wherefore he said, he had not so great desire to live in any place, as in his kingdom, by whom he was restored to his liberty.   

¶ The news that Mago brought to Carthage of Annibals' victories in Italy, and the oration of Hanno a senator of Carthage m●●e unto the same. Cap. xxvii.  
Whiles these things were done in Italy, Mago the son of Amilcar, not sent from the army by his brother, but occupied a certain space, in receiving the cities of the Brusians, which yielded themselves willingly to the Carthaginenses, brought tidings to Carthage of the victory at Cannas. When the senators were for him assembled, he declaring the acts done by his brother in Italy, said: that he had fought with six captains, of the which iiii. were consuls, the fist dictator, that is chief ruler in the common wealth of the city, and the sixth master of the horsemen. He said also, that he had overcome vi consuls hosts: so that there was slain by him ii C. M. and above thirty. M. taken. and also he had slain ii of the four consuls, and the third was sore wounded: and the fourth having lost all his host, fled scarcely with l men. And that the master of the horsemen was overcome and put to flight: so that the Dictator, which at no time durst come to battle, remained only their head and captain. Furthermore, that divers places in Italy were turned to Hannibal, as the Brucians', the Apulians, part of the Samnites, and the Lucanes. In so much as Capua, which was not only the head of Campania, but also of all Italy, ever since the Romans were so overthrown at Cannas, had yielded themselves to Hannibal.  
And for the more credence of these so joyful news, he caused rings of gold to be powered before the senators, which of many men were reported to be to the quantity of three bushels, and a half: but most authors write (and that seemeth to bemost agreeable to verity) that they were above the measure of a bushel. And moreover because it should be a token of a more notable slaughter, he said: that no man did wear any of the saydiewels, but horsemen, and men of iiobilitie.  
The sum of his oration was, that the greater the hoop was of the wholevyctory, so much rather Hannibal should be aided with great help and succour, signifying to them, that the war was far from thence, in the middle of their enemies land: and that a great quantity of grain and moche money was spent. He said also, that as the numbered of their enemies with so many battles were slain and diminysshed, so their host also was partly minished and slain. Wherefore it was meet (he said) to send money grain and other necessaries to soldiers that so well had set forth the name and honour of Carthage.  
¶ For these tidings of Mago, every man being merry, Himilco, a man of the faction of the Barchins, thought to find an occasion to check Hanno. What now Hanno (saith he) doth it forthink the of the beginning of the war with the Romans? Command Hannibal to be delivered now unto them: or forbid in this so fortunate time thanks to be given to the immortal God's. Now let us here a senator of Rome speak in the senate house of Carthage. Whereunto Hanno answered.  
¶ I was determined father's conscript, at this time, in your so great and commonjoy, to have holden my peace, and to have spoken nothing, which should have been displeasant to you: but I can now no less do, but answer the senator that inquired of me, whether it forthinketh me of the war enterprised against the Romans, or no. Therefore mine answer shallbe this to Himilco, that I forthink me yet of the war taken, and shall still repent it, nor shall at any time cease to forthink it, and blame our victorious capitain, until I see the war taken up and ended by some tolerable way and condition, neither shall any other thing cause me to seasse from the desire of the old ancient peace, save only a new peace made. These goodly news, which Mago hath blazed abroad, are very joyful to Himilco and other Annibals friends and servants: yea they may be also joyful to me, for our prosperity in war, if we take our good fortune when it cometh, shall cause us to have better and more profitable peace. But if we let pass this time, in the which we may be thought rather to grant peace, than to crave it: I doubt, lest this joy will deceive us, and come to nothing. Now let us discuss this matter seriously, and ye shall perceive what this great joy is. He saith, the army of our enemies is slain: yet he commandeth soldiers to be sent him. What other thing would a man desire, if he were overcome. He saith also, that the Camps and tents of both hosts of our enemies are taken, with a rich pray and spoil: yet he commandeth, that we shall send him grain and money. What other thing could a man desire, if he were rob and driven from his own tents? But now I have answered Himilco to his demands, I would that other Himilco or Mago would answer me unto that I shall ask of them. If the field fought at Cannas was to the utter subversion of the Roman empire, and death of the hole host, and all Italy like yield them, and forsake the Romans? first whether any of the people of Rome come fleinge to us, and forsake the Romans? Moreover, whether any of the xxxv tribes have fled, and come to Hannibal? Which both things when Mago had denied to be done: It must then follow (said he) that we have many enemies yet left at Rome. But I would feign know, what courage and hope that multitude of our enemies hath? When Mago had said, he could not tell. There is nothing more easy (said Hanno) to be known. did the Romans send any legates to Hannibal for peace? or whether had ye any knowledge, that the romans made any mention of peace at Rome? when he also had denied that: Than have we (said he) as great war even now in hand, as we had the first day that Hannibal entered into italy. There be many of us alive, that do remember yet, how variable the victory was in the first wars that were betwixt Carthage and Rome. Our wars and business (both by sea and land) were thought never to be more prosperous, than before Caius Luctatius, and Appius Posthumius were Consuls: But yet in their time we were overcome at the Isles of Egates. Likewise now, if Fortune do turn (as she is always variable) which I pray unto the Goddis may not happen: Would ye than hope to have peace, when we are overcome, the which now we can not get, although we vanquysshe and overcome the Romans? If any mention of peace were made, either to be given to our enemies, or else to be taken of them: I could tell then right well what to say. But in case ye will only comen of the demands of Mago, I think, if our people have so vanquished our enemies as hath been declared, it is not needful to send them that which Mago desireth. And if they would mock us with their vain report of victory, when none such is had in deed: I think than they ought less to be succoured at our hands.  
¶ With this oration of Hanno very few were moved to be of his opinion. For the envy and hatred, that they bore unto him, and also the great kindred of the other, caused him to be the worse heard. Again, they were so rejoiced with the sudden and present joy, that they would hear nothing, that should hinder the same: Supposing the wars should soon be finished, if they did send any help now at this time into italy. Wherefore by the hole consent of the Senate it was concluded, to send to Hannibal forty thousand Numydians, to his succours, and forty elephants, and a great sum of money. And the Dictatoure of Carthage was sent into Spain, with Mago, to hire twenty thousand footmen, and four thousand horseman, which should furnish again the armies both in Spain, and also in Italy. But these things were foreslowed and done by leisure (as commonly it happeth in prosperity. But beside the natural industry of the Romans, Fortune also wrought moche for them: for they happened that year upon a Consul, that sought all means possible, to further all such things as should be thought necessary to be brought to pass by him. And Marcus Junius, being dictator, besides the legions, which were appointed before, and the bondmen of the City, with other succours such as he could gather together of diverse countries adjoining, to fournysshe the army: He leapt than besides his horse, saying: All such as have committed any manner of crime worthy of death, and they that are condemned to prison for money, if they would be soldiers with him, and go to the war, he would pay their debts, and lose them from their hands and punishment. Thus had he of that sort vi M. soldiers, whom he armed with the armour that C. Flamminius took from the frenchmen, and than he went out of the city with xxv M. harneyst men.   

¶ Of the battle between Marcellus and Hannibal before the city of Nola, and of Annibals wyntring in Capua, the delicate pleasures, whereby he withdrew the hearts and courages of his men from all warlike fashion. Cap. xxviii.  
AFter Hannibal had taken Capua, he assayed many and divers ways to have gotten Naples, which when he could not bring to pass, he went from thence to the fields of the Nolans, assayeng by many ways to win the town of Nola. The senate, and namely the chief, stack surely to their old friends the Romans: The communes being (as they are wont) desirous of news, inclined all to Hannibal. Wherefore the senate, fearing to strive with the commons openly (against whose power, yfnede required, they were not able to resist) privyly dissembling, found means to prolong the time, saying, they were content to be yielded to Hannibal, but they knew not after what manner and condition they should yield. During which time of delay, they sent ambassadors to Marcellus the praetor of Rome, being than at Cannusium, showing him the circumstance of the matter: willing him to come to them if he intended that they should keep the town. Who perceiving their steadfastness, greatly praised the senate of Nola, desiring them to persevere in their purpose: and use such subtlety in prolonging of time, as they before had done, until his coming to them, which should be shortly: In the mean season, he willed them, not to be acknown of any succour that was coming. Than straight he made him ready, and with his army took the way to Calacia, and over the river of Vulturnus, and so to Nola.  
¶ Hannibal before the praetors coming, went from Nola to Naples, very desirous to win some town that lay on the sea costs, to which the ships might have free and safe passage from Africa. But when he understood Naples was defended by a Roman capitain (the Neapolitans had gotten thither M. junius Syllanus) and should as well be kept out there as he was at Nola: he went and laid siege to Nuceria, which at last, using many ways, he caused them by famine to yield. Marcellus was by that time in the town of Nola, and was no surer of his own soldiers than he was of the princes of Nola: but he feared the commons, and above all other he dread a young man, very hardy, and of a noble lineage, whose name was Lucius Bantius, who was much desirous to yield the town to Hannibal. for being found among a heap of dead bodies and sore wounded in the battle at Cannas, Hannibal caused him to be healed, and sent home with large gifts: for which gentle deed, he would fain that Nola should be yielded to Hannibal. Marcellus perceived this Bantius to be troubled in his mind with such study, so that he must either with punishment be refrained, or else by benefit reconciled: he sent for him, and so beninglye with words, promises, and gifts entertained him, that there was none in the city so sure after to the Romans as he.  
¶ When Hannibal was come from Nuceria (which he of late had taken) before the gates of Nola, Marcellus was entered the city, not fearing to keep his camp abroad: but lest his tarrying without should be an occasion of betraying and yielding up the city. Than began small skirmishing between the city and the Carthaginenses: at which time the princes of Nola showed Marcellus, that the common people had secret meetings and communication in the night, with the Carthaginenses: in the which it was purposed, that when the Romans were gone out to fight, they would take their stuff and carriage, and shut the gates: and so when they had gotten both their stuff and goods, they would receive the Carthaginenses into the town in stead of the Romans. When they had showed these conspiracies to Marcellus, he praised their fidelity greatly, and thought to assay what he might do by battle, before any such trouble should be within the city. First he ordered his host being divided in three parts, at the iii gates, which opened against his enemies. He commanded the stuff and baggage to follow a pretty space after. And at the middle gate he set the strength of the Roman legions, the new soldiers and other that came to their succours, he set at the two other gates, straightly commanding, that the Nolans in no wise should come on the walls, nor near the gates. He sent also certain soldiers to await on the carriage and stuff, lest when they were busy in battle, the Nolanes might spoil and take it. When all things were thus put in good order, they stood still within the walls, without making any show.  
¶ Hannibal standing in array in the fields a long space, as he was wont, marveled that he saw neither the host come to the fields, nor no man armed on the walls: Than he supposed, that their counsel was known, and that for fear the commons of the town were constrained to forsake their promise. Wherefore he sent part of the soldiers to the tents to fetch ordinance and all things necessary to assault the walls, thinking that if he went on them, whiles they abode in this stay, that the common people of the city would make some rumour on the walls. incontinent whiles every man, as the commandment was, ran to his business, touching the assault, and the host went to the walls: the gates were suddenly opened. Marcellus commanded to spread the banners, and the trumpets to blow, and the footmen first, and after the horsemen to run on their enemies. Some authors say, that there were slain at that skirmish ii M. iii. C. Carthaginenses, & but one man of the Romans: whetherthe victory were so great, or whether it were less, the act was great, and the conduct noble. Hannibal having no hope of opteyning the town, went than to Acerras, and Marcellus straight caused the gates of Nola to be shut, lest any man should pass forth: and made anon straight and diligent examination, who they were, that would have betrayed the town. He beheaded lxxx of them, and caused their goods to be distributed among the commons. And after he had committed the charge of keeping of the town to the senate, he removed with his hole host beyond Suessala.  
¶ Hannibal, after he had won Acerras, came to Cassilinum, where they so valiantly defended themselves, that Hannibal, being half ashamed, left the siege, and went to winter at Capua. And there he kept his host in houses for the most part of the winter, who of long time before had endured against all kinds of pains and travail, having small knowledge of pleasure or ease. And they that could not before be overcome with any kind of misery or pain, were than lost with unmeasurable pleasures: wherein they were wholly drowned, so greedy they were thereof, after their accustomed pains. Thus took they all their delight in sleep and wine, in banquets, haunting of harlots and baths, with daily rest and idleness, which delicate fashion withdrew both their courage, and also their strength from their bodies and minds: so that afterward their joy comfort and strength was more by remembrance of the victories, which they had obtained before, than in their present strength: In so much that to let his soldiers thus follow their lusts, was thought among expert warriors a greater hindrance unto him, than that he did not lead his host to Rome straight after the battle of Cannas. For that tarrying and doubting was thought but only a prolonging of the victory, but this fault made them unable afterward to overcome. So that when he removed from Capua after the winter, it seemed that he led forth a strange army, other than he brought thither, they observed none of their accustomed sort of war, some returned to their harlots: many other, as soon as they began to feel pain, travail, and hardness of war, and that they were fain to be covered with skins, they were so weary, and the war seemed to them so tedious, that they wanted both their strength of body, and hardiness of mind, which they had before. A great part of the host without their wages, stole from their capitains, neither had they any other den or receptable but Capua.   

¶ Of the long siege and winning of Cassilinum, with the death and destruction of the consul Posthumius and his host in the wood of Lytana by the craft of the frenchmen. Cap. xxix.  
When it drew toward the summer, Hannibal removed again to Cassilinum, where without assault giving but only by continual siege keeping, he brought the inhabitants thereof almost to extreme ponertie and famine. The dictator in this season was gone to Rome, to search by divinations the fortune that should happen. Titus Sempronius was left as ruler of the army. Marcellus being at Nola would have succoured them of Cassilinum, save that the citizens of Nola would in no case suffer him to go from them, fearing lest after his departure, the inhabitants of Capua would have invaded them. The river also of Vulturnus was risen so high, that he could not well pass over, but in great jeopardy. Gracchus was left with a certain men of war, to lie about Cassilinum, who moved not, nor brought them any succour, because he had in commandment of the dictator, that he should move no battle in his absence: yet heard he such news from Cassilinum, which would have moved a man to have broken his commandment. For it was showed him, that some being not able to sustain the great hunger and famine, without advisement, destroyed themselves: And some desiring the death, would stand on the walls without armour, to the intent they might be slain with the shot of their enemies. Gracchus seeing that he durst not help them by battle, because of the contrary commandment of his dictator, And there was no remedy to bring them sustynance, for that in no case could be done without battle. Than he gathered in the fields as many kinds of corn as he could, and therewith filled a great numbered of vessels or barrels, and sent a messenger to the rulars of the city, certifying them, that he would the next night send the vessels with grain down the water, warning them to be ready to receive them at the coming of the tide. The night following, every man went to the river to tarry the coming of the grain, according to the promise of Gracchus, at the last they might see the tounnes come swiming down the middle of the stream, which they received gladly and divided it equally among them. Thus they continued by the space of iii or four nights, so long they deceived the watchmen of their enemies: but at the last the water arose moche higher than it was wont, by the reason of a continual rain that fell, so that the stream was more swift than it was wont to be, whereby the vessels were driven to land on that part where the host of Hannibal lay, and many were found sticking among the willows, that grew on the banks of the river, which was showed unto Hannibal, who afterward, with greater diligence, watched the river of Vulturnus, lest he should by such means be eftsoons deceived. Yet was there such like devise made by sending of nuts down the stream, in barels till it was also espied. At length they were brought to such poverty, that they were constrained to take skins, strings, and the coverings of shields, which they made soft in warm water, and so eat them: neither refrained they to eat mice and such kind of vermyn, and all kind of herbs and roots, which grew without in the field adjoining to the walls. Thus also perceived Hannibal: wherefore he caused the ground to be ploughed up, where all such herbs and roots did grow to his enemies secure without the wall. In which new ploughed grounds the men of the town sowed pasnepsede, whereat Hannibal cried, Shall I tarry at Cassilinum while these sedes be grown up able for their food and sustynance? Whereupon where before he would here of no communication of truce, he than was contented to covenant with them for their redemption. The price of their redemption was vii ounces of gold for every of them. When the covenants were made, they yielded themselves. And they were kept in prison, until all the money was paid. And after sent with good leave to Cumas. There came from Preneste to the garrison of Cassilinun .v. C. and seventy soldiers, of which the most part were slain and famished, the residue went to Preneste with their captain Manicius: Cassilinum was given to the citizens of Capua, and kept with vii C. of Hannibal's soldiers, lest when they were departed from thence, the Romans should take it again. The senate of Rome appointed double stypende to the soldiers of Preneste, and also gave them five years licence, to be absent from the wars, for their great fidelity. Than were the Romans busy in choosing new soldiers, to supply their places that were slain in the battle before. Lucius Posthumius, and Titus Sempronius were chosen consuls. The dictator, when the officers were chosen, went to Theanun, where the army wyntred: he left the master of the horsemen at Rome: who anon after he had received the office, counseled with the fathers, about choosing and ordaining of their armies for that year. And when they were most diligent about their bulines, tidings was brought to the city of a new slaughter and loss, that was than happened unto them, one evil chance that year coming after an other. The truth was, that Lucius Posthumius and his army was destroyed in France by this mean. There was a great wide wood, called by the frenchmen Litana, through which he should lead his host, of the which wood the Frenchmen had so cut all the trees on both sides the way, if they were not moved, they would stand still: but being any thing moved, they would anon fall. Posthumius had in his host five and twenty thousand men. The frenchmen had bestowed their company round about the compass of the wood, and when the army of the Romans was well entered the wood, they cast down the farthest part of the trees, growing in the borders of the wood, which when they were moved fell one upon an other through the wood, having no stay, throwing down and slaying the Romans as they passed, both men and horses, so that scarcely ten men escaped, the most part were almost paste breath and dead of the hurts of the trees falling on them, the residue, that escaped, & would have fled, being amazed with the sudden chance, were slain by the frenchmen, who being armed, beset though wood round about. There were a few taken, which sought to go over a bridge, which the frenchmen kept, but anon they were compassed and beset about with the frenchmen. There the consul Posthumius, who in no wise would be taken of his enemies, manfully and nobly died. They brought the ornaments of his body, and his head, being cut from the body, to the chief temple in that country, with singing and moche mirth. They purged and cleansed the skull within and without, and covered the brain pan over with gold, using it to drink therein, when they did sacrifice at any solemn feast: and also it served the priests and bishops of the temple, as a cup at the sacrifice. The pray was no less to the frenchmen than the victory, for although the most part of the cattle was slain, with the falling of the trees, yet they lost nothing of the substance that they had about them.  
¶ When this slaughter was known at Rome, the citizens were in such sorrow and trouble for a great space, that they shut their windows and shops, as though it had been in the night: but within short space the senators charged the officers, to go about the city, and cause the shops and doors to be opened, & to cause the citizens to leave their sorrow.  
¶ Than Titus Sempronius called a senate or court, in the which he exhorted and counseled the father's conscript, that they, whose hearts were not over come for the great destruction and loss of the battle at Cannas, should not now suffer themselves to be vanquished with this moche less sorrow and calamity: admonishing them, that as concerning the Carthaginenses and Hannibal, all was (as he trusted it should be) very well. And as for the wars with the Frenchmen it might be deferred for a season: for at all times the revenging of their harms was in the power of the God's and the romans. Furthermore he showed them, that they ought chief to counsel and work against Hannibal circumspectly, preparing with what numbered of men he might be resisted, and he first reasoned what numbered of footmen and horsemen, of citizens and other their friends of Italy, were in the host of the dictator. Than Marcellus declared what numbered was in his army, that he had charge of: And thus after they had imagined and decreed, what numbered should satisfy the two Consuls hosts, they agreed, that the war against the frenchmen should be omitted until an other time.   

¶ Of the victory of the Scipions in Spain. Cap. thirty.  
Whiles these things were done and prepared in Italy, the Roman capitains in Spain were not idle, but as than had the upperhand of their enemies. P. Scipio and C. Scipio his brother parted their army betwixt them, so that Cneius should have the land, and Publius the sea, There was great war in spain between the Scipions and hasdrubal: but when it was known in Spain, that hasdrubal should go with his host into Italy: a great numbered of them turned their hearts to the Romans. Wherefore Hasdrubal sent letters to Carthage, certifying the Senate, how dangerous his departing out of Spain should be: And how that before he were passed the river of Iherus, the more part of Spain would turn to the Romans. Which letters although at the first they moved the senate moche, not withstanding because their hole minds were given toward the charge & business of the affairs of Italy, they changed not their purpose, conferring the sending of hasdrubal into italy: but in his place they sent Himilco with an host fournysshed to keep the seas and the land, and also the country of Spain: who when he had all thing necessary provided for him, with as great speed as might be, passed the country of Spain, until he came to hasdrubal. And as soon as he had showed him the commandment of the senate, and that hasdrubal had likewise informed him, how he should demean himself in the wars of Spain: he returned again to his tents with speed. But Hasdrubal, ere ever he removed his camp, caused taxes of money to be raised of all countries that were under his obeisance: knowing well, that Hannibal had bought certain passages of the frenchmen, and that without their help, the entry into the Alps or high mountains, was hard to be obtained. When he had gathered great sums of money, he went down with speed to the river of Iberus.  
¶ And when the purpose of the Carthaginenses, and Hasdrubals journey was known and showed to the Scipions, they setting all other business apart, with both their hosts together, set forward to meet him, and prepared to let his enterprise: supposing, that if hasdrubal, being a capitain and that great new host of the Carthaginenses, were joined to Hannibal (whom alone Italy was scarcely able to withstand) that than the empire of Rome should soon be at an end. Thus they being troubled with care of this business, brought their host to Iberus. And when they had passed the river, consulting long, whether they should pitch their camp near to their enemies, or else overrun and subdue some of the Carthaginenses friends, thereby to stay and prolong their enemies purposed journey. At last they determined to besiege the city, called Ibera (of the water, which was near it) the richest of the country at that time. Which thing when hasdrubal knew, in stead of bringing succour to his friends, he went to besiege a City, that was lately yielded to the Romans: so than the Romans left their liege, and turned the battle wholly to hasdrubal. There was betwixt the two hosts, for the space of certain days, the space of five miles, during which time they were not without small skirmishing. At length, as it were pretended of both parts, at one time both the hole hosts descended into the plain, ready to give battle. The Roman host was divided into three parts, part of the footmen were set before the standards, and part behind the horsemen, kept the sides or wings. On the other part hasdrubal set in the middle battle the Spaniards, and in the right wing the Carthaginenses, and in the left wing the Africans, with the hired strange soldiers: And he put the Numidians to the footmen of Carthage, the residue of the africans he set before the wings: neither did he set all the Numydians in the right wing, but those, whose qualities were such in lightness and nimbleness, that riding upon one horse, and leading a spare horse in their hands, when the one was weary, they would among the thickest of their enemies leap armed on the other fresh horse, their agility and quickness was so great, and the horses of kind so gentle and well taught. Thus stood they in array, and little difference there was, other in the numbered or kinds of soldiers of either host. Not withstanding the soldiers hearts were not like. The Roman captains, although they fought far from home, yet might they easily persuade their soldiers, that they should fight for their country, and for the city of Rome. Wherefore by that doubtful battle they purposed, other to overcome, or to die, trusting thereby to have short return home to their country. The other host had not so stern valiant and hardy men. for the more part of them were spaniards, which had rather be overcome in Spain, than winning the victory, be conducted into Italy. Therefore at the first meeting, when the darts were scarcely thrown, the middle ward fled, and gave place to the Romans: who came upon them with great violence, not withstanding the battles were nothing less in the wings, for on the one side the Carthaginenses, and on the other side the Africans came on them boldly, and fought eagerly. but when the Roman host had gotten in to the middle together, they were strong enough to put away the wings of their enemies. Wherefore being in numbered and strength best, they shortly put the other to the worse. There was a great numbered of men slain, and unless the Spaniards had fled away, so thick before the battle was begun, there had scarcely any of them remained unslain. There was no battle between the horse men. for as soon as the Mauritaynes and Numidians saw the middle ward overcome and put to flight, they driving the elephants before them, suddenly departed and fled: leaving both the wings bare. hasdrubal remaining till the last end of the battle, fled with a few with him. That battle caused the hearts of the spaniards, which doubted before in the friendship of the Romans, to be wholly given to them. And it did not only take the hope from Hasdrubal of leading his host into Italy: but also that there was scarce tarrying for him in Spain. Which things after they were certified to the senate at Rome by the Scipions letters, they were not so glad of the victory, as that Hasdrubal and his host were prohibited the entry into Italy.   

¶ The oration of the Samnites and the Hirpines' to Hannibal, desiring his help against the Romans, with the order of Marcellus and Hannibal about Nola. Cap. xxxi.  
Whiles these things were done in spain, the Romans ordered their business wisely in Italy. Titus Sempronius and Quintus Fabius Maximus were chosen consuls. Marcellus than lay at Nola, and he made divers out runnynges with his army into the fields of the Hirpines' and Samnites, and so destroyed all with the sword and fire, that he renewed the memory of the old destruction of Samnium: and than straight ways both the nations sent their messengers to Hannibal at once, who spoke to him after this manner.  
¶ We were (O Hannibal) enemies to the romans of ourselves, as long as our weapons, our harness, and strength were able to maintain us. afterward when we had small hope and trust in them, we fell into amity with Pyrrhus, of whom we were forsaken, being not able to defend us, we took truce and peace necessary, for that we were unable to withstand the Romans. And we have endured in the same peace the space of thirty years, unto thy coming into Italy. Sens which time thy only gentleness toward our citizens (which being taken, thou sendest to us again) as well as thy virtue and fortune, so hath won us unto thee, that if thou our friend be safe and in good health, we not only would not fear the Romans, but also if it were lawful to be spoken, we would not fear the God's. But verily not only thou being safe and sound, but also present where as thou mayst also behold our houses burning, and here the wailing of our wives and children, we are so spoiled, and our goods wasted and destroyed, that it may be thought, that Marcus Marcellus hath overcome at Cannas, and not Hannibal: and also the Romans may rejoice, that thou only as it were at one battle, art strong and valiant, and at the next weathered and faint. we kept war with the Romans the space of one hundred years, being succoured by no man, saving that Pyrrhus the space of ii years, did increase his strength and power with our men, rather than defend us by his power. We will not rejoice of our prosperity, when we subdued ii consuls with their hosts at one time and brought them into our subjection: but omitting all such prosperous chances that we had, we might show those things that happened infortunately to us at that time, if there were any with less shame than we may now declare those that be chanced to us. There did invade the costs of our countries at that time ii noble dictators, the masters of horsemen, and two consuls, with two consuls hosts, having all thing provided for them necessarily, or they would adventure to rob and destroy our country. But now we be almost a pray to one little host, being left for the succours of Nola. Now they being but a small number, after the manner of robbers, overcome our country with less fear, than if they were in the Roman fields. The cause is, that neither thou dost defend us, and also that all our lusty young and valiant men, which without doubt, if they were at home, would defend us, are with thee, and under thy banner: neither had we known thee, nor thine host, had not it happened, that through thy might there were so many Romans slain and put to flight, to whom we may suppose it but a light thing to suppress our robbers, roning abroad in the fields without order, running whither as foolysshe and vain hope of a prey doth lead them, whom a few of thy Numidians would utterly confound. And I doubt not, but thou wilt send us some sure help and succour, except thou judge us unworthy to be defended and helped, when heretofore thou thoughtest us not unworthy to be taken as thy friends and companions, receiving us into thy amity and friendship. ¶ To this their lamentable oration Hannibal answered, that the Hirpines' and Samnites did show their ruin and loss, requiring help therein, and also did complain, that they were left without succour and unholpen, and all at ones: where as they should first have showed their cause, asking succour in their mischief, and afterward, if they could not have help, than to complain, that their suit was in vain. Never the less he promised them succours and help, not that his army should come into any of their grounds, but that he would invade their neighbours, which were friends to the Romans: whereby he should draw the Romans from vexing of them, making them glad to defend their friends. And as concerning the war between him and the Romans, if the battle at Trasimenus were nobler than that of Trebia, and the battle at Cannas more noble than that of Trasimenus: he would make the fame and memory of the victory at Cannas, but obscure and nothing to be esteemed, in comparison of a more noble and triumphant victory, that he trusted to have of them. With this answer and great rewards he sent them home: and leaving a little company at Tisatis, he took his journey to Nola. At the same time Hanno came to him from the Brusians, with stuff sent from Carthage, and with elephants.  
¶ When Hannibal had pitched his tents, not far from Nola, he found all things otherwise than it was showed him by the legates of the Samnites. For Marcellus so ruled himself ever and all his men, that he committed nothing to fortune, neither left any thing rashly in danger of his enemies: for when he went about any spoil of the country, or to get any prey, he did it as providently, as though he should have done it, Hannibal being present. And when he perceived Hannibal to become: he kept his host within the city. Whereupon Hanno approached nigh unto the wall, calling forth Herennius Bassus and Herius Petreius, who by the licence of Marcellus went forth to talk with him. Than unto them by an interpreter he began to extol the virtue and fortune of Hannibal, and despised the nobility of the Romans, which (he said) decayed together with their power and strength: which nobility and power if it were like as it was in old time, not withstanding knowing the hard and cruel empire and governance of the Romans, and the great gentleness of Hannibal towards all the captives of Italy, the friendship and amity of the Carthaginenses was to be preferred before the amity of the Romans. And if both the Consuls with their hosts were at Nola, they were no more to be compared to Hannibal, than they were at the battle of Cannas: moche less one praetor with a few new & unskilled soldiers, was able to defend Nola. And that they rather than Hannibal, ought to care, after what manner Nola should come to Hannibal's possession: other taken by violence, or yielded. for there was no remedy but have it he would, as he had Capua and Nuceria. He said further, that he would not divine, what should happen to the city being taken, but durst rather promise and undertake, that if they would yield Marcellus and the city to Hannibal, that no man, but they themselves, should prescribe the bands and laws of the petition that should be between them.  
¶ Whereunto Herennius Bassus answered: that the amity between the Romans and the Nolanes had continued many years, of the which neither of them did forthink. He said furthermore, that if they should have changed or broken their faiths, when their fortune failed or changed, that now it were to late to change: for that other changed a long time agone: And that it had been folly for them to have sought succour of the Romans if they had been minded to have yielded the town to Hannibal. Wherefore their minds were, that with those, which came to their succours, they were in all things joined and surely knit together, and to the death should be. Which answer took from Hannibal the hope of optayving the city without battle: Wherefore he beset the city round about, intending to give assault thereunto on all parts.  
¶ So soon as Marcellus saw that his enemies approached the walls, he ordered his host wisely within the walls, and than suddenly issued out to battle, making great noise. Some at the first encountering were driven back and slain: but when the armies joined together, the battle began to be very fierce on both parts: And no fail it had bena sore sight, had not a huge tempest and rain departed them: whereby having both eager minds, the one was driven into the town, and the other to his camp or tents, and little hurt done, where (being both desirous of battle) they abode all the next day, so great was the violence of the storm. The third day Hannibal sent part of his soldiers, to rob and spoil the fields: which when Marcellus knew, he straight ways brought his host forth to the battle, and Hannibal on the other side was nothing behind. There was almost a mile between the town and the camp, where the two hosts met together. The cry that was raised on both parts caused the company to return to battle, which were before sent a spoiling, and the Nolans with their power were ready to increase the Romans host: whom Marcellus (greatly praising for their good wills and courage) commanded to stand in array ready to their succour, and to convey them, which were wounded, out of the battle. And that they should in no wise fight, until he commanded them. The battle was strong, the soldiers fought with all their mights, and likewise the capitains provoked them to the same.  
Marcellus bad them boldly withstand those that were overcome not three days before, and that not long agone fled from Cuma as vagabonds, and the year before were driven from Nola, he being capitain. And to comfort them the more, he said, that all their enemies were not in battle: some were a roving in the fields, and those that fought in battle, were weathered with the pleasure of Capua, with wine and haunting of harlots. And that the strengths, courage, and might of their bodies and hearts, by the which they passed the great mountains called Alps, and the hills of Pyrenes, was clean gone. He said also, that those were the leavings of the foresaid sowldyoures, scarce able to bear and sustain their own members and harness, showing, that Capua was as hurtful and displeasant unto Hannibal and his men, as Cannas was to the Romaones. for there (said he) they have left all their strongthe, virtue, and good feats of war, yea and have left there not only all their glory and fame of the time past, but also hoop of victory in time to come.   

¶ The exhortation of Hannibal to his soldiers, the battle between him and Marcellus, and the victories of the Scipions in Spain. Capitulo. xxxii.  
ANd when Marcellus with such words to his enemies reproach had encouraged his soldiers, Hannibal likewise with no less rebuke and blame to the Romans called on his men, saying, that he knew them to have the same armour and standerdes, which they had at Trebia, Trasymenus, and at Cannas: what meaneth it now (saith he) that ye scarcely are able to withstand one legate Roman, and the battle of one legion or wing: where two consuls hosts were never able to withstand you? Shall Marcellus with his new and untaught soldiers, and the succours of Nola yet again provoke us, and we not revenged upon them? where are my soldiers that drew Flamminius from his horse, and struck of his head? Where is he that slew Lucius Paulus at Cannas? are your swords blunt? or are your right hands astonied and weary? What a monstrous thing is this? that you, the which were wont, when that ye were but a very few in number, in short space to overcome a great meinie, now you being many, suffer a few to stick in your hands: you boasted as bold men with your tongues, that you would win Rome, if any man would bring you thither. Behold now your business here is much less. I would ye would prove your strength and hardiness here by winning of Nola, a city of the country, set in the plain fields, being compassed with neither flood nor sea, and than I shall other lead or follow you, being laden with so rich a prey, to what place so ever you will.  
¶ notwithstanding, neither these reproaches, nor his entisynges could prevail to strength their hearts: they were beaten back on all sides. The hearts of the Romans did increase, not only by their capitains exhortinge, but also by the Nolanes stering and kindling their courage to battle. At length the Carthaginenses fled, and were driven back to their tents. And Marcellus brought his soldiers to Nola with great joy and thanks of the people, whose hearts before were most inclined to the Carthaginenses. There were slain that day above a. M. of their enemies, and one thousand vi C. taken, of standards and banners twenty and four elephants slain in the battle: There were not a. M. Romans slain. The next day truce was taken, which they spent in burying the dead bodies. Marcellus made oblation to Vulcan with the spoil of his enemies. within three days after, either for displeasure, or hope of more wages. M. two. C. lxxii. of Numidian horsemen and spaniards fled from Hannibal to Marcellus, whose faithful strong help and aid the Romans used in that battle often times after. Than Hannibal sent Hanno again to the Brusians, with the host which he brought before with him from thence: and went himself for the winter to Apulia, and lay about Arpos.  
¶ So soon as Quintus Fabius hard, that Hannibal was gone to Apulia, and that he had brought corn as much as he thought necessary to serve them for the winter, from Nola and Naples to the camp at Suessula, leaving a sufficient garry son there, he moved his camp nigh unto Capua, burning and spoiling their fields: so that they of Capua were constrained) trusting little to their own strength) to come out of the city, and encamp themselves before the walls, fortifyeng them with muniments without the gates. They had vi M. soldiers armed, they could better skill on horseback than on foot. Wherefore the horsemen ever provoked their enemies by skirmishing. Soon after Quintus Fabius the consul removed his tents back from the Campanes, that they might till and sow their ground; neither did he come thither again to destroy any of the fields of the Campanes, before the new corn was come up of a good height, and able to be father for their cattle. Than he came thither again, and caused it to be gathered and brought to Claudius' tents above Sucssula, where he provided for the winter, commanding Marcus Claudius, that he leaving a necessary garrison at Nola for the defence thereof, should send the residue of the soldiers to Rome, lest that they should be both a charge to their friends, and a cost to the common wealth.  
¶ In the end of summer, when all these things were done, came letters from the Scipions, what great and prosperous acts they had done in Spain: but all their money grain and clothing for their soldiers, and sea men was spent. Which being pondered in the Senate, all things necessary were ordained and sent to them. And when these stipends and necessaries were come into spain, the town of Illiturgus was besieged of hasdrubal Mago and Amilcar, the son of Bomilcar, for anger that they had changed their hearts, and yielded them to the Romans. Nevertheless through all these three hosts the Scipions valiantly entered into the town of their friends, not without great fight and slaughter, bringing with them of grain good plenty, whereof they had great need there, exhorting the citizens so valiantly to keep and defend their town, as they perceived the Romans to fight for them. soon after they issued out to assail the great camp, whereof hasdrubal was capitain. Thither came to his succours the other two captains of the Carthaginenses with their two hosts, for there they knew well should be the greatest battle and most business. And than suddenly running out of their tents, they met together and fought. There were of the Carthaginenses at that battle lx M. And of the Romans about xvi M. nevertheless the battle was so prosperous, that the Romans and that our new man hath gotten good experience, the year is past, and a new must be put in his room. How can things prosper, that thus be governed? Now, because I have sufficiently spoken, what manner of men ye ought to choose consuls: I will speak a little of those, to whom the favour of this election hath inclined.  
¶ Marcus Aemilius is one of the sacred priests, whom we can not send from the sacrifice, but we shall want the service due and accustomed to the God's. And you Octacilius have married my sisters daughter, and have children by her: Nevertheless your merits and deserts towards me and my friends are not such, but that I have more respect to the common wealth than to my private business. Every mariner can in calm wether rule the ship, but when the sharp storms arise, the sea being troubled, and the ship tossed with the wind: Than is there need of a man, and a governor. We sail not now quietly, but are with troublous storms almost drowned. Therefore we must provide with great diligence, who shall govern the stern or helm: yea we must thereof take heed before. We have proved thy diligence T. Octacilius in lesser business, wherein truly thou didst not deserve, that we should commit to the any greater charge: For three causes we sent forth a navy the last year, of which thou were governor. first that the border of Africa should have been wasted and destroyed: second that the havens or strands of Italy should have been kept safe for us: And before all things that no succour, stypende or other necessaries, being sent from Carthage to Hannibal, should have free passage. I am content that ye make T. Octacilius consul, if he can prove, that he did perform to the common wealth any of these things to him committed. But if thou being captain of the navy, all that was sent from Carthage to Hannibal had as free passage, as though the sea had been open: And if the borders of Italy this year were more endangered than the borders of Africa: what canst thou allege for thyself, that thou shouldest be chosen chief capitain against Hannibal? it appertaineth to no man more than to the T. Octacilius, to take heed that such a burden be not laid on thy neck, the weight whereof will poise the down. I do admonish and persuade you all, that in choosing your consuls at this time, ye use the same circumspection, that ye would use, if ye were driven to choose twain to govern your battle, when ye being in harness on the plain against your enemies, were ready to fight with them. Trasymenus, and the example of Cannas, are very sorrowful to be remembered: but they are right profitable, and a good document, to be ware of such an other.  
¶ After this oration, the prerogative of the young men was called in again: And than went they to a new election: in the which Quintus Fabius himself was created the fourth time consul: and Marcus Marcellus the third time. These were created without any variance: Nother did any man suspect Quintus Fabius of covetousness of rule and governance: but rather they praised the nobleness and courage of his heart. For that when he saw, that the common wealth did want a good capitain, and knew himself without doubt to be one: esteemed the envy, that he should have (if any should arise of that matter) less than the profit of the common wealth.  
¶ When all things were ordained with great care and diligence for the wars in all parts, the Campanes marveling of the great and exquisite ordinance of the Romans, which was moche greater than it was wont to be, and fearing greatly, lest they would that year begin war upon them: they sent legates to Hannibal incontinent, desiring him to move his army to Capua, showing him, that the Romans host was chosen and proscribed to besiege Capua, for that the defection of them was more displesantly taken of the Romans, than of any city in Italy. And because the matter was so fearfully pronounced unto him, he made the greater speed to come thither before the Romans. When he had been there a season, he left certain of the Numidians and spaniards to defend the city, and went himself to the lake of Avernus, under the colour to make sacrifice. Not withstanding his pretence was to set on Puteolus, and them that were left there in garrison.  
¶ When Fabius Maximus heard, that Hannibal was gone from Arpos, and turned again to Campania, without resting night or day, he went to the hest, and caused T. Gracchus to remove from Luceria to Beneventum, and made Quintus Fabius his son to abide in his place at Luceria: and himself came to Cassilinum, intending to besiege it, and the Carthaginenses that were therein. The same time (as it were a thing appointed) Hanno came from the Brusianes with a great host of horsemen and footmen, to Beneventum: but it chanced so, that Titus Gracchus came from Luceria thither somewhat before him, and entered the town. And when he heard, that Hanno had pitched his tents iii miles from the town, at a water called Calor, and wasted the country, he went himself out of the town, and pitched his tents a mile from his enemy, and there he had an assemble of soldiers, whereof the most part were of bondmen, that had been in the war the year before. These bondmen thought by their deserts to be made free, before they would desire it openly: not withstanding he perceived a murmur of some ofthem, complaining and saying: Shall we never be free, and do battle like free soldiers and citizens: Whereof he wrote letters to the senate, as well of their desire, as of their deserving, saying, that he had ever unto that day had their good faithful and strong help, and that they wanted nothing that belonged to good and just soldiers, saving liberty. Concerning that matter it was permitted unto him, to do that which he should think meet for the profit of the common wealth. Whereupon before he would do battle with his adversary, he showed his men, that the time was come, in which they might obtain their liberty, that they so long desired and hoped after. for the next day they should fight in a fair and plain field, where the battle should be done without any fear of disobeyed, with clean strength and hardiness, and he that then would show the head of one of his enemies, stricken of in battle, should straight way be made free: and he that fled, should be punished with vile servitude for ever. Wherefore now (said he) every man's fortune lieth in his own hands. For the confirmation of which his words, he said, that he alone was not the author of their liberty: but that Marcus Marcellus the consul, and the father's conscript were agreeable to the same. And thereof he had sent him their letters, which he showed and read unto them. At these his words there arose a great noise among them, desiring battle incontinent, if it might so please him. Than Gracchus let the Convocation pass, and appointed the battle against the next day. The soldiers were very glad, and in especial those, which supposed their wages for one day to be perpetual liberty.   

¶ The battle between Hanno and Gracchus, with the reward and also the punishment awarded by Gracchus to certain bondmen of his host. Capi. xxxiiii.  
THe next day, when the trumpets blewe to battle, they came together in good array, and anon upon the son rising Gracchus brought his soldiers in to battle. And their enemies made no tarrying for their part. There were of them xvii. thousand footmen, and one. M. two. hundred horsemen, the battle was very sharp, and lasted iiii. hours, not knowing which should have the victory. There was nothing troubled the Romans more, than the heads of their enemies, which Gracchus had appointed to be the price of their liberty. Wherefore ever as they had stricken down any of their enemies, they would strike of his head, and bear it in their hands in stead of weapon. Which thing Gracchus apperceiving, commanded, that every man should leave the head that he had in his hand, and take his weapon and fight. Than the battle began more fierce than before, the captains on both parts exhorting their men to fight. Gracchus showed his people, that if their enemies were not that day put to utterance, they should never look for their liberty. When the soldiers heard him say so, their hearts were so kindled, that they ran fresh upon their enemies with so great violence, that they were not able to sustain their might and courage, but incontinent fled toward their camp. The Romans following and pursuing them, made a greater slaughter in the flight, than they did before in the battle. There escaped not of the hole host, above ii M. which fled with their captain away, the most part were horsemen, all the residue were other slain or taken. There were not slain of the romans passing two thousand. when they were returned in to their tents, laden with their great pray four ●. of the bondmen, which had done evil their devoir that day in battle, had gotten a little hill not far from the tents, who were fetched again the day following by the Tribunes, and came to the convocation or court holden by Gracchus to the soldiers: wherein he rewarded the old soldiers as he thought every one had deserved. Than as concerning the bondmen he said, that he had rather, that both worthy and unworthy should that time be praised of him than punished: Nevertheless, because it had chanced well to the common wealth and to them, he commanded that all should be free, at which commandment all at once thanking him, desired all wealth to the Romans and to him. Than said Gracchus: Now have I fully performed my promise of liberty to you all universally: nevertheless to th'intent it may be known, that I will put difference between well doing and evil doing, between virtuous courage, and cowardness, I will that ye bring me the names of all those, which departed from the field the day before. That done, he caused them all to be sworn, that none of them should other eat or drink otherwise than standing (unless they were diseased) so long as they seryed in the wars. This punishment (said he) ye shall patiently take, if ye consider with yourselves, that I could not have noted you with a less mark for your cowardice than that is. Than commanded he them to truss up their stuff: which done, the soldiers with great praise came to Beneventum, not like men that came from battle: but as merry as though they had come from a banquet. The citizens received them marvelous thankfully, and desired Gracchus, that he would suffer the soldiers to feast with them, which he granted.  
¶ Whiles these things were done at Beneventum, Hannibal wasting the fields of the Neapolitans, moved his tents to Nola. Which when the consul Marcellus perceived: he sent for Pomponius the praetor to meet him, with the hosts that lay at Suessula, intending that they both together, would meet him, and he sent Claudius Nero with a strong company of horsemen out of the town by night, to compass Hannibal on the other side, commanding him, that when he saw the battle was begun, he should set upon his enemies at their backs. Which his device Nero could not bring to pass, either because he knew not the cumbersome ways of the country, or else for that the shortness of the time would not suffer him. Marcellus in the morning met with his enemies, and gave them battle: in the which he had the victory, and caused his enemies to flee. nevertheless he durst not follow them, because he wanted his horseman. Wherefore he caused his men to recoil. There were ii thousand of their enemies slain, and not four hundred of the Romans. Nero and the horsemen, labouring in vain the night and the day, without seeing his enemies, came home about the son set. for which his vain journey, he was sore rebuked of the consul, saying, that he was the cause as than, that their enemies had not received as great loss, as they gave at Cannas. The next day the Romans descended into the fields, but Hannibal kept him in his tents, knowledging himself to be overcome. And the third day, without hope of optayning Nola, trusting to have better speed, removed to Tarentum.  
¶ Quintus Fabius, the other consul, had his tents at Cassilinum, which was kept with ii M. of the Campanes, and seven. C. of Hannibal's soldiers. He caused Marcellus to come to him with his host, And if that the Nolans thought themselves not safe from Annibal, that they should send to Beneventum to Gracchus, to come to their succours. which thing done, Cassilinum was quickly won, and the soldiers that were there, as well of Annibals as of Capua, were taken, and sent to Rome, and there put in prison. There were taken by Fabius at that time many cities in Italy, and in them to the numbered of xxv M. of Hannibal's soldiers and friends taken and slain, beside iii C. lxx. vagabonds and runaways, which were taken and sent to Rome, and there whipped with rods, and after put to death.   

¶ The cities of Sagunt in spain, and Arpos in Italy at won by the Romans, king Syphax is become friend to the Romans, & is overcome in battle by Massanissa. Ca xxxv.  
THere were the same year in Spain many battles between Mago, and hasdrubal the captains of Carthage, and the Scipions. for before the Roman captains could pass the river of Iberus, Mago and Hasdrubal had slain a great numbered of Spaniards, friends to the Romans, and had obtained the utter part of spain, had not the Scipions come in time: whose coming stayed the wavering minds of many of that country. And there was betwixt the two captains great and many battles fought, in the which the Romans had always the upperhand: and in sundry battles slew great armies of the Carthaginenses and their friends, wan divers towns and castles, brought their enemies to so low an ebb, that of a long season they were glad to rest, doing no act worth memory. Than the Roman capytaines, remembering that the city of Sagunt had been so long oppressed with the yoke of dominion of the Carthaginenses, they removed their host thither, and wan the city again, which they restored to the old inhabitants thereof, that were left on live. Than they invaded the Turditans, who were the first causers of the war with the Carthaginenses, whom they won shortly, and destroyed their cities. These deeds were done in Spain, Quintus Fabius Maximus, and Marcus Claudius Marcellus being consuls. Than the officers for the year to come, were chosen at Rome: where Quintus Fabius the younger, son to the old Consul, was chosen one of the consuls: and Titus Sempronius Gracchus the other: Than all the other officers in order. When to every captain was assigned his host and ward: the wars against Hannibal were committed to the consuls: Sempronius went to the Lucanes, and Fabius to Apulia. The father went as legate to the son, to show him of the mind of the senate. This young Fabius lay than at the camp above Suessula: who hearing that his father was come to him as ambassador from the senate, came forth to meet him in his royal estate, with his xii sergeants before him: but xi. of his sergeants, beholding the majesty of old Fabius, as he came riding, passed by, and nothing said to him. Than the son being consul, commanded the xii sergeant to take heed to his office. He also with a loud voice commanded his father to descend from his horse. Than incontinent his father alighted, and said: I did this son, only to prove whither thou didst know, that thou art Consul or not. and so proceeded forth with him, declaring as was given him in charge.  
¶ Soon after came to the same consul into the camp oone Classius Altinius with his three sergeants, from the town of Arpos, promising for a good reward to deliver to him Arpos. This matter was debated among the counsel, and by the more part agreed, that this Altinius should be scourged and slain, as an inconstant traitor and common enemy, considering that first he, after the battle of Cannas, was causer of the yielding the town to Hannibal, changing his fidelity as fortune changed. And now again, seeing the power of the Romans to begin to rise in prosperity, he would begin a new treason. Wherefore they thought it not to be suffered, but that he should be ordered as an untrue fellow and a vain enemy.  
¶ Against which their determination spoke old Q. Fabius, saying, that they ought to consider the perilous time of war, and so to proceed, that they lose none of their faithful friends by any occasion or example that they did show: but by all means possible, if any of their friends were fallen from them, to find mean to purchase them again. And when any of them knowledgeth their offences, and desireth to return to their old amity: with great gentleness to receive them. for in case ye will admit it to be more heinous for our friends to return again to us, than it is for them to go from us, there is no doubt, but shortly we shall see the most part of our friends in italy leave our friendship, and ally themselves with Hannibal. Nevertheless (saith he) I will not advise you to give moche faith to Altinius, but keeping a good mean, neither repute him as an enemy, nor trust him as a friend: but that he be sent to some of your cities near adjoining, there to be safely kept, till the wars be ended: at which time we may at length consult, whether the first his departing from us hath deserved more punishment, than his retourue hath deserved pardon. This his advise took place. He was sent with his company to Cales. And the Consul determined, to besiege Arpos. Wherefore following his purpose, he pitched his camp within a mile of the town where he might view the town, and there perceived on the one part thereof, which was lest used, a low gate and a narrow. To this gate he appointed certain good captains, and vi C. active soldiers, to bear scaling ladders about iii of the clock in the morning before day, commanding them, first to assay to scale that tower: which done, than on the inner part to break down the walls or the gate, and being masters of part of the town, by the sown of a horn, to give him knowledge, whereby he with the rest of his host might approach to their succour. This his devise with speed was executed. And the chance was such, that one thing, which was thought would be a great let of their purpose, best holp them, and deceived their enemies: which was, that about the mids of the night, there fell so great abundance of rain, with so vehement a storm, that the watch men were of force driven, leaving their appointed places on the walls, to descend and enter into their houses: where abiding a good season, they fell on sleep. In this while had the Romans scaled the walls, and were busy to break up the gates. Whose noise was not heard of the watchmen: so rude was the storm, and such noise made the huge rain. Than blewe they horns, at whose sound the consul drew near, and about the break of the day entered the city by the broken gate. Than was their entre descried. There was of Hannibal's men in that town .v. M. soldiers, the town also had armed iii thousand men, which towns men the Carthaginenses caused to go in the front of the battle, mistrusting to have them behind at their backs. After a little skirmishing in the streets, divers of the towns men of Arpos, and certain of the Romans, which were before of acquaintance, began to common and talk together. first spoke the Romans, & said: O ye men of Arpos, what do ye mean, to take part with these barbarous nation against your own country men? Wherein have the Romans offended you? or what have the Carthaginenses deserved unto you, that ye should thus travail to make Italy subject & tributary to Africa? The Arpin's excused themselves, saying, that they were betrayed & sold by their captains to the Carthaginensis, & almost utterly destroyed. Their communication stayed the fighting. And after a certain space, the praetor or governor of the town was brought by his men to the consul: Where they so well agreed, that incontinente the Arpines took the part of the Romans against the Carthaginenses. There were also in the town about a thousand spaniards, who all in likewise turned to the Romans: but first they obtained of the Consul; that the garrison of the Carthaginenses might freely departed the town, to go at their liberty: Which was truly performed. They departed to Salapia, where Annibal was, and the town incontinent was delivered to the Romans, without loss of any of their army.  
¶ The Scipions in this space had brought their business prosperously to pass in Spain, both in conserving their old friends, and getting of new: besides this suddenly they had comfort to do good in Africa, by the reason of one Syphax a king of Numidia, who as than was become an enemy to the Carthaginenses. To this king were sent iii legates, that should bring him in amity with the Romans, and also cause him to make war upon the Carthaginenses. This message was also very acceptable to Syphax. Whereupon he reasoned with the legates, that were expert men of war, and perceived many things, wherein he and his men before were ignorant. Wherefore when they would have departed, he entreated them, that two of them would return home to their captains, to desire a sure alliance between him and the Romans, and to ascertain them of his full mind: and that the third of them might remain still with him, to be governor of his army, saying that his men were good horse men, but they were nothing skilful to fight on foot. To this his request they agreed, and departed, taking the kings oath and promise, that in case their captains would not agree thereto: that incontinent their fellow, which was left behind, should be sent home to them again. The name of him that remained with king Syphax, was Statorius, who anon chose out a great numbered of young and active men, whom he taught to follow their banners, and to keep their array after the Roman fashion: So that in short space, Syphax thought himself able, both on horseback and on foot, to give battle to the Carthaginenses. Thus was there a safe band of peace and amity between the Romans and Syphax.  
¶ When the Carthaginenses were ware thereof, they sent incontinent messengers to one Gala, king of the other part of Numidia. This Gala had a son of xvii years of age, a noble and wise youngman, called Massanissa. The ambassadors showed the king, that better it were for him, with their help to overcome Syphax betime: than by his means the Romans should have any entre into Africa.  
¶ With such words, they persuaded Gala to the war: and much the sooner, for that Massanissa his son desired to be governor of that army. whereupon the army of the Carthaginenses was joined to Massanissa his army. And at the first battle Syphax was overcome, and xxx M. of his men slain: so that with a few horsemen he fled to the Mauritaynes, that inhabited nigh the Gades or pillars of Hercules, where he gathered a new army of men, thinking to sail over into Spain: but ere ever he could take the water, Massanissa, with his army, come again on him, and without the help of the Carthaginenses, fought a noble battle with him, and overcame him.   

¶ Hannibal through the treason of Nico and Philomenes, winneth the city of Tarent. Cap. xxxvi.  
ANniball this season ever having hope, that the city of Tarent should, by one mean or other, be won, as is before said, made his abode not far from that city. And to bring his opinion to his purpose, there happened a fortunate chance by the means of one Phileas a Tarentine, who long time had tarried at Rome, as a messenger of the Tarentines. There were than at Rome divers pledges of the noble blood of Tarent, kept in gentle keeping. To these pledges this Phileas found the mean to have often recours, and at length he so corrupted the keepers, that they suffered them to departed out of the city in the beginning of the nyghtis and Phileas went with them to guide them by secret ways. In the morning yarly the fame of the pledges departing was spread abroad through the city, and a great numbered pursued them with speed: so that before they had far travailed, they overtook them, & brought them all back again into the city: Where for their offences, judgement was given, that they should be first scourged with rods naked, and than brought to a high rock: from the top whereof they should be thrown down to the ground.  
¶ This cruel end of those nobles offended much the minds of divers cities in Italy and Grece, specially those that were of kin or by amity allied to any of them that were slain: among which sort xiii of the nobles of Tarent conspired against the Romans, of whom the captains and chief were Nico and Philomenes. They were great hunters, and used moche to issue out of the city in the night to go on hunting. Wherefore by the colour of going on huntynge, they went toward the army of Hannibal, intending to speak with him, and to declare unto him their intentes. When they came near the camp, they two leaving their company in a wood near adjoining, went to the camp: and anon were taken of the watchmen, and brought to Hannibal, as their request was: to whom they declared their purpose and good will. And he gave them great thanks, and sent them home again looded with fair promises. And to cover the better their devise, he willed them to drive with them certain cattalle of the Carthaginenses, saying, they had gotten that pray of their enemies: which they were suffered to do without resistance: and brought them home to Tarent with joy. This used they to do oftentimes: so that it was thought marvel, that they so often enterprised such feats, and ever escaped unslain. Thus often they used, and ever when they killed any venison, or brought any pray from the Carthaginenses (which they were suffered to do at all times at their pleasures) they either gave it to the capitain of the city, a Roman, or else to the porter of the gates: so that they had brought the porter in such a custom, that when so ever Philomenes did but whistle, at all times of the night, the gates were opened unto him.  
¶ When they had brought all things in this good case for their purpose, they went to Hannibal, and agreed with him on this covenant, that the Tarentines should live ever under their own laws and customs. Also that they should pay him no Tribute, nor have any army appointed by Hannibal to keep the city, but at their own pleasure. And that they should enjoy all their goods. Only that the soldiers of the Romans, which were in the city, and their goods, should be at the pleasure and will of Hannibal. Than lay Hannibal iii days journey from Tarent, and because he would not have his long abode there, to be suspect, he feigned himself to be sick, and caused it to be bruited abroad, that his sickness was the cause of his long lying in that one place. But against the time he would have the town, he chose out ten thousand horsemen, and of the lightest footmen of his army: and removed from his camp in the night, making speed till he came within xu mile of Tarent, where he secretly abode, charging his men, in no wise to break their array or order: but that they should beredy to do what their captains did command them, and none other. But first, ere he set forth, to cover the better his removing, and to th'intent that none of the country should descry his army: he sent four score Numidians light horsemen, to go before him, charging them to overrun the country, by which he with his army should pass. And if they overtook any men, to bring them back. And if they met with any, they should slay them to the intent it should be thought by the inhabitants as they went, that they were robbers and thieves, and not men of war. The fame of their robbing came to the ears of the Roman captain at Tarent: who took but small regard thereto, thinking sith Hannibal himself was sick, and his army so far of, that he would the next day send forth certain of his men of arms, to drive away those robbers, and to save the corn and cattle of his friends. The same night, in the dead part thereof, removed Hannibal toward Tarent, having Philomenes with him, as his guide. When they came nigh to the town, it was appointed, that Philomenes should enter the town, with a numbered of men in harness, at the gate, where he was wont to enter, bringing his pray from hunting. When he came thither, he awaked the porter, saying, that he had brought a great bore that he had slain. At the first call the porter opened the gates: and first let in two young men of his company: than entered he, and other his servants, plucking in the great boor. at whose greatness while the keeper was daring and musing, Philomenes suddenly slew him with his boor spear or hunting staff: and incontinent let in xxx other men in harness, who slew the other watchmen of the said gate: and without noise let in the rest of the army, and secretly brought them into the market place, where they abode a space without making any noise. Whiles this was done at one gate, Annibal, with a great numbered with him, came privily toward an other gate, and a far of he made a great fire, which was a sign or token made between him and Nico, who abode with other his complices, ready within the town, looking for his coming. Which fire when Nico perceived, he (as it were answering to the same) made him an other fire. And when either perceived other, incontinent both their fires were suddenly put out. And Hannibal began to approach with his army to the gates. Nico also within the city, came to the porters ward, which he found open, and finding the watch on sleep, slew all the keepers thereof, and opening the gates, let Hannibal and his company of footmen entre: for the horsemen were commanded to abide in the plains without, to do there as need required. Thus they entered the town, and making no noise, came into the market place, where they met with Philomenes, and his other company. Than had he in his company ii M. french men, which he divided in three parts, and sent them to divers parts of the city. The africans and the Tarentynes he caused to keep the most accustomed streets of the town: commanding them, to slay all the Romans, but in any wise to spare the Tarentine citizens. And to that purpose he appointed the said young gentlemen of Tarent, that were his helpers and friends, to be in the company of the other his soldiers. So that when they saw any citizens, they should comfort them, bidding them, not to be afraid: for they should have no hurt. Than began a great rumour and noise to be raised in the town, as is ever, where so sudden chance happeth. The capitain at the first noise, doubting treason, fled to the haven, and from thence, in a small boat, passed over into the castle.  
¶ when the day appeared, and that the harness and arms of the Carthaginenses were perceived, and also of the frenchmen, with the death of so many Romans: than was it manifest, that Hannibal had won the town. Whereupon the Romans that might escape, fled into the said castle. Than caused Hannibal the citizens to assemble together without armure, to here his pleasure, which they all obeyed. There did he declare unto them, the love and great affection that he hath ever borne unto them, and the gentleness that he had showed unto them at the battle of Trasymenus, and the battle of Cannas, when he sent unto them such of their friends, as he had taken captives, without any hurt, impediment, or ransom. And after he expressed, with great invectives, the cruel and proud dominion, that the Romans ever had over them. From the which he was come to deliver them: willing every one of them of the city, to return home to his house: and with speed to write his name on the door of his own house. for incontinent he would send his soldiers to spoil and destroy such houses, as had not the names entitled on the doors: Charging them on pain of death, that none of them should write his name upon the door of any Roman: for that was the mark, whereby his men might know the houses of his friends, from those of his enemies.  
¶ With this exhortation he licenced every man to depart home, and within a certain space, he gave a sign to his soldiers, to spoil the houses of the Romans. Which was done, and good spoil thereof taken. On the morrow he determined to assault the castle: but when he saw the strong natural site thereof, being half compassed with the sea, beating on the great high rocks, and on the other half having great dyches and high walls toward the town: he was loath to spend his time in the assaulting thereof, and to leave other great things not followed. Nevertheless being loath to leave his friends the Tarentines, open to all invasions of the men of arms of the Castle. (For to the town they might at all times have access at their pleasure) he thought to make a wall and dyche on the town side, between them and the castle. And he had this opinion, that when the dyche were casting, the Romans would adventure to make excursion on the labourers, to let his work and purpose. And he intended, that if they so fiercely would do, so to dispose his men privily in imbushmentes: that such slaughter of them should be made, that they should not be able after to hurt the town. And even as he thought, so come it to pass. For so soon as the work was begun, anon the gate of the castle was set open, and the Romans came on the workmen and Carthaginenses, with such violence, that anon they gave back, and somewhat the more purposely, to enhance their hearts and courage, and to allure them further from their hold. But anon, at a certain token given, the imbusshement broke out, and with such force invaded the Romans, that they fled back with moche speed toward the castle: but than was the street so narrow, by which they must pass, and they so troubled with the baggage of the labourers, that lay in their way, that many more were slain in the fleinge, than were before in fighting. Thus was the power of the Castle, left so small, that afterward their works were never let, but that the deep dyche and wall were made in such wise, that he needed not to leave any garrison in the town. Never the less for their safeguard he left a certain of his soldiers: and he with the rest of his army removed five miles from thence to the river of Galesus, where he pitched his tents. Soon after he returned to view the strength of the Castle: and thought it might be won with a saute. whereupon he caused all manner of engines to be made, and set up against the walls: to the great fear of them of the Castle. But suddenly in the night came a certain of ships of men of war, from Metapontus, which than was holden with Romans, and entered the haven: by whose help they of the Castle threw down, and burned all the enginings and munymentes of the Carthaginenses. Whereby Hannibal lost his hope of winning the castle by any assault: but than he imagined, by continual siege to famish them. Which purpose also served him nothing. For they of the castle had the sea free on the one side, where they received victuals at their pleasure: And the Romans, being masters of the haven, kept all provision from the city, that was wont to come by water. So that they were moche more like to endure famine, than the other of the castle, whom they besieged. Wherefore Hannibal, mistrusting the strength of the place, called the rulers of Tarent before him, and said:  
¶ I behold the nature, the site, and all the strength of this castle, and I can not see, that any assault can prevail, so long as our enemies be lords of the sea, and have that at liberty. But if we may (said he) have ships, which may restrain victuals to be brought to them: either they will departed thence, or yield unto us. To this the Tarentines agreed well: but they said, that he must help, that some of the navy of Carthage, which were in Sicilia, might be caused to come thither, to keep the said port. Why (said Hannibal) have you no ships of your own. Yes truly (said they) but they lie here in a little creke, and so long as our enemies have the dominion of the mouth of the haven, how can they ever escape in to the broad seas? Yes said Hannibal fear it not. for many things, that naturally be letted, by wit and policy may be brought to pass. Your city is situate on a plain and even ground, and your streets and ways be broad, to pass to all parts. Your ships will I convey through the high way, that leadeth through the middle of your city, upon wanes and wheels, unto the haven, with small charge. And the sea shall be ours, that now our enemies be lords of. Than both by sea and by land, we will compass them: so that shortly they shall be driven to forsake the castle, or else we shall take both them and it also.  
¶ This his wise device made all men to have wonder and admiration of him, with also a hoop of a good success of his purpose. Forth withal wanes and carts were gathered and tied together. Than were engines made, to raise and to draw up the ships, and the ways made hard, even, and level, that they might the more easily be drawn on them. Thus with strength of beasts and men, the ships were brought to the haven, and in few days garnished with men and all things necessary, and brought round about the castle, casting their anchors before the mouth of the haven.   

¶ Fuluius Flaccus the Roman consul, winneth the camp of Hanno, sleeth and taketh a great number of men with a rich prey. Mago sleeth Titus Gracchus and many Romans, through the treason of Flavius a Lucan. Capitu. xxxvi.  
Whiles Hannibal was thus occupied about the business of Tarent, Quintus Fuluius Flaccus, and Appius Claudius, that were chosen consuls for that year, were come with both their armies into the parties of the Samnites: and the rulers of Capua feared greatly, lest they did intend shortly to besiege their city. Also plenty of corn began than to fail them. for the legions of the Romans had so invaded their country, that the Campanes durst neither till nor sow their grounds. wherefore they sent legates unto Annibal, desiring him, to cause plenty of wheat to be brought to Capua, from the country adjoining: before that the consuls did enter their country with their armies. Whereupon Hannibal sent messengers to Hanno, that he should come from the Brusians with his army into Campania: And to make provision, that the Campanes might have good plenty of corn sent to them.  
¶ Hanno (as he was commanded) leaving the Samnites, and the Consuls, passed by, till he came within iii miles of Beneventum: where on a mountain he pitched his camp, and in towns of his friends adjoining, to which great plenty of wheat the summer before had been carried, he made goodly provision for the Campanes, and sent word secretly to Capua, what day they should, with all the veins and carts that they could assemble in the country, resort to the said places, for to fet away their said wheat. The Campanes, lightly and slenderly foreseeing their business and wealth, at the day assigned, came thither, bringing with them but four hundred carts: which their sloth Hanno greatly rebuked, marveling, that they would no more hedily avoid hunger which all brute beasts labour to eschew. Wherefore he sent them home laden, and appointed them another day, to return again for a moche greater quantity.  
¶ This appointment came to the ears of the Beneventanes. Whereupon incontinent they sent ten messengers to the consuls, certifyenge them of all the Campanes purpose. And they forthwith agreed, that Fuluius, with his army should go to Beneventum, and enter the town, in the night, keeping him close therein, till he saw time apt for his purpose. So soon as Fuluius was entered Beneventum, it was showed him, that Hanno with a part of his army was gone forth for wheat: and that ii M. wayns were come to the camp with a great rude sort of people unarmed, where they lay mingled among the soldiers, keeping no order after the use of men of war. This known, the consul commanded his men to be ready with their banners & armure: for the next night he would assail the Campanes, and the tents of the Carthaginenses. They executing his commandment made them ready, and about four of the clock, they set forth of the town, and came to Hannos camp, a little before the dawning of the day. At their first coming, with their sudden noise, the Carthaginenses became so fearful, that if the camp had be pitched on plain ground, they had won it with small resistance: but the height of the hill, with the defences that they had made thereabout, was such, that they could no way get up unto them: but by great steps and climming. In the dawning of the day the battle began to wax strong, the Carthaginenses not only defended their camp, but also they kept the hill without, ever throwing down the Romans that strove wondrously to climb the place. Nevertheless at length by great pain and travail, and also with great loss and hurt of men, they got to the ditches of the camp. The consul advising well the mischief that should fall to his company, in winning the place, called the tribunes unto him, saying: that he would no further at that time pursue his foolish enterprise, but that he would return for that day to Beneventum. And on the morrow he would join his camp to the camp of his enemies: so that the Campanes should not issue out, nor Hanno have recours again to them, when he were returned. And to bring this better and more surely to pass, he would send for his fellow Claudius the consul, with his army to assist him therein: when the tribune caused the retreat to be swooned, his soldiers, that were earnestly busy about their enterprise, would give none care thereto. Among other there was one Vibius, a captain of a company of the Pelignes, who straight took his banner in his hand, and with force threw it over the ditch into the camp of the Carthaginenses. Than said he: evil might I far and my company, if mine enemies shall enjoy my banner. Than by great force he lightly went over the ditch, & claim up, and entered the camp of his enemies: whom his company boldly followed. While they thus fought within the camp of the Carthaginenses, on an other part cried Valerius Flaccus: what sluggish cowards are we now waxed? shall the Pelignes win the honour of taking the camp of our enemies before us Romans? Whereupon Titus Pedanius a capitain of a hundred men, took his standard in his hand from his standard bearer, saying: This standard will I bear in to the field of mine enemies, follow me sirs as many as would be loath of the loss thereof. And anon he and his company were gotten into that other part of the camp. The consul perceiving their hardiness, changed his mind of calling them away, and began to comfort them: exhorting the rest, to help their fellows, that so valiantly fought in the camp of their enemies. By whose hearty words, every man enforced himself to enter, not regarding the darts nor weapons of their enemies, as people fearing no peril: And as people that cared not for death, so they might die in the camp of their enemies. Thus within short space, that strong place was won, & above vi. M. slain, & vii M. taken, with the men of Campania, that came for corn, with all their carts, and a rich pray that Hamno before had gotten in the fields of the friends of the Romans. Which pray the consuls sold (for by that time was Claudius also come thither) & therewith rewarded their men, specially Vibius and Pedanius. When Hanno heard of the loss of his people, he fled back again to the Brutianes', with a few men which he had taken with him, to get in the wheat for the Campanes.  
¶ The Campanes, hearing of the loss of their men & friends, sent to Annibal, showing him, that both the consuls were at Beneventum, within a days journey of Capua, intending to lay siege to their city. And it was to be feared, lest (if he did not shortly secure them) that the Romans would win and destroy that city. They said further, that neither the castle of Tarent, nor the town also, aught to be so much esteemed of him, as Capua. the nobleness whereof he knew well himself. In so much that he was wont to compare it unto Carthage. Wherefore they trusted, that he would not leave it undefended, to have it spoiled and destroyed by the romans.  
¶ Annibal herring this message, showed to the ambassadors, what love he bore unto their city, promising to be ever a defender thereof. With these gentle words he sent them home again, & he sent with them also ii M. horsemen, by whose help they might defend their fields from robbing and wasting.  
¶ In the mean while P. Cornelius the praetor, with certain ships, laden with wheat, came into the haven of Tarent, through the hole power of the Carthaginenses. He caused also such soldiers as were at Metapontus in garrison, to come to the castle of Tarent, there to remain for the defence thereof: by whose coming, they of the castle were than sure from any hurt of their enemies. but so soon as the inhabitants of Metapontus were delivered of the Roman garrison, they incontinent fell in league and amity with Hannibal. Whereupon the Thurines, also having a grudge to the Romans, for slaying divers of their friends, as is aforesaid, devised a mean, to bring their city to the amity of Hannibal: The kinsmen of them that were slain, sent messengers to Hanno and Mago, who than were among the Brusians: willing them to come with their army, to lay siege to the town: not doubting, but that one Marcus Attinius, the ruler of a small company of the Romans, left for the defence of the town, would anon be brought to issue out, and to give them battaylle, upon the trust that he had in the young men of arms of the town: whom before he had armed and instructed in the feats of war, after the Roman fashion. And they doubted not, but this sort would do him small pleasure, when he should have most need of them. The two captains, hearing this glad tidings, with speed entered the fields of the Thurines, divyding their company between them. Hanno with the footmen, with banners displayed, in good array, went toward the town: Mago with all the horsemen abode in a valley under certain hills that were nigh the town. Attinius knowing only of the company of footmen, put his men in good array, and with great courage issued out of the town, nothing mistrusting the mischief wrought against him within the town. The battle was quick on the part of the Romans: but the Thurines stood as men that gave the looking on, not as enemies. Hanno with his men of purpose gave back, to draw the Romans into the danger of their horsemen. And when they came near the hills, than they fiercely assailed the romans. and on the other side, Mago with his horsemen came suddenly and eagerly upon them: at the first encountering the Thurines fled into their town, as fast as they could. The Romans for a season maintained the battle: but at the last, being constrained thereto, they also fled toward the town: The traitors, that were causers of all this mischief had gotten to the gate with their power, and against the coming back of the Thurines that fled, they kept open the gates, and received them into the town: but when the Romans came fleeing, also thinking to have entered with the other, they cried: It is time now to shut the gates: for else we shall let the Carthaginenses into the town among our own men, and so lose all. Whereupon they shut their gates, and suffered the Romans to be slain by their enemies without succour. Only Attinius the capitain, who gently had or dered them, while he was ruler there, they suffered to enter with a few with him: and incontinent they gave him a ship in the haven, and bad him save himself by the sea. After whose departing they opened the gates, and received the Carthaginenses.  
¶ Now were the consuls departed from Beneventum, to assault Capua, thinking, that they should make their year happy and honourable to them, if they might win Capua, that was so noble and rich: and revenge them of the injuries, by them before done. Nevertheless, to the intent the Beneventanes should not be left without succours in their absence, they sent to Titus Gracchus, who was than in the country of the Lucan's, commanding him, with his horsemen and other light footmen, to come to Beneventum: leaving with the Lucanes the rest of his men, under some capitain, whom he might trust.  
¶ The Lucan's were then divided, divers towns were rendered up to Hannibal, and certain abode under the Romans jurisdiction: of the which sort the chief ruler that year was one Flavius, a Lucan. This Flavius suddenly was turned in his mind to Hannibal: and to obtain his favour, he sent to Mago, that was than among the Brutians, to come speak with him. When they were met, a composition was made between them, that if he could deliver Gracchus, the capitain of the Roman army, the Lucanes should be friendly received in amity with the Carthaginenses, and live after their own laws. Than brought he Mago to a great covert, where he willed him, with a great numbered of men of arms to hide him: appointing him a time, at which he would bring thither the Roman captain. After this appointment he departed, and went to Gracchus, to whom he showed, that he had begun secretly a great enterprise, which to bring to effect, he must have his help and assistance. I have (said he) moved and persuaded all the princes of the Lucan's, that were gone to the amity of Hannibal, now to return again to the obedience of Rome. I have declared unto them the increase of the Romans power, which daily we may perceive, and the decrease of the strength of the Carthaginenses. And I bade them not mistrust the gentleness of the Romans, whose nature we have ever tried to be meek and gentle to such as have rebelled against them, upon humble submission to them made. With these my persuasions they be all contented to be reconciled: so that they may here you speak the same, laying your right hand in theirs, as a pledge of your faith, whereunto they may trust. And I have (said he) undertaken, that you shall do it, and I have appointed them for that composition a secret place, well out of the way from our company, for fear of espies, yet not far from your camp: where, with few words, you may go through with them in this matter, and by this mean bring all the Lucanes wholly under your jurisdiction.  
¶ Gracchus nothing my strusting deceit and treason to be in his words, took his officers and horsemen with him, all unarmed, and so road to the place appointed, having Flavius with him as a guide. So soon as they were come thither, Mago with his army invaded them suddenly. And to make the treason more evident, Flavius incontinent joined him to the Carthaginenses. Than was there plenty of darts cast at Gracchus, and his horsemen, and when he saw no other remedy, he alight from his horse, and bad his company do the same, exhorting them, sins they were but few in number, and unarmed, in such place, where they could by no way escape, that they would not die like beasts unrevenged, but that with noble hearts they should assail their enemies, and die bathed and besprynkled in the blood of their enemies: whereby they should end in most honour: But specially above all thing (said he) let every of us, seek to slay that Lucan traitor Flavius, not doubting, but who so ever shall send that traitors soul to hell, before he die himself, he shall find the oblation thereof, todoo him much comfort and solace. As soon as he had thus spoken, he threw his clock about his left arm, in stead of his shield, and ran upon his enemies, who with their darts and weapons, slew most part of the Romans. And when they saw Gracchus without help, they intended to take him on live: but so soon as he perceived Flavius among his enemies, he ran through the thickest of them, with such force, to have slain him, that they were there constrained to slay him, or else he had done them great hurt. Whose body Mago caused to be brought to Hannibal, and he caused it to be buried with moche honour.   

¶ Centenius Penula and Cneius Fuluius with their two armies be discomfited and slain by Hannibal in several battles. Cap. xxxviii.  
IN THIS mean season were the consuls entered the fields of the Campanes, their men overspreading the country, robbing, spoiling and wasting in divers places, which being perceived, Mago with his horsemen, by the help of the towns men, issued out suddenly on them: and or ever they could gather together in order of battle, slew of them one thousand, and five hundred. Which loss caused the consuls more circumspectly to work in all their proceedings afterward.  
¶ Hannibal hearing of this prosperous battle of the Campanes in his absence, drew near unto Capua with his army, thinking that the Romans should be moche less able to endure his power joined to the Campanes. Wherefore the third day after his coming, he displayed his banners, and set his company in order and goodly array, ready to fight. The romans likewise made them ready, and the horsemen on both sides fought strongly for a season, till both parts perceived a strange army coming toward them: whereof neither of them were privy. The truth thereof was, that C. Cornelius, than bearing the office of Questor at Rome, had taken the legions, which the year before were under Sempronius, and was coming to the aid of the consuls. but his coming unknown made as well the consul's afraid, as Hannibal: so that as it were by agreement, both parts withdrew to their camps, the Romans having somewhat more loss than the Cartha ginenses. Than the consuls, willing to draw Annibal away from Capua devised the night following to departed away. Fuluius with his host, went to destroy the fields of the Cumans. Appius with his host went to the Lucanes. Hannibal in the morning, having knowledge of their sundry departing divers ways, was a while in doubt, whether of them he might follow: t the last he determined to follow Appius, wherein he was much deceived. For he, leading him a great compass about the countries, at his pleasure, returned again an other way to Capua. Than fortune a while smiling on Hannibal, sent him such chances, that he was a season stayed in those parties. One was the foolish hardy enterprise of one Centenius Penula, a gentleman of goodly stature of body, and of noble courage of mind, correspondent to the same.  
¶ This Centenius, being brought into the senate house by P. Cornelius Silvius, desired of the senators, that he might have delivered him only .v. M. soldiers, with whose help he doubted not, but that with the knowledge that he had, both of the countries and also of the crafty feats of his enemy, he would with the same subtlety and policies deceive Hannibal, by which he before had deceived the Romans. This his unwise promise unto them, was as unwisely believed of them. And where he demanded but .v. M. they gave him viii M. men: and he in the countries as he went gathered together almost as many more, of such as willingly went with him, having hope in his courage and promise. With this number of men he came into the fields of the Lucanes, where Hannibal had rested him and his company, weary of the chase of Appius Claudius. When either of them saw others army, they incontinent put their folk in array. The match was not equal neither of captains nor of soldiers: nevertheless the battle endured more than two hours. Centenius perceiving his part to suffer the worse, and fearing, lest if he should live after his men were slain, he should suffer great shame and infamy during his life, for the loss of such a numbered of men by his foolish enterprise: at the last willingly he entered the thickest press of his enemies, where he was shortly slain, and than his men fled on all parts, but they were so hard chased with horsemen, that of that great company, there escaped scant one thousand.  
¶ One other happy chance fortune sent to Annibal, as it were for a farewell or leave taking of him, before she thought to departed to the Romans: the occasion thereof was, that one Cneius Fuluius, bearing the office of praetor, lay than in Apulia with his host, besieging such towns as before were come to the amity of the Carthaginensis. And in his business he had so well sped, and was become so wealthy and rich, both he and his men, with prays which they had taken, that leaving all good order of war, or the painful pursuit thereof, they were grown into sloth and sluggish idleness. Of their undiscrete order the Appulians sent word to Hannibal by messengers. And he knowing by experience what would follow the governance of an army by an unwise capitane, whereof of late he had the trial by Centenius, with speed he removed into the costis of Apulia. When the Romans had knowledge, that their enemies approached, and were oven at hand: they were all minded to have displayed their banners,. and to have run to battle without the commandment of their captain. The night following, Annibal perceiving their great haste to battle, commanded iii M. of his light men of war, to lie privily hid in woods bushes & coverts, next adjoining, giving them a sign or token, at what time they should issue out, and assail their enemies. Than caused he Mago, with ii M. horsemen, to lie privily in the ways, by which he deemed the Romans would flee after their discomfiture. These things in the night time being wisely disposed, yarly in the morning he came with his host into the fields, putting the rest of his men in goodly array.  
¶ On the other side Fuluius the praetor made no tarrying, being much enforced thereto by the hasty wilfulness of his soldiers: Wherefore with such advisement as they came into the field, with such like advisement were the battles ordered. For every man went to what place him seemed best, and chose his company with whom he would be: and sometime changed his place again at his pleasure. The forward and the left wing were first ordered, and that all in length, and of a small thyknesse. The Tribunes cried to them, to set more strength of men in the middle of their battles, or else their enemies might easily go through them with small force at their pleasure. But they were so wilful and hasty, that they gave no ear to their words. By that time were the Carthaginenses come in good order ready to join: at whose first coming with great noise & bruit, the Romans were put to the worse: whereupon the capitain, seeing all like to go to mischief, took his horse, and with two hundred horsemen with him, fled. The rest, that abode, were almost all slain. for of xviii M. of the company, there escaped not passed ii M. alive. The tents and stuff was also taken by the Carthaginenses, which was a good prey. The tidings of these great sudden losses were brought to Rome, which caused the city to be in great fear and mourning. Nevertheless by cause both the consuls, with their armies were safe, and did somewhat prosper in their affairs, they took the more comfort to them. And incontinent sent messengers to the Consuls, willing them to search for all such as were escaped at these two battles, & that they should be gathered together, and called unto them: lest either for fear or for despair, they would yield them to their enemies, which thing with all diligence they did execute.   

¶ The city of Capua is besieged by the two consuls, Hannibal cometh to the succour of the citizens, giveth the consul's battle, from thence goth to Rome ward with his host, to th'intent thereby to draw the consuls from the siege of Capua. Ca xxxix.  
IN the mean season was Capua compassed & besieged by both the consuls, & great provision of corn made for the same, & laid in garners in the castle of Casselinus Than sent they to Suessula for Claudius Nero the Praetor, who leaving a small garrison there, came himself to them to Capua with all his power. Thus was Capua compassed with three great armies on three parts, and to enclose the citizens the more surely, they prepared to compass the hole city with a great ditch. And thereupon they made many castles a good distance th'one from the other. The Campanes thinking to let their work, issued many times & fought with the Romans but their fortune was ever such, that they lost still of their men, and at the last were constrained to keep them within the walls of their city. but before the work or siege was so strait and strong, they had sent ambassadors to Hannibal, complaining, that he had forsaken them and his city of Capua: and that if he did not shortly secure them, they must yield them to the Romans. To whom Hannibal answered, that of late he had rescued them, and raised their siege ones, and that shortly he would come to help them again, not doubting, but the romans should be unable to resist his power at his coming. With this comfortable message they returned to their city, which they found so compassed with a double dyche, that with pain could they find the mean to enter into it: neither could they have entered, had not the letters of P. Cornelius the praetor been, wherein he advised the consuls, before the dyche should be fully finished, to proclaim, that as many of the Campanes as would issue with their baggage and bags, before a day by him lymitted, should go free where they would, and have their goods their own. After that day, so many as remained, they would take and use as their enemies. But this proclamation was so disdainfully taken of the Campanes, that beside that there would none issue out of the city, they also spoke proud and opprobrious words in despite of the Romans. whereupon the works of the dyche were ended, and the city fully enclosed.  
¶ Hannibal, desirous to secure his great friends of Capua, left all his heavy carriage among the Brucians', and with a great numbered of chosen horsemen and light footmen, hasted thither as fast as he might, and after his host came xxxiii of his elephants. With this army he came to the valley that was under a mountain adjoining to Capua, called Tifata, ere the Romans had any knowledge of his coming. Than sent he spies to the romans host to Capua, commanding them, so soon as he should give them battle on his part, that Bostar and Mago, with the horsemen and garrison of the Carthaginenses, assembling also all the power of the citizens, should suddenly issue out of the city: and with force assail their enemies. This device of Hannibal was executed with so sudden cry and clamor, that the Romans were in great fear and danger. Nevertheless with as great speed as they could, they prepared their battles, and divided their people. Appius Claudius went to withstand the Campanes, and Fuluius went against Hannibal. Claudius was strong enough for his enemies, but Fuluius was hardly handled of the Carthaginenses and Spaniards. One company or legion of his men were driven back, and than a great company of spaniards, with three elephants, had broken the middle ward of the Romans, and were come to the trench of the camp, ready to enter into the tents and camp of their enemies. When Fuluius saw, what danger his people and camp were in, he cried to Q. Nanius, and other petty captains, exhorting them to assail that company of Spaniards, that fought at the ditch: showing them what danger all was in, unless they might soon be confounded, which was easy enough to be done, since there was of them no greater a number. Nanius was a strong man, and of a huge stature. And when he heard the consuls exhortation, anon he took the standard from him that bore it, and commanding his company, boldly to take part with him, he set forth toward the spaniards, with a great courage. As soon as the Spaniards saw him draw near, they threw plenty of darts at him; and began violently to assail him. But he neither being stayed with the multitude of his enemies, nor with the darts that were cast at him, with great force went still forward, till by the help of Marcus Attilius, Portius Lucius, and other, they had slain the elephants, and made great slaughter also of Spaniards.  
¶ On the other part, the Campanes were driven back, with the garrison also of Numidians and Carthaginenses: so that the battle was strong even at the very gate of Capua, that was toward the river of Vulturnus. This gate was garnished with crossbows darts and other such ingyns, whereby many of the romans were wounded by the shot out of the tower of the gate. Among other, the Consul Appius Claudius was sore hurt on the breast under the left shoulder. Nevertheless the citizens with their helpers were driven into the city with great slaughter and loss of their company. Hannibal seeing the slaughter of his Spaniards, and that the Romans so manfully defended their camps, he caused his people to withdraw them, and made the horsemen to abide hyndermoste for the defence of the footmen, if their enemies happened to chase them. The Romans were very eager, and would have followed them in the chase, had not Flaccus caused to sound the retreat.  
¶ In this battle Hannibal wrought one crafty point, he sent divers of his men forth, that could speak the latin tongue, into divers parts of the host of the Romans, which should in the consul's name and behalf declare, that the Roman camps were taken and spoiled. Wherefore he wylled every man to save himself by fleeing to the next mountains, since by longer tarrying, the greater should be their loss. This crafty deceit made many of them amazed: but at the last it was espied, to the great slaughter of their enemies.  
¶ After this battle the Romans kept them in their camps, and so straightly besieged the city, that Hannibal seeing he could no more draw them forth to battle, neither through the camps of the Romans have any way to enter into Capua, fearing lest his victuals should be cut from him and his host: he determined to departed from thence. And than he imagined, that he would go toward Rome, not doubting, but when the roman captains did perceive Rome their head city to be in any danger, that either one or both would leave Capua, and come to the defence thereof. And than their powers being divided, both parts should be the weaker: and he trusted, that either he or the Campanes should have a fair day of some of them. One thing troubled him sore, lest the Campanas seeing his departing from them, would incontinent yield the city to the romans. Wherefore by fair words and great gifts, he had gotten one of Numidia to go with his letters through the camps of the Romans, as one that was run away from the Carthaginenses army: & when he should come to the further part of the host toward the city, than secretly to enter into Capua, and deliver his letters, which were full of comfort, declaring his departing to be for their profit, to th'intent only to withdraw their enemies from Capua, to defend their own city, bidding them not to despair, but to take patience for a season, trusting shortly to lose them of the danger they were in. soon after he departed with his host, and passed the river of Vulturnus, taking the way toward Rome. His coming caused great heaviness in the city. The senators consulted, what was best for to be done in this dangerous case. At length it was agreed, that Q. Fuluius should come from Capua, with a certain legions with him, leaving his fellow at the siege with a numbered sufficient for that purpose. Q. Fuluius, having this commandment, took with him xu M. footmen, and one thousand horse men, and followed Hannibal as speedily as he could. Now was Hannibal come within iii miles of Rome, where he pitched his tents, and made his camp on a river side. And soon after came Quintus Fuluius Flaccus into Rome with his army, and consulted with the senators of the affairs that were to be done touching their enemies. Than took Annibal ii M. horsemen with him, and camme to the walls and gates of Rome, riding from the gate called Porta Collina, to the temple of Hercules, viewing the situation of the city, and the strength of the walls. This bold and high mind of Hannibal, in so doing, Fuluius Flaccus could not suffer: but incontinent sent forth a great numbered of horsemen, who with force drove their enemies to their camp. The next day Hannibal came into the field with his host in good array, ready to give battle. And Flaccus having with him the two new consuls, that of late were chosen, with their powers, made him ready also to battle. Thus when both parts were ready to go together, abiding the chance of fortune, whether of them should be master of the noble city of Rome: there came suddenly on them so vehement a storm of rain and hail together, that both the parts were feign to withdraw them to their Camps. The next day they were likewise ready to join battle, when a like storm also departed them again. And after their departure incontinent the wether waxed very bright and fair, and all the winds ceased, which evil chances took away the hearts and courage from Hannibal and his company, for ever to enjoy the city of Rome. Wherefore having no further hope thereof, he returned back in haste to the Brucians': And the consul Quintus Fuluius returned to Capua to his fellow.   

¶ The oration of Vibius Virius concerning the yielding of Capua, the Romans receive the town, slay the senators, and convert the grounds thereof to the profit of their city of Rome. Cap. xl.  
THe Campanes perceiving the return of Quintus Fuluius, and not of Annibal, judged them selves then to be utterly forsaken of him. Wherefore weeping and mourning the noble men kept them in their houses, looking daily for their own deaths, and destruction of the city. The hole charge of the keeping thereof was in Bostar and Hanno, captains of the garrison of the Carthaginenses. They fearing their own estate, sent privily letters to Hannibal, somewhat sharply written, wherein they blamed him, not only for leaving the city of Capua to the hands of the Romans: but also that ●e, committing his captains and his sure friends and soldiers of his retinue into the hands of his enemies, to suffer torments intolerable, was himself gone to the Brucians', because he would not see before him the taking of Capua. Wherefore they said, in case he would come again to them, and return his hole power thither, they with the hole power of Capua, would be ready to break forth on their enemies, trusting to win thereby moche honour. They said also, that his coming over the mountains was not to war with the Rhegines, or with the Tarentines, but with the Romans: and where the Roman legions were, there should the army of the Carthaginenses also be. And so doing, he had for the most part ever good speed, as at Cannas, at Trasymenus, & divers other places, by giving them battle valiantly.  
¶ These letters were sent by one of Numidia, an espy, that counterfeited himself to be run from the Carthaginenses army for the hunger that daily oppressed the city. Other letters also of the same effect, were sent by divers other Numidians, but it chanced, that a woman, whom one of the messengers had kept as his harlot, feeling great hunger in the city, ran out of the town into the tents of the Roman consul Flaccus, and declared unto him of such an espy, that was in his camp, which had letters to convey to Hannibal. This man was found out. And when he came before her, hedenyed any part of her accusation to be true: he denied also, that he knew the woman. But when he saw torments prepared for him, he confessed the hole truth, and also he confessed, that many other of his fashion were among the romans, who waited but their time, when they might escape from the roman host with like letters to Hannibal. Thereupon search was made, and above lxx of them taken: who were beaten first with rods, and than had their hands stricken of, and were sent again into the city, to their captains.  
¶ When the captains saw that extreme punishment showed to their messengers, their hearts began to fail them. Whereupon Lesius that yererular of the city, called a general counsel: In the which many of the senators moved, that ambassadors should be sent to the roman consuls: but Vibius Virius, who was the chief causer of the yielding of Capua to Hannibal, being demanded of his opinion therein, answered, that all they that spoke of peace taking, or of the yielding of Capua, aught to remember, both what they would have done, if they had had the romans in their power, in like case as they had them, and also what the Campanes were like to suffer, when they were submitted wholly to their pleasure.  
¶ Let us (said he) remember, how leaving their friendship, we submitted us to Hannibal: and not contented therewith, we slew all the Romans left here in garrison with us. And to have the certain knowledge of their hearts and envy toward us, let us call before us their acts done of late against us, and thereby ye shall perceive, what kindness we are like to have at their hands. Hannibal a stranger, and their utter enemy being in Italy, and the country on all parts fulfilled with war: yet they leaving Hannibal, and all other their business, sent both the consuls with their whole armies, to besiege Capua, where we by long continual keeping of the same siege, are almost famished with hunger. but for further proof of their ●●●yee toward us, let us consider, that although Hannibal coming to our succours, had almost won their camps, sayne many of their men, and put them in great jeopardy of losing all that they had: yet all that jeopardous peril of loss never could move them to remove their siege. Afterward when he had passed the river of Vulturnus, bourning the fields of Calenus their faith full friends: yet could not the hurts of them call the captains from our miserable siege. Ye than he caused his banners to be displayed before the walls of the city of Rome, saying: that unless they would leave Capua, he would take their high city of Rome from them. Yet would they not leave the siege of Capua, bears, wolves, and all wild beasts, be they in never so great a rage and fury, if a man go to their caves, where their young whelps lie: anon they will leave all that they are about, and run straight to the defence of their young: but the furious Romans, when Rome was compassed about with their enemies, neither for their wives and their children (whose lamentable weepings might be heard almost hither) neither for their houses, the temples of their God's, nor for fear of violating the Sepultures of their ancestors, could be withdrawn from the siege of Capua, so desirous they be to execute on us grievous punishment: And so sore they do thirst to drink of our blood. And but reason: for happily we should have done likewise to them, if fortune had deserved us. Wherefore since it is the pleasure of the God's, that needs I must die: yet will I choose me a death, both honest and gentle: whereby I will escape the torments and dispites that mine enemies trust to put me unto. When Fuluius and Claudius shall solemnly with triumph enter into Rome, I will not bounden be drawn before them as a spectacle or wondering stock, and after put in prison, or being tied to a post, suffer my body to be scourged, and at last have my head stricken from my body with the axe of Rome, neither will I live to see my country destroyed & bourned, or to see the noble matrons and maidens of Capua ravished and defouled. In the beginning of the flourishing of the city of Rome, the Romans destroyed the city of Alba, and threw it down to the ground: yet had they their original from the same city, what trow ye than they will do to Capua, which they hate more than they do Carthage? Therefore friends, so many of you as be desirous to die, before ye see these so many and so spiteful miseries, come this day to dinner with me, your meat is already dressed: and when we be well filled with wine and good meats, a cup of drink, that I will first drink myself, shall be borne about to every one of you: and that drink shall deliver the body from torments, the mind from rebukes, the eyes and the ears from the sight and hearing of all cruel dispites that be prepared for people that are overcome. After when we shall be dead, our servants shall be ready to throw our bodies into great fires made for the purpose, there to be bourned, and so shall we never come into the hands of our enemies. This is the only honest and free way to die, whereby our enemies shall marvel and wonder at our noble courage. And Annibal shall thereby well perceive, that he hath forsaken and betrayed his valiant and faithful fellows.  
¶ This oration of Vibius was heard and well allowed of many more than had hearts to follow it, or put it in execution. for the more part of the senators said, that they had oft times in wars had experience of the pity and gentleness of the Romans showed to their enemies in such extremity, not mistrusting, but they should find them merciful now to them, upon humble request to them made: and thereupon determined to send legatis to the consul, to yield them up Capua.  
¶ Vibius Virius went home to his house to dinner, whom xxvii. senators followed, where they dined, and drunk plenty of wine, to the intent they might have the less feeling of the last dreadful drink when it came. At the last they all received the poison, and went from the table, taking either other by the hands, and lovingly enbrasing one an other, lamented their own deaths, with the destruction of the country. Some remained there, and died, and were bourned in the fires made for that intent: some went home to their houses, and there made their end: so that before the town was delivered to the Romans, none of them were left on live.  
¶ The next day the gates were opened, and the Romans suffered to enter. Than were all the gates kept by the Romans, that no man should go forth, and first all the armour and weapons were brought to the Roman captain: than were the Carthaginenses of the garrison taken and put in prison. The senators were commanded to go to the consuls, than being in their tents, from whence such as were most consenting to the receiving of Annibal, were sent to sundry prisons xxv to Cales, and xxviii to Theanus, until it was agreed, what punishment they should have. Their gold and silver was brought in, and delivered to the officers, called Questores. Claudius' the consul was much inclined to take the senators to mercy: Fuluius on the other side would have them suffer, in example of other rebels and traitors. Wherefore Claudius remitted all thing to the judgement of the senate of Rome, and sent thither to know their pleasure therein. Whereupon Fuluius, fearing lest he should be stayed of his purpose, commanded the tribunes, with ii M. horsemen, to be ready to ride with him at the third blast of a trumpet. With this company of horsemen in the night he departed from the army, and by that it was day light, came to Theanus, where causing the senators of Capua, there being prisoners, to be brought before him, incontinent be caused them to be violently scourged with rods, and after to have their heads stricken of. From thence, as fast as he might he hied to Cales, and there likewise sat upon the judgement of the other senators of Capua. but whiles they were going to execution, one came from the senate of Rome, riding in great haste, with letters, willing him to stay the judgement and execution of the punishment of the Campane senators. Than Fuluius judging the letters to be written for that intent, never disclosed them, but put them in his bosom, saying to the officers that they should proceed quickly to the execution according to the law: So were they also whipped, and after had their heads stricken of. Than the consul drew forth his letters, and red them, saying they came very late, to let the thing that was already done. From Cales he returned to Capua and there put divers other in prison, beside many of the city that were sold. Than was there great debate in the senate at Rome whether the city of Capua should be burned and utterly destroyed, in example of other rebels or not. Much it moved them so to do, for that it was a great and a strong city, and a very near neighbour unto them: which if it should be an enemy again to Rome, as it late was, should greatly dysquiete the Romans. Nevertheless in conclusion, considering the fertility of the ground, which was the best of all Italy, they agreed to use it to their profit, having plowmen labourers & other to manure and till the grounds, and the houses to be inhabited with rude people, and men of handy crafts: so that it should be a city of no body politic, nor have senators, or other common counsel or rulars, but only a judge yearly to be sent from Rome, to minister justice among them. By this mean was the city preserved from utter destruction, and the profit thereof, with the fields adjoining, employed to the common profit of the Romans.   

¶ Marcellus winneth the city of Syracuse in Sicilia. P. Scipio, and Cneius Scipio are slain in spain, with a great numbered of Romans. Cap. xli.  
DVringe the business of Capua, and the wars about the same, fortune also favoured the Romans touching their affairs in Sicilia. For Marcellus, captain of the Romans army there, so wisely & circumspectly governed himself and his people, that he won the noble city of Syracuse. In which he had abundance of riches, as great as if he had taken the great city of Carthage, with which (it was thought) in all things it might well as than have been compared. In the end of the year, when the time of choosing of new consuls was come, Marcus Marcellus, for his well proved experience, was chosen consul, & appointed to match Hannibal concerning the wars of Italy. And Marcus Valerius Levinus was elect the other consul: to whom th'end of the wars of Sicilia were wholly committed: who by his industry, and by the treason of certain Numidians, won the town of Agrigentum, whereby he drove Hanno, Epicides, and all the army of Carthage out of Sicilia: and soon after brought the hole country into the subjection of the Romans.  
¶ While the wars of Sicilia & about Capua were brought to this good pass, Cn. Scipio and Publius his brother, were as busy in Spain, but not with like success. They had counseled together, the summer following, so to follow the wars, that the Carthaginenses should be clean driven out of Spain. And to be strong enough therefore, they hired xxx thousand men of war of Celtiberia. The power of Carthage was divided in iii armies, governed by three captains, Asdrubal, the son of Gysgon, and Mago, these two captains lay .v. days journey from the Roman legions: the third, which was Asdrubal, the son of Amilcar, the ancient captain of the Carthaginenses in that country, lay at Anniturgium, more neereunto the Romans: and had in purpose the summer following, to pass the mountains, to convey his army to Hannibal. This his purpose to let, the two Scipios thought first to assail him alone from his company, not doubting, but they were strong enough so to do. Their greatest fear was, lest when they had overcome him, that the other hasdrubal and Mago, hearing thereof, would flee into the mountains and straits with their power, and so prolong the wars in spain. Wherefore to make an end of all their trouble at ones, they concluded to part their armies in twain, P. Cornelius with two parts should go against the two captains that lay together. And Cn. Scipio with the third part of their old army, and with the Celtiberians should assail the other Asdrubal, the son of Amilcar. With these minds they set forth together toward their enemies. Cn. Scipio when he came to Aniturgium, rested with his company in the sight of his enemies, having a river between him and them: his brother went forth, as it was agreed between them. Asdrubal perceiving the numbered of the romans to be but small: and that all their strength was in strangers late hired, knowing the faction of the people, how untrue and unstable they were: by the mean of Spaniards, that could speak the language, for great sums of money he corrupted the princes & rulers of them: so that they were agreed to depart home with their hole power. They were not desired or hired to undertake the wars with Asdrubal against the Romans, but only to departed without fight. Whereunto they were soon entreated, partly for that they had as large wages as though they should have fought: And again for that they were glad to return home to their countries and friends, avoiding the danger of war. Therefore suddenly they with their banners and carriage departed. The Romans marveling what this sudden change meant, inquired of them the cause of their departure. They answered, they were sent for home to defend their own country which was oppressed also with war. Other answer could they none get: neither were the Romans able to keep them with force. Scipio knowing, that without them he was nothing able to encounter Asdrubal, and also saying no way how he might recover the company of his brother: his enemies being so near, and coming on him, was marvelously astonished: yet he thought best, in no wise to meet with him on even ground, he was so far overmatched. Wherefore a little and a little he with drew him back, seeking some place of strength, where he might secure himself and his small company. That perceiving hasdrubal passed the river with his host, and followed after, with as moche speed as he could.  
¶ Now was P. Scipio his brother as much troubled on his part, by reason of Massanissa, a young lusty prince of Numidia, who being than a friend to the Carthaginenses, was come with a good power of Numidians to the succour of Mago and hasdrubal the son of Gysgon, he was fires and of a great courage, the Romans could neither go abroad for victuals, wood, or such necessaries, but he with his Numidians was ever ready to oppress them: and divers times in the night he would assail them in their camp, as people that were besieged. There was also tidings brought to Scipio, that one Indibilis, with seven thousand, and five hundred Suessanes, was at hand, coming to the help of the Carthaginenses: whose army being joined to the other, he knew he should be more straightly enclosed. Wherefore, compelled by necessity to search the compass of his wit, he determined secretly to take the greater part of his army to meet with this Indibilis in the night, intending, where so ever he met with him, to give him battaylle, he left Titus Fonteius, with a certain with him, to keep the camp. And going on his way about midnight he met with Indibilis and suddenly assailed him. There was a fierce conflict for a season: And by the sudden setting on them, the Romans had put them to flight with great slaughter, had not the Numidian horsemen, who always awaited on the Romans where so ever they went) on both parts suddenly assailed them: yet Scipio so privily was in the night departed, that he had thought thereby to have beguiled the Numidians watchmen. Than the battle being renewed again, Mago and Asdrubal with their hosts following after, were at their backs: so that the Romans knew not to which were best to turn them. Scipio still comforted and exhorted his men, and ever where the battle was most strong, thither went he like a noble and valiant governor, till at the last himself was thirst into the right side with a spear, so that he fell dead from his horse. When the Carthaginenses saw the Roman captain fall, incontinent they ran abroad in all the parts of the field joyfully crying, Scipio the captain of the Romans is slain. The fame whereof gave heart to the Carthaginenses, and caused the Romans to flee. but in the flight there were more slain than in the battle. The Numidian horsemen were so fierce in the chase, and the footmen having light harness were almost as swift as the horses. So that if the night had not come on them, few or none had escaped. The Carthaginenses after this victory slept not nor stayed, but to follow their good occasion offered, incontinent took their horses, and went to the other hasdrubal, the son of Amilcar, not doubting of good speed there also. After that both their powers were met together, there was great joy made between the capiteynes both for their meeting, and also for the news of their late victory.  
¶ On the other side the romans were stricken with fearful pensiveness, not for any knowledge that they had of the loss of their company, for there was such speed made by theyrennemies, that word thereof could not so soon be brought them: but their fear was as it were through an inward and secret judgement in their hearts, of some evil chance that was happened unto them. Again Cn. Scipio seeing the host of his enemies increased, by the coming of Mago and Asdrubal, marveled how they should convey their army thither so soon without battle, unless his brother were slain. He marveled also, that his brother, neither did let their coming thither, neither yet did appear following them. For he knew, if he were on line, he would make haste to come and join his army unto his. In this great trouble of mind, he thought to withdraw him as much as he might. Wherefore in the night he was gone a good space of ground, but in the dawning of the day, the Numidians were ware of their departing, and followed with their horses, so that long before night they overtook them, assailing them now on the one side, now on the other, and sometime behind them: but ever Scipio caused them to keep good array, and to go ever forward in their fighting, to be out of the danger of the footmen of their enemies that followed them: but the horsemen so vexed them on all parts, that they could not go far. Wherefore Scipio gathered his small company up to a little hill, the best that he could there espy for his advantage. There he took this order. their stuff and carriage was brought into the middle of the host, and the horsemen set about the same: without them were the foot men, who saved the other from the invasion of the Numidian horsemen, till the rest of the Carthaginenses were come. But than Scipio seeing himself so unable to resist iii captains and their great hosts, began to devise, how he might by any means cast a trench about his camp, or make some hedge to defend them from the invasions of their enemies: but than was the hill so bare, and the ground so stony, that no bushes or thorns could there be gathered, nor turfs digged, or any trench made: and the hill itself was so flat, that they could by no manner of way let the coming up of their enemies. Than Scipio to make some show of a defence about the camp, devised to lay his packs and gross carriage in compass of the camp one upon an other, and thereupon he caused the packsaddels and other farthels to be tied: whereby he raised the walls of his camp of a good height.  
¶ When the hosts of the Carthaginenses were come, they ascended that small hill with little pain: but than seeing that strange kind of fortifying the camp, which they had never before seen, they were amazed, and stayed for a season. The captains perceiving their sudden stop and wondering, cried on all parts to them, saying, that it was great shame for them to be so long or they could pluck down and deface such a fond devise and mockery, wherewith children and women would not so long have been stayed. Go to it therefore with courage (said they) for your enemies lie lurking behind those packs. With these rebukes of the captains, they assayed to enter on all parts. And though a great while they were let and troubled thereabout, at the last in divers partis they entered, so few in numbered could no longer endure against so many. The camp was won, and many were slain, whereof Cn. Scipio the noble captain was one, a good number fled into the woods, that were next unto them, and so escaped, and came into the tents of Publius Scipio, which than were kept by T. Fonteius. Thus were both the brethren and capitains of the Romans in Spain, slain within the space of xxx days: whose death was greatly lamented, both at Rome and also in Spain. And it was thought at their death, that the hole army of the Romans in spain was utterly brought to confusion, and that country thereby brought out of the Romans hands.   

¶ L. Martius is chosen captain of the Roman army, he maketh an oration to his soldiers, and in one night and a day vanquisheth ii hosts of Carthaginenses, winneth their camps, and a great pray. Capit. xlii.  
IN all this peril and jeopardous estate, one man was found in the army, by whose wit courage and fortune the honour and wealth of the Romans was saved and restored. And that was Lucius Martius, the son of Septinius, a fresh young man and an active. This Martius had long been in the wars under C. Scipio, and of him had learned moche experience and policy in the governance of an army. And now, seeing all things almost desperate, he gathered together such soldiers, as by fleeing were escaped from the last battle, and also assembled a good numbered of men of war out of divers towns and fortresses, which were under the obedience of Rome. With all these he came to the tents of T. Fonteius, joining all the Romans power together, and in short space his name and honour was so exalted, that by the whole consent of the soldiers of the army, he was chosen to be their captain and guide. Whereupon he incontinent applied himself busyly to make sure their camp, and also to make good provision for victuals of all sorts. To whose pleasure and commandment all the men of the host gladly obeyed: Nevertheless, when they heard, that hasdrubal the son of Gysgon, was at hand with his army, minding to destroy utterly all the Romans that were left: and also when they saw their new captain, making ready his people, and advancing his standards: they than remembering their old noble capytaines, and the great power, wherewith they were wont to go to all battles, could not forbear to weep and lament their mishap, in such wise, that neither their petty captains, nor yet Martius himself, might appease them: yet did they sometime rebuke their feminine and unprofitable weepings, sometime stir them to defend themselves and their country, and also to revenge the death of their old noble captains of late slain. While they thus were spending the time unprofitably, their enemies were at hand, and ready to assail them, and to enter into their camps, but than the Romans, turning their tears to a furious rage, in haste took their armure and weapons, and not only defended the entries of their camp, but also issued out fiercely, and ran on their enemies, which kept no very good array, so little they mistrusted any such resistance. This sudden issuing out of them caused the Carthaginenses to be stricken with a fear, and also to marvel, how the Roman host was so shortly increased, which so late was almost wholly slain and put to utterance. They mused also of their sudden courage and hardiness, and what new captain they might have to trust on, the two Scipios being slain. In that fear and doubt they began somewhat to give back, and than the Romans followed upon them, so that they were constrained to flee, and in that flight many of them had been slain, or else the followers had been put to great hurt and displeasure, by their fast pursuit, had not Martius himself sound the retreat, and half against their wills stayed them from the chase, and brought them back to their tents, being still hot, fierce, and desirous, by slaughter to revenge them on their enenmies. The Carthaginenses fled fast for a season: but at the last, saying no man to follow them, thought that they for fear durst no longer pursue them. Wherefore they made no more such haste, but went softly to their camp, and when they were come thither, they also regarded not greatly the good watch and keeping thereof, but left all things negligently and unsurely, nothing mistrusting their enemies that were at hand, for that they deemed them to be but the remnant and leavings of two hosts lately beaten, now being gathered together again. This negligence of the Carthaginenses was known to Martius by espies. Wherefore he (at the first appearance) seemed rather rashly than boldly to enterprise the night following to invade them in their tents and field, thinking it more easy for him to win the camp of hasdrubal alone, being suddenly taken and unprovided, than he should be able to defend his own camp and field, if he tarried till the iii captains of the Carthaginenses, and their arinies, were joined together again, Nevertheless before he would suddenly and in the night time enterprise so high a feat, he thought first to make his company privy thereof, and also to make unto them an oration, which he began in this wise.  
¶ The great love that I have ever borne unto our good capitains (loving soldiers) as well when they were onlyve, as also now they are dead, and our present fortune at this time is sufficient to persuade any man, that this great authority and rule, which of your goodness, ye have given me, is both weighty and full of care and troubles. For although my mind be sore troubled and disquieted, that it can almost at no time find any comfort or consolation, but only when fear driveth away the sorrows thereof: yet in my dolour, I only am constrained to comfort and relieve you all of your sorrows. Neither when I am devising, by what means I may save and preserve the leavings of the two Romans hosts, for the wealth of the country, can I at any time be quit and rid of my sorrows. For even than the two Scipio's both by day and by night, do vex and trouble me: sometime in dreams they appear unto me, and many times they awake me out of my sleeps, commanding me, not to leave them, nor yet their noble soldiers your companions, nor the common wealth unrevenged. And for that intent, they will me to follow the rules and discipline, that they have taught me: And as (whiles they were living) there was no man more obedient to their commandment than I was: so likewise, now they are departed, I shall always be as glad to do that thing, which I do suppose they would have done, if they werehere with us living. And I would ye should not think it best (worthy warriors) to mourn and weep for them, as though they were clean dead, since they live perpetually through the noble fame of their honourable acts: but when so ever ye shall, going to battle, remember any of them, I would have you so vahantly fight, as though ye saw them setting forth before you with banners displayed, and exhorting you to win honour. Such an imagination caused you yesterday so manfully to vanquish and put to flight your enemies. Wherefore I am much desirous to prove, whether you, that were so hardy for your own pleasure, dare now undertake as much at the desire and exhortation of me your captain. For yesterday, when I called you back from the chase of your enemies, I did it not to pluck down your stomachs, or to quench your noble courage: but only to defer the same to your more and greater honour, and also better opportunity: to the intent that you being prepared therefore, may assail them unpurueyde for the same, that you armed, may take them unarmed and a sleep. Our enemies think nothing less, than to beinuaded of us in their camp, whom they account as people besieged within our own camp, let us now therefore enterprise that, which no man will think, that we dare enterprise. And that shall be found most easy, that seemed most hard to be compassed: I myself will be your guide in the dead of the night, and lead you so secretly, and with such silence, that we will be within their camp, ere they shallbe aware of our coming. I am ascertained, that they keep no watch nor order. Their camp shall we win at the first brunt.: And than let me see you make the slaughter among them, that you intended yesterday to have made, when against your wills I called you back from the pursuit of them: wherewith ye were than very angry. This enterprise I know to be very great and hardy: but in such necessity such counsels are best. For when occasion is offered, and opportunity serveth, it must be taken: or else it will flee away without recovery. One of their armies is here at hand, and two other are not far hence. Now if we assail this one host, there may we find opportunity and have some equal match. Ye have already yesterday assayed both your own strength and theirs: but in case we delay it, being contented with yesterdays honour, it is jeopardy, lest all the captains, with their powers come together: and than how shall we be able to sustain the power of three armies with their governors, whom Cn. Scipio, with his army was not able to withstand? as by divyding their hosts our two noble captains were slain: likewise our enemies being divided & severed, may by us be oppressed. Other way is there none for us to take now: but only to look for the opportunity of this next night. Wherefore in the name of the God's go ye now to your rests, and cherish your bodies, that when I call on you, you being strong and lusty, may enter into the camp of your enemies, with the same hearts and courage, that of late ye defended your own Campe.  
¶ This new counsel of the new capitain was well heard, and so much the more joyfully received, by how much the act seemed to be more bold and hardy. Wherefore they prepared all things in a readiness for the departure, and rested themselves the rest of the day, and a good part of the night. Than Martius caused them to be called up, and set them secretly on the way forward, about three of the clock after midnight. Than was there an other army of the Carthaginenses seven miles beyond the camp of hasdrubal, the son of Gysgon, and in the mids of that way there was a hollow valley, and therein a little wood. Into this wood had Martius sent an embushement of Roman horsemen, to receive such as fled from the first camp, and would escape to the other. And when he deemed the said embushement to be come thither, he with the rest of his company, went to the next camp, where finding no watch nor resistance, they entered the tents as easily as they might have done into their own. Than suddenly they blew up their trum pettes, and made great clamour and noise: some slew their enemies sleeping, some set the tents on fire, many kept the entry or gates of the camp, that none should issue out. Thus with sudden noise, fire, and slaughter, the other were so amazed, that they wist not what to do. They that fled to the gates were there received of armed men and slain, when they perceived the gates so hepte, many to save their lives leap tover the dyches or closures of the camp, thinking to flee to the next camp of the Carthaginenses, and they were also received of the roman embushement and slain, so that none escaped. And if any had escaped, they could not have brought word of the news to the other camp, before the Romans came themselves: such speed they made to go to the second camp, after they had so slain and oppressed them of the first field. Thus in the break of the day, they came to the second camp, where they found all things more unready, then in the first: some were gone forth for wood, some on for raging, some for victuals, many walked up and down before the gate of the camp unarmed, many were laid down to take their rest: the Romans, being yet fierce of their late victory, slew first such as made resistance at the entry of the camp, and after they entered and made great slaughter. With this great noise, many arose and armed them, and came to the defence of their field, and thereby the battle for a season was cruel and strong: but as soon as they perceived the fresh blood on the romans shyeldes, which was a sign of the death of their company, they were stricken with such fear, that they fled as many as might sundry ways, so that night and morning Martius vanquished two. of the hosts of the Carthaginenses, and flew xxxvii M. men, and i M. and viii C. were taken. He wan also their tents, wherein was a rich pray. Among other things there he found a helmet of silver, weighing. C. xxxviii. ounces, and thereupon was graven the Image of hasdrubal, the son of Amylcar: which helmet was sent to the senate of Rome, and kept long after in the Capitolie, for an honourable monument or remembrance of the victory of Martius. And after his time it was called Martius helmet, unto the time of the burning of the Capitolye. After these great harms and losses, both given and taken on both parts, they ceased warring for a while in Spain, neither party being hasty to put all in jeopardy, till they were sure of more socours.   

¶ How Hasdrubal being enclosed in the straits beside Mentissa, escaped the danger thereof by mocking his enemies: and of the choosing of young P. Corn. Scipio to be captain in Spain. Ca 43.  
AFter the subduing of Capua, Appius Claudius Nero the consul, with an army of xii M. footmen, and xi C. horsemen, was sent into spain: where receiving also the host that was before with Martius & Fonteius, he took the way toward Hasdrubal the son of Amilcar, that lay with his army at a place called the Black stone, between the town of Illiturgus and Mentissa, which was a place so enclosed, that there was no way to issue out, but at certain straights, which streites Claudius Nero at his first coming, caused to be well and strongly kept, that the other should by no way escape, but at his pleasure. hasdrubal perceiving himself to be enclosed on all parts, fearing his escape from thence, sent incontinente an harrold to the consul, with faithful promise, that in case he would suffer him and his company to depart out of that straights, without further battle or trouble, he would be contented forthwith to depart out of Spain, with all the army of Carthage, and leave the country holly to the romans. This his large offer Nero gladly received, and the next day following was appointed for a communication to be had between them, of the conditions of delivering of the castles and fortresses, which they had in possession, and what day should be appointed for the Carthaginenses garrysons to depart with their baggage, without guile or fraud, from the said castles and towns, and the other to be received in their places. When they were agreed on this communication, all the same night hasdrubal caused many of his host, with all his gross and heavy carriage, to be sent forth by the said straights, being then not so straightly kept and watched. Ever foreseeing, that there should not over many depart at ones that night, to the intent the smallenes of the number, by making small noise, might with their silence deceive his enemies, and also the better to escape the narrow and uncasy ways of the straight passages.  
The day following the consul and he had long communication, and books were written of things of small importance, till it drew toward night: and then they agreed to meet the next morning, to finish their devices. This night also hasdrubal bestowed, in sending forth many more of his host, & more of his carriage than he did the night before. The next meeting also was in like manner in vain, the time wasted and spent in devices of covenants: and ever in the night he sent of his footmen and stuff out of danger.  
¶ Thus in reasoning and debating, diverse days were employed, till all his footmen and carriage were escaped. And when a great part of his host was by this illusion escaped, then began hasdrubal more to stay, and be stiff in the agreeing of covenants, in so much that he began to dissent from divers articles, whereunto he had before assented. For as his fear was lessed, his faith also decressed. The next morning there appeared a great and dark mist upon the ground, as well on the hills as on the valleys, which served well hasdrubal for his purpose. For he, thinking then his good hour to be come, sent to Nero the consul, advertysing him, that the same day was, and ever had been kept buy holy and sacred among the Carthaginenses: so that in the same it was not lawful for him, to travail about any business. Wherefore he desired the communication to be deferred till the day following. The consul yet thinking no fraud or deceit to be in the message, agreed thereunto. And then hasdrubal with speed issued out of the straight with the rest of his host, horsemen & elephants, with as small noise as he could make, and was passed all danger, before the day waxed clear. But when the son began to appear, them Nero perceiving the camp of the Carthaginenses to be void, and knowing many fest of their departure, with their untruth and his mock and illusion, he made as much speed as he could to follow his enemies, with a fervent desire to fight, if he might overtake them. But they were in safeguard, ere he might attain unto them, without any thing doing, unless it were small skirmisshes between the tail of the host of the Carthaginenses and the light fore-riders of the Roman army.  
¶ The end of the year drew near, and the time of choosing of officers began to approach: at which election Marcus Marcellus, and Marcus Valerius Levinus were choose consuls. Then the senate of Rome, with no less diligence delibered of the affairs of Spain, than they did of the estate of Italy, for the safeguard whereof they determined to augment the army, that was there with Nero the consul, and to send also with the same a new captain, whom they called a proconsul. But all their doubt was, whom they should assign to that office, to succeed in the place of two so noble captains, as were of late there slain, in the space of xxx days. The day was appointed for the common election of this captain, by voice of the senators and also of the communes. Some looked, when many valiant men would have offered themselves thereto for the wealth of their country: But none was found among them, that would enterprise to take on hand that great & perilous charge. The citizens by great assembles met at the day and place appointed for the nomination. At which day the noble men looked one upon an other, as people amazed and destitute of counsel in such perplexity, lamenting the sore decay of the state of the city.  
¶ When none could be found among them, worthy for that room or office: then suddenly young P. Cornelius Scipio, the son of him that was before slain in Spain, being then but xxiiii. years old, stood up in an high place, where all men might well see and behold him, and desired, that the same office might be given unto him. when he had declared his mind, anon the hole multitude of all estates gave to him their consent, crying: lucky be his empire in Spain.  
¶ Soon after his hasty election a sudden silence was among the multitude, and then all men began secretly with themselves to consider their haste in their nomination, marveling, and also forthinking, that they had more favoured the person through affection, than they did consider his youth by their reason, many misliked the fortune that had happened to his stock and family in the same countrei before, and some were sorry to send one of the same kin and name, to govern the country, where his father and uncle were slain and lay buried.  
¶ When young Scipio perceived their silence, and repentance of their hasty election, he desired them a little to give him audience. And there he made them such an oration, in the excuse of his age, and concerning the rule and affairs to him committed, with such an heart and courage, that he not only inflamed their hearts with more ardent desire and love toward him, but also he fulfilled them with a certain hope of prosperous success in his empire. For the young man, beside many his marvelous virtues and good qualities, where with he was naturally endued, he had also from his infancy a wonderful counning or gift in the noble advancing and setting forth of the same. Sometime among the common people he would show certain dreams or visions, that he had in the night: sometime he would declare unto them things that he was commanded inwardly by the gods to execute. These and such like his strange words, with the manner and fashion of living after he was first put in authority, showed such a magnificence in him, that the common people both had an opinion, and also published the same, that Scipio was descended of the stock or kindred of the gods. Inventing a like fable of his conception to be by the seed of a serpent or snake, as heretofore hath been feigned of great Alexander: affirming, that the similitude of the same hath been divers times seen in his mother's chamber: but so soon as any man entered her said chaumbre, it did suddenly glide and vanish away.  
¶ This feigned invention of his conception, and the superstitious minds of the people toward him, he would neither affirm to be true, neither say they were false and untrue: but covertly left them to dwell still in their own opinions: whereby all men had such an admiration of him, that they suffered him to enjoy that great room, that else was full unmeet for that his young age. The army, that should be under him in Spain, was increased ten thousand footmen, and one. M. horsemen: and M. julius Sullanus was appointed to help him in all his busy affairs of charge.  
¶ With this new army and a navy of xxx ships, he departed out of Italy, making great speed, till he arrived in Spain: where he gathered together all the power that remained there before, and so soberly handled himself to all men, that in his words they judged to be both a royal majesty, and a steadfast faithfulness. He praised much the soldiers, which he found there, first for that not withstanding their two. great losses of men & captains, yet they kept still that country, defending manfully their friends, and many their cities of the same: and also that they suffered not their enemies to enjoy the prosperous fortune, which by the loss of the romans was once given them: Thirdly, for that they had driven their enemies to forsake their abode on this lied the water of Iberus. But above all other, he had Lucius Martius in great honour and veneration. And anon after his coming, he bestowed his new men of war, to places where they should remain for the winter season, and he himself, after all things were ordinately disposed, went to Tarracon.  
¶ The fame of Scipio was no less among his enemies, than it was among his friends. They also had a certain fear of him, conjecturing, as it were by secret divination, the likely success of things that were to ensue. They feared him before they had cause, and they feared him the more, by how much the cause or reason of their fear was hid and unknown. And in this perplexity of mind, they departed their armies, and went to divers parts for the winter season. hasdrubal the son of Gysgon, went to the sea, toward the pillars of Hercules: Mago kept the middle of the country, and hasdrubal the son of Amilcar, lay nigh the river of Iberus, not far from Sagunt.   

¶ The oration of Scipio to his soldiers in Spain, after his coming thither. Cap. xliiii.  
IN. the spring of the year P. Scipio commanded all his ships, furnished with men victuals and muniments of war, to meet him at the mouth of the river of Iberus: where he with the rest of his host, coming by land from Tarracon, met them. And there thinking it necessary to him, to declare his mind to the old soldiers that were left in Spain, after the last great loss and slaughter of the Romans, he called them together, and made his oration as hereafter followeth.  
¶ There was never new capitain before me, that had cause to give thanks unto his soldiers, before he had tried their hardiness and diligence in battle: but fortune hath bound me unto you (loving soldiers) before I knew this country, or saw the place of our Campe. first for the love and obedience that ye have borne to my father and mine uncle both quick and dead: secondarily for that, when the hole country was as lost, by reason of the great destruction of our people: yet you by your noble virtue and might, have obtained the possession of the same again, both to the Romans, and also to me their deputy here, and successor to my said father and uncle. But now, since through the favour of the God's we intend to work, not that we may dwell in Spain still ourselves, but that the Carthaginenses shall have no dwelling here: Nother only to restrain them, that they shall not come on this side the banks of the water of Iberus: but that we intent to pass the same flood with our army, to give them battle. I fear, lest it shall be thought by you, that this my counsel is more hardy (and spoken after mine age) than wise, considering the late loss that we have had here, whereby the time should not serve us to undertake such great enterprises. There is no man hath more cause than I, to remember our evil fortune in battle in Spain, who have had both my father and mine uncle slain here, within the space of thirty days, as ye would say, to make here a heap of corpse of our family one upon an other. Nevertheless, as the loss and lack of friends is displeasant to the mind of men, even so doth fortune and noble virtuous courage forbid a man, in such case to despair, specially since through fatal fortune our chance hath heretofore been, that after we have been beaten and sustained great losses in the beginning: yet at the last we have ever overcome our enemies, that before suppressed us. I will not rehearse the old histories of our wars with Porsena, with the Frenchmen, and with the Samnites: I will only remember the wars with these our enemies the Carthaginenses, how many navies of ships, how many captains, and how many armies lost we in the first battles, that we had with them, before the time of this Hannibal? And now in his time at Trebia, at Trasymenus, and at Cannas, what other things did appear, other than hole armies with their captains and Roman Consuls slain? Furthermore, how great a part of Italy, of Sardinia, and Sicilia have forsaken the Romans, to follow the amity of Hannibal? and how nigh the city of Rome pitched he his camp? ye he himself was seen almost to ride hard to the gates of Rome. In all the time of this great ruin and hard fortune, the hearts, the virtue and courage of of the Romans remained still steadfast hole and unmovable: whereby they have been ever sustained and set up again. After the cruel battle of Cannas, hasdrubal, with a great army was going over the mountains into italy, to help his brother Hannibal, and to join their powers together: which if he had done, according to his intent, there had by this day been almost no memory or name of the romans left. But than ye hardy soldiers, by the governance of my father, withstood them, and by your good fortune so well sped there, that thereby the evil chances, which before happened us, were well relieved, and now, through the goodness of the gods are daily more joyful and prosperous. In Sicilia the great cities of Syracuse and Agrigentum, be won again, and the hole I'll brought unto the obedience of the Romans, and our enemies clean expulsed. In Italy Capua is taken, & the Arpines brought again under the subjection of Rome. And Hannibal in great fear fleeing from Rome, is now bryven into an angle of the country of the Brutians, where the daily prayer that he maketh to the gods above all things is, that he may safe and sound escape without danger out of the country of his enemies. Wherefore friends, there is nothing more unmeet or more contrary to reason, then that you, who have in all adversity and low ebb, when the gods were themselves almost on Annibals' party, & yet by the guiding of my father and friends, have sustained and borne up the estate of the Romans: that ye now, when all things are merry and prosperous, should shrink or suffer your hearts to fail you. Now the immortal gods, the governors of the Roman Empire, who willed the people of Rome, by one assent to elect me unto this great office and dignity, the same gods by sundry presages signs and dreams in the night have showed me, that all things hereafter shall have prosperous success. ye and that I most at this time do regard, my heart giveth me, that ere it be long, all Spain shallbe ours, so that as many as bear the name of a Carthaginense, shall be glad for fear to flee hens, both by land and by sea. And reason also giveth, that the same which in my heart is conceived, must needs be true. For divers of their friends, which have by them been evil entreated, have of late sent ambassadors to us for socours. Again, there be of them three captains, which can not agree among themselves. For which cause they have divided their army in three parts, and are departed far asunder. Wherefore the same, fortune that scourged and destroyed us, doth now come on them. For their fellows and friends, in whom they trust be gone from them, even as the people called Celtiberi, departed and forsook you, when y●hadde most need of them. They also have divided and severed their hosts, which was the cause of the destruction, both of my father & of mine uncle. This discord will not suffer them to join together again. And be ye sure, no one army of them by itself is able to withstand you. Wherefore I most heartily pray you good soldiers, love and favour now the name of the Scipions, which am I the son of your old captain Scipio, an imp grown out (as ye would say) of a stock that is cut down by the ground. And ye old knights, so work, that ye may bring me a young captain, with my new army over Iberus into the country, which ye have passed, after many great acts and prows showed: and I doubt not shortly to bring to pass, that as ye now know in me to be a similitude or resemblance of my father and uncle, by my face, countenance, and features of my body, even so shall ye see in me also an example of their wit faith and virtue: in such wise, that every one of you shall say: Scipio our old captain is alive again.   

¶ The city of new Carthage in Hispayne is won by the Romans, with a great pray of gold silver and all other necessaries for the war, with the pledges of the noble men and cities of Spain Capi. xlv.  
When he had by these exhortations kindled the hearts of his men, he left behind him to keep that country, M. silanus, with three thousand footmen, and three hundred horsemen: with the rest of his army, which was xxv thousand footmen, and ii thousand and .v. C. horsemen, he passed the river of Iberus. When he was passed over, many counseled him, seeing the army of the Carthaginenses was devydedinto three parts, that he should assail that host of them, which was next unto him, saying, It was peril, if they were joined together, lest he should not be able to resist them: but he had imagined in his mind, that he would first assault Carthago Nova, which was then not only rich of the richesse of the inhabitants of the same, but also rich by means of the Carthaginenses, who had laid there their treasure, armour, with moche other apparel for the war. There remained also in that City, all the pledges of noble men and cities of Spain. Beside this, the city was situate upon the sea, from whence it was easy to pass over into Africa.  
The haven also thereof was able to receive easily the greatest navy of any prince.  
¶ Of this his purpose no man was privy, but only T. Lelius, governor of the ships and army by the sea, to whom he commanded, so to temper his course with his ships, that his army by land, and the other by sea, might both suddenly appear at Carthage in one time. Which his charge was duly put in execution. For the seventh day after their departing from Iberus, they met at new Carthage: where incontinent the Camp was made, and tents pitched on the north side of the city.  
¶ Now is the site or situation of Carthage on this manner: In the middle of Spain, there is a great bosom or gulf, in to the which the sea hath his full course, within the land the length of five hundred passes, and the breadth of the sea in the same place, is much of the same quantity. In the inner part or furthest end of this gulf, is a hill, on which the city is builded: and it is on two parts, that is to say, on the east side, and on the south side, enclosed with the sea, which from the said gulf or bosom, rounneth in to the land by the one side of the city. Upon the west side, it is defended with a great and broad pool, that rounneth up also a good part of the north side of the town: The deepness of the pool is at no certainty: For as the sea doth arise on height and ebb low, so is the water thereof deep or shallow. ¶ Thus is the City on all parts environed with water, as it were an island, whiles it be on a part of the northside: and the main land there, passeth not ii hundred and thirty paces in breadth. Wherefore since the ground there was no brother, Scipio intended not to make trenches on that part, for that he thought himself strong enough to keep that little piece of ground from his enemies: and also to th'intent he might at all times have recourse to view the walls and strength of the town.  
¶ When Scipio had ordered all things ordinately upon the land for the assault, he than went to the haven, where he in like manner ordered his ships and his men, that it might appear to the citizens, that they should be assaulted, as well by water, as by land: he also commanded watch to be kept upon the water in the night season in every ship. And after all things were prudently appointed, he returned to his camp, willing before he did any thing, touching the assault, to instruct and admonish his people of his mind, concerning the same, and to comfort them in that enterprise, he called them together and made his oration to them in this wise.  
¶ Who so ever believeth (good soldiers) that ye are now brought hither only to assault and win this one town, he doth more consider your labour and pain therein, than the profit that shall ensue thereof. True it is, that ye shall assault and scale the walls but of one only town: but in the obtaining of this one, ye also shall win the whole country of Spain. For in this town are the pledges of all the noble men, kings and people of Spain, who being once taken, full shortly shall cause all that ever the Carthaginenses do now possede, to be yielded unto us, and to be under our dominon. Here also is all the money and treasure of our enemies: which being taken from them, they shall be able no longer to maintain the wars, seeing they have many hired strangers in their army. And the same treasure shall marvelously profit us, thereby to win the hearts and love of these barbarous people. Beside this, here remaineth their ordinance, their armour, and all habiliments necessary for the war: which being once won, shall serve well our purpose, and thereof make our enemies bare, to their utter destruction. Furthermore, we shall be lords of a fair and a rich city, whereunto lieth a goodly haven, whereby we shall be served both by sea & by land, of all things that we shall at any time lack. The having of these things shall not only be pleasant & profitable to us, but also the lack of the same, shall be a much greater hindrance and loss to our enemies. For this city hath been and is their greatest strength. Here be their store houses for corn, here is their treasaurye, here is their armoury, and their houses stuffed with all things necessary for their ships of war: generally this city is the only receptacle of all that they have. Hither lieth the right course by sea from Africa to spain. And now, since I perceive ye be sufficiently instructed, and have all things in good order, meet for the purpose, let us with good hearts, and all our strength, make haste to the assaulting of this new Carthage. ¶ Therewithal, every man with loud voice assented thereto. And he, not thinking to be slack in his business, went forth toward Carthage, causing it to be assaulted both by water and by land. ¶ On the other side, Mago captain of the Cartha ginenses, perceiving that the assault was ordained to be given both by sea and land, he disposed his men within the town on this manner: Two. M. of the townsmen he caused to be armed & put in array on that part of the town, that the Roman tents or camp was, five. C. men he appointed to keep the castle: other .v. C. he assigned to remain upon a hill, that was within the city toward the east: The rest of the people he commanded to be ready to help and secure their companies, in what place of the town so ever they saw most need to resist. And when so ever they heard any cry made in any part, through the violent force of the assauting: then suddenly the gate was open, whereat he caused the ii M. soldiers of the town to issue upon the Romans, at whose first coming, Scipio caused his men to recoil back, to th'intent he might draw them further from the town, and more near the rest of the Roman army. At the first the battle was styf●e, and well maintained on both parts: but when the Carthaginenses per ceived so great a numbered coming from the tents of the Romans, to the succour of their fellows, they fled with great fear toward their city, and were chased and slain hard at their gates: which caused no less trembling to be in the city, than was before in the battle. In so much that divers places of the walls were left bare and naked, without men to defend the same: every man leapt from his appointed place, so great and sudden was their fear. This perceived well Scipio, standing on an hill without the town. Wherefore he commanded his soldiers, to come out of their tents speedily, to the assault of the town, and to bring with them scaling ladders. His commandment was fulfilled. The fight was strong on both parts. And to encourage the more his people, Scipio himself came thither, under the covert of shields and pavesses, to withstand the shot that came from the walls, of arrows darts and other ingynnes which was great. There he sometime exhorted and comforted his men: sometime he counseled them, what was best for them to do, for the attaining of their purpose. This his presence was awytnesse, both ofmens' valiant courage, and also of their cowardice, whereby every man enforced himself to clymmeup, neither regarding the height of the walls, nor fearing the men of arms, that fiercely defended the walls. On the other side of the town like assault was given from the ships, by that part that lay toward the water: but all to small purpose. For Mago had so furnished the walls with armed men, ever bringing them plenty of darts and other ordinances, that the Romans lost more than they wan. And above all things, the saving of the town was the height of the walls, whereby few of their ladders were able to reach to the top of the same, and those ladders that were longest, were thereto most weak: so that when one was ascended up on any of them, other would also climb after him thereon, and so with heavy burden being loaded, many of them brake, to the great hurt of the climbers. whereupon Scipio, considering his vain labours, caused his weary company to withdraw them, and to rest them: whereby the Carthaginenses were not only eased and relieved of their present fear & danger, but also thereby took a hardy courage and opinion, that the city was out of all danger of taking by any assault, & that they were strong enough to defend it, till their other captains of the Carthaginenses armies might have time enough to come to their rescous, and to raise their siege. It drewthen toward the middle of the day, when certain fysshermen of Tarracon, that had been fishing in their boats on the said great and large pool, that lay on the northwest part of the town, certified Scipio, that the water thereof was than at a very low ebb, & also the north-wind, being very quick, and driving the waves with the tide, caused a lower vale, than had lightly been seen: so that men might well wade over to the walls of the city, the water being in most places not past the middle of a man, and in some parts not past the knees. This strange fortune of that unseen low ebb of the water, Scipio turned to a miracle, saying: It was the will and pleasure of the God's, to withdraw at that time the water from that great pole, to make for the Romans a passage, & to open them a way, by which never man before had passed. With these strong persuasions, he caused the rest of his army, which had rested them in their tents, during the time of the first assault, to take ladders and engines, and to give a new assault in the same place, where they were before beaten back. There began a fierce & a cruel bickering. Nevertheless the height of the walls was so beneficial to the citizens, that were they never so valiant and hardy, yet up could they not get: but were overthrown with small pain to the towns men.  
¶ While they were busy and attentive to defend the City, as well there as on the sea cost, Scipio, with a good numbered of strong men, secretly withdrew him to the said pond: where he bade his company follow the god Neptunus, that should be their guide on their way through that shallow water. Whereupon they with small labour went over, and set up ladders to the walls, which they found easy to be scaled, and not kept with any men of war. For that they having a sure hope in the natural strength on that part, by reason of the water, had made no muniments or defence: nor yet left any watch there: every man was gone to the defence of the other parts, in the which th'assault seemed most fierce & dangerous: so that without any resistance they entered the town, & incontinent made haste to come to the gate, where the battle was most busy & strong. To which when they were come, they found all the townsmen so earnest in their defence, or in comforting their fellows, that they neither herd nor saw the Romans till they perceived them at their backs, throwing of darts, & slaying them on all parts, neither till that time knew they the town to be won. Than anon were the gates broken down, & a great numbered of armed men entered at the gate, many had by that time gotten in over the walls: some went incontinent about the town, slaying all that they met: an other company went in array to the market place, through the middle of the City. Than perceived they their enemies fleeing, some to the hill within the town, that was kept with .v. C. men of war. Mago with a great numbered with him fled to the castle. Then Scipio sent part of his host to the said hill, which anon was won, and the people slain or else taken. The rest went to assault the castle, which Mago a season valiantly defended: but seeing all the town full of his enemies, and that he was not like to have any socours: he yielded up himself with the castle to the Romans. Then ceased they to make any further slaughter in the city. Every man went to the spoil of the town: the pray whereof was great, as well of gold and silver as of ordinance, artillery, corn, ships, iron, latin and many other things meet for the apparel of ships: the certainty whereof I will not rehearse, for that writers vary much therein. There was also ten M. prisoners taken, whereof as many as were citizens, Scipio let go at liberty, and suffered to dwell still in the town, and to enjoy as much of their goods as was not before spoiled. Among other prisoners there were two. M. of crafts men, which he caused to be bond men to work for the common profit of the city of Rome, putting them in comfort, that they should within short space be made all free, if they would labour and work earnestly about such necessaries, as they should have need of in the war. A great number of the rest, that were servants and lusty young men, he sent to be rowers in his ships and galeys in the places of such as lacked. And he also increased his navy of eight ships well furnished. Beside all these prisoners he had also the pledges of noble men and cities, to a great number: whom he caused to be well kept and gently entreated. The rest of that day Scipio gave licence to his weary men to rest themselves. For there were few, but they had all the day before been sore travailed with fighting in one place or other. The custody of the town he gave to Cn. Lelius and his company of see men, and himself went to his tents.   

¶ Of the gentleness of Scipio, in restoring a fair young virgin undefiled to Luceius, unto whom she was fyaunced. Cap. xlvi.  
ON the morrow he assembled all his host together, and first he gave humble thanks & praise to the God's, that had given into his hands in one day so great, so noble, and so rich a city, the like whereof was not to be found in Spain. Into which his enemies had gathered together the treasure both of Africa and also of Spain, in such abundance, that there was but little or nothing left for them: the romans having great plenty of all things. next he much praised the noble courage and valiantness of his men of war, whom neither the sudden excursation of their enemies out of the town, neither the high walls or waters of the same, could make afraid or let them of their enterprise: neither yet their castles and strong towers, could resist their powers. Above other he praised much twain, that first scaled the walls, and entered the town, to each of them he gave a crown of good value: his other soldiers he rewarded, every man after his virtue and merits: but specially Cn. Lelius, the governor of the navy, he praised and much loved, to whom he gave, for a reward, a crown of gold, and xxx oxen.  
¶ Than caused he the pledges to be brought before him, willing them to be of good comfort, and that they should consider, that they were now in the power of the romans, whose natural property and desire is, to bind men through their benefits shewing, to love them, rather than by compulsion to keep men in fear of them. And had leaver to join strange nations in amity with them by faithful fellowship, then sorrowfully to keep them in miserable servitude. Than he took the names of the cities, that had their pledges there, and to the ambassadors that by chance were with him present of any of the said cities, he, incontinent delivered the pledges unto them: to the other cities he sent messengers, willing them to send unto him for them, and they should have their pledges freely delivered. There were also taken many noble matrons and honest maidens, whom he committed to sober and honest men to be kept, without any force or dishonour to be done unto them: among other captives there was one virgin brought unto him, of so excellent beauty, that where so ever she went, all men delighted to behold her. Scipio inquired of her, of what country she was, and of what kindred she was descended: & he perceyned by her, that she was betrothed or made sure to a young prince of the Celtiberians, whose name was Luceius. Whereupon he incontinent sent for the said young man, and also for her parents. At whose coming, knowing that the young man was sore enamoured of her, he thus said unto him: I being a young man, have sent for you, that are also a young man, to come to me, the cause is, for that when this young maiden, being fianced or insured to you, was brought to me, by my soldiers, I herd say, that you entirely loved her. And her beauty witnesseth, that you have good cause so to do. If I might lawfully enjoy her pleasant love, and were not otherwise occupied in my mind about the affairs of the common wealth: I could perchance bear her my love: and desire to enjoy the same: but now I will bear favour to your love, that of right aught to have her. She hath been here with me as well and honourably kept, & her virginity preserved, as though she had dwelled still with her own parents, to th'intent I might make of her a present to you most acceptable, & for the conservation of mine honour. And for this my gift, I require of you, but one only reward, that is, that you from henceforth become a loving friend to the Romans. And if ye esteem me to be a good or an honourable man, as my father and uncle before me were reputed for to be: think, that there are in the noble city of Rome many like unto us. And trust me never, if any people can this day be found on the earth; that you will be gladder to have the love and friend ship of, or that ye would be more sorry to have the displeasure of. The young man, after great thanks given him, prayed the gods to reward him for his goodness, where his power sufficed not: Then were the parents of the maiden called forth, who had brought with them a great sum of gold for the redemption of their child. But when they perceived, that he had given her freely to her husband, they desired him to take a part thereof, as of their gift, for the declaration of their good hearts towards him: affirming, that his receiving thereof should be as joyful unto them, as the restitution of their daughter undefiled.  
¶ Then Scipio, being overcome with their long and vehement intercession, caused the said sum to be laid on the ground before his feet, and calling Luceius again to him, he said: Beside the dower that ye shall receive of your father in law, for the marriage of his daughter, ye shall also take this gift of dower at my hand. With which his great gift, and also much honour to him done beside, he returned home to his house and country, declaring to every man the honour and magnificence of Scipio, saying, that there was a young man come most like unto a god, who both with his power in war, and also with his gentleness and liberality in peace, had overcome all the country. This young gentleman leaving his house and family in good order, shortly after returned to Scipio, bringing with him a. M. CCCC. good horsemen, to the aid and succour of the Romans.  
¶ Then Scipio sent C. Lelius to Rome, to bear tidings of his victory, and with him he sent Mago, and xu other senators of new Carthage, which were, at the taking of the same city, taken also prisoners, & after he had repaired the broken walls of the city, & set therein a sufficient numbered of soldiers, for the defence of the same: he removed to Tarracon: whither he had appointed the legates of all his old friends, and also of his new gotten acquaintance, to resort for a further communication of their alliance, and for the further proceeding in their affairs.   

¶ Hannibal sleith Cn. Fuluius, with xiii. M. Romans, beside Herdonea: Marcellus the consul chasith Hannibal through Apulia, making many shirmishes with him. ca xlvii.  
IN this estate were the wars in Spain, during which time the consul Marcellus took Salapia by treason, and ii other towns of the Samnites by force: where he slew iii M. men of war, which Hannibal had left for the keeping of the same towns. And Cn. Fuluius the proconsul, trusting to win Herdonea from Hannibal, which was not very strong of itself, neither had any garnison left there, for the sufficient defence thereof: he removed thither with his army, having the more hope and comfort to attain the same, for that he knew well, that Annibal, after the loss of Salapia, was departed into the country of the Brutians. But such as were the sure friends of Hannibal in the town of Herdonea, sent him privyly word by messengers. And he desirous to keep still his old friends, hasted so with his horsemen and lightest footmen, making so great journeys, that he was already come near Herdonea, before the fame of his coming were well known. And to put the romans in more fear, he appeared in good array of battle suddenly with banners displayed. Which Fuluius perceiving, with like hardiness made speed to put his folk in array, and joined battle with him. Than Hannibal commanded his horsemen, that after a sign or token to them made, whiles the Romans were busy in battle against his footmen, and every man's eye were occupied busyly: that they should secretly cooste the field, and part of them to set upon the backs of his enemies, one other part of them to invade their camp and tents with great noise and slaughter, saying, that he trusted to vanquish this Fuluius as he had ii years paste overcome an other Fuluius of his name in the same country. And in his hope he was nothing deceived. for so soon as the horsemen assailed the romans on their backs with great fear and slaughter, anon from the camp was heard a great cry: whereby the romans, that before kept array and fought boldly, were so dismaid, that some fled, and many more were slain. Among which the said Fuluius and xii tribunes, with xiii M. romans were slain, and their camp and stuff taken.  
¶ Than Hannibal, trusting nothing to the strength of that town, removed the inhabitants thereof to Metapontus, and to the Thurines. He slew the captains thereof, which had secret communication with the Consul, and after he set the town on fire.  
¶ Marcellus the consul, baing nothing afraid with the tidings of this loss, sent letters to the senate of Rome, bidding them to be no white discomforted therewith: for he doubted not, but he would cause Hannibal to have but very short joy of his victory. Whereupon he immediately removed toward Annibal, pitching his camp in the plain fields even in the sight of his enemies. And soon after valiantly came forth in order of battle, ready to fight. On the other side Hannibal was no less quick than he. The battle between them, both of the horsemen and of the footmen, was marvelous fires & cruel, neither ceased it, till the night departed them, with indifferent loss of both parties. In the night Hannibal secretly removed and went into Apulia. Marcellus in the morning, perceiving the departure of his enemies, followed incontinent, and overtook them near unto Venusia. Thus passed they all Apulia without any notable battle, the one following the other: And ever Hannibal would remove in the night, seeking a place to deceive his enemies. But the consul always followed in the day time, sending before him espies, to be sure from the crafty train of Hannibal.  
¶ The summer was almost ended, and the time of choosing consuls drew near, at the which choosing Marcellus should have been himself: but he sent his letters to Rome, affirming, that it should be right hurtful to the common wealth, if he did departed one foot from Hannibal. For his absence, yea his only ceasing to assail him, should give him much courage. Whereupon he was commanded to abide still with his army. The other consul Livius was sent for. Than were chosen consuls Q. Fabius Maximus, and Q. Fuluius Flaccus. Beside this it was determined, that M. Claudius Marcellus should keep also his army and the wars against Hannibal one year longar.  
¶ As touching the wars in Spain, it was ordained, that Publius Scipio and Sullanus should be there governors, not only for a year, but unto the time they were called from the same by the senate.  
¶ About this time came the ambassadors of king Syphax from Africa to Rome, showing the prosperous battles that he had fought with the Carthaginenses, desiring to have the amity of the Romans agreed to him by the whole senate, which before was moved between him and the two brethren Cneius, and P. Scipio in Spain. To whose ambassadors the senators not only gave gentle thanks and loving answers, but also sent by them to the king, rich presents.  
¶ Not long after tidings were brought to Rome out of Africa, that Massanissa, the son of king Gala, was come to Carthage with .v. M. Numidians, and that a great numbered of other Africans were hired to go over into Spain to Asdrubal, to the intent that he, strongly accompanied, might departed shortly from thence into Italy to his brother Annibal, in whom they judged the hope of their victory to rest.  
¶ About the same time came Lelius out of Spain to Rome bringing with him a great numbered of prisoners, rehearsing in the senate house the happy winning of new Carthage in one day, with the getting of many new friends in Spain. These news made them not so merry, as the coming of Asdrubal into Italy made them afraid, considering, that before he was come, all their power was scant able to resist the only power of Hannibal. Nevertheless, with as good cheer as could be, they discharged Lelius, sending him again in to Spain with the ships that came with him.   

¶ Marcellus giveth battle to Hannibal, in which his men be put to flight, whereupon he maketh them a sharp oration, he reneweth the battle on the morrow, putteth Hannibal and his host to flight, with loss of many of his men. cap. xlviii.  
THe new Consul, leaving all things in good order at Rome, departed towards the wars. Q. Fuluius Flaccus passed Capua, to whom Q. Fabius made instant request, before he departed, that he would keep straight and quick wars with Hannibal whiles that he did besiege the city of Tarent: which city, if he might once take from him, he should have no place sure to go to, neither know to what cost he might safely turn him: so that he should afterward have small cause to abide in Italy. The same request he also made to Marcellus by his letters: who thinking no man in Italy so able to match Hannibal, as he was himself, was so kindled & stirred with Fabius letters, that so soon as the winter was passed, and any food was found in the fields, able to sustain his army and cattle, he went to Canusium, where Annibal then lay, and had moved the rulers of the town to yield unto him, leaving the Roman amity. But so soon as he perceived, that Marcellus was come, he removed from thence, leaving that plain country, and sought the hilly and woddy country, which might be more apt for trains of deceit for his enemies.  
¶ Marcellus ever followed him hard, joining almost camp to camp. divers skirmishes were made between the horse men of both parts. But Hannibal not minding to jeopardy all at ones, fled before him in the night. At the last the other overtook him in the plain field: And as Hannibal caused his camp to be trenched & fortified, Marcellus with his men let the works thereof: so that whether he would or no, he was enforced to do battle, which thing he had most eschewed. Wherefore they ordered their armies on both parties, and fought till the night departed them. On the morrow Marcellus early put his men in good array, and Hannibal did the same, exhorting his men to remember their noble conquests at Trasymenus and at Cannas, and not to suffer their greedy and unreasonable enemy so to vex them, that they might not have time to encamp themselves, ye scarcely to look about, or to take breath. The son when it riseth, and the Roman army, do both at one time appear in the fields. But in case (saith he) ye so handle him, that he may once depart with loss of his men out of the field, he will hereafter be more easy to entreat. With these exhortations, and also being evil contented with the tedious continual pursuing of their enemies: they fiercely went to battle, where they fought cruelly by the space of ii long hours. At the last the right wing of the romans gave back, whose place to fulfil, Marcellus appointed an other legion of men of arms of his company. But as the first recoiled with fear, so the other came faintly into their places. At the last the roman host being more fearful than shamefast, began to flee. There was slain that day of the Romans ii thousand and seven hundred, whereof four were captains hundreders, and two tribunes.  
¶ Marcellus after that he was come into his camp, made to his soldiers so sore and cruel an oration, that the words of the angry captain seemed to them more displeasant and painful, than the travail that they took in the battle the day before.  
¶ I am much bound (saith he) to the immortal gods, when ye so fearfully toumbled together into your tents, that it chanced not your enemy, after his victory, to assail your camp also. For no fail, look with what fear ye left the battle, with like fear also had ye forsaken your camp. What sudden fear hath now invaded you? What thing hath caused you so soon to forget, both the estate of yourself, and also of your enemies? Do ye not remember, that these be the same enemies, whom ye overcame and pursued the last summer? these be the same, whom fleinge before you both day and night, ye chased through the cuntreis. Ye they be the same, that yesterday ye would neither suffer to flee from you, nor yet give them so much time, as to fortify their field. I will no more rehearse things, wherein ye may glory: but now will I declare things, whereof ye ought much to be ashamed. Yester day ye departed from the battle with even hand: and now what hath this day or this night been so great a let unto you, or taken from you? Was your army thereby any whit lessed, or their power any whit increased? Truly me thinketh now, that I speak not to mine own company of soldiers, nor yet to Romans. I perceive here nothing of them, but bodies and armour. For if ye had had the same hearts and minds your enemies should never have looked you on the backs: nor you had lost none of your standards. Before this time he could never glory of the slaughter of any of our company, only yesterday ye gave him the honour by the death of your fellows. ¶ Then every man cried out aloud to him, desiring pardon of the day past: and once again to try the heart and courage of his men, when so ever it should please him. Now (said he) truly and I will prove you again. For I will to morrow in the morning set you forth in array, to the intent that ye as vanquishers may ask forgiveness, rather than as people vanquished.  
¶ On the morrow, after that his men had well eaten and drunken, and made them strong, when he should put his people in order, he set in the v●warde those that fled first the day before, and those companies that lost their standards: and then the other as him best liked, comaundinge them all, earnestly to fight and to overcome their enemies: so that the victory of that present day might fly and come to Rome, before the slander of yesterdays flienge.  
¶ When Hannibal herd of the fierce courage of Marcellus, he said: We have to do now with such an enemy, as can neither suffer his good fortune nor bad. For if he overcome his enemies, he greedily still assaileth them: And when he is overcome, he also fiercely reneweth the wars upon them. After these words, he incontinent brought his host forth into the field, where the battle was more cruel than it was the day before. The Carthaginenses ever striving to keep the honour, and the Romans to avenge the shame gotten the day before. The advantage of the battle between them abode long in suspense. Marcellus, as a present witness, was ever ready to comfort and exhort his Romans. Hannibal, seeing the doubtfulness of the fight and victory, to put his enemies to sudden fear, caused his Elephants to be set against the forward: which at the first coming, brought them out of order, and did them much trouble and hurt: whereby the one part thereof was left bare and void of resistance, and the rest had fled also, had not Decius Flavius a Tribune taken the standard of one of the bands of horsemen, commanding the company belonging to the same standard, to follow him boldly, whom they obeyed: and he incontinent brought them, where the company of elephants did most displeasure, causing most trouble and rumour. Than bad he them couragiousely to throw their darts and spears at those beasts: which they did, wounding many of them: who feeling themselves hurt, with great rage run away, and could not be stayed by them that road on them. The Romans followed them still, and drove thiem upon their own company of spaniards and Carthaginenses, making greater slaughter among them, than they had before done to the Romans. And when they saw the Carthaginenses by this mean brought out of array, the Roman footmen in order entered and broke the array clean, putting them to flight: whom Marcellus caused his horsemen to follow. And the chase ceased not, till they were driven into the yates of their camp, with great loss both of men and of elephants. There were slain that day viii M. men, and five elephants. Of the Romans there were slain three thousand, and very many sore hurt. Whereupon Annibal, the next night following, removed unto the Brutians: and Marcellus abode there a season, to cure his hurt soldiers.   

¶ Home Q. Fabius Maximus recovered from Hannibal the city of Tarent. Cap. xlix.  
IN this season Q. Fabius Max. the consul took Manduria with force, and from thence removed to Tarent, pitching his tents hardeby the mouth of the haven, where he found certain ships, which Livius the late consul had left there for the defence of other ships that brought victual and other necessary provision for the castle. All these ships, and also all other that came with victuals and provision thither, he charged some with guns and stones, and all kind of weapons invasive, some he jaded with scaling ladders, and other engines to assault the town: so that by the sea all things were ready for the assault. And then he by land also ordered his company for the same. Now to help his purpose to be achieved, there chanced a small thing in estimation: yet it proved marvelous happy for the success of his great enterprise. Hannibal had sent to Tarent a crew of men of war of the country of the Brutians. The capitain of this company was marvelously enamoured on a young woman in the city, whose brother was then soldier in the host of Fabius, to whom his sister sent word by letters, of the familiarity and new acquaintance of her earnest lover, and of his great riches and honour. Whereupon this man imagining, and trusting also, that the love of his sister might lead her lover to do what so ever she would devise, conceived an hope, to do good thereby, touching the winning of the town. Whereupon he secretly opened his mind to his captain Fabius, desiring him, that he would licence him to depart from the army, and to go in to the city, which he would undertake to do, by dissembling himself to be stolen away from his company, for the love of his sister, desirous to be a citizen there. The Consul thinking to prove the effect of his opinion, suffered him to depart. Thus came he to his sister, and by her means fell in great familiarity with her lover the capitain of the Brutianes'. And after long acquaintance he began covertly to prove his mind a little and a little. After, when he found some towardness in him, he set his sister in hand with him, who with her fair and flattering words so compassed him, that to have her love, he consented to the betraiing of that part of the City, where of he was ruler and capitain.  
¶ When they were agreed on the time, manner, and circumstance of the purpose: the soldier secretly in the night, was let forth out of the town, and came to his capitain, declaring unto him what he had done, and what way he should take, to achieve his enterprise. At the time and hour appointed, which was the beginning of the night, the Consul had prepared, that on the sea side in the haven, his ships and men of war thereto appointed, should vyolentely assault the town. And on an other part the Romans in the castle, with all their force also, should assail the citizens: and he with a good numbered with him, privily drew him to the east part of the town, where he abode a long season, without making any noise.  
There was great noise and bruit made purposely on the haven side, and on the side towards the castle, where least danger was: So that Democrates the capitain, which was than nigh unto the crew of Brutians, fearing lest in his absence, the Romans might chance on the other side to win the town, which to fear he was moved by the great rumour and cry of the citizens on that part. When he heard all things quiet and at rest on that part of the town, wherein he was: he with his people hasted toward the castle side, where he heard the greatest noise.  
¶ Than the consul, hearing thenoyse ceased of men of arms, which before were very loud, judging that the keepers of that ward were gone from thence: he commanded straight scaling ladders to be set to the walls on that side where the Brutians kept ward, which was done without any resistance. For the Brutians not only made no resistance, but also holp them up. Thus entered they the town, and straight went to the next gate, the which they broke, and caused moche of their company to enter with their banners displayed. And by the break of the day, they came into the market place. The Tarentines perceiving their town to be taken, came with all their power from the castle side, and from the haven, to the succour thereof: but all to late. For after the battle was a little begun, they felt themselves far unable to resist the Romans. Wherefore anon they fled every man to his house, or to his friends house. There were Nico and Democrates slain in battle. Philomenes, the chief autour of betraying the town to Hannibal, took his horse and fled: but whither he went, or what became of him, it was not after known. Great slaughter was made both of the Carthaginenses and of the Tarentines.  
Many prisoners were taken, and a rich spoil. The wall, which Hannibal made to divide the castle from the town, was thrown down.  
¶ Hannibal when he first heard, that Tarent was besieged: he with all hast possible hied thither to the succour thereof. But when he came near thereunto, and heard news of the taking of the city, and by what means, he said: I now do right well find, that the Romans have also an other Hannibal among them. For even by such craft as we wan Tarent, by such have we lost it. Then for that it should not appear, that he were recoiled for fear, he pitched his camp five miles from the city, where he tarried certain days: and from thence went to Metapontus, where he caused letters to be written by two of the chief rulers of the city to Fabius.  
The contents thereof was, that if it would please the Romans and him, to receive them into their grace, and to remit all their old injuries and wrongs to them done: they would deliver into his hands, both the town, and also the garnison of the Carthaginenses, which were within the same. Fabius nothing mistrusting, sent to them again, appointing a time, when he would come to Metapontus to speak with them, which letters were straight borough to Hannibal. Who being very joyous, to train and deceive the old wise Fabius, At the time appointed laid a great embusshement upon the way, where Fabius should pass to Metapontus.  
¶ The same time when Fabius should depart, he sought by divinations and auguries, how he should speed in his voyage, as by the killing of a beast, and therewith to do sacrifice: and by the luck of birds, as the detestable use was then, and long before had been among the Romans. Which auguries were so unlucky and untoward, that they showed to him some evil adventure, if he went forward in his appointed journey. Wherefore the diviners or wise men advised him, to tarry still in his tents, for fear of treason.  
¶ The Metapontans, seeing that Fabius came not at the day assigned, sent again to him, requiring him to come to their captains. Which messengers were incontinente taken and examined upon the case. And they fearing the torments that were prepared for them, confessed all the deceit and treason: whereby Fabius escaped his death, and the destruction of many of his army.   

¶ Scipio fighteth with hasdrubal beside Betula, driveth him from his hill, sleith viii M. of his host, taketh xii M. prisoners, with Massus nephew to Massanissa, and a great pray in the camp. Cap. l.  
IN the same summer time, whiles all these things were done in Italy, P. Scipio being in Spain, had so gotten the love of the spaniards, that Edisco, Indibilis, and Mandonius, three great princes of Spain, were come into his amity and alliance. Indibilis desired, that their coming might not be dishonourable unto them, and that no man should reproach them after, that they were stolen away from their old friends of Carthage, and like light people were run to the Romans: For he said, they had done worthily at all times for them, which their kindness was ever recompensed with pride, avarice, and many injuries: so that only their bodies abode in the amity of Carthage, but their hearts had long been towards the Romans: whom they knew ever to be keepers of their truce taken, and mainteinours of right and equity. Wherefore he desired Scipio, to receive their friendly coming unto him, according to their meaning and intent▪ and as he found them diligent in their service doing unto him, so to esteem them. Scipio heartily thanked them, granting their requests in all things. whereupon their wives and children were restored unto them, which before were captives with Scipio: and a steadfast alliance of amity was knit between them. And soon after their hole power of men of war came to these princes, and joined in camp with the Romans, not departing from them, but guided them ever, till they brought them near the camp of their enemies.  
¶ By this mean was the army greatly increased. Yet besides this, by one other way Scipio polytikely augmented his host. For when he saw no navy of Car●hage was on the sea, so that he needed not to have any great numbered of men in his ships: He brought his hole navy to Tarracon, taking all the soldiers, which were in them, and also the more part of his mariners, with him in the wars by land. With this great host he went forwards, and made such speed, that secretly he came near unto the town of Betula, where hasdrubal lay with his army. At their first coming thither, certain small skirmishes were made between them. But hasdrubal, saying the Romans power daily increased, and his to be made less, thought he would jeopardy to fight without longer prolonging of time. But he determined to seek a place of strength, where he might fight to his advantage, and to the more hurt of his enemies. Wherefore in the night he removed his army to an high hill, near adjoining. In the top whereof there was a fair large plain: on the back side of this hill, there ran a river, which compassed a good part of the hill.  
Furthermore about the mids of this hill, was there another plain field, much lower than the other plain: unto the which neither plain, the ascending was hard and painful. Into this lower field Asd●uball, the day following, sent a great numbered of Numidian horsemen, and other light harnessed footmen of Africa, and of the isles called Baleares, now named Maiorque and Minorque.  
¶ Scipio riding about his host, showed them their enemies. Their hearts (saith he) will not serve them to fight with us on even ground. Wherefore they seek out high mountains, trusting more to the strength of the place, then to their own strength or armour. New Carthage had high walls, which nevertheless was scaled by my Roman soldiers. Neither could the hyghehylles, nor the castle thereof, nor yet the sea withstand their power. I know (saith he) that these high places, which our enemies have chosen, they think shall serve them, to fly from us, by leaping and running down the stiepenesse thereof. But that ways I will also stop from them. Whereupon incontinente Scipio sent two companies of his men of war, commanding the one to keep the mouth of the valley, by which the river ran: and that the other should abide secretly on the way, that lay by the bowing of the mountain, between the town of Betula and the fields: And he himself, with a good number of nimble harnessed men, went straight towards these Numidians and africans, which were on the lower plain of the hill: who suffered them to come almost up without let, save only of the styepenesse of the hill, until they came within the casting of darts. then was the fight sore on both parts, but specially great plenty of stones and other inginnes was thrown from the hill on the Romans. Nevertheless although the hill was very tedious and hard to be won, and they also almost overwhelmed with stones: yet they being nimble and well hearted men, and much used to the approaching and scaling of walls, ceased not to go still uppewarde, till the formooste of them had gotten the plain and even ground. They anon put the numidians to flight, and with great slaughter drove them up to their army, that abode in the highest part of the hill. Thenne Scipio commanded the same his company to go straight up after toward the middle of their enemies. The rest of his host he divided in two parts, whereof he caused Lelius to take the one half, and with them to go about on the right hand of the hill, to espy where he might find a more easy place for them to ascend. He with the other part kept on the left hand. And ere ever he had fet any far compass, clomb up the said mountain, and ran on his enemies, whose backs then were toward him, wherewith the host of the Carthaginenses was sore troubled, and great clamour was made, enforcing them to turn them to resist Scipio and his company, and to change their order, which they were in before. In all this troublous bruit came Lelius on them on the other side, whose coming caused the forward to give back, for fear to be invaded behind, by mean whereof, the middle ward of Scipio got them the hill, which before was not possible for them to have won, the army & elephants keeping their array, the place was so steep to ascend. Then began the Carthaginenses to flee for their safeguard. there was great slaughter made among them that abode, by Scipio and his company: and of those that fled, many were received by the ii companies, which were before laid in embusshement for the same purpose: so that there were slain to the numbered of viii M. men. Asdrubal seeing the beginning of the battle nothing prosperous after his intent, sent his money, and many of his elephants away before him▪ and he followed after with as many as could save themselves with flying: and passing the river of Tagus, went straight toward the mountains of Pyreneis. ¶ Scipio, coming to the camp of the Carthaginenses, gave all the pray thereof to his soldiers, except the prisoners, which were in numbered ten thousand footmen, and ii M. horsemen: of which numbered, so many as were spaniards, he let go at liberty freely, without ransom paying: the rest he caused to be sold by the Quaestor. Than gave he large gifts to the princes of spain, specially to Indibilis he gave iii C. horses, the best he could choose of all that were taken. Through which his liberal distribution, the communes of Spain called him king: which name, Scipio declared to them, that it was very odious and detestable to the Romans. Wherefore he desired them, to abstain from calling him by that name. For with the name of governor or captain, he was well contented.  
¶ When the Quaestor was about to sell the prisoners by the captains commandment, among other he found a goodly young child of xu years old: whom he sent to Scipio, for that he herd of him, that he was descended of lineage royal. Of whom Scipio inquired, what he was, & of what country, and how he, being of no greater age, happened to be in the camp among men of war. He answered, that he was of Numidia, and was named Massus. His father (he said) was dead. Wherefore his mother sent him to her father Sala king of Numidia, and from that time he had been brought up with his uncle Massanissa. And when his uncle came over into Spain, to the succour of the Carthaginenses, he came also with him. But ever when he went to any batteil, his uncle would not suffer him to go with him. So that before this time (he said) he never came in the field. And now it was also unware to his said uncle. But when every man made him ready, he privily also took an horse and harneys, and entered the battle with them. But his chance was so evil, that he had now a fall from his horse, whereby he was taken of the Romans. Scipio demanded of him, whether he were not desirous to return to Massanissa. To whom he answered, weeping for joy, that he would be very glad, if his chance were so good. Then Scipio gave him a ring of gold, a cote, a senators garment, a spanysshe cloak, a goodly horse, well harnessed, and a buckle of gold, and suffered him to depart to his uncle at his pleasure, appointing him horsemen to conduct him on the way, so far as he would have them.  
¶ After these things done, he bestowed the rest of the summer in receiving many people and Cities of Spain in to the amity of the Romans, and remained at Tarracon.  
¶ soon after the battle fought at Betula, the other Asdrubal, the son of Gysgon, and Mago with their armies came from the further part of Spain, to the help of the other Asdrubal: but all to late. For the battle was paste before their coming. Wherefore they consulted, what was best be done. At the last, considering that Scipio, by gifts and his liberality, had won the hearts of the hither parts of Spain, and that only the people of the furthest part of the country towards the Gades or pillars of Hercules, knew as yet nothing of him, nor of the Romans, wherefore they were sure friends to the Carthaginenses: they determined, that of necessity they must remove all their soldiers of Spain, either to the furthest parts of Spain, or else into France: or else in short space they would all turn to the friendship of the Romans.  
¶ They also agreed, that Asdrubal, taking with him all the spaniards out of Spain, and far from the name of Scipio, should go over the mountains with them towards Hannibal into Italy, where the head and chief ground of the wars was.  
¶ Furthermore, that Mago, leaving his host with Asdrubal the son of Gysgon, should pass over the sea into the isles called Baleares, now called Maiorque and Minorque, with a great sum of money, where he should also hire many more soldiers for their help in this purpose. After whose departing, Asdrubal, the son of Gysgon, with all his host, was appointed to departed into Portugal, and that he should in no wise fight with the romans. Than had Massanissa iii M. of the best and lightest horses and men appointed to be with him: with which numbered he was assigned to peruse and ride abroad the countries, helping the cities, friends of the Carthaginenses, and to spoil and destroy the towns and fields of their enemies. With these intentes and minds every one of the captains departed from other, making great speed to achieve their enterprise.   

¶ Marcellus the Consul is slain by an imbushement laid by Hannibal, Crispinus the other consul, and Marcellus son be sore hurt. Capi li.  
THe fame of Scipio daily increased at Rome. Also Q. Fabius Maximus had gotten great honour by winning the town of Tarent. But Marcellus by mean of enemies was run in great infamy. For it was reported, that Hannibal roving abroad in the country, he kept his host in the summer season in the town of Venusia. Marcellus to purge him of this slanderous name came to Rome, against the time of choosing of officers. Thither came also Q. Fuluius Flaccus the consul. There was the cause of Marcellus openly debated. And C. Bibulus, one of the Tribunes, charged him sore, saying, that the negligence of Marcellus, and other such like, was the cause of Hannibal's so long abode in Italy, This is (said he) the tenth year, since he came first into this country. He hath lived almost as long in Italy, as he hath done in Carthage. At the choosing of officers, ye willed M. Claudius Marcellus to continue a year longar in his office: and now if ye will know the fruit that he hath brought forth this year, by the mean thereof, ye shall understand, that he hath his host two times beaten; and many of them slain this year. And in the chief of summer, he hath kept the residue of his men at Venusia, within the sure walls of the same.  
¶ To this accusation Marcellus so wisely and soberly answered, showing his policies and his acts done against Hannibal, that his excuse was not only well taken, but also for his well doing, the day following he was, by the hole consent of the people, chosen consul: And Titus Quintus Crispinus was chosen to be his fellow. They both were appointed to keep Italy against Hannibal. Marcellus went to his old army to Venusia, taking with him divers other, to supply the places of those that were before slain. Crispinus seeing the honour that was grown to Fabius by winning of Tarent, thought to besiege the city of Locrus. Wherefore he sent for all manner of ordinances to Sicilia, with ships also to assault the same by sea as well as by land. But hearing of the coming of Hannibal to Lacinium, he left his purpose for a season, and joined his host with his fellow Marcellus, who as than was come from Venusia into the country of Apulia, where they both encamped their armies iii miles the one from the other. Thither came also Hannibal soon after that he perceived the consul Crispinus had left of his besieging of the Locrenses, and in the same country pitched his camp and tents. He had the year before assayed the power and heart of Marcellus, sometime with winning, sometime with loss of men. Wherefore fearing with the power of both the consuls to be overmatched, he than divysed, how with policies and craft to deceive them. The consuls made divers skirmishes with his men, thinking with such trifling frays to pass forth the summer, and to keep him occupied: yet nevertheless, they trusted to be strong enough also for the besieging of Locrus. Wherefore they sent to Sicilia, causing L. Cincius, with his navy and army, to come to the besieging of Locrus by the sea. Furthermore to assail it also by land, they commanded part of the army, which lay for the defence of Tarent, to be brought thither. This appointment was not so privily done, but that Hannibal had knowledge thereof by certain of the Thurines. whereupon against the time appointed of their coming, he sent an embusshement of two thousand horsemen, and three thousand footmen, to lie secretly under the hill of Petillia, upon the way, whereby the Roman Tarentines should pass. The Romans unadvisedly passing by the way, were among them to their great hurts: for two thousand of them were there slain, and one. M. and two hundred taken prisoners, the rest that escaped, fled by divers ways back again to Tarent. The consuls lay in their several camps, not far from the camp of Hannibal. Now was there in the middle way between the Romans camp and him, a great hill, full of wood, not taken nor viewed by any of them both. The romans feared for to view it, for that they doubted, what manner of ground the uttermost part thereof was toward their enemies. Neither was it viewed of Hannibal: for that he esteemed the same to be a place more meet for to deceive his enemies, than for to pitch thereon his camp. Wherefore he in the night sent thither a company of Numidian horsemen to lie privily in the middle of the wood, without moving or making any noise in the day time, for fear to be espied. The Romans ever cried to their capitains, that they should take the said hill, and pitch there, one of their camps, for fear lest Hannibal should take it before them. Than said Marcellus to his fellow Crispinus, let us then, with a certain horsemen with us, go view the same hill: by the ●yghte whereof, we may dispose all things accordingly. Being thus agreed, they taking with them ii hundred and twenty horsemen, went both to survey the said hill and wood. Whom young Marcellus, the consul's son, and Aulus Manlius being both tribunes, followed. So covetous was the mind of Marcellus to join battle with Hannibal, that he thought he could never join his camp nigh enough to the camp of his enemy. Wherefore at his departing, he caused his people to be in a readiness: that in case the place liked them, that they might gather up the vessels, and all their stuff, and follow them from their camps.  
¶ The capitains passed through a little plain field, and from thence they entered into a fair broad way or riding, which went up into the woods. At the top of this riding, the Numidians had set an espy to watch, not thinking of any so great a pray as happened them to come: but only to watch for forrageours or wood caryars, that should hap to rove abroad for victuals, wood, or such necessaries. This espy warned them of the Romans coming, and of the numbered, and gave them a sign, when every man of them should leap out of his secret den: which he craftyly executed. For he gave them not the sign to issue out, till the Romans were so far passed in their wa●e, that the hyndermoste part of the embusshement might enclose them, and stop their way behind them, by that time the foremost of the embushement assailed them before. Than on all parts they issued out, and laid on the Romans. The consuls saying themselves stopped, both before and behind, fought manfully themselves, and comforted their fellows, thinking to prolong the battle till succours might come to them. But the other were so fierce, that part of the Romans fled. Never the less the rest fought for a season, till they saw Crispinus sore wounded, and his fellow Marcellus, thrust thorough with a spear, fall dead to the ground. than the rest that were left on live fled with Crispinus the Consul, who was sore hurt with two darts, and young Marcellus, being also sore wounded. Aulus Manlius was there slain, with Marcus Aulius, and four and forty other horsemen. Arenius, with five sergeants of the consuls, and eighteen other horsemen, were taken prisoners.   

¶ Hannibal craftily sendeth letters to Salapia, sealed with Marcellus signet. Asdrubal passeth the mountains with his army, to meet his brother Hannibal. Cap. lii.  
HANNIBAL knowing that great fear would be in the Roman host, by the death of the one consul, and also by the wounding of the other: to put them to further fear, he incontinent removed his host into the same hill, where the battle had been before, where he pitched his Campe. There found he the body of Marcellus, which he caused to be buried. Crispinus being sore feared with the death of his fellow, and also with his own wounds: in the night following removed secretly his army into the highest and next hill, that he for his surety could find, there pitching his camp and tents. Both the captains endeavoured themselves, to the uttermost, the one to deceive, and the other to eschew deceit.  
¶ Hannibal, with the body of Marcellus, found also his ring, with his signet: whereby he trusted to work deceitful conclusions. Crispinus mystrustinge also the same, sent with speed word to all the cities of the Romans, near adjoining, warning them, that his fellow Marcellus was slain, and that Hannibal had gotten his signet. Wherefore he commanded them, in no wise to give credence to any letters that should be sent unto them, sealed with the seal of Marcellus, or made in his name. Soon after a messenger came to Salapia from Hannibal, with letters written and sealed in the name of Marcellus: showing unto them, that the night following Marcellus would privily come thither. Wherefore he commanded the captains and garrison to be ready at his coming, to know his further pleasure, what was to be done. The Salapiens finding craft in the writing, sent back the messengers to Hannibal with gentle answer. And they the night prefixed, set sure watch and ward on the walls, specially on that part of the town, and at that gate, where they deemed their enemies would come. A little before the day came Hannibal, with a great company with him. The first company that came to the yates, was of Romans, that were departed from the country, & taken in wages by Hannibal. They had all Roman armour, and when they came to the gate, they spoke latin, as did the Romans, waking the watchmen, and bidding them to open the gate to the consul. The watch arose, and with great levers life up the port colyes so high, that men might entre under it. Then the said band of Romans runaways, entered so fast as they might. But when they were entered, to the numbered of vi C. of them, the rope, which did hold up the portcolyes, was let slip, and fell down with great noise making. The Salapiens, with small resistance, slew them that were entered the town. For that they, mystrustinge no such thing, bore their harness hanging on their shoulders, thinking to have entered with peace. Many of the town with spears and darts, chased their enemies from the gate and walls.  
¶ Thus Hannibal, being taken in his own trap, was deceived: and from thence departed, to raise the siege of his friends the Locrenuns, whom Cincius, with his soldiers and ordinance, that came from Sicilia, kept very hard and straight.  
¶ Mago was in the city, who hearing of the death of Marcellus, took some comfort unto him. But when he hard tidings, that Hannibal had sent his Numidian horsemen before him, and was coming himself after with his footmen, as speedily as he might, he was then without fear. Wherefore when he espied afar of the Numidians approaching, he caused the gate to be opened, and in array with his folk issued out upon the Romans. His sudden coming on them, more than his strength, caused the battle to endure for a season doubtful. But when the Numidians were also come, the Romans were so stricken with fear, that without order they ran toward their ships, leaving behind them all their ordinance, wherewith they had beaten the walls. And by this mean was the siege of the Locrensis raised.  
¶ Crispinus the consul sent letters to Rome, both of his fellows death, and also of his sore hurts: which letted him so, that he could not come to Rome to the choosing of the consuls. The senators were very pensive, to see two consuls armies destitute of captains. Wherefore at the day of the election, they looked about, to find two wisd and circumspect persons for that office, who had been acquainted with the deceits of Hannibal. first they above other liked C. Claudius Nero, whom they knew to be a valiant man, and a good capitain. But they esteemed him to be to quick for that time of the wars, and to match that soobre capitain Hannibal.  
Wherefore they devised to match his quickens, with a sober fellow of great temperance. Then was there one M. Livius, a man of great soberness, late come again into the city. He had before been consul about viii years passed, and in his consulship was condemned by the commons, without fault: and put out of his office. Which shame to him done, he took so displeasantly, that leaving the city, he went forth into the country, to dwell out of the company of men. And viii years after his condemnation, M. Marcellus, and M. Valerius Levinus the consuls, brought him home again into the city: but they found him foul and evil appareled, his hear and beard long, as a token of his shame received. But at this time the censors caused him to round his hear, and putting on other clean garments, to come in to the senate house. When he was brought thither, and the fathers were examined of their opinions of M. Livius, touching the office of consul: They agreed all, both senators and the commons, that it were a meet couple of him and Claudius Nero. But he alone refused the office, accusing the citizens of their unkind lightness, saying:  
¶ I marvel moche, ye lay now the burden of this office on me, whom ye of late thrust out of that same office, thinking me unworthy thereof. If ye account me to be a good and an honest man, why then did ye condemn me as an evil man, and as an offender? And sins ye judged, that I evil governed the consulship, wherein I last was: why trust ye me now again with the same room?  
¶ With such words he accused the fathers and also the commons. But the senators rebuked him for his words, shewing him the example of M. Furius Camillus, which though he were banished the city of Rome, yet was he after restored again: For (said they) like as the child ought to suffer the sharp punishment of his father: so ought every man to suffer the punishment of his country, with patience and gentleness.  
¶ With these words they appeased him, and caused him to take on him the said office.  
¶ The one consul was appointed to keep the war against Hannibal in Italy, lest he should draw near to Asdrubal, coming from the mountains to his succour: The other was assigned to meet Asdrubal, the fame of whom was, that he began to approach the mountains, to th'intent to come over, to join his power with his brother Hannibal. The opinion of Hannibal did also mo●he help the Romans in this purpose. For although he knew, that his brother would that summer pass the mountains, to come over to him: yet when he remembered the manifold lets that he had himself, as in passing the river of Rhodanus, and then the dangerous mountains, striving both with men and perilous places, wherein he had spent five months, he looked not for so speedy and quick coming of his brother. which caused him to be so long, ere ever he removed from the place, where he wintered with his army. But in this he was much deceived. For Asdrubal had better speed in his passage, than he looked for himself. For the frenchmen, and also the mountaynoys, did not only receive him, and suffered him with his army to pass their countries: but also they followed him to the wars, leading him many sure ways, which to Hannibal his brother, were then unable to be passed. Again, the ways over the mountains, by the continual use of going over them, were made moche more easy than they were, and the people more gentle to entreat. For before Annibals' coming, they were not used to the company of strangers, neither had seen any before in the country. wherefore they were wild and savage people. They thought also at the first time, that the Carthaginenses had come to take their castles and cattle from them. But now the fame of the war holden in Italy, between the Romans and the Carthaginenses, taught them, and made them to know, that the hole contention between those noble head cities of the world, being so far distant asunder, was only for the honour and for riches: so that they would try, whether of them should possede the dominion of the hole.  
¶ These causes known, made the mountains open and easy for Asdrubal to pass: but his speed was not so good in passing the same, as his let was great in the besieging of Placentia. When he was come over, he had thought the city, being in a fair plain country, had been easy to win: and by the fame of the winning thereof, he thought all other cities adjoining, should have trembled for fear. But the strength thereof much deceived him, and that knew Hannibal full well. For when he came over the river of Trebia, he in vain had assayed the strength thereof. So that Hasdrubal'S assieginge of Placentia was not only a let of his own journey: but also it stayed Hannibal moche longer: after he hard thereof, ere ever he set forth of the place, where he wintered with his host.  
¶ The consuls with their armies went to their provinces, M. Livius towards Placentia, whom ere he departed, Q. Fabius warned and exhorted, that he should not over hastily fight with his enemies, before he knew the manners and conditions of them. To whom Livius, remaining yet in displeasure toward his citizens for his banishment, answered: that he would fight with them so soon as he might have fight of them. When the cause was demanded of him, why he would make therm such haste: Truly (said he) either I will quickly have great honour, by subduing mine enemies, or else great joy, by the slaying of mine own unkind citizens. Which joy although it be to me not honest: yet shall it be according to their deservings.  
¶ Quintus Claudius Nero made haste, till he approached near unto Hannibal: who as than was gone into the country of the Lucanes, and lay by the town of Grument. Claudius had in his army forty thousand footmen, and two thousand and five hundred horsemen: Hannibal gathering together as much power as he could among the Brutians, and from such fortresses as he than held: lay encamped nigh unto the walls of Grument: and within half a mile of them was the camp of the Romans. Between both the camps there was a goodly plain valley, having on the one side fair plain hills, without any woods or covert, for to hide any embusshement, or cause deceit. Wherefore it was the less suspect to both parties. These hills lay adjoining to the left side of the Carthaginenses, and to the right side of the Romans. In the plain meadow were many light eskyrmysshes made between the hosts, and many excursyons the Roman consul caused to be made only to keep his enemies there from going toward Asdrubal.  
¶ On the other side Hannibal, desirous to remove out of that place with all his power intended to give him battle. Wherefore he put his whole host in array. Claudius' Nero, perceiving his intent, caused secretly the night following, Titus Assellus, and P. Claudius' two tribunes, with a good number of men with them, to pass over the said hill, adjoining, and to abide in the valley behind the hills, appointing them a time, when they should descend from the mountain on the back of their enemies. He himself in the break of the day, with the rest of his footmen and horsemen, came into the field in good array. Hannibal likewise commanded his men to arm them, and great noise was made in the camp, every man running to harness. And when they were armed, they ran out of the camp yates, both horsemen and footmen, without array before Hannibal had knowledge thereof. And as soon as they were out of the Camp in the plain, they ran to their enemies, fighting both on horseback and on foot, as chance gave them to meet with their enemies, keeping none order.  
¶ When the Consul saw them thus rounning abroad in the field without order, he commanded C. Arunculeus, with the horsemen of a legion, to invade the Carthaginenses, with as much violence as he might: whereby he might slay them, being without order like beasts, before they could be brought in array. Which he did diligently execute, making great slaughter. The battle was strong for a season, by reason of continual resort of fresh soldiers, running to the succours of their fellows.  
¶ Hannibal, being yet in his camp, hearing the noise of his men fighting, came forth with the rest of his power, and so diligently applied himself: that even as his men were fighting, he put many of them in array. Which thing hath not been lightly seen, and therein he showed himself to be an expert capitain, having old and well acquainted warryours under him. And thus had he brought his whole host in order, as they were still fighting: had not C. Assellus, with his bands of Romans, suddenly descended from the hills, at the back of the Carthaginenses, with great clamour: By the means whereof, they being afeard lest they should be stopped from their camp, began to flee on all parts. The horsemen slew many of them in the chase: and many more had been slain, had not the camp been so near at hand. yet lost Hannibal of his men at that battle viii M. which were slain, and seven. C. taken alive. The next day, and divers days after, the Romans in array kept the field, desirous to fight, but the Carthaginenses abode still in their tents.  
¶ Soon after in the night, Hannibal, with his army, removed towards Apulia, making great fires before the camp, towards the Romans, and leaving in the entry of his camp, certain Numydian horsemen for a show, till he with his host might be far gone from his enemies. When it was day light, the said Numidians showed themselves in the gate of the camp for a season, purposely to deceive the Romans: and when they saw their time, they speedily road after their company.  
¶ Than the consul, hearing no noise in the tents of his enemies, sent two light horsemen to view their camp, who finding it void of their enemies, returned to Claudius, certifiing him of their departing. Whereupon he with his host went thither, and took the spoil of such baggage as was there lest: and on the morrow early followed the Carthaginenses, by the fame that they heard of their way, by which they were gone. Hannibal, no more willing to fight, took his way ever in the night, and over the mountains, till he came to Metapontus: where he took of Hanno, the soldiers, which were there left, and joined them to his army, sending him with a small numbered with him, into the country of the Brutians, there to assemble more men of war to his succour.   

¶ Of the great battle between Asdrubal and the consuls, in which Asdrubal was slain, with six and thirty thousand men, beside many that were taken, with a great spoil. Cap. liv.  
ASdruball, leaving his further assieging of Placentia, sent four frenchmen, and two Numidians to his brother Hannibal with letters: who passing all Italy, hearing that Hannibal should then be at Metapontus, followed him thither: But ere they were ware, they lost their way, and came to the fields of Tarent, where they were taken, and sent to Claudius Nero with their letters. Who when he had red them, and knew by the contents thereof, that Asdrubal intended to meet his brother in Vmbria, thinking then to be no time meet for the common wealth, to tarry the determination of the senate: he imagined, that he would enterprise some strange thing, whereby he should put both the citizens of Rome, and also his enemies in great fear. But at length, when it was achieved, it should turn the whole city from great fear into marvelous gladness. Wherefore he sent the said letters to Rome, with other his own letters of his intended enterprise. And incontinent sent messengers before him, to all the towns & countries, by which he with his army should pass: commanding them to bring forth into the fields against his coming, victuals, horses, and other necessaries for his soldiers. Than of his whole army he chose out vi thousand footmen, and one. M. horsemen: saying and publishing, that with them he intended to assault the next town of the Lucan's, & to take the Carthaginenses, which were there left for the keeping thereof. With this company in the night he departed, making as great haste as he might in his journey, to come to the help of his fellow Livius, before he should have to do with Asdrubal: leaving Quintus Tatius in his camp, to rule and govern the rest of his host. At Rome the consuls letters made all men no less afeard, than they were two years past, when the Carthaginenses had pitched their tents before the walls of Rome. They doubted, whether they might allow or disallow that bold enterprise of the consul, which did appear to hang all upon chance. They knew the camp was left very near to Hannibal, with an army dispurveyed of a captain: ye and the flower and strength of the same army was taken away with the capitain, leaving his camp sure in nothing, but only by the ignorance of his enemies, who were not privy as then of the consuls absence. But what if it happened to be known, and that it chanced Hannibal with his whole army to follow Nero, having with him but vi thousand footmen armed, and one. M. horsemen: or that he would assail the rest, which were left in the camp, without strength or good governance. The evil chances, which they had before sustained in the wars, with the late death of ii consuls in one year, increased their fear, which all had happened to them, when there was but one capitain and one army of their enemies in Italy. Now they knew ii mighty armies ii valiant captains: ye almost ii Hannibal's, to be in the country. For Asdrubal the son also of Amilcar, had many years in Spain, made war against the romans, where he had had two noble victories, slaying two great armies, and also ii Scipions, the noble captains of the same. Furthermore, that he might glory above Hannibal, both of his speedy passage over the mountains, and also of drawing with him the frenchmen to battle. For even where the one had almost lost the greater part of his men, by hunger and cold (which two be the greatest miseries of war): even there had the other gathered together a great puissance. They reckoned also, that Claudius Nero should have to do with a witty capitain, whom he knew before had mocked & illuded him in Spain like a child, with deceitful intreting of conditions of peace: whereby he escaped out of the straits, wherein he was endangered. Thus through fear (which is th'interpreter of all things to the worst) they esteemed the power of their enemies to be great, and their own to be small.  
¶ In the mean time Nero the consul, after he had so far travailed from the danger of his enemies, that he judged he might safely discover his secret enterprise: he then called together his soldiers, and spoke unto them saying:  
There was never any enterprise taken in hand by any captain, which was in appearance more bold, and in effect more sure than this was. For I will now bring you (said he) to a certain and sure victory. For we go to a battle, for the which my fellow Livius had before as many footmen and horsemen appointed him of the senate, as he would desire. Ye such a numbered as he would not have desired a greater, if he should have been appointed to fight with Hannibal himself: and now, by the fame of the coming of the other consul, with his army, being joined to the other: we shall not fail to have an undoubted victory. For fame is the thing that giveth victory in battle. Yea small things oft times drive the hearts and minds of men, either in to fear or in to a good hope. And the hole glory and honour of all the good speed shall be given to us. For ever that, which cometh last, draweth all the honour to it.  
¶ With this comfort he led them forward on their way, passing by a great multitude of men and women of the country, that came forth to meet them with great favour and praise giving: naming them the patrons and defenders of the common wealth, and of the hole empire of Rome, in whose hands then lay the health wealth and liberty, both of them and of their children. Wherefore they prayed unto the gods for their prosperous return with victory and triumph. And in declaring their love towards their soldiers, they offered them cattle, victuals, and other necessary things, which they heartily desired them to take at their pleasure. And they on the other side, thankfully receiving that they needed, went on their way, eating when they were hungry, and but seldom took any rest, till they came near to the camp of the other consul M. Livius. Then sent Claudius' messengers to his fellow, advertising him of his coming, to know his mind, whether it were best for him and his company, to come to him privily or openly, in the night time or in the day: and whether he should enter in to his camp, or make an other camp for himself and his army: Livius answered, that best it was, he entered into his camp secretly in the night. For the more surety whereof, he gave a privy watch word or token, whereby one tribune should receive an other, one centurio or hundredour an other, one horseman an other, and one footman should receive an other. And it was thought, that there was space enough in the first camp, to receive him and his company, sense those that came with Claudius Nero brought little more with them, but only their armour, for the spedinesse of their war. Livius tents were then pitched near to Sena, and Asdrubal rested not passed half a mile thence. When Nero approached, he covered him with mountains and hills, till it was night. Then keeping great silence, they entered the camp of Livius, and were every man brought into the tents by his like officer, where they were friendly and gently received, with great joy and gladness. L. Portius the praetor had his camp joining to the camp of the consul. The day following they counseled, what was best then to be done. Some gave advise, that Nero with his company, being weary, should rest them certain days, and that the battle should be differred, till they were fully refreshed of their long travail: and in the mean time to know the manner of their enemies. But Nero would in no wise agree thereto, he instantly desired them so to work, that his secret enterprise, which by his swift coming thither was made sure, should not by their long tarrying be made foolish and void. For Annibal being deceived, keepeth him close in his tents, not knowing of my coming hither, nor of the unsure leaving of mine army in my camp: but this deceit can not long behyd. With speed making Asdrubal and his host may be overthrown, ere ever I depart: and then may I with like speed return to my company into Apulia. But who so by prolonging of the time, giveth space to his enemies, he causeth my camp in Apulia to be delivered to Hannibal, and openeth the way for him to come hither to be joined to his brother, Asdrubal at his pleasure. Wherefore incontinent let us go to battle: and thereby both our enemies, that be absent in Apulia, and also those that be here present at hand, shallbe deceived: the other by thinking our numbered there to be no less than it was, and these by thinking your numbered to be nothing increased.  
¶ After these earnest words of Claudius, they departed from the counsel, and every man armed himself, and were put in good order of battle. The Carthaginenses also were already come out of their camp, and stood in array ready to fight, and both the armies had without tarrying gone together, had not Asdrubal for a season caused his company to stay. He, with certain other horsemen in his company, road before his host: where he perceived amongs the Romans, to be many old shields, which he had not seen before. Also he marked many carrion lean and over laboured horses. He thought also the numbered of his enemies was greater than it was wont to be. Wherefore having a mistrust of that, which in deed was true: he blewe the retreat. And incontinent sent certain of his men to the river, where the Roman horses were watered, to espy and mark, whether any of their horses were discoloured by dashing with mire of the way, or with dust: whereby they might appear to be of late journeyed. He also caused some other to ride a far of about their camps, to see, whether the trench that environed the camp, were enlarged any whit or not. Furthermore to mark, whether the trumpet, did sound once or two times within the camp of the Romans. Nothing deceived him so moche, as when word was brought him, that the camps were nothing enlarged: but that there were but twain as was before, one of livius consul, the other of L. Portius: and neither of them altered otherwise then they first were. Nevertheless it troubled him sore, being a wise man and much used to wars with the Romans, when it was showed him, that the trumpet blewe but ones in the praetors camp: but in the other it blewe two times: wherefore he judged surely, that both the consuls were there. whereupon he began to muse, how the other consul should be departed from his brother Hannibal. He could not devise the thing as it was, that his brother was so illuded by the departing of the captain from his camp, which was not far of, with part of his power. He judged, that he had sustained some great loss: whereby he durst not follow the consul. Wherefore he feared greatly, lest when all was lost before, he was come to late to his brother with socours. He also mistrusted, that his letters never came to Hannibal's hands, but that they, with his messengers, were taken up by the way: upon the sight whereof the other consul was come with haste to vanquish him also. Being in this great perplexity, he caused all the fires to be put out, and every man to truss up his stuff and baggage: and in the beginning of the night, he with his hole host departed secretly, following two guides. Who had not far gone with them, but partly for fear, and partly being troubled with the rumour of the army, took no good heed to their way: wherefore they secretly slipped away, leaving them without a guide. Some wandered abroad in the fields, some being weary and overwatched, laid them boon to sleep and to rest them, leaving their standards. When the day appeared, Asdrubal caused his standards to go before the host along the side of the river of Metaurus, seeking for fords, where he might pass over: but the further he went up the river, the higher were the banks. Thus wandering still after the croaks and turnings of the bank, seeking a place of passage: he spent a great part of the day in waste: whereby the Romans had gotten time and space to follow them. first Nero with his horsemen over took them: soon after came Lucius Portius with his light harnessed men. They slew many of Asdrubal his folk, that abode behind in the fields to rest them. Asdrubal seeing no remedy to escape, sought for some hill by the river side, whereon he might lodge his host. By that time was Livius also come with all his power of footmen, armed and in good array. Then joining their companies together, they put every man in order. Claudius' Nero led the right wing. Livius kept the left wing. Portius the praetor came in the middle ward.  
¶ When Asdrubal saw to remedy, but that he must needs fight, he left the fortifying of his camp, and put his people in array. In the forefront he set his elephants: about them on the left hand against Claudius Nero the consul, he set his frenchmen: not for that he trusted to them much himself, but because he thought his enemies feared them most. The right wing he kept himself with his spaniards, his old mean of war, in whom his most trust was. The Liguriens, men of a country of Italy, were set in the middle behind the elephants. There was a great hylse between the frenchmen and Claudius Nero: so that he by no means with his host, might come to fight with them. Wherefore they stood still a good space without doing of any thing. But between Asdrubal and Livius fierce and mortal was the fight. There were the great numbered of Roman footmen against the multitude of Spaniards his expert warryours, and also against the Liguriens, which were very strong and valiant men. The elephants also did at the first moche displeasure. Claudius' seeing that he could not have to do with the frenchmen, turned about his company, and fetching a compass, came on the other side of Asdruballes army. Than were the spaniards and the Liguriens slain on all parties, and the fight was already come to the frenchmen, who were able to make small resistance: for many of their company were shrunken away and feeble for labour and overwatching, as they be a people that can not well away with pain. Many of them were there slain. Many also of the elephants were slain by the Romans, but more by their own rulars that road upon them. For after they were ones stricken and afeard, the beasts were so unruly, and did so much hurt to their own Carthaginenses host: that their own keepers and riders slew them.  
¶ Asdrubal, like a full noble captain, handled himself in that battle, sometime fyght●ng valiantly in his own person, sometime exhorting his men manfully to fight, sometime he desired his weary soldiers to take some pain for him, and for their own lives, sometime he rebuked their sluggishness. And if any began to flee, he anon brought them back to the battle, and restored again the field, which in divers places was slaked. At the last, when he saw no help, but that without remedy he must lose the field: not minding to live after so great a slaughter of his men and friends, which for his sake undertook that voyage: he ran his horse with the spurs into the middle of the Roman host: where to declare the noble valour of his stomach, of whom he was descended, like the son of Amilcar, and brother to Hannibal, he valiantly fought, and fighting was slain. Great was the slaughter of the Carthaginenses in that battle: so that it was thought equal to the Romans loss at Cannas, as well for the numbered of menslayne, as for the loss of the captains. There was of Hasdrubal'S host in this battle slain six and thirty thousand men, and there were .v. thousand and four hundred taken prisoners. The pray at the spoil was great, both of gold and silver, and also of the Roman prisoners, which before Asdrubal bade taken. Of which Roman prisoners, there were found above four M. The romans lost in this battle almost viii M. men. On the morrow word was brought to Livius, that those frenchmen and Ligures, which were left on live at the battle the day before, were now assembled together again, and went away without any capitain or keeping good order, so that they might soon be all slain, if he would send but one wing of horsemen to pursue them. Not so said Livius, we will suffer some of our enemies to escape, which shall remain and be messengers, both of the destruction of our enemies, and also of our noble honour and prowess.  
¶ Claudius Nero, the night after the battle fought, departed with his company again toward his own camp, making so much hast in his return, that the sixth day following he was come to his own camp, and to the frontiers of his enemy Annibal, he made such speed, that no messenger was come thither before him, which had brought any news of the victory. Wherefore his personalle coming, with the sudden declaration of their good speed, caused so great joy and gladness in the Roman army, as though an heavenly comfort had been sent them after an extreme dolour. At Rome also, when news were brought of their prosperus success, such joy was made, as can not well be expressed. For after Claudius departing toward his selowe, from the son rising to the some setting, the senators never departed from the senate house: neither went the citizens out of the market place. The matrons of the city were in continual prayers: so that with their clamour, pilgrimages, and vows, their God's were all wearied. But whame the certainty of the victory, the great occision of their enemies, with the death of the capitain, was brought the●● by the legates of the consuls: their suspended hoop was suddenly turned into a perfect joy, which passed measure. Th●n began the merchants to buy, to sell, to pay, to receive, and to make all manner of contracts, as they were wont to do intime of peace.  
¶ Claudius the consall, returning from the battle, brought with him the head of Asdrubal: which at his first coming, he caused to be thrown before the entry of Hannibal's camp. He also caused the Africans, which he had taken prisoners in the battle, bounden as they were, to be set before his camp: to the intent his enemies might see them. And for the more increase of Hannibal's sorrow, he loosed two of his said Africans prisoners, commanding them to go to Hannibal, and to declare unto him, the order of all things as they had been done in the battle: wherewith he was so stricken with sorrow, both for the loss of so great noumbee of men of his brother's army, as also for the loss of his friends and famylyars, that he said, he knew full well, what should be the fortune and fatal chance of Carthage within short space. whereupon he removed into the fields of the Brutians. And for that he had no power left him of men, to defend his fortresses, that yet held, being so far of: he gathered together all the Metapontanes and the Lucanes, such as were his friends: and brought them all into the country of the Brutians, where he remained for a season, counseling, what were best for him to do.   

¶ Scipio in dyvies battles discom●iteth the Carthaginenses, taketh Hanno on ●yue, dryucth hasdrubal and Mage, with all their power, clean out of Spain, Cap. liv.  
IN Spain between the romans and the Carthaginenses thus was the country divided. Asdrubal, the son of Gysgon, was driven with his company into the uttermost part of Spain, and to the isles called the Gades. The rest of the country eastwardes, was under the dominion of the Romans, unless it were very few cities, which were kept by the africans: to whose succours Hanno, a new captain was sent from Africa, with a new army, in steed of Asdrubal, that was slain. This Hanno had also hired a great number of men of war in Celtiberia. With this great host he joined to Mago. Against whom Scipio sent M. silanus, with ten M. footmen, and v. C. horsemen. And he passing the high hills, and manifold dangerous passages and straits of spain, made such speed, that by the guiding of certain runaways of Celtiberia, he came within ten miles of his enemies, before any knowledge was had, or any fame was bruited of his coming. There he stood for a season, till he had by the said runaways or espies knowledge, that his enemies were lodged in ii camps: the Celtiberiens on the left hand of the high way, and were to the numbered of ix M. soldiers, the Carthaginenses were on the right hand. silanus first assailed the Celtiberiens: who by the means of Mago, were soon put in order. The battle endured sore for a season: and somewhat the longer, by means of resort of the Carthaginenses, which came from the other camp to the help of the Celtiberiens. At the last Mago, seeing his part like to be put to the worst, with two thousand footmen, and the whole power of horsemen, that were left on live, fled unto the Gades, and came to Asdrubal. Hanno, the other capitain, was taken on live: with many other noble prisoners.  
¶ Soon after the battle with Hanno, Cornelius Scipio departed to Tarracon, leaving in that country L. Scipio his brother, with ten thousand footmen, and one thousand horsemen. who after his brothers departing with this power, assanted the town● of Qungin: not without pain. For they scarcely were suffered to put their scaling ladders to the walls: so great was the violence of the darts and other engines, which were thrown at them. And so soon as any were raised up thereunto, and men thereon, striving to ascend: anon they were either thrown down, men and all, by the soldiers of the town, having forks made for that purpose: or else they were in jeopardy to be drawn up ladders men and all, by reason of iron hooks that were thrown upon the ladders, taking such sure hold on them, that the clymbers were often times pulled up far from the ground, and hanged long by the rounds of the ladders. Thus continued the assault very long, and was very fierce and dangerous on both parts. Then had Scipio divided his host in three parts, to the intent one part should ever assault the town, while the other rested.  
Wherefore he commanded those, which were at the first assault, to withdraw to their tents, and rest them: and incontinent with other two parts of his fresh soldiers, he gave a new assault on two parts of the town: so that the defondours, being weary with the long sustaining the furst assault, and also sore afraid, as desperate, leaving the walls, withdrew them: whereupon the town was won, and great occision made of people of all kinds and ages.  
¶ When tidings of this noble act was brought to P. Scipio the capitianes, he greatly praised his brother, doing to him as much honour as he might. And after sent him to Rome, to bear news to the senate of their speed. with him also he sent Hanno the capitain of the Carthaginenses, & divers other noble prisoners, that were before by them taken.  
¶ Asdrubal the son of Gysgon: and Mago the son of Amilcar, desirous to redress their harms, and to recover their losses, gathered together of their friends in Spain, and of hired soldiers, an huge army, to the numbered of l M. footmen, and four M. v. C. horsemen: and came to the town of Silpia, where in the plain fields they pitched their camps.  
¶ P. Scipio, hearing of their great army, assembled all his men likewise: and to be more able to rencounter with his enemies, he sent silanus to Colchas, the king and ruler over xxviii. cities and towns: of whom he had iii M. footmen, and .v. C. horsemen. He h●dde in his army, when he came to Betula xlv M. of horsemen and footmen. Certain days after their meeting there were shyrmisshes and jousts between the horsemen and the light footmen of both the armies. At the last they both descended into the fields with all their powers in good order of battle. The middle wards kept the Romans on the one side, and the Carthaginenses and the africans on the other side: the wings of both the parties were of spaniardes and hired soldiers. Thus stood they ready to do battle, till it was night, without stroke striking: and even so they did certain days following: So that ever it was bruited in both armies, that the middle wards should be still of the Romans and Carthaginenses, where the greatest strength was, and where that most noble and expert men of war were: between whom also rested the cause and chief ground of the war. Scipio being advertised, that his enemies trusted and believed, that this order should be kept still in the battle: against the day, wherein he thought to fight, he changed all his order. first in the evening before, he commanded all his horsemen, before the dawning of the day, to eat some meat, and then to be armed, and every one of them to have his horse also made ready for the battle. Which his commandment they diligently accomplished. Then Scipio, so soon as the day appeared, caused all his horsemen, with light armour, to invade the station or camp of the Carthaginenses: and he with the rest of his hole host followed in good array, but otherwise ordered, then either his enemies or his own company looked for. For he put his Romans in the wings, and in the middle he put all strangers and hired soldiers. Asdrubal, hearing the great noise of the Roman horsemen, with the sudden rumour and fear of his own men, ran out of his tent. And when he perceived all the fields garnished with his enemies, he sent forth anon his horsemen against the roman horsemen: and soon after he himself with all his footmen came forth of his camp keeping the same ●rdre that he had dove certain days before, without changing any part thereof. The battle between the horsemen endured long, but when the host of footmen were within half a mile together: Scipio caused his horsemen to withdraw themselves, whom he divided then in two parts, and caused to stand behind the two wings, to be ever ready for their aid and secure. Now was his middle ward most of Spaniards: whom he commanded to march forwards, not fast, but a soft pace. Then sent he a messenger to silanus and Martius, who governed the left wing, charging them to make speed forwards on their parts, in like manner as they saw him do with the right wing, which he led himself: so that the wings might be fighting a good space before the middle wards should mete. In this order they went forwards, spreading their wings, and making a great bosom in the middle of their host. For the spaniards in the middle went a much softer pace than the wings: whereby the wings were all ready come to strokes, and fought a long space, before that the Africans and Carthaginenses (in whom rested the great strength of their enemies) were come to any stroke striking. Again, to bend to any part of the wings to help their fellows that fought, they durst not, lest they should open their battle to their enemies, which came directly upon them. By this means the wings were anon overcome, and driven into the middle ward: and no marvel. For the young and the hired soldiers of Spain were marched with the strong and old warriors of the Romans and the Latins, Again, Hasdrubal'S men were so suddenly taken in the morning, that they had no time to receive any sustenance before the battle. Wherefore when the day was somewhat spent, they waxed faint and feeble. And for that intent Scipio purposely tracted and prolonged the time, before the middle wards should meet: to the end the heat of the son towards the middle of the day, with the long standing in harness, and lack of meat and drink, should take from them both their strength and courage. Thus they being weary, and assailed both before with the middle ward, and also on the sides with the Roman wings, were constrained to recoil. Which they did a great while, keeping still good order in their withdrawing: for Asdrubal continually cried to them, and thereto exhorted them, saying: If they would by little & little withdraw them, they should soon get the mountains, which were at their backs: and then they should be sure out of the danger of their enemies. But at the last, seeing themselves overcome, and so many of their company slain on all parts: their fear overcame shame. Wherefore with great slaughter they fled to their camp. The Romans pursued them fast, and had taken their camp and tents, had not a vehement storm of rain suddenly come upon them, with such violence, that every man was glad to get him to his own tent and pavilion.  
¶ The Carthaginenses, although the night drew fast on them, being very sore wounded and wet with the rain (whereby they had necessary occasions of sleep & rest) yet were they so afraid, that they ceased not, still to strengthen and to fortify their camp with dyches and stones, which they gathered in all parts about them: trusting more to the strength thereof, then to their armour. Then many of the hired soldiers of the host of the Carthaginenses left Asdrubal, and came to Scipio. diverse strong towns also were delivered up to him: with all the garrisons, which were left in them. Wherefore Asdrubal, thinking himself more sure by fleinge, then by his abiding, secretly departed from thence in the night.  
¶ Scipio in the morning, being advertised of the departing of his enemies, sent his horsemen before: and he himself with his army suddenly followed them: The horsemen at length overtook them, and made so many skyrmyshes with them, that thereby they were stayed, till their hole army of footmen also over took them. Then was there great occuion made of them with small resistance. And Asdrubal with vii M. men with him, was fain to flee to the next high mountain, where they encamped themselves, and were safe from any danger or hurt, that could be done them. soon after he slipped from thence, and stolen to the sea, which was not far of: where he took shiping himself, with Mago, and a few with him, and went to the isles beyond the furthest part of Spain, called Gades, leaving the most part of his men behind him at their own adventure, to provide for themselves. part of them went to the Romans, part to such cities as were then remaining in the dominion of the Carthaginenses.  
¶ Scipio, after the driving away of Asdrubal and his company, willing utterly to expel all the Carthaginenses out of Spain: laid siege to Illiturgus: which after long travail he won with force, and caused his men to slay all that ever they found on live, man woman and child. And after they set the town on fire, and threw down the walls to the earth, that the place, which had been the chief receptacle of their enemies, might be clearly defaced, and the memory thereof abolished for ever. from thence he went toward Castulo, with his army. The capitain thereof, fearing the cruelty of the Romans: yielded the town to them, with the Carthaginenses also that were therein. Ascapa also a strong town was won by Martius, and brought in subjection, with all other towns cities and fortresses that the Carthaginenses before held. Thus were they clearly expelled out of Spain, the xiiii year after the wars first began, and the .v. year after that Scipio was appointed by the senate to be captain of the army, and was assigned to war in spain as his province.   

¶ M. Livius, and C. Nero the consuls, enter the city of Rome, in triumph. A praise of Hannibal's governing his army. Capi. lv.  
Now let us return to M. Livius the consul, that after the great victory had by him and his fellow Claudius Nero, against the other old Asdrubal, in the frontiers of Italy, as is before declared: He sent Q. Fabius Maximus to Rome, to the senators, advertifing them, that he thought the army, which L. Portius the praetor had there, was sufficient enough for the keeping of that province: So that (if they thought it best) he and his army might be well spared there. To whom the senators answered, that they wylled him to come himself to Rome with his army, and that Claudius Nero his fellow should also meet him the same time at Rome, leaving his host with good captains to keep the country still against Hannibal.  
¶ Upon this decree of the senate the consuls wrote letters either to other, and agreed, that like as they had with one good will and mind governed and defended the country, during the time of their office: even so now they should both at one time come into the city of Rome, although they came from divers parts. Wherefore it was agreed, that who so ever of them came first to the city of Preneste, should there tarry the coming of his fellow. According to the appointment, there they met both in one bay: and from thence they sent messengers to the city, desiring the senators to meet them in the house of Bellona the gods of war, the third day following. There were they received with a great multitude both of senators and of citizens with goodly salutations and great thanks for their politic governance of their rooms: by whose help and dexterity the common wealth was nobly preserved and advanced. Soon after they were brought into the senate: there according to the old custom of conquerors, they declared their noble acts, which they had achieved for the common wealth of the city of Rome: and for the same desired, first that honour might be given to the immortal gods: and then that they might with triumph entre the city. Which their request was granted them. As touching the manner of their entering in triumph, it was appointed, that they should not come in severally but together, as they vainquished their enemies together. They agreed also between themselves, that because the victory was had in the province of M. Livius, & also because livius army was come to Rome with him, where Nero his host could in no wise be brought thither: Therefore should Livius ride in a chariot, and his soldiers in order follow him. Nero should ride by him on horseback without any of his soldiers to follow him. Claudius was contented to give the honour to his fellow: by which his gentleness he won much the more honour & praise. For every man said of him, that he on horseback in vi days had ridden the length of all Italy, and had fought with Asdrubal in the borders of France, what time Hannibal judged him to be in Apulia. So that his only name was able to keep Hannibal lurking in his camp, and his only coming was the cause of the victory against Asdrubal. Wherefore (said they) ride the one consul never so high in his chariot, yet the other consul, that road but on horseback, was worthy of the very triumph. ye although Nero did go but on his foot: yet was he worthy of glory and fame perpetual. With these praises they followed Nero into the capitoly or palace in Rome. Where they presented much money of their gain, and that was put into the treasury. On the morrow both the consuls, and also the horsemen, praised moche L. Veturius, and Q. Cecilius: desiring that they might, for the next year following, be chosen consuls. Which at the next election was done, and both they appointed with ii consuls armies, to keep war against Hannibal.  
¶ After all things were put in good order, they departed from the city, and went into the country of the Lucanes, and in short time they had brought all that country into subjection. With Hannibal there was little done. For he offered not himself to give battle, he was so discouraged with the loss of his brother, his friends and his soldiers. On the other part, the consuls thought it not best to provoke him to battle: se●s they found in him no stirring. So moche they feared and esteemed the valour of that noble capitain: to whom this praise is given, That no man could judge in him, whether he were more to be commended in time of prosperity, or in time of adversity. For who would not wonder to see, that he maintained the war so far from his country by the full space of thirteen years in the land of his enemies, having his army not of his own city or country, but gathered together of many nations, which lived not under one manner of law, neither had one custom or language, but much different in apparel, armour, customs, ceremonies, ye they had all several God's. Yet did he so govern them all, and knit them together all in such amity, that no man could judge or know of any dissension between them, or insurrection against their capitains, although diverse times he lacked to pay them their wages, and also victuals for their sustenance: by the lack whereof, in other wars much inconvenience hath ensued. Again, after the death of Asdrubal, and his army, in whom was all his trust, when all Italy was taken from him, save only the country or corner of the Brutians: Who would not wonder to see no rebellion amongst his own men. considering that victuals had they not, but only from that little angle of the Brutians, which if it had been wholly tilled and sowed, had not been able to sustain so great an army. Never the less, a great part thereof was untilled, part for fear of the Romans, and their friends, partly for that the most part of the young men of the country were taken to the wars, which were before wont to till and man●re the ground for husbandry. These things (I say) conferred together, it will make all men to muse, how he could so quietly govern his great host, and to praise greatly his wise conduct therein.   

¶ Scipio and Asdrubal arrive both in one day in Africa, and be lodged both together in the palace of king Syphax. Cap. lvi.  
AFter the departing of P. Scipio to Tarracon, the Carthaginenses being driven out of Spain, Massanissa, seeing the great fall of his friends the Carthaginenses, secretly had communication with silanus, and was won to be a sure friend to the romans. whereupon to have his friends in Africa the more obedient and ready to him in all his necessities, he appointed to sail over in to his country, there to make himself as strong as might be, for the aid and secure of the Romans when need required. And silanus soon after returned to Scipio to Tarracon.  
¶ Than P. Scipio, willing to certify the senate of his great victory and happy chances, sent his brother L. Scipio to Rome, as is before rehearsed, who led with him many noble men prisoners, whom he had before taken in the wars: whereupon he was meruaylousely honoured and praised of all men. Yet he alone, that had deserved all the said honour, esteemed all his feats done in Spain, to be nothing in comparison of those things which he had conceived in his mind. He looked for the conquest of great Carthage and Africa, as the end of his war, and the consummation of his honour and glory. Wherefore, to work in time all things, that afterwards should serve for his purpose, he determined to win unto him the hearts of princes, which were borderers unto that country. And first he minded to attempt king Syphax.  
¶ This Syphax was king of a people in Africa, called Masesuli, adjoining to the Moors, and lying on the other side of the sea Mediterrane, over against new Carthage in Spain, who at that time was a great friend to the Carthaginenses: To him he sent C. Lelius, with a goodly present: wherewith the king was very glad and well pleased. And considering in his mind the good fortune, which the Romans had in all parts, and saying the power of his old friends the Carthaginenses to be so greatly decayed, that in Italy they had now little to do, and in Spain nothing: He agreed with Lelius, to become a friend to the Romans. But he said, he would no further proceed to the confirmation of the amity between them, till he might personally speak with Scipio, the chief capitain of the Romans. whereupon Lelius taking assurance of him, for the safe going and coming of his captain, returned to Scipio. And declared unto him, how he had sped, as is before declared. Scipio indging his friendship to be a great help and furtherance to his purpose, touching his desirous affairs in Africa, both for his great strength and richesse, and also for that his country was adjoining to Carthage, directly over against Spain, leaving Lucius Martius at Tarracon, and silanus at new Carthage, with a power sufficient for the defence of Spain: he with Lelius in two galeys or rowbarges of five oores a piece, passed over into Africa.  
¶ Now it happened, that even the same time Asdrubal, who of late had been driven out of Spain, was newly arrived in the same haven, with seven galeys, and casting their anchors, drew as near the shore as they could. Asdrubal, perceiving the other two galeys or rowbarges of Scipios, coming towards the same haven: knew full well, they were the vessels of his enemies. Wherefore not doubting, but that they being so few in numbered, might easily be oppressed and vanquys●hed, before they should get the haven: he commanded his folks to weigh up the anchors, and to make them ready to set forth with all speed. But the other, having good wind to their furtherance, entered the haven, before the galeys of Asdrubal might get out, such ruffelinge noise and little shift was made by his men. Wherefore when the Romans had once gotten the kings haven: no man durst be so bold to meddle with them. Thus went the two capyteynes on land: first Asdrubal, and then Scipio with Lelius, and both went to the kings palace: whose coming did unto Syphax great honour. For it was never before seen, that the governors of the ii most noble signories, that were in those days in all the world, came ever to his palace upon one day, to desire his amity and peace. The king right gently received them both, and since their chances were to meet both at one time in his house: he did what he might, to bring them both to communication, trusting thereby to appease all strife and discord for any matter that had been between them. But that Scipio refused to do, affirming, that there was no private matter of displeasure between him and Asdrubal, which by communication or hearing of friends, needed to be determined. Neither was there any thing touching the common wealth of his country, wherein he might travail or entreat, unless it were by special authority or commandment of the whole senate. Than the king made great instance to Scipio, seeing they were both his guests at ones, that he would be contented to be so ordered, that he might not have cause to expelle any of them both from his table. Scipio at the kings request was not only contented to sit with Asdrubal at one table, but also, for the kings pleasure, he lay in the same bed that he did. For Scipio was naturally of such dexterity, and so conformable to reason, that thereby he not only wan the heart of Syphax: but also he brought his most mortal enemy Asdrubal in more admiration of him, after he had seen his conversation, than ever he did before, for any act that ever he did. Whereupon he began than to conjecture and to judge, that Syphax, with all his might was become friend to the Romans. Such policy he deemed Scipio to have in winning the hearts of men. And than he began to dyvise, that it was necessary for the Carthaginenses, to consult among themselves, not how Spain was lost, and might be recovered: but rather how they might keep their dominion in Africa. specially he was moved thus to be in doubt, for that he judged, that so great a capitain of the Romans, would not leave the country, that he lately had conquered, to wander abroad in a strange dominion, only with two galeys, leaving behind him his great power, and committing him unto the danger of an unknown king: but only upon some trust that he had thereby to win Africa.  
¶ Scipio concludinge a peace and amity with the king, departed from him, leaving Asdrubal wrapped in manifold troubles. And within four days after, sustaining many storms on the seas, he arrived in safeguard at new Carthage.   

¶ Massanissa speaketh secretly with Scipio, and entereth in league with the Romans: Mago saileth into Italy, to join with Hannibal. Cap. lvii.  
IT is before declared, how silanus had secret communication with Massanissa, and had won him to be friend to the Romans: but the conclusion of this communication was deferred, till Massanissa might speak with Scipio personally, for the more sure and faithful assurance of their alliance. Which caused P. Scipio to enterprise that long painful journey, to come near to the sea side, to meet him. Of whose approaching Massanissa, being in the isle called the Gades, was advertised by L. Martius: He feigned to Mago, that his horses were lost and spilled, for that they were so long kept within the isle, without any exercise: and his men also were impaired through idleness, not putting themselves in ure to do any feats of arms. Furthermore he said, their long lying in that island caused dearth and scarcity of all things. Wherefore he desired licence of him, that he might, with his horsemen pass over in to Spain, there to spoil and waste the country near to the sea side.  
¶ By this persuasion he obtained licence, and came over in to Spain. At his first arryvaile, he sent three noble men of Numidie to Scipio, whereof he willed him to retain with him two of them, as pledges: And to send again the third of them, to ascertain him of the time and place of their meeting: by whose conduct he might be brought to the place appointed. When the day came, they met together, with a small numbered in their company: where Massanissa, at the first sight, although before he had a great admiration of Scipio, through the noble fame of his acts: yet upon the sight of him and his presence, he had him in moche more veneration. For besides that of nature he was endowed with goodly and large stature: wherein he showed a marvelous magnificence: yet the same was set forth the more by reason of his goodly long hear, and his comely apparel, after a manly and warlike fashion. He was also of a middle age, at his full strength, and was become so beautiful after a sickness, of which he was late recovered: that his lusty youth seemed renewed: whereby he was more pleasant to behold. At their first meeting, Massanissa half astonished, gave him humble thanks for his goodness showed, in sending home his brother's son: whom he before had as prisoner. From which time (he said) he ceased not to seek occasion of his friendship and amity, for the which, now that he had obtained it, he gave thanks to the gods. trusting that he would so apply himself in his affairs and the Romans causes, that their common wealth was never more advanced by one man, being a stranger unto them. Which his hearty benevolence and good will that he bore to them, he could never before (although he would) have showed to him and to them in Spain, being to him a strange, and an unknown country. But in case the Romans would send Scipio as their captain into Africa, where he was bred and brought up, he doubted not, there to do them such high service, that the honour of Carthage should no long while endure.  
¶ Scipio gladly beheld him, and also heard him: knowing surely, that he was the chief of all the horsemen in the army of his enemies, and a lusty young man, of a nobleherte and courage. Wherefore after they had entreated of their business, giving faith the one to the other, of faithful love and amity, they departed: Scipio to Tarracon, and Massanissa to the i'll of Gades. but because it might appear to Mago, that he had done some feat in Spain: Scipio suffered him to spoil certain goods and grounds on the sea cost, and to take the pray with him.  
¶ Mago being desperate of any good speed to be had in Spain, was in mind to sail into Africa, when suddenly letters came to him from Carthage, commanding him with his navy of ships, that he had at the Gades, that he should sail over into Italy. Where hyringe as much people as he might, of frenchmen, and Liguriens, he should with all speed join himself with Annibal. And for that purpose great sums of money were sent him from Carthage. Besides that he levied and exacted as much money as he could of the Gaditanes, compelling every man to bring in his money. Besides this he spoiled the temples. With all this riches he arrived at the i'll of Minorque, where he gathered together ii M. young men, whom in the beginning of summer he took with him, and failed over into Italy with xxx great ships of war, and many other ships laden with provision. He had in his host at that time xii M. footmen, and two. M. horsemen. With this numbered he suddenly arrived at Geene, which town he took with small resistance, being unprovided of men of war. From thence he sailed along the costs of Liguria, next to the mountains called Alps, and hearing, that a people of that country, called Ingawni, held war with certain mountanoys called Epanterii: he landed there, and making a league or amity with the jagawnes, he granted them to invade the mountanoys with certain of his people. The rest he sent to Carthage, to defend the costs of the sea there. For it was bruited abroad, that Scipio was minded to land his navy in Africa.  
¶ He had no long season tarried there, but his army still increased. For the frenchmen daily resorted unto him, hearing the fame and glory of his name. Of his arrival in Liguria about Geene, Sp. Lucretius sent letters to Rome to the senate, advertising them, that where Asdrubal was about ii years paste slain with his army in the frontiers of Italy, to the great comfort of the city, that great joy was but in vain, and passed like a shadow, unless they provided now speedy remedy. For a new army was come with Mago from Carthage, to begin a new war like the other: only the capitain thereof was changed. These news moved much the senators. Wherefore they sent letters to M. Livius, than proconsul, commanding him to bring his host from Hetruria to Arminius. Cn. Servilius the praetor had also commandment, to bring thither from Rome two new legions. Thus lay both the hosts of Romans, and the army of the Carthaginenses, with their friends, the one not far from the other, a long season, without any thing doing worthy of memory.   

¶ Scipio saileth into Italy, cometh to Rome, and is treat one of the consulies, he despreth to have licence, to sail into Africa with an army. Cap. lviii.  
soon after the departing of Mago from the i'll of Gades, the Gaditanes yielded themselves to the Romans. P. Scipio committing the rule and governance of his army to L. Lentulus, & L. Manlius, taking with him ten ships, with men sufficient, went himself to Rome. Against whose coming the counsel sat without the city in the house of Bellona. There he soberly declared to the senators, what things he had done in Spain: How often he had fought with banners displayed against his enemies: how many cities he had taken from them by strength: what people he had brought into their obeisance: he showed also that he had fought with four sundry captains noble men, and vanquished them and their armies, which before were never vanquished: So that now there was no Carthaginenses left in Spain. But for all his noble acts, he was not admitted to enter the city with triumph, because he had never borne office in the city. After the counsel arose, he entered the city, where he presented and brought into the treasury great plenty of money and riches of his gains and prays. Soon after the time came of choosing of consuls, at which day P. Cornelius Scipio was chosen consul, and P. Licinius Crassus his fellow for that year. Great was the resort that came to behold Scipio where so ever he went. The commons had conceived in their minds an opinion of him, that he was the man, appointed by the gods to finish the wars in Italy, as he had before delivered Spain from the Carthaginenses. Which wars in Italy ended, they appointed in their own hearts, and also they spoke it openly, that he should have Africa, appointed as his province. When the provinces were allotted, he was appointed to Sicilia, and L. Crassus to the Brutians against Hannibal. The fame among the commons ran still, that Scipio should have Africa to his province. And he ever desirous of great glory, said: that he was not only chosen Consul, to maintain the war, but to finish and to make an end thereof. Which in no wise might be achieved, whiles he might pass with his army into Africa. Which his desire in case the senators would not grant, he would refer it to the voice of the communes.   

¶ An oration made by Q. Fabius Maximus, dissuading Scipio from his desired journey into Africa, and willing him to maintain the wars against Hannibal in Italy. Cap. lix.  
OF this purpose of Scipio the senators consulted together, and among other, they desired Q. Fabius Maximus to declare his opinion. He answered, making an oration in manner and form following.  
¶ I am well assured, father's conscript, that if I descent and agree not to this hasty passage into Africa, two things will be judged and spoken of me. One is, a slowness or a slack tracting of my matter, which naturally is given me, and that youngmen call fearfulness or sloth. And it grieveth me little, though they have such opinion in me, sens other men's councils heretofore have appeared glorious at the first face: but at length my counsel hath ever proved best and most for the common wealth. The second thing is, that I should for evil will go about to hinder the glory of this valiant consul, that daily groweth and increaseth. from which suspicion, if neither my fashion of living and manners, nor the office of dictator, which I have borne, nor the room of a consul, which I have five times enjoyed: neither the great glory, that I have won both in the time of peace and war, will deliver and purge me: let mine age at the least deliver me therefrom For what indifferent contention can be between me and him that in years may not match my son? When I was dictator, the master of the horses laboured so to the senate, that he was made equal with me in authority and rule: which thing never was seen before. yet never man heard me, either privyly or openly refuse their order therein. For I had leaver to get by my deeds than by my words, that he which was by other men's judgement compared with me, should shortly after by his own confession give me the preferrment. Moche less now, when I have so oft borne these honourable offices, do I intend to strive with this flourishing young man. I letted Hannibal of his victory, to the intent he might now be vanquished of you that be lusty and strong. Reason would, Pub. Cornelius, that ye should be contented (since I die dde never set more by mine own fame & honour, or the fame of the people, than I did by the common wealth) although I do not now prefer your honour and laudis before the common wealth. Never the less in case there were no war in Italy, or else such an enemy, by whose vanquyshing small honour were to be gotten: than he that would keep the in Italy (although the common wealth were thereby somewhat anaunced) might seem to go about to take thy glory from the. But sens Hannibal is our enemy, who hath with his host these xiiii years vexed Italy: shouldest thou P. Cornelius, think the to lose honour, if by thy prowess, being consul, thou canst expelle and drive him out of this country, who hath been the cause of so many of our men's slaughter, and of our so great destruction? Whereby as Luctatius bore away the honourable title of fynyshing the first war with the Carthaginenses: even so now thou mayst obtain the praise of fynyshing this war. unless thou dost think, that Amilcar than capitain, was to be preferred before Hannibal: or that war before this: or that victory to be more noble and glorious, than this shall be to thee, if it be thy chance (being consul) to overcome? Thinkest thou it more honour, to deliver Spain from our enemies than to deliver Italy? Hannibal is no such man, but that who so ever will choose to war in an other place, must be reckoned rather to fear him, than to despise him. Make the ready therefore, and think not to fetch a compass about the bush, to go before in to Africa, to the intent Hannibal should follow thee: but go the next way to work, and where so ever Hannibal be, thither direct thy war. Nature giveth, that a man should first defend his own country: or he invade or assail an other land. Let there first be peace in Italy, before there be war in Africa. And let fear be first expelled from us, or it be driven upon other. If thou canst by thy governance do both, first overcome Hannibal here: and then after assail Carthage. Our treasury is not able to find ii great armies: one here, and an other in Africa. And if it were sufficient to find P. Licinius one host in Italy, and P. Scipio an other also in Africa: what if it should chance (as god forbid, yet such haps have happened and may do again) that Hannibal did overcome Licinius, and were coming towards Rome: Might we call the from Africa, as we did call Quintus Fuluius from Capua to our succours? Ye, and in Africa also the fortune of war is doubtful and variable. Let thine own house or family be to the a warning. Were not thy father and thine uncle slain, with their hosts, and all within thirty days space? Yet had they before among strange nations, both by sea and by land, gotten great renown to the city of Rome and all their posterity. The day would fail me, or I made an end, if I should reaken up the names of kings and capyteynes, which rashly have invaded the lands of their enemies, to the utter undooing of them and their armies. The Athenienses, leaving war at home, sent a noble youngman capyteyne, with an huge navy into Sicilia, where being overthrown in one battle, they had such loss, that their common wealth was clean subverted for ever. This outward example is to ancient. Let the same A●frica, and the loss of our own consul M. Attilius, there taken by the Carthaginenses, and their friends, be to us a document. In comparison of Africa, Publius Scipio, the countries of Spain be but a play or a game. The estates of them be nothing like. For at thy passing into Spain thou dyddeste sail by the costs of italy and France, and didst arrive with thy navy in the city of our friends. Where setting thy men on land, thou by sure ways were conveyed to Tarracon, the friends also of the Romans. from Tarracon, thou camest to the river of Iberus, where thou foundeste that noble capitain L. Martius, & many fierce Roman soldiers, left of the armies of thy father and thine uncle. And soon after new Carthage was won: because none of the iii hosts of the Carthagynenses, came to the succour and defence of the city and their fellows. These things I cannot so greatly praise: but touching the wars in Africa, they shall be found far unlike. For there shalt thou find no haven open for our army and navy, no ground peaceable, no city of our fryendeshyppe, no king our friend. Also no place meet for us, either to abide upon, or to go forwards on. Wherefore wheresoever thou look, thou shalt see all full of thine enemies. wilt thou believe Syphax and the Numidians? Let it suffice thee, that thou didst ones believe him. foolish hardiness doth never prosper: Deceit doth so order itself in small things, that faith may be given to it: to the intent in great things he may deceive with great advantage. Thy father and uncle were not oppressed by the armour of their enemies: till they were first deceived by their own fellows and false friends the Celtiberiens. Ye thyself were never in so great jeopardy through Mago and Asdrubal capiteines of thine enemies, as thou were in by Indibilis and Mandonius, princes of Spain: whom thou didst take to be thy very friends. Thine own Roman soldiers have of late rebelled against thee: and wilt thou now trust the Numydians? Both Syphax and Massanissa, touching the dominion or rule in Africa, will prefer themselves before the Carthaginenses: yet will they gladlier suffer the Carthaginenses to bear rule there, than any stranger. Now is there contention & debate between them: because they be not frayed with any foreign power: but so soon as the Roman army shall appear before them, they will strait join themselves together. As in a town where fire is in a house, people will assemble together to the quenching thereof, for fear of a common hurt or danger. ye shall see the Carthaginenses defend their walls of their town and country, their temples, their own houses, with their wives and young children, of an other sort than they defended Spain. And what if the Carthaginenses, making peace with the kings that be their neighbours, trusting to the strength of their towns, & perceiving Italy to be made bare of men of war by thy coming thither with such a power, will send a new army from Africa into Italy, or will command Mago, who is already come to the costs of the Liguriens, to join with Hannibal with all his power: Then shall we be in the same case, wherein we were when Asdrubal passed the mountains, and was descended into Italy. The more stronger and valiant Capytaine that thou art, the moor ought we and all Italy to rejoice, and to keep the still among us. Thou canst not deny thyself, but that where Hannibal is, there is the head and strength of all this war. And thou sayest, that thy going into Africa shall be to draw Hannibal thither, so that whether it be here or there, with Ann●bal thou must chiefly have to do. And then I pray the answer me, Shalt thou be more sure in Africa, being there alone, or here in italy, having the other consul thy fellow and his host joined with thee? And if thou wilt seek the experience thereof, let Claudius and Livius, the late consuls, be to the an example and a learning. Again, whether shall Hannibal be stronger in the little angle of the Brutiens, whereunto he is driven with his hole host, or when he shall come to Carthago, having all his friends of Africa about him? What a devise is this, to chose rather to fight and to try with thine enemy, where thy power shall be smaller by the half, and thine enemies power doubled: then to fight in a place, where thou shalt have two armies against his one? ye and that one worn and wearied with long and grievous war. consider thyself, how moche this thy counsel varieth from the mind of thy father, he being fully appointed to Spain, as his province, fearing the coming of Hannibal into Italy, to the intent to meet him at his descending from the mountains, left his own province, and came into Italy. But now thou, when Annibal is all ready in Italy, intendest to leave Italy: Not for that it is for the common wealth so to do, but thereby to purchase the a noble and glorious name. But O ye noble father's conscript, I do think, that P. Corn. Scipio was not made consul for his own private wealth or pleasure, but for the common wealth, and the safeguard of all us. Neither were the armies of men of war appointed to him, to th'intent, be like a prince might sail with them into what part of the world he will. But they were assigned to him, and to all other his predecessors, for the safeguard and defence of this city and of Italy.  
¶ With this oration of Fabius, being a man of great authority wisdom experience and fame, the more part of the ancient senators were persuaded: and more men allowed the sober counsel of the old man, than the fierce mind of Scipio the yongemanne. Wherefore Scipio made unto him this answer.   

¶ The answer of P. Cornelius Scipio, to the oration of Q. Fabius Maximus: And of his sailing into Sicilia with his army. Cap. lx.  
QVintus Fabius in the beginning of his oration (father's conscript) said, that in the declaration of his opinion he might be suspected to speak of evil will and envy: but it is not I that do accuse so great & so noble a man thereof: Although I do not perceive the same suspicion as yet to be by him sufficiently avoided, whether the default thereof be in the deformity of his oration, or for lack of good matter, I know not. But this I well perceive, that to avoid the crime or suspicion of envy, he hath so extolled his own honour, with the fame of his noble acts, as though it should not become him, or stand with his honour, to contend with me, being myself but a child, under the age of his son. Considering the great offices that he hath borne in the city, whereby as it seemeth, his meaning is, that the desire of glory should be measured only, by the length of the life of man, and not extend to be had in perpetual memory with our posterity. But this I know well, that every noble heart hath a covetous desire to be equivalent in famous virtue, not only with the age present, but also with the people of all ages, both past and yet to come. And (unless I would dissemble) truly Q. Fabius, my will is not only to be equal unto the in renown, but also to pass the in praises, if I may attain thereunto. Let neither of us both think, that none that shall come after us, shall be like unto us. For that were a desire of great hurt and hindrance, both of our posterity, and also of the common wealth, and generally of all mankind. Furthermore, Fabius hath remembered the jeopardies and perils, that I should enter into, by my going into Africa, as though he were careful both for me and mine army. I marvel greatly, from whence this loving care and thought for me is so suddenly sprung. For when my father and mine uncle were both slain, and both their armies almost destroyed, slain, and clean lost, the africans overrounning the country with four several hosts and capytaines: than would no man offer himself to be a captain of the Romans in Spain, but only I. Atwhychetyme, when the people of the city made me governor, being than but xxiiii years old, there was no man found, which would remember my tender age: neither the power of our enemies, the dangerousness of battle, nor yet the late death and destruction of my friends in Spain. Is there now in Africa any greater armies or better captains, than were than in Spain? Was mine age at that time more meet for the war, than it is now? or is it greater matter to fight with our enemies of Africa in spain, than it is in Africa? As it is now easy to advance myself of iiii. armies of Carthage, by me destroyed: after so many cities taken by force, after so many princes and wild nations subdued, and all Spain won unto the ocean sea, so that none appearance is left there of any war: Likewise after my victorious return from Africa, it shallbe as easy to set forth the overcominge of all things, which now be laid very terrible and dangerdus: only to the intent to keep me still at home. Fabius deemeth, that I shall have no havens or ports open for me to enter. He also remembreth the taking of M. Attilius Regulus in Africa: as though M. Attilius had his fall at his first arrival into that country. Where of truth he had havens open and enter at his pleasure, ye by the space of an hole year he did many noble acts there: Whom the Carthaginenses were never able of their own power to subdue, till the second year after his coming, and many of his host slain. They sent for Xantippus, captain of the Lacedæmonians, with his power: by whom he was at length overcome and taken in battle. This example can nothing fear me. For why should I more fear to sail into Africa because of the taking of M. Attilius, than I was afraid to sail into Spain after the death of both the Scipions? And I trust Xantippus the Lacedemonien was not born to be more fortunate to the Carthaginenses, than I shallbe to the romans and to mine own country. The tale must be recited of the Athenienses, how fondly leaving war at home, they entered into Africa: But why dost thou not rehearse the history of Agathocles, king of the Syracusanes? Who when his country of Sicilia had been long troubled with war by the Carthaginenses, he with his host failed over into Africa: whereby he delivered his own country from war, and turned all to the defence of him & his power in Africa. But to show the commodity of invading of a foreign country, thereby to avoid jeopardies at home: what better example can any man rehearse, then of this Hannibal? There is great difference between the sight of bourning and spoiling of other men's countries: and the sight of the destruction of thine own cities and regions. There is more courage in a man, that offrethe battle, then in him that defendeth. Little thought Hannibal at his first coming to italy, that so many cities and people would have yielded them unto him as did after the battle at Cannas: much less cause shall the Carthaginenses have of trust or hoop in Africa, considering their untruths to their neighbours, & their own proud and cruel dominion over their subjects. We being forsaken of our neighbours, have still endured all dangers by our own power and strength. The Carthaginenses have no great strength of their own. Their power is in hired soldiers of Africa and Numidia, whose light wits cause light faith, when they see cause of change. If ye suffer me to departed hence, with speed, ye shall shortly hear of my passage thither, and of the war wherewith I shall vex them. And then shall ye see Hannibal make speed to depart from this country: and ye shall hear shortly of the siege of Carthage: not doubting, but that ye shall receive gladder tidings from Africa, then ever ye had fro me out of Spain. These hopes I do conceive. first of the fortune of this city and people of Rome. Secondly, through the trust of the gods, which are witnesses of the truce broken by them. thirdly, that occasion offered by Syphax and Massanissa, to whose promise and faith I will so trust, that I will also be well aware of their falsehood and dysceipte. And it is the part of a man and a good capyteyne, not to shrink and forsake fortune, when it is offered. I know well Quintus Fabius, that I shall find Hannibal my match: but I will rather draw him, than he shall retire me. I will cause him to fight with me in his own country. And Carthage shall rather be a pray and a reward of our victory: then the country and castles of the Brutians, which are almost destroyed already. Now when ye say, italy shallbe in danger by my departing hens, I pray you, may not P. Licinius the consul (whiles I am saylynge thither) stay with his host Hannibal, that is now of small power: aswell as thou Q. Fabius, didst slay him, when he as a conqueror overran all Italy? It shall be a great honour to the romans, and an eternal same among kings and strange nations, that we have the courage not only to defend Italy, but also to enter & make war in Africa. What shame shall it be when it shall be said, that Hannibal enterprised an act, that no Roman capiteyn ever durst enterprise? When contention was between us and the Carthaginenses for Sicilia, our navies and armies oftentimes invaded Africa: How when contention is for Italy between us, Africa remaineth quiet and in peace. But now let Italy take rest, & be in peace, which of long time hath been vexed, and let Africa an other season suffer bourning spoiling and wasting. And let the puissant Roman army approach the walls of Carthage: rather than we should with bulwarks and fortifycations defend our enemies from our own walls. Let Africa be from henseforthe the place of war. Let fear, flying, sleing, wasting of fields and other dystructions, belonging to war, be now turned thither, which by the space of xiiii years hath invaded our country.  
¶ After this answer of Scipio, great strife and altercation was in the senate house. At the last it was decreed, that Sicipo, with thirty ships should go into Sicilia, and from thence at his pleasure, if he thought it most convenient for the common wealth, to sail over into Africa: the other consul to keep war in the country of the Brutians against Hannibal. Besides these ships, and the Roman legions, which were appointed to Scipio, many cities and countries' adjoining to Rome, willingly aided him with ships, with seven. thousand soldiers, and all things necessary, of their own costs and charges. With which numbered he arrived in Sicilia, and there divided them into companies, appointing to every company an hundred men. Among all which number, he chose out three hundred of the most valiant and actife young men, that were without armour: whom he kept ever about him. But they knew not to what purpose he mente it. And on a day he chose and named iii C of the most noble and richest young gentlemen of all Sicilia, whom he said, should sail with him into Africa: assygninge them a day, at which they should appear before him with their horse and armour. This commandment troubled them sore, and to be so far from home with the labours by land and by sea, seemed very painful, not only to them, but also to their friends and kinsfolks. At the day appointed for their return, they came all before him, bringing with them horses harness and allthings necessary. Then said Scipio: It is showed me, that certain of you, men of arms of Sicilia, grudge sore to go inthis journey with me: Wherefore if there be any of you here, of that mind, I pray you speak now, and I will gladly hear you. For I had moche leaver, that ye uttered it now betimes: then that ye should against your hearts go forth, and become unprofitable soldiers to me and to the common wealth. Whereunto one of the iii C. answered: Truly sir, if it were in my choice and election, what I should do, I would not go forth in the wars. Well, said Scipio: Sense ye have plainly declared your mind without dissimulation, I will appoint one in your place, to whom ye shall deliver your horse, harness, and other necessary instruments of war, whom ye shall take home with you to your house, and there teach instruct and exercise him in feats of war, till I send for him again. Of this bargain the young gentleman was very joyful, and delivering him all his appareyll for the war, he took him home with him. When the rest of the three hundred men of arms of Sicilia, perceived their companion by this mean dismissed from the war, with the good love and favour of the capitain: every one of them also began to make his excuse, and desired to have Scipio to appoint other in their rooms. Which he gladdelye did, and by this mean he horsed, harnessed, and instructed the three hundred willing Romans, that were unarmed, with the horses and harness of the knights of Sicilia, without any charge of the stock of the city of Rome: Which proved after valiant men of arms, and did many noble acts for the advancement of the common wealth. Than Scipio searched out such soldiers as warred under Marcellus the consul, at the winning of Syracuse, whom he chose chief: for that he judged them to be expert in assaulting and scaling of towns and castles. For even than he imagined the winning of great Carthage. soon after he set men a work to make ships with speed, and to amend and to repair his old ships. Which done he sent C. Lelius, with a good numbered of men into Africa, to spoil rob and waste the sea costs: where he landed in the night. And in the dawning of the day, setting his men in good order, he spoiled the fields, destroyed and slew many of the Africans: which looked little for any such sudden invasion, they had so long continued in pleasure and ease. The fame of the destruction came anon to Carthage: the messengers noised abroad, that Scipio was arrived. For they had heard before, that he was already come into Sicilia: and they were so suddenly taken, that for fear they could tell the certainty of nothing, neither of the numbered of the Romans, nor of their ships: But fear caused them to make moche more thereof than it was in deed. The citizens of Carthage were then in a marvelous fear and pensiveness, beholding the sudden change of fortune, that of late had so advanced them, that their army lay before the gates of Rome: and their capytaines had almost subdued all Italy: Now contrary wise, they looked for none other, but the spoiling of their country, and the besieging of Carthage by the Romans. When they considered their help, they found their citizens, and men of their own country about them, weak and nothing meet for the war. All their strength was in hired soldiers from other parts of Africa: and they were wavering people, untrue and unsteadfast. They also reckoned Syphax to be turned from them by the secret communication, that Scipio had with him: and Massanissa was apparently become their enemy. Of Mago they had no tidings of his removing from Gone, and going into Italy to join his host with Annibals' host: and the fame, and also the strength of Hannibal was waxed faint.  
¶ When they had all hole considered their woeful state and condition: then began the senators to counsel and provide for help in their present necessity. They mustered their men, both in the city & without. They hired many soldiers Africans. They victualed their city: they amended their ships, they provided harness and all other things needful.  
¶ When they were thus busy, true tidings came, that it was not the captain Scipio, that was arrived: it was Lelius, that with certain ships and men was come to rob and spoil the country only. And that the great rest of the army was yet in Sicilia. With these news they were somewhat comforted: and then they devised to send ambassadors to Syphax, and to other princes about them, for a sure alliance and friendship. They sent also to Philip king of Macedonia, promising him great sums of money, to invade either Italy or Sicilia with a great host. Into Italy also were messengers sent, to cause the captains Annibal & Mago to stay Scipio in Italy. To Mago was sent xxv long ships vi M. footmen viii C. horsemen, and vii elephants, with great plenty of money, to hire more men in those parties, willing him with all his strength to remove towards the city of Rome, and join his host with Annibals. This preparation made the Carthaginenses.  
¶ When the ships of Carthage were arrived at Gone, they found there Mago with his army and navy of ships: who knowing the mind of the Carthaginenses, called before him a great numbered of frenchmen and Liguriens, unto whom he showed, that he was sent into those parties to purchase them liberty, and deliver them from bondage, wherein they had long been holden. He declared also to them, how M. Livius, and Sp. Lucretius lay with their two Roman armies not far from them. The one in Hetruria, the other in France. Whose powers to resist, he needed to have a great assemble of people. Then the frenchmen answered, that their hearts & minds were wholly to serve him therein. But they said, there was an host of Romans all ready in their country: which if they did perceive, that Mago were aided by them, they would incontinent waist and destroy their country. Wherefore they desired, that the Liguriens might help him: who were nothing so near danger, and they would privily help him with victuals and all things necessary, to the best of their power. Whereunto the Liguriens agreed, and desired two months space, to assemble and take musters of their best soldiers.  
¶ Marcus Livius, hearing that Mago gathered together so great a numbered of people: he removed with his host in to France, and joined himself to Sp. Lucretius, lying ever in await to meet with Mago, so soon as he removing from the Liguriens would offer to enter into italy, and take his journey towards Rome. But in case Mago would rest in the angle of the mountains without further proceeding: then they like wise would abide about Arminius, ever ready for the defence of Italy.   

¶ The complaint of the Lortenses to the senators of the cruel governance of D. Pleminius. Cap. lxi.  
MAssanissa hearing of the arrival of a Roman army in Africa, with a small numbered of horsemen came to Lelius, to whom he complained moche of the slowenes of Scipio, that he had not all that time been in Africa with his great power: considering the low ebb that the Carthaginenses were brought unto, and also saying that Syphax was now busied with war with the princes adjoining unto him. Whom (he said) he knew surely, after that he had brought his own purpose to good effect, and had leiser to settle all his own business, that then he would observe no promise or bond, that he had before made to the Romans. So little good faith he knew to be in him. Wherefore he desired Lelius, to move and stir Scipio, to make hast thither, and he would not fail (although he were driven out of his own realm) to meet with him soon after his landing, with a good numbered both of horsemen and of footmen.  
¶ On the morrow after Lelius departed, with his ships loaded with their prey & landed in Sicilia: where he found Scipio, to whom he declared the mind and message of Massanissa. Whereupon he had shortly set forwards into Africa, had he not heard comfort of the winning of Locres, a city in the uttermost part of Italy, that then was holden by the Carthaginenses. Which city in short time he obtained, partly by treason of certain carpenters, that wrought in the castle, partly by the favour of the citizens thereof. Who being grievously oppressed by Amylcar the captain, and other Carthaginenses of the garrison, that ceased not to use all kinds of oppression over them: at the last consented to receive the Romans into the town. Which brought to pass, Scipio returned to Sicilia, leaving behind him Q. Pleminius captain of the town, with a garrison sufficient for the keeping of the same. After whose departing, Pleminius with his soldiers, far passed Amylcar and the Carthaginenses in pride avarice and all other vices. So that it seemed, they strove not, who should overcome other in feats of arms: but who should exceed other in vice. They spared neither men's wives maidens nor daughters: they exercised cruel rapine of men's goods, and spoiling of temples. Whereof the citizens being weary, sent message of complaint to Scipio the consul. whereupon he eftsoons came to Locrus, where he had all their matters debated, and at length punished certain of them by emprysonment: and after departed, leaving still Q. Pleminius capitayne there, with no less authority than he had be fore. But after he departed, Pleminius willing to execute his malice over his enemies, put certain of them to cruel death: which before had complained of him to the consul. His soldiers also were afterward more cruel and unruly than they were before. Therefore they sent legates to Rome, with grievous complaint to the senate, of the manifold injuries, hurts, and cruel pains, that they suffered: moche more by the Romans, then ever they had by the Carthaginenses. Whose complaint being well and delyberately herd in the senate, Quintus Fabius, replete with old malice against Scipio, to set forth his negligence, inquired of the legates, whether they had never before that time showed their cause to the consul Scipio. They answered, that at their first complaint, he herd the matter, and then putting the tribunes in prison, he let Pleminius go at liberty, and put him again in authority: although he was worthy more punishment than the other. But at their second complaint made to him by their legates, he was so busied about the setting forwards of his ships & men into Africa, that he could not attend to here or examine their matter. Then was there great reproach spoken of Scipio, by many of the princes of the senate, specially Q. Fabius alleged, that he was born to corrupt and destroy all warlike policy and learning, by his overmuch sufferance and giving of liberty. Some would have had Pleminius brought to Rome bound, and Scipio called from his province. At the last the sentence of Q. Metellus took place, which was, that it was good, to send for Pleminius, according to the mind of Fabius. But as touching Scipio, whom the whole city first had chosen in his youth to be a captain in spain, and he according to their expectation had delivered the hole country out of the hands of their enemies: whereupon they also of late had chosen him consul, to subdue Africa, and to deliver Italy of Hannibal: He thought it not meet for such a noble man to be suddenly condemned, his cause not being duly herd and debated, or to have him called from his journey, without a greater cause than this was. Considering that the Locrenses could lay no default to Scipio, but only overmuch sufferance of Pleminius. Wherefore he thought it best, that M. Pomponius, with ii tribunes, should be sent to Locrus, & from thence to Sicilia, to examine & try, whether the wrongs done to the Locrenses, were done by the commandment or assent of P. Scipio or not. And in case he were consenting thereto: then that they should command him to return to Rome: & other legates to occupy his place, or else that he should continue in his purpose and journey into Africa, as he had appointed.  
¶ According to this sentence Pomponius, with ii tribunes & other legates, came to Locrus, making proclamation, that if any man would accuse Pleminius, Scipio, or any other man, that they should come before them, and they should be well heard. The Locrenses giving great thanks to the Romans, for the goodness therein to them showed, answered, that they would accuse Pleminius, as chief doer of all the mischief, and certain other with him. But as touching Scipio, they had nothing to charge him withal: but that he either gave overmuch credence to Pleminius, or to little faith to their words. But they said, they knew weary well, that the wrongs to them done, were neither by the will nor commandment of Scipio: but they thought him to be of the nature of many men, which are sorry, that any wrong or offence should be committed, and yet when the injuries be done, they have not the hearts or wills to revenge or punish the offenders of the same.  
¶ With this answer M. Pomponius, and the other, were much eased of any further inquiry of Scipio's matter. wherefore they took Pleminius, and xxx other of his complices, that were found guilty of divers great offences, and sent them bound to Rome: where Pleminius died in prison. soon after the other were put to condign execution. Then thought they to go to Scipio, to see, whether the slander spoken of his sloth in governance, or of the misorder of his host, were true or not: that they might thereof make true report, when they were returned to Rome.  
¶ Scipio hearing of their coming, caused all his army to repair to Syracuse, where he than lay: and also caused his navy of ships, to be set forth and ordered in all points, as though he should the same day have fought with the Carthaginenses, both by water and by land. When Pomponius, and the other ambassadors were come, he gently and lovingly received them. he showed them his army on the land in array ready to fight: his navy also on the sea, he showed them not only ready to battle, but making a show of a fight in the haven. Than led he them to his garners of corn: and into his armoury and store houses of ordinance and artillery, and all instruments of war. Who seeing all his provision and order, were stricken with a great admiration of him and his conduct: judging that through his governance and his army, the Carthaginenses should be overcome: or else it were never possible for them to be subdued. Wherefore desiring the God's to prosper well his journey, they departed from him, taking their way to Rome with great joy, as though they were going to bring tidings to Rome of victory, rather than to report the marvelous preparation toward battle, which they had seen in Sicilia. when they came into the senate house, they extolled the fame and acts of Scipio after such sort, that they sent him word incontinent, to depart towards Carthage, taking with him whom he would, leaving behind him for the defence of Sicilia certain at his pleasure.   

¶ King Syphax marrieth the daughter of Asdrubal, he sendeth letters to Scipio, willing him to abstain from any war in Africa, with the answer and dyssimulation of Scipio unto the same. Scipio arriveth in Africa with his host, to whom cometh Massanissa. Ca lxii.  
Whiles the Romans made this great ordinance for the war: the Carthaginenses, fearing greatly the coming of Scipio, prepared as moche as they could for their defence and strength. Wherefore to pluck Syphax from the amity of the Romans, Asdrubal, the son of Gisgon made haste to finish a marriage between Syphax and his daughter, that was a very fair maiden. The king being inflamed with love, made haste also to be married. Then Asdrubal, besides his particular alliance, made a new general bond of amity between him and the Carthaginenses, with great solemnity and oaths taking: promising faithfully, that the friends and enemies of the one, should also be the friends or enemies to the other. Never the less Asdrubal remembering the promise of amity, that the king had once made with Scipio, when he was lodged with him in his palais: knowing the mutability and unsteadfastness of those barbarous nations, and fearing lest if that Scipio were once arrived in Africa, that the band of marriage would be but little worth: Therefore whiles the love was fervent between the king and his daughter, he by his great desire, and his daughter also with her fair entreating, caused the king to send his ambassadors to Scipio into Sicilia, with letters, giving him warning, that he should not upon the trust of any promise to him before made by the king, sail over into Africa: advertising him, that he had married the daughter of one Asdrubal of Carthage, whom Scipio met in his palace, when he arrived in Africa. Furthermore he said, he was in a great league and amity with the people of Carthage. Wherefore he desired him and the Romans, if they would war with the Carthaginenses, that they do it far from Carthage, as they have done heretofore, that he should not need to be present at their battles. For in case Scipio would not forbear Africa, but lay siege to Carthage, he could no less do, but fight for the defence of his country of Africa, in which he was gotten borne and brought up: and for the defence of the country of his wife, for her father and family.  
¶ With these letters came the messengers to the city of Syracuse to Scipio, who perceived by the contents of the same, that he should have great lack of the kings help, in his business of Africa: yet he set forth a countenance, keeping secret the cause of their coming, till he had sent them home again to the king with letters: wherein he moved him, never to break the promise that he ones made him, nor serve from the faith and amity made with the Romans, whereof the gods were witnesses. When the messengers were departed with his letters, Scipio fearing, lest his soldiers would muse much and devise also of the cause of the coming of the said messengers, to hide the said cause from them, and to put them in courage, he dissembled the matter, and calling his men together said to them.  
¶ Sirs now is the full time for us to departed hence into Africa, without further tarrying. For the kings our friends have sent unto us, instantly desiring us, to make speed. first Massanissa came to Lelius, complaining greatly of our tracting of time. And now Syphax hath also sent unto us, marvelling why we tarry so long. desiring that we will either shortly come over to him, or else in case we be otherwise minded, to certify him by writing: that thereupon he may provide for himself and his country. Wherefore since allthings is now ready, and the matter requireth haste, I intend to lead mine army & navy to the parts of Lilibeus: & as soon as the wether, serveth, to departed with the favour of the gods towards Africa.  
¶ After these words to them spoken, he ordered all things for his departing, and soon after came to the said port, with all his host. All his ships also met him there. The number whereof was so great, that the haven sufficed not to contain them, nor the city could not receive the men. Of the certainty of the number writers do not agree. Wherefore I will let it pass. But it seemeth, the number of the men was great, that achieved so great an enterprise, and for whom so great provision was made. For there were four C. ships charged with men victuals ordinances and other necessary carriage, besides twenty great and long ships: whereof Scipio himself, and L Scipio his brother, took the governance. and other twenty like ships under the rule of C. Lelius his admiral of the sea. Which xl great ships thus divided, sailed ever on both sides of the other four C. as wafters, for the defence of their victuals and carriage. In every ship also he caused to be victuals and fresh water for xlv days: whereof the meat that would serve for xu days, was ready sodden: the other was raw. Then gave he commandment to all his soldiers, to keep peace and silence in their ships, for troubling the shipmen: and that they should be ready to do all that the said shipmen desired them to do, if need required. With this great numbered of ships and of men, they departed the day following: Every one of the xl long ships being appointed to have in the night season one light, every one of the four C. laden ships. u. lights, and the captains chief ships for a special mark or knowledge, had three fair lights. In the morning at the sounding of a trumpet the vessels set forth in good order. And Scipio himself at his departing made his prayer openly in the audience of many people on this manner.  
¶ Oye gods and goddesses, which inhabit rule and govern both sea and land, I humbly beseech you, that ye grant all things that I have done, do, or shall do, may turn to the honour and wealth of me and the citizens of Rome, and that ye will be aiding and assisting to me in my procedings: So that our enemies, being over come, we may safe and sound return home to our houses, laden with the pray gotten by the spoil of our enemies. Grant ye also, that I may have power, so to do unto the people and city of Carthage, as they have intended to do to the city of Rome.  
¶ After these words, doing sacrifice (after the custom that they used) he departed. The wind was good, and in short space took them from the fight of the land, and within four days, they were brought upon the cost of Africa. Then Scipio seeing a great mounteyne or rock, lienge out upon the sea, inquired of the master of his ship, what was the name of that mountain. He answered, it is named the mount of beauty. Then said Scipio, I like the name and the luck thereof very well: in the next haven thereto set us on land. When the army was landed, they get them to the next hills, whereupon they pitched their tents, and encamped themselves. Then were the inhabitants of the sea costs, and all the country there about, in great fear and trouble, perceiving the arrival of so great a navy, every man fled from those parties, taking with them their wines their children and substance: driving before them their cattle to the next strong towns, to the great fear of all the country, where the news thereof was brought. Specially in Carthage such fear sorrow and trouble invaded the people, as though their city had been all ready taken by their enemies. They were then unprovided both of men of war, and also of a good captain to be their governor. The best captain that they then had, was Asdrubal the son of Bysgon, whom Scipio at divers battles in Spain, had before put to flight, and at the last drove him clean out of Spain, with all his helpers: so that they esteemed the captains to be as far unlike, as the army of Carthage was unlike to the Roman host. In this great fear the gates of the city were shut, the walls kept with watch and ward, as though their enemies had been already come before the walls of the town. five hundred horsemen were also sent forth to espy the conduit of the Romans, who by chance met with many Roman horsemen, that were sent out to rob and spoil the fields adjoining, and were by them put to flight, to the great loss of many of the Carthaginenses.  
¶ soon after the arrival of the Romans, came Massanissa to Scipio, bringing with him ii C. good men well horsed. His power was then not great, for he had been driven and chased out of his own realm, and was banished by strength out of his own country. Whose coming was very joyful and comfortable to the Romans. The Carthaginenses after the loss of their horsemen, assembled again a new wing of horsemen, whereof they made governor Hanno, the son of Amilcar. Then sent they letters and legates to Asdrubal, to come to the succour of the city, that was at point to be besieged. They sent also to king Syphax, desiring him to come to the succour & defence both of Carthage & also of all Africa. Then lay the Romans near unto the city of Utica. Hanno having with him four M. horsemen, came to the town of Salera, xv. miles from the Roman camp. When Scipio had knowledge thereof, he sent Massanissa before, with certain horsemen with him to shirmishe with them at the gates. Commanding him, that so soon as the multitude of his enemies were once come forth, and that he could no longer endure their strength, that then he should softly withdraw himself towards the hills, where he should find him with his host, ready to secure him. With this instruction Massanissa departed & road to the gates of the city, skirmishing with such as were at the said gates. came forth to the battle, without good order, & then Massanissa feigning himself to be afraid, somewhat recoiled: sometime he turned again and fought, with them that followed him. Thus he played at base with them, till the whole multitude of horsemen were come forth of the yates. Than soberly he withdrew himself till he came to the hills: to which hills the Roman horsemen were than covertly come. Than Massanissa fiercely returned and assailed his enemies, and the Romans being fresh themselves, and having fresh horses, compassed and assailed them that were before almost weighed with chase Massanissa: so that at the first brunt Hanno himself, and ●. M. horsemen with him were slain. The rest fled, whereof the Romans in the chase slew and took other ii M. among whom were many noble men of the city of Carthage. The pray after the victory was great. The town was taken, and the captains with other men of arms were well rewarded by Scipio. But above other he gave Massanissa great gifts, and leaving a sufficient garrison in the town, he with his host removed thence: sending moche of the pray, which he had taken, both men, beasts, and other richesse, by certain of his ships into Sicilia: intending himself to assail the city of Utica, with all his power: which if he might once win, he reckoned to be a resting place for him and his, till the rest of his voyage were achieved.  
¶ Thus was the town of Utica besieged round about, & their hope was to have succours of Asdrubal: who had assembled together xxx M. footmen, and iii M. horsemen. Never the less for all that numbered, Asdrubal durst not set forth of Carthage till king Syphax was also come to him with thirty thousand footmen, and ten M. horsemen. Then set he forwards, and came near unto Utica, pytchinge his tents and camp not far from the roman army. There came about this time from Sicilia and Sardinia, great plenty of wheat, to victual the Romans: so that they had thereof great plenty. There was also brought thither xii C. gowns, and xii M. coats for the soldiers, and provision was made for all things that they lacked. These were the acts of Scipio in Africa this summer.  
¶ During which summer P. Sempronius the consul in Italy fought with Hannibal: where the romans had the worst, and lost xii C. of their men. But soon after Sempronius sent for P. Licinius the proconsul, to come to him with his army. After whose coming, their powers being joined together they went towards Hannibal, and he being joyful of his last victory, fought with them again, to his great loss. For there were above four M. of his men slain, and iii. C. taken. Then Hannibal, being greatly discomforted with this loss, returned from thence to Croton. soon after the time of the choosing of consuls was come, at which Cn. Servilius Cepio, and Cn. Servilius Geminus were create consuls, & other officers were chosen, according to the old custom, divers cities also of the Brutiens, as Consentia, Pandosia, and other, submitted themselves, and returned again to the Romans.   

¶ Scipio wisely espying the manner of his enemies camps, in the night burneth them both, putteth Syphax and Asdrubal to flight, with great loss of their men. They make again a new field, and are eftsoons discomfited and put to flight. Cap. lxiii.  
THe winter drew near, and both the great hosts lay encamped not far from Utica: Yet Scipio never ceased from the besieging of the town, and his camp was in sight of his enemies. His mind was still upon his business touching the war. Among other his cares, he devised greatly, by what means he might win king Syphax from the Carthaginenses, judging that the heat of love, which he had to his young wife, was by that time somewhat assuaged, and that he was then weary of the pleasure in love, being (as he thought) satisfied therein to his contentation: When he had by legates assayed the mind of the king, he made answer, that he would entreat of peace between the Romans and the Carthaginenses, Upon this condition, that the Romans should depart clean out of Africa, and the Carthaginenses likewise out of Italy, without further trouble: orels he would not fail to pursue the war on the party of the Carthaginenses. With these conditions Scipio was nothing pleased: Nevertheless, trusting by further communication in the matter: to have advantage, by the search and true knowledge of the state of his enemies, through the common intercourse of either party to the others camp: he faintly refused those conditions, whereby his enemies might take some hope of the achievinge of their purpose. Now were the winter houses in the camps of the Carthaginenses made of wood and bows, such as they could get together. The numidians lodgings were covered with flags and reeds, and they lay within their camp, without order. Many also choosing their own places without assignment, lay without the camp or dyches: which being showed to Scipio, gave him a comfort and an hope, that the lodgings of his enemies by policy might be set on fire. Wherefore at every time that he sent any ambassadors to the king Syphax, to entreat of the peace, to be perfectly assured of the ●rewe state of all things, he ever sent with them certain witty fellows of his army, disguised in the habit and form of slaves, commanding them, whiles the ambassadors were busy in their communication, that they should stray abroad to all parts of the camp of his enemies, and to mark well the entrees and issues of the camps, with the site & fashion of the station or lodgings, as well of the Carthaginenses as of the numidians, and in what quarter they were set, and how far the kings camp was distant from the camp of Asdrubal, with the manner of their watch and ward both by night and by day.  
¶ When the matter was thus diverse times debated between the two counsels: and that the Romans were perfect of all the state of their enemies, and their order: Then the legates of Scipio said unto the king, that they were commanded never to return, until they had brought determinate answer, either of peace or of war: desiring him, either to give answer thereof himself, or to take the counsel and advise of Asdrubal and the Carthaginenses, and thereupon to make them their answer. For it was now high time to know, either the one or the other, without further tryfeling forth of time. Thus while Syphax took the advise of Asdrubal, and Asdrubal of the noble men of Carthage, the espies had leisure to view and search all things that they were charged with: and Scipio had time to prepare all that was meet to serve his purpose. The numidians also and the Carthaginenses, trusting ever on peace, were negligent in foreseeing and avoiding dangers of war, that were prepared for their mischief. At the last answer was made, that the Romans would have peace, but their conditions were not indifferent, which they desired. whereupon Scipio, having a good occasion, honestly to break the truce before between them taken: On the morrow he sent word to the king, that sins he perceived no man willing to have peace but himself: therefore the king from thence forth should trust to have no peace with the Romans, unless he would leave the amity of the Carthaginenses. Then was the time of truce expired, and the spring of the year was come. Wherefore Scipio, to bring his purpose about, assembled together his ships, and furnished them with ordinance and artillery, as though he would assail Utica on the sea cost. He also sent two thousand men of war to keep the hill about Utica, which before lay unkepte: And that he did for two purposes.  
first, to draw the minds of his enemies from the suspection of that which he had devised, and to occupy them with contrary work. Secondly, with that power to defend his camp from the excursions of the citizens, in case they would issue out, whiles he with his power were gone to Syphax and Asdrubal. Then did he open unto Massanissa, and certain other, what his mind was to do the night following. And he commanded the Tribunes, that in the evening following, they should bring forth the host into the fields. They according to his commandment, about the son setting, set forth the standards and banners, and in the beginning of the night, the host set forward in array, so that by midnight they had gone vii miles, and were come near to the camp of their enemies. Then Scipio divided his army in ii parts. The one part with the numidians, he appointed to Lelius and Massanissa, willing them to invade the camp of king Syphax, and to set fire on the lodgings made of bows and of flags, heartily praying them both, that night to apply their business with great diligence. And he said, that so soon as he might perceive the fire to be in the kings camp, than would he also assail the camp of Asdrubal.  
¶ According to his commandment the purpose was achieved. For incontinent after the fire was put into the uttermost parts and houses, the fire anon took in the dry sticks and flags, and ran from one house to an other: so that in short space it was abroad in every part of the camp. The numidians of the kings host, perceiving the fire, were stricken with a sudden great fear, and the more because it chanced in the night season. yet nothing mistrusting the cause thereof to arise through their enemies, but judging it to come through some negligence or evil fortune. They ran on all parts to help to cease or quench the fire, without armour or weapons. Now Massanissa, which knew the ways and entrees about the kings camp, had so laid his numidians in embushmentes, that as the people ran abroad to quench the fire, they fell into the company of their enemies ere they knew where they were, and by that means many were slain, many also were burned in their beds with fire. The watch of the Carthaginenses, in the camp of Asdrubal, perceiving the great fires in the kings camp, awaked the rest of the host. Who being also deceived, for that they thought the fire was happened by negligence, and not by the devise of their enemies, and hearing the great cry of their company in the kings host, that were slain, which they thought came but only through the sudden fear of the fire, that was happened in the night: they ran together in companies unarmed out of the gates of their camps, the next way, taking only with them such things, wherewith they might quench the fire. Whom the Romans received as they came, and flew them every one, that none escaped to bear tidings thereof. Then Scipio incontinent invaded the camp. Where fyuding the gates there of unwarded, he entered with his army, and set fire on the lodgings in diverse parts, which spreading abroad, in short space burned all that was therein, both man beast and stuff. And such as would have fled from the danger of the fire, were slain with the sword of the Romans.  
¶ Thus in one time were both the camps won. Nevertheless both the captains escaped with twenty M. footmen, and v. C. horsemen: whereof many were wounded and hurt with that fire. There were slain and burned that night xl M. besides them that there were taken, above vi thousand, with many noble men of Carthage: whereof xl were senators, with a great and rich pray, of horse's armure and other things much of valour, which were distributed amongs the soldiers. The king with certain with him, fled to his own country.  
¶ Asdrubal with as great speed as he mightcame to Carthage, where he found the city sore troubled, and in great fear. For they judged, that Scipio, leaving the further assault of Utica, would incontinent after his victory come to assault and overcome Carthage. Than they determined, in haste to assemble a new host of the city and country about them. They also sent messengers to king Syphax, to require him, that he would gather his power, and help to defend both his country and theirs. Whereunto his young wife much moved him: who piteously weeping, desired him not to suffer his fathers and her country to be destroyed, and the city of Carthage to be bourned by the Romans, as they of late bourned the kings tents and her fathers. The legates of Carthage also showed him, that good fortune was coming towards them. For that there were arrived of late four M. men of war of Celtiberia, a country of Spain, which were hired to come to their succours. And that Asdrubal would not fail to join with him with a full noble army. To whom the king gave gentle answer, saying, that he would assemble and put in armour all the lusty young men of his realm. For he said, he knew well, that he was before overcome by fire, and not by battle. Wherefore he would never account himself vanquished, whiles he were overcome and subdued in the field by strength and power. With this answer the messengers departed.  
¶ And shortly after, according to their appointment, Asdrubal and the king met together, with their armies, and had between them both xxx M. men. Scipio hearing of their new coming again on him, with that power, left at the said Utica, a small numbered of his people, both by sea and by land: and himself with his great power, went to meet his enemies. He pitched his camp in the plain field, not far from the kings camp, where light skirmishes were made between the horsemen of both parts, by the space of iii days. On the fourth day, the captains prepared their hosts to battle.  
¶ Scipio set his spearemen in the front of his battle: behind whom were his best assured soldiers footmen set to their aid and succours. On the right wing were his horsemen of Italy. In the left wing was Massanissa with his Numidian horsemen.  
¶ On the other side, Asdrubal against the wing of italian horsemen, set his Numidians, and against Massanissa he set his Carthaginenses. In the mids were the new soldiers of Celtiberia. Thus being ordered, the battles joined. And at the first encounter, both the wings of the Carthaginenses and of the Numidians were driven back. For the Numidians being now rude and untaught men of arms, were noothinge able to resist the Roman horsemen: neither the Carthaginenses (being also unexpert in feats of war) were able to withstand Massanissa, that was fierce and terrible, through the joy of his late victory. Wherefore the wings being thus put to flight, the poor army of the Celtiberians remained alone, naked, destitute of help or refuge. Fly they durst not, for that being in an unknown country, they knew no place whither to fly to be saved. Again, if they were taken, they looked for no grace at Scipio's hand: seeing they came from their own country into Africa, to fight against him that had before oft times been their good friend. Wherefore, being compassed about with their enemies, they were slain one upon an other without pity. But whiles all men were busy about them, Syphax and Asdrubal had time to escape, to whom the night being so near, was much their safeguard.  
¶ What fear the Carthaginenses were in after this great overthrow of their friends, and seeing Scipio with his army, over riding the country round about them, and winning the cities and towns, which were under their subjection: no pen can write, nor tongue express. They looked every hour when their city should be environed with their enemies: they fortified their walls, they brought in victuals to endure a longer space, and prepared all things necessary. They consulted, what were best for them to do. It was agreed, that messengers should be sent with letters to Hannibal, commanding him to come to Carthage with his power to their socours.  
¶ Certain of the senators gave counsel, that a good number of ships, furnished with men and ordinance, should suddenly invade the Roman host and navy, that lay in rest at Utica: not mistrusting, but they should find the ships negligently kept: whereby with small pain they might oppress them. On these two points the senators agreed. The ships were set forth, and letters were also sent to Hannibal. Scipio returning from the battle, leading and carrying with him the spoil or pray of many towns, which he wan: sent his said pray with the prisoners to his camp at Utica. He himself came to Tons, which he found void of men of war. They were fled after the battle, and left the town without any garrison. Of the taking of this town Scipio was very glad, as well for that it was naturally strong by reason of the site thereof, beside that it was surely fortified by the industry of man, as also for that the place was so commodyouse for his purpose. It was distant from Carthage twelve miles. Yet from thence he might well see the city of Carthage, and also the sea that bet on the walls of the town.  
¶ Whiles the Romans were casting a trench and fortifiing this town of Tons: they perceived the navy of the Carthaginenses sailing towards Utica. Than Scipio leaving his works, made haste with his men towards Utica, to come to the help of his ships, that lay at the siege thereof, and came before the arriving of the Carthaginenses: who trifled the time on the sea, being in fear to set on that enterprise: so that Scipio had provided well for the defence of his ships before their coming. Never the less after moche trouble and fight on the sea, they took with them vi roman ships, and returned to Carthage, where no small joy was made of that very small gain.   

¶ Syphax maketh a new fialde with Lelius and Massanissa: where he is taken prisoner, and his men put to flight. Massanissa then taketh the city of Cirtha, and there in haste, marrieth Sophonisba, wife to king Spphax. Cap. lxiiii.  
THe morrow after the battle was fought, and the king Syphax escaped, as is before declared, Scipio sent Lelius and Massanissa, with all the roman horsemen & the lightest harneissed footmen, and also the Numidians, to follow the king and Asdrubal: whiles he went about to win the towns and country adjacent to Carthage. They within xv. days came into Numidia: at whose coming, a people thereof called Masesuli, received gladly Massanissa, and delivered him the whole realm, as to their rightful king, whose coming they had so long desired, expelling clean out of the cities and fortresses thereof, all the garnisons of Syphax, so that he was glad to keep him within the bonds of his own realm. His heart swelled at this displeasure, willing to be revenged: whereunto his wife and her father moche intyced him, and pricked him forwards. He had great plenty of men, and also of horses, which moche encouraged him to make a new field. Wherefore he assembled as many as he thoughtable, giving them horses and harness: dividing his horsemen and footmen into companies, appointing to them captains, according as he before had learned of the Romans. Thus having all things in a readiness, he marched towards his enemies, with as great an host as he had before: but they were almost all new soldiers, and young men of war. When he came near the host of the Romans he there fortified his camp. And anon certain of his horsemen issued and bad base to another numbered of the Roman horsemen. And who so was beaten, returned again to his company, and was anon rescued of an other numbered of his company. Thus by divers issuynges and helping every part their companies, being either ashamed or angry of their driving back, the battle began to be quick on both parts, so that at the last the hole companies of horsemen on both parts were come to the fields. The numbered of king Syphax host was come so thick to the battle, that the Romans were fain to recoil, and had been put to the worse, had not the Roman legions of footmen come to their succours. At whose coming the kings people musing of their order and manner of fighting, began to stay, and at the last were driven back, and began to flee. Syphax, willing to withhold his people from flight, began to exhort them to abide, and manfully to fight, showing unto them, both the shame and also the jeopardy that would ensue through their flying.  
¶ And whiles he road about the field, comforting his people, he happened to come near a company of Romans, where his horse was stricken down and slain under him, and he taken alive, and brought to Lelius. His people fled as fast as they might, and came to the city of Cirtha, which was the chief city of all that realm. There were of his men slain in that battle .v. M. and about ii M. v. C. taken. Than said Massanissa to Lelius: There were nothing to me more pleasant, than having now victory, to visit my father's kingdom, which after my long exile, I have now recovered. But the time will not suffer us to cease from our enterprise. wherefore, if ye will suffer me, to take with me all the horse men, and the king also now prisoner: I will go before you to Cirtha, where I shall find every man so surprised with fear, that I shall soon win it with small resistance: ye, with your footmen may come after me small journeys at your ease.  
¶ To this his device Lelius assented. And Massanissa with his horsemen hasted, till he came to the walls of the city of Cirtha, where he called certain of the town to him, and desired to have certain of the noble men of the city to come forth and speak with him, which done, he moved them gently, to yield up their city: But they, not knowing of the taking of their king, in no wise would be persuaded to submit themselves to the Romans. Than caused Massanissa the king Syphax to be brought before them bound as a prisoner. After which pitiful sight, the citizens partly for fear, partly trusting thereby to obtain favour of Massanissa and of the Romans, opened the yates of the city. And Massanissa, leaving first the gates & walls furnished with his people, to th'intent none of the city should escape out: he with great speed road to the kings palace. Where at his first entre he found Sophonisba, the wife of Syphax, daughter to Asdrubal of Carthage, who abode his coming at the gate of his palace. when she espied him coming among a great rout of men of arms, she judging partly by his goodly armure, partly by his rich apparel, that he was the king: she fell on her knees before him and said: The God's, thy strength, and thy good fortune 〈…〉 the full power to do with us what so ever shall be t●y pleasure. Never the less if the prayer of a poor woman ●●y take place with her lord, that hath power both of life and of death: I humbly beseech thee, by that royal majesty, wherein of late also we were, and for the love of the name of the people and country of Numidia, which appertained both to Syphax and to you: for the love also of the God's of this place, whom I desire to send the better & more prosperus coming hither, than they gave to Syphax a departing hens, that thou wilt grant me to be thy prisoner. and what so ever thy pleasure be to do with me, I shall not refuse it: so that thou suffer me not to come into the cruel and proud dominion of any Roman. I had leaver adventure to yield me into the power of a Numidian, and of one that is borne in mine own country of Africa, than to the hands of a stranger. For it is not unknown to you, how moche the daughter of Asdrubal and a Carthaginense borne, hath cause to fear the hand of a Roman. And in case thou canst none otherwise help my desire, I most heartily require thee, to steam: and thus by death deliver me from the danger of the Romans.  
¶ This queen being of excellent beauty, and in her lusty flourishing age, what with her humble behaviour, what with her fair speech, so persuaded the king Massanissa, that he not only took her to mercy, but also having the victory of her, & the hole city, he became so captive to her by love, that he takig her by the right hand, promised her, her request, and thereupon he mounted into the kings palace. Than he began to dyvise in his imagination, by what means he might perform his promise unto the queen. And when he could find no way to bring his purpose to pass, as one that was overcome with blind love, he invented a foolish and a shameful device, which was, to be married incontinent unto her the same day: thinking by the marriage of her unto him, he had taken away all occasion both from Lelius and also from Scipio, of doing her any hurt or displeasure. When the marriage was stnyshed, Lelius with his host of footmen came to the city of Cyrtha. And knowing of the sudden wedding he was so displeased with the act, that he was minded to take her from the pleasant bed of her new husband, and to send her to Scipio, with her husband Syphax and other ●●isoners. But at the last, he being overcome by th'intercession of Massanissa, who remitted the order of that matter to the judgement of Scipio: he sent Syphax and other prisoners to the emperor Scipio. After whose departing, he, by the help of Massanissa, received the other towns and cities of that country of Numidia into his hands: which before were kept by the retinue of king Syphax.   

¶ Syphax is brought to the camp of Scipio, Massanissa sendeth to Sophonisba poison, which she without fear drinketh. Capi. lxv.  
When tidings came into the Roman camp, of the coming of Syphax, and the other noble captives: great was the numbered of people that ran to behold them. The king being bound, was carried formooste, and after him followed a great numbered of the nobility of Numidia. And as the opinion of men is divers, so diverse were the tales of the people, extolling the honour of the victory by the mighty power of Syphax, and by the noble fame of the people that was overcome. There was recounted the mighty power of the king, to whose majesty in one day ii of the most noble signories of the world sued for his favour and friendship, that is to say the romans and the Carthaginenses. The Romans sent their valiant emperor and captain Scipio, only with ii galeys that bare five oores on every side, into Africa, to seek his amity, leaving in spain, than his province, all his host and great charge. Again Asdrubal, the capitain of the Carthaginenses, not only came into his country for amity, but also he gave him his daughter in marriage, for the more sure consyrmation of alliance between them. Some rehearsed the power and acts of Syphax to be such, that he had driven Massanissa out of his realm, bringing him to such extreme calamity, that his life could none otherwise be saved, but by the bruit and fame of his death: and he after glad to hide his head in dens or caves, and to live in the forests and woods like a wild beast.  
¶ With these and such like famous report of the beholders he was brought into the tent of Scipio: who was by his presence and sight much moved with pity, considering the honour that he of old time had known him in, and conferring the same to his present misery. Than Scipio after salutations made, & other communication between them had 〈…〉, what he would have him to do to him: seeing he 〈◊〉 only refused the amity of the Romans, but also willingly gavetheim battle. To whom the king answered, that he knew well, that he had offended, and he confessed, that he was not in his right mind, when he moved war against them. He was mad: when he did forget the coming of Scipio into his realm, and the bond of alliance that he then made with him: but specially when he received into his house a matron of Carthage, of whose hot love and marriage the fiery brands had already set fire in his royal palace. That mad and pestilent fury, by her enticement never ceased, till she had turned his heart and mind from his old friends the Romans: causing him to pursue the war against them. Never the less (said he) in all my misery I have nothing that so moche doth comfort me, and rejoice my heart, as when I behold the same pestilent mad fury now to be entered the house of my most enemy. And when I consider that Massanissa is no more wise than Syphar was: but that he more madly, and with less temperance hath received her, than ever I did.  
¶ With these words of the king, Scipio was not a little troubled, and then hearing the great offence laid to Massanissa, he saw good cause, why he should give credence thereto. considering the great haste made in the marriage, without the advise of Lelius, and without abiding his coming. This act also seemed worse, and more to be abhorred, considering, that he being a young man in Spain, was never before taken with the love of any captive or prisoner.  
¶ As he was musing hereon, anon Lelius and Massanissa came unto him, whom in open audience he merrily and joyfully received, giving them great thanks and praises for their diligence in that journey showed. But anon, taking Massanissa alone with him in to a secret place, he said thus unto him.  
¶ I know right well Massanissa, that you did perceive some good qualities and virtues in me, when you first came into Spain to me, defyring there my friendship and amity: and afterward in Africa, when ye wholly committed yourself into my governance. But at that time ye thought yourself, that there was no virtue in me, which ye so much esteemed as temperance and continency: of which also I truly did most glory of myself. And these virtues Massanissa I would ye should join unto other noble qualities and virtues, wherewith ye are endued. For believe me, there is not so much danger to men of our young age by armed enemies, as is by voluptuous pleasure of our wanton desires, which ever are ready to vanquish us. And who so ever through temperance can bridle and subdue those affections, is worthy more honour, and hath achieved a greater victory, than we have now had by the taking of king Syphax. The acts which ye have so valiantly and nobly done in mine absence, remain daily in my memory: the other your evil acts I had liefer ye did call to remembrance yourself, then that I should declare them to your great shame. Syphax, by the good fortune of the Romans, is now overcome and taken. Wherefore he, his wife, his kingdom, his possessions, his towns and castles, his people, inhabitants of the same, with all that ever to Syphax belonged, is now a pray due to the people of Rome. The king and his wife (although she had not been a citizen of Carthage, and although her father were not the captain of our enemies) ought to be sent to Rome, and there she ought to abide the judgement of the senators, and people of the city, for that she turned the mind of the king her husband from our friendship, persuading him to take armour against us. Wherefore now overcome your own affectionate mind, and beware, that with one vice, ye disgrace not so many your good virtues: and by one offence, lose the reward and the thanks, which by your merits ye have here tofore worthily deserved.  
¶ With these secret rebukes Massanissa was not only ashamed, but also constrained to weep, saying: that he would always be at his commandment. Never the less he desired him, as much as might be admitted, to regard the faithful promise that he had unadvisedly made unto her: which was, that he would deliver her into none other man's hands. After these words, all abashed he departed to his own tent, where remaining alone, he sighed and sobbed a great season so vehemently, that such as were without his tent might easily hear him. At the last, making doleful lamentation, he called to him one of his faithful and secret servants, who had the keeping of his poison, according to the ●●age 〈◊〉 kings and princes: who used to have the same ever kept near to them, thereby to overcome the incertainty of fortune: part of this poison put into drink, he sent by him in a cup to Sophonisba, commanding him to say to her, that Massanissa would (if he had could) gladly have kept his first promise made unto her, as becometh a man to do to his wife: but since it lieth not in his power, to perfurme it, yet will he keep his second promise made unto her, which was that she should not, whiles she were on live, come into the danger of any Roman. Wherefore he willeth her, to remember the Emperor her father, and the ii kings, to whom she hath been married, and thereafter regard her own honour.  
¶ When the messenger had presented to Sophonisba the poison, and done his message, she answered: I will receive this marriage gift, and that gladly, if a husband can give no better gift to his wife. But (said she) I pray the show Massanissa, that my death had not been so grievous to me, if I had not married so near the going to my grave. And without giving other sharp words to the messenger, she without fear or trembling, took the drink empoisoned, and drank it of.  
¶ When this was showed unto Scipio, lest Massanissa, being a fierce young man, and taking this displeasantly in his mind, might do some hurt to himself: he called him unto him: sometime comforting him, sometime gently rebuking him, for that he had corrected his first folly with an other foolish act, making of the thing more sorrow than needed. On the next day, to the intent he would put all such fantasies out of his mind: he ascended to the place of judgement, whither he caused all his host to assemble. There he first gave to Massanissa the name of a king: and after great lawdes and praises given to him, he also gave him many rich gifts, as a crown of gold, with a great bowl of gold, a chair of ivory, a walking staff of ivory, a rich gown, with a cote of bawdekyn, used to be worn in ●ygne of victory. And to set the matter forth to his further honour, he declared, that in any triumph at Rome, after any victory had of their enemies, no man could wear any more noble apparel than this, which he had given him. saying also, that of all strangers the 〈◊〉 of Rome judged only Massanissa worthy to be presented with th●se gifts. Then called he forth Lelius, to whom he also gave great praises, and rewarded him with a crown of gold. And after he rewarded other his soldiers, according to their deserts. By this gentle handling and honour given to the king Massanissa, his troubled mind was pacified: and he was put in hope after the death of Syphax, to be ruler of all Numidia. Then Scipio sent Lelius to Rome, with Syphax and other prisoners, with whom also went the ambassadors of Massanissa. And he after their departing, went again to Tunise, where he encamped his host, and fortified the place, making an end of the works, which he before had begun.   

¶ Lelius, with king Syphax, and other prisoners, and the ambassadors of Massanissa, came to Rome: Massanissa is made king of his realm of Numidia. Cap. lxvi.  
THe Carthaginenses, hearing of the taking of Syphax, in whom they had as much trust, as they had in Asdrubal, and his army: began then to be faint hearted. Wherefore since they knew no further help in their war, they sent xxx the most noble senators of their city to Scipio, to entreat of peace. These ancient noble men, so soon as they came into the pavilion of the praetor before Scipio, of a flattering fashion they fell prostrate to the ground, and then made an humble and a flattering oration, not purging themselves and their city of their offence, but laying the beginning of all the default in Hannibal, and his adherentes. desiring to have the city pardoned of this offence, syns they trusted, that the Romans would not desire their destruction, but that they would be contented with their humble submission, as of people overcome, which would be glad to obey to any thing that he should command them to do. To whom Scipio answered, that his coming into Africa was upon trust, to return home again to Rome with victory, not to conclude with peace, which his hope, fortune also favouring, had much advanced by prosperous success. Nevertheless (said he) now 〈…〉 victory almost in my hands, yet will I not refuse p●ace, to th'intent all men may know, that the Romans do ●●stly both begin & end their warr●●▪ And these shallbe the conditions of your peace. ye shall restore us all your prisoners, and our fugitive run aways. ye shall remove your armies out of Italy and France. ye shall forbear to meddle any more in Spain. ye shall depart from all the Isles, which be between Italy and Africa. ye shall deliver us all your long ships, except only twenty ye shall give us of wheat .v. C. M. bushels, of barley iii C. M. bushels, of money .v. M. talentes. And three days respite I do give you (said he) to take your advise, whether these conditions of peace please you or not. And in case ye be contented with them, ye shall have truce of me, and send your ambassadors to Rome to the senate, for a confirmation of the same.  
¶ The Carthaginenses, minding only to tract the time till Hannibal with his power might come into Africa, thought they would refuse no conditions of peace, that were demanded to be done for their parts. Wherefore they sent some legates unto Scipio, to take truce, other they sent to Rome, to ask peace, leading with them certain prisoners and fugitives for a colour, to the intent they might thereby the better obteygne peace.  
¶ Whiles these things were working, Lelius with king Syphax, and other noblemen prisoners of Numidia, were come to Rome. Where he declared to the senators by order all things which had been done in Africa, to their great comfort and also hope of good end of that voyage.  
¶ Then were these news published abroad in the city, which caused great joy and gladness.  
¶ soon after were the ambassadors of Massanissa brought into the senate, where first they said, They were glad and joyful, that Scipio had nobly and happily sped in Africa, to the no small comfort of the senate, and also of the city of Rome: Than did they give thanks for that Scipio had not only given to Massanissa the name of a king, but also had made him a king, restoring him to his father's kingdom, if it were the pleasure of the fathers of the senate. Thirdly, that it pleased Scipio, not only to give great praises to Massanissa openly, but also that he had given him great gifts, which to deserve he hath and will diligently endeavour himself, desiring that the said name of a king, with other the beneficial gifts of Scipio, might be confirmed by the decree of the senate: And furthermore they said, that if it might stand with their pleasure, Massanissa desired them, to send unto him certain prisoners of Numidia, which were kept in prison at Rome: by the restoring of whom, he should purchas moche honour and love among the communes of the country. To these their sayings and demands, it was then answered by the senate, that the prosperous acts of Scipio, done in Africa, were as much to their comfort, as to the kings. And that the honour and the gifts, which Scipio had given to Massanissa, were well bestowed, and according as he had well deserved: which his acts they all did ratify and allow: Besides which his gifts, they also sent unto Massanissa the king, by them, divers other presents of apparel, meet to be worn both in the time of peace and of war. Furthermore, the ambassadors of the king were honourably rewarded. The prisoners also of Numidia, at their delivery & sending home, had certain apparel given them. And thus plentifully enriched, they had all departed towards Africa, had not the news of the coming of the legates of Carthage caused the senators to stay Lelius and them all for a season, to tarry their coming, because the communication of the peace with them, should be in the presence of Lelius.   

¶ Mago is discomfited by the Romans, and wounded, of which wound he dieth, Hannibal by the commandment of the senate leaveth Italy, and saileth toward Carthage, making great doole for his departing. ca lxvii.  
IN the same Summer, whiles these things were wrought and decreed in Africa, and at Rome, Quintilius Varro, than being Praetor, and Marcus Cornelius, being Proconsul in the costs of Lombary, had battle with Mago the brother of Hannibal, which was earnestly fought on both parts: and had not the Roman horsemen suddenly invaded the footmen, sore fighting, and broken their array, it had been likely to have turned the Romans to the worse. But after the array was broken, they were fain to recoil: And Mago so well handled himself in the reculing, that so long as he abode unhurt, he defended his company, and caused them to recoil in good order and array. But at the last he was sore wounded, and fell to the ground, and with pain was borne out of the field alyne. After whose overthrow his people fled on all parts, whereby many of them were slain. He lost at that battle above .v. M. men. And the Romans escaped not free: for they also lost then above ii M. iii. C. men, with many captains that bore offices of honour. The night following Mago departed with great silence, and making as great hasty journeys as his wound would suffer him, he came to the sea costs of Liguria, where he found the messengers of Carthage, that few days before were arrived, and there abode his coming. Their message was, that with as much speed as might be, he should high him to Africa. and that his brother Hannibal had also like commandment by other messengers to do the same, certifying him, that the state of Carthage was not now such, that they were able to keep still both Italy and France by force of arms. Mago partly moved by the commandment of the senate of Carthage, partly fearing left his enemies, pursuing him, might by his long carrying do him further displeasure. Again, trusting on his way homewards to be better relieved and cured of his wounds: he with speed put his company into ships, and departed. But he had not passed the isle of Sardinia: but he died of his malady. After whose death, divers of his ships, being beaten with the storms of the sea, were taken by the navy of the Romans, that lay the same time about Sardinia.  
All this year Hannibal, and Cn. Seruslius the consul, lay both with their hosts in the parties of the Brutians, without any memorable battle between them fought. And than came the legates of Carthage unto him, calling him home to Carthage to their succours, whose message he heard roaring and lamenting, and with pain could he forbear weeping. And after a pause he said: Now they openly call me back, that before covertly imagined to fetch me from hence, in that they denied for to send me money and men of war, to supply the rooms of such as lacked.  
Wherefore I would all men did know, that the vanquishing now of Hannibal is not by the people of Rome: but by the senate of Carthage, through despite and 〈◊〉. And of this my shameful return, Scipio will no more rejoice, than will Hanno of Carthage, the old enemy of my whole family.  
¶ After great doleful moan made, he took the sea himself, and his chief men of war, with ships therefore prepared: leaving certain unprofitable soldiers, as a defence of such small fortresses as remained than in his possession, more for fear than for any good will or faith.  
¶ It hath not lightly been seen or heard of, that ever man departed from his country (being exiled therefro) with more heaviness, than Hannibal departed from the country of his enemies. Full often, when he was on the sea, he looked back towards the sea costs of Italy, accusing both the God's & also men, ye and cursing himself, for that he after his victory at the battle of Cannas, had not incontinent brought his fierce and bloody knights to the taking of Rome. Thus bewailing his evil fortune, he left the possession of Italy, which he had kept the space of xvi years after that he first passed the mountains of the same.   

¶ Hannibal arriveth in Africa, and desireth to speak with Scipio, which he granteth him, and thereupon they mere at a place appointed. Capit. lxviii.  
Now was Q. Fuluius silo, the legate of Scipio come to Rome, with the ambassadors of Carthage, to require peace of the fathers of the senate. But the senators would not suffer them to enter the city, but appointed them to abide with out the walls. The senators soon after sat in the house of Bellona, whither the Carthaginenses legates were brought, and there made an oration, moche like to the other, which they before made unto Scipio, laying all the blame from the common counsel unto Hannibal: saying, that he, without the consent of the senate of Carthage, passed both the mountains and also the river of Iberus, making war not only to the Romans, upon his own will and pleasure, but also to the Saguntines. Where the mind of the Senate of Carthage was ever, to keep the league and amitieinuiolate, which was taken before with the romans. In conclusion they declared, that the sum of their charge given them, to desire of the senate of Rome, was, that they might continue in the same league and conditions of amity and peace with the Romans, as were before at the last truce taken with them by Luctatius, than being consul.  
¶ Then divers of the ancient Senators of Rome, which were present at the league taken by Luctatius, demanded sundry questions of the legates of Carthage, concerning the said condition of peace, contained in that league. Whereunto they, being all young men, answered, that they were not of age to remember that treaty. This answer was greatly suspected of the fathers. Wherefore they said with one assent, that the Carthaginenses, according to their old accustomed craft and falsehood, had chosen such ambassadors, to require a peace to be renewed, whereof they had no knowledge nor remembrance. whereupon the legates were caused to avoid the place, whiles they counseled upon the matter. And after long deliberate discussing thereof, Lelius and Fuluius declared to them the opinion of Scipio, touching this peace, which was, that he did not mislike the meaning of the Carthaginenses, in case they did not send to call home Hannibal and Mago out of Italy: but if they so did, than he thought they would dissemble the matter unto their captains coming with succours, and afterward forgetting their promise, would renew the war. Upon these words the whole counsel agreed to the saying of M. Valerius Levinus, who said, that they were to be taken as espies, and not as ambassadors, and that they should be commanded to avoid Italy, having guides sent with them, to conduct them unto their ships. And that word should be sent to Scipio, to proceed in the war as he had begun.  
¶ Now in the mean space, whiles the legates of Scipio and of Carthage, were at Rome, Cn. Octavius, with ii C. ships of carriage, and xxx other long ships, to guide them, passed from Sicilia, to go into Africa: but the winds were so vehement, & the storms so importunate, that he with the long ships, with pain saved himself in a port near to the mountain of Apollo. The other hulks of carriage were driven to divers places on the cost of Africa, in the sight of the men of Carthage. The Carthaginenses perceiving this great pray easy to be taken, forgetting their desire of peace, and also the time of truce taken with Scipio (yet mention of them both was made to them by certain of the city) they by hole assent appointed Asdrubal, with thirty ships to gather together, and to bring home those seabeaten & disparpled ships, with all that was in them. At whose coming the shypmennes fled away, leaving their vessels: and he without any resistance drew them with him to Carthage. Scipio considering this their act to be done, before the legates were returned from Rome, or that they knew what answer they should receive, either of war or of peace. Also seeing the time of truce was not yet expired, took it to be moche more heinous and displeasant.  
¶ soon after this break of truce on the part of the Carthaginenses, arrived Lelius and Fuluius, with the legates of Carthage, to whom Scipio, declaring their untrue dealing, commanded them to depart, and he with all speed prepared for the war.  
¶ This year following were chosen consuls, M. Servilius Geminus, and T. Claudius Nero. Servilius was appointed to Hetruria, as his province: and Claudius Nero to Africa. He had ordained thirty good ships, wherewith he and his host should pass into Africa, where he should be equal ruler with Scipio.  
¶ NOW WAS Hannibal, with his army, arrived safe in Africa, and by land came to Zama, five days journey from Carthage. From thence sent he espies before him, to know the state of the Roman camp and army. These spies by chance happened on the skoute watch of the Romans, and were taken and brought to Scipio. Who demanded of them the cause why their captain sent them thither. They answered, to espy and to have knowledge of his army and order. Then Scipio called certain of his captains, called tribunes, commanding them to go with the espies of Hannibal, and to conduct them through all his camp, not fearing to show them, what so ever they desired to see: When they had gone round about a long season, and were brought again to him, he demanded of them, whether they had well, according to their minds, viewed his camp and host. They said ye. Then said he: Go ye to Hannibal, and make to him relation of that ye have seen. Thus let he them depart, sending with them guides to conduct them out of danger.  
¶ The spies, when they came to Hannibal, declared unto him, how Scipio had entreated them. Besides that they showed him, that Massanissa the same day was come to Scipio, with vi M footmen, and four M. horsemen. But there was nothing, that ever they told him, so much abated his courage, as the liberty that he gave his espies, to view his order and power. For that great boldness of his enemy he judged and knew well proceeded of some great assurance, that he had in his strength and good order. Wherefore although he himself was the first cause and occasion, both of the war and also of the truce breaking: yet he devised himself, to speak with Scipio, thinking before any battle, whiles his power was not assayed, he should obtain peace with more easy conditions, than he should, in case it chanced him to be overcome. Wherefore he sent a messenger to Scipio, desiring that he might have liberty to speak with him, and that he would appoint a place, where they might come together. Scipio refused not to accomplish his desire. The place was appointed, void of all deceit and guile. Thither came the ii most noble captains of the world, having only each of them one interpreter with him, to declare to each other, what should be spoken by them. Their hosts abode a good space from them. When they were come together, either of them was astonished with the fight of the other: So that as persons amazed through admiration, they spoke no word of a good season. At the last Hannibal began to speak in manner following.   

¶ The witty oration that Hannibal made to Scipio, before the battle between them. Cap. lxix.  
IF it be given me by the fatal fortune, that I which first moved this war against the people of Rome, & that so many times have had the victory over them, should now of mine own voluntary will come to be a suitor to have peace: I am glad, that it is thy chance Scipio, to be the man appointed of the gods, of whom I should come to require the same peace. And among many other praises, that be given unto thee, this may be as one of the greatest: That Hannibal, to whom the gods have given so many victories of the Romans, should now give place and obey unto the. So that thou mayst make an end of this notable war, that hath been between us, as yet more to your loss then to ours. Again, what work is this of fortune, that I which first fought with your father, being consul, in arms, with banners displayed, should now come to his son unarmed, for to sue for peace? I would it had pleased the gods, to have given such honest hearts to our fathers and predecessors, that they would have been contented with the dominion of Africa, and to your fathers to have been contented with the empire of Rome. For if we make a true reckoning, neither Sicilia, nor Sardinia, be a worthy recompense of the manifold navies, armies, and noble capitains, that we have lost, through our proud contention. But it is easier to find fault with things that be passed: than it is to amend the same. And for our parts we have so coveted others dominions, that at length we have been fain to fight for our own. We have for our part not only warred in Italy, but also so far advanced our host and power, that at the very gates of Rome ye have seen our standards, and men of arms. And in like manner we of Carthage have been within the hearing of the noise of your Roman camps and army. Now by your good fortune, communication of peace is had betweners, which we of reason should least care for: And ye for your parts should chiefly desire. And we now entreat thereof, whom it most behoveth to make peace. considering that what so ever we two agree upon, our cities will ratyfye and coufyrme. Wherefore there lacketh nothing in us, but quiet minds and peaceable hearts. And for my part mine age upon my return into my country, from whence I came forth but young, with the times sometime changing to prosperity, sometime to adversity, have so taught me, that I can be better contented, to follow reason then brittle fortune. But I fear greatly, lest thy youth and thy perpetual felicine, engender in the such a fyersenesse, that thou wilt not regard quiet counsel. No man shall so advysedlye consider the uncertain chances of Fortune, as he that hath been deceived by Fortune: as I was at the battle of Trasymenus and at Cannas, so art thou now being but a young soldier of age, made a captain the first day. Thou beganst all things with a bold and a stout courage, and fortune never failed thee, throughethy desire to revenge thy fathers and thine uncles death (whereby all your family was almost brought to extreme calamity) thou hast purchased the a noble fame. Thou haste received Spain, that was before lost, driving from that country four notable armies of the Carthaginenses, that before did possess the same. afterward being made consul, when other men lacked hearts to defend Italy, their own country, thou tookest on the to sail into Africa: where slaying two great hosts, and in one hour taking and burning two rich and strong camps: And after the taking of the mighty king Syphax, with many cities and castles of his realm, and of our empire of Carthage: at the last thou haste now plucked me from the possession of Italy: which these xvi years I have with strong hand kept and enjoyed. Now having all these prosperous chances, it is like, that thy mind may be more desirous of victory, then of peace. And truly I have known yours and such like hearts and courages, to be ever more great and valiant, then wise and profitable. The days also have been, that fortune did in like manner shine bright and smile upon me. But if the gods would give us in prosperity good and right minds: we would not only consider things that have happened, but also what might happen unto us. And setting all other examples apart, I myself may be best a document of learning unto thee, for all kinds of fortune. I had not long agone mine host encamped between the river of Amenes and the city of Rome, and displayed my banners before the walls of the city: Now after the loss of my two brethren, which were full good and noble captains, I am here to secure mine own troubled & sore vexed country, glad and desirous to pray, that mine own city may be delivered from the dangers, wherewith I assailed then your city. Let no man put to much confidence in high and swelling fortune. Better it is, and more certain, to be sure of peace, then to hope for victory. The one thou hast now in thine own hands: the other is in the hand of the gods. Put not the felicity, which in many years thou hast ●tteigned, into one hours jeopardy. Call to thy mind, both thine own power, and the power of fortune: which in war is common. On both parts be men and weapons of war. And consider, that chances be variable in all our affairs, specially in battle. And in case thou vanquish us in battle, thou shalt not win so moche glory and profit, above that thou mayst have of us by peace: as thou shalt lose, in case fortune turn against the. For in one hour fortune may overthrow, that in long space hath been gotten, and also that is looked for, which ye trust to have. Now it is in thy power, to join all things together by peace P. Cornelius. But if it come to further trial, we must both take such fortune as the gods will send. Among other examples of felicity, Marcus Attilius may be well remembered for one, who arrived here in this same country of Africa, and winning the victory upon our forefathes the Carthaginenses, denied to grant them peace, which they instantly required of him. But at the last, for that he could not measure his felicity, nor moderate Fortune, that so highly advanced him: therefore his fall was the fowler, by how much he was the more higher elevate in prosperity. It belongeth not to him that asketh peace, but to him that giveth peace, to appoint the conditions of peace: But we knowledging our default, will appoint to ourselves condign punishment for the same, not refusing to leave unto you the possession of such countries, for which the war began, as Sicilia, Sardinia, Spain, and all the Isles within the sea, between italy and Africa. And we of Carthage, being contented with Africa only (sense it hath so pleased the gods) will suffer you to enjoy the Empire of diverse strange countries and dominions, gotten both by sea and by land. Peradventure in the asking of peace heretofore ye have not been plainly and justly dealt withal, which causeth you to mistrust the faith and promise of the Carthaginenses. But therein, as touching the observing of peace when it is taken, it is moche to be considered, what the persons be, by whom the peace is required. For as I have hard it told Scipio, your fathers heretofore denied the Carthaginenses peace, for that the persons, that came to entreat therefore, were of small dignity or estimation. But now do I Hannibal require peace, which I would not desire, unless I thought it profitable, and for the same profit that I do demand it, for the same will I also still keep and conserve it. And as I have endeavoured myself, that no man should forethynke him of the war begun through mine occasion: in like manner shall I now enforce myself, that none shall repent of the peace, which I shall take. His oration finished, Scipio made him thereunto this answer.   

¶ The answer of Scipio to the oration of Hannibal, with the battle thereupon had between them, wherein Hannibal was vanquished and put to flight. Ca lxx.  
I knew right well Hannibal, that the trust of thy coming home, made the Carthaginenses to break the truce between us taken, and also to let all further hope of peace. And this thou dost not deny thyself: but thou now withdrawest from us all things that we require, and were also granted in that treatise of peace, save only those countries, whereof we have already the possession. Wherefore as thou dost labour, that thy citizens may feel of what burden they be discharged by thee: so must I travail, that no part of that, which they have promised me, shall be now withdrawn, for to remain unto them as a reward of their untruth, considering the same their untruth, hath made them unworthy to have the conditions of peace before to them offered. Neither did our father first make war for Sicilia, nor we now for spain: But than the danger, wherein the Mamertines our friends and fellows were put into: and now the destruction of Sagunt, caused us justly to make war. That all hath been by your provocation, thou hast confessed thyself. The God's also be witnesses, who gave such end to the first war, as of right it behoved to have. And in this war have given: and I doubt not, but will give like end. As for my part, I consider well, both the infirmity of man, and the power of fortune: and I know, that all our acts be subject to a. M. chances. But as I do knowledge, that in case thou wouldest have come to desire peace of me, before I took so grettravaile, to come into Africa, and that thou hadst with thy good will departed with thine army out of Italy: if I had then denied thy request, I might well have been judged, to have wrought proudly and stubbornly. Even so now after that I have drawn the and thy power home into Africa, where thou art ready to make us resistance: And seeing that a peace and truce was once taken, which ye have broken, taking our ships with force in time of truce, and violating our ambassadors: I may right well with honour, bid you prepare for the war, sens you could not hold you contented with peace, when ye had it.  
Thus without any agreement of peace, the ii capytaines broke of their communication, and departed every one to his company, determining to try the matter by battle, and to take such fortune as the God's would give them.  
¶ As soon as they were come into their camps, they openly on both parts gave commandment to their soldiers, to make them ready to fight now their last battle, whereby in case they did overcome, they should have felicity, not for one day, but for ever. For before the next night, they should know, whether Rome or Carthage should have the superiority. And that not only of italy or of Africa: but of all the world, which should be a reward now to him, that should have the victory. On the contrary part, the peril and jeopardy was no less declared to that part, which should have the worse in this battle. For the Romans had no place, whether to fly, being in a strange country. And to Carthage must needs come an utter destruction, in case this their last army of refuge were vanquished or overthrown.  
¶ In this great jeopardy on the next day the ii valiant captains of the two most noble and richest people, set forth with their ii mighty armies: intending that day, either to increase the honour, which before they had gotten, or else to be overthrown and lose all. Hoop and fear were mingled both together in their minds. And when they saw their own battle, and the battle of their enemies: they conceived in their minds both joy and sorrow. And that that the soldiers failed to remember, their captains declared unto them, with great warnings and exhortations. Hannibal rehearsed to his people all their acts done in Italy: how many Roman capitains, and how many armies they had slain. Scipio showed his conquests in Spain, and also of late in Africa, with the confession of his enemies, that they for fear were constrained to require peace: although their untruth would not suffer them to keep the same, when they had it. Wherefore he guessed, that the God's had appointed them to fight in this battle, with like success and luck, as they had when they fought at the isle of Egates. Now (said he) all war & travail is at an end. The spoil of Carthage is even at hand, after which ye shall return home in to your country, to your parents, your wives, your children, and your own goods. These comfortable words he set forth, with such gesture of his body, and merry countenance, as though he had all ready had the victory of his enemies. Afterward he put his men in order. First his spearemen, than his chief and most assured footmen, not in great multitudes together before any standard, but in small bands, which should be a certain space distant the one from the other, to the intent the elephants of their enemies might come between the said bands, and be received of them, without breaking any array. In these void spaces between the said bands, he appointed divers of his lightest harnessed soldiers to stand, to fulfil the void places, commanding them, that when the elephants pressed on them, that they should recoil behind the said bands, which were in array, or else to step in among those that went before the standards, on their right hand, or on their left hand, giving way to the unruly beasts to enter among his men, where with weapons they might be wounded and overthrown. The left wing led Lelius with the italian horsemen. The right wing led Massanissa with his Numidians.  
¶ Hannibal on the other part, in the forefront of his battle, set his elephants, which were to the numbered of lxxx After whom he put in order all such nations as were hired, or came to his succour, as Liguriens, frenchmen, and men of the Isles named Baleares, now called Maiorque and Minorque, mingled among a great numbered of Moors. In the second battle he set his Carthaginenses, with the africans, and the legion of the Lacedæmonians, sent thither to the succours of the Carthaginenses from Philip king of Macedome. And within a little space of from them, he placed the Italians, which came with him, when he left that country. The wings were of horsemen. The left wing held the Numidian horsemen. The right wing was of the Carthaginenses. In this host of Annibal were men of divers nations & countries, of divers tongues and languages, they were also different in laws, armour, and in aparaile. To every one of these he gave sundry and divers exhortations, either of fear, or of comfort. To such as were come to his succours he promised great reward of the pray, which should be won by their industry and travail. To the Liguriens he promised a plentiful reward of the fertile and pleasant fields in Italy. The Moors and Numidians he exhorted to do well, for fear lest they should else be in grievous servitude of Massanissa. The frenchmen were set on by the natural hatred, which they bore to the Romans. The Carthaginenses he put in remembrance to fight for the walls of their natural country, for their proper goods, for the sepulchres of their elders, for their children, their parents and trembling wives. There is no mean way (said he) now to be put between hope and fear. For either must we suffer miserable servitude, after the destruction of our city and country, or else obtain the empire of all the world.  
¶ By that time this noble capitain had finished his words: the Romans blewe up their trumpets and horns, making so terrible a noise and clamour, that a great numbered of the elephants, being furious, turned back upon their company, specially upon the left wing of the Moors and Numidians. Which perceived well Massanissa, wherefore he also invaded the same wing with his horsemen, putting them to such fear, that they fled, leaving that side of the host bore of succour. divers of the elephants by force were constrained to enter the middle battle, to whom anon the light armed soldiers gave place, suffering them to entre among them, where they were thrust in with spears & innelyns, so that many were there slain. During this while, Lelius with his horsemen assailed the right wing of the horsemen of Carthage, puttig them also to slight: so that the body of the host was of both sides left without defence of horsemen, the wings being chased away: than began the battle of footmen to be strong on both parts. Great were the cries that were there made: but the Romans were of better courage, of stronger hope, & of more strength. wherefore in a short space, they caused their enemies to give back a certain space of ground. And when they had once gotten some ground, they with their shyeldes and targets came still thrusting on their enemies, bearing them back, till some soon after the first battle, turning their backs, began to fly, and came to the second battle of the Carthaginenses and Moors, who would not suffer them to enter, lest they should cause all their array to be broken. Wherefore between them and their own fellows began great debate and slaughter: so that the Carthaginenses were constrained to fight, both with their own unruly fellows, and also with the Romans their enemies. Nevertheless they would in no wise receive their fellows that fled in among them, lest they should mengle that fearful sort, which in the flight were hurt and wounded, among them that were earnestly bend to fight: Which might have turned moche more to their displeasure. But driving them away by heaps, compelled them to go together, some into the one side of them, some abroad the fields. Great was the occision that was made of them, in so much that the Romans could not come to fight with the Carthaginenses: but first they must with pain go over the dead bodies of them that were slain. Then Scipio caused a trumpet to be blown, to withdraw his men of the first battle, who had been sore travailed, and many of them were sore wounded. These caused he to stand behind the rearward, and made the same rearward of his best men to advance forward upon the Carthaginenses. Then began the battle new again: which was very sore and fierce. For than came the Romans to the most assured and strongest men, and most expert in wars, who before being vanquished twice, were now loath and ashamed to be vanquished. But the Romans were far moin number, and had taken to them a great courage, by driving away both the wings, and also the forward of their enemies.  
¶ Whiles they thus fought in the second battle, Lelius and Massanissa returned with their horsemen from the chase of the wings of the Carthaginenses: and with all their power and violence came on the backs of the second battle of the Carthaginenses, which were busy and valiantly fought. Then were they not able to endure their violence, but were with force put to flight and slain on all parts. There were that day slain and taken of the Carthaginenses about xl M men. Many elephants, and many standards of noble men were taken in that battle. Great also was the pray of the spoil found in the Camp, which all the Romans took and brought to their ships. The Romans also lost at this battle above ten M. men. Hannibal, with a few with him, fled to Adrument: But he never departed from the field, till he had both in the battle and before, assayed to do asmuch as was possible for to be done, for the safeguard of his people. Wherein he that day had praise both of Scipio, & of all other expert men of war of the Romans: specially for the ordering of his battle. For first he set in the forefront his great number of elephants, whose great strength and intolerable violence should break the array of the Romans, putting them out of order, which is half the winning of a battle. Then set he foremost his hired soldiers of divers nations: to the intent such a confused number of strangers (who fought for no great faith or love, but only for money) should have no place nor time to flee from the battle. Also to the intent such strangers should endure the first violence of his enemies, making them weary and weak, before his chief men of most trust should have any thing to do. Then after them were his Carthaginenses and Africans, his most trusty soldiers. Last of all a good space behind them, he placed his italians, as people whom he knew not well, whether they should be his friends or his foes. Thus when all his policy would not serve him, nor yet his strength could help, he fled (as I said before) to Adrument: and from thence he was sent for to come to Carthage.  
Whither he came the xxxvi year after his departing from thence, being but a child. There in the open assemble of the noble men of the city he confessed himself to be vanquished; and that there was none other hope of safeguard for them, but by obtaining of peace.   

¶ The conditions of peace granted to the Carthaginenses by Scipio: and the ratyfyeng of the same by the senate. Ca lxxi.  
AS Scipio and his host were coming to his ships, laden with a rich pray, word was brought him, that P. Lentulus was arrived at Utica, with l ships of war, and an. C. hulks laden with all manner of provision.  
Wherefore Scipio, thinking to put the city of Carthage in fear on all parts: first sent Lelius to Rome, to bear news of his victory. And then sent Cn. Octavius by land toward Carthage, with his army of horsemen and footmen. Whiles he, taking with him both the new navy of ships, brought him by Lentulus, and also his old navy, went by sea from Utica towards the haven of Carthage. He had but a while sailed on the sea, when a ship of Carthage met him, covered all with white linen cloth, and full of bows of Olive, in token of peace. In which ship were ten ambassadors of the princes of Carthage, sent by the mind of Hannibal to desire peace. When this ship was come to the fore part of Scipiosship, the covering was taken away, and the legates right humbly required him to extend his mercy and pity upon them. But other answer had they none given them, but that they should come to him to Tunes, for to that place he said he would remove his camp. With this answer they departed: and he went with his navy of ships before Carthage, partly to view the situation of the town, partly to make the inhabitants there of the more afraid. But after small soiourninge there, he departed from thence, and returned to Utica: And from thence was going to Tunes, when sudden news were brought him, that Vermina, the son of Syphax, with a great numbered of horsemen and footmen, was coming to the succours of the Carthaginenses. To encounter with these people, Scipio incontinent sent a good part of the footmen of his host, and all his horsemen, who meeting with them, at their first reencountre put them to flight, and stopping the passages, whereby they might by fleinge escape, they slew of the numidians xu M. and took above xii C. with many horses of that country, to the numbered of xv. C. and with pain the captain himself escaped, having a small numbered with him. From thence the camp was pitched at Tunes, in the old place, where they before had set it. Thither came xxx noble men of Carthage ambassadors, sent unto Scipio, who with moche more lamentation than the other had done before, required peace of Scipio, constrained more thereunto through the contrariety of Fortune, and by the late overthrow of their friend Vermina: And they were likewise heard with less pity, because of their late untruth and rebellion. In so much that it was thought by most men, that the city of Carthage might then justly and worthily be destroyed by them. And so had it been in deed, had not one thing specially moved Scipio to the contrary. Which was, that the new consul was coming thither, whose desire was, to have the honour and fame of that victory, and of fynishinge that war, which was before achieved by Scipios travail, to his great danger. And for this cause Scipio and his counsellors were fully minded to take peace with the Carthaginenses. Wherefore the next day he called the legates of Carthage before him, greatly rebuking them of the untruth to him divers times showed: Willing them now at the last, being taught by good experience, to regard both their gods and their oaths, and shewing them, that he, having pity of the destruction of them and of their so noble a city, was contented to grant them peace upon these conditions. first, that they should live free after their own laws and customs, enjoying all such cities and towns in Africa, as they had in possession before the war between them taken. And that from that day forth, the Romans should no more destroy or spoil any part thereof. Again, the Carthaginenses should restore to the Romans all such persons as were fled and run away from the romans, and all the prisoners of the Romans, and their friends, whom they had in captivity. Also that they should deliver them all their ships of war, and other ships, except only galeys, having three orders of oores in a piece. And that they should also deliver up all their elephants, which were already tamed and made apt for the war: neither should they after tame any more. Again, that they should move no war in Africa, nor without Africa, but by the licence or commandment of the Romans. Furthermore, that they should restore unto Massanissa all such things as they had taken of his, making a peace and agreement with him. And also yield unto the Roman host wheat and wages unto the return of the legates from Rome. Besides all this, they should pay ten M. talents of silver in fifty years: during which time, they should yearly pay that sum, divided in even portions. For the payment whereof, and performance of these conditions, they should deliver him an. C. pledges of his own election. Whereof none should be under th'age of xiiii years, neither above th'age of xxx Upon these conditions, he agreed to give them truce: so that they would deliver to him out of hand all such hulks or ships of burden, with their fraught and implements, which the Carthaginenses took from them, during the last time of truce, that he had before granted them: Or else they should neither look for truce nor for peace.  
¶ When the legates were come to Carthage, they were commanded to declare the same conditions of peace openly before the congregation of the people thereunto assembled. Against which conditions one Gysgo, a noble man of Carthage, spoke very sore, and would have dissuaded the people from the taking of peace. To whose sayings many of the unruly multitude gave good audience. But Annibal, being therewith greatly moved, went to him, and with force drew him down from his place. Which his violent fashion had not been used before in that city, and was thought of divers to be contrary to the liberty of their city: where before all people had free liberty to speak their opinions: Annibal being used to the fashion of the wars, more than to the peaceable use of the city: remembering the liberties thereof, excused his rudeness in this manner. When I departed from this city, I was but ix years old, which is now xxxvi years agone: during which time I have sufficiently known and been instructed in all feats of war, being taught by the chances of fortune, even from my childhood. Wherefore being disused so long space from the laws, manners, and customs of the city, although I do forget the liberties and uses thereof, I am the less to be blamed. Thus after he had excused his folly, he persuaded the people to the taking of peace, and how necessary it was now for them, and also how reasonable the conditions were, considering their present estate. To which his persuasions the greatest part of the multitude agreed, and the resisters against it, were greatly blamed. The greatest doubt was, how they might make restitution of that that was taken from the Romans in the time of truce. For all was spoiled and gone, neither knew they, who bad them, only the ships and hulks remaygned. But in conclusion, word was sent again to Scipio, by the same legates, that they would receive his conditions of peace. And where they could not know, who had the goods that were in the hulks: they would pay therefore at his own judgement. The vessels and men should be restored.  
¶ Thus was the truce given to the city of Carthage for three months, with a commandment, that during the time of truce, they should send ambassadors to no place, but only to Rome. And in case that any ambassadors were sent from any place to Carthage, that they should in no wise departed from thence, until the Roman captain were ascertained what they were, and what was the cause of their coming.  
¶ Soon after went the legates of Carthage to Rome: with whom were sent C. Veturius Philo, M. Martius Valla, and Lucius Scipio, brother to P. Scipio the roman captain.  
¶ When they were come thither, L. Veturius Philo declared, how Scipio had fought with Hannibal, and overcome the Carthaginenses, to their utter confusion, making now an end of the doleful long war, that had been between the Romans and them. And that also Vermina, the son of Syphax, with his power, was beaten and overcome. Of which news the senators being marvelous joyful, commanded him to publish the same glad tidings, to the whole multitude of the citizens. Who making great joy, gave thanks for the victory to the God's. Than were the legates of Carthage brought into the senate. And when the senators beheld the age, the dignity, and the gravity of the ambassadors (who were of the most noble men of the city of Carthage) than they judged, that they intended plainly and sincerely to entreat of peace. Among other of these nobles of Carthage, there was one Asdrubal, called Hedus, one of the chief of them, both in authority and in nobility: who was ever desirous of peace, and held moche against Hannibal and his affinity. This Asdrubal said, that a few covetous persons of the city were culpable for this war, and not the commonalty. Some faults, which were laid to them, he excused: some other he confessed, lest by the denying of all, he might be the worse heard of the senate. Than he persuaded the Senators to use their prosperous fortune gently, and in due temperance, professing ever, that in case the Carthaginenses would have followed the minds of him, and of Hanno, taking the time when it was offered: that they had been the givers to other of peace, upon such conditions as they were now glad to take at others hands. But (said he) it is but seldom seen, that good fortune and a good mind be given both at ones to men. The cause of the conquests of you Romans ever chief hath been, for that in prosperity ye have had the remembrance to consult of things to come. And your empire hath been more increased by gentleness and favour showed to nations, whom ye have vanquished, than it hath been by the victories gotten on them.  
¶ After that Asdrubal had finished his oration, the other ambassadors made moche more lamentable propositions, bewailing the miserable fall of the state of the Carthaginenses, who being the greatest lords in honour of the world, were now constrained to abide enclosed within the walls of the city, having nothing else, that they might claim property of. ye and that same only city they held, but upon the goodness and forbearing of the Romans, whiles their pleasure was, to forbear the utter destruction thereof. With these humble and gentle words, the senators universally were fully inclined to peace. Than one of the senators spoke out with loud voice: If peace be granted to the Carthaginenses, by what God's shall they swear, and make peace, when they have broken promise, and deceived the God's, by whom they swore, when they last took peace with us: To whom the said Asdrubal answered, even by the same God's will we swear, who be so angry, and are revenged on us, that broke our last truce and league. Hereupon all the senators and the commons, being inclined to peace, determined, that by th'advise of ten legates of Rome, P. Scipio should make with them the peace, upon such conditions as to him seemed best. The legates were named, and made them ready to departed with the Carthaginenses. For the which the ambassadors gave great thanks to the senate, of their goodness to them showed: desiring them before their departing, to licence them to enter the city, and to visit certain of their friends and kinsmen, that were kept in the city, as prisoners. which request was granted them. And they desired also, that they might redeem divers of them upon reasonable ransom. They were commanded to write the names of such as they would have redeemed. And they named ii C. of them, who incontinent were delivered to the x. legates, to take with them into Africa to Scipio, willing him, in case the peace went forwards with the Carthaginenses: that then he should render these ii C. prisoners to the Carthaginenses, free without paying any ransom. These things being so concluded, the Carthaginenses, with the Roman legates, departed towards Africa. And when they came to Scipio they concluded the peace with him upon the conditions before specified. The ships of Carthage, the elephants, the fugitives and prisoners, to the numbered of four M. were delivered to Scipio: among whom was one Terentius culeo, a notable senator of Rome. The ships, upon the delivery of them, were had forth into the sea, to the numbered of .v. C. of all sorts: and there by the commandment of Scipio were set all on fire. Which bourninge was as sorrowful a sight to the Carthaginenses, as if they had seen the whole city of Carthage on fire.   

¶ Scipio teturneth to Rome with great triumph and joy of all the people. Cap. lxxii.  
THus ended the wars between the Romans and the Carthaginenses, more gently than it was thought it should have done. For Scipio divers times after reported, that the conctouse and high mind, first of Claudius Nero, and after of Cu. Cornelius, desiring both the honour of the victory of Carthage, was the cause, that the city of Carthage was not utterly destroyed and wasted. After the said peace thus taken, the money, which should be presently paid to the Romans, was very grievous to the Carthaginenses. Whose stock and common substance was before greatly wasted, by reason of the long continual wars. Wherefore at the levying of the said sum of their private substance, great lamentation and weeping was made in the city. Which Hannibal beholding, could not forbear to laugh. Whereat Asdrubal Hedus took great indignation, rebuking him, for that he (being the very original cause of all their sorrow) in the common mourning of the city, should so laugh. Thereunto Hannibal answered: If ye might behold the inward thought of my mind, as ye may the outward apparent countenance of my face, ye should perceive this laughter not to come of any joy of the heart, but of a madness and a frenzy. Never the less this my laughter is not so inordinate, nor cometh not so out of time, as your tears do. For you should have wept, when your armour was taken from you, and your ships burned before your eyes: and when your liberty of making of wars with any stranger (but only by licence of the Romans) was taken from you. wherein rested your chief undoing and greatest fall. But ye feel no hurt, unless it touch your private wealth. The great hurt of the common wealth ye neither feel nor regard. When your enemies had the great spoil, after the victory had, and when Carthage remained alone, and naked without armour or defence, among so many armed men of Africa: Then no man wept nor mourned. But now, when ye must pay the tribute of your own private goods: every man weepeth, as ye would do at the burienge of all your friends. I fear it sore, that ye shall shortly perceive, that ye wept now in your least harms, and the worst to be behind.  
¶ When the peace was thus concluded, between the Romans and the Carthaginenses, Scipio, calling his people together, besides that he restored unto Massanissa his father's kingdom: He also gave him the city of Cyrtha, and other towns and grounds that he had won of Syphax. afterward he caused Cn. Octavius, to deliver to Cn. Cornelius, the new consul, his navy that he brought into Sicilia. Then caused he the ambassadors of Carthage to go towards Rome, there to have all things confirmed by the authority of the Senate, which he by the authority of the Roman legates had before concluded with them.  
¶ Thus all things being at peace, both by sea and by land, he with his army took shipping, and sailed over into Sicilia, and from thence into italy: where he was met by the men of the country with great honour and joy: so glad was every man both of peace and of victory. The poor men of the towns and cities by the way, as he went toward Rome, ran forth to see him, and to praise him. Thus in great honour came be into Rome, where he was received into the city with most noble triumph. After that he enriched the city with great s●mmes of gold and silver, of the prays that he had taken, beside that he distributed among his soldiers xl M. li. And of the conquest, which he had made in Africa, he was called Scipio Affricanus ever after, to the great honour of all his family and succession.   

¶ Hannibal fleith by sea to Antiochus king of Syria, Antiochus moveth war to the Romans, L. Cornelius Scipio saileth into Asia, fighteth with Antiochus, vanquisheth him, granteth him peace upon conditions, and returneth to Rome. Cap. lxxiii.  
AFter the wars thus ended in Africa, the Carthaginenses continued in peace a certain season. At the last the enemies of Annibal, to work him displeasure, sent word to Rome to the senate, that Hannibal had privily sent messengers and letters to Antiochus the king of Syria, moving him, to war with the Romans. And also that messengers were sent with letters secretly from Antiochus to Hannibal. certifying them further, that the mind of Annibal was such, that he could never be contented, till he hard the sound of harness upon men's backs. The Romans being angry thereat, sent legates thither, C. Servilius, Claudius Marcellus, and Terentius culeo, to try, whether the information to them made, were true or no: Commanding them, to publish abroad, that the cause of their coming was, to here and determine certain matters in controversy, which were between the Carthaginenses & the king Massanissa, & none other.  
¶ This tale published by them, was believed to be true of the common people. But Hannibal therewith could not be blinded. He knew full well, that he only was the cause of their coming. Wherefore thinking for a season to give place, till the time might better serve him. He with ii other departed out of the city in the beginning of the night, in a strangers apparel, and came to a place: where he before had appointed his horses to meet him, and from thence with speed he went to a castle of his own by the sea side, where a ship of Italy awaited for him, appointed for the same purpose. In which ship he sailed from Africa, and arrived the same day in the isle of Circyna, making more dole all the way for the hard chances that were happened to his country, than he did for his own evil fortune. In the haven of Circyna he found many ships laden with merchandise, and at his landing, great resort of people of the i'll came unto him, saluting him, and making of his coming great joy. Hannibal fearing, lest some of those ships in the night should depart from the haven, and show in Africa, that they had seen him in Circyna: He devised to make a solemn sacrifice, and a great feast, to the which he bad all the masters of the ships that were in the haven, and all the merchants that were in the same. And for that the wether was very hot (being about the mids of summer) he caused all the sails of the ships, with the cross masts, whereunto the sails be fastened, to be all brought on land. Wherewith he made pavilions and bowers, to defend them from the vehement heat of the son, while they souped on the shore. The feast was sumptuous, as the time might serve thereto, and was kept very solemnly. There was wine great plenty, wherewith many were drunken and heavy headed. The banquet was also purposely prolonged, till it was far in the night. Then fell the merchants a sleep, with the mariners also. Which Hannibal espienge, thought he had then good time to mock them, and taking his ship, secretly departed, leaving them fast on sleep. On the morrow, when the mariners arose with heavy heads, they carried their sails and other tackelinges again to the ships, preparing all things ready. But or they might bring all to pass, they spent a good part of the next day.  
¶ On the morrow after the departing of Hannibal from Carthage, his friends, that usually resorted to his company, after that they could not find him, nor here of him, they gathered a great multitude of the city together in the market place, inquiring, if any news could be showed of the chief ruler of their city. Some conjectured, that he was fled away for fear of his conspiracy against the Romans. Some other said, that the Romans had by some crafty train conspired his death. Thus diverse were the tales, according to the diversity of sects that were in the city. tidings soon after was brought thither, that he was seen at Circyna. Than the Roman legates openly in the senate of Carthage, found great lack, and blamed greatly the citizens and rulers, for suffering him to depart, considering the privy letters and messages that were sent between him and Antiochus, saying. That he would never be satisfied, till he had moved war through all the world. The Carthaginenses excused themselves, affirming, that they were nothing privy nor consenting to his departing.  
¶ Now was Annibal arrived at Tyrus, where he was received honourably, and with great joy: and there he sojourned certain days. From thence he sailed to Antioch, and after that to Ephesus, where he found the king Antiochus: who was in great doubt before his coming, in what manner he should mainteygne his wars against the romans. The king was greatly comforted by the mean of his coming, and also by the being there of the ambassadors of the Etholiens: who the same time were departed from the amity of the Romans. He was determined to move war: for agree would he not to certain conditions of peace, that the Romans prescribed unto him. Which he thought should be greatly to the loss both of his honour and also of his dominions. For they would have caused him to leave the possession of certain cities, that he had. And also that he should not meddle in Grece: but how and where he should move this war, he was not determined. Hannibal was greatly in his favour, and chieifly for that he thought him an expert man & a meet consellor in his affairs against the Romans. Hannibal ever was of the opinion, that he should make war in Italy, for that the country of Italy is able to furnish an army of victuals and all things necessary, and also of soldiers, if he should have need of men of arms at any time. But (said he) if no war be moved in Italy, so that the Romans may have all the hole power thereof, to make war in other regions out of Italy: then is there no prince nor nation of the world able to withstand the Romans.  
Wherefore if ye will deliver unto me one. C. of ships of war, and xvi thousand footmen, with one thousand of horsemen: I will with that power sail into Africa, trusting to cause the Carthaginenses to rebel against the Romans. Or in case they will not follow my request: yet will I invade some part of Italy, and move war to the Romans. Then may you (said he to the king) with all the rest of your power, sail into Europe, keeping your army in Grece, ready to set forwards as ye see cause.  
¶ This his counsel was well allowed of the king: whereupon one Ariston, an Ephesien, a wise and a trusty man, was chosen to sail to Carthage, to the friends of Hannibal, with privy and special tokens by mouth, which they knew were true and not feigned, to show unto them his purpose. For writing durst he send none, for fear of taking of the messengers. His message only was to be declared upon credence.  
¶ But while Aryston went on his message, and therein had no good speed: the ambassadors of Rome were come to Ephesus, to know of Antiochus, the cause why he intended such war against the Romans, among which ambassadors it was said that P. Scipio, called Affricanus was one. Which ambassadors having knowledge, that the king Antiochus was a little before gone against the Pisidians, and finding Annibal there: they divers times resorted unto him, and had familiar communication with him: only to the intent to make him have a good opinion of the Romans, and not to mistrust, that any thing was intended by them against him. Among other communication between the ambassadors and Annibal, it is remembered, that Scipio demanded of him, whom he judged to be the most noble captain, that ever he knew or heard of. To whom Hannibal answered, that it was Alexander of Macedony: for that he with a small power overcame so many nations, and vanquished so many great armies in battle, traveling so many strange and far countries, which passed the power and wit of man's compass. Then Scipio demanded of him, whom he judged to be the second most noble captain. He answered, Pyrrbus, which was the most wise and expert man in placing his camps, in fortifying his fortresses with watch and ward, and in getting the hearts of men unto his obeisance. In so much, that when he warred in italy, the Italyens were gladder to be under his governance, being but a straungyer, then under the dominion and power of the Romans. Then demanded Scipio, whom he thought to be the third: Without fail (said he) it is myself. At which answer Scipio laughed, and said: What wouldst thou then have said, in case thou hadst overcome me in battle, as I have done thee? truly (said Hannibal) then would I have put myself before both Alexander and Pyrrhus also. This answer seemed to Scipio very strange and proud, whereby he minded to take from Scipio all his glory.  
¶ During this long tarrying of the Roman legates at Ephesus, nothing else was wrought, but that the often meeting and communication of them with Hannibal, made the king more to suspect and mistrust him. Whereupon he was no more called to his council.  
¶ Again, one Thoas an Etholien, desirous to have the king, with all his power, to arrive in Grece, without parting of the same his strength, said unto him: Sir, the great city Demetrias, and the more part of all the cities in Grece, look daily for your coming thither. And against your arrival, ye shall see all the country assemble on the seaside, so soon as they may by watches perceive your navy coming on the sea. And as touching the parting of your ships and power: that I can in no wise allow. And in case ye were minded so to do, Hannibal of all men is most unmeet, to have the rule and governance thereof.  
¶ first ye must consider (said this Thoas) that Annibal is a carthaginians, and an outlaw or banished man from his country: Whose crafty wit will imagine daily a. M. new devices, even as fortune doth vary, or as it shall fall into his brain. Again if it should chance, that Annibal lose his navy, or his men to be vanquished: the loss will be no less, then if any other captain had lost them. But in case it should happen him to have the victory, the honour thereof shall wholly abide with Hannibal, and not with Antiochus. Furthermore, if fortune so well serve, that Hannibal utterly subdue the Romans: what will ye then think, that he will continue in your subjection, which in his country could not suffer himself to be in any obedience? Nay (said he) he that in his youth hath ever coveted in his mind, to be Emperor of the hole world, will now in age never be contented, to be under the rule of any other, if he may choose. Wherefore my counsel is, that ye have no need to make Annibal your captain: But if it please you, ye may use his company as your friend in your journey, taking his advise in your affairs, as a prudent counsellor, & none otherwise.  
¶ This crafty and untrue counsel of Thoas, turned the kings mind clean from sending of Hannibal with any army into Africa: which before was thought most meet and necessary. Wherefore he prepared to sail in to Grece, where by the help of the Etholiens he wan certain citi●s. At the last the consul M. Atulius, with an army of Romans, came to the socors of their friends, and at the great mountain, which passeth through the middle of Grece, fought with Antiochus, and put him to flight, sleyngal his host, except only .v. C. which fled with the king.  
¶ After which discomfiture, Antiochus, with Annibal, and his small number of men, that were left him at the battle, came to the see, and took shipping, and came to Ephesus, where he remained, thinking himself there to be sure out of the danger of the romans. And that he was persuaded to believe, by many that were about him, glad to please his mind: as many such dissemblers have been and shall be daily about great princes. But only Hannibal advised the king, to prepare for the coming of the Romans, saying, that he marveled more, that they were not already arrived, rather than their coming might be looked for. Showing him also, that the romans were as strong and valiant upon the see, as on the land: Not doubting, but shortly they would strive for the dominion of Asia, and that either he must take from them their Empire, or else he should be in danger to lose his kingdom. For he knew, their desire was to be rulers over all the world, Counseling him to look for none other thing at their hands. For in case he did, he should deceive himself with his vain and false hope.  
¶ Not long after this beginning of the wars in Grece, L. Cornelius Scipio, and C. Lelius, were chosen consuls. After which election, P. Scipio Affricanus offered the senate, that in case they would grant his brother, L. Scipio the country of Grece for his province: he would gladly take the pain to go with him in his journey. Whereunto the senate agreed, giving him also further authority, to go into Asia, if he thought it expedient. saying, they would now prove, whether Antio●hus should be more helped by the counsel of Hannibal, which was before vanquished: or the Roman consul and his army by the help of Scipio, that had before made the great conquest in Africa. The armies and ships were made ready, and the consul arrived in Grece, where soon receiving many the rebel cities into his hands, he from thence sailed into Asia: where, by the licence of the king Philip, he had passage through Macedony and Trace, to the kingdom of Antiochus.  
¶ divers battles were fought upon the sea, between the Roman navy and Polixenidas, captain of the kings ships: but ever the Romans had the victory, by the help of the king Eumenes, and also of the Rhodiens. At the last it chanced, that the son of Scipio Affricanus was taken prisoner, and brought to Antiochus: who kept him honourably and gently. And afterward, trusting to have the friendship of P. Scipio, and his help, for a peace to be made between the Romans and him: he sent him home his son, without paying any ransom for him. For when he perceived the Romans to approach so near unto him, he thought it better to common of peace before the battle, than after, trusting to have more easy conditions of peace, if it were moved in time. But when the matter came in communication, between the consul and the kings ambassadors, the conditions of the peace were so sore, that Antiochus refused to take them, although he were thereunto persuaded by the letters of P. Scipio the African. Whereupon both parties prepared them to fight. The battle was cruel, but at the last the king Antiochus was put to fiyght, and liiii M. of his footmen slain, and of horsemen four M. besides i M. and iiii. C. that were taken prisoners, with small loss of the romans. Then sent Antiochus eftsoons his ambassadors to the consul for peace: which at length, by means of P. Scipio Affricanus, was granted him, upon these conditions.  
¶ first that he should from thence forth no more make war in Europe. also that he should leave the possessions of all the cities lands and countries, which were on that side the great mountain, called Taurus. Again, he should pay the Romans fifteen thousand talentes in xii. years, and to pay unto king Eumenes iii hundred talentes, and a great quantity of wheat. Upon these conditions he should have peace. provided that Hannibal, the author of this war, with Thoas, and diverse other capitains and counsaylloures, might be delivered unto him. The king, being at this extreme myschyeffe, received the peace upon the said condytyons: and put in for the performance there of pledges. The same peace also was after that confirmed by the senate of Rome.  
¶ And so all things thus prosperously brought to pass, L. Scipio the consul returned to Rome, who was received into the city with great honour and triumph. And as his brother, of his victory in Africa was named Affricanus: so was he of his conquests in Asia, called Asiaticus, to the honour of his succession ever after.   

¶ Hannibal fleith to Prusias, the king of Bythinia, and how he ended his life. Cap. lxxiiii.  
ANniball, after the battle begun between the Romans and Antiochus, wherein he was vanquished and fled, mistrusting (as it followed after) that the king of necessity must be driven to take peace, in which he feared, lest the Romans, bearing to him mortal malice, would require his delivery: thought to provide for himself in time. Wherefore he incontinent fled to Prusias, than king of Bythinia. He had not long tarried there, but that T. Quintius Flaminius was sent from Rome to the king, shewing him, that the senators thought, he dealt not friendly with them, to keep in his realm their great and capital enemy Annibal: a man that made first his own country to make war with them, to the utter undoing of the same, and from thence came to Antiochus, and was autour also of his war with the Romans, and now was repaired unto him, which he thought would turn to his undoing. Prusias, willing to gratyfy the Romans: devised, either to slay him, or else to take and deliver him to Flaminius. whereupon incontinente the servants of the king, and also of Flaminius, beset the house of Hannibal round about, so that he could no way issue out. Hannibal, foreseeing the hatred that the Romans bore him, and the small faith of princes: specially the lightness of Prusias: He therefore, thinking to have some way to fly danger, if need required, had devised vii ways and entrees into his house. Whereof certain were very secret and privy. But the numbered was so great of men of arms, which were about his house: and the watch so straightly kept by the kings commandment, that where so ever he offered to issue, he espied embushementes of harney●●● men. 〈…〉 his time of death to draw near, he called for poison, which he long time had 〈…〉! him, and had ever ready for such chances, and said: Now will I deliver the Romans of great thought, that they have long time taken, to bring me to confusion. For although I be now old, yet they think it long before I die. But of this death, both they and Flaminius their legate shall have small victory. Then blaming the detestable falsehood of Prusias, that so cruelly would suffer the murder of his friend, whom he had received into his keeping: He drunk the empoisoned drink, and soon after died.  
¶ This was the lamentable end of the right wise noble and valiant capitain Hannibal, in a strange region, exiled and banished from his own native country. About which time, or not long before, the worthy Roman Scipio Affricanus also died: whom the Romans, after his manifold benefits to them showed, recompensed with detestable ingratitude, certain of the city being his enemies (as no man in authority can escape envy) charged him with the old matter, between Pleminius and the Locrenses. Wherein (they said) he being consul was corrupted with money. And therefore ministered not justice. Again, they laid against him, the delivery of his son, being prisoner with Antiochus, without ransom: which they thought was very suspicious. For these small causes was he called before the Senate, and as though he had been a mean person, put to answer with extremity: without favour, or having any respect to his noble acts, done for the common weal. Which ingratitude he took so displesantly, that departing out of the court, he went into the country, to the town of Lytarne, where he dwelled as long as he lived, exiling himself from Rome for ever. And at his death, he commanded his body to be buried there also: that his bones might not rest in an unkind country.  
¶ Thus were ii of the worthiest cities of the world found unkind to their noble rulers and capitains, and both about one time. Carthage banished Hannibal, after that he was vanquished. Rome exiled Scipio, that had vanquished all her enemies. Wherein she was of the twain more to be blamed of ingratitude.  
☞ FINIS. ☜   

❧ Londini. ❧ IN aedibus Thomae Bertheleti regii impressoris typis excusum.  
ANNO VERBI INCARNATI. M. D. X L I I I I  
CUM PRIVILEGIO AD IMPRIMENDVW SOLUM.