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SCIENTIA
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CAIUS IVLIUS
CÆSAR'S
COMMENTARIES
Jam Marugua
le Senlo
C. JULIUS CAESAR'S
COMMENTARIES
OF HIS
Wars in Gaul,
AND
Civil War with Pompey.
To which is added,
A SUPPLEMENT to his Commentary of his
WARS in GAUL;
As alfo, COMMENTARIES of the Alexandrian,
African, and Spaniſh Wars,
By AULUS HIRTIUS, or OP PIUS, &c.
WITH THE AUTHOR's LIFE.
Adorn'd with SCULPTURES from the DESIGNS of
the famous PALLADIO.
Made Engliſh from the Original Latin,
By Col. MARTIN BLADEN
THE SEVENTH EDITION, reviſed and corrected.
With NOTES explaining the moſt difficult Paſſages, an Index of
the Ancient and Modern Names of Places, and DIONYSIUS
Vossius's Supplement collected from PLUTARCH, APPIAN,
DION, &c. which makes a Connection between the Wars in
Gaul and Civil War with POMPEY.
ONDO N
Printed for J. and P. KNAPTON, in Ludgate-ftreet; S. BIRT, in
Ave-mary-lane; T. LONGMAN, C. HITCH, M. COOPER, in
Pater-nofter-Row; T. OSBORNE, in Gray's-Inn; J. CLARKE,
under the Royal Exchange; J. HODGES, on London-Bridge ;
E. WICKSTEED, in New-gate-ftreet; J. and J. RIVING-
TON, in St. Paul's Church-yard; J.WARD, in Corn-
bill, oppofite the Royal Exchange.
MDCCL.
1735
TO HIS
EXCELLENCY
JOHN,
Duke of MARLBOROUGH,
Marquess of Blandford, Earl of Marlborough,
Baron CHURCHILL of Sandridge and Au-
mouth, Captain General of all her Majesty's
Forces, one of the Lords of her Majesty's most
Honourable Privy Council, Knight of the
moſt Noble Order of the Garter, Ambaſſador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary from her
Majefty to the United Provinces, Prince of
the Empire, and General of the Confederate
Armies, &c.
SIR,
I
Perſuade myſelf your GRACE will pardon
this prefumption, when You fhall confi-
der, the fame unavoidable neceffity that
obliged the King of Spain to put his fword
into your GRACE's hands, forces me to lay
CÆSAR at your feet. For who fhould the
greateft Hero of his age have recourse to, but
the Greateſt of ours? Whoſe protection ſhould
CÆSAR Court, but the victorious Duke of
MARLBOROUGH'S?
Not that I wanted inclination to prompt me
to the choice; but I refolved my officious zeal
fhould
a 2
iv
DEDICATION.
ſhould not offend your GRACE, before I could
bring an offering that might attone for the in-
trufion: 'till then, I was not content, with the
reft of mankind, filently to adore your GRACE's
virtues; and return heaven thanks for bleffing
You with the fuccefs, your Royal Miſtreſs's
cauſe, and your own merits deferved.
Often have I wiſhed in vain, that nature had
bleffed me with a genius, fit to record the no-
ble actions your GRACE has done in defence
of Europe; that I could oblige pofterity with
fo grateful a character, to whom fo many after
ages ſhall hold themſelves indebted for liberty;
that I could defcribe your GRACE's modera-
tion, wiſdom, generofity, juftice, mercy, your
conduct, and your courage; an equal mixture
of the hero and the chriftian. But, alas! the
attempt were as vain as glorious; PHAETON
like, I ſhould tumble from the heaven I foared
to, and convince mankind, my affection was
greater than my power, my ambition than my
prudence. Here, would the cenforious fay,
lies the man, who effayed to draw the мIGH-
TY CAPTAIN, that he might fet his own name
at the bottom of the picture, and erect an
eternal monument for himſelf, by being attend-
ant on fo great a perfon.
But as CESAR thought no body fo proper to
write his actions as himself; fo your GRACE
being beft acquainted with your own wiſe coun-
fels, deep defigns, and happy executions, can
beft defcribe the battles You have fought, the
victories you have gained, the fieges You have
formed, and the towns You have taken; nor
were a lefs perfon worthy of the office.
And
DEDICATION.
And certainly CESAR, who writ as well as
he fought, gave proofs of his wiſdom in leaving
thefe Commentaries, where his pen has engraven
the conquefts his fword atchieved: a truth the
great HENRY the fourth of France was fenfible
of, when he tranflated this book, and defigned
to copy after it. Had ALEXANDER taken the
fame care, many of thofe actions which now
pafs for fables, might have met with credit,
when related with greater modefty: but the
preſent accounts we have of his exploits feem
wholly poetical, ſtuffed with Greek hyperboles ;
and his character, with that of CYRUS, appear
ideas for forming the minds of young princes,
perfect TELEMACHUS's to teach monarchs
what they ſhould be, rather than what others
really were. But CÆSAR, who was not inferior
to ALEXANDER in virtue, equalled him in fuc-
cefs, and far excelled him in conduct.
From your GRACE's memoirs the world
might expect an impartial account of the three
laft campaigns; of the fieges of Bonn, Lim-
burgh, and Liege, of the glorious and fuccefs-
ful attempt at Schellenberg, and of that unpar-
allell'd action at Blenheim; where the Bava-
rians ftrove in vain to blaft brave Prince EU-
GENE's Italian lawrels, whilft united vigour
forced them to retreat. The engineers, afhamed
to fee their party fly, refolved richly to vindi-
cate the lofs of lives innumerable, by taking
Yours but the guardian angel, whom heaven
appointed to protect your perfon, taught even
bullets to pay your GRACE all awful deference,
and glide fubmiflively between your horfe's legs.
Here the eyes of all Europe were fix'd upon
your GRACE, for the fate of the Empire de-
a 3
pended
vi
DEDICATION.
ADATIR
ALS
1
!
pended on your fword, which effected won-
ders; yet nothing lefs would have anſwered the
expectations the world had from your manage-
ment. Reading therefore the journals of this
happy day, when from your all-conquering
arm France received fo fatal a blow, and the
Danube gained a more glorious name than Si-
mois, or Scamander, from the fate of many
thouſands, whom your GRACE difpatch'd to
carry news of your victory to the other world,
future ages fhall break out into that rapture,
with the polite and judicious PATERCULUS,
Circa Blenheim vero, tantæ res gefta, quantas
audere, vix hominis; perficere, nullius certe nifi
Dei! Then comparing your GRACE's actions,
with thoſe of CASAR, confeſs You wanted
nothing but the fame independent command of
an army, to have rendered You equal with him
in renown. For as ALEXANDER fought with
an effeminate people, fo CESAR encountered
the Gauls when unexperienced, though a war-
like nation but your GRACE has engaged and
defeated them, with their beſt allies, after they
were grown old in arms, had been inured to
perpetual camps and fieges, and long renowned
for the moſt, expert foldiers in Chriſtendom.
A
:
A
This defeat then, the most intire one France
has received fince our Black Prince led their
Flower-de-luce captive into England, his Im-
perial Majefty and all mankind agree was as
much owing to your GRACE's conduct as your
courage; a virtue always preferred by CÆSAR
to the latter, witnefs his fpeech to his foldiers in
Spain, when he declined fighting AFRANIUS
upon advantage, where his mercy fhined as
confpicuouſly as your GRACE's at Liege.
Yet
DEDICATION.
vii
:
[
Yet thus far fuccefs attended HANNIBAL,
'till the rout of AMILIUS, and the dreadful
flaughter at Cannæ made the Capitol tremble:
but here, for want of conduct, the deferted
him, leaving his name a proverb to pofterity:
Hannibal knew how to win, he knew not to
improve a victory." Flufh'd with the pride of
conqueft, he vainly thought he had already
raiſed the common wealth of Carthage above
that of Rome: empty applaufe, trophies en
groffed his every thought; fo intent was the A-
frican upon the action paft, he could not afford
one moment to reflect on accidents that might
hereafter happen.
Not fo your GRACE, whofe deeper judg-
ment, loyal zeal, and charitable care for Europe,
taught You to purfue your fortune, whilſt by
your compofure, and wondrous fedatenefs, a
ftranger would have judged your GRACE had
been the conquered, not the conqueror. From
fuch elevated, fuch more than human minds, the
Grecians cull'd the choiceſt attributes to deck
their heathen deities: hence they inform us,
when their JOVE had thunderftruck the rebel-
lious fons of earth, that afpired to dethrone
him; as much unmoved with victory as with
their infolence before, retiring to his cabinet, he
meditated good to this inferior orb.
But whither will the delightful fubject hurry
me? I forget, whilft I thus detain your GRACE,
I am finning against the publick; that whilft
I attempt to do You juftice, I offend your mo
deity; and that my utmoſt endeavours cannot
add a ſingle ſpark to your GRACE's luftre, whoſe
furprising virtues have placed you as far above
the reach of praife as envy. Let me therefore,
2.4
Sir,
viii
DEDICATION.
}
Sit, only beg you would graciouſly pleaſe to
accept this tranflation, as an earneſt of my moft
profound réfpect.
So may thofe powers that have already made
your name immortal, long preſerve your
GRACE's life for the univerfal good of man-
kind long may the QUEEN be bleffed in
fuch a ſubject, England in ſuch a General; may
conftant fucceſs attend your GRACE's enfigns;
ftill may You continue the Darling of Europe,
and the Terror of France.
1 am,
I
६
SIR,
.
Your GRACE's
Moft Obedient, moft Devoted,
{
And most Humble Servant,
1
MARTIN BLADEN.
1
}
[ ix}
TO THE
READER.
O much of this book as CESAR writ him-
ſelf, was tranflated into Engliſh, and il-
luftrated with notes by Mr. EDMUNDS, for
the uſe of Prince HENRY, the hopes of our nation,
in the reign of King JAMES the firft: and whether
the difficulty of the work, or the diſadvantage of
coming after fo great a man, has prevented others
from attempting a new verfion, I know not; but
no body hitherto has obliged the world with an effay
of this nature.
Theſe reaſons, I must confefs, with the trouble
of the various lections, the impoffibility of ex-
pounding the ancient names in föme places with
modern, and adjuſting military terms to the taſte
of fuch readers as have not been verfed in Roman
hiſtory, almoſt diſcouraged me from venturing upon
a tafk, wherein I had not the vanity to expect ap-
plaufe, whilſt I run fo apparent a hazard of ex-
pofing my weakneſs to an age that never accepts
the intention for the deed. But when I reflected
how much more correct the laborious criticks have
made our author, and how many improvements our
native tongue has received fince Mr. EDMUNDS'S
time, I thought CÆSAR in a modern ftyle might
not be an ungrateful prefent to fuch as either do
not understand, or are not willing to give them-
felves the trouble of reading the Latin. Nor was
this the only caufe that moved me to the under-
taking; for, comparing the old Engliſh with the
original, I found there were feveral grofs errors,
fuch
X
TO THE RERDER.
a
fuch as applying the actions of one fide in a bat-
tle to the contrary party, with other trifling mif-
takes, almoſt in every page; which I rather attri-
bute to the printer, the edition the book was
tranſlated from, or the defect of our language in
thoſe days, than to Mr. EDMUNDS's, whofe notes
fufficiently prove he wanted neither judgment par
learning.
And indeed 'tis a melancholy thought, to reflect
with Mr. WALLER and DRYDEN, what ftrange
revolutions our language has fuffered; whilft a
modern Frenchman may yet underſtand the bar-
barous jargon our Law-Reports are penned in, the
lafting remembrancers of our Norman flavery;
and PETRARCH ftill fpeaks good Italian, though
CHAUCER, who died fixty-fix years after him, muſt
have a Saxon or Scotch commentator to make him
intelligible. Yet, on the other hand, when I con-
fider to how vaft a degree of politenefs thoſe two
incomparable mafters, the prefent Biſhop of Ro-
chefter and Sir ROGER L'ESTRANGE, have arrived,
I cannot help thinking they have faved the king-
dom the expence of an academy, and brought us
to that perfection our neighbours fo much boaſt
of. Our language at prefent is full, elegant, and
expreffive; our very news-mongers write better.
now than the moft renowned authors about a cen-
tury ago; and except one or two vulgar errors, it
will be difficult to inftance any thing in familiar
difcourfe that clafhes with grammar. If we are
not altogether fo happy as other nations in a na-
tural turn and, cadence; one advantage I am fure
we have to value ourſelves upon, which will more
than ballance that defect; that as the mild punish-
ments inflicted by the laws are an argument of our
native honeſty, our language is no lefs: we have
no ambiguous words, nay, the marshalling of them
-
Vid. ÉDMUNDS's tranflation, Book V. of the Wars in Gaul,
chap. 6. line: 13. ofthe first column. Ibid. Civil Wars, Book III
chap, 22. col. 2. from line 22 tq, 30. Sc...
- 177.
does
TO THE READER.
xi
does not admit of a double meaning: Thus the
traitor, who gave that oraculous advice about king
EDWARD the ſecond, Edvardum occidere noli timere
bonum eft, was obliged to travel beyond the limits
of his country for the expreffion.
*
Mr. EDMUNDS's remarks on CESAR's Commen-
taries, it muſt be confeffed, are very juft; but
every age has the advantage of the former, and
the ingenious Mr. KENNETT has far out-done all
that have gone before him on the fubject of anti-
quities. His fhort, but comprehenfive chapter of
the Roman Art of War, may make any perfon a
compleat mafter of that learning, and ferve for a
comment to explain fuch things in the following
hiſtory, as to the Englifh reader appear not intelli-
gible for though VEGETIUS, LIPSIUS, and fome
others, are very voluminous upon this point, yet
our countryman has omitted nothing neceffary to
be known.
'Tis fit I ſhould acquaint you, I chiefly made ufe
of Vossius's edition, which the learned take to
be one of the moſt correct. But I muft own, for
the buſineſs of various readings, I have generally
followed my own judgment, proceeding upon this
maxim, That CESAR could not write nonfenfe.
Therefore whereever the text was inconfiftent with
reafon or connexion, though others have not, I
have taken the liberty to alter it. But on the other
hand, I did not think it worth my while to enter
into diſputes about derivations, whence CÆSAR had
his name, whence the ancient Druids theirs, from
Hebrew, Greek, or Welſh; nor yet, whether the
epiftle CÆSAR fent QUINTUS TULLIUS CICERO,
when befieged by the Gauls, was writ in private
characters, or Grecian letters: enquiries of this na÷
ture I refer to thofe Gentlemen, who have more
leifure and curiofity than I. For in my opinion,
T
b In this edition of the tranſlation, not only Voffius's divifion
into chapters has been followed, but the more common one into
fections, after Davies, Jurin, &c.
whoever
xii
TO THE READER.
whoever makes a progrefs in fpeculations of this
kind, when he appears in publick, will convince
the world he has mifpent abundance of time; and
whilft he endeavours to fhew his reading, betrays
his want of judgment.
CÆSAR writ no more of theſe Commentaries
than the ſeven firſt books of his exploits in Gaul,
with thoſe other three of the Civil Wars: for the
eighth book of the Gallic, the Alexandrian, African
and Spaniſh wars, were fupplied by other hands,
whether AULUS HIRTIUS PANSA, or OPPIUS, im-
ports not the reader much to know. All, except
the Spaniſh memoirs, are very well penned, though
not comparable to CÆSAR's ftyle: but for the laft,
'tis difficult to determine whether they were more
barbarouſly written, or carelefly tranſcribed; any
man may foon diſcover, they owe their original to
a different hand from the reft. RHELICANUS, who
is as wretched a commentator as the other a writer,
attributes this fingle book to OPPIUS, the reft to
HIRTIUS: but I am rather inclined to believe it
belonged to fome more modern author, who had
the vanity to think future ages might miſtake his
fpurious iffue for CÆSAR's; for he awkwardly apes
him, uſes the words nos and noftri upon all occaſions,
to make himſelf a party to the action, which HIR-
TIUS feldom or never does; and in the defcription
of a bridge cross the Guadalquivir, feems to refer
to that of CÆSAR over the Rhine, by theſe words,
ut fupra fcripfimus, as we have already taken no-
tice. All, but this worthy piece, have ſince been
added at different times to M. EDMUNDS's work:
and indeed it has nothing to recommend it to the
publick, but that it contains part of CESAR's
actions: for the text is fo ftrangely mangled and
corrupt, I was frequently obliged to make both the
original and the verfion too.
'Tis the duty of every tranflator ſtrictly to adhere
at leaft to his author's meaning, if not his words
for the latter of thele the various idiom of languages
fometimes
2
TO THE READER.
хіїї
fometimes will not admit of, and he who endea-
vours to turn a book verbatim, may be efteemed
an able grammarian, but he will meet with very
few readers. On the other hand, I am by no
means for allowing fo great a liberty as Monfieur
D'ABLANCOURT has taken; fuch as tranfpofing
whole paragraphs, leaving out fentences, inferting
periods, and (if I may be allowed to ſay it of fo
learned a man) miftaking others. For though all
verfions fall fhort of the excellence of their original,.
yet he who renders a book into his native language,
fhould confider he is only accountable for his own,
not for his author's failings. To me it appears
very ftrange, that French Gentleman, who has af-
fumed fo great a freedom in other places, fhould
be fo extreamly modeft where neceffity and even
CÆSAR'S meaning required he ſhould be other-
wife.
Thus our author, defcribing the cuſtoms of the
Germans, tells us, pag. 163. Qui diutiffime impu-
beres permanferunt, maximam inter fuos ferunt laú-
dem: hoc alii ftaturam, alii vires, nervofque con-
firmari putant. Intra annum vero xx femine noti
tiam habuiffe, in turpiffimis habent rebus. Thus
turned by Monfieur D'ABLANCOURT. C'est une
bonte parmi eux d'avoir la compagnie des femmes
avant l'âge de vingt ans, & ils eftiment beaucoup ceux
qui font long-temps fans avoir le barbe, parce qu'ils
croyent, que par ce moyen ils ont plus de taille & plus
de force & de vigueur.-Thus by Mr. EDMUNDS:
"Šuch as continue longeft beardfefs are moft com-
mended amongſt them: for this fome think to be
very available to their ftature, others to their ftrength
and finews. They hold it a moft difhoneft part,
for one to touch a woman before he is twenty years
of age.
>>
Here the reader may pleafe to remark, both
theſe Gentlemen are ftrangely miſtaken in the
meaning of the word impuberes, which in this
place fignifies not beardlefs, but virgins: to ren
der
xiv
TO THE READER.
66
der it otherwiſe were to make CASAR contradict
all other naturalifts, who efteem hair an argument
of ſtrength, and inform us, that too early a know-
ledge of women relaxes the nerves, and ſpoils
our growth: therefore I would tranflate it thus ;
They eſteem thofe men the moft, who have
lived the longeſt virgins; which they believe con-
tributes to their growth, vigour, and the ſtrength-
ening of their nerves; but nothing is thought fo
ignominious amongst them, as to know a woman
before they have paffed the twentieth year of their
age.
Next, for the proper names, I have confulted
feveral authors, as CLUVER, SCALIGER, ORTE-
LIUS, but chiefly Monfieur SANSON, Geographer
to the preſent French King, whom one might
reaſonably expect to have found infallible in the
chart of his own country: but towns have fre-
quently changed not only their names, but even
their fituations; this therefore may excufe what
errors he has been guilty of, together with the am-
bition of confuting an opponent, which upon fome
occafions would not allow him leifure to reflect be-
fore he refolved.
I will give you two inftances: Uxellodunum,
fay ORTELIUS and SCALIGER, is Uffeldon in Quer-
cy; but SANSON will have it to be Cahors, be-
cauſe, it ſeems, there are feveral of the fame dif-
tinguishing marks to be met with there, which oc-
cur in CÆSAR's defcription of this place, as the
mount, the fountain, &c. But fo long as all man-
kind agree there are ftill exactly the fame to be
ſeen at Uffeldon, methinks the affinity of the name
might have decided the queſtion in favour of the
latter. Another of his arguments feems to run
thus Civitas Cadurcorum, in CÆSAR'S time, meant
the capital of Quercy, which is now called Cahors,
as appears by the Notitia of the provinces; whereas
in fact, SCALIGER'S Notitia Gallie calls Cabors,
Epifcopatus Cadurfenfis, and Divona Cadurcorum.
Befides,
TO THE READER.
XV
Befides, granting ſo large a Poftulatum, it were no
difficult matter to prove York and Aldborough to
be the very fame place; for Ifuvium, or Aldbo
rough, was the capital of that part of England, be-
fore York was founded.
But the other is more palpable than this. SCA-
LIGER and ORTELIUS affirm Metiofedum to be the
fame with Melodunum, the more modern name
of the two for Melun, which lies upon the banks
of the Sein, between Sens and Paris. But SANSON
fays this Metiofedum is another town, which he
calls Meudon, about four miles below Paris. The
reafons he gives are taken from chap. 27. book vii.
of the wars in Gaul, where you may obferve LA-
BIENUS defigning to fecure his retreat from Sens
to Paris, commanded the Roman knights to fall
about four miles down the river, with the hips he
brought from Melun, and expect him there: five
$60.
cohorts he left in his camp; five more with the Melodu-
baggage he fent up the river; and ordered a par- no.
cel of cock-boats to row the fame way with as
much noiſe as poffible, to alarm the Gauls: Who,
upon advice of theſe motions, likewife divided
their forces into three parts; one body they left
over-againſt the Roman camp; Et parva manu
Metiofedum verfus miffa, que tantum progrederetur
quantum naves proceffiffent, &c. "And detaching a
fmall party towards Metiofedum, with orders to
advance as far as the fhips were gone before, &c."
From hence, fays he, it plainly appears Metioſe-
dum cannot be Melun, becauſe the fhips fell down
the river four miles lower than Paris, whereas Me-
lun lies up the river.
So great a veneration have I for Monfieur SAN-
SON's character, had he pofitively affirmed this,
without giving his reafons, in the Differtation upon
his map of old Gaul, I might have paid an im-
plicit faith to his fkill; for my logick taught
me fo much complaifance to every artift in the
way of his own profeffion. But it happens very.
unfor-
ง
xvi
TO THE READER.
unfortunately, the next fentence ſhould confute
him; Reliquas copias contra LABIENUM duxerunt :
"They marched with the rest of their forces
againſt LABIENUS;" who was actually with the
ſhips in perſon, before the legions croffed the river;
therefore granting what he ſays, either the Gauls
three parties were dwindled into two, or he has di-
$61. vided LABIENUS and his legions, after CÆSAR join-
ed them.
1 The ſtreſs of his argument you may perceive
depends upon the word naves, which CESAR has
indifferently made ufe of in both places; whereas
he exprefly calls the veffels that rowed upwards
lintres, cock-boats. But had Monfieur SANSON
given himſelf the trouble of looking a little fur-
ther backward, I am perfuaded he would have
changed his opinion; for CÆSAR fays exprefly in
$62. the chapter before, Metiofedum is a town in the
country of Sens; and then it is impoffible Paris
could lie between that and Sens; for though theſe
two were once united, yet in cÆSAR's time they
were different ſtates. Beſides, the fame chapter
tells us, LABIENUS was then come immediately
thither from Sens; but finding he could not get
over the moraſs about Paris, returned the fame way
he came, and furprized Metiofedum upon his
$ 58. Mss.
Melodu- march; which plainly demonftrates that town muſt
lie betwen Paris and Sens.
110m.
Had he only confidered the propriety of that
phrafe, where CÆSAR fays, after LABIENUS had re-
built the bridge at Metiofedum, he marched from
thence fecundo flumine, or with the ftream, towards
Paris, he could not have been guilty of this miſtake.
The very fame expreffion is made ufe of in the
directions given the fhips, fecundo ftumine pro-
gredi, to fall down along with the ftream; whereas
the cock-boats were to row adverfo flumine, ar
againſt the current. But no wonder CAESAR fhould
make uſe of the word Naves upon this occafion, to
But the mss. and better Edd. read there Melodunum, as is
obferved by Davies, Clarke, &c. and fo we have altered it in this
Edition.
exprefs
4
TO THE READER.
xvii
exprefs the orders given by the Gauls, who might
eafily miftake the cock-boats in the dark for more
confiderable veffels, by the noife LABIENUS had
commanded them to make.
So much for Monfieur SANSON's opinion, with
whom his own countryman D'ABLANCOURT like-
wife differs; for he tranflates this place Corbeil,
according to MARLIANUS; which I durft not, for
fear of offending JOSEPH SCALIGER, who wifhes
thoſe that miſtake Melun for Corbeil, a return of
their fenfes; but this critick was no more bur-
dened with ceremony than his father. I might
here take notice, that BUNO's edition of CLUVER,
places Mediolanum about four miles below Paris;
which name, in my opinion, is much nearer a-kin
to the Dauphin's palace at Meudon than Metio-
fedum but I have already confumed too much
of your time about trifles; fo we have but a per-
fect account of the action, the place is not abſo-
lutely material: Befides, for my part, I do not pre-
tend to be a geographer, nor will I ever envy the
learned the reputation they may acquire by that
ſtudy.
For one particular I muft not omit to apologize,
becauſe I perceive fome gentlemen, for whofe
judgment I have no finall efteem, are diſpleaſed
at it: I have in fome places made ufe of the French
terminations for towns and countries out of their
dominions, where he have no Engliſh, as Bavier
inſtead of Bavaria. But if this be a miftake, I
ſhall freely confefs, 'twas a wilful one, for I choſe
Bavier as the ſhorter word; and fince no body has
hitherto naturalized Bavaria, I thought the French
came nearer our language than the Latin. Our
news-papers, I know, call it Bavaria, but by the
fame reaſon they might ſtill write Germania and
Hollandia: moft gentlemen that have been abroad,
fave themſelves the expence of fuch unneceffary
fyllables and the borrowing a word from France,
falls not within the lafh of the act for prohi-
b
bition
C
xviii
TO THE READER.
bition of commerce. I could heartily with the
following ſheets were fubject to no greater errors;
for I have not taken notice of others failings, to
make you fancy I have none myſelf: I am con-
ſcious of too many in every kind, which I entirely
ſubmit to your mercy, in hopes your good nature
will forgive them.
7
1
R.தார்
1
THE
[ xix ]
THE
Life of Cæfar.
C
of LUCIUS JU-
as he himſelf in-
AIUS JULIUS CÆSAR, the fon
LIUS CÆSAR and AURELIA,
formed the Romans in the funeral cration he
inade upon his aunt, was defcended on the father's fide from
IÜLUS the fon of ÆNEAS; on the mother's, from AN-
CUS MARTIUS. He was born at Rome during the con-
fulat of C. MARIUS, and L. VALERIUS FLACCUS, on the
twelfth of July, A. u. c. 654. of the JULIAN period
4615, and of the world 3851, about ninety-nine years
before the birth of our Saviour. His genius proved him
worthy the deſcent; for notwithstanding the difficulties
of a narrow fortune, his virtue raiſed him to that ftupend-
ous height, which few have attempted, none arrived at.
He was contracted, whilft a boy, to cossUTIA, a
lady whofe family, though far from the meaneft, was not
comparable to her riches: What reafons induced him to
put her away, and take CORNELIA, the daughter of
CINNA, in her ftead, I do not find: but this action,
SUETONIUS informs us, encreaſed the hatred SYLLA
bore him on the fcore of his affinity to MARIUS, who
married his aunt. At fixteen years of age he loft his fa-
ther, and the next cónfulate put up for the office of Flamen
Dialis, or High-prieft of JUPITER; whether he obtained
it, or no, authors differ; SUETONIUS affirms he did;
PLUTARCH fays otherwife, whofe opinion is much the
more likely of the two; for SYLLA, having then the
fupream power in his hands, might, with lefs trouble,
have prevented CAESAR's being chofen, than turn him out
of the pontificate, after he had once gained it by the
fuffrages of the people. 'Tis agreed on all hands, this
election had like to have proved fatal to him, for his early
b 2
ambition
XX
THE LIFE
}
ambition rouzed the dictator's jealoufy: the prefages he
made of him, are very remarkable: "You confider
not, faid he to the perfons that were fuiters for CÆSAR'S
life, and urged the innocence of his youth, that many MA-
RIUS's are in that boy." He therefore was for practiſing
the fame fure, but bloody policy with ULYSSES, who after
the taking of Troy, caft the young ASTYANAX head-
long from a tower. For tyrants are never free, even from
needlefs apprehenfions; though this, it muſt be confeffed,
was a judgment well grounded, as appeared by the future
event.
Thus CESAR, though labouring under the misfortune
of a quartan ague, was obliged to hide amongſt the Sabines,
and remove his lodgings every night: yet his utmoſt cau-
tion could not prevent his falling in fometimes with the
dictator's parties; but CORNELIUS's good-nature was not
proof againſt the talents he offered for his ranfome. Such
was the courfe of CASAR's life, till at length SYLLA,
yielding to the repeated inftances of MAMERCUS ÆMI-
LIUS, AURELIUS COTTA, and the Veſtal virgins, vouch-
fafed him a pardon, though not without the utmoſt re-
luctancy: "Take, faid he, the fatal gift you fo earnestly
defire; but remember I have foretold you, he will one
day prove the ruin of our party." So many hardfhips did
our hero labour under, and fo great difficulty was there to
preferve his life, whom fate had deftined for head of the
Roman empire, and lord of many kings.
This conceffion, in a manner extorted from SYLLA,
CESAR judged no fufficient fecurity for his perfon; where-
fore ſo long as the other was in power, he continued at as
great à diftance from Rome as poffible. He ferved as vo-
lunteer in Afia, under THERMUS the prætor, who ſent
him to Bithynia for the fleet; where he contracted a friend-
fhip with king NICOMEDES. Returning from thence, he
behaved himſelf fo well at the fiege of Mytilene, he ob-
tained a civic crown; nor did he give lefs proofs of his
courage, when under the command of SERVILIUS ISAU-
RICUS in Sicily, the time he remained there, which was
only fhort. For on advice that SYLLA's intereft declined,
he quitted the camp; but inftead of returning to Rome, as
his friends defired, took a voyage for Rhodes, where with
CICERO he became a hearer of APOLLONIUS, MOLON'S
fon, a great rhetorician; defigning to render himſelf
equally famous at the bar, and in the field. In this ſtudy
he made no indifferent progrefs; and we may eafily con-
3
clude
OF CÆSA R.
xxi
elude from the mafculine and polite ftyle of his Commenta-
ries, with that admirable ſpeech on CATILINE'S confpiracy,
recorded by SALUST, he might have rivalled
TUL-
LY, had not more important reafons changed the law-
yer for the ſtateſman, the orator for the general, arts,be-
fore as incompatible as empire and liberty, but reconciled
in CÆSAR.
In his paffage to Rhodes, he was taken by the pirates
that infefted thoſe feas, who proffered him his liberty for
twenty talents; but thinking that fum too finall, of his
own accord he added thirty more. Diſpatching meffen-
gers to raiſe the money, he remained their prifoner forty
days, 'till it came, attended only by his phyfician and two
fervants. During his ftay amongſt them, as an argument
of his unconcern, he frequently employed his time in mak-
ing verſes and orations, obliged them to be his auditors,
and if their want of judgment, or ill-nature, gave him
not the praiſes he deſerved, would threaten, in jeſt, to
crucify them, which he afterwards performed in earneſt;
though then it only paffed for raillery, and the effect of
juvenile heat.
The first proof he gave of his excellence in ſpeaking,
was when he accufed DOLABELLA of male-adminiftration
in Greece; but loft more by the enemies he made on that
occaſion, than he gained by the applaufe. His fecond at-
tempt, indeed, againſt PUBLIUS ANTONIUS, for bribery,
was more ſucceſsful: he engaged in this affair to oblige
the Grecians, and urged the matter fo home before M.
LUCULLUS, prætor of Macedonia, the defendant was
glad to appeal to the tribunes at Rome. Here likewife
CÆSAR acquired great reputation by his addrefs, fluent
ſpeech, and eaſy converfe; which did not a little engage
the common people in his intereft: add to this, his mag-
nificent treats, which ſo ſtrongly confirmed their affections,
their votes always bore witnefs for their gratitude.
CASAR all this while lived far greater than his patri-
mony could afford, contracted many debts, owed 1300
talents before he obtained any publick office; and his ene-
mies, who reflected not to how great advantage he be-
ftowed his money, did not defcry the politician through the
prodigal: ftill in vain they expected when his credit would
fink, till he had diſcharged the moſt honourable employ-
ments in the ſtate, and effectually gained his point, by fet-
tling a character for the moft generous, beft humoured
nobleman in Rome.
b 3
The
xxii
THE LIFE
1
1
The firft trial he made of his intereft, was when he flood
with C. POPILIUS for a tribunate of the foldiers, and car-
ried it. Some time after he was chofen quæftor, but that
year had the misfortune to lofe his aunt JULIA and wife
CORNELIA. It had always been the cuſtom to make orations
on the deceaſe of grave matrons, but never on young
women: CÆSAR, however, took this opportunity to
fhew the affection he had for his departed lady; and fo
well was he beloved by the people, they looked upon the
innovation as the effect of his tendernefs and good-nature.
But making the harangue in honour of his aunt's memory,
he produced the images of her husband MARIUS, which
no body ever had the hardinefs to do, fince the admi-
niſtration came into SYLLA's hands, who declared MA-
RIUS's party enemies to the ftate; a politick, bold, and
happy attempt; for by this means he revived their droop-
ing hopes, and made himſelf head of that faction.
CÆSAR knew the pofture of affairs was fomething changed;
therefore thought he might fafely venture to do his uncle
that juftice, which he afterwards did his enemy: for when
the civil wars were decided, thinking it ſufficient revenge
to have conquered, he was fo far from triumphing over the
misfortunes of his rival, he reſtored thofe trophies the peo-
ple had demoliſhed. Upon which occafion CICERO was
heard to fay, "CASAR, by fetting up POMPEY's ftatues,
had eſtabliſhed his own."
But
By this time we are to fuppofe he had arrived at the
twenty-fourth year of his life; for not before that age, ac-
cording to the cuſtom of Rome, was any perfon capable of
difcharging the office of quæftor, or treafurer: Now there-
fore he began to enter upon action. The farther Spain
was the theatre, where he attended the prætor FOTUS, and
acquitted himſelf with fuccefs; yet beholding the ftatue of
ALEXANDER the great in the temple of HERCULES at
Cadiz (whither he went by the prætor's command to hold
a convention of the ftates) he was feized with an extraor-
dinary melancholy, reflecting what an unactive life he had
hitherto led; whereas that noble Grecian, by his age, had
fubdued many nations. Thus as the defire of imitating
HERCULES made an ALEXANDER, fo that of following
him, produced a greater CASAR, in whom concurred the
valour of ALEXANDER, the clemency of CYRUS, and
the conduct of FABIUS MAXIMUS.
Whilft his head was filled with glorious notions, and an
ardent defire or rendering his name immortal, it is re-
ported
OF
xxiii
CÆSA R.
ported he had a dream which fhocked him extreamly: he
fancied he committed inceft with his mother. The con-
ftruction the foothfayers made of this was, He fhould ſub-
due his mother earth: an interpretation very agreeable to
the temper of the man. But the oracles and augurs of
old feldom fent a votary away diffatisfied, provided he
was able to pay for the anſwer. Hence the prieſts of Ju-
PITER HAMMON perfuaded PHILIP's fon he was nearly
related to the ſkies; and from the fame fountain, no doubt,
did many of thoſe auſpicious omens rife, that attended CA-
SAR's arms when he defeated POMPEY; little crafts de-
ſpiſed by the wifer fort, but of fingular uſe to hoodwink
the populace, who never fight fo zealoufly, as when they
fancy religion and heaven are on their fide.
After his return from Spain he married POMPEIA, lefs
renowned for virtue than beauty; witness her affair with
CLODIUS: all CESAR's accompliſhments, which enflaved
the world, were not fufficient to fix the roving inclinations
of a woman: nay, fo imprudent were her defires, fhe muſt
needs appoint the gallant an interview at her own palace
when (CAESAR being prætor) fhe and all the Roman ladies
were celebrating thoſe facred rites to the goddess BONA,
where men were never permitted to be prefent. She hoped
the youngſter's beardlefs age would have concealed him:
A trufty maid, who was privy to the intrigue, introduced
the gentleman; but as her evil ftars would have it, the
impatience of a youthful lover made CLODIUS quit the
place he had been pofted in; another of her maids acci-
dentally met him, and difcovered by his voice, he had no
title to wear petticoats. This immediately put the whole
palace in an uproar, the Orgia ended very abruptly; CLO-
DIUS was complained of, not only as an adulterer, but a
prophaner of the holy ceremonies; and CASAR thought
it high time, at once to be rid of his wife and the ſcandal:
yet being fummoned as a witnefs againſt CLODIUS, he ſaid
he had nothing to alledge against him: "Why then, an-
ſwered the profecutors, have you difmiffed POMPEIA?
Becauſe, replied he, I would not have my wife even
fufpected.
Thus CÆSAR was divorced, CLODIUS acquitted.
Finding his generofity turned to fo good account, he
ftill continued to give proofs of it on all occafions. Being
elected edile, his magnificence fo far excelled his collegues,
that the whole honour redounded only to CESAR,
whilſt
BIBULUS fhared the fame fate with POLLUX, the other
b 4
with
xxiv
THE LIFE
with CASTOR, by. whofe name alone that temple in the
Forum was called, dedicated to both the brother twins
Every day encreaſed the affection of the people; and
CASAR, relying on their favour, put up for the extraor
dinary government of Egypt, becauſe the Alexandrians had
expelled their king. He wanted not fuffrages; but PTO-
LEMY having formerly been honoured by the fenate with
the name of friend, now found protection from his allies.
This was the firft difappointment he met with; nor did this
difcourage him from ſtanding ſoon after for the pontificate,
which became void by the death of METELLUS. CATULUS
and ISAURICUS, both perfons of great intereft in the fenate,
were his competitors; the former, dreading the lofs of hist
honour, privately fent CÆSAR a confiderable offer to deſiſt,
for he had not much to apprehend from ISAURICUS: but
he gave him to underſtand, he would himſelf expend a
much larger fum to carry the day. When the time ap-
pointed for the election was come, leaving the houſe, he
told his mother, "She fhould either fee him high-prieſt
that day, or banifhed." Thus probably had he miffed of
the office, his future hopes had been for ever dafhed: but
fortune had not a mind to diſoblige the man, for whom
ſhe had already cut out fo much bufinefs; therefore de-
cided the cauſe in his favour, by a vaft majority of votes.
When CATILINE's confpiracy broke out, CÆSAR was
prætor: The queftion being put, what fhould be done with
LENTULUS, CETHEGUS, and the reft of their faction; af-
ter many fenators had voted for putting them to death, he
ftood up and made an oration, wherein having urged the
illegality of executing perfons of their rank before they had
been duly tried, he advifed CICERO, then conful, might
confine them in fome of the municipal towns, 'till CATI-
LINE fhould be defeated, that the fenate might have lei-
fure to deliberate on their fentence. So ftrong were his
arguments, with fo peculiar a grace were they delivered,
and fo wondrous an effect had they upon the audience,
that not only moft who came after ſubmitted to his opi-
nion, but even fome that had voted before him recanted:
'till the fevere CATO, tranfported with zeal for the com-
monwealth, made a virulent ſpeech, wherein, to diminiſh
the credit of CÆSAR's reaſons, he infinuated him to be
a party to the plot; which effectually turned the fcales.
Whether CÆSAR was really concerned in this affair, or
CATO's fufpicions were falfe, has furniſhed the world with
matter of diſpute; SALUST leaves his reputation clear,
and
1
OF CESAR.
XXV
1
and truly CÆSAR had fo many enemies in the fenate at
that juncture, amongſt which number was the conſul him-
felf, they would gladly have laid hold of ſo fair an oppor-
tunity to have delivered themſelves from a perſon whoſe
popularity gave them fo many fears. Befides, if CÆSAR,
as SUETONIUS informs us, declined embarking with LEPI-
DUS, much more would he have avoided an intimacy with
fuch ſhallow plotters as theſe, who admitted ftrumpets into
their councils on the contrary it appears, they were fo
angry for want of a lawful pretence to diſpatch him, that
CICERO's guards (by whofe inftigation may be eafily judg-
ed) had like to have ſent him to the other world, without
the formality of a fentence: but the conful, it ſeems,
thought better of it, covered CAESAR with his gown, and
fo preferved his life
Thus finding himſelf as much hated by the nobility, as
beloved by the common people, his countenancing the tri-
bune METELLUS, when he preferred laws in favour of the
latter, may be the more eafily excufed. Upon this, however,
the fenate deprived him of his prætorfhip, but reſtored it
again, and returned him thanks, when they found he mo-
deftly declined doing himſelf juftice by that force the people
proffered.
His prætorfhip ended, which gave him more trouble than
any office he ever difcharged before or after, CÆSAR was
chofen governor of the farther Spain. His creditors, who
were very numerous, grew mighty uneafy at the thoughts
of his leaving Rome before they were paid. Wherefore,
to fatisfy the moſt importunate, he got CRASSUS to be
engaged for him, as far as eight hundred and thirty ta
lents; then purfued his intended journey. Paffing by a
fmall village on the Alps, inhabited by a few miferable
wretches, his friends in jeft demanded, "Whether he
thought the people had any difputes for offices, or feuds
about elections there? No, replied CAESAR; but I affure
you fincerely, I would rather be the firft amongſt theſe,
than the ſecond man at Rome." They tell you likewife,
as a farther inſtance of his ambition, he uſed frequently to
repeat two verſes of EURIPIDES, which he thus inverted :
Nam fi violandum eft jus, regnandi gratia
Violandum eft; aliis rebus pietatem colas.
If violation of the laws admit
Of reaſon, empire muſt the failing quit;
In other things to piety fubmit.
}
Yet
xxvi
THE LIFE
J
t
Yet even the fage PLUTARCH agrees, CESAR Would
have been contented with an equal, POM PE Y would
not.
Arriving in Spain, he foon raifed a confiderable army,
reduced Portugal and Gallicia; then puſhing his fuccefs,
advanced higher, and carried his arms as far that way as
the ocean would permit. Thus he proved himſelf an able
general; nor had the world lefs reafon to think him a
wife civil magiftrate, from the wholeſome laws he made
for the peace, and quiet government of the province.
This fuccefs, when the year expired, entitled him to a
triumph; but that interfering with his pretenfions to the
confulate, fince CATO's management hindered his obtain-
ing both, he wifely declined the former, entered Rome
as a private perfon, and with BIBULUS was chofen con-
ful.
This was the fecond time BIBULUS had the misfor-
tune of being joined in publick office with CESAR, who
as far eclipfed him now, as when formerly edile: For
whereas CESAR only relied on the people's favour be-
fore, now he had ingratiated himſelf with the two moft con-
fidérable perfons in Rome, by reconciling PO M P E Y and
CRASSUS, whilft each of them courted him to be of his,
party. By this action he did not only gain both their
friendſhips, but was adored by all men, except CA TO,
for a peace-maker, whofe perpetual jealoufies forefaw
fatal events from that triumvirate, though without any ap-
parent reafons: Which, PLUTARCH obferves, then acquir-
ed him the title of a fullen bufy man, though afterwards
of a wife and unfortunate counfellor for his cafe was ex-
actly the fame with that prophetefs's, tho always fpoke
truth, but was never believed. And indeed his opinion
was more the effect of forefight than of any juft ground;
for fo long as that alliance continued, Rome enjoyed her
imaginary freedom; for in reality fhe had never been free
fince the days
of MARIUS. But to a people that had al-
ways been governed by two, the name of a fingle magi-
ftrate, or king, was a dreadful found, a magick word fuf-
ficient at any time to conjure up civil difcord, and act the
moſt folemn murders under the fpecious name of allerting
liberty. And this was the fatal word which afterwards colt
CESAR his life.
Thus having matched his daughter JULIA to POMPEY,
being fupported both by him and CRASSUS, CÆSAR was
equal to either of them and had not the latter's untimely
death
OF CESAR.
xxvii
death in Parthia, left the other two fole difputants for the
fupreme power, thofe wars, which coft Rome ſo much of
her pureft blood, had never happened: for when there is
only one life between ambition and a crown, the object ap-
pears ſo near and fo lovely, few are able to withſtand the
temptation; but in defpite of laws, human and divine,
give a lopfe to their defires. Thus, in all probability,
CROMWELL had not been inftrumental in cutting off the
ROYAL MARTYR's head, had not the lord THOMAS
FAIRFAX, reflecting on the cauſe his miſtaken zeal em-
barked him in, laid down his command, a fecond error,
more fatal than the former; for this put it out of his power
to preſerve the king; and all he could do afterwards, was
little more than to fend his wishes for the reſtoration of the
royal line.
Thus CESAR having by the intereft of CRASSUS and
POMPEY, notwithſtanding BIBULUS oppofed them, paffed
ſuch edicts, as made him more popular than before, and
diſcharged the office of conful much to his own fatisfaction,
obtained the Government of Illyricum, and both the pro-
yinces of Gaul; where PLUTARCH informs us, in nine
years time he took five hundred towns by ftorm, conquer-
ed three hundred ſtates, engaged three millions of men at
feveral times, killed one third, and took another. But
for a farther account of his glorious exploits in that country,
of his actions in Italy, Spain, Greece, Alexandria, Afia,
and Africk, I refer you to the following memoirs; having
only thus far deduced his life, in the nature of a ſhort
appendix to this verfion. Let it fuffice therefore to acquaint
you, fo long as CRASSUS and CÆSAR's daughter JULIA
lived, POMPEY and he were in perfect friendſhip with
each other the greateſt men at Rome made their court to
him, POMPEY, CRASSUS, APPIUS, the prætor of Sardi-
nia, and NEPOS, proconful of Spain, at once attended him
at Lucca, where one hundred and twenty lictors, and
above two hundred fenators, were prefent. In fhort, the
management of affairs at Rome was wholly decided by
theſe three powerful men. But when CRASSUS died,
CÆSAR and POMPEY fell out; fo the civil wars
began.
How much induftry, conduct, and courage, how much
mercy he ſhewed to his enemies, and how well he was be-
loved by his own foldiers, let every page in the following
hiſtory witness for him. Even CATO himfelf, had not
defpair carried him out of the world, might have furvived
the
1
xxviii
LIFE
THE
the lofs of UTICA. When CESAR heard of it, he ſaid,
"O CATO! how much do I envy thee thy death, fince
thou haft prevented me the honour of pardoning thee!"
But CATO's fons lived to taſte of his mercy; CASSIUS and
BRUTUS, who afterwards killed him, were received into
favour; and nobody afked forgivenefs in vain.
Thus giddy with the wondrous height fortune had raiſed
him to, he returned to Rome, after the defeat of young
CNEIUS POMPEY; here he was allowed five feveral
triumphs, for Egypt, Pontus, Africk, Gaul, and Spain.
Being declared perpetual dictator, he rewarded thoſe who
had well deſerved from his friendſhip, and promoted fome
of his enemies. But the people enjoying peace, and hav-
ing leifure to reflect how laviſh they had been, were for
reaffuming their mighty grant. This could not be done
without an affaffination; but inftruments were quickly
found, and the ungrateful BRUTUS, partly prompted by
ambition, partly by old prophecies trumped up to ſerve
that particular turn, and the vanity of imitating his an-
ceftor, that expelled the TARQUINS, became leader of this
faction. Yet the confufion Rome was in after the bloody
deed committed, is a fhrewd argument, revenge had a
greater fhare in the action than any other defign. But di-
vine juſtice did not long permit fuch an inhuman murder
to go unrevenged, for all the affaffins came to an untimely
end; CASSIUS killed himſelf with the fame dagger that
wound CÆSAR, and BRUTUS's ill genius overtook him at
Philippi.
The fenate houſe was the place where this tragedy was
acted; many were the accomplices, when cÆSAR, having
received three and twenty wounds, expired. If ever man
was predeftined to die by a certain time, he furely was ;
for divers portentous tokens warned him to beware the fatal
day; nay, he had actually a lift of the confpirators names,
with an account of their defign, given him as he was walk-
ing to the place, from whence he never returned alive:
but fortune in all ages has made the cataftrophe of heroes
very remarkable; having promoted CESAR to the greateft
honours man ever obtained, fhe fhewed him her lateſt
friendſhip in granting him his defire of a fudden death, be-
fore fhe recalled her uncertain favours. Thus fell the great
JULIUS CESAR on the fifteenth of march, in the fifty-
fixth year of his age, having only furvived his rival four,
and founded the Roman empire in his own blood; for after
his deceaſe the common-wealth became an abſolute monar-
chy,
و.
OF CESAR
xxix
chy, the conftant fate of ill governed republicks. He had
only the fingle failing of ambition to prove him mortal; yet
affuming fupreme authority, was no more than what the
fafety of his perfon required, for otherwiſe it would have
fallen into POMPEY's hands, and then the confequence muſt
have proved fatal to CÆSAR: but the greateſt uſe he made
of power was to pardon thoſe that offended him. Many
were the honours decreed his memory, and his name was
the title of eleven fucceeding emperors.
}
THE
1
XXX
THE
CONTENTS
O F
C. J. CÆSAR'S Commentaries.
G
TUS.
CÆSAR's war with the Gauls.
BOOK I.
wife,
are
AUL defcribed: invaded by the Swiss, who are worſi-
ed by CÆSAR in two battles. His war with ARIOVIS-
The Germans driven out of Gaul.
BOOK II.
P. I
His war with the confederate Belga. His fuccefs in Picar-
die and Hainault.
BOOK III.
P. 29
The war with the people of Valais, Vannes, Eureux, Cou-
tances, Gafcoin, Teroüenne and Guelders.
BOOK IV.
P. 45
The inhabitants of Zutphen and Heffe, drive those of Guel-
ders out of their country; but are defeated by CESAR. His
expedition into Germany and England.
BOOK V.
P. 59
CASAR builds a confiderable navy. He goes to Illyricum.
His fecond expedition into England. The Gauls revolt.
SABINUS and COTTA defeated. CICERO befieged, but
relieved.
BOOK VI.
P. 77
CESAR having reduced the Hainaultois, and received the
fubmiffion of thofe of Sens and Chartres, defeats the people
of Gueldres. LABIENUS has the like fuccefs in Treves.
ČESAR makes a second expedition into Germany. The
Sicambri attack his Camp, which he defends with fome
lofs, and having laid waste the country of Liege, returns
to Italy.
BOOK VII.
p. 106
A general revolt of the Gauls; who choose VERCINGETO-
RIX for their leader. CAESAR takes feveral places. The
ficge
THE CONTENTS.
xxxi
fiege of Bourges. Divifions in Autun. The fiege of Clere-
mont; where the Romans are repulfed with loss. La-
BIENUS's fuccefs at Paris. VERCINGETORIX's prepa-
rations; and the fiege of Alexia.
P. 128
AULUS HIRTIUS PANSA, OF OPPIUS's ſupplement
to the war in Gaul.
BOOK VIII.
A. HIRTIUS's preface to his book.
New commotions in
Gaul. Berry and Chartres laid waste by CESAR. Beau-
vois and feveral other states fubdued. Rebellion in Poic-
tou, Chartres, Normandy, and Britain, quelled by c. FA-
BIUS. A victory obtained by CANINIUS; Ufeldon taken
by CÆSAR. COMIUS defeated and pardoned.
The fol-
lowing year, the whole kingdom of Gaul being quitted,
CAESAR's enemies at Rome confpire against him.
P. 175
The contents of the civil war with POMPEY.
BOOK I.
The caufes of the civil war. CAESAR gains the poffeffion of
intire Italy. Befieges POMPEY in Brundufium. Takes
the town, but PUMP: Y efcapes. CAESAR's party prevails
against COTTA in Sardinia, and CATO in Sicily. CAESAR
marches to Rome: Returns to Gaul: Then befieges Mar-
feilles. His fuccefs in Spain.
BOOK II.
P. 200
Marſeilles clofely befieged. On NASIDIUS arrival a fecond
fea-fight, with ill fuccefs on the fide of the besieged. TRE-
BONIUS's wonderful works. The besieged demand a truce,
which they break themſelves, but at left furrender. VAR-
RO deferted. He falls into CAESAR's power. CURIO at
firft has good fuccefs in Africk, but engaging rafhly after-
wards, is cut to pieces with his whole army.
BOOK III.
P. 246
CASAR and POMPEY their preparations. CESAR goes into
Greece The Siege of Salona. POMPEY retires to Du-
TAZZO BIBULUS dies. Propofitions of Peace rejected.
Tumults at Rome compofed. ANTONY and KALENUS
join CÆSAR. SCIPIO's tyranny in Afia. His arrival in
Macedonia. POMPEY besieged by CESAR at Durazzo.
Skirmiſbes with various fuccefs. CASAR quits the fiege:
Draws POMPEY into Theffaly. Engages and defeats him.
LAELIUS befieges Brundufium. CASSIUS burns CAESAR'S
Lips
xxxii
THE CONTENT S.
Ships in Sicily. POMPEY killed in Egypt by ARCHILLAS
and SEPTIMIUS. CESAR goes to Alexandria; where he
is engaged in another war.
P. 271
The contents of AULUS HIRTIUS, or OP PIUS'S
commentary of the Alexandrian war.
The war continued. CÆSAR's fuccefs at fea. He narrow-
ly eſcapes by ſwimming. The King fet at liberty, turns an
Enemy. An end of the war. The defeat of DOMITIUS
CALVINUS. CASSIUS LONGINUS's extortions in Spain,
occafion an infurrection. The defeat of PHARNACES, and
CÆSAR's return to Italy.
P. 327
The contents of the African war,
CAESAR having compofed the troubles of Rome, fails for
Africk. Gains Leptis. Has feveral ſkirmishes with la-
BIENUS. JUBA, going to join SCIPIO, is forced to return,
on news that BOGUD had entered his country. The various
fuccefs of the war on both fides, towns loft and taken, ſhips
taken, but fortune inclines to CÆSAR. A fet battle, and
SCIPIO defeated. The death of CATO, and feveral other
perfons of note. JUBA's Kingdom reduced into a province.
P. 364
The contents of the Spaniſh war.
CÆSAR's arrival in Spain. The occafion of the war. The
battle of Munda; the taking of Cordova and Seville. The
death of POMPEY's eldest fon. The taking of Munda ;
the fiege of Urfaon; and CÆSAR's laſt ſpeech.
P. 499
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C. J. CÆSAR's
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The FIRST BOOK.
Gaul defcribed: Invaded by the Swiss; who are
worsted by CESAR in two battles: His war with
ARIOVISTUS: The Germans driven cut of Gaul,
G
CHAP. I.
to Gallia
AUL is divided into three parts, each inha- Gaul divid-
bited by people of different language, laws, ed. But this
and cuſtoms, the Belgæ, Aquitains, and Celta, relates only
as they call themſelves, but we the Gauls. The Comata,
laft of theſe are divided from the Aquitains by the river
Garonne; and by the Maern and Seine from the Belgæ,
the moſt warlike people of the three, as they are the greateſt
ftrangers to the politenefs of the Province, hold little com-
merce with merchants who import fuch commodities as
miniſter to luxury, and are fituated next the Germans be-
yond the Rhine, with whom they are perpetually at war.
For which reafon the Swifs likewiſe are more hardy than
the Gauls, becauſe they and their German neighbours are
in a continued ftate of hoftility, each of them ftriving
to encroach on the other's dominions. The territories of
the Gauls, commencing at the river Rhofne, are bounded
B
by
2
Book 1;
C. J. CESAR'S
"
WAR in by the Garonne, the ocean, and the Belgæ, and inclining
GAUL. northward, extend through Franchecomte and the Swifs to
Orgetorix
perfuades
the Swiſs to
the Rhine. Belgia, which lies north-eaft, adjoining to the
farther confines of Gaul, reaches as far as the lower Rhine;
and Aquitania or Gascony, ſpreading between the Ga-
ronne and Pyrenees, bounds north-weft upon the Spaniſh
ocean.
2. During the confulat of M. MESSALA and M. PISO,
ORGETORIX, the moſt confiderable man amongſt the
invade Gaul, Swifs, as well for birth as riches, being prompted by ambi-
tion, engaged the nobility in his intereft, and perfuaded
the people to quit their country in an entire body; by
afluring them, that the
Orgetorix
fent embaf-
fo far excelled all other
out much difficulty make
which they were the more
nations in valour, might
themſelves maſters of Gaul;
eafily induced to, by the cloſeneſs of their own dominions,
divided on one fide by the Rhine, a broad and deep river,
from the Germans; on another by the inacceffible moun-
tains of St. Claud from Franchecomte; and on the third
by the lake of Geneva and the river Rhofne from our
province. Being thus enclofed, they wanted opportunities
of enlarging their territories, or invading their neighbours ;
nor was it a little irkſome to a numerous and warlike peo-
ple, to ſee themſelves confined within fuch narrow limits,
as thoſe of a country extending but 240 miles in length,
and 180 in breadth.
3. Theſe circumſtances, fo luckily concurring with the
authority of ORGETORIX, had that effect, that the peo-
ple unanimoufly refolved to prepare for the expedition;
whereupon they bought up confiderable numbers of wag-
gons and beafts for carriage, tilled their ground, that they
might have plenty of corn in their journey, and made a
peace with all their neighbours: two years time they
thought fufficient to complete their preparations, and
obliged themfelves, by a law, to begin their march the third.
CHA P. II.
THE management of this important deſign was com-
fador to the mitted to the fole conduct of ORGETORIX, whom they
neighbour- deputed their embaſſador to the neighbouring ſtates. He
ing ftates.
perfuaded CASTICUS, the fon of CATAMANTALIDES
of Franchecomte, where he had reigned many years, and
been honoured by the fenate and people of Rome with
the name of friend, to take upon him the fovereignty of
that ſtate, which his father formerly enjoyed; the fame
I
advice
!
Book I.
3
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
advice he gave to the brother of DIVITIACUS, DUMNORIX WAR Ín
of Autun, a man of the beſt intereſt in that province, to
whom he married his daughter; he demonftrated how
eaſily they might compafs their defign; and promifſed, ſo
foon as he had conquered Gaul with his Swifs, whofe fub-
jection he was already affured of, to fettle each of them in
a kingdom there by the affiftance of his forces; where-
upon they entered into a league, promifing themſelves the
entire poffeffion of Gaul, by the mutual affiftance of three
fuch potent nations.
4. The Swifs having notice of this ambitious view of
ORGETORIX, according to their ufual cuftom, arrefted
him, that he might be brou
been paffed upon him, he n
a trial; and had ſentence
have been burnt alive but
he took care by the day appointed to have all his relations,
friends, clients, and debtors, to the number of 10,000
men, ready to reſcue him from the hands of juftice;
which ſo incenſed the people, that they agreed the ma-
giftrates fhould raife the power of the country, and exe-
cute the laws by force; but before they could do it, OR- Orgetorix,te
GETORIX was found dead, not without ſtrong ſuſpicion of avoid judg-
having laid violent hands on himſelf.
5. The Swifs, continuing their refolution, notwithſtand-
ing his death, purfued their intended journey; and to take
away all hopes of return, before they fet forward, put
fire to their twelve cities, four hundred villages, feveral
private houſes, and confumed all the corn, except what
each man was allowed to carry out of the country, which
was provifion only for three months.
The people of Bafil, Stulingen, and Laufane refolved
to follow their neighbours examples, and fet fire to
their houſes, intending to fhare the fame fortune, car-
rying along with them the Boii, who, having paffed the
Rhine, had taken the capital of Bavier, and feated them-
felves there.
6. They had only two ways to go out of their country,
one through Franchecomte, between the mountain Jura
and the river Rhofne, which was fo very narrow and diffi-
cult, that in fome places a cart could hardly pafs; where
their journey might eafily have been ſtopped by an in-
confiderable force, pofted on the top of the impending
mountains; the other lay through our province, which
was much the eafier and fhorter cut; for the river
Rhofne, which runs between the Swifs and Savoyards, a
people lately conquered by the Romans, was fordable in
feveral places; befides, the bridge at Geneva (which is
B 2
the
ment, kills
himſelf.
1
*
4
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR in the fartheft town the Savoyards have on that fide) was
GAUL. theirs; and they doubted not but their neighbours, who
feemed to fubmit with reluctance to the Roman yoke,
would readily grant them the liberty of paffing through
their country; which, if denied, they could obtain by
force: wherefore having prepared all things for their
journey, they appointed the eight and twentieth day of
March, in the confulat of L. PISO and A. GABINIUS,
for their general rendezvous on the banks of the river
Rhofne.
Cæfar takes
poft for
Gaul.
demand a
paffage
through his
government,
CHA P. III.
d notice of their defign to
7. SO foon as CÆSAR
pafs through his governm e immediately left Rome,
took poft for the further aul; and being arrived at
Geneva, ordered the bridge to be cut down, and raiſed a
confiderable number of freſh forces in all parts of the
The Swiss province, for he had but one legion there. The Swiſs
being informed of his arrival, fent NUMEIUS and VERO-
DOCTIUS with fome other noblemen of the firſt rank,
their embaffadors, to defire he would permit them to paſs
peaceably through his province, for they had no other
way to profecute their journey: but CASAR remembring
how the conful L. CASSIUS loft his life, how his army
was put to the rout, and his foldiers forced to paſs under
the yoke, held it not confiftent with the honour of the
empire to grant their requeft; not did he think it pof-
fible for fo barbarous a people to pass through the coun-
try without committing fome outrages. However, to
gain further time 'till his new levies were completed, he
told the embaffadors he would confider of their demand,
and if they returned on the thirteenth of April following,
they fhould have his anſwer.
8. In the mean time CÆSAR, with the veteran legion,
and the new levies that came in from all parts of the Pro-
vince, caft up an intrencl.ment, raiſed a wall fixteen
foot high, and nineteen miles in length, from the Lake of
Geneva, where the Rhofne flows into it, to the banks over:
againſt the Mountains of Jura, which divide the people of
Franchecomte from the Swifs, and built little forts all
along the work in the moft commodious places, to pre-
vent their paffage in cafe they fhould attempt it by
ftorm. At the day appointed, when the deputies re-
turned for their anfwer, he pofitively denied their re-
but are de queft, faying, "He knew no precedent of the like nature
amongſt the Romans which could juftify his conduct;
Died.
and
Book I. COMMENTARIES.
5
WAR
and therefore, fhould they endeavour to force their way, War in
he was obliged to oppoſe them."
CHA P. IV.
GAUL.
over the ri-
MEETING fo unexpected a denial, fome endea- They endea-
voured to ford the river where it was fhalloweft, whilft vour to get
others attempted to make a bridge of boats, on which ver, but are
they worked with great application in the night, and fome- difappoint-
times by day; but being warmly received by the foldiers ed.
on the other fide, and repulfed with darts from the forti-
fications, finding their defis impracticable, they at laſt
defifted.
9. They had now no oner way left but that through
Franchecomte, which was fo narrow they could not pafs
without leave of the inhabitants, which they could not ob-
tain; wherefore they fent embaffadors to DUMNORIX of
Autun, to beg his interceffion in their behalf. DUM-
NORIX, whofe engaging carriage and generofity had gained
him the affection of the Franchecomtois, was inclinable
enough to ferve the Swifs, having married from that
country the daughter of ORGETORIX; befides, intend-
ing to make himſelf abfolute, he was glad of an oppor-
tunity to oblige fo potent a people, who might hereafter be
ſerviceable to him in his defigns: he undertook the buſi-
nefs, and fucceeded to fatisfaction, for the Franchecomtois Dumnorix
agreed to let the Swifs pafs through their country, upon gets the
delivery of mutual hoftages, thefe for their peaceable be- Swifs leave
haviour, and the other not to interrupt their paffage. through
to pafs
io. CESAR hearing the Swifs defigned to march through Franche-
Franchecomte and the territories of Autun to the confines comte.
of Xantonge, not far from Tholouſe, which is ſituated in
the Roman province, forefaw what would be the con-
fequence, if fo troublefome neighbours, mortal enemies
to the people of Rome, once poffeffed themſelves of ſo
open and plentiful a country. Wherefore committing the
charge of his new works to his lieutenant T. LABIENUS,
he made the best of his way to Italy, where he raiſed two
legions, and drew three more out of their winter-quarters
about Aquileia; with which forces he repaffed the Alps.
In his way to the further Gaul, the inhabitants of Taran-
taife, of the valley of Morienne and Ambrun, poffeffed
themſelves of the paffes, defigning to oppofe his march;
but having often repulfed them, he arrived firft at Ocello,
in the extremes of the Cifalpine province, next at Vocon-
tium, at the entrance into the Tranfalpine province, and
B 3
in
है-
રે
6
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
}
WAR in in feven days from his firft fetting out: from thence he
GAUL. carried his army through Savoy to Foreft, the next neigh-
bours to the Roman province on the other fide the
Rhofne.
The Swifs
11. In the mean time the Swifs, having paffed the
lay warte the freights of Fran thecomte, and entered the province of
country of Autun, began to ravage the country, which obliged the
Autun.
people, who were not in a capacity to refift then, to fend
to CÆSAR for affiftance, alledging they had never merited
fo ill from Rome, that fhe fhould fuffer their fields to be
burnt, their children to be made captives, and their towns
taken, even in the view of
army: at the fame time
arrived meffengers from eople of Charolais, allies
and friends to thofe of Autun, to complain, that their
country was laid waſte, and that they were ſcarce able to
defend their towns againſt the Swiſs; and thoſe of Dau-
phine likewiſe, who dwelt on the other fide of the Rhofne,
fled to CÆSAR for protection, affuring him that all their
cities were laid even with the ground; which moved his
compaffion fo much, that he refolved not, to wait for the
enemy 'till his allies were ruined, and the Swiss arrived
at Xantonge.
12. The waters of the river Soane, which waſh the
confines of Franchecomte and Autun, flow into the
Rhone fo very flowly, that 'tis difficult to diftinguiſh
which way they glide. This river the Swifs were croffing
on a bridge of boats, when CÆSAR, upon his fpies bring-
ing him intelligence that all their forces, except a fourth
part, had croffed the river, about midnight left his camp,
"Cæfar falls and fell upon the remainder with three legions, whilst they
upon the
were unprepared and encumbered with their baggage,
three fourths put a great number of them to the fword, and routed
had paffed the reft, who fled for ſhelter to the neighbouring woods.
Swifs when
the river.
The Swifs were divided into four cantons, and the de-
feated were the natives of Zurich, who alone, leaving
their country, in the memory of our fathers, flew L.
CASSIUS the conful, and made his army pafs under the
yoke: fo whether it were by chance, or the peculiar pro-
vidence of heaven, that very canton which formerly gave
the Romans fo fatal a ftroke, was the firſt that felt the
weight of vengeance; nor did CAESAR lefs gratify his
private than the publick revenge in this victory, for L. PISO,
grandfather to L. PISO, whofe daughter he had married,
fell in the battle fought with thofe of Zurich, when CAS-
SIUS loft his life.
CHAP.
1
Book I. COMMENTARIES.
7.
CHA P. V.
i
GAUL.
fend cmbaf-
AFTER this defeat CESAR threw a bridge crofs WAR in
13.
the Soane, that he might purſue the reft of the enemy;
who underſtanding he had croffed the river in one day, ~
which they could hardly do in twenty, were fo furprifed
and daunted at his approach, that they immediately fent The Swifs
embaſſadors to his camp. Their ſpeaker was DIVICUS, fadors to de-
commander in chief at the battle where CASSIUS was fire a peace,
flain; who being introduced to CESAR, fpoke to this
effect: That if the Romans concluded a peace with Their
the Swifs, they would fubmit march to any place which ſpeech.
CESAR fhould think fit to them; but if he intend-
ed to carry on the war, he would do well to remember the
overthrow which the people of Rome formerly received.
from their valour, and not be puffed up with fuccefs,
for having ſurpriſed a fmall party, whilft the reft of the
army could not come to their affiftance: for their parts,
they had learnt from their anceſtors to contend by force,
but ſcorned deceit; and therefore it imported the Romans
to beware, left the place where they pitched their camp
fhould obtain, to their infinite forrow, a memorable name
from the deftruction of their army."
14. To this CESAR anfwered, "That he had lefs Cefai's an-
reaſon to heſitate concerning the fteps he fhould take, as fwer,
thofe actions the embaffadors mentioned were ftill freſh
in his memory; that he had the more reaſon to refent
them as they were committed againſt the Romans with-
out the leaft provocation, who, if they had been conſcious
of giving any, might eafily have been prepared to de-
fend themfelves; but fecure in their innocence, they
knew not how to harbour any apprehenfions of danger.
That if he could perfuade himſelf to forget former in-
juries, freſh inſolences would revive them, their attempt-
ing to force a paffage through his province, and their
facking Autun, Charolais, and Dauphine: That they boaſted
with fuch arrogance of their victory, and prided them-
ſelves in their ſafety, only tended to their ruin; for the
Gods fometimes permit mankind to glory in impunity for
a while, that vengeance, being lefs expected, may fall
the heavier: however, if they would deliver hoſtages for
the performance of what they propofed, if they would
make the provinces of Autun and Dauphine, with their
allies, reftitution for the damage they had done them, he
was contented there fhould be a peace." But DIVICUS
B 4
replied,
8
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR in replied, " 'Twas not the cuſtom of the Swiſs to deliver
GAUL. hoftages, but receive them ;" and fo departed.
Lifcus's
fpeech; he
15. The next day they decamped, and fo did CAESAR,
fending all his horfe before (which he had levied in the
Province and the country of Autun, to the number of
4000) to obſerve the enemy's motions, who following too
clofe, fell in with their rear, and being obliged to engage
at a diſadvantage, a few of them were killed. The Swifs,
encouraged by their ſucceſs in this rencounter, where they
had maintained their ground with five hundred horfe
againſt fo confiderable a number, prefumed fometimes
to fally from their rear, and irmiſh with our van-guard;
but CESAR reſtrained his from fighting, being con-
tented, for the prefent, to prevent the enemy's plundering
the country, and fo continued his march fifteen days fuc-
ceffively, keeping his van-guard conftantly within five or
fix miles of the enemy's rear.
CHAP.
VI.
16. CÆSAR in the mean time preffed the people of
Autun for the ſupplies of corn which they had promiſed;
for Gaul lying northward in a very cold climate, their
corn was not ripe, and their paſtures ſcarce afforded forage
enough for the horſes; nor could the Romans receive
any more proviſions by the way of the Soane, for the
enemy, whofe motions they conftantly purfued, had
marched directly from that river. The Autunois ftill
putting CESAR off from time to time, on pretence the
corn was coming, 'till the day for delivering out provi-
fions to the army was just arrived, he ordered DIVITIA-
CUS and LISCUS, the chief magiſtrates (whom they ſtyle
Vergobret, and create yearly, with power of life and
death) with the reft of the noblemen of that country, for
he had many of them in his camp, to attend him: theſe
he feverely reprimanded, for difappointing him of their
contributions at fo important a conjuncture, whilft the
enemy was ſo near, when there was no corn in the
country, nor any to be procured for money; adding, he
had reaſon to take it very ill that they fhould defert him,
when, at their requeft, he engaged in that war for their
defence.
17. Whereupon LISCUS, moved by CASR's fpeech,
difcovers the ingenuously declared what he had fo long kept fecret,
treachery of "That there were fome private perfons of greater au-
Dumnorix. thority amongst the people than they who bore the title
of
Book I. COMMENTARIES.
1
་་
of magiftrates; that theſe had feditiouſly diffuaded them WA R..
from bringing in their corn, infinuating, that fince they GAUL.
could not obtain the empire of Gaul themſelves, it was
better to be ſubject to the Gauls than the Romans; for,
they might depend upon it, fo foon as the Romans had
fubdued the Swifs, they and their neighbours would be
bereft of their liberty: that from theſe the enemy re-
ceived conftant intelligence of all that paffed in the camp;
and that he endangered the lofs of his life by fpeaking fo
freely, which was the reafon he had not informed him of
it fooner, for the perfons he meant were grown too big to
be reſtrained by the laws."
•
18. CASAR perceived by scus's fpeech, that DUM-
NORIX, DIVITIACUS's brother, was pointed at; but
thinking it improper to hold further diſcourſe about an
affair of that nature in publick, he immediately difmiffed
the council, and retaining only LISCUS, afked him ſeveral
queſtions about the matter, which he anſwered with an
honeft freedom; and enquiring further, he found it con-
firmed from other hands, "That DUMNORIX. was a Dumnorix's
man of ſpirit and enterprize, a mighty favourite of the character.
common people, becauſe of his liberality; that he had
for many years farmed the publick taxes of Autun at an
under-rate, no man daring to interfere with his intereſt;
by which means he had confiderably enriched his private.
patrimony, found the means to be liberal, and was fo rich,
that he conftantly maintained a great number of horse-
men, who waited on him wherever he went: that he was
not only powerful at home, but had a conſiderable intereſt
abroad amongſt the neighbouring ſtates, for he had mar-
ried his mother to the richeſt nobleman in Berry, had
taken a wife for himſelf from amongst the Swifs, and
matched his fifter by the mother's fide, with the rest of his
kindred, into other countries: that for the fake of affinity
he was a well-wisher to the Swifs, and hated the Romans,
eſpecially CÆSAR, becaufe by their arrival in Gaul his
authority was eclipfed, and his brother reſtored to his an-
cient dignity: that he hoped to obtain the fovereignty by
the affiftance of the Swifs, in cafe the Romans fhould be
defeated; whereas their fuccefs made him defpair not only
of a crown, but of keeping the authority he had left."
And CÆSAR was further informed, "That when his
cavalry was routed, DUMNORIX and his party were the
firſt that fled, for to his charge were committed the horſe
which the people of Autun had fent to CAESAR's afliftance,
4
whofe
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book I.
AR in whofe bad example ftruck a terror into the reft of the
GAUL. foldiers."
Cæfar is in-
brother,
19. Theſe fufpicions were backed by certain proofs;
for DUMNORIX was accufed by the magiftrates, for having
procured the Swifs a paffage through Franchecomte, on
delivery of mutual hoftages between them and the people
of that country, without the privity or confent either of
CASAR or thofe of his own nation; wherefore he thought
he had fufficient reaſon either to puniſh him himſelf, or
cauſe him to be tried according to the laws of his own
country; which he had immediately done but for his
brother DIVITIACUS's fa a man of fingular loyalty,
temperance, and juſtice, had given conftant proofs
of his affection to CESAR and the people of Rome;
for which reafon, before he made any farther progreſs,
he fent for DIVITIACUS, and making uſe of no other
interpreter but C. VALERIUS PROCILLUS, a prince
of Gaul, his particular acquaintance, in whom he te-
pofed great confidence, acquainted him what he had
heard of his brother, at the general council of the Gauls,
and what private confirmation he had of the matter after-
wards, defiring that he would either cauſe him to be tried
according to the laws of Autun, or not take it ill, if he
himſelf fhould inflict that puniſhment on his crime which
he deferved.
with
>>
20. Whereupon DIVITIACUS embracing CÆSAR,
treated by tears in his eyes,
"intreated him that he would not
Divitiacus
to pardon his uſe his brother feverely; for though he knew him to be
guilty of all that was laid to his charge, and had more
reaſon to be afflicted at it than any man, becauſe he had
employ'd that fortune which he was indebted to him for,
in ruining his credit both at home and abroad, yet he
could not baniſh natural affection: befides, the people,
knowing what a favourite he was with CESAR, would
attribute DUM NORIX's ruin to his advice; which would
make him be detefted throughout the whole province.
CESAR feeing DIVITIACUS in fo great concern, took
him by the hand, and ordered him to dry up his tears, for
he had fo particular an eſteem for him, that for his fake
he would forgive the injury his brother had done the com-
monwealth, and the affront he himſelf had received.
Then fending for DUMNORIX, he reprimanded him in
the prefence of his brother, telling him what crimes he
could charge him with from his own knowledge, and
what complaints his countrymen had made againſt him,
which, for once, at the requeſt of DIVITIACUS, he par-
which he
does ;
but repri-
mands him
feverely.
doned;
Book I.
II
COMMENTARIES.
doned; but bid him take care how he behaved himſelf WAR in
for the future, for he had ſuch ſpies upon him as would GAUL.
take notice of his carriage, and whom he converſed with.
21. The fame day, having intelligence that the enemy
had lodged themſelves under a hill, about eight miles diftant
from his camp, CESAR fent out a party to take a view
of the afcent, which they reported to be very easy;
whereupon he detached his lieutenant T. LABIENUS
about midnight with two legions and able guides, order-
ing him to gain the top of the hill; and he himſelf about
three hours after, fending the cavalry before, followed the
fame way with the reft of themy. P. CAUSIDIUs, an
experienced foldier, who had ferved firft under L. SYLLA,
and afterwards under M. CRASSUS, was detached with a
fmall party to diſcover the poſture of the enemy.
22. By break of day CAUSIDIUS was arrived within a
mile and a half of the enemy's camp, when LABIENUS had
actually poſted himſelf on the top of the hill, unknown to
the enemy, who neither dreamt of his nor CAUSIDIUS'S
approach (as we were informed afterwards by the pri-
foners.) CAUSIDIUS however came riding back with Caufidius's
full fpeed, to acquaint CÆSAR, that the enemy were
fear, and
falfe report.
maſters of the place which he ordered LABIENUS to
poffefs, as he plainly difcovered by the Swifs colours;
whereupon CÆSAR retiring to the next hill, drew his army
up in order of battle: LABIENUS in the mean time
having gained the rifing ground, waited for our army, in
purſuance of the orders given him not to engage the enemy
'till he faw our forces near their camp, that the attack
might be made on all fides at once. But afterward,
when the day was far fpent, CESAR was informed by his
fpies, that our foldiers were in poffeffion of the hill, that
the enemy had decamped, and that CAUSIDIUS's fear
made him report what he never faw; fo he followed the
enemy at the uſual diſtance the reſt of that day, and en-
camped within three miles of them at night.
CHAP. VII.
23. THE next day CÆSAR being within eighteen
miles of Autun, the capital of that province, and obliged Bebracte
to deliver out provifions to the army within two days af-
ter, defifted from attending the enemy's motions, and
marched directly to the city; which the Swiſs having no-
tice of from fome deferters in L. AEMILIUS's troop;
whether they imagined the Romans retreated for fear
(becauſe
12
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book I.
WAR in (becauſe they did not engage them the day before, whilft
GAUL. they had the advantage of the ground) or whether they
hoped to cut off all convoys of provifion, altering their
refolution, immediately faced about, and attacked our
army in the rear.
The Swifs
Roman rear.
24. Upon this CESAR fent the horſe to cover the foot,
attack the and drew up his forces on the next hill: his four veteran
legions he difpofed into three lines; on the fummit of the
hill he ranged the two legions of new levies lately arrived
from the hither Gaul, with the reſt of his auxiliary troops,
ſtretching out his wings fo as to cover the whole front of
the mountain; and difpof the carriages, which were
committed to the charge of the battalions on the top of
the mount, into a particular place by themfelves: the
Swifs did the like by their baggage, and having repulfed
the Roman cavalry with a numerous fquadron, caft them-
felves into a phalanx, and attacked our foremoſt ranks.
The armies,
ranged in or-
der of bat-
CHAP. VIII.
25. WHEREUPON CESAR, to take away all
hopes
of a retreat, caufed all the led-horfes to be ſent
tel, engage. away, fetting the first example by his own; then, en-
couraging his men, began the charge; the Romans, caft-
ing their pila from the rifing ground, foon broke the
enemy's phalanx, and then entered with fword in hand.
CHAP.
IX.
THE Swifs, in the mean time, were greatly incum-
bered by their targets being pierced through and pinned
together by the pila, the iron of which, hanging bent,
they could neither draw them out, nor make ufe of their
left arms to defend themſelves; wherefore, after long fa-
tigue, many of them flung away their targets, and chofe
to fight unarmed, till fainting with lofs of blood, they
began to give way, and retreated to a rifing ground about
a mile diftant from the place where the fight commenced.
Our legions purſued them to the hill, intending to force
them from their poft, but 15,000 Boii and Stulingens, the
rear and reſerve of their army, attacked the Romans in
the flank, and began to inclofe them as they were in pur-
fuit of the enemy, which the Swifs, who had retired to
the hill, perceiving, renewed the fight; whereupon part
of the Roman army was obliged to face about, and whilſt
two
+
Book I.
COMMENTARIES.
two legions engaged the Swifs, the third maintained their WAR in
ground againſt the Boii and Stulingens.
26. The battel was hot and dubious for a while, 'till
the enemy, no longer able to ſuſtain the furious charge of
the Roman legions, one part of them retired again to the
top of the hill, whilſt the reſt retreated to their baggage;
for during the whole battel, which continued from one
o'clock 'till the evening, no man faw the back of his
enemy.
CHA P. X.
GAUL.
THE enemy maintained the fight very obftinately at The Swif
their carriages till the night was far fpent, and, making entirely
ufe of their carts for a fortification, gauled our forces routed.
with their javelins from the rifing ground, and with their
pikes and halberds through the wheels of their waggons;
but after a warm difpute, our foldiers took their baggage,
and forced their camp, where a fon and daughter of
ORGETORIX Were taken prifoners. About an hundred
and thirty thouſand of the enemy made their efcape,
and marching day and night without intermiffion, ar-
rived the fourth day at the confines of Langres; for the
Romans being much wounded and fatigued, and three
days being ſpent in burying the dead, there was no pur-
fuit.
But CÆSAR took care to acquaint the people of Lan-
gres, that if they offered to affift the Swifs with any kind
of provifions, he ſhould efteem them his enemies, and treat
them as fuch within three days, for by that time he de-
figned to be there with all his forces.
CHA P. XI.
They fend a
fecond em-
peace.
27. THE Swiſs being thus reduced to the utmoſt ex-
tremity, for want of all kind of provifion, fent embaffa
dors to CESAR, who, meeting him on the road, pro- baffage for
ftrated themſelves at his feet, and with tears in their eyes,
implored peace: he commanded them to wait where they
were, without advancing any farther. So foon as he was
arrived, he enjoined them to deliver hoftages for their
behaviour, to furrender their arms, and return the de-
ferters.
Whilft they were preparing to put thefe articles in exe-
cution, about fix thoufand of the canton of Urbigenus,
either fearing they fhould be executed when they had
given
14
Book 1.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
}
GAUL.
WAR in given up their arms, or in hopes of eſcaping, fince ſo ſmall
a number could hardly be miffed out of fo great a multi-
tude, or at leaſt that their countrymen would conceal
their flight, in the beginning of the night left the Swiſs
camp, making the beft of their way to the river Rhine
and Germany.
The Swifs
28. But CESAR being informed what road they had
taken, commanded their companions to fetch them back
again, unleſs they defigned to be accounted parties in their
crime; and upon their return he uſed them as enemies:
but all the reft, after delivery of their arms, hoftages, and
deferters, he received to mercy, commanding the Swifs,
Stulingens, and people of Laufane, to return again to
their own country; and becauſe every thing was defo-
lated there, he ordered the Savoyards to furniſh them with
what corn they had occafion for, and that themſelves
ſhould rebuild the cities they had burnt; a neceffary pre-
caution, left the Germans beyond the Rhine fhould be
tempted by the richneſs of the foil, to invade their coun-
try, and make themſelves neighbours to the Roman terri-
tories in Gaul and Savoy. But the Boii were permitted
to dwell within the confines of Autun, at the interceffion
of that people, who knew them to be a warlike nation,
and who not only granted them lands, but admitted them
to the rights and privileges of natives.
29.
In the enemy's camp was found a Greek lift, con-
war ended, taining an exact account of the age and ſex of all that
had left their country, how many were able to bear arms,
how many boys, how many old men and women, each in
a feparate roll by themselves; by which it appeared the
whole number of the Swifs amounted to 263,000, of the
Stulingens to 36,000, of the people of Laufane to 14,000,
of Bafil to 23,000, and of the Boii to 32,000, be-
ing in the whole 368,000, whereof 92,000 bore arms;
and a review being made, by CÆSAR's command, of
thofe that returned to their country, the number amount-
ed to 11,000.
110.
CHA P. XII.
30. THE war with the Swifs being thus happily con-
cluded, all the ſtates and princes of Gaul fent deputies to
congratulate CÆSAR on his fuccefs, being fenfible that it
was not only a fatisfactory revenge for former injuries he
had received, but that it had obtained a peace no leſs ad-
vantageous to Gaul than their own empire, fince the Swifs
had
Book 1.
15
COMMENTARIES.
had left their country, where they wanted nothing ne- WAR in
ceffary for the fupport of life, that they might poffefs GAUL.
themſelves of fome plentiful part of the continent, and
thence have an opportunity of making the other ſtates of
Gaul their tributaries.
They likewiſe defired that CÆSAR would permit them,
at a certain day prefixed, to fummon a general affembly
of all the ftates, having matters of the higheſt importance
by the common confent of them, to lay before him.
Having obtained their defire, and the day appointed being
come, they all obliged themſelves by oath, not to reveal
the cauſe of their meeting to any perſons but ſuch as ſhould
be deputed by the general vote of the whole diet.
of Gaul.
31. The affembly breaking up, the fame deputies re- A general
turned to CÆSAR, and demanded a private audience, that aflembly of
they might impart to him fomething which concerned the princes
their common fafety. Being admitted, cafting themſelves
with tears at his feet, "They were not more urgent that
he would grant their petition, than that he would not di-
vulge it for fhould any part of it tranſpire, they would
be plunged into the laſt degree of mifery and affliction."
Arverni
DIVITIACUS, who carried the addreſs, acquainted him, Their ad-
"That Gaul was divided into two potent factions, one drefs to
headed by the Autunois, the other by thofe of Auverne. Cæfar.
Haldui
(After long contention for fuperiority, at laſt the people of
Auverne and Franchecomte begging affiftance of the
Germans, received about 15,000 of their troops into pay,
who paſſed the Rhine at their deſire, and having taſted the
plenty of the foil, and civility of the Gauls, invited more
of their countrymen over, till they were increaſed to the
number of 120,000. With thefe the Autunois had more
than once diſputed, to their infinite damage, having loſt
their cavalry, nobility, and fenate; by which misfortunes
they were fo reduced, that they, who in former days, by
their own intereſt and the favour of the Romans, bore a
confiderable ſway through the greateſt part of Gaul, were
now forced to deliver the perfons of beſt quality in their
country, as hoſtages for their peaceable behaviour, to thoſe
of Franchecomte, to oblige themſelves by oath never to
demand their reftitution, nor to apply to the Romans for
aid, or any way attempt a deliverance from this fubjection,
Himſelf was the only man of the whole province, who
could never be perſuaded either to take the oath, or deliver
up his children for hoſtages, and for that reafon had been
obliged to abandon his country, and implore affiftance of
the
!
1
1
1
16
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book I.
WAR in of the Roman fenate. Yet the conquerors were in a
GAUL. Worfe condition than the conquered, for ARIQVIS-
TUS, king of the Germans, had feated himſelf in their
country, and already poffeffed a full third of the choiceſt
land in Gaul; and not content with that, had now com-
manded the Franchecomtois to deliver up the other third,
to be diftributed amongst 24,000 natives of Conftance,
arrived fome few months before; wherefore, if ſpeedy re-
medies were not applied, all the Germans would in a few
years crofs the Rhine, and drive the Gauls out of their
country, allured by the richneſs of their foil, and manner
of living, which far excelled that of Germany.
That their king ARIOVISTUS was fo elevated with
his ſucceſs at the battle of Magſtat, that he behaved him-
felf with unheard of infolence and tyranny, demanding the
children of the nobility for hoftages, whom he uſed very
barbarouſly, if the Gauls did not readily fubmit to what-
ever he commanded them; and, in fine, that he was a
man of a moft paffionate and inhumane temper, whoſe
yoke they could no longer endure; therefore, unleſs
CESAR and the Romans would affift them, they muſt of
neceffity be obliged, after the example of the Swiſs, to
leave their country, that they might be free from the Ger-
mans, and feek their fortune in another land; but ſhould
their defign come to the knowledge of ARIOVISTUS, he
would infallibly revenge himſelf ſeverely on the hoſtages in
his cuftody yet, they hoped, if CESAR would pleaſe to
interpoſe in the matter, his credit, the fame of his army,
the reputation acquired by his late victory, and the name
of the Romans, might prevent the Germans tranſporting
any more colonies into Gaul, and defend them from the
tyranny of ARIOVISTUS."
32. DIVITIACUS having ended his ſpeech, CÆSAR
obferved that all who were prefent, except the Fran-
checomtois, with weeping eyes befought his affiftance;
but thefe only fixed their eyes upon the ground, with
mournful countenances, which made him enquire the
reafon of it; they continuing filent in the fame pofture,
made him no anfwer: which he wondered at extremely;
'till DIVITIACUS of Autun informed him, "That the
people of Franchecomte were infinitely more wretched
than their neighbours, for they neither durft defire af-
fiftance, nor even whifper their grievances, ftanding as
much in awe of ARIOVISTUS's cruelty when abſent as
prefent; for whereas the reft might hope to eſcape by for-
faking
Book I.
17
COMMENTARIES.
faking their country, thefe having admitted the tyrant into WAR IN
the heart of their province, having delivered the keys of GAUL.
all their cities into his hands, were obliged to fubmit to
whatever hardships he ſhould pleaſe to inpofe upon them."
CHAP. XIII.
Cefar pro-
33. AFTER CASAR had heard their complaints, he
bid them lay afide their fears, promifing them he would mifes to af
He had reafon to fſt them.
make their cafe his particular concern.
hope, he ſaid, from the favours he had conferred on ARIO-
VISTUS, that he ſhould prevail on him to defift from any
farther injuries. After this he difmiffed the council. Many
were the inducements which moved CESAR to undertake
their cauſe firſt, he faw the Autunois, who had often been
honoured by the fenate of Rome with the titles of bre-
thren, couſins, and allies, enflaved by the Germans, and
obliged to deliver hoftages to ARIOVISTUS, at a time when
the Roman empire was in a flouriſhing condition, a cir-
cumſtance which he thought derogatory to the honour of
it fecondly, he forefaw it would be of dangerous con-
fequence to the Romans, if the Germans, tranfporting
themſelves by degrees cross the Rhine, fhould make them-
felves mafters of the whole continent of Gaul; for he did
not ſuppoſe ſo fierce and barbarous a people would be con-
tent with that only, but, as the Cimbri and Teutons had
done formerly, would force their way through the Pro-
vince, and thence make irruptions into Italy, eſpecially fince
Franchecomte was only divided from the Roman territories
by the river Rhofne. Befides, ARIOVISTUS was grown
too haughty and arrogant to be borne.
34. To obviate thefe evils, he thought proper to fend Cefar fends
embaſſadors to him, defiring he would appoint a place of an emballage
interview, that they might treat of fome public affairs of
equal importance to them both.
CHAP.
XIV.
34. TO this emballage ARIOVISTUS replied, "That
if he had any bufinefs with CASAR, he would have waited
on him; and if CESAR had any with ARIOVISTUS, he
might give himſelf the fame trouble: for his part he would
not venture his perfon in the Roman dominions without
an arıny, nor did he deſign to put himſelf to the trouble and
expence of railing one for that purpoſe. And he wondered
C
extremely
to Ariovi-
ftus.
His answer.
18
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
WAR IN Extremely that CASAR or the Romans fhould concern
GAUL. themfelves with thofe parts of Gaul, which the right of
conqueft had made his inheritance."
A fecond
Cæfar's de-
mands.
35 Upon receipt of this anfwer, CESAR fent a fecond
emballage. emballage to acquaint him, "That fince he had fo ill re-
turned the honour done him by the people of Rome (who,
during his confulate, had vouchfafed him the title of king
and ally) as to refufe a parley for the public good, he had
fent him his demands; which were, firft, that he should
permit no more troops to be tranſported from Germany
into Gaul. Secondly, that he fhould return the hoftages.
received from the people of Autun, that he ſhould permit
the Franchecomtois to do the like, and ceaſe all further
acts of injuſtice or hoftility againſt them and their allies;
on theſe conditions, CESAR would engage, in behalf of
the Romans, that they ſhould receive him into favour, and
maintain a perpetual friendſhip with him: but, if he would
not comply with the terms propoſed, CÆSAR was obliged,
by a decree of the fenate made during the confulfhip of
M. MESSALA and M. PISO, to revenge the injuries done
to the people of Autun; for by that decree it was en-
acted, that all governors of the Province fhould, for the
future, as far as might be confiftent with the intereft of the
commonwealth, endeavour to defend their friends and
allies."
Arioviftus's
reply.
36. To which ARIOVISTUS made anſwer, "That,
according to the law of arms, the conqueror had a right of
governing thoſe he had fubdued, as he thought fit; the Ro-
mans did the fame, and if he had not preſumed to preſcribe
them rules of government, he knew not why they fhould
interfere with his: That the Autunois had undergone the
decifion of war, and by the law of arms were become his
tributaries: That the Romans had done him injuſtice,
fince by their arrival his tribute had been ill paid: That
he would not return their hoftages, nor yet ſhould he make
war upon the Autunois or their allies, provided they ob-
ferved their agreement, and paid their tribute yearly; but
in default of it, they fhould find the friendſhip of the Ro-
mans ftand them in little ftead. And as for CASAR, he
would have him take notice, fince he defigned to eſpouſe
their quarrel, no man ever yet contended with ARIOVI-
STUS, but to his own deftruction; therefore, let him begin
as foon as he pleaſed, the Germans were ready to receive
him, and would let him ſee what it was to diſpute with a
warlike
Book I.
19
COMMENTARIES.
warlike nation, who had not for fourteen years lain under WAR IN
any other canopy than that of heaven.”
CHA P. XV.
37. AT the fame time CÆSAR received this anfwer,
embaffadors arrived from Autun and Treves; the first to
complain, that the new colony from Conftance had en-
tered their country with fire and fword, and that they could
not purchaſe their peace from ARIOVISTUS by delivery of
hoſtages; the other, to acquaint him, that an hundred can-
tons of the Suabians were arrived at the river Rhine, in or-
der to paſs into Gaul, under the command of two bro-
thers, NASUA and CIMBER. CASAR was much con-
cerned at this news, and thinking it the wifeſt way to en-
gage ARIOVISTUS before the Suabians had joined him, he
provided his army with corn, and followed the Germans.
with all expedition.
38. After three days march he had intelligence that
VIOVISTUS was gone about three, days before to inveſt
Belançon, the capital of Francecomte.
OAUL.
Belançon was well ftored with all forts of provifions, Befançon de
and to conveniently fituated, that he who commanded it ſcribed.
might prolong the war at pleaſure; for it was encompaffed
by the river Doux, except about fix hundred foot of land,
which nature had fortified with a very ſteep moun-
tain, the bafis of which on both fides was waſhed by the ri-
ver. This mountain was furrounded by a wall, which
forming a citadel, joined it to the town. CASAR
marched with the utmoſt diligence to the city, and threw
a ftrong garriſon into it.
39. Here taking up his quarters for a few days, while he
laid in freſh provifions, the foldiers were informed by the
natives and merchants of the country, that the Germans
were men of prodigious ftature, invincible courage, and
extraordinary knowledge in the art of war, which the
Gauls had often experienced to their forrow; for when-
ever they engaged them, they could fcarce withſtand the
very lightning of their eyes, and the terror of their counte-
mances. The whole army were ftrangely frighted at this re- The Roman
port, but especially the tribunes, the chief officers, and fuch army fright-
raw foldiers as had followed CESAR from Rome to make cd at the re-
a campaign out of a compliment. Theſe were the firft Germans
that began to deplore their danger, and fome of them, pre- ftature and
tending extraordinary bufinefs, defired he would be pleafed courage.
C 2
to
port of the
20
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
L
WAR IN to give them their diſcharge; even thoſe whom ſhame re-
GAUL. ftrained, betrayed their fear by their countenances, ſome-
times by their tears, and retiring to their tents, bewailed
their deſtiny alone, whilft others did the like with their
comrades; nay, fo far did thefe terrible apprehenfions pre-
vail, that wills were feen figning throughout the army. The
cowardice of theſe men by degrees began to infect the ve-
teran foldiers, the centurions, and horfe-commanders, and
they who ſcorned to difcover their apprehenfions, declared
they were not afraid of the enemy, but of the narrow paſſes
and thick woods which lay between our camp and ARIO-
VISTUS; whilft others pretended to defpair of the poffibi-
lity of receiving provifions and fome had even the af-
furance to tell CESAR, whenever he ſhould command the
foldiers to their arms and march, they would certainly
diſobey his orders.
CHAP. XVI.
Cæfar calls a 40. CÆSAR, obferving fo great a confternation,
council of called a council of war, to which he fummoned even the
war; his
fpeech.
J
centurions of the loweſt rank; and ſo ſoon as the affembly
was met, having firft feverely reprimanded them, "for
prefuming to enquire or conjecture whither, and upon
what expedition they were going, he told them, that A RI-
ÖVISTUS, during his confulate, earneftly courted the
friendſhip of the Roman people, and he knew no reaſon
any man had to fufpect that he fhould, in fo fhort a time,
have forgot his duty; as for his particular, he was perfuad-
ed, that if ARIOVISTUS did but know what reaſonable
propoſals he defigned to offer him, he would not refuſe his
friendſhip, and the favour of the commonwealth: but
fuppofing he ſhould be fo much his own enemy as to make
war upon the Romans, what occaſion had they to be afraid
of him? what reafon had they to fufpect their own virtue,
or their general's diligence? for, fhould it come to a bat-
tle, the enemy they were to engage with, had twice been
tried before, firft, in the memory of their fathers, when
the Teutons and Cimbri were defeated by C. MARIUS, in
which battle the army obtained as much honour as their
general and fince that, in Italy, during the rebellion of
the flaves, who had the advantage of being killed in the
Roman difcipline; from whence might be inferred what
noble actions refolution could accomplish; for that very
enemy they were afraid of whilft unarmed, they after-
warde
Book I.
21
COMMENTARIES.
wards fubdued when Aufhed with victory. In fine, that WAR
thefe Germans were the fame the Swifs. had worſted in GAUL.
feveral rencounters, as well in Germany as Swifferland,
and yet the Swils were not able to maintain their ground
against the Romans.
1
But if any man drew conclufions from the defeat of the
Gauls, upon farther enquiry he might be fatisfied, that theſe
for many months befieged ARIOVISTUS in his camp,
pitched in a fenny country; but at length deſpairing of a
general battle, and being wearied with a tedious war, dif-
perfed themſelves; upon which ARIOVISTUS laying hold
of the opportunity, fubdued them more by policy than
courage: but he would find himſelf in a great error, if he
expected to enfnare the Romans, as he had a barbarous and
unſkilful people. As for thoſe who pretended the cauſe of
their fear was the difficulty of being fupplied with pro-
vifions, and the danger of the paffes; they betrayed extra-
ordinary infolence, in affuming the liberty to direct their
general, as if he himſelf was ignorant of his duty; but
they might lay afide their apprehenfions, for he had taken
care Lorrain and Franchecomte fhould furnish them with
what they wanted; befides, the corn was almoſt ripe in all
the fields they were to paſs through; and as for the ways,
themſelves fhould quickly be judges of their error.
Nor did the report, that the foldiers would refuſe to
march, diſturb him in the leaſt, for, he was fatisfied, no
army ever flighted their general's commands, but on ac-
count of his ill fuccefs, or notorious avarice; neither of
which imputations could be charged on him, witneſs his
conftant integrity, and his late victory over the Swiſs:
wherefore he was refolved immediately to execute that,
which he once deſigned to have deferred to a longer time;
for the next morning early he would decamp, and try whe-
ther ſhame and duty would not prevail over their cowardiſe :
that he would make the tenth legion his life-guard, whoſe
readineſs he did not doubt of; and, if no body elſe would
follow him, with them alone he would go in ſearch of the
enemy." For CESAR had a particular efteem for this
legion, in whofe courage he placed a fingular confidence.
IN
Cæfar begins
41. This fpeech wrought fo wonderful an alteration on
the minds of the whole army, that every man ſeemed briſk, his march.
and defirous of an engagement: nor did the tenth le-
gion forget to return him thanks, by their tribunes, for
the good opinion he had of them, affuring him how in-
duftrious they would be to deſerve it: the reft following
C 3
their
22
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
GAUL.
WAR IN their example, by their tribunes and centurions took care
to inform him, that they never doubted or pretended to
form a judgment of the fuccefs of that expedition; for
they always fubmitted thofe things to his wifdom: where-
upon CÆSAR, having learned from DIVITIACUS (in
whom he confided more than in any of the Gauls) that,
taking a circuit of forty miles, he might lead his army
through an open champaign country, according to his
former refolution, early in the morning began his march.
'The inter-
*
CHAP. XVII.
42. THE feventh day after his departure from Befan-
çon, he had intelligence that ARIOVISTUS was about four
and twenty miles off; who being informed of CÆSAR'S
arrival, fent embaſſadors to let him know, fince fortune
had brought them fo near, provided it might be done
without danger. he was willing to accept of an interview.
CASAR readily complied with the offer, hoping ARIO-
VISTUS was at laſt returned to himſelf, fince he now de-
fired that of his own accord which he refuſed before; and
that, confidering the propofals he defigned to make him,
he would at length reflect on the many favours he had re-
ceived from CESAR and the people of Rome, and no
longer fo obftinately oppofe an accommodation.
The fifth day was appointed for the interview, and in
the mean time there paffed ſeveral meſſages between them.
ARIOVISTUS defired CÆSAR would bring no infantry
along with him to the treaty, and that each of them ſhould
come attended only by their cavalry, to avoid furprize, for
otherwiſe he would not agree to a meeting. CASAR be-
ing unwilling the interview fhould be put off, and at the
fame time not daring to confide in the French cavalry, dif-
mounted the Gauls, and gave their horſes to his faithful
tenth legion, that he might have a guard, if occafion were,
on which he could rely: whereupon one of the foldiers of
that legion wittily faid, "That CASAR had been better
than his word, for he only promiſed they ſhould be his
foot guard, but now he had made them his cavalry."
43. In the midſt of a ſpacious and open plain, between
view be- the two armies, was a rifing ground, where, according to
tween Cæfar agreement, the interview was held: the legion which
viftus. CASAR had put on horſeback, he pofted two hundred
paces fhort of the mount, the like did ARIOVISTUS by
his cavalry, defiring they might difcourfe on horſeback,
and Ario-
❤
1
each
}
Book I.
23
COMMENTARIES.
Cæfar's
each bringing only ten perfons to the conference. So WAR IN
ſoon as they met, CASAR began to remind him of the GAUL,
favours and advantages he had formerly received from him
and the fenate of Rome, who had given him the title of ſpeech.
king and friend, fending him at the fame time confiderable
prefents; honours the Romans conferred but on few, and
upon thoſe for fignal defert, which had notwithſtanding
been bestowed on him by the fole favour of CÆSAR, and
bounty of the fenate." He alſo laid before him "the an-
cient and juft alliance which had been fo facred between
the Romans and people of Autun, and the frequent and
honourable decrees which had been made by the fenate in
their favour; that they had from all antiquity held the
principality of Gaul, even before their alliance with
Rome; and it was not ufual with the Romans to fuffer
the authority of their friends to be diminifhed; but on
the contrary to endeavour the increaſe of it. To fee them
loſe thoſe native privileges of honour, which they brought
with them as a dowry to the Roman friendſhip, was too
injurious to be borne. In fine, he demanded the fame.
conditions which he had formerly offered him by his em-
baſſadors; that he ſhould never make war on the Autunois
nor their allies; that he fhould return the hoſtages, and
if he could not oblige fome of his Germans to repaſs the
Rhine, at least he ſhould not permit any more to come
into Gaul."
44. ARIOVISTUS made little anfwer to CESAR's de- Arioviftus's
mands, but enlarged much on his own virtues; faying, anfwer.
"That he had not croffed the Rhine of his own accord,
but on the invitation of the Gauls; nor deſerted his coun-
try and relations, but in hopes of a confiderable reward for
his trouble: That the natives had voluntarily allotted him a
portion of land, delivered hoftages, and that tribute was
his due by the right of conqueft: Nor did he make war up-
on the Gauls before they had given the firft occafion,
whoſe confederate force he defeated in one fingle battle;
and if they defired a fecond trial, he was ready to engage
them again; but if they expected peace, it was unreafon-
able they fhould refuſe the payment of that tribute which
they had fo long willingly fubmitted to: That he expected
the friendſhip of the Romans would have proved both ho-
nourable and advantageous to him, for which reaſon he
courted it; but if he muſt purchaſe it at fo dear a rate as
the lofs of his tribute, he ſhould as readily renounce as he
accepted it.
C 4
That
3
24
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
Críar's re-
ply.
The Ger-
That as he had not tranfported fo many Germans into
Gaul with a defign to fubdue the country, but only for his
own protection (for he came thither at their request) fo
neither had he engaged in any war with the natives, but in
his own defence: that he was feated in Gaul before the
Romans came thither; nor had they ever marched their ar-
mies beyond the bounds of their province before that time,
and he did not understand what they meant by invading
his territories; for he had as good a title to that part of
Gaul as the Romans had to their province, who ought not
to encroach upon his dominions any more than he on theirs.
As for the pretence that the Autunois were by the fenate
decreed the allies of Rome, he would have CASAR know,
he was not fo barbarous and ignorant of the affairs of the
world, as not to remark that during the laft war with
the Savoyards, the Autunois affifted the Romans, who in
return helped them against the Franchecomtois; and he
had too fufficient reafon to fufpect, that, under the pre-
tence of an alliance with thefe, the Romans maintained an
army in Gaul with a defign to ruin him; therefore if
they did not immediately quit his dominions, he fhould no
longer cffeem them his friends, but his enemies that he
was well aflured by letters from Rome, if he had the good
fortune to kill CESAR, he fhould do feveral noblemen
there a very acceptable picce of fcrvice, which they would
think themſelves infinitely obliged to him for: however, if
he would depart without difturbing his peaceable poffeffion,
he would not only gratefully reward him for it, but be
obliged, at his own proper hazard and expence, to under-
take any war which CESAR fhould defire.
45. CESAR on the other hand, " urged feveral reafons
why he could not defift from his former refolution; firſt,
his own honour; next, the cuftom of the republic, which
never deferted her well-deferving allies: Nor could he be
perfuaded that ARIOVISTUS had a better title to Gaul
than the Romans; for FABIUS MAXIMUS fairly con-
-quered the people of Auvergne and Roüerge, whom he
might have reduced into a province, and made tributaries.
to the empire, if he had not thought proper to pardon
them: If antiquity is to be our guide, the Gauls owe fub-
miffion to the Romans; if we follow the judgment of the
fenate, they enjoy their liberties by the indulgence of the
Romans."
46. During this difpute, CESAR was informed that
mans trea- ARIOVISTUS's cavalry came nearer the mount, and had
chery.
3
affaulted
Book I.
25
COMMENTARIES.
1:
affaulted our men with a volley of ftones and darts; WAR IN
whereupon he immediately broke off the treaty, and re- GAUL.
tiring to his party, commanded them not to return the
enemy's treachery; for, though he might fafely have en-
gaged them with that felect legion, he waved it, becauſe the
Germans fhould not pretend he had drawn them into an
ambuſh on pretence of a treaty, contrary to his oath and
agreement.
So foon as the common foldiers were in-
formed how infolently ARIOVISTUS had behaved hinfelf
at the interview; how he had commanded the Romans to
be gone out of Gaul; how his cavalry had affaulted the
tenth legion, and that thereupon the treaty broke off, rage
and contempt infpired every man with a greater defire to
fight than ever.
cond inter-
47. About two days after, ARIOVISTUS fent deputies Arioviftus
again to CÆSAR to defire a ſecond interview, that they defires a fe-
might finiſh their imperfect treaty; or if he did not ap- view, which
prove of that, to fend plenipotentiaries to conclude fuch Cæfar de-
agreement as they fhould think fit to confent to: but nies.
CÆSAR was not inclinable to grant a fecond meeting, be-
cauſe the Germans had not obſerved their agreement the
time before; nor did he think it convenient to expofe the
perfons of any of his followers to the infidelity of fo in-
humane and barbarous a people: wherefore he fent M.
VALERIUS PROCILLUS (the fon of c. VALERIUS CABU-
R-IUS, whɔm c. VALERIUS FLACCUS had made a freeman
of Rome) a polite and honourable youth, whom he pitched
upon for his extraordinary integrity, and expertnefs in the
language of the Gauls, which ARIOVISTUS had learned by
living fo long amongſt them, thinking him a perſon againſt
whom the Germans could take no exception; and joined
M. METIUS, who was particularly well acquainted with
ARIOVISTUS, in commiffion with him, giving them or-
ders to hear what propoſals the Germans would offer, and
then make their report to 'CÆSAR: but fo foon as ARI- Arioviſtus
OVISTUS faw them arrived at his camp, in the prefence of puts the Ro-
his army, he demanded their bufinefs, whether they came man pleni-
thither as fpies? and, before they could anfwer him, com- in irons.
manded them to be clapt in irons.
•
48. The fame day he decamped, and lodged himſelf
under a hill, about fix miles from CESAR: the day after
marching by our army, he encamped about two miles be-
yond us; defigning to cut off our convoys from Autun
and Franchecomte: five days fucceffively, after this, C.E-
SAR drew his army out of their trenches, in order to give the
enemy
potentiaries
26
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN enemy battle, which ARIOVISTUS declined, keeping with-
GAUL. in his camp; but we had frequent fkirmishes with parties.
of the enemy's horſe.
The Ger-
man way of
fighting.
Cæfar's two
camps,
This was a method of fighting, in which the Germans
were very expert: they had 6000 horfe, and as many foot,
choſen out of the whole army by the horſe, for their extra-
ordinary ftrength and activity, each horfeman had one for
his guard; theſe perpetually attended them in the battle,
and affifted them in time of neceffity, for if a horfeman
was not a fufficient match for his enemy, if he was
wounded or unhorfed, one of theſe immediately came in to
his relief; and if there was occafion either for a quick
purſuit or retreat, continual exercife had made them fo
nimble, that, holding by the main, they could run as fwift
as the horſes.
CHAP.
XVIII.
49. CÆSAR perceiving that ARIOVISTUS ftill kept
within his camp, not daring to give him battle, left the
Germans fhould intercept his convoys from Franchecomte,
he choſe a convenient place for a new camp, about 600
paces beyond that of the enemy; and marching thither in
three battalions, he commanded two of them to defend
the reft, whilft they intrenched themſelves. ARIOVISTUS
fent 6000 foot and all his cavalry to interrupt this deſign;
but CÆSAR commanded the two battalions, according to
his former orders, to oppoſe the enemy, and the third to
go forward with their works; which being completed, he
left two legions there, with part of the auxiliary forces,
and retired with the other four to the larger camp.
50. Agreeably to the defign he had formed, the next
day CASAR drawing his whole army out of both their
camps, offered the enemy battle, and perceiving they did
not ftir out of their trenches, about noon returned again:
but at length ARIOVISTUS fent a detachment to attack
the leffer camp; whereupon there began a hot diſpute on
both fides, which continued till fun-fet, when ARIOVI-
STUS, after many wounds given and received, founded a
retreat. CÆSAR, enquiring of the priſoners why the Ger-
mans declined fighting, was informed, that, according to
the cuſtom of their country, the women were always to
decide by lot and augury the proper times for giving battle,
and that they declared the Germans fhould not be victori-
ous, if they engaged before the new moon.
CHAP.
T
A
}
1
*
味
​kx
2
'
!
:
Book I.
27
COMMENTARIES.
CHAP.
XIX.
GAUL.
51. THE next day after, c'ÆSAR, leaving fufficient WAR IN
parties to fecure his camps, ranged all his auxiliary troops to
make a fhew, before the leffer camp, becauſe the num-
ber of his legionary foldiers was very inconfiderable in re-
ſpect of the enemy; and, difpofing thefe into three lines,
marched directly towards ARIOVISTUS's camp; where-
upon the Germans being compelled, at laſt drew out their
forces, ranging each different canton at an equal diftance,
in the fame order of battle; viz. thoſe of Conftance, Mai-
hern, Straſburg, Worms, Spires, Franconia, and Suabia;
and then ſurrounded the army with their carriages, to take
away all hopes of fecurity by flight. In theſe they placed
their women, who weeping and tearing their hair, beſought
their huſbands, as they went to the battle, to fight like
men of courage, to preferve them from falling into the
hands of the Romans.
CHAP.
XX.
52. CÆSAR having affigned each legion a lieutenant The armies
and a queftor, who might be witneſſes of every man's be- engage.
haviour, began the fight himſelf at the head of the right
wing, becauſe he perceived the enemy to be weakest in that
part. As foon as the ſign of battle was given, our foldiers
preffed on fo brifkly, and the enemy advanced ſo furiouſly,
that there was no room to diſcharge the pila, fo that our
men threw them away, and were obliged to have immediate
recourſe to their fwords. But the Germans cafting them-
ſelves into a phalanx, according to the cuſtom of their
country, received the charge with little lofs, which feveral
of the legionary foldiers perceiving, leaped upon the pha-
lanx, tore up the targets with their hands, and flew thoſe
that lurked under them. The enemy's left wing was
routed but their right, overpowering us with numbers,
obliged us to give way. Which young P. CRASSUS, ge-
neral of the horſe, perceiving, as he might more eafily than
thoſe who were actually engaged, immediately diſpatched
the third line of battle to fuftain us.
53. Upon this, the fight was renewed with freſh vigour,
and at length the enemy's army entirely put to flight;
nor did they ever look back till they arrived at the Rhine,
about fifty miles diftance from the field: Being there ar-
I
rived
ร
28
C. J. CÆSA R'S, &c. Book I.
1
GAUL.
WAR IN rived fome few eſcaped by fwimming the river, whilſt
others, got over in little boats, and ARIOVISTUS embarking
in a ſmall veffel, recovered the other fide; but his two
wives had not the fame fortune, for neither of them fur-
vived the battle; one of theſe was a Suabian, whom he
brought with him from his own country; the other a Ba-
varian, fifter to king voción, fent him by her brother
into Gaul, and married there; nor did his two daughters
eſcape, for one was flain, and the other taken priſoner.
The Ger-
taken.
*
CASAR purſuing the German cavalry, by chance over-
mans routed, took VALERIUS PROCILLUS while he was dragged along
Procillus re- bound with three chains. This opportunity of reſcuing
his particular friend, by whom he had been hofpitably re-
ceived, gave him as much pleaſure as the victory itſelf.
Nor was fortune without her fhare in preferving this joy
entire to him. For thrice, he faid, had his life been at ſtake,
while lots were caft before his face, whether he ſhould be
committed to the flames immediately, or have a farther
refpite. At the fame time M. METIUS was likewife re-
taken. The fame of this victory reaching beyond the
Rhine, the Suabians, who had advanced to the banks of
that river, began to direct their courfe homewards: But
the people of Colen taking the opportunity, purſued
them whilst confuſed, and flew confiderable numbers of
them in their retreat.
CÆSAR having thus fucceffively ended two fuch im-
portant wars in one campaign, put his troops into winter-
quarters in Franchecomte, fomething fooner than the fea-
fon of the year required; and, committing them to the
care of LABIENUS, returned into Lombardy, to prefide at
the general diet.
f
1
C. J. CE-
C. J. CÆSAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The SECOND BOOK.
His war with the confederate Belge: bis fuccefs in
Picardy and Hainault.
I
CHAP. I.
N the winter-time, whilft CÆSAR was in Lombardy, WAR IN
he had ſeveral reports, which were afterwards con- GAUL.
firmed by letters from LABIENUS, that all the ſtates
1
enter into a
confederacy
of the Belga, who, as we have already faid, poffeffed The Belga
a third part of Gaul, had given hoſtages to each other, and
entered into a mutual league againſt the Romans. The against the
occafion of this confederacy, was their apprehenfion, that, Romans.
when CESAR had fubdued their neighbours, he would turn
his forces upon them; befides, they were follicited to it
by fuch Gauls as began to think the Roman army, which
had taken winter-quarters in their country, as troubleſome
guefts as the Germans; and by fuch as love innovations,
from the mere inftability of their temper; and laftly, by
thoſe who perceived it was an eaſy matter for him, who
had moft money and men at command, to make himſelf
mafter of all the provinces of Gaul, provided the Romans
were once expelled.
2. Where-
30
C. J. CÆSA R'S Book II.
WAR IN
GAUE.
Cæfar hav-
2. Whereupon CESAR levied two new legions in
Lombardy, and fent them under the command of his
lieutenant QPEDIUS into the inner part of Gaul, him-
felf following after early in the ſpring, fo foon as there
was forage for his horfes. Upon his arrival at the army,
he wrote to the inhabitants of Sens, and the other Gauls
that bordered on the Belgæ, to obferve the enemy's
motions, and fend him daily intelligence what they were
doing: from theſe he had notice that the Belge were very
bufy in raiſing an army, and drawing their forces to a ge-
neral rendezvous: wherefore thinking it convenient to lofe
no further time, he immediately drew his forces out of
their winter-quarters, and refolved to begin his march
within twelve days; which he did, and arrived within.
fifteen more, on the confines of the Belgæ.
3. His coming was fo fudden and unexpected, that the
people of Rheims, whofe country lay neareſt the Gauls,
being ſurprized at it, diſpatched away ICCIUS and ANTE-
BROGIUS, perſons of the greateft quality in their province,
as embaſſadors, to affure CÆSAR they had not concerned
themſelves in the confederacy with the reſt of the Belgæ
againſt the Romans, but were ready to fubmit to the em-
pire; and, as a proof of their innocence, offered to deliver
hoſtages, to receive him into their towns, and furniſh the
army with what provifions they had occafion for. They
owned that the reft of the Belgæ were all in arms; that
the Germans on the other fide the Rhine had pro-
mifed them affiftance; and that their countrymen were fo
hotly bent upon the expedition, that all they could do to
reſtrain them, was not fufficient to prevent thoſe of Soif-
fons from entering into the fame alliance, though they were
their brethren, and obferved fo ftrict a friendſhip on all
other occafions, that they were governed by the fame laws,
cuſtoms, and magiftrates, being almoſt incorporated under
one government.
CHA P. II.
4. CÆSAR inquiring of the embaffadors what people,
ing received and how powerful they were that had taken up arms, was
the people of informed that the Belge were originally deſcended from the
Rheims into Germans, who had croffed the Rhine, expelled the natives,
they give and, tempted by the fertility of the country, had taken
him intelli- poffeffion of it: that theſe were the only people, who,
gence. during the dreadful inundation of the Teutons and Cim-
protection,
bers,
Book II.
31
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
u
bers, had maintained their ground, whilft the other pro- WAR IN
vinces of Gaul were over-rún by thofe Barbarians; the
memory of which fuccefs infpired them with extraordinary
courage. They likewife told him, that by reafon of their
alliance and neighbourhood to them, they had opportunities
of informing themſelves what quota of men each particu-
lar province had promifed in the general affembly, to pro-
vide for carrying on the war: that thofe of Beauvois, who
were more numerous, warlike, and potent than the reſt of
the Belgæ, were able to raiſe 100,000 men, out of which
number they obliged themfelves to bring 60,000 into the
field, in confideration whereof they expected to have the
management of the war committed to their charge: that
next to theſe, in a ſpacious and fertile country, lay the
people of Soiffons, lately fubject to DIVITIACUS, once the
moſt potent man in Gaul, who was not only mafter of a
confiderable part of that country, but had fome footing like-
wife in Britain; but GALBA was their prefent king, who,
by the general confent of the confederates, was, for the
fake of his fingular conduct and juftice, made Gene-
raliffimo; thefe had twelve fortified towns, and promiſed
to furniſh 50,000 men: next, thofe of Hainault, who are
the moſt barbarous people in all that country, were to pro-
vide the like number; thofe of Arras 15,000, Amiens and
Caux each 10,000, Vexen and Vermandois together the
like number, Toroüenne 25,000, Guelders 9000, Douay
29,000, Condrotz, Liege, Namur, Luxemburg, and the
reft of the Germans together, 40,000.
5. CESAR, to encourage the people of Rheims to
continue faithful to the Romans, promiſed to reward them
liberally, if they obferved their alliance, commanding them
to deliver him their fenate and the beft of their noblemen
for hoftages, which they readily performed by the day pre-
fixed; then fending for DIVITIACUS, he informed him
how neceffary it was, for the public fafety, to make a
diverfion, that the enemy might be obliged to feparate their
forces; and therefore commanded him to return to Au-
tun, and enter the territories of the Belge on that fide
with fire and fword.
CHA P. III.
BEING informed afterwards by his fcouts and the
people of Rheims, that the confederate armies of the Bel-
gæ, being joined, marched directly towards him, and were
already
!
32
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book II.
WAR IN already within a few miles of his camp, he immediately
GAUL. paffed the Afne, which divides Rheims from the reſt of the
town.
Belgæ, and encamped on the banks of the river, whereby
he prevented any furprize from the enemy, and fecured a
communication with Rheims and thoſe other cities whence
he expected proviſions: to fecure his retreat croſs the river,
he poſted a strong party on the bridge, leaving TITURIUS
SABRICUS, one of his lieutenants, on the other fide with
fix cohorts, who had orders to fortify their camp with a
trench eighteen foot broad, and a rampart twelve foot high.
CHAP.
IV.
6. THE Belge were in hopes to have furprized Bri-
enne, a town about eight miles diftance from CÆSAR'S
camp; and ſtormed it fo furiouſly, that it was ſcarce able
Their man- to hold out one day. The Celta and Belgæ ufe the fame
ner of af method in affaults; for having furrounded the walls, they
faulting a
never ceafe flinging of ftones 'till they have fwept the be-
fieged off the battlements; then cafting themfelves into a
teſtudo, they approach the gate, and undermine the walls;
which they might do with great cafe at Brienne; for ſo nu-
merous were the flingers and thoſe that caft darts, that it
was impoffible for the garriſon to ſtand their ſhot. So
foon as night had ended the affault, ICCIUS, a man of the
greateſt quality and intereſt in Rheims, who had not long
before been fent embaffador to CESAR, difpatched away
à courier to our camp, to inform us, unleſs he was quick-
ly relieved, he muſt be obliged to ſurrender the town.
7.
CASAR foon anſwered his demands; for, making
ufe of the courier for a guide, he detached a party of Can-
dian and Numidian archers, with a number of Belearian
flingers, whom he immediately fent to their affiſtance;
which infuſed freſh courage into the befieged, and put the
The fiege of enemy out of hopes; who having laid the country waſte,
Brienne rai- and burnt the villages round about, left the fiege, and
fed by the marching in one body towards us, lodged themfelves within
Romans.
The two ar-
mics drawn
up.
two miles of our army, enclofing above eight miles for
their camp, as near as could be computed by their fires in
the night, and ſmoke in the day.
CHAP.
V.
8. CAESAR at firft did not defign to give them bat-
tle, becauſe they were reported to be as valiant as nume-
rous; but having tried their courage in ſmall ſkirmiſhes, he
perceived
Book II.
33
COMMENTARIES.
+
perceived his foldiers were able to cope with them; fo mak- VAR IN
ing choice of a convenient place before his camp, he drew GAUL.
up his army in order of battle. The little hill whereon we
had entrenched ourſelves, riſing with an eaſy aſcent from
the plain below, was but juſt of a fufficient breadth to con-
tain the front of our army, where the legions were drawn
up, defcending fomewhat ſteeper on both fides: here, to
prevent the enemy's furrounding our men, or charging
them in the flank, CESAR took care to make a trench
from one fide of the hill to the other, containing fix hun-
dred paces in length, and built little bulwarks at each end,
which were well provided with engines to repulſe the
enemy. So leaving the two legions, lately lifted in Lom-
bardy, in his camp for a referve, he drew up the other fix
on the front of the hill before his camp; the Belgæ did
the like, and faced our army.
9. Between us and the enemy there lay a marfh, which Bit a marſh
they believed we would have paffed; and we on the other prevents the
hand expected the like from them, defigning to attack engagement.
them whilft they were endeavouring to get over ſo trou-
bleſome a place: in the mean time the cavalry on both fides
engaged; but neither army attempting to cross the marſh,
CÆSAR, having had the better in the fkirmiſh, returned to
his camp.
Not long after, the enemy decamped, marching towards The Belga
the river Aiſne, which lay behind us, and attempted to endeavour to
croſs the water where it was fordable, defigning to make Aine, but
pals the
themſelves mafters of the fort which Q. TITURIUS Com-are repulfed
manded, and to break down the bridge, or at leaſt to harrafs with great
daughter.
the country of Rheims and intercept our convoys.
10. Upon notice of this from TITURIUS, CESAR
croffed the bridge, and marched to his relief at the head
of his cavalry, light-armed Numidians, flingers, and ar-
chers; where he had a fharp difpute with the Belga.
The Romans, charging the enemy as they were croffing
the river, flew great numbers of them; and thoſe who
were ſo deſperate as to endeavour to make a bridge of the
carcafes of their dead countrymen, in fpight of their ut-
moſt efforts were repulfed by the foldiers from the fhore,
whilft they who had fafely arrived on the other fide were
encompaffed by our cavalry, and put to the ſword.
The Belge finding themfelves thus difappointed of their
hopes, that they could neither gain Brienne, pafs the river,
nor draw the Romans out of their camp to fome diſad-
vantageous poſt, and confidering their provifions were al-
D
moft
34
Book II.
C. J. CESAR'S
WAR IN moft fpent, called a council of war, wherein they refolved
GAUL. to break up, and return each man to his own country;
The Belgæ
obliging themſelves, in cafe the Romans invaded any of
their confines, that all the reft fhould immediately come to
their affiftance; for they judged it fafer to fight at home,
where they might be fecure of provifions, than to diſpute
the matter in a foreign country; nor was it the ſmalleſt
inducement to this refolution, that they were informed.
DIVITIACUS, with a ftrong party of Autunois, was al-
ready on his march to the confines of Beauvois, which
obliged them to make a ſpeedy retreat, to defend that
country.
CHAP. VI.
11. THIS refolution being agreed to by the whole
decamp, and army, about the fecond watch of the night they began to
return home. leave their camp with extraordinary noife and confufion,
cach man contending for the foremoſt rank, that he might
be fooneft at home, marching in as diforderly a manner, as
if they had been put to the rout. CAESAR, who had no-
tice of this from his ſcouts, being jealous of fome deſign,
becauſe he could not conceive the reaſon of their departure,
did not ftir out of his trenches; but the next morning
early, upon further intelligence, he firft detached QUINTUS
PEDIUS and 1.. ARUNCULEIUS COTTA, two of his lieu-
tenants, with the cavalry; and after them T. LABIENUS
at the head of three legions, with command to attack the
The Ro- enemy's rear. Thefe overtaking the Belga, purfued them
mans attack ſeveral miles, and put great numbers to the fword; whilſt
their rear.
their rear faced about to receive our charge, the van-guard,
who were out of danger, paying no manner of obedience
to their officers, broke their ranks, ran away, and deſerted
their companions, of whom the Romans made a dreadful
flaughter, 'till night and their general's commands obliged
them to their camp.
CHAP.
VII.
•
12. THE next day, before the enemy were recovered
from their confternation, CÆSAR marched his army to Soif-
fons, which joins to the country of Rheims, and after a te-
dious journey arrived at Noïon, which he hoped to have
furprized, becauſe he was informed it wanted provifions,
and a garrifon to defend it; but he was difappointed by
the breadth of the ditch, and extraordinary height of the
4
wall
Book II.
35
COMMENTARIES.
3
wall that furrounded it; wherefore, having fortified his WAR IN
camp, he began to prepare for a formal fiege.
GAUL.
The night after, all the Soiffonois who had efcaped the Noïon be-
flaughter, threw themſelves into the town; but furprized fieged and
at the mounts and batteries he had raiſed in ſo fhort a time, taken.
works which the Gauls had never ſeen before nor heard of,
they beat a parley, fent deputies to treat of a ſurrender;
and, by the interceffion of their neighbours of Rheims,
obtained their fuit.
13. After they had delivered up their arms, and the chief
perfons of their country as hoftages, amongst whom were
GALBA's two fons, they were admitted to mercy.
CHA P. VIII.
which fub-
FROM thence CÆSAR marched against thofe of Beau- Cæfar
vois, who having retired with all their moveables into the marches to
capital of the fame name, had intelligence that CÆSAR Beauvois,
was arrived within five miles of the town; whereupon mits.
they fent all the reverend old men to meet him, who in a
fubmiffive pofture faid, that they came to furrender them-
felves to his difcretion, and would no longer prefume to
bear arms against the people of Rome; and when he had
encamped his army nearer the town, the boys and women
from the walls, with ftretched out arms, according to the
cuftom of their country, humbly befought him that he
would vouchſafe to grant them peace.
Bellovací
Arechiant
14. For thefe DIVITIACUS (who had difmiffed his
army in Autun, and returned to CÆSAR, fo foon as he
heard the enemy had broken up) interceded, alledging,
"That the people of Beauvois had always been faithful
friends to thofe of Autun, and were ready to affift them
upon all occafions; nor had they entered into this confe-
deracy againſt the Romans, forfaking their old allies, un-
lefs they had been perfuaded to it by their nobility, who
made them believe that the Autunois were enflaved by the Hou
Romans, and laboured under the vileft oppreffions: That
the authors of this confpiracy, finding into how miferable
a condition they had plunged their country, were fled into
England That the people of Beauvois not only fued
for CESAR's wonted clemency themfelves; but thofe of
Autun were become interceffors; whofe credit and autho-
rity CÆSAR would raife, by this indulgence, among the Bel-
ge, where they had formerly upon every occafion been
obliged to afk affiftance."
15. CÆSAR
D 2
Bellor
Haed
36
Book II.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
15. CESAR being moved by the mediation of DIVI-
TIACUS and the Autunois, promifed to forgive them;
but, becauſe their dominions were larger, more popu-
lous, and powerful than the reft of the Belgæ, he de-
manded 600 hoftages; which being delivered, together
with their arms, he left their city, and marched directly to
Amiens fur- Amiens, which furrendered at difcretion, without any
trouble.
renders.
The cuftoms
naultois.
Next to Amiens lived the people of Hainault; "who,
of the Hai- as CÆSAR was informed, held no commerce with other
countries, never fuffered wine, or any other luxurious
merchandize, as might enervate their bodies, or debaſe
their minds, to be imported amongst them; a warlike,
favage people, who always condemned the reſt of the
Belgæ for fubmitting to the Roman yoke; declaring they
would neither fend embaffadors, nor accept of peace on
any terms."
Deferters
gence to the
enemy.
16. CÆSAR, after three days march in their country,
received information from fome priſoners, that the enemy
were poſted on the other fide the Sambre, a river about
ten miles diſtant from his camp, where they waited for the
Romans that they were already joined by thofe of Arras
and Vermandois, whom they had perfuaded to fhare their
fortune, and daily expected a further fupply from Liege:
that they had diſpoſed of their women, and fuch whofe age
made them unfit for war, in a place by themſelves, ren-
dered inacceffible by the marſhes that furrounded it.
17. On this information, CÆSAR difpatched his ſcouts
and centurions, to provide a convenient place to encamp
in.
Some of the Belga, who had furrendered themſelves,
carry intelli- and were in CASAR's camp (as we afterwards learned
from the priſoners) obferving the particular order of the
Romans march, deferted in the night to the enemy, and
informed them, that between each legion marched a part
of the heavy baggage; and that they might eaſily defeat the
firſt legion, ſo ſoon as they were arrived in the camp, whilft
they were incumbered by their baggage, and at ſo great a
diſtance from the reft, that they could not readily be fup-
ported; which fuccefs would put the other legions into
fuch a confternation, that they would not have the courage
to maintain their ground. This advice made the greater
impreffion, becauſe the people of Hainault (who were al-
ways more expert at fighting on foot than horſeback) uſed
formerly to prevent their neighbours from making inroads
into
Book II.
37
COMMENTARIES.
A
into their country, by a fortification of young trees, whofe WAR IN
boughs they bent into the earth, filled up the vacancies fo GAUL.
clofe with thorns, that it ferved them inftead of a wall,
which could neither be penetrated nor even feen through.
Whilſt therefore they contrived to ftop the progrefs of our
army by this bulwark, they thought it convenient to put
other expedient in practice.
the
18. The place which the Romans made choice of to
encamp in, was a hill, from whence there was an even de-
fcent to the Sambre; and on the farther fide of the river,
directly oppofite to us, about two hundred paces diftance,
was another hill, plain and open at the foot, but ſo thick
and woody in the upper part, that it concluded our pro-
ſpect. The enemy had covered themſelves in theſe woods:
and in the open ground, by the river fide, which was but
three foot deep thereabouts, appeared only fome few troops
of horse.
19. CASAR, fending his cavalry before, followed clofe
after with the reft of the army, but had altered the dif-
pofition of his march, fince the intelligence conveyed to the
enemy; for, knowing he was near the Hainaultois, ac-
cording to his ufual cuſtom, he had placed fix legions in
the front, who had nothing to carry but their
but their arms; leav
ing the charge of the whole baggage to the two new le-
gions, who marched in the rear.
CHA P. IX.
Nervii
Hainaultcis.
THE Roman cavalry, with the flingers and archers, The battle
having paffed the river, engaged the enemy's horfe, who with the
at firſt retired to their companions in the wood, then fallied
out again; but the Romans did not think fit to purſue
them further than the open ground. The fix legions in
the front, according to the general's orders, had already
begun to intrench themfelves, when the enemy feeing our
foremoſt carriages arrived, which was the fign appointed
for making their fally, rufhed from behind the thickets in
order of battle with all their forces; and having eafily
broke their way through our cavalry, run with fuch in-
credible fwiftnefs down the banks of the Sambre, that
they ſeemed at the fame inftant to be in the woods, at the
river, and charging our legions on the other fide; for
mounting the hill with the fame fury they had defcended
from the banks, they fell upon our foldiers in the works,
before they had time to perceive their danger.
D 3
20. Now
38
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book II.
WAR IN 20. Now had CESAR, at the fame inftant, all theſe
GAUL. ſeveral things upon his hands; hanging out the flag to give
the foldiers warning to repair to their arms, proclaiming
the fight by found of trumpet, drawing off the foldiers
from the works, recalling thofe who were gone to fetch
materials for the rampart, ranging the army in order of
battle, encouraging the men, and giving out the word by
which they were to diftinguiſh their friends from their foes
in the heat of the engagement; moft of which the un-
expected attack of the enemy prevented, by not allow-
ing us time.
The experi-
ence of the
Roman fol-
diers,
CHAP.
X.
IN the midst of thefe dificulties, two things fell out
to the advantage of the Romans; one was, each private.
foldier had fo much experience, that he knew his duty,
and what was proper to be done upon fuch an emergency,
as well as his officer; the other, that the legions who were
employed about the works, and had been commanded by
CESAR not to leave off 'till his further orders, refpecting
more the neceffity of affifting their fellows, than their
general's commands, followed the dictates of their own
difcretion.
21. CASAR having diftributed the neceffary orders,
made hafte to encourage the firft body of his foldiers he
could meet, which happened to be the tenth legion, to
whom he faid no more, than that he hoped they would re-
member their antient virtue, and, notwithſtanding the
furprize, manfully fuftain the affault; and being at no
further diſtance from the enemy, than was juſt ſufficient
for cafting their pila, he gave them the fign of battle;
then going to another part of the army, he found it al-
ready engaged. So fhort was the time which the fury of
the enemy allowed us, that the officers had not leiſure to
put on their ornaments of diftinction, nor the men their
head-pieces, or to uncover their targets; but each foldier,
joining himſelf to the firft ftandard he met, ftood to his
arms, that he might not lofe that time in feeking for his
own company, which was to be fpent in fighting.
22. The army being drawn up, rather according to the
nature of the place, the declivity of the hill, and parti-
cular neceffity of the time, than as art-military and order
required, the legions engaged the enemy in feveral places
at once; and as a general view of the battle was hindered
by
1
Book II.
39
COMMENTARIES.
1
by the thickets which we fpoke of before, it was impof- WAR IN
fible to know where fuccours were wanted, or to conduct GAUL.
the fight by one uniform defign; an inconvenience that
rendered the fuccefs dubious, and occafioned various
events.
wing bro-
23. The foldiers of the ninth and tenth legions, who The ene-
were poſted in the left, by their pila foon drove thofe of my's right
Arras, who were weary and wounded, from the eminence ken.
where they were pofted, into the water; and purſuing them
ſword in hand, killed great numbers of them as they en-
deavoured to paſs the river. They followed them quite crois
it, where, being drawn into a difadvantageous place, the
enemy faced about again, and renewed the fight, but were
obliged a fecond time to fly. So likewife, in another part
of the battle, the eighth and eleventh legions, having
broken the Vermandois, whom they were engaged with,
had forced them from the top of the hill to the banks of
the river. But in the mean time the front and left fide of
our camp were left almoft naked (for in the right wing
were placed the twelfth, and not far from that the feventh
legion which the Hainaultois perceiving, attacked us there The Hai-
with their entire force, under the command of BODUOG-force the
NATUS; one party of them endeavouring to flank the Roman
legions where they lay moft open, and the other to lodge camp.
themſelves in the higheſt part of the camp.
24. About the fame time the cavalry and light-armed
foot, who, as I faid, at the beginning of the battle had been
broken juſt as they were retiring into the camp, met the
front of the enemy, which obliged them to take a different
rout: whilft the fervants of the army, who, from the top
of the mountain, feeing our men purfue the enemy cross
the river, had iffued out from the Decuman port, with a
defign to follow in hopes of plunder; turning about be-
held the Hainaultois entering our camp, and immediately
fled. This confufion was encreafed by the clamour of
thofe that attended the carriages, each man in his fright
taking a different way. The cavalry of Treves, re-
puted men of great courage amongst the Gauls, who had
been fent from thence to our affittance, perceiving that
the enemy were poffefled of our camp, that the legions.
were over-charged and almoſt furrounded, that our horfe,
fiingers, and Numidians were broken and routed, were fo
terrified, that, not ſtaying for the event of the battle, they
immediately returned home, reporting that the Romans
were entirely defeated, and their baggage taken.
25. CÆSAR,
D 4
naultois
40
Book II,
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
The Ro-
mans give
ground.
25. CÆSAR, having encouraged the tenth legion, went
up to the right wing of the army, and found them over-
charged by the enemy; the ftandards of the twelfth legion
all crouded up in a place together; their ranks ſo cloſe,
the foldiers had not room to fight; all the centurions of
the fourth cohort killed, a ſtandard-bearer deprived of his
life and colours together; all the reft of the centurions either
killed or dangerously wounded, amongft which number
was P. SEXTUS BACULUS, the primiple, a man of extra-
ordinary courage, who had received fo many wounds, he
was not able to ſtand; the front beginning to give ground,
whilſt ſome in the rear were running away; the enemy on
the other hand pufhing on brifkly in the front, notwith-
ſtanding the diſadvantage of the rifing ground, and flank-
ing our men with equal fury at the fame time on either
fide. Finding things in this defperate condition, and
fhield, and knowing he had no forces behind to bring up to their aid,
places bim- fnatching a fhield from one of the hindmoft (for he was
felf in the come there without one) he put himſelf at the head of the
front of the army; then calling the centurions by name, and encourag-
encourage ing the reft, commanded them to advance the enfigns, and
Cæfar
fnatches a
battle, to
them.
Nervie
Labienus
gains the
enemy's
widen the ranks of the Maniples, that they might have
more liberty to uſe their fwords. His prefence infuſed freſh
courage into the foldiers; and each of them ftriving, even
in the greateſt extremity, to give proofs of his valour,
whilft the general was there to be a witnefs of it, put a
ftop to the career of the enemy.
CHAP.
XI.
26. PERCEIVING likewife that the feventh legion,
which ftood next him, was overpowered by the enemy,
he commanded the tribunes to cloſe the two legions toge-
ther by degrees, and joining back to back, face about to the
right and left, whereby having made a double front, they
were fecure from being furrounded; whereupon they began,
to defend themſelves, and attack the enemy with freſh vi-
gour. In the mean time, the two legions which had been
left behind to guard the baggage, hearing the armies were
engaged, made what hafte they could to our affiftance, and
were difcerned by the Hainaultois from the top of the hill.
TITUS LABIENUS, who by this time had made himſelf
camp; and mafter of the enemy's camp, perceiving from the rifing
fends aflift- ground how matters went on our fide the river, detached
ance to Ca- the tenth legion to our relief, who having intelligence from
far.
the
Book II.
41
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
the cavalry and fervants that fled away, what danger the WAR IN
general, his legions, and the camp were in, haftened with
all the ſpeed that was poffible.
*
27. Their arrival made fo ftrange an alteration for the
better on our fide, that they who before were faint with
bleeding, and forced to reft themfelves upon their ſhields,
began the fight afreſh; nay, the fervants, ſeeing how great
a confternation the enemy were in, fell upon them unarm-
ed; and the horſe, to wipe away the ignominy of their
former flight, advanced, wherever there was an opportunity,
before the legionary foldiers. But the enemy, even in their
laft extremity, fhewed fo much reſolution, that as foon as
the foremoſt ranks were fwept off, the next fucceeding in
their place, fought upon their bodies, and when death had
raiſed a mountain of carcafes, the fmall remainder, afcend-
ing to the top of it, caft their darts from thence, and taking
up ours, returned them back again: fame therefore did The enemy
them juſtice, in reporting them to be men of fuch prodi- entirely de-
ous courage, who durft attempt to cross a broad river,
and afcend the freep banks on the other fide, to engage an
enemy at the greateſt diſadvantage; dangers which their
greatneſs of foul had learnt to deſpiſe.
feated.
nervii
28. The battle being thus decided, and almoſt the
name and people of Hainault extinguiſhed, the old men,
women, and children, who, as we have already faid, be-
fore the fight had been conveyed into bogs and marshes,
hearing of the defeat, and ſeeing no way left to put a ſtop
to the conqueror's fuccefs, nor any hopes of fafety for the
vanquished, unanimoufly refolved to fend embaffadors to
CÆSAR, and furrender themſelves. When theſe were ar-
rived at the camp, they laid before him the deplorable con-
dition of their country; that out of fix hundred fenators, The mighty
only three remained alive; and that of 60,000 foldiers, laughter of
they had not now 500 able to bear arms; whom CESAR, teis.
to give proof of his compaffion to the afflicted, carefully
preſerved, allowing them the free poffeffion of their towns
and country, and commanding their neighbours round
about to do them no injury.
CHA P.
"atuativci
the Hainaut-
29. THE people of Douay, who, as we faid before, The people
were marching to the affiftance of the Hainaultois, having of Douay re-
intelligence of their defeat, returned home again; and, turn home,
and fortify
deferting all the rest of their towns and caftles, conveyed their princi-
themſelves pal town.
3
42
Book II.
C. J. CESAR'S
!
A
t
WAR IN themſelves and their riches into a well fortified place,
GAUL. which was furrounded by inacceffible rocks and ſteep pre-
cipices, except in one place about 200 foot bread, where
there was an cafy afcent to the town, which they had for-
tified with a double wall of a prodigious height; whereon
they laid ftones and fharp pieces of timber, ready to caft
down upon occafion.
The defcent
Thefe people were defcended from the Cimbri and
of the people Teutons, who, when they took their journey to Italy, had
of Dousy. left fix thousand men on the other fide the Rhine, with
Cæfar be-
fuch carriages as they could not conveniently get over:
thefe, after the defeat of their countrymen, having been
long in an unfettled ftate, fometimes invading others, and
at another time defending themſelves, at laft obtained a
peace, and firm poffeffion in the country.
30. On the firſt arrival of our army they made feveral
freges them, fallies out of the town, and encountered our men in fmall
fkirmishes; but after we had drawn our line of circum-
vallation, twelve foot high, and fifteen miles in length, and
fortified it with little turrets, the befieged kept themſelves
within their walls. At firft when they faw us raifing a
mount, fitting up the vines, and building a large turret at
fome diftance from the town, making a jeſt of us, by way
of ridicule they demanded, with what hands or ſtrength
fuch little men as we (for the Romans are but of ſmall
ftature in refpect of the Gauls) fhould be able to bring a
tower of that prodigious weight to their walls?
31. But when they faw it move, and advancing near
the town, aftoniſhed at fo ftrange a fight, they immediately
They fend a fent deputies to CESAR to defire a peace; faying, "They
deceitful
embafiage
to Cæfar.
Cefar's an-
fwer.
believed the Romans made war by the peculiar affiftance
of the gods, who were able in fo fmall a fpace of time to
convey engines of that prodigious bulk to their walls;
wherefore they willingly fubmitted themfelves, and all they
had to CÆSAR's mercy, only intreating him, that if, out
of that goodneſs and compaffion they had often heard of,
he fhould fpare their lives, he would not deprive them of
their arms; that as they had always been envy'd and hated
by their neighbours for their valour, he would not leave
them without the means to defend themſelves; for they
would rather fubmit to any puniſhment from the Romans,
than be inhumanly murdered by thofe whom they had for-
merly commanded.”
32. To this CESAR answered, "That, provided they
furrendered themfelves before his battering ram touched
their
Book II.
43
COMMENTARIES.
their walls, he would fave the city, more out of his own WAR IN
natural difpofition, than from any merit of theirs: nor GAUL.
would he accept of a ſurrender on any other terms than
the delivery of their arms: That he would give the fame
orders to their neighbours not to injure them, as he had
done for thofe of Hainault.
Nervří
The deputies returned with this anfwer, which the be- The befieged
fieged feemed readily to fubmit to, by cafting fuch plenty furreader.
of arms over the walls, as almoft filled the ditch up to the
top of the rampart; but, as we afterwards found, referved
a third part, which they hid; then opening their gates, en-
joyed a peace for the reft of that day.
33. In the evening CASAR caufed the foldiers to re-
turn to their camp, and the gates of the town to be ſhut,
that the citizens might not be plundered. But the be-
fieged, who had already concerted their defign, believing
that after their furrender the Romans would fet no guard
over them, or at leaſt an inconfiderable one, armed with
fuch weapons as they had referved, and targets made of
wicker, covered over with hides, about three o'clock in
the morning made a furious fally with all their force upon They fally
eur fortifications, where the aſcent was eafieft; which the out of the
Romans having immediate intelligence of, by the beacons town early
(as CÆSAR had before commanded) made hafte to relieve ing,
the place, where the enemy, emboldened by deſpair, and
placing their fafety only in their valour, fought as bravely
as men could do againſt thoſe who had the advantage of but are re-
towers and ramparts; but 4000 being flain on the foot, pulitd.
the rest retreated into the town. The next day, without
the leaft oppofition CESAR forced the gates, and enter-
ing with his army plundered the town, and fold the people
for flaves, the number of whom amounted to 53,000.
CHA P. XIII.
34. ABOUT the fame time P. CRASSUS (whom CE-
SAR had fent with a legion to take in Vennes, Coutances,
Landreguet, Cornoüalle, Bretagne, Eureux, and Renes,
their maritime towns) fent him word that thofe places had
all fubmitted to the Roman empire.
35. The wars being thus fuccefsfully ended, and all the
provinces of Gaul in peace, fo great a terror did CÆSAR'S
victories ftrike into the barbarians round about, that the
nations beyond the Rhine fent embaſſadors to offer him
hoftages, and obedience to whatever he pleafed to com-
mand
in the morn-
44
C. J. CÆSA R³S, &c.
Book II,
WAR IN mand them; but being in hafte to return to Lombardy,
GAUL. he commanded them to come again the next fpring. Hav-
ing difpofed his army into winter-quarters in Chartrain,
Anjou, and Tours, which lay neareſt the country he had
laft fubdued, he took his journey to Italy; and having fent
the fenate an account of his fuccefs, a general thankſgiving
was decreed, which lafted fifteen days, an honour which
no man, before that time, had ever obtained.
C. J. CÆ.
C. J. CESAR's
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The THIRD BOOK.
The war with the people of Valais, Vannes, Eureux,
Coutances, Gafcoigne, Teroüenne, and Guelders.
W
CHAP. I.
HEN CÆSAR returned to Italy, he fent SERGIUS WAR IN
GALBA, with the twelfth legion, and a party of GAUL.
horſe, againſt the people of Elen, Valais, and
Sion, whofe territories, beginning at the confines of Savoy,
the lake of Geneva, and the river Rhofne, extend them-
ſelves to the top of the Alps. His commiffion was to make
the road over the Alps open to the merchants, who uſed to
be expoſed in their paffage to great dangers, as well as ſub-
jected to heavy cuftoms, with orders, if he fhould think it
convenient, to take up his winter-quarters there, with one
legion.
GALBA, after fome fuccefsful rencounters, having
made himſelf maſter of feveral forts, received embaſſadors
from all the country round, who came to offer him hoſtages;
whereupon he concluded a peace, refolving to quarter two
cohorts of his legion in the country of Elen, and to lodge
himſelf with the reſt in Martenac, the capital of Valais.
This
46
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
This town is fituated in a little valley, divided by the
GAUL. river, and furrounded by ſteep mountains on every fide;
of which having given one half to the Gauls, he took pof-
feffion of the other with his cohorts, whith they fortified
with a ditch and a rampier.
Galba be-
2. After he had continued here feveral days, and given
fieged by orders to the country to bring in what corn he had oc-
the Valais. cafion for, he received very unexpected news, that the
Gauls had forfaken their part of the city, and that the hills
around were covered with multitudes of the people of Va-
lais and Sion. The inducement to this revolt was the
fmall number of the Roman troops, which did not amount
to one legion; for two cohorts had been quartered in
Elen; and ſeveral of thoſe who ftaid with GALEA, were
gone out a foraging. Befides, fo advantageous was the
fituation of the place, they imagined they fhould defcend
with fuch impetuofity from the mountains, that the
Romans would not be able to ftand the firft affault.
Add to this, that the natives thought it a great hardſhip to
be robbed of their children under the name of hoſtages;
and fufpected that the Romans, not contented with a clear
paffage over the Alps, would attempt to get poffeffion of
them, and unite them to their province.
3. Upon this intelligence GALBA, who had neither
finiſhed his fortifications, nor ftored himſelf with fufficient
provifions (becauſe he little dreamt of an infurrection, af-
ter the people had furrendered themſelves, and delivered
hoftages) immediately fummoned a council of war, to con
fult what was proper to be done: All the officers were
ftrangely furprized at fo unexpected a revolution; and
fome of them, feeing the mountains round about poffeffed
with foldiers (who had fo pofted themfelves, that there was
no hope of receiving provifion or relief) could find out no
other expedient for their fafety, but, leaving the heavy bag-
gage behind, and fallying out, to force their paffage through
the enemy at the fame place where they entered; but the
majority were of a different opinion, holding it more con-
venient to referve that as their laft refuge, and in the mean
time, fortifying their camp, to attend the decifion of for-
tune.
CHA P. II.
The Romans
4. BUT, before the Romans had time to execute fuch
aflaulted in orders as were refolved on for their defence, the enemy,
upon a fign given, furioufly affaulted our camp oil fides
their camp.
with
{
Book III.
47
COMMENTARIES.
with ſtones and darts; which our men at firſt couragiouſly WAR IN
returned, not cafting one dart from the ramparts in vain; GAUL.
and wherever they faw the enemy make the ſtrongeſt ef-
forts, thither they flocked to oppoſe them. But the rebels
had much the advantage of us in this, that whenever their
foremoſt ranks began to faint, freſh men fupplied their
places; which we, having fo fmall a body of troops, were
not able to do; fo that, with us, neither the weary nor the
wounded were permitted to quit their pofts.
5. After the conflict had endured for the fpace of fix
hours, our men wanting weapons as well as ftrength, whilft
the enemy preſſed us with the greater vigour as we grew faint,
when things were reduced to the laſt extremity (for they
had already filled great part of our ditch, and began to de-
moliſh our rampart) P. SEXTUS BACULUS, the primiple,
who, we obferved before, received many wounds in the
war with the Hainaultois, and CAIUS VOLUSENUS, a
tribune of the foldiers, a man of great courage and con-
duct, came to GALBA, and informed him, that there was
no expedient left, but to fally out, and put their fortune upon
one brifk attempt. GALBA therefore, having fummoned
all the centurions, ordered them to give the foldiers refpite
for a while, and that they fhould only receive the enemy's
darts, without returning any, 'till a fign fhould be given for
fallying out of the camp, when they must rely only on their
courage for the prefervation of their lives.
his Romans
fally out of
6. Theſe orders were fo well executed, that iffuing out Galba and
of the camp from all fides at the fame inftant, they nei-
ther allowed the enemy time to rally their forces, nor to their camp,
know what was the matter: which gave fo fudden a turn put the ene-
of fortune, that they, who but the moment before pro-and entirely
my to flight,
miſed themſelves the poffeffion of our camp and baggage, defeat them,
were now furrounded on all fides, and out of 30,000, tor
fo many came to attack us, one third loft their lives, whilft
the remainder were obliged to procure their fafety by
flight, being driven off the mountains round about. Thus
having entirely defeated the enemy, and taken their arms,
we returned again to our quarters.
Galba re-
But GALBA was not willing, after this battle, to try for-
tune's good-nature a fecond time; for confidering he had turns into
met with fuch a troubleſome bufinefs, as he little ex- Savoy.
pected when firſt he came thither, and finding provifions.
began to grow fcarce, having fet fire to the town, he re-
turned the next day towards the Province, marched his le-
gion without oppofition through the country of Elen, and
from
48
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN from thence arrived fafe in Savoy, where he took up his
GAUL. quarters the reft of the winter.
The Gauls
revolt.
CHA P. III.
Cæfar goes
7. CESAR, having many reafons to believe that all
to Illyricum. things in Gaul were quiet, that there was no probability of
new infurrections fince the Belgæ had been defeated, the
Germans expelled, and the people of Valais fubdued, at
the beginning of the winter took a progrefs to Illyricum,
being defirous to fee that country: but moſt unexpectedly
new troubles aroſe in Gaul upon this occafion. Young
P. CRASSUS, who was quartered with the feventh legion
near the fea-fide in Anjou, finding provifions very ſcarce in
that country, fent out the horſe-officers and tribunes to de-
mand corn for his legion in the cities round about. T.
TERRASIDIUS he fent to the Eufubii, TREBIUS GAL-
LUS to Cornoüalle, QUINTUS VELANIUS and TITUS
SILIUS to Vannes.
The Gauls
impriſon the
Roman
commiffa
ries.
8. This laft is one of the moft potent diftricts of thoſe
nations upon the fea-coaft; for being well ſtored with
ſhipping, with which they trade to England, they are bet-
ter mariners than any of their neighbours, are maſters of
thoſe few fea-ports which lie on the coaſt of ſo tempeftu-
ous a fea as theirs, and exact tribute from moft merchants
that fail on that ocean.
Theſe ſet the first example, by detaining SILIUS and
VELANIUS; by which means they hoped to recover the
hoftages they had delivered to CRASSUS: the next country
imitating them, did the like by TREBIUS and TERRA-
SIDIUS; and immediately fending embaladors to each
other (for the Gauls are very fudden in their refolutions)
they entered into an alliance, not to take any ſteps with-
out the public and mutual conſent, and to ſhare the ſame
fortune whatever turn it ſhould take. Nor did they leave
any thing uneffayed, to incite the reft of the provinces
round them, to affert that liberty which they had received
from their anceſtors, and not to ftoop to the dominion of
a ftranger. Having thus drawn all the fea port towns into
the fame confpiracy with themfelves, they fent deputies to
CRASSUS to let him know," If he expected his officers
"If
liberty, he muſt return their hoftages."
CHAP.
Book III. COMMENTARIES.
CHA P. IV.
49
~~
9. CÆSAR, having intelligence from CRASSUS how WAR IN
affairs went, being then at a great diſtance from the army, GAUL.
commanded feveral gallies and fhips to be built on the
river Loire, which runs into the ocean, and lifted Cæfar builds
great
numbers of pilots and mariners in the Province; which marches into
a navy, and
being accompliſhed with wondrous expedition, ſo ſoon as Gaul,
the ſeaſon permitted he arrived in Gaul. The people of
Vannes in the mean time, and the rest of their confede-
rates, who had intelligence of CÆSAR's arrival (confider-
ing how great a crime they had been guilty of, in vio-
lating the law of nations, by putting the embaffadors in
chains) were not idle, but prepared all things neceflary to
defend them from the impending danger, eſpecially a con-
fiderable navy.
CHAP.
V.
THEY flattered themſelves with fuccefs in this enter-
prize, by reaſon of their ftrong fituation; for there was
no coming at them by land, becaufe the paffes were ftop-
ped up by feveral arms of the ocean; nor were they worſe
fortified on the other fide, the entrance by way of the fea
being very difficult and dangerous; for they had but few
ports, and the Romans were altogether ftrangers to their
coaft. Befides, they were in hopes the Roman army
would not be able to fubfift there long without provifions,
which were not to be had in the country: and though
things fhould fall out otherwife, ftill they were fuperior at
fea, to the Romans, who had but a ſmall number of fhips,
were unacquainted with the flats, fhallows, ports, and
iflands of the place where they were to engage, and found
the practice of navigation in thoſe narrow feas far different
from that on the wider ocean.
ces.
Big with thefe expectations they began to fortify their The Gauls
towns, to carry all the corn out of the fields into their preparations
arfenals, and convey their ſhipping to Vannes, the place and allian
they were informed CÆSAR defigned firſt to attack, having
before-hand engaged the people of Landreguet, Leifieux,
Nants, Lendoul, Teroüenne, and Guelders to become
their allies, and fent for alliftance from England, which
lies oppofite to thoſe countries.
All thefe difficulties concurred to diffuade CASAR
from engaging in the war; but, on the other hand, many
reafons
E
50
C. J. CÆSAR'S Book III.
Cæfar fends
WAR IN reaſons made it abfolutely neceffary; firft the injury offered
GAUL. the Roman knights by detaining them; then the rebellion
raiſed after a general fubmiffion, and hoſtages given for
feveral par- good behaviour; and laftly, the revolt of fo many cities,
ties to dif- which, if neglected, might prove of bad example to the
ferent places reft. Confidering therefore that all the Gauls were prone
cut off all to novelty, and eaſily induced to undertake a war, that it
was natural to all mankind to love liberty and deteſt ſervi-
tude, he thought it the moft convenient way, before any
more cities came into this alliance, to divide his army, and
diftribute it into feveral places.
in Gaul, to
fuccours
from the
enemy.
Cafar tikes
feveral
towns, but
always
elcape.
II. He fent therefore TITUS LABIENUS with the
cavalry to Treves, which borders on the Rhine, com-
manding him to have an eye over the people of Rheims,
and to keep the reft of the Belge thereabouts in obe-
dience; and if the Germans fhould attempt by force to
tranſport any troops over the Rhine, as they had been de-
fired, he fhould prevent it. PUBLIUS CRASSUS, with
twelve legionary cohorts and a party of horfe, he detached
to Gascoigne, to cut off all affiſtance from thofe parts:
Q. TITURIUS SABINUS, with three legions, he ordered to
Leifieux, Landreguet, and Coutances, to difappoint the
rebels hopes in thofe countries; and having made D. BRU-
TUS,admiral of the navy, and of the French veffels he had
received from thofe of Poitou, Xantonge, and the other
provinces which continued firm in their obedience, he or-
dered him to fail with all expedition to Vannes, himſelf fol-
lowing after by land with the foot.
CHAP.
VI.
12. THE confederate cities, being moſt of them
fituated upon promontories, could not be attacked by land
the befieged at high-water, which always happened once in fix hours;
nor yet by fea, for upon the ebb of the tide the fhips were
left upon the fands as a prey to the enemy; and whenever
the Romans endeavoured to exclude the ocean by artificial
mounts, which they raiſed to an equal height with the walls
of the town, the enemy. fo foon as we were prepared to
enter, having plenty of fhipping, quickly conveyed them-
felves and their effects away by ſea to the next port, where
they enjoyed the fame advantages as before
Thus they
difappointed us moft part of the fummer; for the Roman
Alect durft not venture out of the Loire into ſo vaſt and
tempeftuous an ocean, where the tides were ſtrong, the
roads
Book III. COMMENTARIES.
51
roads and havens but few, and at a confiderable diftance WAR
from one another.
GAUL.
IN
13. The enemy had a great advantage over us in their
fhipping, which was thus built and rigged:
"Their keels Defcription
were flatter than ours, confequently more convenient for of the Gauls
fhipping.
the ſhallows and low tides; their fore-caftles were very
high, their poops contrived to endure the roughneſs of the
ſea; the body of their veffels built of impenetrable oak:
the banks for the oars were beams a foot ſquare, faſtened
at each end with iron pins an inch thick: inftead of ca-
bles for their anchors, they made ufe of iron chains, and
had hides for their fails, either becauſe they wanted linen,
and were ignorant of its uſe, or, what is more likely,
thought linen fails not ftrong enough to endure their boifter-
ous feas, their impetuous winds, and carry veſſels of ſo
confiderable burthen. So that whenever our fhips en-.
countered them, we only had the advantage in tacking
about by the management of our oars; but in all other
things they had much the better of us, being built more
convenient for the nature of the place, and more able to
endure a ſtorm; their fhells were fo extraordinary hard,
our beaks could not enter them, and their deck fo high,
we could do but little execution with our daits; befides,
whenever a ftorm arofe, which obliged them to ſubmit to
the pleaſure of the winds, being ftrong built, they were
better able to weather it out, and could fhelter them-
felves with fafety amongst the flats, without fear of the
rocks, or thoſe other inconveniencies which the Romans
were ſubject to."
CHAP. VII.
14. CÆSAR having taken in one town after ano-
ther, the enemy ftill conveyed themfelves to the next;
wherefore perceiving he ſpent his time to no purpoſe, for
he could neither prevent their eſcape, nor do them any
confiderable damage, he refolved to attend the arrival of
his navy; which was no fooner come, but the enemy im-
mediately, having rigged out 220 fail of tall veffels, and
equipped them with all things neceffary, ftood out to fea
juft over against us. The admiral BRUTU, the tribunes, The Roman
and centurions who commanded the Roman ficct, were navy arrives;
fo furprized at this unexpected fight, that they knew not flects drawn
what methods to take, or in what order to draw up their
gallies; for the enemy's fhipping was fo ftrong, our beaks gage.
E 2
could
the two
up; they en-
52
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R’S
WAR IN could do them no prejudice; and had we built turrets on
GAUL. the decks, as ufual, yet we could not have mounted them
TheRomans
take and
fink almoſt
all their
Ships.
The end of
the war.
to a fufficient height to equal that of their poops; in which
particular they had a great advantage over us; for as we
could not do them much prejudice by our weapons, be-
cauſe we lay fo much lower than they, fo on the contrary
their darts defcended on us with a much greater force. But
we happened to have one fort of inſtrument amongſt our
ftores, which proved exceeding ufeful; we had provided a
great number of fharp crooked fythes, like thoſe uſed in
fieges, which we fixed to the end of long poles, and lay-
ing hold of their tackle, towed the veffels away by the
help of our oars; thus cutting their cables, the main-yard
fell down, whereby the enemy, who relied on their fails
and rigging, were at once deprived of their fails, and the
ufe of their veffels. And now the difpute depending en-
tirely upon courage, the Romans eafily got the better, and
the rather, becaufe, fighting in the view of CASAR and
the whole army, they were affured of fo many witneſſes of
their valour; for all the hills and rifing grounds, which
looked upon the fea, were covered with our foldiers.
15. The enemy's main yards being thus cut down, the
Romans endeavoured to board them, though each veſſel of
ours was ſurrounded by two or three of theirs; which the
Gauls perceiving, after they had loſt ſeveral of their ſhips,
finding no other way for fafety, began to tack about be-
fore the wind, but were of a fudden fo becalmed, that their
flight was prevented; which fell out very opportunely for
the Romans, who grappling with them, boarded fo many,
that after the battle had continued from between eight and
nine in the morning 'till fun-fet, few of their number had
the fortune to fave themſelves, and get to land by the
affiftance of the night.
16. This battle put an end to the war with Vannes and
the reſt of the maritime towns; for at this difpute were
prefent not only all the youth of their country, but even
thofe of maturer years, who might affift the labouring fate
of their country, either by authority or advice; and hither
had they brought all the veffels they were able to rig out;
which being loft, they who escaped the flaughter, not
knowing whither to fly, nor how to defend their towns
against CÆSAR, delivered themſelves up to his mercy;
towards whom CÆSAR fhewed the greater feverity, that
he might teach fuch barbarians for the future to obferve
the law of nations, whereby the perfons of embaffadors are
protected;
Book III.
53
COMMENTARIES.
protected; for he put all their fenators to the fword, and
fold the people for flaves.
CHAP.
VIII.
17. IN the mean time L. TITURIUS SABINUS Was Sabinus's ex-
marching with his forces to the confires of Coutances, a pedition to
Coutances.
people fubject to VIRIDOVIX, th generaliffimo for the
revolted towns, who had furniſhed him with a numerous
and potent army. The fenators of Eureux, Rhoan, and
Leifieux, could not be drawn into this confederacy; but
the common people, having murdered them, fhut up their
city gates, and joined with VIRIDOVIX; to whom like-
wife flocked great numbers from Gaul, men of deſperate
fortunes, and thieves, whom the hopes of plunder induced
to prefer the ftudy of war before that of hufbandry and
daily labour.
SABINUS, having encamped himſelf in a convenient
place, permitted not his men to ftir out of their trenches;
whilft VIRIDOVIx, who lodged within two miles of him,
drew his forces out every day to offer him battle; which
the other ſo often refuſed, that at laft he was not only
fufpected by the enemy, but even by his own foldiers, of
cowardife; and fo craftily did he act his part, that the
enemy had the affurance to come even to our very trenches.
The reafon he gave for his conduct, was, that he did not
think it juſtifiable for a lieutenant to engage an army fo
much more numerous than his own, during the abfence of
the general, but upon advantage of time or place.
Sabinus's
18. Thus having confirmed the enemy in their opinion,
he made choice of a fubtle Gaul amongst the auxiliary stratagem.
troops, whom he perfuaded, by confiderable prefents and and ſucceſs.
greater promiſes, to go over to the enemy, and there act
according to fuch inftructions as he ſhould give him. This
inftrument being arrived at their camp, and received as a
deferter, informed them how much the Romans were
afraid of them, what extremities CESAR was driven to by
the people of Vannes, and that SABINUS defigned the next
night privately to decamp, and make what hafte he could
to his affiftance. No fooner had they heard this news,
but they unanimously cried out, that fo lucky an oppor-
tunity was not to be flipped, and that they would attack
the Romans in their intrenchments. Many circumſtances
concurred, which induced the Gauls to embrace this refo-
lution; SABINUs's declining battle fo often, the intelli-
E 3
gence
54
Book III.
C. J. CESAR'S
WAR IN gence from the deferter, want of provifions, which they
GAUL. had not taken fufficient care for, their hopes in their con-
The Gauls
tack the Ro-
man camp,
but are re-
routed.
federates of Vannes, and that credulous humour which
always inclines men to believe what they wish. Spurred
by theſe motives, the foldiers would not permit VIRI-
DOVIX and the rcft of the general officers to break up the
council, before they had refolved upon forcing the Roman
camp; which being agreed on, they went as chearfully to
work, as if they had already obtained the victory; and
having provided plenty of fafcines, to fill up the ditches,
made the beft of their way to attack us.
19 The Romans were incamped on the top of a rifing
ground, which mounted with an eafy afcent from the le-
vel; and the enemy made fo much hafte to prevent our
having notice of their defign, that they ran themſelves
out of breath before they came at us. SABINUS, who
Fulfed and was better prepared to receive them than they imagined,
having encouraged his foldiers, gave them the fign of bat-
tle; then fallying out of two feveral gates of the camp at
once upon the enemy (whilft they were loaden with thoſe
materials they had brought to fill up our trenches) the ad-
vantage of the ground, their faintnefs and want of ex-
perience, our courage and conduct, foon decided the
battle in favour of the Romans; for the enemy, not be-
ing able to ftand the firſt onfet, choſe rather to depend on
their heels than their hands, whilft our troops being freſh
and vigorous, purfued and flew great numbers of them.
Nor were their horſe able to preſerve themſelves from the
fame fate, for our cavalry followed them ſo cloſe, that few
efcaped. Thus at the fame time SABINUS heard of the
defeat at fea, CÆSAR was informed of SABINUS's fuccefs
at land.
Craffus's
against the
Gafcoigres.
Upon the news of theſe victories all the provinces which
TITURIUS was fent againft, furrendered themſelves;
for as
the Gauls are eager to enter into a war, fo upon the ſmalleſt
turn they relent, being impatient of afflictions.
CHA P. IX.
20. MUCH about the fame time P. CRASSUS ar-
Expedition rived at Gafcoigne, which, as we have already taken notice,
as well for the number of its inhabitants as its extent of
land, deferves to be eſteemed a third part of Gaul; and
confidering he was to manage a war in the fame country
where lieutenant-general L. VALERIUS PRÆCONINUS for-
merly
Book III,
55
COMMENTARIES.
IN
merly was defeated, and loft his life, where LUCIUS MA-WAR
NILIUS was glad to purchaſe his eſcape at the expence of GAUL.
his baggage, he thought it behoved him to take more than
ordinary care: wherefore having provided his army with
corn, having raiſed fome cavalry, levied troops in the auxi-
liary countries, and fent for feveral brave volunteers from
Tholouſe and Narbonne, cities next adjoining to the Ro-
man province, he marched his army into the confines of
Sots. The natives were no fooner acquainted with his ar-
rival, but they immediately levied a confiderable army of
horfe and foot, and with their cavalry (whom they moft
relied on) engaged the Romans whilst they were upon their
march: we eafily put them to the rout; but when we were
purſuing them, their infantry appeared in a valley where
they had watched for us in ambufcade, and fetting upon The Gauls
our men whilst they were difordered in the purfuit, be-in ambuf-
gan the fight afreſh.
cade.
21. The diſpute was long and doubtful; for the enemy,
grown proud with the memory of their former victories,
thought the fate of all Gafcoigne depended on their fingle
virtue; whilft the Romans, on the other hand, exerted
themſelves to ſhew what they were able to do, without their
general, without the affiftance of the reft of the legions,
and under the command of fo young a foldier. At laſt,
the Gauls much wounded began to fly, and CRASSUS The Gauls
having flain great numbers of them, marched directly to routed; they
their capital, which he inveſted. The befieged maintained retire to their
capital.
their poffeffion with great bravery, notwithſtanding we ap-
proached their walls with vines, mounts, and turrets; fome-
times fallying, and fometimes undermining our works;
an art they are very expert in, by reafon of the number
of copper mines in their country; but at laft perceiving Craffus in-
the induſtry of the Romans fruftrated their endeavours, veits it, and
they fent deputies to CRASSUS, to defire he would be they agree
pleaſed to accept of a furrender; which they obtained, on
delivery of their arms.
to furrender.
Soldurii or
22. But whilft the whole army expected the performance
of this article, ADCANTUANUS, who commanded the Adcantua-
town, endeavoured to make his efcape out of one of the nus, and his
poſtern gates, "with fix hundred fworn friends, whom worn
the natives call Soldurii, whoſe cuſtom is, to enjoy all friends.
things in common with thoſe to whom they have vowed a
friendſhip; to ſhare always the fame fortune, and kill them-
felves rather than furvive the death of their comrades. Nor
` has it ever been known that any of them ever failed in his
E 4
duty,
56
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN duty, or declined death, when his friend was killed." But
GAUL. the alarm from that part of the works foon fummoned our
men thither, where after a warm conflict the enemy were
driven back again into the town; but, notwithſtanding, ob-
tained the favour of being comprehended within the fame
treaty.
The Gauls
reign fuc-
cours and
captains
23. CRASSUS, having received hoftages from them, left
their country, to march against the people of De Buch, and
Turfan.
CHAP. X.
THE Gauls being much disturbed, that a place fo well
rally again, fortified both by art and nature fhould fall in fo fmall a time
fend for fo- into the Romans hands, began to enter into mutual alli-
ances with one another in all parts, fending embaffadors,
and exchanging hoftages for that purpofe; and having firſt
from Spain. levied what forces they could in their own country, fent
deputies to Spain, and the other countries that bordered on
Gaſcoigne, whence they received fupplies with ſeveral ex-
perienced officers; upon whofe arrival they began the war
very bifkly with a numerous army, making choice of
fuch for their commanders, who, having ferved under SER-
TORIUS, were reputed to be men of conduct and experience
in the military art. Thefe, according to the cuſtom of the
Romans, began to pitch upon convenient places to encamp
in, to intrench themfelves, and intercept our convoys;
which CRASSUS perceiving, thought it the fafeft way to
give the enemy battle immediately, becaufe his army was
fo fmall, he could not detach parties, like the Gauls, to pof-
fefs themſelves of particular paffes, and yet leave a fufficient
number to fecure his camp; which would of neceffity, in
time, make provifions grow fcarce with the Romans, whilſt
the enemy's power encreaſed: wherefore, having fum-
moned a council of war, finding all the officers of his
opinion, he appointed the day following to give them battle.
The Ro-
24. Accordingly the next morning, by dawn of day, he
mans offer drew out all his forces, and having ranged them in a double
them battle, line, difpofed the auxiliaries in the midft, expecting what
motions the enemy would make: but the Gauls, though
they fancied they might fafely venture an engagement, as
well on the fcore of their number, as of their ancient
prowess, yet thought it the better way to block up all the
paffes, intercept the Roman convoys, and obtain a victory
without the expence of blood; refolving, when the Romans
fhould be reduced to quit their camp for want of provifions,
2
to
Book III.
57
COMMENTARIES.
4
WAR IN
to attack their rear, whilst they were faint with hunger, WAR
weary with travel, and incumbered with their baggage. GAUL.
This advice feemed moft agreeable to the whole council of
Gauls re-
the Gauls; and therefore when the Romans profered them but the
battle, they kept within their camp and declined it.
CHAP. XI.
CRASSUS perceiving their defign, and finding his
men more eager for the engagement, becauſe they thought
the enemy were afraid of them, whilft they all exclaimed
againſt delay, defiring they might immediately attack the
Gauls in their camp, he incouraged their defire, and, to their
infinite fatisfaction, led them to the place where the enemy
was lodged.
fufe it.
their camp.
4
25. Whilſt ſome were bufy in filling the ditch, and others The Ro-
endeavouring to force the Gauls from their trenches with mans attack
their darts, the auxiliaries, on whom CRASSUS had no
great dependance, were employed in bringing ftones and
darts to the foldiers, and turf to the mount, that they might
appear to be engaged as well as the reft. The Gauls in the
mean time maintained their ground obftinately, doing great
execution with their darts from the higher ground; which
the horſemen perceiving, took a compafs about to view
their camp, and brought CRASSUS word, that the ram-
part of the Decuman port was not ſo ſtrongly fortified as
other places, and they believed it might eaſily be forced.
port of the
26. Whereupon CRASSUS, having defired the horſe-
officers to encourage their men by confiderable rewards and
promiſes, gave them inſtructions what he thought fit to have
done. According to their orders, marching with four freſh
cohorts that had been left in the camp, and no way's con-
cerned in the fatigue of the day, they took a circuit to pre-
vent being obferved; and, whilft the Gauls were intent on The Roman
the engagement, arrived at the place appointed, which they cavalry enter
eafily forced, and entered the enemy's camp before the the Decuman
Gauls could perceive who they were, or what they were Gauls camp.
doing; then giving us notice by a loud acclamation, our
foldiers in the front, as they always do, when there is hope
of victory, renewed the battle with freſh vigour. The
enemy being thus furrounded, jumped over the rampier
in defpair, endeavouring to fave themfelves by flight; but
being an open country, our cavalry purſued and killed fuch
numbers of them, that out of 50,000 which came from The Gauls
Spain and Gafcoigne, there hardly escaped a fourth part
ent rely
routed,
27. Upon
58
C. J. CESAR'S, &c. Book III.
WAR IN
[
GAUL
All Gaf-
27. Upon the news of this victory, the greateft part of
Gascoigne voluntarily fubmitted to CESAR, and fent him
hoftages; viz. the people of Pais de Labard, Bigorre, Pre-
coigne fub cins, De Buch, Turfan, Eufe, Pais de Gavre, Auch, Ga-
ronne, Sibutz, and Bazadois; only fome few diſtricts that
lay at a greater diftance, depending on the approach of
winter, held out.
mits.
ders.
CHAP. XII.
Cæfar's ex-
28. MUCH about the fame time, CÆSAR, though the
pedition to
Terouenne fummer was almoſt ſpent, made an expedition againſt Te-
and Gucl- roüenne and Guelders, becauſe they were the only pro-
vinces that had not laid down their arms, nor fent embaf-
fadors to treat of peace, whilft all the other countries of
Gaul had fubmitted to the Roman empire. Thinking he
might diſpatch this expedition in a very fhort time, he march-
ed his army into their country; but, contrary to his expecta-
tion, found they had a method of making war much dif-
ferent from the reft of the Gauls; for, underſtanding that
the moft potent provinces in their continent that had en-
gaged with the Romans, were defeated, they thought it the
wifeft way to convey themſelves and their effects into the
woods and bogs, whereof they had plenty in their country.
CÆSAR, fo foon as he was come near the woods, began
to entrench himf.lf; but on a fudden the enemy, whom
he could not diſcover to be there, fallied out of the thickets,
whilft his men were difperfed, and employed about dif
ferent charges; but they were cafily repulfed to the woods,
where the Romans following them unadvifedly, loft fome
of their men.
29 CESAR refolved to spend the remainder of the fum-
mer in clearing the ground; and that his army might be no
more furprized whilſt they were at work, he caufed all the
timber they cut down to be laid on each fide for a fortifi-
cation, and in a few days made fo extraordinary a progrefs,
that all the enemy's cattle were taken, though they them-
felves had the good fortune to eſcape into the thicker woods.
The continual rains which fell foon after, put a ſtop to
The rains
put a ftop
the undertaking; for the foldiers were no longer able
Cæfar's pro- to lie in their tents: wherefore CÆSAR, having laid their
grefs.
country waſte, burnt their towns and houſes, returned back
again, and quartered his army at Eureux, Leifieux, and
thoſe other places which he had laſt fubdued.
C. J. CE-
•
5
}
C. J. CÆSAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The FOURTH BOOK.
Book.
The inhabitants of Zutphen and Heffe drive thofe of
Guelders out of their country; but are defeated
by CÆSAR. His expeditions into Germany and
England.
T
CHAP. I.
{
GAUL.
the Rhine.
The customs
of the Sua-
bians.
H E next winter, during the confulate of CN. POM- WAR IN
PEIUS and M. CRASSUS, the inhabitants of Heffe
and Zutphen, two German nations, croffed the
Rhine in great numbers towards that end where it dif- The Ger-
charges itſelf into the fea. The reafon why they left mans cross
their country was, becauſe they had been fo long op-
preffed by the Suabians, the moſt potent and warlike na-
tion amongſt the Germans. "The Suabians are divided
into an hundred cantons; each of theſe yearly bring a
thousand men into the field, ftill retaining the fame num-
ber at home, to provide for themſelves and the army;
who the year following go abroad, and relieve their
countrymen; by which means they all obtain experience
in huſbandry and military affairs at once. They have no
incloſure, no man has an acre of land which he can pro-
perly term his own; nor are they fuffered to continue
above
,
60
Book IV.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
I
WAR IN above one year in the fame part of the country: their chief
GAUL. diet is milk and flefh-meat, and their diverfion hunting,
The quality of their food, their perpetual exerciſe, and way
of living (being educated to no calling, obliged to no dif-
cipline, nor reftrained from any thing their inclinations
prompt them to) make them very robuft, and of an extra-
ordinary ftature: cuftom has rendered them fo hardy, that
they waſh themſelves in their rivers, and wear no cloaths
even in the coldeft weather, except ſmall ſkins, which
hardly cover one half of their bodies, whilſt the reſt is ex-
poſed to the weather.
2. Merchants frequent their coafts, not ſo much to
import foreign goods, as to purchaſe the booties they
obtain in war: Beafts of labour, which the Gauls take
much delight in, and think they can never pay too dear
for, the Germans never import from other countries; but
make uſe of their own diftorted cattle, which by daily exer-
cife they inure to the hardeſt fervices. Their horſemen
frequently forfake their horfes in battle, to fight on foot,
having managed them fo well, that they ftand ftill for their
riders in the fame place where they left them; nor do they
efteem any thing more ufelefs and ignominious than furni-
ture for horſes, for which reafon a ſmall party of them
often venture to engage almoſt any number that make ufe
of it. They allow no wine to be imported into their
country, left it ſhould make them lazy and effeminate.
3. The greatcft honour to their nation, in their opinion,
is to have their territories round about lie defolate; from
whence they would have you infer, that the united force
of feveral kingdoms is not fufficient to oppofe their fingle
valour; for which reaſon the country on the ſide of Sua-
bia lies wafte for the fpace of 600 miles together. The
other part is bounded by the Ubii, who enjoy a large
and flouriſhing country, a people much politer than their
German neighbours, becaufe, lying nearer the Rhine,
they have more commerce with merchants, and conver-
fation with the Gauls." With theſe the Suabians had
many difputes; and though they were fo experienced
foldiers, fo potent and numerous a people, that they
could not expel them the country, yet they made them
their tributaries, and reduced them to a very low con-
dition.
*
CHAP.
t
Book IV. COMMENTARIES.
61
CHA P. II.
*.
mans invade
feems rather
thofe that
4. THE inhabitants of Heffe and Zutphen, whom we WAR IN
mentioned before, were engagei in the fame quarrel, and GAUL.
having long maintained their ground against the Suabians,
were at laft obliged to quit their country. Being thus com- The Ger-
pelled to feek their fortune, after three years wandring Guelders.
through the continent of Germany, they arrived at the
territories of the people of Guelders, who inhabit the Though
banks on both fides the river Rhine. The natives frighted Scaliger
at the unexpected arrival of fo many foreigners, deferting to think the
their houſes on the other fide the Rhine, croffed the river, Menapii are
and planted themfelves fo as to prevent the Germans fur- now inhabit
ther progrefs; who having tried all ways, finding they had the fea-
not ſhipping enough to force their paffage, and that they coats of
could not get over by ſtealth, becauſe the natives kept fo
ftrict a watch, at laft feigned a retreat into their own
country; but, after three days journey, returned again to
the fame place with their cavalry in one night's march,
and furpriſed the natives, who being affured by their ſcouts
of the enemy's retreat, had forgot their fears, and tranf-
ported themſelves to their former habitations. Thefe be-
ing thus put to the fword, the Germans feizing their veffels,
before the people on the other fide knew any thing of the
matter, croffed the Rhine, poffeffed themſelves of the
towns and houſes there, and took up their quarters for the
reft of the winter.
Brabant.
5. CÆSAR having intelligence of this matter, was jea-
lous of the levity of the Gauls, "who are fo fickle in The temper
their counfels, and fuch paffionate lovers of novelty, that of the Gauls.
they ſtop paſſengers upon the road, and oblige them to de-
clare all the news they have heard, before they let them
proceed on their journey: the mob likewife flock about
foreign merchants, to enquire what country they came
from, and what intelligence by bring from thence: by
which reports they often gover hemfelves in the manage-
ment of their moſt important fairs; confequ. ntly being
fwayed by uncertainties, calated for the most part by
the traveller for fatisfaction o the enquirer, they must of-
ten repent of the refolutions they take."
CHAP.
1
CHA P. III.
WAR IN
GAUL.
Cæfar
find out the
Germans.
man em-
ballage.
6. CÆSAR therefore being fo well acquainted with
their temper, made more hafte than uſual to put himſelf
at the head of his army, where he was no fooner arrived,
but he found his fufpicions true, that fome provinces of
Gaul had already ſent embaſſadors to invite the Germans
from the banks of the Rhine farther into the continent,
p omifing them that every thing ſhould be got ready
which they defired; whereupon the Germans had begun
to make inroads, and lay the country waſte, as far as the
confines of Liege, and Condrotz, which is under the pro-
tection of Treves: for which reafon CÆSAR, having fum-
moned all the princes of Gaul, took no notice of the re-
volt he had been informed of, but confirming them in
their allegiance by a feeming approbation of their loyalty,
commanded them to furnish him with a certain number of
cavalry; being determined to make war on the Germans.
7. So foon as he had provided his army with corn, and
marches to raifed a body of horfe, he marched to the place where he
underſtood the Germans were; who, upon his arrival
within a few days journey of them, fent embaffadors to
The Ger- acquaint him, "That as the Germans were not defirous
of giving the Romans the firft occafion for a war, fo nei-
ther ſhould they avoid engaging with them, if provoked
to it; for it had always been the cuftom of the Germans.
to anſwer an enemy at his own weapons, not by treaty;
though they must confefs they came thither againſt their
wills, being expelled their own country: and if the Ro-
mans would accept of their friendship, if they would
either allot them land to live in, or permit them to keep
that which they had obtained by the law of arms, they
might find them neceffary allies; for they only fubmitted
to the Suabians, to whom even the immortal gods were
not a fufficient match, but there was not another people
under the fun they were not able to conquer."
Cæfar's an-
fwer.
8. To this CESAR anfwered what he thought moſt
convenient, the fubftance of whofe fpeech was to this ef-
fect; "That he could not enter into an alliance with
them whilſt they continued in Gaul; nor did he think it
juſt that they who were not able to defend their own terri-
tories, fhould invade others; that there was not ſufficient
wafte ground in Gaul to contain fo numerous a people;
but, if they pleaſed, they might find a welcome amongst
3
the
Book IV.
63
COMMENTARIES.
1
the Ubii, who would receive them into their country upon WAR
his interceffion for they had deputie at that inftant in his GAUL.
camp, who came to complain of the injuries they had re-
ceived from the Suabians, and intreat his affiftance againſt
them.'
9. The embaffadors returned with this anſwer to their
countrymen, promiling to wait upon CESAR again in
three days time; defiring that in the mean time he would
not approach with his army nearer their confines: This
CÆSAR would not confent to, being informed that a con-
fiderable party of their cavalry but two days before had
paffed the Mufe, in order to forage the country of the
Ambivariti, and he fufpected their defign was only to gain
time till their party returned.
IN
10. "The Mofe rifes from the mountains of Vaufe in Defcription
the country of Langres; and after a long courſe, receiving of the Moie.
the river Vahal, a ſmall branch of the Rhine, within its
banks, it forms the ifle of Holland, and, about eighteen
miles below that, diſcharges itſelf into the fea. But the
Rhine has its rife in the territories of the Lepontii, who Defcription
inhabit the Alps, and after a long journey through Cou- of theRhine.
tances, Switzerland, Franchecomte, the country of Metz,
Strafburg, and Treves, coming near the fea, is divided into
feveral branches, which form as many confiderable iſlands,
moſt of them inhabited by a barbarous and favage people,
who are reported to feed only on fish, and wild fowls eggs;
from whence by divers chanels it diſcharges itſelf into the
ocean.
י,
from the
11. When CASAR was arrived within twelve miles of A fecond
the enemy, the embaladors came to him a fecond time, embalage
preffing him very earneftly to march no farther, or at leaft Germans.
to fend his cavalry orders, who were gone before the relt
of the army, not to engage the Germans; and that he
would agree to a truce, till they could fend deputies to the
Ubii, by whom they would gladly be received, on fuch
conditions as CÆSAR fhould approve of, and their noble-
men and fenators ſhould oblige themfelves by oath to per-
form; nor would they defire above three days time to
complete the negotiation.
CASAR believed this was only an artifice to procrastinate
for three days longer, till their cavalry returned; however,
he promiſed not to come nearer than within four miles of
their camp, where was a convenient place to water in, and
ordered a confiderable number of them to attend him there
the next day, that he might know their demands; in the
mean
64
Book IV.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN mean time he fent orders to the officers of the horſe not
to provoke the enemy; and in cafe they fhould be at-
tacked themſelves, only to maintain their ground 'till he
came up to their affiftance.
GAUL.
The Ger-
truce attack
the Roman
cavalry.
CHA P. IV.
12. SO foon as the Germans faw our horfe, though
mans after a we had 5000, and they had not above 800 (the party
which had croffed the Mofe to forage not being yet re-
turned) they fell upon our men, who expected no acts of
hoftility from them, becauſe the embaffadors who agreed
on a truce for a day, had not long before left our camp.
Their attack was fo violent, that they put out troops in dif-
order; and when they perceived we began to rally, dif-
mounting, according to the cuftom of the Germans, they
wounded our horfes in the belly, ſo that ſeveral of the ri-
ders were thrown, and the reft put to flight; who were fo
dreadfully frighted, that they never looked behind till they
were come within view of our army. In this fkirmifh we
loft 74 men, amongſt which number fell PISO the Gaf-
coigne, a man of courage equal to his noble birth,
whofe grandfather had formerly been a king in his own
country, and honoured by the fenate and people of Rome
with the title of friend. Secing his brother furrounded by
the enemy, he rushed into the midst of them, and reſcued
him; his own horſe being killed under him in the attempt, he
bravely defended himself on foot, till at length after receiving
many wounds, he was flain; which his brother perceiving,
who was then out of danger, returned to the fight, fpur-
red his horſe in amongst the Germans, and fell a facrifice
to his deliverer, though he could not revenge his death.
The death
of Pifo and
his brother.
66
13. After this battle, CASAR judged it not conve-
nient either to give their embaffadors audience, or accept
of any conditions from a people who had demanded a
truce with a defign to break it; and thinking it madneſs
to ſtay while the enemy was reinforced, and their cavalry
returned (eſpecially fince the Gauls were of fo fickle a
temper, that the Germans had already gained a confider-
able reputation amongſt them by this ſmall fuccefs) he re-
folved not to allow them time for reflection; having there-
fore fent for the general officers, he acquainted them that
he defigned to engage the enemy without further delay.
CHA P.
Book IV. COMMENTARIES.
65
CHAP.
V.
THE next day there fell out a very lucky accident for WAR
the Romans; all the German princes and nobility, making GAUL.
uſe of their former diffimulation, came to our camp, un-
der pretence of excufing themſelves for what had hap-
pened the day before, in relation to the engagement with
our cavalry, contrary to the truce granted at their requeſt,
and withal to defire the fame might be continued: CESAR,
not a little pleaſed with this opportunity, gave orders they
fhould all be fecured, and at the fame time marched his
army directly; the cavalry, who were daunted with the
defeat they received the day before, he ordered to bring
up the rear.
German
14. Having drawn up his troops in three lines, and Cæfar at-
paſſed the eight miles which were betwixt us and the Ger-tacks the
mans, he fell upon them before they dreamed of his com- camp.
ing. They were fo furprized at our fudden arrival, fo-con-
fuſed for want of their officers, that they knew not whe-
ther they had better draw out their forces, defend their
camp, or endeavour to fave themfelves by flight. Their
fear and diſorder was no fooner perceived by the Roman
foldiers, but, remembring the treachery of the preceding
day, they forced their camp, where at firft they met with
fome ſmall refiftance from fuch as had time to repair to
their arms, who engaged them at their carriages, whilſt
the women and children from all fides (for the Germans
had brought their whole families and effects crofs the Rhine
with them) endeavoured to make their efcape, but CÆSAR
fent the horſe to pursue them.
IN
15. The Germans, nearing a noife behind them, turned. The Ger.
about, and ſaw their wives and children put to the ſword ; mans routed,
whereupon throwing down their arms, and deferting their
colours, they ran away from their camp, and arriving at the
river-fide where the Mofe and Rhine begin to flow in one
channel, they who had efcaped the fury of the battle, flung
themſelves in the water, where all of them were drowned
either by their own fear, wearinefs, or the ftrength of the
ftream. After this difpute, the Romans returned to their
camp without the lofs of a man, and with very few
wounded, though the number of the Germans, com-
puting their women and children, amounted to 430,000.
The battle being over, CÆSAR gave thofe whom he
had detained in his camp free leave to depart; but be
ing apprehenfive of the natives revenge for the in-
F
juries
66
Book IV.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN juries they had done them, rather than fall into the hands
GAUL of the Gauls, they defired to ftay in our army, which they
did by CAESAR's permiffion.
The anſwer
CHAP.
VI.
vi.
16. THE war with the natives of Zutphen and Heffe
being thus concluded, CASAR refolved for ſeveral reafons
to cross the Rhine. One of the chief motives that induced
him to it was, his obferving how ready the Germans were
on every occafion to come into Gaul; wherefore he hop-
ed when they perceived the Romans were able to tranſ-
port an army croſs that river as well as themſelves, they
would be more cautious how they left their own country
expoſed for the future; another thing was, that the enemy's
cavalry, who had croffed the Mofe to forage, were ab-
ſent when their countrymen were defeated; and, upon
intelligence of the victory, had retired into the confines of
the Sicambri, where they found a reception; when CÆSAR
fent to demand them, becauſe they had been in arms
againſt him and the Gauls, the people made anſwer,
"That the Rhine bounded the extent of the Roman
of the Si- empire, and if he thought it unjuft for the Germans to
paſs into Gaul, they knew no reaſon that he ſhould af
fume an authority on their fide the river." Beſides, the
Ubii, who were the only people croſs the Rhine, that had
ſent embaſſadors to CÆSAR, who had entered into alliance
with him, and delivered hoftages, earneſtly defired his affift-
ance againſt the oppreffions of the Suabians; and if the
publick affairs would not permit him to go in perſon, that
he would only fend his army into Germany, they would de-
fire no greater aid or encouragement; for fo confiderable
among the remoteft Germans was the reputation which the
Romans had acquired by defeating ARIOVISTUs, and by
their late fuccefs, that if they appeared in defence of the
Ubii, and owned them for their allies, their name alone
would be a ſufficient fecurity; and they obliged themſelves
to furniſh him with a proper number of tranfport-veffels.
cambri to
Cæfar's de-
mand.
17. For theſe reaſons CESAR reſolved to croſs the Rhine;
but he thought it neither fafe to tranſport his army in fhips,
nor agreeable to his character or the dignity of the Ro-
man empire; wherefore though he found it very difficult
to lay a bridge crofs fo broad, fo deep, and rapid a river,
yet he determined to attempt it, and if he failed, not
to paſs over at all. The method of his contrivance was this.
<< Having
to face p. 67.
Caesars Bridge cross the Rhine
}
KK
H
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P
興
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M
A Twe Peices of timber a foot & half square jond to each other at two foot distance. B Twe others opposit to them at forty foot distance inclining at the Top. C. The
Beams two foot square laid overem.D. The Peices of wood that joynted the Pillars E. The joyces for laying flooron.F. The Buttrices to support of main
Poſts against 4 strength of the stream & The Piles for defending & Bridge ag Ships and logs H. The forme of as ingle Pillar.I.The forme one
of the Cross beams K The Pillars joynd togather L.The little crops peices of wood that joyn'd'em two feet long. One of if same kind Single: The
Higllis or paranes that floord &: bridge. The Cross Planks for laying the hurdles on P The forme of one of if wooden Mallets or drivers.
•
ī
67
Book IV.
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
Rhine.
"Having joined two pieces of timber, a foot and a WAR IN
half fquare, by mortices that kept them at two foot di-
ftance from each other, he cut them to a convenient length The defcrip-
for that part of the river he defigned them for; then mak- tion of Ce-
ing them fharp at the end, caufed them to be let down far's bridge
into the water by engines, and driven into the bottom croſs the
with wooden mallets, not perpendicularly, but floping, in
compliance with the ftream: directly oppofite to theſe he
placed two other ſtakes, joined juſt after the fame manner,
and drove them into the ground forty foot diſtance from
the other at the bottom, caufing their tops to incline to-
wards the ſtream, as the others had declined from it.
Theſe double ſtakes, thus fix'd, he joined at top by a croſs
beam of two foot fquare, equal to the diftance between
them, and faſtened it at either end with pins, which prevented
the ſtakes from bending nearer one another, and made the
work of fo fecure a nature, that the fierceness of the ftream
encreafed the firmnefs of the bridge. Having obferved
the fame method quite over the river, he covered the croſs
beams with planks and hurdles. As a farther fecurity on
the lower fide of the bridge he drove down buttreſſes ob-
liquely into the water, which were fixt to the main pillars,
to prevent their giving way to the force of the current: he
likewife drove in other piles at a moderate diſtance above
the bridge, to ſtave off trunks of trees, and fuch veffels
as the enemy ſhould ſend down the river to deftroy the
work."
the Rhine,
18. From the time materials began to be brought for Cæfar croffes
the work, 'till the entire bridge was finiſhed, was no more
than ten days; when CESAR having left a ftrong garri-
fon on both fides of the river, marched into the confines of
the Sicambri: during this expedition embaſſadors came to
him from moſt places thereabouts, to defire a peace, and
court the alliance of the Romans, to whom he returned
civil anſwers, demanding hoftages for their fidelity.
CHAP.
VII.
WHEN the Sicambri were informed that the Ro-
mans were building a bridge, at the inftigation of the peo-
ple of Zutphen and Heffe, who had taken fhelter amongſt
them, they prepared for flight, and quitting their habita-
tions, conveyed themfelves with their effects into the
neighbouring woods.
F 2
19. CÆSAR,
68
Book IV.
C. J. CAESAR'S
WAR IN
19. CÆSAR, making a ſhort ſtay in their country, after
GAUL. he had burnt their towns and buildings, and cut down their
corn, marched to the territories of the Ubii, whom he had
promiſed to affift againſt the Suabians. So foon as he was
arrived, they informed him, that when the Suabians heard
he was building a bridge, having, according to their uſual
cuſtom, called a council, they diſpatched orders to all parts
of their nation, commanding the natives to forfake their
towns, to convey their wives, children, and effects into the
woods, and that all who were able to bear arms ſhould
meet at the general rendezvous in the midſt of their coun-
try, where they refolved to expect the Romans, and give
them battle; which CESAR underſtanding, after he had
accompliſhed thoſe deſigns which led him into Germany,
aw'd the natives, taken vengeance on the Sicambri, and
ſet the Ubii at liberty, having ſpent in all eighteen days be-
yond the Rhine, and performed enough as well for his own
honour, as the ſervice of the republick, returned again to
Gaul. Gaul, and broke down his bridge.
Cæfar re-
turns to
Cæfar's ex-
pedition into
England.
CHA P. VIII.
20. THOUGH the fummer was now almoft ſpent
(for the whole continent of Gaul lying northward, winter
begins there very early) yet CÆSAR refolved to make a
voyage to England, becauſe he had been informed, in all.
the wars of Gaul, the enemy had received confiderable
ſupplies from thence; and tho' the time of year would not
permit him to finiſh the war, yet he thought it would be
worth his while to make an expedition thither only to view
the iſland, to learn the nature of the inhabitants, to be
acquainted with their coafts, their ports, and creeks, which
the Gauls were almoſt entire ftrangers to; for they were
feldom vifited by any but merchants, who were unacquaint-
ed with all the country except the coafts, and thoſe parts.
which were oppofite to Gaul. Accordingly having fum-
moned a council of merchants from all parts, he could nei-
ther be informed of the extent of the ifland, what nations,
and how powerful the inhabitants were, how well they un-
derſtood the art of war, what cuftoms they were governed
by, nor how confiderable a navy their ports were capable
of receiving.
CHAP.
1
↓
}
Book IV. COMMENTARIES.
CHA P. IX.
69
embaffadors
21. FOR this reaſon he thought it convenient to ſend WAR IN
Out C. VOLUSENUS with a galley, to diſcover what he could, GAUL.
and immediately return with intelligence before he em-
barked himfelf: he in the mean time marched to Teroù-
enne, from whence lay the fhorteft cut to England; and
there he ordered ſeveral veffels from the neighbouring ports,
together with the navy he had built the year before for
his expedition againſt the Vannes, to attend him. Seve-
ral provinces in England, having intelligence of theſe pre- Some of the
parations, from merchants who frequented the coafts, fent English fend
embaffadors to CÆSAR, to let him know how willing they to Cæfar in
were to ſubmit to the Roman empire, and deliver hoftages Gaul.
for their fidelity: to thefe he gave a favourable audience;
and, having encouraged them to adhere to their agreement
by promiſes of confiderable rewards, fent them back again
to their own country; ordering COMIUS to go along with
them, whom he had formerly made king of Arras, after the
conqueft of that place, a man of confiderable intereſt in
England, and whoſe virtue and fidelity he thought he might
rely on. To him he gave inſtructions to viſit as many ſtates
as he could, and perſuade them to accept of an alliance
with the Romans, for CÆSAR himſelf would in a ſhort
time land in their country.
VOLUSENUS, in the mean time, having made what
diſcoveries he could of the country, for he durft not ven-
ture himſelf afhore with fo barbarous an enemy, after five
days cruifing, returned, and acquainted CESAR with what
he had feen.
22. CESAR ftay'd in theſe parts till his navy was fitted
out; during which time the Teroüennois fent embaffadors
to him, defiring he would be pleaſed to pardon their for-
mer tranfgreffions; that a favage and unpoliſhed people,
as they were, through ignorance of the cuftoms of the
Romans they had prefumed to make war upon them; but
for the future they would demonftrate how ready they were
to obey his commands. CÆSAR, being defirous to leave
no enemies behind him, to avoid entering into a new war
fo late in the feafon, and unwilling to neglect his Engliſh
expedition for fuch trifles, having first received a confi-
derable number of hoftages from them, took them into his
favour. Having prepared eighty tranſport-veffels, which
he thought fufficient to carry over his legions, he diftributed
F 3
his
7
70
C. J. CÆSA R'S Book IV.
WAR IN his gallies to the queftor, lieutenant-generals, and command-
GAUL, ers of the horſe; and eighteen tranfports which were wind-
Cæfar em-
barks for
England.
bound at a certain port about eight miles off, he appointed
for the fervice of his cavalry; then committed thofe forces
which he left behind, to the care of Q. TITURIUS SABI-
NUS, and L. AURUNCULEIUS COTTA, whom he ordered
to vifit the confines of Guelders, and reduce thoſe parts of
Teroüenne which had not yet fubmitted; to lieutenant-
general P. SULP. RUFUS he gave the charge of the port
where he embarked, with a ftrong garrifon to maintain it.
CHAP.
X.
23. THUS having diſpatched the neceffary orders, the
wind offering fair, he hoifted fail about one in the morn-
ing, commanding the cavalry to embark at that port where
the veffels lay ready to receive them, and follow him;
which orders were not executed fo readily as they ought
to have been; but he himself arrived on the Englifh coaft,
with his fquadron, by ten of the clock the fame morning,
where he faw all the cliffs covered by the enemy in arms.
• Such was the nature of the place, that the Engliſh might
caft their darts with great advantage from the impending
hills; wherefore not thinking it convenient to land there,
he caft anchor, and waited for the coming up of the reft
of his fleet till three in the afternoon. In the mean time
having called the lieutenants and tribunes to a council of
war, he acquainted them with the intelligence he had re-
ceived from VOLUSENUS, and gave them fuch orders as
he thought proper for the occafion, putting them in mind
how neceffaly it was in military difcipline, that every thing
fhould be put in execution to a moment at the general's
fignal, eſpecially in fea affairs, which were fubject to the
greatest inftability: then breaking up the council, whilft
the wind and tide ftood fair, he gave the fign for weighing
anchor, and having fail'd about eight miles farther, arrived
at a plain and open fhore.
24. The Engiifh being apprized of CAESAR's defign,
fent their cavalry and chariots before, which in war they
generally make ufe of, and followed after with the rest of
their army, in order to oppofe our landing: which we found
very difficult to cffcct for many reafons, becauſe our fhips
being tall, required a confiderable depth of water; and our
foldiers, whilft their hands were employed and loaden with
heavy armour, were at the fame time to encounter the waves
and
4
+
1
Book IV.
71
COMMENTARIES.
and the enemy, in a place they were not acquainted with: WAR IN
whereas the Engliſh, either ftanding upon dry land, or GAUL.
fallying a little way into the water in thoſe places they
knew to be fhallow, having the free ufe of all their limbs,
could boldly caft their darts, and ſpur their horſes forward,
who were inur'd to that kind of combat; which diſadvân-
tage ſo diſcouraged the Romans, who were ſtrangers to
this way of fighting, that they did not appear fo chearful,
and eager to engage the enemy, as in their former conflicts
on dry land.
of the tenth
25. Which CÆSAR perceiving, gave orders that the
gallies (a nimble fort of fhipping the enemy had never feen)
ſhould advance a little before the reſt of the navy, and row
along with their broad-fides towards the ſhore, that they
might more conveniently force the Engliſh to retire from
the water-fide, by their flings, engines, and arrows; which
did the Romans confiderable fervice; for the English being
ſurpriſed at the make of our gallies, the motion of our oars
and engines, began to give ground. But the ftandard- The ſtand-
bearer of the tenth legion, perceiving our men were un- ard bearer
willing to venture into the fea, having firft invoked the legion leaps
gods for fuccefs, cry'd out aloud, "My fellow-foldiers, into the wa-
unlefs you will forfake your eagle, and fuffer it to fall into ter, the rest
the hands of the enemy, advance; for my part, I am refolv- example.
ed to perform my duty to the common-wealth and my ge-
neral:" Having faid this, he immediately leaped over-board,
and advanced the eagle towards the English; whereupon
the foldiers encouraging each other, to prevent fo fignal a
difgrace, followed his example; which thofe in the next
fhips perceiving, did the like, and preffed forward to en-
gage the enemy.
follow his
the thore.
26. The conflict was fharply maintained on both fides, The Romans
though the Romans, not being able either to keep their at first beaten
ranks, obtain firm footing, or follow their particular back from
ftandards, leaping out of feveral fhips, and joining the
firſt enfign they met with, were in great confufion: but
the Engliſh, who were well acquainted with the fhallows,
when they faw us defcend in fmall numbers from our fhips,
fpurring their horfes into the water, fet upon our men in-
cumbered and unprepared to receive them; and fome fur-
rounded us with their numbers in one place, whilft others
flanked us where we lay moft open in another. Which
CESAR obferving, he caufed the long-boats and fmaller
veffels to be mann'd, and, where occafion required, fent
them to affift their fellows. Thus our foremoft ranks,
F 4
having
72
C. J. CÆSA R'S
{
Book IV,
WAR IN having gained dry footing, were followed by the reft of the
GAUL. army, and charging the enemy brifkly, put them to flight,
but were not able to purfue, or take the iſland that time,
becauſe we had no cavalry, which was the only thing want-
ing to complete CESAR's wonted ſucceſs.
fire a peace;
The Romans
gain the
Thore, and
rout the
27. The enemy being defeated, ſo foon as they had ef-
English.
The Engliſh Caped beyond the reach of danger, fent embaſſadors to
fend embaf- CÆSAR to defire a peace, promifing to deliver hoftages for
fadors to de- their entire fubmiffion: and with thefe embaffadors came
COMIUS of Arras, whom, as we obferved before, CÆSAR
had fent into Britain, where he was imprifoned fo foon as he
landed with the general's commands, but fet at liberty again
after the battle. They endeavoured to excufe what they had
done, by laying the blame upon the mob; and entreating
him to forgive a fault of ignorance, but not of malice.
CASAR at first reprimanded them for their breach of faith,
that after they had voluntarily fent embaſſadors to him into
Gaul, to defire a peace, and delivered hoftages of their
own accord, they ſhould without any reafon make war
upon him; he imputed it, he ſaid, to their ignorance, and
which they forgave them; then demanded hoftages for their future car-
riage, part whereof they delivered immediately, and with
the reft, who liv'd at ſome diſtance, they promiſed to re-
turn in a few days after. In the mean time, having dif
banded their men, and difperfed them into their feveral
countries, the princes from all parts came to deliver up them-
felves, and their eftates to CÆSAR's diſpoſal,
obtained on
delivery of
hoftages.
A violent
ftorm dif-
perfes the
fhips that
CHA P. XI.
28. A PEACE being thus concluded within four days
after CÆSAR's arrival in England, the eighteen tranſports
appointed for the cavalry put out to fea with a gentle gale;
brought the but when they were arrived near Britain within view of the
cavalry, and Roman camp, fo fudden a ſtorm arofe, that they were
the otherRo- all difperfed; fome returning to the port from whence they
on the coafts came, whilft others were thrown upon the lower end of
of Britain. the iſland towards the weft, where they endeavoured to
man veffels
caft anchor, but ſo much water came into them, that they
were obliged a fecond time to commit themſelves to the
mercy of the waves, and make the beſt of their way for
Gaul.
29. The fame night it being full moon, at which time the
tides are higheſt, an obſervation our mariners were ſtran-
gers to, the gallies, which, after the men were landed, had
been
Book IV.
73
COMMENTARIES.
been hauled up towards the fhore, were filled with the WAR IN
waves, and the veſſels of burthen which rode at anchor, GAUL,
were difabled by the tempeft, nor was it poffible for us to
afford them any fuccour: Thus feveral of our ſhips were
deſtroyed, and the reft having loft their cables, anchors,
and tackle, were rendered wholly uſelefs, which was a great
affliction to the whole army; for they had no other veffels to
carry them back again, and no materials to mend their own
with, and they knew very well they muſt of neceffity take
up their winter-quarters in Gaul, becauſe there was no
corn nor provifion to be had in England.
gliſh break
the peace.
30. The princes of England who were affembled to per-upon this
form their agreement with CÆSAR, underſtanding the Ro-news the Ea-
mans had neither cavalry, fhips, nor proviſion, and com-
puting the number of our men from the fmallneſs of our
camp, which was then narrower than uſual, becauſe CÆSAR
had made the legions leave their heavy baggage behind them,
reſolved to rebel, to intercept our convoys, and delay us 'till
winter; then having either defeated us, or prevented our
return, they hoped to deter others, by our example, from
invading England for the future.
31. Wherefore, having entered into a new confpiracy,
they began by degrees to quit our camp, and privately to
lift their disbanded troops again.
CHAP. XII.
BUT CÆSAR, though he knew nothing of their defign, Cæfar refits
yet fufpecting an alteration upon the lofs of his fhipping, his navy.
by their delay in the delivery of their hoftages, prepared for
all events; caufing provifions to be brought into his camp
every day from the country round about, and giving or-
der, that thoſe ſhips which had received the leaft damage
by the tempeft, fhould be refitted and mended with the
beaks and timber of thofe that had been ſhattered to pieces;
he fent likewiſe to Gaul for fuch materials as he had occafion
for, which were fo well applied by the induſtry of his fol-
diers, that he only loft twelve fhips, and made the reſt fit
for fervice again.
32. In the mean time the feventh legion, whoſe turn it
was, went out to forage. As part were employed in the
field, and the reft in carrying corn between them and the
army, not in the leaſt ſuſpecting any acts of hoftility, the
outguards gave CÆSAR notice, that they obferved a greater
duft than uſual that way which the legions went: where-
upon,
74
Book IV.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN upon, fufpecting the Engliſh had revolted, as he after-
GAUL. wards found they had, taking along with him the co-
horts that were placed for an advanced guard, he com-
manded two others to fupply their room; all the reft to
repair to their arms, and follow him as faſt as they could.
The English He had not marched many paces from his camp, before
fet upon the he faw his foragers over-charged by the enemy, driven into
Roman fo- a fmall compaſs, and expofed to the English darts on every
ragers.
The English
manner of
fighting in
their cha-
fiats.
Cæfar comes
fide for the enemy, knowing there was only one field
left which had not been foraged, concluded we muſt of ne-
ceffity come thither; wherefore having hid themfelves the
night before in the woods there, they ftaid to expect us;
and ſetting upon our men, whilft they were bufy in reap-
ing, and had laid afide their arms, killed fome of them,
put the reft in diſorder, and then ſurrounded them with
their horfe and chariots.
33. The Engliſh method of fighting with chariots is this:
"In the firft place, they drive up and down to all parts
of the enemy's army, diftributing their darts among them
to the best advantage; and frequently put the foremoſt ranks
in diſorder, even with the noiſe of their wheels and horſes;
then forcing their way into the midft of the cavalry, for-
fake their chariots and fight on foot, performing at the
fame inſtant, the part of nimble horſemen, and that of
ftable foot: the charioteers in the mean while, driving a
little way out of the battle, place themſelves fo conveni-
ently, that if their party are too much oppreffed by the
enemy, they may eafily retreat to them. So expert are
they at this exercife by perpetual practiſe, that they can
ſtay their horfes upon a full ſtretch, even in the midſt of a
deſcent, ſtop ſhort and turn, run upon the pole, reſt on
the harness, and throw themfelves with great dexterity in-
to their chariots."
34. The Romans being difordered by this new kind of
to the aflift- fight, CÆSAR came very opportunely to their aid; for
ance of his upon his arrival the Engliſh made a ſtand, and our men
foragers. began to forget their fears; however, not thinking it con-
venient to engage the enemy at that time, he maintained
his ground for a while, then retreated with the legions to
his camp; and the enemy likewife, whilft we were other-
wife employed, thought fit to retire. The continual rains
and tempefts, which followed after, feveral days fuccef-
fively, kept the Romans in their camp, and the Engliſh
from fighting.
CHAP.
Book IV. COMMENTARIES.
75
CHAP.
XIII.
BUT the enemy were not idle in the mean while, for WAR IN
they diſpatched couriers to all parts of the iſland, to inform GAUL.
the people how ſmall an army the Romans had, how con-
fiderable a booty they might obtain, and how glorious an
opportunity offered to make themfelves free for ever, if
they would but force the Roman camp; by which means
having immediately raiſed great numbers of horfe and foot,
they came to attack our trenches.
a fecond bat-
Now though CÆSAR forefaw that the enemy, in caſe
The Englif
they were routed, would make their eſcape by flight; yet come to at-
having got thirty horfe, part of COMIUS's retinue, he drew tack the Ro-
his legions up in order of battle before the camp; and hav- man camp;
ing engaged the Engliſh, who were not able to ſuſtain tle, are rout
the fury of our foldiers, he immediately put them to flight, ed.
purſued till his foldiers were out of breath, and having made
a confiderable flaughter, burnt their towns and buildings
for many miles round, and then returned to his camp.
is granted.
36. The fame day he received embaſſadors from the They fue a-
enemy, to defire a peace. Whereupon he commanded gain for
them to fend him into Gaul double the number of hoftages peace, which
he formerly required; and becauſe the autumnal equinox
approached, not thinking it fafe to take a winter voyage
in his crazy veifels, ſo foon as the wind ſtood fair, which Cæfar re-
was about midnight, he weigh'd anchor, and with all his turns to
fleet arrived ſafe at the port from whence he had embark- Gaul,
ed, except two tranfports, which could not keep up with
the reft, and were driven into a haven fomething lower in
the country.
37. In theſe two veffels were about 300 foldiers, who,
fo foon as they landed, endeavoured to reach their
camp; but the Terouennois, whom CASAR had left in a
peaceable condition before he failed for England, fpurr'd on
by the hopes of plunder, at first furrounded our men in
fmall numbers, and commanded them, on pain of death, to
deliver their arms; but the Romans cafting themſelves
into an orb, inftead of furrendering, bravely maintain-
ed their ground; whereupon about 6000 of the ene-
my, hearing the noife, came in to the affiftance of their
country-men. CESAR, having intelligence of this, de-
tached all the cavalry in his army to their affiftance. In
the mean time, the Romans manfully fuftained the ene-
my's charge, fought with unequal numbers four hours
together,
76
Book IV. .
C. J. CÆSAR'S, &c.
WAR IN together, and having received but few wounds themſelves,
GAUL. had made a confiderable flaughter amongſt the affailants:
Labienus
wafte.
but the moment our horſe appeared in view, the Teroüen-
nois threw down their arms, and betook themſelves to flight,
in which a confiderable number were killed.
CHAP.
XIV.
38. THE next day CESAR difpatched lieutenant T.
marches a- LABIENUS, with the legions he brought back from Eng-
gainſt the
Teroüen- land, againſt the rebels, who being deprived by the drought
nois; lays of the benefit of thoſe marfhes, where they had the year
their country before abfconded, almoſt all of them fell under his power.
But the lieutenants Q. TITURIUS and L. COTTA, who
had been fent into the country of Guelders, returned with-
out doing any other execution but cutting up their corn,
laying their fields wafte, and burning their towns; for the
enemy had fecured their perfons in the woods. CESAR
took up his quarters this winter in Belgium, where he re-
ceived hoftages only from two of the provinces in Eng-
land, the reſt neglecting their promiſe. The Roman fenate,
informed of theſe actions by CESAR's letters, decreed a
general thankſgiving for twenty days fucceffively.
AY
C. J. CÆ.
C. J. CÆSAR's
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The FIFTH BOOK.
CÆSAR builds a confiderable navy; he goes to Illyri-
cum; his fecond expedition into England; the
Gauls revolt; SABINUS and COTTA defeated;
CICERO besieged, but relieved.
D
CHAP.
I.
URING the confulate of L. DOMITIUS and AP. WAR IN
CLAUDIUS, CÆSAR leaving his winter-quarters to go GAUL.
into Italy, according to his ufual cuftom, gave orders to
orders for
his lieutenants, to whom he had committed the charge of his Cæfar gives
legions, that they ſhould build as many ſhips againſt his return building a
as they could, and refit the ald veffels; commanding them to navy.
make the decks fomewhat lower than ufual in the Mediterra-
nean, that the foldiers might embark or get on ſhore with
greater eaſe; becauſe he knew the ebbing of the tide in the
Britiſh feas fometimes left but a very inconfiderable depth of
water near the land. That there might be convenience
for his horſes, he ordered they fhould build them broader
than ordinary, and contrive them all for oars, to which the
lowneſs of the decks contributed. He fent for fuch mate-
rials as were neceffary to equip them, from Spain; and
having held the diet of Lombardy, went immediately to
Illyricum,
78
C. J. CÆSAR'S
He goes to
Illyricum;
the Piruftæ
fubmit.
Book V.
WAR IN Illyricum, becauſe he had intelligence that the Pirufta
GAUL. had made feveral inroads into the frontiers. So foon as he.
arrived there, he began to levy an army, and appointed
the foldiers a general rendezvous; which the Piruſtæ be-
ing informed of, immediately fent embaffadors to affure
him, what had been done was contrary to the publick con-
fent, and that they were ready to make fuch fatisfaction for
the injuries they had committed, as he fhould require.
CASAR having given them audience, demanded hoſtages
to be delivered by a certain day, or war and ruin fhould
enfue: they obeyed his commands; whereupon he ap-
pointed arbitrators to eſtimate the damages the towns had
received, and determine what compenfation fhould be made
for them..
Cæfar
marches into
the country
2. This affair being diſpatched, and treaties figned, he
returned again to Lombardy, and from thence to his army:
he made a review of all their quarters, and, notwithſtanding
the fcarcity of materials, found the induftry of his foldiers.
had already built about fix hundred ſuch ſhips as he had given
commiſſion for, and twenty-eight gallics, which were
ready to launch within a few days. Having applauded the
application of his foldiers and their fupervifors, he gave
them fuch orders as he thought convenient, and conmand-
ed they ſhould all meet him at Boloign; from whence, he
thought, lay the fhorteft cut to England, it being but about
thirty miles there from land to land.
a
a Portius Itius, according to H. LLWYD and ORTELIUS is Calais; but
SCALIGER and SANSON prove it to be Boloign, with whom agree CLUVER,
BUNO, SOMNER, BAXTER, &c.
CHA P. II.
HE left as many foldiers as he thought neceffary for
this purpofe; then took his march with four legions and
of Treves, to 800 horfe into the country of Treves, becauſe they had
prevent a re- neither appeared at the general convocation of the ftates,
nor fubmitted to the common-wealth, and were re-
ported to follicit affiftance from the Germans beyond the
Rhine.
Lellion.
and Indutio-
3. This country is very powerful in infantry; but the
beft ftored with cavalry of any in Gaul; and, as we
Cingetcrix have already fhewn, joins to the river Rhine. It hap-
pened that INDUTIOMARUS and CINGETORIX were
difputing about this time for the fuperiority; the latter be-
ing informed of CASAR's approach, came over to him,
promiſing, that neither he nor any of his party would ever
marus.
be
Book V.
79
COMMENTARIES.
"
GAUL
be deficient in the performance of their duty or alliance WAR IN
with the people of Rome; and laid before him the preſent
proceedings of his country-men.
INDUTIOMARUS, on the other hand, began to levy
what numbers of horfe and foot he could; and having
fecur'd fuch perfons, whofe age made them incapable
of bearing arms, in the large foreft of Arden (which, be-
ginning at the river Rhine, extends through the midst of
the country of Treves, as far as the borders of Rheims)
refolved to engage in a war: but finding himſelf deferted
by ſeveral of the nobility, who out of affection to CIN-
GETORIX, or fear of our approaching army, had come
over to CÆSAR (each to follicit his own pardon, fince
they were not able to do it for their country) apprehending
he fhould fhortly be forfaken by all, fent an embaffage to
CÆSAR, to acquaint him, "That he had been one of the Indutioma-
foremoſt to pay his fubmiffion, but that he thought himſelf rus's politick
obliged to ſtay at home, left the giddy mob, in the ab- embally.
fence of the nobility, fhould have revolted from their
duty; but the whole country was now at his command;
and, if CÆSAR pleafed, he would wait upon him at his
camp, to lay his own and country's fortune at his feet.”
4. Though CESAR knew the occafion of this fpeech, and
what reaſons had induced him to change his former refo-
lution; yet, that he might not be obliged to ſpend the
whole fummer in Treves, after he had prepared all things
for his Engliſh expedition, he commanded INDUTIO-
MARUS to bring 200 hoftages along with him; which he
performed, bringing his own fon and neareft relations,
who had been demanded, amongst the number where-
upon CÆSAR encouraged him to continue firm in his
duty to the Romans; not forgetting to fend for all the
noblemen of Treves, and reconcile them one after ano-
ther to CINGETORIX; which he did as well on the ac-
count of his deferts, as for his own fake, becauſe he knew
the man, who had given fuch fignal proofs of his affection,
would employ his intereft at home to CÆSAR's advan-
tage. INDUTIOMARUS was not a little diſturbed to find
his authority thus diminiſhed among his countrymen, and
if he was our enemy before, this occafion increafed his
ancient malice.
Cæfar
J
5. Having fettled affairs in Treves, he marched his legi- marches to
ons to Boloign, where he was informed, that the forty fhips where he had
Boloign,
which had been built amongſt the Melde, were driven ordered all
back again by a form to the port from whence they fet the princes of
Gaul to meet
out; him.
80
Book V.
C. J. CESAR'S
GAUL.
WAR IN Out; but all the reft he found ready for failing, well rigg'd
and fitted out. Thither likewife came all the cavalry of
Gaul to meet him, about 4000, with the noblemen of every
province; of theſe he defigned to leave but few behind him,
whofe fidelity he could depend upon; and take the reſt as
hoftages along with him to England, apprehending fome
commotions in Gaul during his abfence.
6. Amongſt theſe was DUMNORIX of Autun, of whom
we have formerly fpoken; him of all mankind he refolved
to carry, becauſe he knew his fickle, proud, and aſpiring
temper, which joined with the authority he had amongſt
his country-men, might have proved of fatal confequence;
befides, DUMNORIX had openly declared in a publick
council, that CESAR had conferred upon him the govern-
ment of Autun, which tho' the Autunnois ill brooked, yet
they neither durft remonftrate against, nor by an em-
baffy to CESAR deprecate. He was the firft that defired
leave to ſtay at home, pretending that not being uſed
to failing, he was afraid of the fea, and that he had a re-
ligious vow to perform, which would detain him: but
Dumnorix when he found his requeſt abfolutely denied, having no
perfuades the hopes of obtaining his demands, he began to perfuade each
noblemen of nobleman of Gaul apart, not to leave the continent; in-
go with Ca- ftilling jealouffes into them, by infinuating, that CÆSAR,
far into Bri- no doubt, had fome deep defign in carrying all the no-
Gaul not to
tain.
Dumnorix
deferts.
bility of Gaul beyond fea with him; that becauſe he durft
not put them to death in the view of their country-men, he
would do it when he had tranfported them to England. So
far did his artifice prevail, that he perfuaded them to enter
into a mutual alliance, and obliged themfelves by oath to
confult and act by the general confent, in all things which
concerned the good of their country.
7. CESAR was informed of this confpiracy from feveral
hands, yet having a particular refpect for the country of
Autun, he refolved to try all methods to reftrain and
frighten DUMNORIX from proceeding in his deſigns; but
finding his madness continued, he thought it high time to
provide for the fafety of his own perfon, and the repub-
lick; wherefore having ftaid about five and twenty days
in the fame place, for fo long did the north-weft wind
put a stop to his voyage, the wind coming fair about, he
commanded his horfe and foot to embark: but whilft all
people were bufy in performing theſe orders, DUM-
NORIX, without CESAR's knowledge or confent, left the
camp with the Autun cavalry, and took his march home-
ward;
3
Book V.
81
COMMENTARIES.
ward; which CESAR being informed of, immediately put WAR IN
a ſtop to his voyage: laying afide all other affairs, he de- GAUL.
tached a ftrong party of horfe to purfue and bring him
back again, with orders to kill DUMNORIX, if he offered
to make the leaft oppofition to his commands; for he
had reaſon to think the man who durft diſobey his orders
when prefent, would not be very loyal in his abfence. The
horfe having overtaken him, commanded him to return,
which he refuſed, endeavouring to defend himſelf by force of
arms; and often implored the affiftance of his country-men,
crying out that he was a free-man, born in a free country: Dumnorix's
But the Romans performed their orders, furrounded and chitinacy;
put him to the fword, whereupon all his cavalry returned he is kill'd,
to CESAR.
CHA P. III.
8. THIS affair determined, leaving LABIENUS in Cæfar fets
Gaul with three legions and 2000 horfe, to fecure the fail for Eng-
port, to provide corn, and fend him intelligence from time land.
to time how affairs went in the continent, that he might
know how to accommodate his counfels to the particular
time and circumftance; with five legions, and the fame
number of horſe he had left with LABIENUS, about fun-
ſet CÆSAR hoifted fail for England, with a gentle fouth-
wind. About mid-night he was becalmed, and being
driven by the tide 'till morning, found the ifland on his
left; then following the return of the tide, he row'd 'till·
he came to the landing-place, which he found fo conve-
nient the year before; and upon this occafion the foldiers
deferved applaufe, who labouring without intermiffion at
the oar, made their heavy tranfports and tenders keep pace
with the gallies. About noon we arrived with our whole
fleet on the coafts, where no enemy was to be ſeen,
though, as CÆSAR afterwards underſtood from the pri-
foners, the iſlanders had been there in great multitudes :
but being frighted to behold fo numerous a navy (which,
together with the fhips of that year's building, and private
veſſels which feveral perfons had provided for their own ufe,
amounted to above 800) they had left the fhore, and hid
themſelves in the mountains.
The Romans
9. CAESAR, having landed his army, and chofen a conve-
nient place to encampia,enquired of fome whom he had taken.
prifoners, where the enemy was lodged. And between three
and four in the morning, having left ten cohorts and 300
G
huift,
82
Book V.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
GAUL.
WAR IN horſe, under the command of Q. ATRIUS, to ſecure the
navy, he marched towards the Engliſh; being the leſs un-
eafy for his feet, as he had left them at anchor on a ſmooth
and open thore. He had not marched twelve miles, be-
fore he faw the enemy, who having pofted their horſe and
chariots upon an advantageous eminence by the banks of
the river, gave us battle, and endeavoured to oppoſe our
paffage, but were repulfed by our cavalry, and obliged to
They rout
the English, retire to the woods; where they were poffeffed of a poſt
extremely well fortified both by art and nature, which had
been built in all probability during the times of their civil
wars; all the paffages to it being blocked up by heaps of
trees, cut down for that purpofe. They never ventured
out of this place but in fmall parties, and always hindered
the Romans from entring it but the foldiers of the ſe-
venth legion having caft themſelves into a Teftudo, and
thrown up a mount againſt their works, took the place,
and drove them from the woods, without receiving many
wounds: CÆSAR however with-held them from the purſuit,
as he was unacquainted with the country, and, the day
being far ſpent, he thought it adviſeable to beſtow the reſt
of it in fortifying his camp.
A form
which that
ters the Ro-
man fleet.
CHA P. IV.
10. THE next morning early, CÆSAR, having divided
his army into three battalions, fent both his horfe and foot
to purſue the enemy: they had not travelled far before
they came within fight of the Engliſh rear; at which in-
ftant a party of horſe arrived from QUINTUS ATRIUS, to
acquaint CÆSAR, that the night before there had been a
dreadful ftorm, which fhattered almoſt all the navy, and
drove the fhips on fhore, having loft their anchors and
cables; nor was it in the power of the mariners and pilots
to prevent their running foul of one another.
11. Upon this intelligence, CESAR recalling his legions
and cavalry from their intended journey, returned to his
fleet, where he was an eye-witnefs of the misfortunes the
couriers and packets had brought him an account of; for
forty fhips were entirely loft, and he faw the reft could
Cafar refits not be refitted without infinite trouble: wherefore having
his navy, and chofen fome carpenters from amongst the legions, and
writ for others to Gaul, he fent LABIENUS orders to
to dry land. build as many fhips as he could with thoſe legions he had
there. And though he found it would be a very trouble--
caufes it to
be haul'd up
fome
1
Book V.
83
COMMENTARIES.
1
fome
ome bufinefs, yet he thought it moft convenient to have WAR 18
the fleet haul'd up to land, and incloſed within the forti- GAUL.
fications of his camp. For this purpoſe, the foldiers
laboured ten days and nights without intermiffion. At
length having effected it, the fhirping drawn to fhore, and
the camp very ſtrongly fortify'd, leaving the fame guard as
formerly, he returned to the place where he had defifted
from purſuing the enemy.
CHAP. V.
HERE he found far greater numbers of the English
aſſembled, than he left when he went to vifit the fleet. By
general conſent the whole management of this war was
committed to the care of CASSIVELLAUNUS, whofe ter- Caffivellau-
ritories were divided by the river Thames from the fea- nus made ge-
coafts, and extended fourfcore miles into the ifland: for neraliffimo of
the Engliſh.
though he had formerly made war on the reſt of his coun-.
try-men, yet upon our arrival they all united, and pitched
upon him as the fitteſt perſon to direct them at fo impor-
tant a conjuncture.
and the cuf
12. "The inland parts of England are inhabited by thoſe Deſcription
that call themſelves natives of the country; but the fea- of England,
coafts by the Belgic Gauls, who, coming over either for toms of the
plunder or fettlements, when they had ended their wars, Engliſh.
cultivated the earth they were poffcffed of, and for
the generality retained the names or the cities from whence
they came. The country is well peopled, and has plenty
of buildings, much after the fafhion of thoſe in Gaul.
They have infinite ftore of cattle, and for money they uſe
brafs and iron rings, which they barter with by weight.
The midland countries produce fome tin; and thoſe nearer
the fea, iron, though not much of the latter; but their brafs
is imported. They have all kinds of wood to be met with
in Gaul, except the fig and beach-tree: they are not al-
lowed to eat either hare, hen, or goofe; yet they breed
all theſe for their fancy and diverfion. The climate is more.
temperate than in Gaul, and the frofts lefs violent.
13. The inland is triangular, one fide.fituate over-againſt
Gaul, at the caft corner of which, where the county of
Kent lies, is the ufual landing-place from Gaul; the other
fide looks towards the fouth; and from one end to the other
reaches about 500 miles; the weft angle lies towards Spain
and Ireland, an iſland generally eſteemed to be half as large
as the other, and about the fame diftance from England as
G 2
England
84 for!
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book V..
WAR IN England is from Gaul; in the middle between theſe two
GAUL. lies the Ifle of Man, befides feveral other fmaller iflands
Romans
whilft on
their march,
but are re-
return again.
fcattered up and down, of which fome affirm, that for
thirty days fucceffively in winter they are deprived of light :
but we received no fuch information during our ſtay, only
obferved from our way of meaſuring time by the running of
water in our hour-pots, that the nights were ſhorter than
in Gaul: The length of this fide, according to their com-
putation, is about 700 miles. The third fide lies north-
ward, and fronts the open fea, except in one angle, which
points towards Germany; and the extent of this is gene-
rally computed to be 800 miles; fo that the circumference
of the whole ifland is 20co miles.
14. The moſt civiliz'd people among them are the Kent-
ifh men, whofe country lies altogether upon the ſea-
coafts; and whofe cuftoms are much the fame with thoſe of
the Gauls. The inland people feldom trouble themſelves
with agriculture, living on milk and fleſh-meat, and are
clad with fkins; but all of them paint themſelves blue with
woad, that they may look the more dreadful to their ene-
mies in battle. The hair of their heads they wear very long,
but ſhave all the reſt of their bodies, except the upper
lip. Ten or a dozen have one wife in common amongſt
them, eſpecially if they are brothers, and the parents often
lie with their own iffue; but he who firſt married the wo-
man, whilſt ſhe' was a maid, fathers all the children.”
CHAP. VI.
15. THE enemy's horfe and chariots had a fharp fkir-
The Engliſh
attack the mifh with our men during their march; but the Romans
repulfing them from all fides, drove them into the woods,
and having flain a great many, purſued the reſt ſo far,
that they loft fome of their own party. Not long after, the
pulfed. They English returning, whilft the Romans, who little expected
them, were fortifying their camp, made a fudden fally out
of the woods, and fell upon our advanced guard; where-
upon CESAR detached two corts, the first of two
legions, to their affiftance. Thefe cohorts, were drawn up
very near each other; but the enemy, whilft our men
were furprized with their new way of fighting, boldly
broke through the midft of them, and returned again with-
out receiving any loſs; in which action Q. LABERIUS DU-
anlar a- RUS was killed; but at laſt fome freſh cohorts coming up
to our relief, the Engliſh were repulfed.
gain re-
pulfed.
"This
Book V.
85™*
COMMENTARIES.
The advan-
mans in their
16. "This engagement happening in the view of the WAR IN
whole army, every one perceived that the legionary foldiers GAUL.
were not a fit match for ſuch an enemy, becauſe the weight
of their armour would not permit them to purſue, nor durſt
tages the
they go too far from their colours; neither could the ca- English had
valry encounter them, becauſe the Engliſh often pretended over the Ro-
a retreat, and having drawn them from the legions, would way of fight-
forfake their chariots, and fight on foot, at a great advantage :ing.
and when they were mounted, they were equally fatal to
our horſe, whether we purſued or fled. Another diſad-
vantage was, that the enemy never fought in clofe battali
ons, but in ſmall parties, at a great diſtance from one ano-
ther, each of them having their particular poſt allotted,
from whence they received fupplies, and the weary were
relieved by the freſh."
CHAP.
VII.
17. THE day after the enemy lodg'd themſelves in the
The English
hills, at a confiderable diftance from our camp, but fel-
attack the
dom appear'd, not being fo eager at fkirmiſhing with our Roman fo
cavalry as before; but about noon, when CASAR had de- ragers.
tach'd three legions and all the cavalry under the com-
mand of C. TREBONIUS to forage, on a fudden they af-
faulted our foragers from all fides, and even came up with
the legions and their ſtandards; but the Romans returning
their charge very briſkly, beat them back again, nor did our but are rout-
cavalry defift from the purſuit 'till they had entirely routed ed with con-
them, depending on the legions, who followed clofe af- fiderablelofs,
ter, to fuftain them in cafe of neceffity. They put a great
many of the enemy to the fword, and purſued the rett fo
cloſe, that they neither allowed them time to rally, to
make a ſtand, or forfake their chariots. Upon this rout
the auxiliary troops that had come from all parts, deferted
them, nor were they ever able after this to make any con-
fiderable head against us.
18. CÆSAR, being apprized of their intention, march'd Cæfar fords
his army into the confines of CASSIVELLAUNUS, to- the Thames.
wards the Thames, which river is only, fordable in one
place, and that with great difficulty. So foon as he came
thither, he faw the enemy's forces drawn up in a confider-
able body on the oppofite bank, which was fortified with
fharp ftakes; and they had driven likewife many piles of
the fame kind into the bottom of the river, whoſe tops were
covered by the water. CASAR, having intelligence of
G3
this
86
Book V.
C. J. CÆSA R’S
WAR IN this from the prifoners and deferters, fent his cavalry be-
GAUL. fore, commanding the legions to follow clofe after them;
and with fuch expedition did they perform his orders,
Caffivellau- though the water took them up to the neck, that the ene-
nus again to my, not being able to ſuſtain their aflault, forfook the
flight; banks and fled,
And puts
who difbands
part of his
army, and
retires to the
woods.
of Effex and
CHAP. VIII.
19. THUS CASSIVELLAUNUs, having loft all hopes
of fuccefs by a battle, difbanded the greateſt part of his for-
ces, and retaining only about 4000 chariots, obferved our
motions from time to time, keeping himſelf at fome di-
ftance in the woods, or fuch places where the Romans could
have no accefs; from thofe countries to which he knew we
were to march he carried off the cattle and natives before-
hand; and whenever our cavalry ventured a little too far
to lay the fields wafte, being well acquainted with all
the roads and by-ways, he would detach a party of his
chariots out of the woods to attackus; nor could our horſe
engage them without great danger, which prevented our
making ſuch excurfions as we would have done other wife,
and obliged CASAR not to permit his hoife to go further to
burn and defroy, then the legions were able to attend them.
20. In the mean time the Trinobantes, who poflefs one
The people of the moſt confiderable provinces in the iſland, fent em-
Middlefex. bafiadors to CASAR, promifing that they would ſubmit to
him, and accept his commands, defiring that he would
be pleaſed to defend MANDUBRATIUS from the oppreffion
of CASSIVELLAUNUS, and fend him to them for their
king and governor: this MANDUBRATIUS was the fon
of IMANUENTIUS, who formerly poffeffing that king-
dom, was flain by CASSIVELLAUNUS; and to avoid his
father's fate, had fled to CÆSAR, in Gaul for protection.
CÆSAR reſtored MANDUBRATIUS to them, but demand-
ed of them forty hoftages, and corn for his army; which
conditions they readily performed.
►
21. The Trinobantes thus protected from their enemies,
and fecured by his orders from being plundered by his fol-
diers, the Cenimagni, Segontiaci, Ancalites, Bibroci,
b
bCAMDEN fays the Cenimagni were the fame with the Iceni, whofe pro-
vince contained Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and Huntingdonshire. Se-
gontiaci, he thinks, were originally the Belge, and places them in the hundred
of Holfhot in Hamfhire; the Bibroci he calls thofe that inhabit the hundred
of Bray in Berkſhire; the Ancalites that of Henley in Oxfordſhire; and the
Caffi, the people of Buckinghamſhire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire, where
Hume is fill preſerved in the hundred of Caſhow,
and
Book V.
COMMENTARIES.
87
菁
​}
What the
and Caffi, fubmitted themſelves likewife by their embaffa- WAR IN
dors to CESAR. From theſe he had intelligence that GAUL.
CASSIVELLAUNUS's town, which was fortified with
woods and marfhes, and ftored with plenty of men and
cattle, was but a fmall diftance from his camp; for the
Engliſh call a thick wood, furrounded with a ditch, and
fortified with a rampier, a town, which they retire to, English call-
when they are apprehenfive of incurfions from their neigh-ed a town.
bours. Thither he marched with his legions, and found
the place well fecured both by art and nature; however he
endeavoured to ſtormit in two ſeveral places, and the enemy
being no longer able to fuftain the fury of the affault, fled
out at another part of the wood. Here we found vaft The Engliſh
quantities of cattle, and many of the English, who en-fortification
deavoured to make their eſcape, being overtaken, loft taken.
their lives.
Kent attack
22. CASSIVELLAUNUS in the mean time fent embaffa- The four
dors to Kent, which, as we have already taken notice, lies kings of
toward the fea-coaft, and was governed by four kings, the Roman
CINGETORIX, CARNILIUS, TAXIMAGULUS, and camp, but
SEGONAX ; whom he commanded to attack our camp,
where the navy was laid up, with all the forces they could.
raife: but fo foon as they arrived there, our men made a
fally, killed feveral of them, took LUGOTORIX, one
of their chief commanders, prifoner, and returned fafe
again into their trenches. CASSIVELLAUNUS, upon are repulfed
the news of this defeat, reflecting on the many loffes he with lofs.
had received, that his country was laid wafte, but, above Caffivellau-
all, that feveral provinces had already forfaken the gene-ders, and
ral alliance, fent embaffadors to treat of a furrender, who Cæfar impo-
were introduced by COMIUS of Arras. CESAR defigning fes a yearly
to quarter that winter inGaul, that he might prevent fudden the English.
infurrections there, and becauſe the fummer was already far
ſpent, and the remainder of it might eaſily be ſpun out with.
lays, demanded hoftages, and appointed a yearly tribute
which the Engliſh ſhould pay to the people of Rome; not
forgetting ſtrictly to prohibit CASSIVELLAUNUS from in-
juring MANDUBRATIUS, or the Trinobantes.
23. Having received the hoftages, he marched his army
back again to the fea-fhore, where he found his fleet refit-
ted, and caufed it to be launched; but confidering the
number of the captives was fo great, and that fome of
our fhips had periſhed in the ftorm, he refolved to tranf-
port his army at two voyages; whereby it fo fell out,
that not one veffel was loft which carried over the
G 4
foldiers,
nus furren-
tribute on
88
Book V.
C. J. CESAR'S
}
WAR
IN foldiers, either this, or the foregoing year, tho' the fhips
SAUL. were fo numerous, and the voyages fo frequent.
But very few of thoſe which were fent back again from
Gaul, after they had landed the foldiers that were firſt
carried over, nor of the fixty fhips which LABIENUS
had taken care to build, arrived fafe in England; the reſt
being driven back again by contrary winds: wherefore
CASAR, having long expected them in vain, left the win-
ter fhould prevent his voyage, the equinox being near at
hand, difpofed his foldiers clofer than he defigned, and tak-
Cæfar arrives ing the opportunity of an extraordinary calm, fet fail a-
fafe with the bout ten o'clock at night, and arrived fafe with his whole
my in Gaul, fleet at the continent by break of day.
reſt of hisar-
CHA P. IX.
C
;
24. HAVING laid up his fleet in the docks, and held
an affembly of the Gauls at Amiens, becaufe the fum-
mer's drought had made a fcarcity of corn that year, he
was obliged to quarter his legions otherwife than he had
done in former winters, and to diftribute them into feveral
countries; one legion, under the command of lieutenant
C. FABIUS, he ſent to Teroüenne; another under Q; CI-
CERO to Hainault; a third under L. ROSCIUS to
d Seez
a fourth under TITUS LABIENUS, who had orders to
quarter in Rheims on the borders of Treves; three others
he quartered in Belgium, under the command of M. CRAS-
sus the queftor, LU. MANUTIUS PLANCUS, and CAI-
US TREBONIUS the lieutenants; the legion which he
had laft raiſed beyond the Po, with five cohorts, he fent
into the country of Treves, which is governed by AM-
BIORIX and CATIVUL CUS, the greateft part of whoſe
territories lie between the Mofe and the Rhine; thefe he
committed to the charge of the licutenants Q. TITURIUS
SABINUS and L. ARUNCULEIUS COTTA. By this diftri-
bution of his legions, CESAR thought he might eafily
redress the want of provifions; yet all the legions lay
within the compafs of one hundred miles, except thofe
whom he had fent under the command of L. ROSCIUS, in-
Samarobrina, SCALIGER calls Amiens, others Cambray, or St. Quintin;
but SANSON fays pofitively 'tis the town of Amiçns, and that it ſhould be read
Samarobriva, for Briva or Briga is an old Celtick word for a bridge; fo Sa-
marobriva is a bridge over the Samara or Soam, where Amiens now ftands.
d Effui, fays BAUDRAND, are inhabitants of Normandy, and their capital the
town now called Scez; but vossius think this a corruption of the text, and
that it should have been dui, the people of Autun, SANSON thinks Effui
and Seflui of Sefluvii the fame people.
to
}
-
Book V.
89
COMMENTARIES.
to a moft quiet and peaceable country; and he reſolved to WAR IN
ftay himſelf in Gaul, 'till the whole army had poffeffed GAUL.
themſelves of, and fortified their winter-quarters.
Tafgetius
25. In the country of Chartres lived TASGETIUS, a man murdered by
of the beſt family there, whofe anceſtors had formerly been his fubjects
of Chartres
kings of the place; and CÆSAR, to reward that con-
ftant virtue and affection which he had given proofs of in
all the wars, had reſtored him to the dignity of his fore-
fathers but in the third year of his reign, his enemies, by
the affiftance of feveral of his fubjects, who were in the
conſpiracy, publickly murdered him. CÆSAR had intelli-
gence of this, and being apprehenfive that fince fo many
were concerned in the treafon, the country might revolt,
he commanded L. PLANCUS to march immediately with
his legion out of Belgium into Chartres, to apprehend all
fuch as had been concerned in the murder of TASGETIUS,
and fend them priſoners to him : in the mean time he had
advice from all the queftors and lieutenants, to whofe charge
he had committed the legions, that they had fortified their
winter-quarters.
of Liege re-
26. OUR legions had not been ſettled above fifteen days The people
before AMBIORIX and CATIVULCUS, at the inftiga- bel, and af-
tion of INDUTIOMĀRUS of Treves, made a fudden in- fault the Ro-
furrection, ſtirring up the people to rebel, after they had man camp;
carried SABINUS and COTTA corn into their quarters,
which were in their confines. Having furprized the fol-
diers who were gone to fetch in wood, they came in a
ſtrong body to ſtorm our camp; but the Romans imme-
diately repaired to their arms, and afcended the rampart,
whilſt the Spaniſh cavalry iffüing out from one fide, got the
better of their horfe; whereupon, defpairing of fuccefs, the but are re-
enemy retreated; and, according to their cuftom, demand-pulfed; de-
ed a conference, pretending they had fomething to fay fire a treaty.
which imported the publick good, and might conduce to-
wards making a peace.
27. Whereupon C. ARPINIUS, a Roman knight, one
of TITURIUS's particular friends, and Q. JUNIUS a
Spaniard, who had frequently been fent before by CESAR
to AMBIORIX, were deputed to treat with them: to Ambiorix's
whom AMBIORIX fpoke to this effect; "That he speech to the
thought himſelf infinitely indebted to CESAR for the paties.
many benefits he had formerly received from him; for
having
Roman de-
90
Book V.
C. J. CÆSAR'S ·
}
1
•
WAR IN having freed him from that tribute which he uſed to pay
GAUL. his neighbours of Namur, and for fetting his fon and nephew.
The Romans
-tall a coun-
cil of war.
at liberty, who had been detained amongst the other ho-
ftages fent to that country: wherefore he had not affault-
ed the Roman camp out of inclination, but neceffity; for
fuch was the conftitution of his government, that the
people had no less power over him, than he over them:
that his country had undertaken this war in compliance
with the ſudden and general infurrection of all the pro-
vinces of Gaul: that he was not fo vain and unexperien-
ced, to imagine it poffible for him with fo infignificant a
force to overcome the Romans; but, by general confent,
the natives had pitched on that day for attacking the Ro-
mans in their feveral winter-quarters, to prevent one le-
gion from coming to the affiftance of another; nor was
it poffible for the people of Liege to deny their country-
men any thing, eſpecially where the recovery of their
public liberty was concerned: but having now diſcharg-
ed the duty owing to his country, gratitude obliged hím
to admonish CÆSAR, and friendſhip to intreat TITU-
RIUS, to confult the prefervation of themſelves and fol-
diers; for a great number of German troops, whom the
Gauls had hired, had paffed the Rhine two days before;
therefore they might confider whether it were not better
for them to leave their quarters, and march to CICERO,
or LABIENUS, the firft not being above fifty miles di-
ftant from them, and the other but a little further: for
his part, he promiſed and obliged himſelf by oath, to grant
them a ſafe paffage through his country, by which means
he fhould at the fame inftant oblige his countrymen, by
freeing them from the burthen of winter-quarters, and
make a grateful return for the favours he had received from
CÆSAR. Thus ending his fpeech he departed.
دو
CHAP. XI.
28. C. ARPINIUS and JUNIUS made their report to the
lieutenant generals, of what they had heard, who being much
furprized, thought the advice not to be neglected, though it
came from an enemy; and that which weighed moſt with.
them was, theycould not believe fo mean and obfcure a people
as thofe of Liege, would, of their own accord, preſume to
make war on the Romans: wherefore, having fummoned a
council of war, long debates enfued. LUCIUS ARUNCULEI-
US COTTA, and ſeveral of the tribunes and firſt centurions
were
!
Book V.
91
COMMENTARIES.
were of opinion, "They ought to do nothing rafhly, WAR IN
and that it was not proper to quit their quarters before GAUL.
nion.
they received commands from CESAR to that purpoſe, Cotta's opi-
becauſe they were fo well fortified, that they were able
to defend themſelves againſt any number of Germans
whatever; witneſs the brave repulfe and many wounds the
enemy had received at the firſt attack; nor did they want
proviſions to ſubſiſt on, till they could receive relief from
CÆSAR and the neighbouring garrifons; and, in fine, that
nothing could be a greater argument of levity or cowardice,
than to follow an enemy's advice in affairs of the greateſt
importance."
29. But on the other hand, SABINUS exclaimed, Sabinus'
opinion.
"They had but a very fhort time to confult in, for it
would be too late to do any thing, when the enemy was
grown more powerful by conjunction with the Germans,
or when the neighbouring garrifons fhould be diftreffed:
That he believed CÆSAR was already gone into Italy; for
the people of Chartres would not have prefumed to murder
TASGETIUS, nor thoſe of Liege fo impudently have at-
tempted to force our camp, if he had not been abfent:
That an enemy's advice weighed not with him, but matter
of fact did; for the Rhine was not far off, the Germans
were much afflicted for the lofs of ARIOVISTUS, and dif-
turbed at the memory of our late victories; the Gauls
no leſs enraged, to reflect on the lofs of their former mili-
tary glory, and the many injuries they had received fince
they were reduced to the obedience of Rome: And laſtly,
who could believe that AMBIORIX would have engaged in
fuch a deſign without certain grounds? That his opinion
was fafe on all fides; for, if the Gauls had no further
defign, they might without danger march to the next le-
gion; but, if the whole country had combined with the
Germans, the only means of fafety confifted in difpatch:
whereas no other event could be expected from the advice
of COTTA, and thoſe of the contrary opinion, except
ftarving by a long fiege, if they ſhould avoid immediate
danger.
30. The difpute was-warmly maintained on both fides,
and SABINUS's opinion ftrongly oppofed by COTTA and the
chief officers of the legion; whereupon SABINUS, that
the greateſt part of the foldiers might hear him, cried out
aloud, "Do as you pleaſe, I am not more afraid to meet Sabinus'
death than any of you; but let thefe take notice, that reply.
whatever misfortunes befal them, you are the perſon they
muft
92
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Book V.
WAR IN muft thank for them; for, did not you prevent it,
GAUL. they might in three days time arrive at the next garrifon,
fhare the fame fate with their fellow-foldiers, and not pe-
rifh by fword or famine, like an abject and abandoned
people."
The council
about to
break up;
the officers
defire an
union.
31. Upon this they were going to break up the coun-
cil; when the reft of the officers embracing them both,
intreated they would not by their obftinacy plunge their
affairs into fo defperate a condition: that, provided they
were but of one opinion, there could be no difficulty either
in ftaying or going; but their diffenfion was the ready
way to ruin.
The difpute continued 'till midnight; at
Cotta fub- length COTTA fubmitted to SABINUS's opinion, and or-
ders were delivered out for marching by break of day.
The reft of the night was confumed in watching, each
foldier being employed in confidering what he could carry,
and what part of the neceffaries provided against
winter, he muſt be obliged to leave behind him; all things
were contrived to convince the foldiers there was no ftay-
ing without danger, and to encreaſe it by their watching
mits
Sabinus and
and faintnefs.
CHA P. XII.
EARLY in the morning they began their march,
Cotta begin in long narrow files encumbered with much baggage, as
their march. thofe who had received advice from AMBIORIX their
particular friend, not a treacherous enemy.
32. But the Gauls perceiving, by our tumultuous watch-
ing, and the noife we made all night, that we deſigned to
decamp next morning, poffeffed themſelves of two con-
venient and private places in the woods, about two miles
diſtant from our camp, where they waited for us in ambuf-
cade; and when the greateſt part of our army had entered
ed by an am- the valley, the enemy appearing on the rifing ground on
both fides, at the fame inftant attacked our rear, and op-
pofed the afcent of our van-guard, engaging us in a place
of very great advantage.
Are attack-
bufcade.
-Sabinus's
33. Then was the time TITURIUS perceived his error;
cowardice, unprepared for fuch an event, he ran up and down trem-
bling, drew up his cohorts, but after fo awkward a manner,
that he feemed to deſpair of every thing, as it generally hap-
pens to thofe who are confulting when they fhould execute.
CHAP.
}
to f
ace
3
ག་
意
​B
B
Sabinus & Cotta
B
*
B
B
B
,、,、、་ ་
I I
B
B
A Sabinus & Cottie's forces in an Orb. B. The Gauls Surrounding
hort sand out of the Orb.
C13
**
Book V. COMMENTARIES.
93
CHAP.
XIII.
GAUL.
BUT COTTA, who forefaw this might poffibly be the WAR IN
confequence of their march, and therefore had oppofed it,
neglected nothing which might be of advantage to the
publick fafety, for he performed the part of an able gene-
ral in drawing up, and encouraging his men, and that of
a foldier in fighting. And becauſe the length of the army
rendered it difficult for the lieutenants to viſit all parts,
and give the neceffary orders for relief, they commanded
the foldiers to quit their baggage, and caft themſelves in-
to an orb; which though proper at fuch a conjun&ture,
yet at this time the fuccefs did not anſwer the defign, for
it daunted our foldiers, and encouraged the enemy, who felves into an
looked upon this expedient as the effect of defpair; be- orb their
confufion,
fides, as it always happens in fuch circumſtances, the fol-
diers, forfaking their enfigns, ran to the carriages, to
reſcue from thence what they fet the greateſt value on,
and the whole army was filled with clamour and weep-
ing.
1
34. But the Gauls underſtood their buſineſs better; their
officers gave orders that not a man of them ſhould leave
his ranks; that the baggage was theirs, and whatever
the Romans had taken fuch care to lay up, would cer-
tainly fall into their hands, fince all depended on the vic-
tory.
The Romans were equal to the Gauls both in courage
and number; and though they were deferted by fortune,
and their general, ftill they placed their hopes of fafety
in their valour; and whenever a cohort of the enemy's fallied
out, they made a confiderable flaughter among them.
CHA P. XIV.
The Romans
caft them-
;
ment.
WHICH AMBIORIX obferving, gave orders they Ambiorix's
fhould caft their darts at a diſtance, and not approach too manage-
near the Romans; that they fhould give way wherever we
made a fally, and purſue us when we returned again to the
army; for by the lightnefs of their arms, and daily exercife
they were fo nimble, that they might eafily avoid the fury of
our affault.
35. Theſe directions they obferved fo diligently, that
whenever a cohort left the orb to attack them, they fled
away; in the mean time, the place from whence we fallied
4
was
94
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Book V.
WAR IN was left expofed to the enemy's darts, and when we en-
GAUL. deavoured to retreat again to our poft, we were ſurround-
Sabinus
Ambiorix's
anſwer.
ed by thoſe we had put to flight, and the parties that
ſtood next them; wherefore, to pretend to maintain our
ground had been in vain, for we could neither have an op-
portunity of fhewing our courage, nor was it poffible for
us, though we ſtood ever ſo cloſe together, to avoid the
darts of ſo numerous an enemy. But notwithſtanding we
had ſo many inconveniencies to encounter, and the Romans
had received fo many wounds, having fought from break of
day 'till two o'clock in the afternoon, during all that time
they committed nothing unworthy their priftine courage:
the brave TITUS BALVENTIUS, who the year before
was primiple of a legion, a man of great authority, had
both his thighs ftruck through with a javelin; Q. LUCA-
NIUS, an officer of the fame rank, fighting couragiously
to relieve his fon, who was hemm'd in by the enemy, loft
his life; and lieutenant-general L. COTTA, whilſt he was
encouraging the foldiers, received a wound in his mouth
from a fling.
CHAP.
XV.
36. Q. TITURIUS, being diſturbed at this ill fuc-
fends to de- cefs, as he faw AMBIORIX encouraging his men at a di-
fire quarter. ftance, fent his interpreter C. POMPEIUS, to demand quar-
ter for him and his foldiers; to which AMBIORIX made
anſwer, “That he was ready to give him a conference if
he defired it, and hoped he ſhould be able to prevail with
his countrymen to grant the Romans quarter; but as for
TITURIUS, he would give him his oath, no hurt ſhould
befal him." Having received this anfwer, he afked COTTA
(who before had been wounded) whether he would
leave the battle, and go along with him to confer with
Cotta refuſes AMBIORIX; COTTA told him he thought it not proper
to confult with an armed enemy, and therefore reſolved
not to go.
to go to the
conference.
ty.
Sabinus goes 37. Whereupon SABINUS commanded the tribunes,
with his par- and firſt centurions, that were prefent, to follow him;
They are being come near AMBIORIX, he was ordered to lay
commanded down his arms, which he did, bidding thoſe who were
to lay down with him to follow his example: but whilft they were
treating about the conditions, AMBIORIX began to make a
long speech, during which time the Romans by degrees
were furrounded and put to the fword. Whereupon the
to the fword, enemy, according to their cuſtom cried out Victory, mak-
their arms,
and then put
ing
Book V.
95
COMMENTARIES.
ing a dreadful noife, and, charging our army with great WAR IN
fury, broke our ranks; at which time L. COTTA fight- GAUL.
ing bravely, loft his life, with the greatest part of the Cotta kill'd,
army; the reſt retreated to the camp they had left in and the
the morning, amongſt which number L. PETROFIDIUS, whole army
the eagle-bearer, finding himself oppreffed by the ene-feated.
entirely de-
my, caft the ftandard within the rampart, and manfully
fuftained their fury before the camp, 'till he expired; the
reſt were juſt able to maintain their ground 'till night, TheRomans
at which time every man of them, defpairing of preferva- that retreat-
tion, fell upon his own fword: fome few who had eſcaped ed to their
out of the battle, travelled through by-ways in the woods themſelves.
to LABIENUS, and gave him an account of the action.
CHA P. XVI.
camp, kill
mur and Hai
38. AMBIORIX was fo puffed up with this fuccefs, Ambiorix
that he immediately went with his cavalry to Namur, the goes to Na-
province which lay next to his country, travelling day and nault, moves
night without intermiffion, having left orders for the in- the natives
fantry to follow him. He gave the people an account of to rebel.
what he had done, and, having ftirr'd them up to rebel-
lion, arrived the day after in the confines of the Hainaul-
tois, whom he perfuaded not to omit fo glorious an op-
portunity of freeing themſelves for ever, and revenging
the injuries they had received from the Romans: He ac-
quainted them that he had already flain two of their lieute-
nant-generals, and put a confiderable part of their army to
the ſword; that it would be no difficult matter for them
fuddenly to attack, and cut off the legion in winter-quar-
ters under the command of CICERO; and that he was
ready to affift them in the enterprize. The Hainaultois
were eafily gained over by thefe arguments.
e
39. Whereupon immediately difpatching embaffadors to
the Centrones, Grudii, Levaci, Pleumofii, and Gorduni,
who are all their tributaries; and having raifed what for-
ces they could, they marched with great expedition to
CICERO's quarters, and arrived there before he had heard
the news of TITURIUS's death.
e SCALIGER and ORTELIUS fay the Centrones were the people of Taran-
taiſe in Savoy; but CÆSAR mentions two, countries of the fame name, and
theſe we are now ſpeaking of, lived amongst the Belgæ: fome critics ſuſpect
this to be a corruption of the text, but SANSON takes them for thoſe that
now live about Ghent; the Grudii he places at Bruges, the Levaci in the
county of Waes in Flanders, the Pleumofii in the diocese of Tournay, and the
Gorduni in the bailiwick of Courtray; probable conjectures taken from the
Lituation of the place, and far fetch'd etymologies,
I
CHAP.
96
Book Vi
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
CHAP.
XVII.
HERE likewiſe it fell out (as of neceffity it muft) that
the enemy's horſe ſurpriſed fome of the Romans, who were
gone to fetch in timber to ftrengthen their fortreffes: thefe
being thus fecured, the people of Chartrain, Namur, and
Hainault, with all their confederates and tributaries, a-
mounting to a great number, began to ftorm the Roman
The enemy camp: whereupon our men immediately repaired to their
endeavour to arms, afcended the rampier, and with great difficulty fuf-
tained the enemy's charge, for the Gauls had placed all
under Cice- their hopes in difpatch, and promifed themfelves perpetual
mand; but fuccefs, if they could but obtain the victory that day.
ftorm the
Romancamp
To's com-
are repulfed.
The Gauls
attempt a fc-
cond storm ;
40. In the mean time CICERO fent away couriers with
all expedition to CASAR, promifing them confiderable re-
wards, in cafe they had the fortune to arrive fafe with his
packets; but the ways round about were fo blocked up,
that they were all intercepted: however, in one night with
incredible celerity, he built to the number of 120 towers
(of the wood which the foldiers brought into the camp for
the fortifications) to compleat his works where they feen
ed imperfect. The next day the enemy, with a much
greater force than before, ſtorm'd our camp a fecond time,
filled the ditch, but were again repulfed; and the fame
but are again thing they attempted feveral days together, with the like
repulfed. fuccefs. The Romans in the mean while laboured incef-
fantly at their works in the night, nor were either the fick
or wounded permitted to reft; whatever was neceffary to
defeat the next day's aflault was provided in the night, fe-
veral ſtakes were harden'd in the fire, plenty of piles driven
into the ground; the towers were boarded, the battlements
and parapets fortified with breaft works of hurdles and
even CICERO, though of a weakly conftitution, did not al-
low him!elf time to reft in the night, 'till the foldiers un-
animously defired him to confult his health.
Cicero's
diligence.
The Hai-
the fameftra-
CHA P. XVIII.
41. THE Hainaultois finding themſelves thus difap-
pointed, their noblemen, who had formerly any acquaint-
tagem with ance or friendſhip with CICERO, defir'd a conference; which
Cicero, as being granted, they ufed the fame artifice as AMBIORIX
had formerly done with SABINUS: "They told him all
the kingdoms of Gaul were in arms; that the Germans
Ambiorix
had with Sa-
binus and
Cotta.
had
Book V.
97
COMMENTARIES.
had paſſed the Rhine; that CÆSAR's, and the reſt of the WAR IN
winter-quarters were befieged; that SABINUS was killed, GAUL.
and as a proof of it, produced AMEIORIX to their view;
wherefore CICERO would be much in the wrong, to flat-
ter himſelf with hopes of relief from thofe that were not
able to maintain their own ground: yet fuch was their
eſteem for him and the people of Rome, that they would
deny them nothing except their taking up winter quar-
ters in their country, which they would by no means per-
mit to grow customary; but if they had a mind to quit
their garrifon, the Gauls would allow them fafe paffage
through their territories, to fuch place as they defigned to
march to."
To this CICERO only anfwered, "That it was not Cicero's
ufual with the Romans to accept conditions from an armed anſwer.
enemy; but if they would lay down their arms, and make
ufe of his interceffion, they might fend embaffadors to
CESAR, from whofe clemency he believed they would
obtain fuch redreſs as they defired."
CHA P. XIX.
round the
a rampier.
42. THIS ftratagem failing, the Hainaultois furround-The Hai-
ed our camp with a rampier eleven foot high, and a ditch Daultois fur
fifteen foot deep. This piece of fortification they had Roman
learned fome years before, partly from the Romans, and camp with
partly from the prifoners they had taken; but wanting in-a
ſtruments proper for the occafion, they were forced to cut
up turf with their fwords, to dig mould with their hands,
and carry it in their cloaks; from whence we may form
a judgment how numerous they were; for in lefs than the
fpace of three hours they had compleated a circumvalla-
tion fifteen miles in length: the following days they
raifed turrets in proportion to the heighth of the rampier,
and prepared fcythes and penthoufes according to the in-
ftruction of the captives.
ล
43. The feventh day of the fiege, the wind being high, The Gauls
they began to fling burning bullets made of clay, and red laft effort to
hot iron upon the Roman barracks, which after the man- ftorm Cice-
ner of the Gauls being thatched with ſtraw, immediate-To's camp.
ly took fire, and the fparks were in an inſtant diſtributed
by the wind all over the camp; whereupon the enemy,
as if already fecure of victory, with great clamour ap-
proached our rampier with their turrets, mounts, pent-
a But the Roman miles only confifted of 1000 paces, which is 56 paces
lefs than ours, and their feet were about half an inch thorter than ours. Upon
the whole, their mile was near a tenth leſs than ours, 21 Engliſh making 23
Roman miles.
H
houfes,
1
98
Book V.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN houfes, and endeavoured to fcale it; but fo great was the
GAUL. foldiers courage and prefence of mind, that though they
were furrounded by the flames, and overwhelmed with an
infinite number of darts; though they faw their effects
burning before their face, yet not a man forfook the
rampier, or caft an eye upon his departing baggage, each
bravely maintaining his ground againſt the attempt of the
enemy. This was the bloodieft day our men endured
fince the beginning of the fiege; but they had the good
fortune to kill and wound confiderable numbers of the Gauls,
who crouded fo cloſe to the rampier, that the hindmoſt
prevented the front from retiring: By that time the fire
was a little abated, the enemy had joined one of their tur-
rets to our rampier; whereupon the centurions of the
third cohort retired from their poft, and, drawing off
their men, beckoned to the Gauls, and defied them to
enter if they pleaſed; but not a man of them had the cou-
rage to move. Then our foldiers affaulting them from all
fides with ftones, fet their turret on fire.
CHAP.
XX.
Pulfio and
Varenus.
44. THERE were in this legion two centurions, both
their gene-
men of extraordinary courage, that ftood fair for perfer-
reus cmula-ment, T. PULFIO, and L. VARENUS.
Theſe two were
tion. continually difputing for the preference, each ftriving
to be advanced above the other at every year's promo-
tion: PULFIO in the heat of the attack, cried out, "VA-
RENUS! what now detains you? what more glorious op-
portunity would you defire to fignalize yourſelf? this day
fhall decide the difpute between us, and put an end to
our emulation." Then leaving the camp, he threw him-
felf in amongſt the thickeft of the Gauls, and was foon
followed, at fome diftance, by his rival, whom honour
would not permit to ftay behind. PULFIO caft his pile
at the enemy, and gave one of them, who was haften-
ing to engage him, fuch a wound, that he immediately
dropped; but they foon covered him with their fhields, and
all diſcharged their darts at PULFIO, without giving him
leifure to retire; one of which piercing his fhield, ftuck
faſt in his belt, and turning afide his fcabbard, hindered
his right hand from drawing his fword before he was fur-
rounded. At this inftant VARENUS came to his affift-
ſtance, and the enemy left PULFIO, fancying the dart-
had already done his bufinefs, to attack VARENUS;
who having drawn his fword, killed the firſt that came
3
near
Book V.
99
COMMENTARIES.
near him, and obliged the reſt in ſome meaſure to retreat; WAR IN
but being too eager in preffing forwards upon a defcent, GAUL.
he fell down: PULFIO having in the mean time recover-
ed himſelf, now in his turn faved VARENUS, and both
together, after they had flain feveral of the Gauls, and
acquired infinite applaufe, returned fafe to their trenches:
So far did Fortune intereft herſelf in this glorious conteft,
that ſhe gave each an opportunity of refcuing his rival;
but left it dubious which of the two merited the greater
honour.
CHAP.
XXI.
of his being
45. GREAT part of our foldiers being wounded, we
had very few left that were fit for fervice: wherefore, the
hotter the fiege grew, the more couriers did CICERO dif-
patch to CÆSAR, though feveral of them were taken,
and racked to death within view of our foldiers. But Cicero fends
there happened to be one. VERTICO, a gentleman of Cefar word
Hainault, in our camp, who came over to the Romans at befieged, by
the beginning of the fiege, and had given fufficient proofs theaffiftance
of his fidelity this gentleman, with promifes of liberty
and confiderable rewards, perfuaded one of his flaves to
carry a packet to CESAR, which he tied to his javelin :
being a native of the country, he paffed without the leaft
fufpicion through the Hainaultois, and arrived fafe at CA-
SAR's quarters, who was informed by this means of the
danger CICERO and his legion were in.
of Vertico.
prepares to
46. Immediately on receipt of this packet, about five Cafar re-
o'clock in the afternoon, he fent orders to M. CRASSUS, Coves the
pay-maſter of the army, whofe quarters were in Beauvois, exters, and
about twenty-five miles off, that he fhould draw out his
immediately
legion at midnight, and march with all the expedition he relieve him,
could to join him. CRASSUS immediately fet out with the
courier: Another was difpatched to lieutenant C. FABIUS
whom he commanded to meet him on the borders of Ar-
ras, through which he defigned to march: he writ like-
wife to LABIENUS to meet him on the confines of Hain-
ault, if he could do it with fafety. He thought it not
adviſeable to wait for the rest of his army, which lay at
a greater diftance; only fent for about 400 horfe from
the neareſt garrifons.
47. At nine in the morning he had notice from his fcouts
of CRASSUS's approach, and having marched that day'
about twenty miles, he made him governor of Amiens, and
left him with a legion to take care of the baggage of the
H 2
army
100
Book V.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN army, the hoftages, publick papers, and all the proviſions
GAUL. which had been laid up there for the winter. FABIUS,
Cæfar ar-
confines of
Hainault,
word of his
relief.
according to his orders, met CESAR at the time and place
appointed; but LABIENUS having notice of SABINUS'S
death, the loſs of his cohorts, and underſtanding that all
the forces of Treves were marching towards him, was ap-
prehenfive, in cafe he fhould quit his quarters, the enemy
might miſconſtrue it for a flight, and that it would be im-
poffible for him to fuflain their affault, who were fluſh'd
with the fuccefs of their late victory; wherefore he ſent
CÆSAR Word of what dangerous confequence it might be
to leave his garrifon, after what had happened in Liege,
eſpecially fince all the horfe and foot of the people of
Treves lay not above three miles diftant from his camp.
48. CÆSAR approved of his reafons, and though the
rives on the expectation of his three legions was now reduced only to
two, yet, placing all his hopes of the publick fafety in dif-
patch, he arrived by long marches on the confines of Hai-
nault, where he was informed from fome prifoners, of
CICERO's condition, and what danger he was in: then
perfuading a trooper of Gaul by confiderable rewards to
carry a letter to CICERO, he writ it in Greck characters,
fends Cicero that, if it happened to fall into the enemy's hands, they
march to his might not be able to underſtand it; and if the meffenger
had not an opportunity of getting into the camp, he had
inftructions to faften the packet by a ftring to his javelin,
and caſt it within the trenches. In this letter CÆSAR fent
CICERO word, that he would very fhortly come with his
legions to his affiftance, and therefore encouraged him to
perfevere in his wonted conftancy. The Gaul being ap-
prehenfive of danger, according to orders caft his javelin
within the fortifications, which by accident light upon a
tower, where it ftuck two days before it was obferved by
the Romans; but the third day one of our foldiers found
Cicero finds the letter, and brought it to CICERO, who read it pub-
Cæfar's let-lickly to the befieged, which gave them no fmall fatisfac-
tion; and not long after, by the fmoke of the fires at ſome
diſtance, they were thoroughly convinced of CÆSAR's ap-
proach.
ter.
The Gauls
49. The Gauls having notice of this by their fcouts,
quit the
immediately quitted the fiege, and marched with all their
fiege, Cicero forces toward CÆSAR, which amounted to 60000 men.
iends Cæfar CICERO being now at liberty, took care to find out VER-
TICO's flave, the Gaul before-mentioned, and giving him
directions to travel with all the caution and diligence pof-
word of it.
fible,
Book V.
101
COMMENTARIES.
fib'e, ſent him with a packet to CÆSAR, informing him, WAR IN
that the enemy, having broken up the fiege, were march- GAUL.
ing with all their forces against him.
CASAR received this packet about mid-night; where-
upon he communicated the contents of it to his army, and
encouraged them to fight. The next day early he decamp'd,
and having marched about four miles, crofs a fpacious.
vale, through which there ran a river, he defcry'd the ene-
my; but thinking it dangerous to engage fo numerous an
army in a place of difadvantage, and confidering that fince
he had already raiſed the ficge, there was no neceffity for
fuch violent expedition, he chofe as advantageous a place
as he could to encamp in, which he fortified; and tho' he
had hardly 7000 men in his army, who having no bag- camps.
gage, could not require much ground to lodge themſelves
in; yet, to increaſe the pride of the enemy, he contract-
ed the ſpaces between the tents more than ufual, and
in the mean time difpatched his fcouts to diſcover which was
the moſt convenient way to cross the valley.
b
Cæfar en-
50. There happened the fame day feveral fkirmiſhes be-
tween the enemy's cavalry and ours on the banks of the
river, but both armies kept within their camp; the Gauls,
becauſe they expected the arrival of freſh recruits; and
CÆSAR, becauſe he endeavoured by a counterfeit fear to
draw the enemy out of the valley, that he might have the
opportunity of engaging them before his camp; or at leaſt,
if he could not effect that defign, that having difcovered
the fafeft ways, he might crofs the river, and pafs the val-
ley with lefs danger. The next morning by break of day, The Gauls
the enemy's cavalry marching up to our camp, engaged attack C-
our horfe, who, by CASAR's command, gave ground, far's camp.
and retreated into the camp; he likewife caufed the ram-Cæfar's ftra-
pier on all fides to be built higher, the gates to be ſtopp'd tagem.
up, and that the foldiers, in the execution of their or-
ders, fhould give all the demonftrations of fear and con-
fufion imaginable.
51. The enemy, enticed by thefe artifices, crofs'd the
river with all their forces, and drew up their army in a
very diſadvantageous place; our men having retired from
the rampier, they approached our camp, caft their darts
within the trenches from all fides, and ſent heralds round
about to proclaim, that if any Gaul or Roman would
come over to them before nine of the clock, they would
grant him quarter; but, that time once expired, it would be
too late to expect it: nay, fo contemptible were we in
b Then we muſt fuppofe his legions were not compleat.
H 3
their
102
Book V.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN their opinion, that, becauſe they fancied they could not en
GAUL. ter the ports of our camp, which we had ftopp'd up with
a fingle row of turfs, to make a feeming oppofition, fome
endeavour'd to fcramble up the rampier without ladders,
whilft others began to fill the ditch: whereupon CÆSAR,
theHainaul- Caufing his horfe to fally out from all the ports at the fame
inftant, put the enemy immediately to flight, not a man
of them daring to make the leaft oppofition; ſeveral of
them he put to the fword, and others were glad to furren-
der their arms.
Cæfar routs
tois,
52. CESAR thought it not convenient to purfue, be-
cauſe of the intervening woods and marfhes; wherefore be-
ing fatisfied with the execution he had already done upon
the enemy in that place, he arrived fafe the fame day with
Marches to all his forces at CICERO's camp, where he was amazed to
Cicero.
behold the turrets, penthoufes, and fortifications of the
Gauls. Having drawn out the legion, he perceived not a
tenth man had efcaped without wounds, from whence he
computed with how much valour and danger they had de-
fended their camp; wherefore applauding CICERO and
the legion for their courage, he spoke to every centurion
and tribune by name, who, as CICERO informed him,
had fignalized himfelf in the fiege. Having a parti-
cular account by the captives of the fate of SABINUS and
COTTA, the next day, in a publick oration, he comfort-
ed the foldiers upon fo melancholy a circumftance, telling
them, "They fhould be the lefs difturbed at the lofs occa-
Sabinus's fioned by the rafhnefs of a lieutenant, fince, by the favour of
the immortal Gods, their virtue had expiated that ſhame, in
allowing the enemy but a fhort time to glory in their fuc-
cefs, or themſelves to deplore their misfortune."
Cæfar's
fpeech on
defeat,
Labienus
far's fuccefs,
CHAP.
XXII.
53. THE fame of CAESAR's victory was carried with
hears of Ce-incredible fpeed through the country of Rheims to LABIE-
NUS; for though his quarters lay fifty miles diftant from the
place of action, which was not ended before three o'clock
in the afternoon, yet before midnight at the ports of his
camp were heard the acclamations of the people of Rheims,
congratulating LABIENUS on CAESAR'S fuccefs. Upon
Whereupon this news, INDUTIOMARUS with his countrymen, who
Induticma- defigned to have attacked LABIENUS's quarters the next
day, decamped in the night, and returned to Treves.
CESAR fent FAEIUS back again, with the legion under
his command, to his winter-quarters, defigning to ftay
himfelf
rus returns
home.
·
Book V.
103
COMMENTARIES.
1
himſelf with three other legions, to be lodged in feveral WAR IN
places about Amiens; and fince Gaul was fo full of com- GAUL.
motions, he refolved to ſtay there the reft of the winter; ~
for fuch was the effect of SABINUS's death, that every
province of Gaul fent mutual embaffies to inform each
other of their defigns, and where they would begin the
war; fo great was their diligence, they met in private
places in the night, to confult of their affairs; and fcarce
a day paffed all that winter, but what gave CESAR fome
folicitude from the intelligence he had of new refolves or Armorica
infurrections in the country. Amongst the reft, he was Civitates, or
informed by L. ROSCIUS, to whom he had given the com
the people
of Norman-
mand of the thirteenth legion, that a confiderable number a
dy and Bri-
of Gauls from Normandy and Britain had marched within tain defign
eight miles of his quarters, defigning to befiege him, but to befiege
having intelligence of CÆSAR's victory, returned with as but on the
much precipitation to their own country, as if they had news of
been put to flight.
Rofcius;
Cæfar's
victory re-
dom.
54. Whereupon CÆSAR fummoned the chief noblemen turn.
of every ſtate, and by intimidating ſome, in telling them
he was acquainted with their defigns, and encouraging
others to continue loyal, he preferved great part of the
country in obedience. But the people of Sens, the moft The people
puiffant and confiderable province in Gaul, by general con- of Sens con-
fent endeavoured to murder CAVARINUS, whom CÆSAR
fpire against
Cavarinus;
had conftituted their king, whofe brother MORITASGUS expel him
was poffeffed of the throne at CÆSAR's arrival in Gaul, the king-
and whoſe anceſtors had been ſovereigns there long before.
The poor prince having notice of their defign, prepared
for his ſafety by flight, but they purſued him to the con-
fines of their country, and deprived him as well of his pri-
vate patrimony, as his kingdom. Having fent embaffadors
to CÆSAR, to clear themſelves, he commanded the whole
fenate to appear before him: which they refuſed to com-
ply with. So far did this example prevail amongſt the
Barbarians, that fome were fo hardy as to declare open
war; and fo wonderful an alteration did it work through
the whole country, that there was not a province which
was not fufpected, (except Autun and Rheims, two coun-
tries always eſteemed by CAESAR, the firft for its ancient
and conftant fidelity to the people of Rome, the other
for the late fervices it had done in the Gallic wars.) Which
'may be accounted for from feveral reafons, but eſpecially
from that uneafinefs they felt in ſeeing themfelves, who for-
merly excelled all other nations in war, fo much fallen.
from
H 4
104
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book V.
WAR IN from their ancient glory as to become vaffals to the peo-
GAUL. ple of Rome.
Indutioma-
but is refu-
fed.
55. But INDUTIOMARUS and his countrymen of Treves
rus fends to were very bufy all the winter, in fending embaffadors
Germanyfor Crofs the Rhine, to follicit the Germans by promifes of
affiſtance, money to come to their affiftance; affuring them, for their
encouragement, that the greateft part of the Roman army
was already cut off. But not one province of Germany
could they bring over to their party, for they all fent them
word, they had twice experienced the courage of the Ro-
mans to their forrow, in the defeat of ARIOVISTUS, and
the people of Heffe and Zutphen; nor would they venture
However he to try their fortunes again. INDUTIOMARUS, being dif
my at home, appointed of this expectation, was nevertheleſs diligent in
raifing forces at home and in the neighbouring provinces,
in providing horfes, and encouraging out-laws to repair to
his ſtandard by confiderable rewards: fo great was the
credit and authority he acquired by this means throughout
the whole continent, that there came embaffadors to him
from every part of Gaul, as well in publick as privately,
to follicit his alliance.
raiſes an ar-
rus calls a
war.
The cuftom
56. Underſtanding that the people of Sens and Char-
tres of one fide, puſh'd on by the remembrance of their
late revolt, were marching to join him; that thoſe of Hai-
nault and Namur, on the other fide, were preparing to
make war againſt the Romans; and that he ſhould not
want volunteers, whenever he marched out of his coun-
Indutioma- try, he called a council of war. The cuftom of the
council of Gauls, before they proclaim war is this; "They fum-
mon all the youth of the country, that are able to bear
of the Gaul arms, to a general place of rendezvous, and he that has
before they the misfortune to come laft, in the preſence of the reft
declare war. is put to death with the cruelleft torments they can infli&t
upon
him." At this council INDUTIOMARUS took care
that his fon-in-law CINGETORIX, head of the oppofite
faction, who, as we have already taken notice, be-
haved himſelf faithfully to CÆSAR, fhould be proclaimed
claims Cin-a rebel, and his goods confifcated: then he acquainted
getorix a re- his countrymen, that he was called upon for his affiſtance
bel.
by the people of Sens, Chartres, and ſeveral other provinces
of Gaul; wherefore he defigned to march through the
confines of Rheims, and lay their country wafte; but firſt
he would befiege LABIENUS, and accordingly diſpatch'd
fuch orders as he thought moſt convenient.
He pro-
Labienus be
fieged.
57. LABIENUS's quarters being equally fortified both
by art and nature, he was not in the leaft uneafy for him-
felf
Book V.
105
COMMENTARIES.
ſelf or his legion; but thinking it convenient to lay hold WAR IN
of every advantageous opportunity, upon the intelligence GAUL.
he received of INDUTIOMARUS's defigns, from CINGE-
TORIX and ſome of his relations, who were preſent at
the council, he fent commiffaries to bring him cavalry
from all the countries round about, to whom he appoint-
ed a certain day of rendezvous. In the mean while IN-
DUTIOMARUS with all his horfe rode about the Roman
camp, fometimes to diſcover our fituation, and fome-
times to confer with, or threaten us, each of them cafting
his dart within our rampier; but LABIENUS fuffered not
his men to move out of their trenches, and contrived all
the means he could to convince the enemy of his fear.
•
58. INDUTIOMARUS vifited our trenches each day with
more contempt than before, till LABIENUS had, by the
favour of the night, received the cavalry from the neigh-
bouring countries which he had fent for; upon whofe ar-
rival he kept fo ftrict a guard in his camp, that it was
impoffible for the enemy to get intelligence of this rein-
forcement. In the mean time INDUTIOMARUS, accord-
ing to cuſtom, came the next morning to our camp,
where he loſt great part of the day, whilſt his cavalry caſt
their darts, and endeavoured by opprobrious language to
provoke our men to an engagement: but the Romans
made no return 'till the evening, when LABIENUS ſeeing
the enemy return difperfed to their camp, caufed his ca-
valry to make an unexpected fally upon them from two ſe-
veral ports, having firft given particular orders, that when
they ſhould have routed them, which happened accord-
ing to his expectation, they ſhould all aim at INDUTIOMA Labienus de-
RUS, and not wound any man whatever, before they had feats Indu
killed him, that no delay might give him an opportunity oftiomarus,
eſcaping; he promiſed likewiſe confiderable rewards to the
man by whofe hand he died; and fent the cohorts after the
horſe to ſuſtain them, if there ſhould be occafion. For-
tune feconded his purpoſe, for all the Roman cavalry aiming
only at INDUTIOMARUS, he was overtaken and flain
while he was fording the river; they brought his head to is cut off,
the camp, and then returning, purſued and flew as many and brought
of the enemy as they could. Upon the news of this to the Ro-
defeat, the forces of Liege and Hainault returned again to
their country, and CÆSAR enjoy'd more peace in Gau!
than before.
•
whofe head
man camp.
C. J. CÆ-
1
C. J. CÆSAR's
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
WAR IN
GAUL.
The SIXTH BOOK.
CÆSAR having reduced the Hainaultois, and receiv-
ed fubmiffion of thofe of Sens and Chartres, de-
feats the people of Guelders. LABIENUS bas
the like fuccefs in Treves. CESAR makes a fe-
cond expedition into Germany. The Sicambri at-
tack his camp; which he defends with fome lofs;
and having laid waste the country of Liege, re-
turns to Italy.
C
CHAP. I.
ÆSAR having many reaſons to expect farther com-
motions in Gaul, commanded his lieutenants, M.
SILANUS, C. ANTISTIUS RHEGINUS, and T.
Cæfar levies SEXTIUS, to raiſe recruits; and writ to CN. POMPEY,
fends to then proconful, defiring him, fince the affairs at Rome
Pompey for were fuch as neceffarily detained him there, that he
new forces,
more.
would lift again the difbanded legions which he levied in
Lombardy when conful, and fend them to him for he
thought it of great importance to his future affairs, that the
Gauls fhould perceive Italy was fo powerful, that he was
not only able immediately to repair any damage fhe received,
but even fond more recruits than fhe loft. POMPEY,
moved
[
Book VI.
107
COMMENTARIES.
(
moved by the publick advantage, and the friendſhip he WAR IN
bore CÆSAR, readily complied with his demands, and, GAUL.
before the winter expired, fent him three legions. Thus
having doubled the number of the cohorts which were
loft with Q TITURIUS, he fhewed the Gauls by his
forces and difpatch, what might be expected from the
riches and diſcipline of the Roman people.
CHA P. II.
many again
2. AFTER the death of INDUTIOMARUS, the peo- The people
ple of Treves conferred the kingdom on his next relations, of Treves
who loſt no time in perfuading the neighbouring Ger- fend to Ger-
mans, by promiſes of money, to undertake their affift- for affiftance
ance; but finding their endeavours vain, they made their and obtain it.
application to thofe that lived farther from them. At
length they gained over fome provinces to make a league
with them, upon delivery of hoftages, as a fecurity for
the pay they were to receive for their ſervices; and the next
ſtep they took was to enter into an alliance with AM-
BIORIX. CASAR being informed of theſe proceedings,
and perceiving what preparations were carrying on for
war on all fides; that the people of Hainault, Namur,
Guelders, and Germans croſs the Rhine were already up
in arms; that the natives of Sens, inftead of appearing
according to his orders, were in confultation with thofe
of Chartres; and that the Germans were follicited by dai-
ly embaffies from the people of Treves to come into Gaul;
he thought it neceffary to prepare for war earlier than
ufual.
3. Wherefore before the winter was over, having drawn Cæfar mar-
out the four legions which lay next his quarters, he made ches into
fo fudden and unexpected a march into Hainault, that be- Hainault;
fore the natives could either rally their forces to oppoſe
him, or five themfelves by flight, he had taken great num-
bers of cattle and prifoners; the plunder he gave to his
foldiers, and having laid the country wafte, obliged the
people to fubmit, and deliver hoftages for their future fi- which fub-
delity. This affair being thus expeditiously terminated, mits.
he fent his legions back into their winter-quarters.
CHAP.
.
108
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CHA P. III.
GAUL.
WAR IN 3. HE had before appointed the ſtates of Gaul to af
femble at the beginning of the fpring; but the people of
Sens, Chartres, and Treves did not make their appearance
there; which CESAR efteeming as a revolt, and declara-
tion of war, for the quicker difpatch adjourned the diet to
Paris, which borders on the country of Sens, and was
nates the di- within the memory of man united with it, yet not fuf-
et to Paris. pected to be concerned in the rebellion; wherefore having
from his tribunal pronounced the tranflation of the diet
Marches to to that place, he began his journey the fame day towards
Sens, and arrived there in a fhort time by long marches.
Cafar tran-
Sens:
They fub-
4. Acco, the chief author of that rebellion, having no-
tice of CÆSAR's approach, commanded the people to re-
tire into their towns; but the execution of his orders was
prevented by CÆSAR's diſpatch. Wherefore finding it in
vain to refift, they fent embaffadors to beg pardon for
pardoned at what they had done, and prevailed with the faithful Au-
the intercef- tunois to intercede for them: CÆSAR, at fuch a media-
Autunois. tion, accepted of their excufe, knowing well, that when
mit, and are
fion of the
ſummer was approaching, it was a ſeaſon for action, not
of examining delinquents; wherefore having demanded.
an hundred hoftages, he committed them to the cuftody
of the Autunois. Thofe of Chartres did the like, and by
Thofe of the interceffion of the people of Rheims, whoſe tributa-
the like, and ries they were, on delivery of hoftages obtained the fame
the people favour. After this he returned to the diet, and com-
of Rheims manded each province to furniſh him with their uſual quota
procure their
pardon.
of cavalry.
Chartres do
CHA P. IV.
5. HAVING quieted this part of Gaul, CESAR em-
ployed all his thoughts upon the war with Treves and AM-
BIORIX; wherefore to prevent any new commotions in
Sens, which might arife either from CAVARINUS's defire of
revenge, or the people's ancient malice, he commanded
him to go along with him, at the head of his country's
cavalry.
And having thus fettled thefe affairs, becauſe he was af-
ſured AMBIORIX would not give him battle, he began to
provide againſt all his defigns. Guelders joins to the con-
finco of Liege, is fortified with plenty of woods and marshes.
on
Book VI.
100
COMMENTARIES.
on every fide, and this was the only province of Gaul that WAR IN
had not fent embaffadors to CÆSAR, to defire a peace; GAUL.
he was likewiſe informed that they entertained AMBIO-
RIX, and by the inftigation of the people of Treves had
entered into an alliance with the Germans: but thinking
it the wiſeſt way, firſt to deprive AMBIORIX of theſe aſ-
fiftances, before he attacked him, that he might not have
an opportunity of retiring to Guelders, or joining the Ger-
mans cross the Rhine; he ſent the baggage of his whole
army before, under the convoy of two legions, to LA-
BIENUS, who was then in the confines of Treves, himſelf Cæfar mar-
marching in the mean time with the other five againſt ches with
the people of Guelders; who, relying on the natural for- five legions
tifications of their country, had raiſed no forces, but upon ders.
his arrival convey'd themſelves and their effects into the
woods and marſhes.
into Guel-
6. Wherefore CESAR, dividing all his forces into three
battalions, committed one to the care of lieutenant C. FA-
BIUS, another to M. CRASSUS the pay-mafter, and having
with great expedition finiſhed his bridges, attacked them
in three places at once, and fet fire to their towns and
buildings; he obtained a confiderable booty of cattle and
prifoners, which obliged the rebels to fend embaffadors to
fue for peace: CESAR, on delivery of hoftages, accept- That pro-
ed their fubmiffion, telling them he ſhould efteem them vince fub-
his enemies, if they received AMBICRIX into their coun-
try, or any deputies from him. This affair difpatched,
he left COMIUS of Arras there, with a party of horſe, to
keep the country in obedience, and marched himſelf to-
wards Treves.
CHAP.
V.
mits.
march to be-
7.
WHILST CAESAR was thus employed, the peo- The people
ple of Treves, having levied confiderable numbers of horfe of Treves
and foot, were marching to befiege LABIENUS with his fiege Labie-
fingle legion, which was quartered in their confines, and nus.
were already arrived within two days march of his camp,
when they had intelligence that he had received two le-
gions from CÆSAR: wherefore they encamped themfelves
about fifteen miles diftant from the Romans, defigning to
expect the arrival of their German auxiliaries. LABIE-
NUS, underſtanding their refolution, left only five co-
horts to fecure the baggage, marching towards the ene-
my with the other twenty-five, and a confiderable num-
ber
110
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
¿
to meet, and
encamps
within a
mile of 'cm.
artifice.
WAR IN ber of horfe; for he hoped their faſhneſs might afford him
GAUL. an opportunity to engage them; and therefore encamped
within a mile of the place where the Gauls were lodged.
He marches Between LABIENUS and the Gauls ran a river, which
was difficult to ford, becauſe the banks were very rough
and ſteep; wherefore he believed the enemy no more de-
figned to paſs it than himſelf. The Gauls were daily in
expectation of freſh fupplies, for which reafon he declared.
Labienus's in open council, "Since the Germans were fo near, he
would neither venture the lofs of his perfon nor army, but
decamp the next morning early." 'Twas not very long
e'er the enemy had notice of what paffed in council; for
having fo many Gauls in our army, it was natural for
them to favour their countrymen: but LABIENUS at mid-
night called a council of the tribunes, and firſt centuri-
ons, whom he acquainted with his defign; and that the
He counter- enemy might be more ftrongly confirmed in their opinion
feits a re- of the fear the Romans were in, he commanded the fol-
diers to remove with more noife and confufion than uſual,
as if they were flying rather than decamping; which the
enemy, not lying far off, were informed of by their ſcouts
before break of day.
treat.
8. Our rear had hardly left their trenches, before the
Gauls began to encourage each other to the purfuit; faying,
So happy an opportunity was not to be omitted; that
the Romans being in fo great confufion, it were folly to
ſtay in expectation of the Germans; nor was it fuitable to
the honour of their country, to permit fo fmall a party,
already put to flight, and encumbered by their baggage,
The Gauls to eſcape without daring to attack them." Wherefore
croſs the ri- they refolved to pafs the river, and engage the Romans,
yer.
Labienus's
notwithſtanding the difadvantage of the ground. LABIE-
NUS imagining this would be the effect of his retreat, to
carry on the artifice, marched flowly on till he had enti-
ced them all croſs the river; his baggage, which he had,
fent away before, he ordered to be placed upon a little
hill; then turning to his foldiers, he faid, "Fortune has
fpeech to his bleffed you with the opportunity you have fo long defired;
you have now drawn the enemy into a diſadvantageous
place; let me therefore defire you to behave yourſelves
with the fame courage under our command, as you have
done formerly when led by your general; believe him to
be prefent, that he beholds, and will reward your vir-
tue." Then commanding them to face about, he drew
up the legions in order of battle, and having detached a
foldiers.
fmall
Book VI.
TIC
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
He engages,
ſmall party of horſe for a guard to his carriages, difpofed the WAR IN
reft in the two wings of his army. Our men, fetting up
a fhout, immediately caft their piles at the enemy, who
were fo furprized to fee the Romans, who they fancied but
the moment before had fled, now come with their eagles
advanced to attack them, that they had not the courage to
ſuſtain the firſt onfet, but fled for fafety to the neighbour- and defeats
ing woods. LABIENUS purfued with his cavalry, flew the people
great numbers of them, took as many priſoners, and in a
few days after fubdued the whole country; for the Ger- Whereupon
of Treves.
were march-
mans, who were marching to their affiftance, having no- the Ger-
tice of this defeat, returned home again, taking INDU. mans, who
TIOMARUS's kinfmen along with them, who having beening to their
the occafion of this revolt, were forced to fly their coun- affitance,
try; and CINGETORIX, who had always given proofs return,
of his fidelity to the Romans, was conftituted king of
Treves.
CHAP. VI.
folves to go
9. CESAR, having left Guelders, was now arrived Cæfar re-
in Treves, where he refolved to pafs the Rhine, to chaf-into Ger-
tife the Germans for having fent fupplies to the people of many.
that country, and prevent AMBIORIX's being protected, Cafts a
bridge cross
amongſt them for theſe reaſons he began to build a bridge the Rhine,
a little above the place where he had croffed the river be and marches
fore, which was contrived after the fame manner as the over it.
former, and compleated in a few days by the conftant in-
duſtry of the ſoldiers. Having left a ftrong garrifon on
the other fide the bridge, to fupprefs all infurrections in
Treves, he croffed the river with the rest of his army: fo
foon as he arrived in Germany, the Ubii, who had former- The Ubii
ly delivered hostages, and were received into the protec- fend embal-
tion of the Romans, fent embaffadors to inform him, that fadors to
they had given no affiftance to Treves, nor done any
thing to forfeit their fidelity; but if he required it, they were
ready to ſend more hoftages; wherefore they humbly be-
fought him, that he would diftinguifh them from the reft
of the Germans, and not punish the innocent with the
guilty: CESAR, upon further examination, found the Ubii
were not concern'd in the revolt, and that the fupplies
were ſent by the Suabians; wherefore he enquired which
were the readielt acceffes to their country.
him.
10. Some few days after he was informed by the Ubii, He marches
that the Suabians had drawn up all their forces in one againſt the
place,
Suabians,
I 12
Book VI.
C. J. CESAR'S
GAUL.
WAR IN place, from whence they fent orders to their tributaries,
to furniſh them with fup lies of horfe and foot; where-
upon having choſe a convenient fituation to encamp in, he
ordered the Ubii to drive all their cattle out of the fields
into their towns; hoping, that ſo barbarous and unexpe-
rienced an enemy, being ftreightened for want of provi-
fions, might eaſily be drawn to engage in a place of dif-
advantage; commanding them, in the mean while, to
fend frequent ſcouts into Suabia, to diſcover the enemy's
motions: They obey'd his orders, and foon informed him,
that the Suabians, upon notice of his arrival, had retired
to a prodigious foreft, called Bacenis, at the extremity
of their confines, which ferved for a mutual frontier be-
tween them and the Cherufci, where they defigned to at-
tend the Roman army.
of the Gauls.
CHAP. VII.
11. AS we are come to this place, it may not be im-
pertinent to give an account of the cuftoms of Gaul and
Germany, and the different factions that reign amongſt
The cuftom them: The Gauls are ſo addicted to faction, that they have
not only divifions among their feveral provinces, cantons,
and diftricts, but even in every family; the heads of theſe
parties are perfons of greateft intereft amongst them, to whoſe
judgment and command they ſubmit the direction of all
their affairs. This cuftom feems to have been inftituted
by antiquity, to the intent that the moft obfcure perfon
in the commonwealth might be able to contend with his
richer adverfary; for each of thefe heads is obliged to pro-
tect his party, otherwife he would foon be ftripped of his
authority. The fame cuftom is obferved throughout the
whole continent of Gaul, which is divided into two fac-
tions.
were in on
Cæfar's ar-
rival.
What rof-
12. On CÆSAR's firſt arrival in the country, thoſe of
ture the af- Autun were the chief of one, the Franchecomtois of the
fairs of Gaul other party; but finding themfelves no equal match for
the Autunois (who from all antiquity bore the greateſt
fway in Gaul, and had many tributary ftates dependent on
them) pray'd affiftance of ARIOVISTUS and the Ger-
mans; whom by confiderable prefents, and great pro-
miſes, they drew croſs the Rhine to their aid. After the
arrival of their new allies, having fought many fuccessful
battles, the ſcales were fo turned, that thofe of Franche-
comte made themſelves mafters of ſeveral fiefs belonging
}
to
Book VI.
113
COMMENTARIES.
to the Autunois, obliged them to fend the fons of their WAR IN
nobility for hoſtages, to take an oath of allegiance to them; GAUL.
ufurped part of their territories, and foon obtained the ſo-
vereignty of the whole continent. Whereupon DIVI-
TIACUS took a journey to Rome, to implore affiftance
from the fenate, which he could not obtain: but on CÆ-
SAR's arrival the pofture of affairs was changed again, for
the Autunois recovered their hoftages, their fiefs, and, by
CÆSAR's favour, acquired more tributaries than they had
before; for fuch as put themſelves under their protection
were better uſed, and met with more juſtice, than when
they were dependants on the Franchecomtois ; whereby
their power and reputation were foon fo much encreaſed,
that their rivals were ftripped of their fovereignty. Thoſe
of Franchecomte being thus depreffed, the people of Rheims,
who were favoured likewife by CÆSAR, fucceeded to their
authority; for they, whofe ancient enmity would not per-
mit them to be vaffals to the Autunois, became clients to
thoſe of Rheims, who carefully protected them; by which
means they immediately grew a potent people. By this
turn of affairs, the Autunois once more became head of
one of the most powerful parties in Gaul, and the people
of Rheims of the other.
+
CHAP.
VIII.
govern-
* Equites.
13. THERE are only two degrees of men in Gaul The
who have the adminiftration of publick affairs, the druids ment of
or clergy, and the * nobility; for the commons are eſteem- Gaul.
ed no better than fervants, who have no manner of inter-
eſt, and are never admitted to their councils; but being
oppreffed either by their own debts, the impofition of tri-
butes, or the tyranny of the powerful, are obliged to be-
come vaffals to the nobility; who have the fame power
over them that lords ufually exerciſe on their villains. To The Druids
the druids belongs the care of divine things, of private and office.
publick facrifices, with the interpretation of their religion:
great numbers of youth come to be inftructed by them,
and they are held in wonderful veneration amongſt their
countrymen, who fubmit all differences to their arbi- They are fu-
tration: let the offence be of what nature foever, if any of all con-
preme judges
perfon be killed, if the controverfy relate to titles of troverfies.
land, or the extent of confines, theſe are the judges,
whoſe fentence muft decide, who pronounce rewards
and puniſhments: and whoever refuſes to abide by their
I
decree,
}
114
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
a
WAR IN decree, either lord or vaffal, is excommunicated, which
GAUL. is the greateft penalty that can be inflicted amongſt
them for they who lie under the condemnation of this
ſentence are reckoned in the number of the wicked, all
people fhun them, and avoid their company as contagious;
they are not permitted to fue for juftice, or to diſcharge
any office in the commonwealth. The druids have a ſu-
perintendent, to whom they are all fubject, upon whofe de-
ceaſe the moſt worthy fucceeds; but if there happen to be
feveral candidates, the election is decided by majority of
votes, and fometimes by the fword. Once a year they
have a general rendezvous at a confecrated place fet apart
for that purpoſe, in the confines of Chartres, which lies
in the midft of Gaul; hither all repair who have any con-
troverfies to decide, which are fubmitted to their decrees.
'Tis thought this difcipline was firft inftituted in England,
and from thence transferred to Gaul; for even at this day,
thoſe who defire to be perfectly ſkilled in that ſcience, take
a voyage thither to learn it.
The privile-
munities
they enjoy.
14. The druids feldom attend the army, being exempt
ges and im- from that duty, and from taxes, and enjoying all manner
of immunities. Excited by theſe encouragements, many
make a voluntary choice of that profeffion, and others are
brought up in it by their parents. Their bufinefs is, accord-
ing to report, to learn a great number of verfes by rote,
which ſome have ſpent twenty years about, none of them
being ever committed to writing; not that they are igno-
rant of letters, for on all other occafions they make uſe of
Greek characters; but, I fuppofe, they obferve this cuſtom,
to lock up their learning from the vulgar, and exercife the
memory of their ſcholars. Their chief principle is, that
the foul never dies, but tranfmigrates, after the deceaſe of
one body, to another; which doctrine is of great uſe to
infpire them with courage and a contempt of death; but
they have many other traditions in which their youth are
inftructed, concerning the ftars and their motion, the ex-
tent of the world, the nature of things, and the power
of the immortal gods.
Their
doctrines.
༤;.
a From this custom no doubt we derive our out-lawries; for by the ancient
laws of England, before men were out-law'd for debt, he who lay under that
fentence was reckoned a more hideous monſter than an excommunicate in a Ro-
man catholick country; caput gerebat lupinum, and it was lawful for any man
to kill him, if he refufed to furrender himſelf. Bracton, 1, iii, tract. 2. c. I I.
CHAP.
I
1
Book VI. COMMENTARIES.
115
CHA P. IX.
WAR IN
GAUL.
15. NEXT in degree to thefe are the nobility, who
when any war breaks out, as there did almoft every year
before CAESAR's arrival, either offenfive or defenfive, have The office
the direction of all affairs; each being attended by a num- of the nobi-
ber of vaffals in proportion to his eftate and quality, the lity.
only mark of grandeur amongst them.
man fácri
fices.
16. The whole country of Gaul is much addicted to fu- Their hu-
perftition for which reaſon thoſe who are in imminent
danger, either from fickneſs or battle, make an oblation of
ſome human facrifice, or even of themſelves: becauſe they
think the gods can never be appeaſed, but by the death of
one man for another: the public offerings of this kind are
committed to the care of the druids, who have large hol-
low images, bound about with ofiers, into which they put
men alive, and, fetting fire to the cafe, fuffocate them.
They believe thieves, highwaymen, and other offend-
ers, to be the moft grateful offerings to the gods; but for
want of fuch, the innocent are forced to fupply their
places.
their tute-
17. MERCURY is their tutelary god, to whofe honour Their gods.
they have many images erected; whom they efteem as the Mercury
inventor of arts, their guide and protector in voyages and lary god.
journeys, and believe him to have a particular influence
over merchandize, and all manner of gain. Next in eſteem Apollo.
to MERCURY is APOLLO, then MARS, JUPITER, and Mars.
MINERVA, of whom they have the fame notions with other Jupiter.
Minerva.
countries, that APOLLO can cure their diſeaſes, that MI-
NERVA firſt taught mankind arts and manufactures, that
JUPITER is the fupreme deity, and that MARS preſides in
battle: wherefore before they commence a war, they de-
vote great part of the ſpoils they fhall obtain to this deity;
and, when they obtain the victory, offer up all the cattle
they have taken, on his altars. The reft of the prey they
difpofe into a place fet apart for that purpofe; and in feve-
ral countries may be feen monuments compiled of of
ferings of this nature and it feldom happens, that any
neglect the performance of th ir vows, by concealing any
part of their plunder, or prefuming to carry it away;
for the penalties inflicted for crimes of this nature are the
moft cruel that can be devifed.
18. The Gauls believe themfelve. to be defcended from Their de
PLUTO, their druids having fo informed them; for which
1 2
reafon
fcent from
Dis or Flute.
116
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN reaſon they do not count time as other nations do, by days,
GAUL. but nights; and in the annual remembrance of their births,
the beginning of their months and years, they always men-
They count
the time by tion the night before the day. Another cuftom they have,
nights, as we which feems very particular; they never permit their
our feven- children to appear in public before them, till they are of ſuf-
night, fort-
ficient
night, &c.
age to bear arms; for, the contrary they eſteem dif-
honourable.
fortune.
The men
have power
their wives
The difpofal 19. Whatever fortune the wife brings, the huſband is
of the wife's obliged to equal it, and both the fums together, with their
annual product, are laid up for the benefit of the furvivor.
The men have power of life and death over their wives and
children: and when any man of quality dies, his next re-
of life and lations affemble to enquire into the occafion of his death;
death over upon the leaſt fufpicion they have power to put his widow to
and children, the queſtion, with as little ceremony as if ſhe had been one
of his fervants; and if they find her guilty, to burn her
alive. Their funerals are very fumptuous and magnificent,
in proportion to their quality; every thing the deceafed
party fet the greateft value on, is caft into the pile, even ani-
mals; and formerly, thofe vaffals and clients whom they
held the deareft, were obliged to attend them to the other
world.
Their fune-
rals.
The customs
mans.
20. Thoſe provinces amongſt them, which are moſt eſ-
teemed for prudent adminiſtration, have a law, that he who
receives news from the neighbouring ſtates, of importance
to the common-wealth, fhall immediately impart it to the
magiſtrate, without divulging it to any other perfon; hav-
ing often experienced the nature of their fubjects to be fuch,
that, frighted by falfe reports, they are apt to raife com-
motions, and put the ſtate in diſorder by their raſh refolves.
The magiftrates therefore truſt them only with fuch in-
formations as they think convenient, fuppreffing the reft;
nor do they permit any one to diſcourſe concerning ftate
affairs but in the council.
CHA P.X.
21. From theſe cuſtoms of the Gauls the Germans differ
of the Ger- greatly; having neither druids to prefide in facred rites,
nor troubling themfelves with facrifices: they acknowledge
Their gods. no gods but thoſe they behold, and whoſe influence they
Sol, Vul- are apparently obliged to, as the fun, fire, and moon,
canus, Luna. and have not fo much as heard of any other: they are per-
petual huntſmen and warriours; inure themfelves to labour
*
*
and
Book VI. COMMENTARIES.
117
Their cha-
and hardſhip from their childhood; and efteem thofe men WAR IN
the moft, who have longeſt preſerved their virginity, which GAUL.
they believe contributes to their growth, vigour, and ftrength
of their nerves; but nothing is eſteemed fo ignominious fity.
amongſt them, as to know a woman before they have
paffed the twentieth year of age; in which act they do not
confult privacy, for they waſh promifcuoufly in rivers, and only
make uſe of ſkins and ſmall mantles of fur inftead of cloaths, Cloathing.
leaving the greateſt part of their bodies naked.
22. They mind not agriculture, the greateſt part of Their diet,
them living upon milk, cheeſe, and flesh-meat; nor has
any man fields of his own, diftinguiſhed from the common
by boundaries; for the magiftrates and princes yearly dif- Way of liv-
tribute to every canton fuch a portion of land as they think ing.
fufficient in fome part of the country; whither they fend
them to continue only for one year, and remove them to
ſome other quarter the next: which cuſtom they obſerve
on feveral accounts, left from being attached to a place they
fhould change their inclination for war to tillage, and think
of extending their confines, to the oppreffion of the weak
by the powerful; left they ſhould learn to build more ele-
gantly than is neceflary againſt the fummer's heat and win-
ter's cold; but chiefly to prevent covetoufnefs, the root
of all factions and difcord, and preferve that equality of
riches in the common-wealth, which produces peace and
Content.
Their con-
great way
round.
23. Every country thinks it honourable to have their
confines round about lie wafte; for they eſteem it an ar- fines lie
gument of their courage, to have expelled their neighbours, wafte for a
and ſtruck ſo great a terror into them, that they dare not
venture to approach their territories; beſides, they think
this the way to fecure them from the danger of fudden in-
curfions. Whenever a ftate wages war, either offenfive or
defenſive, they make choice of an officer for that occafion,
whom they inveft with power of life and death; but have
no fuch magiftrate in time of peace for the chief of every
canton diftributes juftice, and decides all controverfies
amongſt his own people. They efteem it not infamous to Robbing out
fteal beyond their own confines, but rather a laudable ex-
erciſe which preſerves their youth from idleness; and when
any nobleman declares in a general affembly that he defigns
to make an expedition, they who approve the leader and
the cauſe, rife up to profer their fervice; for which they
are applauded by their countrymen; but they who ſtay be-
hind,
I 3
of their con-
fines no dif-
grace.
'
118
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN hind, after they have once offered to go, are looked upon
GAUL. as traitors or deferters, and never trufted after they are
Strange
ſtrict obſervers of hofpitality, and all their doors are open
to fuch as fly to them for refuge on any occafion; whom
they carefully protect.
24. There was once a time when the Gauls were ſu-
perior in arms to the Germans, and made war upon them;
fcarcity of land, and multiplicity of men, obliging them
to fend colonies crofs the Rhine: wherefore the moſt fer-
tile parts of Germany about the Hercynian foreft, which,
1 find, ERATOSTHENES and fome other Grecians have
mentioned by the name of Orcinia, were taken poffeffion
of by the natives of Upper Languedoc, who continue there
to this day, much eſteemed for their courage and juſtice,
patient of hardships and want, like the Germans, and con-
forming to their way of living, as well in diet as cloathing;
but the neighbourhood and commerce which the Gauls have
fince held with the Roman province, has taught them to
live more luxuriously; by which means growing infenfibly
weaker, they have been overcome in feveral battles, and
reduced to fuch a degree, that they no longer pretend to
compare themſelves with the Germans.
25. The Hercynian foreft is nine days journey over in
breadth, for I cannot compute it any other way, becauſe
the Germans are ignorant of the uſe of meaſure it com-
mences in the confines of Switzerland, Bafil, and Spires,
and extends along the river Danube as far as Tranfilvania:
then turning from the river to the left, it runs through an
infinite number of countries; nor has there any one of this
part of Germany travelled through it or found its utmoft ex-
tent, though feveral have gone fifty days journey in it.
In this wood are feveral kinds of wild beaſts, which are
beafts in the not to be met with elſewhere; of which the most remark-
able are theſe :
Hercynian
foreft.
Bull with
one horn.
26. A bull, whofe fhape refembles that of a ftag, with
one horn only, planted directly in the midſt of his forehead,
much longer and ftraiter than thofe of our cattle; this horn
is divided at the top into feveral branches; the males and
females are both fhaped alike, and their horns of the fame
fize.
1
27. They have likewife another
Alces', which much refemble the
b
kind of animals called
roe-buck in fhape, and
a Vossius' fancies the fingular termination, of this word fhould be Alx,
from the German Elch; monfieur D'ABLANCOURT tranflates it wild affes.
b The original is not capreis, but capris, though in SALMASIUS's opinion
it ought to be fo, with whom vossius likewife agrees.
the
2
!
Book VI.
119
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
the various colours of their ſkins, but are ſomething of a WAR IN
larger fize; they have no horns, nor joints in their legs, and
never lie down to fleep, and if they chance to fall, are not
able to get up again; wherefore, when they are weary,
they lean againſt the next tree, which ferves them for a
refting-place for this reafon, when the huntfmen have.
found out their haunts, they either loofen the roots of all
the trees thereabout, or faw them almoft quite off, to de-
ceive the animal, who coming to the ufual leaning-place,
the prop fails, and both fall down together.
los.
28. The third fpecies are thoſe creatures they call Uri, Uri or Bufa-
very little leſs than elephants; in colour, ſhape and kind, re-
fembling much our bulls: they are prodigious ítrong, won-
derfully nimble, and ſpare neither man nor beaft that has
the misfortune to come in their way; wherefore the na-
tives are very induftrious in digging pits to catch them.
The youth inure themſelves to this exercife, and particular
kind of hunting; for he who has killed the greateft num-
ber of them, brings the horns to witnefs for his courage,
and is highly applauded by his countrymen. So favage is
the nature of theſe beafts, though taken never ſo young, that
they cannot be tamed: the largenefs, fhape, and fpecies of
their horns differ much from thofe of our bulls, and are in
great requeft; the edges of which being tip'd with filver,
they uſe them for cups at their moft fumptuous feaſts.
CHAP.
XI.
enemy
bridge, and
leaves a gar-
29. CÆSAR had notice from his Ubian fcouts, that Cæfar re-
the Suabians were retired into their woods; wherefore ap- paífes the
prehending want of provifions (becauſe, as we have already breaks down
Rhine,
taken notice, the Germans are but little addicted to agricul- half his
ture) he refolved to march no further; but that the
might not be entirely delivered from their fears by his retreat, rifon there.
and that he might prevent their fending affiftance to the
Gauls, having repafled the Rhine, he only broke up about
two hundred foot of his bridge, on that fide next Germany,
leaving the reft ftanding; and at the foot built a wooden
tower four stories high, with other fortifications, where he
left a garrifon of twelve cohorts, under the command of
young C. VOLCATUS TULLIUS, to defend it. When har- He detaches
veft approached, he detached L. MINUTIUS BASILUS, Bafilus a-
with all his cavalry, against AMBIORIX; whom he order- gainft Am-
ed to march through the foreft of Arden, which is the
largeft in Gaul, extending above five hundred miles
I 4
in
biorix;
120
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
WAR IN in length, from the banks of the Rhine and the confines of
GAUL. Treves and Hainault. He commanded him to keep no
fires in his camp, that the enemy might not have notice
of his approach, hoping that ſecrecy and diſpatch might
give him an opportunity of doing fome confiderable ex-
ploit; and he himſelf defigned to follow immediately
after.
1
30. BASILUS performed his orders beyond expectation,
for he arrived fo quickly upon the enemy's territories, that
he furpriſed great numbers of them in the field; and by
their inſtruction marched directly to AMBIORIX, who had
only a flender guard of cavalry about him but as Fortune
has an influence over all affairs, fo fhe affumes a peculiar
power in thoſe of war; for as it was a moſt extraordinary
chance, that BASILUS ſhould fall upon the quarters of
AMBIORIX, before he was prepared to receive him, and be
feen, e'er his arrival was heard of; fo muft it be acknow-
ledged as ſtrange, that AMBIORIX, after the lofs of his
arms, horfes, and chariots, fhould make his efcape. But
this was owing to the fituation of his houſe, which was fur-
rounded by a wood, as the Gauls generally build near a
wood and a river, for coolnefs; for his men, poffeffing
who narrow-themſelves of a narrow paffage, fuftained the attack of
ly eſcapes
our cavalry till their mafter mounting a horſe which was
brought him, ſecured himſelf in the thickets. Thus Fortune
had equally a hand in bringing him into danger, and in de-
livering him out of it.
being taken,
Cativulcus
poiſons him-
felf.
CHAP.
XII.
31. AMBIORIX, having fecured his perfon, did not
endeavour to affemble any forces, but fent meffengers pri-
vately throughout the country, to command every man to
provide for his own fafety; thinking it either dangerous to
venture an engagement, or wanting time, by the fudden
arrival of the Roman cavalry, to put his defigns in exe-
cution: wherefore one part of them fled for fhelter to
the foreft of Arden, whilft the reft endeavoured to ſecure
themſelves among the wide extended marshes. Where-
upon CATIVULCUs, who fhared one half of the kingdom
of Liege with AMBIORIX, and was now grown too old
to endure the fatigues of war or flight, having beſtowed
many imprecations on his partner, for being the cauſe of
that unhappy revolt, fought refuge for his cares from a
poifonous draught, extracted from the yew-tree (whereof
they
Book VI.
121
COMMENTARIES.
}
they have plenty in Gauf and Germany) and fo ex- WAR IN
pired.
b
GAUL.
Condrufi and
declare their
innocence,
32. In the mean while the people of Cologn and Zul-
pich, two German colonies that lie between Liege and
Segni fend
Treves, fent embaffadors to CÆSAR, to defire he would embaffadors
not count them amongſt the number of his enemies, or be- to Cæfar to
lieve that all the Germans on their fide the Rhine were
joined in one common caufe; for, they affured him, they ne-
ver defigned to make war upon the Romans, or ſent AM-
BIORIX any ſupplies ; which CESAR being fatisfied of
from examining the captives by torture, promiſed them,
on condition they fent to him all the people of Liege, who
ſhould fly for ſhelter to their country, he would not com-
mit any acts of hoftility on their confines; then having di- Cæfar leaves
vided his army into three parts, he fent all the baggage his baggage
of his legions to Tongre, which is the name of a caftle at Tongre,
almoſt in the midst of Liege, where TITURIUS and Divides his
ARUNCULEIUS had formerly their winter-quarters. The army into
three parts
laft year's fortifications were yet intire; wherefore CÆSAR,
deſigning to fave his foldiers as much labour as he could,
made choice of this place, where he left the fourteenth le-
gion, which was one of the three he had lately received
from Italy, and two hundred horfe, under the command of
Q TULLIUS CICERO, for a guard,
Atuatica.
; c.
wards Guel-
marches
foreſt of
33. TITUS LABIENUS he detached with three legions Detaches
towards the fea-coafts, and the borders of Guelders Labienus to-
TREBONIUS, with the like number, he fent to lay the ders, Trebo-
country waſte on that fide next Namur; refolving to march nius towards
himſelf, with the remainder of the army, towards the ri- Namur, and
ver Scheld, which flows into the Mofe, and to the foreft himself to-
of Arden, whither, he was informed, AMBIORIX was gone wards the
with a ſmall party of horſe. When he firft began his
march, he defigned to return again in feven days, for he
had left the legion'in garrifon provifions for no longer time;
and ordered LABIENUS and TREBONIUS, if they could
conveniently, to return within the fame time, that upon
further confultation they might know what new methods
were propereft to be taken for defeating the enemy's de-
figns.
Þ But ORTILIUS thinks the Condrufi are thofe of Condrotz,
Arden.
CHAP.
122
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
CHAP. XIII.
34. THE rebels, as we have already taken notice, had
no army, town, or garrifon for us to attack, but were all
diſperſed amongſt the vallies, woods, marfhes, and ſuch
The rebels other places of fhelter; which were well known to them
felves in the from being in their neighbourhood: a circumftance that
woods and Occafioned no fmall care in CESAR, not for the fafe-
hide them-
marshes.
ty of the main body of his army (which was in no danger
from a frighted and difperfed multitude) but for what
concerned the welfare of it, the prefervation of indivi-
duals, who were tempted from a defire of plunder to
ramble through thofe unknown and private ways, where
the thickneſs of the woods would not permit them to
march in bodies. Wherefore, to compleat the bufiness,
and extirpate the race of ſo wicked a people, he found it
neceſſary to ſend an infinite number of ſmall parties againſt
them; for ſo long as he obliged the foldiers to maintain
their ranks, according to the Roman difcipline, the very
fituation of the place ferved the rebels for a fortress, who
had courage enough to lay ambufcades, and attack us on
advantage when difperfed. In the midft of thefe difficul-
ties CÆSAR took all the care imaginable, and though the
foldiers were inflamed with revenge, yet he rather choſe
to omit an opportunity of injuring the enemy, than do it
Cæfar pro-to the detriment of his army. Wherefore he invited the
claims it countries round about, who being attracted by the hopes of
the countries plunder, foon flocked from all fides to deſtroy the people of
round to Liege; by theſe means he only hazarded the Gauls in the
woods, preferved his own legions fafe, and got the rebels
furrounded, whoſe race and memory he refolved to extin-
guiſh, that he might revenge the crimes they had been
guilty of.
lawful for all
harrafs
Liege.
CHA P. XIV.
35. THUS their deftruction went forward in all places
till the feventh day was arrived, the time appointed for
CÆSAR's return to Tongre; but hence may be learned
what influence chance has over the affairs of war; the re-
bels, as we have already remarked, being frightened and
diſperſed, had not any body of forces to give us the leaft
apprehenfions; whereupon the Germans crofs the Rhine,
having notice that the people of Liege were deftined to
deftruction,
Book VI.
123
COMMENTARIES.
The Sigam-
derable
booty;
deftruction, and that all mankind were welcome to par- WAR 18
take of the plunder; the Sicambri that lie next the river, GAUL.
who formerly entertained the people of Heffe and Zut-
phen, when they fled from CÆSAR, levied two thouſand bri cross the
horfe, and croffing the river about thirty miles below the Rhine, and
broken bridge, where CESAR had left a garrifon, arrived come into
Liege,
on the borders of Liege, where they took feveral of the
natives priſoners, and obtained a confiderable number of where they
cattle, a booty the barbarians are the moft defirous of; nei- get a conf-
ther marſh nor wood put a stop to their career, ſo long as
plunder called them forward, for from their cradles they are
inured to war and theft: being inquifitive to know where
CASAR lay, they were informed, that he and his army
had left the country in the midſt of their progrefs, at but on the
length a captive afked them, Why they would trouble advice of
themſelves to purfue fo trifling and worthlefs a booty, when captive, de-
they might make their fortunes at a ſingle ſtroke? for they purfuing
might arrive in three hours march at Tongre, where the thole of
Romans had repofed all their baggage, under the guard of
ſo ſmall a garriſon, as was not fufficient to man the ramparts,
:
fift from
Cicero's
fo that not one of them durft venture out of their trenches. and march
Big with expectation, they hid the booty they had already directly to
got, and marched directly to Tongre, whither they were
conducted by the captive who gave them this information.
CHAP. XV.
quarters.
36. CICERO had fo ftrictly obferved CAESAR's orders Cicero des
hitherto, that he had not permitted fo much as a boy to ftir taches five
out of the garrison; but the ſeventh day he began to de- cohorts to
forage.
fpair of the performance of CASAR's promife, becauſe he
was informed he had marched farther up into the country,
and could hear no news of his return: wherefore being
moved by the complaints of his foldiers, who began to mur-
mur at his patience, and eſteem their preſent confinement
as bad as a fiege, not fufpecting any accident could befal
him within fo fhort a ſpace as that of three miles, whilft
an army of nine complete legions with a confiderable num→
ber of horſe was abroad, which had already defeated and
diſperſed the enemy, he detached five cohorts to forage in
the neareſt corn-fields, which were divided from his camp
only by a little hill. Moft of the fick and wounded of the
army being left in the garrifon with him, they who were a
little recovered, to the number of three hundred, were ſent
out
124
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSA R’S
.
WAR IN Out on this occafion under one enfign, and were followed
GAUL. by a great number of beafts of burthen, and fervants of
the camp.
The Ger-
at Tongre,
37. The very moment the foragers were gone out, ar-
mans arrive rived the German cavalry, who endeavoured to force their
and endea paffage through the Decuman port with the fame fury they
vour to force had galloped thither; the woods prevented our having no-
the Decu- tice of their approach, which was fo unexpected, that the
man port. futlers, who had fheds in the counterfcarp, had not leifure
The Ro-
mans con-
fufion.
Baculus,
reft of the
foldiers rally
to fave themſelves by retiring within the works. Our
men were extremely furpriſed at fo fudden an attack, and
the cohort that was placed for an out-guard could hardly
fuftain their firft onfet. In the mean time the enemy rode
round the trenches, to diſcover fome more convenient place
to enter at: Our foldiers with difficulty maintained the
gates; the other parts were fo well fortified they needed no
defence. In fine, the whole camp was frighted, every
man enquired of the next he met the occaſion of the tu-
mult, and no body knew which way to advance the ſtand-
ards, or where to poft himself; fome reported the camp
was already taken, others, that the Germans had defeated
CÆSAR and his army, and in the plenitude of victory were
falling upon them: whilst the reft, remembring that TI-
TURIUS and COTTA had loft their lives when poſted with-
in thoſe trenches, became fuperftitious, and prefaged the
like fate to themfelves. This confufion confirmed the ene-
my in the belief of what the prifoner had reported, that
we had no garrifon within; wherefore encouraging each
other not to let fo rich a booty flip out of their hands, they
began to ftorm our rampier.
38. P. SEXTIUS BACULUS, who had been primiple
tho' wound- under CÆSAR, whoſe name has been mentioned in former
ed, leaves actions, was left behind in the camp, and was fo dange
histent, and
places him-roufly ill, that he had eaten nothing for five days before;
felf in the defpairing of fafety either for himſelf or his foldiers, he
gate till the ftept from his tent unarmed, when perceiving things re-
duced to the last extremity (for the enemy had almoſt for-
ced their paffage) he fnatched fome arms from the next
foldier, and placed himſelf before the gate: the centuri-
ons of the out-guard followed him, and all together for a
while fuftained the Germans charge, till SEXTIUS, after
he had received many dangerous wounds, beginning to
faint, was with difficulty carried off by the foldiers; in
the mean time the reft had fo far recovered themſelves, as
to afcend the rampier, and make a fhew of defence.
CHAP.
Book VI. COMMENTARIES.
125
CHAP.
XVI.
Germans.
39. IN the mean while our foragers were returning WAR IN
home again, and hearing a noiſe, fent the cavalry before GAUL.
to difcover the occafion, who brought them word how dan- The fora-
gerous a pofture affairs were in: they were all ſtrangely gers return-
furpriſed at the news, and lamented the want of a fortifi-ing, fall in
cation to fhelter them from the enemy; but eſpecially the with the
new levies, who having no experience in war, impatient-
ly waited for the tribunes and centurions orders, to know
which way they muſt diſpoſe themſelves. The Germans,
at firſt when they beheld our enfigns, left off the ſtorm,
fancying the legions, which the prifoners had informed
them were marched further into the country, were now re-
turned; but finding their error, and contemning the ſmall-
neſs of our number, they furrounded our foragers on all
fides.
drawn up
40. The foldiers fervants fled for ſhelter to the next ri-
fing ground, whence they were immediately driven, and
caft themſelves for fafety amongst the ranks of the mani-
ples, which put them into more confuſion than they were
in before fome were of opinion 'twould be the ſafeſt me-
thod to draw themſelves into a triangle, and fo force their
way through the enemy; becauſe the camp was fo near, that
if fome fhould fall in the attempt, the reft might fecure them-
felves; but others thought it beft to poffefs the hill, and all
expect the fame fate. The veteran foldiers, who, as we The veteran
obferved, went out under one enfign, could by no means foldiers,
approve of this advice: wherefore encouraging each other, into a trian-
under the conduct of C. TREBONIUS, a Roman knight, gle, force
their commanding officer, they broke through the midft their way
through the
of the enemy, and arrived every man of them fafe in the Germans,
camp; they were followed with the fame impetuofity by and arrive
the fervants and cavalry, who thus procured their fafety by late in
the foldiers courage: but they who had poffeffed themſelves new levies
of the hill, for want of difcipline, could neither perfift in not taking
their own ſcheme of maintaining their ground, nor by one the fame
briſk effort imitate their fellow-foldiers example; but in most of them
endeavouring to obtain the camp, quitted their poſt of ad- cut off.
vantage the centurions, who for their courage had been
promoted from the lower order in other legions to the up-
per in theſe new troops, fought bravely to maintain the
glory they had formerly acquired, and died with honour;
their courage, beyond expectation, gave fome of the fol-
diers
fafe in the
camp: The
way, are
Ꭸ
126
Book VI.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR
IN diers means to eſcape, but the reft were ſurrounded, and
GAUL. cut to pieces by the enemy.
The Ro-
after the
Germans re-
treat.
CHAP.
XVII.
41. THE Germans now defpairing of fuccefs, fince they
mans fear faw our foldiers ready to defend the works, returned cross
the Rhine with the booty they had hidden in the woods;
but fo great was the fear which poffeffed our men, even af-
ter their retreat, that when C. VOLUSENUS arrived from
CESAR that night with the cavalry, they could not be
perfuaded that CÆSAR and his army were fafe, and follow-
ing him to the camp: in fine, they were fo bewitched
with fear that they would not believe but CÆSAR was rout-
ed, and none but the horſe had efcaped: for they could
not conceive how the Germans durft attempt to force their
trenches if he was fafe; but his arrival convinced them of
their error.
Cæfar re-
blames Ci-
42. When CÆSAR came back, he was informed of the
turns to the late action, in which he found nothing to complain of, but
camp, the cohorts foraging contrary to his orders; for the enemy's
cero for let-fudden attack proved how dangerous it was to truft Fortune
ting his co- with the most minute opportunity: he wondered extreme-
horts forage ly the Germans had fo narrowly efcaped him, but infinite-
ly more, that they, who croffed the Rhine on purpoſe to
lay waste the country of AMBIORIX, fhould do him the
greateſt ſervice imaginable, by endeavouring to take the Ro-
contrary to
orders.
Cæfar re-
man camp.
CHAP. XVIII.
43. CESAR returning again to harrafs the country of
turns to har- Liege, levied great numbers of forces in the neighbouring pro-
rafs Liege. vinces, and fent them into all parts; not a houfe nor village
that came in their way efcaped burning; they plundered on
every fide and the continual rains, as well as the number
of foldiers and cattle, fo effectually destroyed the corn,
that they who efcap'd the fword, were likely to die with fa-
The cavalry mine. The cavalry were divided into ſo many parties,
divided into that they often came to the very places where the captives
fmall partics informed them they had feen AMBIORIX, and that he was
trufting his but juft out of fight; and fo defirous were fome of the fol-
perfon only diers to recommend themſelves to their general by appre-
4 horfe, of hending him, that they performed wonders in their unwea-
ten narrow-ried purfuit; each moment flattered them the next would
ly eſcapes.
Ambiorix,
to a guard of
compleat
Book VI.
127
COMMENTARIES.
compleat their happineſs: but AMBIORIX, riding from one WAR IN
thicket to another, and removing his quarters in the night, GAUL.
eſcaped their moſt diligent ſearch; being attended only by
four horfe, all the friends he durft confide in.
Cæfar re-
to
Acco fen-
tenced more
44. Thus CESAR having laid the country waſte, only turns
with the lofs of two cohorts, marched his army to the ca- Rheims,
pital of Rheims, where he fummoned the diet of Gaul: holds a diet.
When the ſtates were affembled, he commanded them to
examine into the rebellion of Sens and Chartres; and AC-
co being found the principal cauſe of this revolt, had the majorum
fevere ſentence paffed upon him, according to ancient cuf-
tom, To be ſtripped naked, and with his neck fixed be-
tween the granes of a fork, to be be whipped to death, and
afterwards beheaded; fome, who fled, not daring to ſtand
the rigour of a tryal, were banifhed. Then fending two
legions to take up their winter-quarters in Treves, two dicti
more to Langre, the other fix to the capital of Sens;
having provided his army with corn, he returned, accord-
ing to his cuftom, to hold the diet of Lombardy.
* Aqua &
igne inter-
C. J. CÆ-
WAR IN
GAUL.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
The SEVENTH BOOK.
A general revolt of the Gauls, who chooſe VERCIN-
GETORIX for their leader. CASAR takes feveral
places. The fiege of Bourges. Divifions in Au-
tun. The fiege of Clerimont, where the Romans
are repulfed with lofs. LABIENUS's fuccefs at
Paris. Preparations of VERCINGETORIX; and
the fiege of Alexia.
C
CHAP. I.
ESAR having quieted the commotions in Gaul,
went, as he defigned, into Lombardy, to prefide at
the convention of the ftates; where being informed
of the death of PUBLIUS CLODIUS, and the fenate's de-
cree for affembling all the youth of Italy; he refolved to
raiſe new levies throughout his whole province. This news
was foon carried into Gaul, where the natives added what
they thought convenient to it; reporting that CÆSAR was
detained by the troubles at Rome, and that it was impof-
fible for him to come to his army, whilſt the factions there
were fo hot. Encouraged by this opportunity, they who
had long bemoaned their ſubjection to the Roman yoke,
now began to confult more openly of war; and the princes
of
Book VII. COMMENTARIES.
129
GAUL.
The Gauls
Cæfar's ab-
of Gaul, having appointed private meeting-places in the WAR IN
woods, there communicated their mutual regret for the
death of ACCO, in whofe puniſhment they thought them-
felves all concerned; they lamented the fate of their country,
and promiſed great rewards to them that would firft begin taking ad
the war, and venture their lives to restore their liberty. vantage of
The firſt ſtep to be made, in fo important an attempt, was fence and the
to block up CÆSAR's paffage to his army, before he could
receive intelligence of their defign; which they imagined Rome, con-
feaſible, becauſe the legions without their general's orders fult about a
durft not leave their quarters, nor could CÆSAR come to volt.
them without a guard: in fine, they refolved to die, rather
than not recover that glory and liberty which they had re-
ceived from their anceſtors.
CH'A P. II.
factions at
general re-
Thoſe of
2. WHEREUPON the people of Chartres declared,
no danger fhould deter them from undertaking any enter- Chartres
prize that might be of fervice to the publick, and promiſed first declare
to begin the war themſelves; but, to avoid delay, fince war.
they had no time mutually to deliver hoftages, they deſired
the reft would fwear upon their ftandards (the moft folemn
obligation amongst the Gauls) not to defert them after
they had declared war against the Romans. The fatisfac-
tion they defired was readily complied with, they were
highly applauded for their piety to their country, and fo
the council for that time was diffolved.
cre Fulfius
Orleans or
3. At the day appointed, the people of Chartres, led on Cotuatus
by COTUATUS and CONETODUNUS, men of defperate and Coneto-
reſolution, on a fign given, marched directly to Orleans, dunus maffa-
where they maffacred all the Roman citizens, who came Cotta and all
thither to traffick, and feized their effects; amongſt the the Roman
rest C. FULSIUS COTTA, a worthy Roman knight, whom merchants at
CÆSAR had made commiffary general of the ftores. This Genabum.
action was quickly known all over Gaul: for when any
important accident happens among them, the news is foon
circulated through the country, by a fhout communicated
from town to town, till it is carried through the continent.
So that, what was done at Orleans at fun-rife, was heard
of at Auvergne, about 160 miles diftant, before nine
o'clock the fame evening.
K
CHAP.
130
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
rix takes
CHA P. III.
4. INSPIRED by this example, VERCINGETORIX,
GAUL. the fon of CELTILLUS of Auvergne, a youth of the great-
eft authority there (whofe father had formerly obtained
Vercingetc the command of Gaul, but was flain by his own country-
armas, is ex- men for aiming at the fovereignty) called his clients toge-
pelled his ther, and eafily perfuaded them to rebel; but his defign
.country. being diſcovered, the whole country repaired to their arms,
and he was expelled the city of Cleremont by his uncle
GOBANITIO, and thoſe other noblemen who were not for
But lifting embarking in fo dangerous an attempt. However, not dif
an army, he couraged by this misfortune, he began to lift all the vaga-
returns and bonds and out-laws he could meet with, and having levied
drives out a confiderable number of thofe, he eafily perfuaded fuch
1
ed king.
of his countrymen as came near him, to follow his ftand-
ard, encouraging them to take arms for the common li-
berty of Gaul: and having now a powerful army under his
command, being fuperior to his enemies, he drove them
out of the country, who not long before had expelled him ;
Is proclaim- whereupon he was complimented with the title of king.
He immediately diſpatched embaffadors to all the countries
round, to adviſe them to perfevere in their noble refoluti-
Enters into ons; and entered into a league with the people of Sens,
league, with Paris, Poictou, Quercy, Tours, Limofin, Eureux, Anjou,
the neigh- and thofe other countries which lay towards the fea; who
bouring
ftates, who by unanimous confent chofe him their general. Being in-
choofe him vefted with this authority, he demanded hoftages from every
their gene- one of thofe ftates, appointed what quota of men they ſhould
immediately furniſh him with,and what quantity of arms each
His fevere fhould provide, by a certain day prefixed, and was parti-
difcipline, cularly careful to get a number of horfe. Befides diligence
ral.
He fends
Lufterius
againſt Ro-
verge.
Marches
himself to
Berry.
he made ufe of feverity, and by pains and penalties obliged
thoſe that ſtood neuter, to declare themſelves; fuch as were
guilty of notorious crimes he puniſhed with fire, and all
manner of torments; and they who committed ſmaller faults
having their ears cut off, or eyes put out, were ſent back
into their own countries, for an example to the reft, and
to deter others, by the greatneſs of their puniſhment, from
being guilty of the like offences.
5. Thus having quickly levied a confiderable army, he
detached one party, under the command of LUCTERIUS
of Quercy, a man of fpirit and enterprize, to Roverge,
marching himſelf with the reſt againſt Berry: upon his ar-
rival,
Book VII. COMMENTARIES.
131
The cowar
rival, the people of Berry, being dependants on thofe of WAR in
Autun, fent thither for affiftance, to protect them from GAUL.
the enemy's invafion; the Autunois, by the advice of the
lieutenants whom CASAR had quartered among them, com-
plied with their demands, and fent them a party of horſe Ligeris.
and foot; who arriving at the Loire, which divides the dice of the
confines of Berry from Autun, ftaid there a few days, with- party the
out daring to paſs the river, then returned home again, and Autunois
informed our lieutenants, they were jealous of treachery Berry.
from thofe of Berry; for they were credibly informed, in
cafe they paffed the Loire, they ſhould be attacked on one
fide by the people they went to affift, and on the other by
thoſe of Auvergne. For my part, I cannot certainly af-
firm whether there was truth in their excufe, or they be-
tray'd their truſt; but immediately on their departure Ber-
ry joined with the rebels of Auvergne.
6. CÆSAR having notice of theſe tranſactions, ſo foon
as he was informed that CN. POMPEY's prudence had
compoſed the diſorders at Rome, repaffed the Alps: here
he was greatly diſturbed to contrive which way he ſhould
join his army, for he confidered, in cafe he fhould fend
for any of his legions out of their quarters, they would be
obliged, during his abfence, to give the enemy battle in
their march: nor did he think it convenient to truft his
perſon, even amongſt thoſe ſtates which had not yet re-
belled.
CHA P. IV.
fent to affift
fubmits to
nois and Ge-
to enter the
7. IN the mean while LUCTERIUS of Quercy, who
was fent to Roverge, had obliged that country likewife to Roverge
join with the faction of Auvergne ; then marching against Luterius, fo
the Agenois and Gevaudan, he received hoftages from each do the Age-
of thoſe ſtates; and having raifed a confiderable army, vaudan.
endeavoured to make an eruption into the Roman province
on the fide next Narbonne. Upon notice of this expedi- He marches
tion, CESAR thought it highly imported him to go im- Roman pro-
mediately to Narbonne on his arrival he encouraged fuch vince.
as were wavering, to continue firm in their allegiance, and
placed garrifons in Roverge fituated in the Province, and
in the lower Languedoc, Tholoufe, and the other towns.
which were neareſt the enemy; commanding part of the Pro-
vincial forces, together with the new levies he had brought
from Italy, to render themſelves at Vivarais, which joins
to the confines of Auvergne.
8. CÆSAR
:
K 2
132
C. J. CÆSA R'S Book VII.
WAR IN
now levics.
in the midſt
8. CÆSAR having thus diſpatched the neceffary or-
GAUL. ders, and difappointed LUCTERIUS, who, not thinking it
fafe to venture among the garrifons, was withdrawing, went
Cæfar goes
to meet the forces which he had fent before to Vivarais.
to Vivarais,
whither he 'Twas now the depth of winter, and though the mountains
had fent the of the Cevennes, which divide Auvergne from Vivarais,
Croffes the were covered with fnow fix foot deep, which ſtopped all
mountains the paffages; yet by the wondrous application of the fol-
of Cevennes diers the ways were opened, and he arrived in the territo-
of winter, ries of the Auvergnois, who were foon fuppreffed, while
and arrives they fcarce dreamt of his approach, thinking themſelves as
at Auvergne, well fecured on that fide by the mountains as by a wall,
fince never any fingle man had been known to travel the
fame way before at that unfeaſonable time of the year;
he then fent his cavalry out in feveral parties about the
country, to ſtrike as great a terror as poffible into the ene-
my. News of this was foon brought to VERCINGETO-
RIX, whofe countrymen, full of confternation, fied to him,
defiring he would confult the good of Auvergne, and not
fuffer them to be deſtroyed by the Romans,efpécially fince the
whole ſtreſs of the war depended on them: moved by their
Vercingeto- intreaties he decamped from Berry, and marched towards
Berry, and Auvergne.
which fub-
mits.
rix leaves
Cæfar
at Vienna or
Vienne in
marches to 9. But CESAR foreſeeing what ſteps VERCINGETORIX
Auvergne. would take, ſtay'd two days only in the country, and un-
leaves his der pretence of raifing new levies, and drawing the caval-
camp ar- ry together, left his army to the command of young BRU-
rives by poft TUS, whom he ordered to diſperſe the horſe as wide as
he could, that they might harraſs the country; promiſing,
Dauphine, if poffible, to return again to the camp within three days:
and from then, without acquainting any one with his defign, he took
poft for Vienna, where he had laid freſh horſes ſome time
before, and from thence, travelling day and night with-
out intermiffion, rid through the confines of Autun to Lan-
gre (where two legions were quarter'd) that he might dif-
appoint any attempts of the Autunois againſt his perfon by
diſpatch.
thence to
Langre.
CHA P. V.
BEING thus arrived at Langre, he fent to the reft of
his legions, and drew them all together, before the people
Vercingeto- of Auvergne knew of his journey; but fo foon as VERCIN-
GETORIX was informed of our motions, he return'd again
Gergovia. to Berry, and from thence marched to inveft Gergovia,
rix marches
to beſiege
a town
Book VII.
133
COMMENTARIES.
*
a town of the Boii, built by CAESAR after the victory he WAR IN
obtained over the Swiſs, and by him made tributary to the GAUL.
Autunois.
winter-quar.
ters, march-
affiftance of
10. This affair gave CÆSAR no fmall occafion to confult Cæfar hav.
what methods were propereft to be taken; for he was ap-ing drawn
prehenfive, in cafe he ſhould not draw his legions out of his army
their quarters to affiſt the tributaries of Autun, the whole out of their
country of Gaul would revolt, finding it in vain to expect
protection from the Romans; on the other hand, if he took es to the
the field too early, he had reaſon to fear want of provifi- the Boar-
ons however, he refolved to undergo any difficulty, ra- bonnois.
ther than ſuffer fo ignominious and fatal a blow to the Ro-
man intereſt. Wherefore having ordered the Autunois to
furniſh him from time to time with provifions, he diſpatch-
ed a courier to inform the Boii he would quickly come to
their relief, to encourage them to continue firm in their al-
legiance, and vigorously fuftain the affault of the enemy:
according to his promife, having left the baggage of his
army under a guard of two legions at Sens, he marched
towards Bourbonne
c
b
11. The next day arriving at Chafteau-Landon, a town
in the country of Sens, he refolved to take it in, that he
might leave no enemy behind to intercept his convoys: in
two days he compleated his circumvallation, and the third
the beſieged fent deputies to treat of a furrender, whom he
commanded to deliver up their arms, horfes, and 600 hof-
tages. The execution of this treaty he left to the care of
C. TREBONIUS, intending to march with what expedition
he could to Orleans, a city belonging to thofe of Char- He arrives
at Orleans,
tres; who having notice that Chafteau-Landon was taken, which he
and concluding CESAR would not reft there, refolved to takes and
provide a ſtrong garriſon to defend the town. Here CÆSAR
a The Boii, SANSON fays, are the preſent inhabitants of Bourbonne, yet
will have this Gergovia to be the fame with that in Auvergne, which he calls
Cleremont, though, he confeifes, others affirm this to be Moulins: SCALIGER,
in his Notitia Galliæ, mentions not Gergovia, believing, as I fuppofe, with
ORTELIUS, that it was foifted into the text. Vossius is of a different opi-
nion, but fays the text is corrupted, becauſe the Greek has it :yorvav;
but which of theſe learned gentlemen is in the right, I leave to the determi
nation of thoſe criticks who have more curiofity than myfelf: I fhall only
take notice, that though monfieur SANSON calls Gergovia in Auvergne, Cle
remont, whofe interpretation I have followed in the name; yet SCALIGER,
ORTELIUS, and CLUVER place Gergovia about a league's distance from Cle-
remont.
b The capital of Sens, Agendicum.
c Vellaunodunum, by fome thought to be Villeneuve in Lorrain, by others
Auxerre; but SANSON, who agrees with CELLARIUS, fays it is Chateau-Lan-
don, which CÆSAR befieges and takes.
facks.
K 3
arrived
134
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VII.
WAR IN arrived after two days march; but being benighted, was
GAUL. obliged to defer his affault till the next morning; however
Then
marches to-
wards Berry.
he diſpatched the neceffary orders, and apprehending the
befieged might ſteal out of the town by night, becauſe Or-
leans joins to the bridge cross the Loire, he commanded
two legions to lie all night upon their arms. Accordingly
the citizens, a little after midnight, began to pafs the river
without any noiſe; which CÆSAR having notice of from
his fcouts, fet the gates on fire, then ordered the legions pre-
pared for that purpofe, to enter the town; which they made
themſelves mafters of, and took moft of the enemy pri-
ſoners: for the narrowness of the bridge and paffages had
given but few an opportunity to eſcape. Having fack'
the town, he gave the plunder to the foldiers; then paffing
the Loire, arrived on the confines of Berry.
CHAP. VI.
СНАР.
d
12. VERCINGETORIX having notice of his ap-
proach, broke up the fiege, and marched directly to meet
him. CESAR was refolved to take in Neuvye, a town
belonging to the country of Berry, which lay in his road;
but the people ſent embaſſadors to defire he would be pleaſed
to pardon them, and preferve their lives. That he might
ufe the fame diſpatch, in this as he did in all his other tranf-
actions, he granted their addrefs, on condition they ſhould
deliver up their horfes, arms, and fend him hoftages. Part
of the hoſtages were already delivered, the reft were prepar-
ing, and fome centurions with a ſmall party were admitted
to fearch the city for arms and horfes; when the befieged
defcrying the cavalry of VERCINGETORIX at ſome diſtance,
which marched before the reft of the army, and hoping
they came to their affiftance, immediately ſet up a fhout,
repaired to their arms, fhut the gates, and afcended the
walls but the centurions that were in the town, perceiv
ing by the noife, that the Gauls had fome new defign, drew
their fwords, and having poffeffed the gates, retreated with
all their men in fafety to the camp.
Noviodunum. CESAR mentions four feveral towns of the fame name;
one in Soiffon, which moſt people take for Noïon, but monfieur SANSON
calls it Soiffon SCALIGER cannot believe that any body ever found the true
name for it yet. Another town of this name in Autun, upon the river
Loire, all people expound Nevers: this we are now talking of, SANSON calls
Neuve ; and the fourth, Noviodunum Diablintum, he applies to Nogent le
Rotrou, the chief village of Perch, on the river Huyflen,
13. CÆSAR
Book VII.
135
COMMENTARIES.
13. CAESAR immediately drew out the cavalry to en- WAR IN
gage the enemy's horfe, and finding his men began to give GAUL.
ground, detached about 400 German horfe to affift them :
the Gauls not able to ſuſtain the affault, loft many of their
party, and being routed, fled for fafety to their army. Up-
on this defeat, the befieged again defpairing, feized all thoſe
perſons who had been inftrumental in raiſing the mob on
the late occafion, fent them prifoners to CESAR, and de-
livered themſelves up to his mercy. This affair difpatch- Cæfar takes
ed, CESAR marched towards Bourges, the capital town Neuvye, and
of Berry, fituate in a plentiful foil; not doubting but he marches
fhould quickly reduce the whole country, when he had to Bourges.
made himſelf maſter of the ſtrongeſt town in that ſtate.
CHAP. VII.
from thence
14. VERCINGETORIX having received fo ma- Vercingeto-
ny loffes fucceffively, as thofe of Sens, Orleans, and Neu-rix fummons
vye, fummoned a council; where he told his countrymen,
a council.
They must now think of making war after a quite dif His fpeech.
ferent manner than formerly; that they muft do their ut-
moſt to intercept the Roman convoys and foragers; that
the ſeaſon of the year would be affiftant to them in this en-
terprize, for it being too early to cut corn in the fields,
the enemy would be forced, in difperfed bodies, to feek
for proviſions in the villages, where they might eafily de-
feat them with the cavalry. That they must not fet a greater
value on their goods than their lives, for it was abfolutely
neceflary all the houfes and villages round fhould be burnt,
to prevent the enemy's foraging; and as for themſelves,
it was but reaſonable they fhould be ſupply'd by the coun-
tries they defended: this counfel once put in practice, the
Romans muft either be obliged to ftarve, or forage at a
great diſtance from their camp with infinite danger. That
it would be the fame thing in effect, whether they defeat-
ed them, or intercepted their convoys, for being deprived
of thofe, they could not long fubfift. And further he de-
clared, all thoſe towns ſhould be reduced to afhes, whofe
artificial or natural fortifications could not preſerve them
from falling into the enemy's hands, left they ſhould be a
refuge to thoſe who were afraid of the perils of war, or the
Romans fhould furnish themſelves from thence with forage
and plunder. For though this might appear a harſh reſo-
lution, yet they ought to confider how much better it was
K 4
to
136
C. J. CÆSA R'S
ral more in
other places.
Book VII.
WAR IN to comply with his advice, than to fuffer themſelves to be
GAUL. put to the fword, and their wives and children to be made
flaves, the unavoidable fate of the conquer'd."
Upon his ad-
vice zo ci- 15. His opinion was approved of, and in one day above
ties in Berry twenty cities of Berry were burnt; the like was done in
burnt: feve- other countries; in fine, nothing but confiragation was to
be ſeen on all fides; which though the natives beheld with
fome regret, yet they flattered themſelves with hopes, that
they ſhould foon obtain the victory, and recover all they
Debate whe- had loft. The fate of Bourges was folemnly debated in
ther Bourges council, whether it fhould be burnt, or defended; the peo-
burnt or no : ple of Berry moft humbly petitioned that they might not
carried in be obliged to put fire with their own hands to one of the
the negative,
moſt beautiful cities of Gaul, which ferved as well for a
defence, as ornament to their country; eſpecially fince it
might be ſo eaſily maintained, for nature had fortified the
place on all fides, with a river and a marfh, except at one
narrow paffage. VERCINGETORIX at first oppoſed them,
but at length being moved by their prayers, and the gene-
rous compaffion of the army, complied with their defires,
and fent a garrifon to defend the town.
should be
Vercingeto-
towards
Bourges;
encamps
within fif
teen miles
CHA P. VIII.
16. THIS affair determined, he followed CASAR by
rix marches fmall marches, till he arrived within fifteen miles of Bour-
ges,
where he chofe a place fortified with woods and marſhes
to encamp in he had hourly intelligence by his ſcouts of
the condition of Bourges, and diſpatched fuch orders thi-
ther as he thought convenient. He kept a conftant watch
upon the convoys of our provifions, which he frequently
cut off, when neceffity obliged us to feek for them at too
great a diftance from the camp, and though we took all
the care imaginable to prevent his deſigns, by varying con-
tinually our ſeaſons and places of foraging.
of it.
Cæfar fets
17. CESAR having encamped on that fide where the
down before marth and river had left a narrow accefs to the town, be-
Bourges.
gan to raiſe a mount, to prepare his penthoufes, and erce
two turrets, for the nature of the place prevented any cir-
cumvallation. He gave continual orders to thofe of Au-
tun and Bourbonne to fupply him with provifions; but the
firſt of theſe were fo negligent, they did him no great fer-
vice, and the other, having but a fmall and poor country,
quickly confumed all the corn in their province. Thus
the Autunois taking no care to perform his orders, the Bour
bonnois
Book VII. COMMENTARIES.
137
The Ro-
Cæfar offer
bonnois being poor, and the country round about laid waſte WAR IN
by the enemy, the army was fo ftreighten'd for want of GAUL.
corn feveral days together, that they were obliged to fub-
fift only upon the cattle, which the foragers had brought mans want
in from the villages a great diftance from the camp: yet provisions,
not a man was heard to utter any complaint unworthy the
dignity of the Roman empire, or the glory they had obtain-
ed in their former victories; nay, though CESAR himſelf
vifited all the legions in the works, and proffer'd to break to quit the
up the fiege, if they found the fatigue too great to be en- fiege.
The foldiers
dured; yet they all defired, he would not entertain any wer
thoughts of that nature; for as they had hitherto behaved
themſelves fo well under his command, as to meet with
no difgrace, but to effect every thing they attempted, fo
now they would not make an ignominious retreat, and
quit the fiege; for they were refolved to endure any hard-
ſhips, rather than not revenge the maffacre of the Roman
citizens at Orleans." The fame thing they faid to the tri-
bunes and centurions, begging them to affure the general
of their refolutions.
CHAP. IX.
removes
with his
18. WHEN our turrets approached the walls, CESAR Vercingeto-
rix decamps,
had notice that VERCINGETORIX, having conſumed all
the forage round about his camp, had removed nearer nearer Bour-
Bourges, and was gone out with a party of cavalry and ges;marches
fuch light infantry as ufed to fight amongst the horfe, to with
cavalry to
lie in ambuſcade for our foragers: whereupon CESAR attack the
marched privately about mid-night towards the enemy's Roman fo-
camp, where he arrived the next morning early. The ragers;
Gauls were foon informed by their fcouts of CÆSAR's Cæfar
approach; wherefore having hid their baggage and carri- marches.
ages in the thickeſt part of the wood, they drew themſelves directly to
up on an open hill; which CESAR perceiving, command-
ed his foldiers to difpofe of their baggage, and ftand to
their arms.
whereupon
his camp.
a hill fur-
19. The poft which the enemy had poffefs'd was a gen- The enemy
the rifing ground, furrounded almoft on all fides by a dan- draw them-
gerous morafs, about fifty foot over. Having lodged them- felves up on
felves on this hill, and broke down all the bridges, they rounded by
confided in the fituation of the place, difpofed themſelves a morals.
according to their feveral countries, and fent fmall parties
to guard all the fords and avenues; refolving, if the Ro-
mans ſhould attempt to force their way, to pour down
upon:
138
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR IN upon them from the higher ground, and attack them whilft
GAUL. they were labouring through the mud. Any one that faw the
TheRomans
ſmall diſtance between the two armies, would think the ene-
my offered battle on equal terms; but when he confidered
the difadvantage of the place, he would fee theſe feeming
advances were nothing elfe but art and oftentation. How-
ever, the Romans were fo inraged to fee the enemy durft
confront them at ſo ſmall a diſtance, that they impatiently
are impati- defired the fign of battle: "But CAESAR informed them
ent of the how many brave lives that victory would coft him; and
fince they were fo ready to undertake any danger for his
glory, he ſhould think himſelf the moſt ungrateful man in
the world, if he did not fet a greater value on their fafety
than his own." Thus having moderated their defirę, he
returned to the camp, and gave ſuch further orders as were
neceffary for carrying on the fiege.
battle.
Cæfar's
fpeech to
them.
Vercingeto-
CHA P. X.
20. VERCINGETORIX, on his return, was accufed
rix impeach-of treaſon, for having moved his camp nearer than he ought
ed of trea- to the Romans, for marching away with all the cavalry,
fon.
leaving the army without a comma..der, and giving CÆSAR
fo favourable an opportunity to attack them: that this was
done from a premeditated deſign, and with a view to receive
the kingdom of Gaul rather from his hands than from their
election. To which articles of impeachment he anſwered,
His aniver. That he decamped at their defire, for want of forage:
that he had lodged himſelf nearer the Romans, being induced
by the place, the natural fortifications of which were fuf-
ficient to defend it that there was no occafion for caval-
ry in a morafs, but they might have been uſeful in the
place he carried them to that he had left no officer to
command them, left the foldiers fhould have forced him to
engage the enemy, which he knew they were all inclined
to, the effeminacy of their minds making them impatient
of further labour: that if the Romans had happened to come
during his abfence, he fuppofed they were obliged to For-
tune for directing them; but if any perfon had invited them
thither, they ought to return him thanks, for giving them
an opportunity of beholding the fmallneſs of the enemy's
number from the rifing ground, and from thence learning to
deſpiſe their efforts; who, for fear of engaging the Gauls,
had made an ignominious retreat. That he fcorned to ac-
cept a kingdom from CESAR's gift, which he could obtain
by
Book VII. COMMENTARIES.
139.
•
by victory, as he and all the Gauls were now fufficiently WAR IN
convinced: however, he was willing to furrender the com- GAUL.
mand they had invefted him with, if they did not think
the advantages they received from his conduct fufficiently
repaid the honours he received: and, fays he, that you may
be perfuaded of my fincerity, hear the Roman foldiers them-
felves." Then producing fome fervants, who had been
taken, not many days before, while they attended our His ftratas
foragers, and had fince been kept fafting in irons, and in-gem.
ftructed what anfwers they fhould make to the queſtions
afk'd them; they declared, " They were legionary fol-
diers that being driven by hunger, they privately ftole out
of the camp, to try if they could get any corn or cattle in
the fields that the whole army fuffered under the fame
want that every man was grown feeble, and unable to en-
dure fatigue: wherefore CESAR had refolved, if he could
not make himſelf mafter of the town within three days, to
quit the fiege.
Thefe, faid VERCINGETORIX, are the advantages you
receive from the man you have accuſed of treaſon, by
whofe management, without the lofs of your blood, you
behold fo powerful and victorious an army almoft confumed
by famine; who has likewife provided, that no country
fhall receive them, when they fhall bafely endeavour to
fave themſelves by flight.
>>
ed, and com-
21. At this the whole army gave a ſhout, and, after the He is acquit
faſhion of their country, claſhed their arms, as they always mended by
do when they approve the harangue; proclaiming VER- the whole
CINGETORIX for a great and faithful commander, whofe army..
conduct could not be excelled. 'Twas refolved that 10000
chofen men, pick'd out of the army, fhould throw them-
felves into Bourges; for fince they believed the whole fuc-
cefs of the war depended on the preſervation of that town,
they would not rely intirely upon the people of Berry for
the publick fafety.
CHAP.
XI.
of the be-
fieged.
22. THE wonderful. application of our foldiers de-The industry
feated all the endeavours of the Gauls, tho' they are a
very induſtrious and ingenious people at imitating any ma-
chine they have feen. They hindered our hooks from do-
ing execution on the walls, by catching hold of them with
ropes, and pulling them with their engines into the town;
our mount they undermined with the greater dexterity, as
their
140
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR
Book VII.
IN their iron works had made them excellent in that art,
GAUL. They erected towers on every part of their walls, which
they covered with hides; and made frequent fallies day and
night, either to fet fire to our mount, or difturb our works;
they daily increafed their towers to an equal height with
ours; and caft fuch plenty of fharp ftakes hardened in the
fire, with fcalding pitch, and ftones of a prodigious
weight into our trenches, that they prevented us from ap-
proaching their walls.
How the
their cities.
霉
​23. Moſt of the cities in Gaul build their walls after the
Gauls build fame manner. They lay along on the ground two ſtrait
the walls of beams, at two feet diſtance, parallel to each other, which
they bind together on the infide, and cover the outſide with
earth. The interftices between the beams they fill with
large ftones, cemented with mortar; over which another
row is carried on in like manner, that when the next fu-
perior beams are laid on them, they may not touch the
inferior, but an uniform diftance be preferved by an equal
and artificial layer of wood and ſtones, continuing the fame
method till they have raifed the wall to fuch a height as
they think convenient. This way of building is as useful
as beautiful; for as the variety and equal intermixture of
the materials is pleaſing to the eye, fo the ſtone is proof
againſt fire, and the beams againſt the battering ram; for
being faſtened within the town by continual planks of forty
feet long, they can neither be broke through, nor dif
jointed.
The indufry
CHA P. XII.
24. THOUGH the foldiers met with fo many diffi-
of the Ro- culties in the fiege, though they were incommoded with the
man foldiers. dirt, cold, and perpetual rains; yet by inceffant labour they
furmounted all thefe inconveniencies; and in twenty-five
days compleated a mount 330 feet broad, and eighty feet
high. When it almoft touched the walls, CÆSAR, accord-
ing to his cuftom, attending the works, and encouraging
the foldiers to loſe no time, about three in the morning per-
ceived the mount began to fmoak; for the enemy having
The beficg- undermined and put fire to it, fetting up a fhout on all
parts of the wall, made a vigorous fally from two feveral
ports; fome caft fire-brands and combuftible matter upon
make a vi- the mount, fome pitch, and fuch other materials as might
Lorous fally. ferve to encreafe the flame; fo that we hardly knew whi-
ther to fend affiftance first; but CÆSAR had taken care
ed let the
mount on
fire, and
}
}
4
to
Book VII.
(
COMMENTARIES.
141
to have a conftant out-guard of two legions, who relieved WAR IN
thoſe that wrought in the trenches by turns; fo fome im- GAUL.
mediately confronted thoſe that fallied out of the town,
and others were employed in drawing off the towers, and
cutting the mount, whilft the whole army endeavoured to
extinguiſh the fire.
25. The diſpute continued very warm all the reſt of
the night, and the enemy were ſtill in hopes of victory,
becauſe the ſheds of the turrets were burnt, nor could our
foldiers manage them whilft they were expofed to the ene-
my's fhot wherefore they fent freſh fupplies continually
to relieve the weary, thinking the fate of Gaul depended
on that critical minute. During this conflict there hap- Four Canis
pened a memorable action, which I muft not omit: One fucceffively
maintain the
of the befieged, having planted himſelf before the gate,
ſame poft til!
caft balls of pitch and tallow with his hands to increase the
fire of the turrets, till being wounded on his right-fide, killed, and
with an arrow ſhot from a fcorpion, he expired in the place: others do the
like till they
the man that ſtood next fupply'd his poft, till he met with
are bearen
the fame fate; then fucceeded a third, and after him a back into
fourth nor was the place left vacant, till the fire of the the town.
mount was extinguished, the enemy on all fides repulfed,
and the fight at an end.
CHA P. XIII.
they are all
the town,
26. THE Gauls having effay'd all methods in vain,
the next day, in obedience to VERCINGETORIX's com-
mands, began to confult about leaving the town; which
they hoped they might do without much damage, by the fa-
vour of the night, becauſe they had no great journey to
their camp, and the moraſs which lay between would pre-
vent the Romans purfuit. Night came, and the befieged The befieg'd
were preparing for their intended march, when the wo- defign to quit
men, running out into the ftreets, flung themſelves weeping but are pre-
at their huſbands feet, and befought them that they would vented by
not abandon their wives and children, whom nature had their wives.
form'd incapable of enduring the fatigues of flight, as a
prey to the enemy: but when they found them inflexible
(for ſelf-preſervation and fear feldom admit of pity) they
began to encreafe their cries, and acquaint the Romans with
their huſbands defign; whereupon apprehending the paffages -
might be poffeffed by our cavalry, they altered their re-
folution.
27. The next day CÆSAR having advanced the towers,
and given the necellary orders for carrying on the ſiege,
there
.142
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN there fell an extraordinary rain, which he thought a con-
GAUL. venient time for effecting his defign, becauſe he obſerved
the watch on the walls but negligently kept; wherefore he
commanded the foldiers not to labour too hard at the works:
the legions being covered by the vines, he encouraged them
to reap the fruit of their labours, and having promiſed a
reward to the firſt that ſcaled the walls, they flew like
feale the lightening from all parts, and foon poffeffed themſelves of
The Romans
walls.
the town.
28. The enemy were extreamly furpriz'd, and being
forced from their turrets and battlements, drew themſelves
up in a triangle in the market-place, and fuch other ſtreets
as were broad enough for that purpoſe; that if the Romans
ſhould come to attack them, they might better maintain
their ground, when drawn up in order of battle; but per-
ceiving no body came near them, and that the walls were
poffeffed by the Romans, they began to apprehend their
flight might be prevented. Upon which they flung down
their arms, and ran to the fartheft part of the town, where
preffing forward to make their efcape through a narrow
gate, they retarded each other, and were killed by the
foldiers, as thoſe who got out were by the cavalry; for no
body minded the plunder, but enraged by the maffacre at
Storm the Orleans, and the fatigue they had endured in the fiege,
put the be- put all to the fword, without reſpect to age or difference
Lieged to the of fex. So that out of 40000 ſcarce 800 eſcaped to VER-
fword. CINGETORIX, who upon the firft alarm fled out of the
40000 only town. Thefe he privately received in the dead of night,
300 efcape fending out his fervants, and the chief noblemen of each
to Vercinge- province, to meet and conduct them to thoſe parts of the
licy in recei-camp, where their feveral countrymen were quartered, to
ving them. prevent any mutiny that might ariſe from the difguft of the
army upon their return.
town, and
Out of
torix: his po-
upon the lofs
of the town.
الله
CHAP. XIV.
29. THE next day, VERCINGETORIX, calling a
His fpeech council of war, comforted the Gauls, telling them, "They
had no reaſon to be difcouraged at their late lofs, fince
the Romans had not fucceeded by their valour, but ſkill
in befieging of towns, which they had no experience in:
that conftant ſucceſs was not to be expected in war; and
for his part, they all could bear him witnefs, it was con-
trary to his opinion that Bourges fhould be defended:
wherefore this lofs was to be imputed to the folly of the
people of Berry, and the too great indulgence of the army;
however
Book VII,
143
COMMENTARIES.
however he would take care to repair the damage, by a far WAR IN
greater advantage; for he would undertake, the other coun- GAUL.
tries of Gaul, which had hitherto ftood neuter, fhould en-
ter into the grand alliance; that the kingdom of Gaul
fhould join in the fame defign, whofe force united, the
whole world would not be able to withſtand: that he had
almoft brought this affair to a happy conclufion; but in the
mean time he thought it convenient for the publick fafety,
they ſhould fortify their camp, to defeat any fudden ex-
curfions of the enemy.'
30. This harangue was not ungrateful to the Gauls, ef- Vercingeto-
pecially fince they faw their general was neither dejected rix's credir
increaſed by
after fo great a lofs, nor endeavoured to abfcond from pub- the lofs of
lick view; nor did it a little add to the reputation of his Bourges.
conduct, that as it was his opinion Bourges fhould be burnt,
ſo he was the firſt that had adviſed them to defert the place;
wherefore as ill fuccefs generally eclipſes the credit of other
commanders, fo his, on the contrary, daily encreaſed with
his loffes they flattered themſelves on his affirmation that
the other ſtates of Gaul would join with them, and began in the
to fortify their camp, which had never before been
tiſed by the Gauls: being reduced to fo humble a
tion, that though they were not inured to labour, yet
patiently fuffered whatever tasks were impofed upon them. did it.
CHAP. XV.
On his ad-
vice
prac- Gauls fortify
condi- their camp;
they they ever
the first time
other coun-
31. VERCINGETORIX did not defign to be worfe He endea-
than his promiſe, he took abundance of pains to draw the vours to per-
other countries of Gaul into the fame alliance, endeavour- fuade all the
ing to gain the noblemen of each ſtate, by prefents and tries of Gaul
promiſes; for this purpoſe he made choice of the beft nego- to revolt.
tiators, whofe craft or intereft might effect his deſigns: for
thofe that had eſcaped from Bourges, he provided arms and Arms and
cloathes the
cloathing; and to repair the lofs he received there, gave besieged that
orders that each of the revolted provinces fhould furnish him efcaped from
with a certain number of recruits, to be fent to his camp Bourges.
by a day prefixed; and he commanded them to levy all
Raifes new
the archers in their country, whereof they have plenty in levies.
Gaul, for his fervice; by which means he foon recovered
what he loft at Bourges. In the mean time THEUTO- Theutoma-
MATUS, fon of OLLOVICO king of Agen, whofe father tus, king of
had formerly been ftyled friend by the fenate of Rome, ges or Agen,
came over to him with a confiderable number of horfe, comes over
which he brought from Gafcoigne.
CHAP.
the Nitiobri-
to him.
144
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CHA P. XVI.
WAR IN
32. CÆSAR ftay'd feveral days at Bourges, to refreſh
GAUL. his army after their late labour, and want of provifions;
for he found plenty of corn in the town: the winter was
now almoſt ſpent, and the ſeaſon invited him to take the
field; wherefore he refolved to follow the enemy, to try
whether he could draw them out of the woods and marches,
or have an opportunity of befieging them; when the prin-
Cæfar is in- cipal noblemen of Autun came to befeech him that he would
formed of affift their country, which was in a dangerous condition
the difputes
în Autun at that juncture; for as formerly by the cuftom of Autun
about the fu- they were always governed by a fingle annual magiſtrate,
preme magi- whofe election invefted him with regal power; now two
tracy,
pretended a title to the fame office, both affirming, they
were lawfully created: one of theſe pretenders was CON-
VICTOLITANIS, an illuftrious youth of great intereft;
COTUS the other, of an ancient family, great authority,
and powerful in relations, whofe brother VEDELIACUS
had diſcharged the fame office but the year before: that
the whole country was up in arms, the fenate and people
divided, and, ſhould the difpute continue, it was much to
be feared a civil war would enfue: to prevent which fatal
confequences, they relied entirely on his care and authority.
33. Though CESAR thought it inconvenient to leave
the war, and the enemy behind him; yet confidering what
effects might arife from fuch divifions, left fo powerful and
firm allies to the people of Rome, whom he had always fa
voured and enriched, fhould fall out amongst themſelves,
and that party which depended lefs on him, pray affiſtance
from VERCINGETORIX, he thought it necefiary to put a
ftop to the progrefs of theſe diforders; and becauſe the
chief magiftrates of Autun are prohibited going out of the
country, left they fhould detract from the honour of their
office, he refolved to go himfelf in perfon thither; and
Wherefore fummoned both the fenate and candidates to attend him at
Cæfar goes Decife: almoft the whole country came thither, and be-
to Autun ing fatisfied that corus had been clandeftinely chofen, by
the candi- a few electors, at an improper time and place, and declared
dates to at-magiftrate by his own brother, contrary to the law (which
does not only prohibit two perfons of the fame family
from executing the fupreme office of magiftracy, whilft
he who firft obtained it is alive, but even from fitting in
Summons
tend him at
Decetia
Decife.
or
the'
Book VII.
145
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
the ſenate at a time) he obliged him to quit his pretenfions, WAR IN
and gave ſentence in favour of CONVICTOLITANIS, who
had been created by the prieſts, according to the cuftom of
the country, when the place was vacant.
where he de-
crees in fa-
againſt Co-
tus's pre-
the Autunois
34. Having accommodated this affair, he defired the vour of Con-
Autunois to lay aſide all thoughts of faction, and give him victolitanis,
what affiftance they could towards carrying on the prefent tus's
war; that, Gaul being fubdued, they might receive thoſe tenfions.
rewards their loyalty deferved: he defired them immediate- Then orders
ly to furniſh him with all their cavalry, and 10000 foot, to furniſh
that he might difpoſe them into garrisons to levy contribu- him with
tions: he divided his army into two parts; four legions, 10000 foot,
with half of the cavalry, under the command of LABIE- cavalry. He
NUS, he detached to Sens and Paris; and with the other fends Labie-
nus to Paris,
four marched himſelf to Cleremont, on the river Allier, in marches
the country of Auvergne; which VERCINGETORIX hav- himſelf to
ing notice of, broke down all the bridges of the river, and Cleremont.
marched upon the banks on the other fide.
CHA P. XVII.
and all their
the Allier.
35. BOTH armies continually in view, encamped
almoft over-againft each other; and the enemy's fcouts
were fo difperfed, that it was impoffible for the Romans to
throw a bridge over the river: CESAR was very uneafy, Cæfar's ftra-
left he ſhould loſe the greateſt part of the fummer for want tagem to pais
of an opportunity to pass the Allier, which is never ford-
able till towards autumn; to prevent which inconvenience,
he removed his camp into a woody place, over-againſt one
of thoſe bridges which the enemy had cut down the day
following, concealing himſelf with two legions, he ſent
away the reſt of his army, with all their baggage, as ufual;
having made a draught of four cohorts out of each of his le-
gions, that the number of them might ſtill appear complete: It takes ef◄
he commanded the army to march as far as they could, and
when he computed, by the time of the day, they might be
encamping, he began to rebuild a bridge upon the fame
piles the lower part of which the enemy had left ftanding; and
having foon completed his work, and marched his legions
over, chofe a convenient place to encamp in, and recalled the
reſt of his army: whereupon VERCINGETORIX, that he
might not be obliged to fight againſt his will, went a great
way forward by long marches.
L
36. From
fect.
146
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Cæfar arrives
at Clere-
mont.
clofe under
the walls.
WAR IN
36. From thence in five days march CESAR arrived
GAUL at Cleremont, where, after a ſmall ſkirmiſh with the
enemy's cavalry, upon taking a view of the town, he de-
ſpaired of reducing it by ſtorm, nor did he think it conve-
nient to make any ſteps towards invefting the place, before
he had furniſhed himſelf with fuch proviſions as he had occa-
Vercingeto- fion for. But VERCINGETORIX having encamped on the
rix encamps hill clofe by the town, difpofed all his army according to
their ſeveral diftricts, at a ſmall diftance from each other,
and having poffeffed all the hills round about, made a
formidable appearance: he obliged the chief noblemen of
every ſtate, whom he made his council, to attend his le-
vee every morning early, either to confult or receive fuch
orders as he thought neceffary; never omitting a day with-
out fending his horfe, intermixed with archers, to fkirmiſh
with our cavalry, that he might be acquainted with each
man's particular merit. There was a rifing ground that
joined to the foot of the mountain the town was built on,
excellently well fortified by nature, and difficult of accefs
on all fides; which if our men could gain, they were in
hopes to cut off the water, and prevent the enemy from
foraging fo freely as before. Upon this place the Gauls
had only pofted a flender guard; wherefore CAESAR, leaving
Cæfar gains his camp about midnight, defeated the party that was lodg-
a hill of ad- ed there, before they could be reinforced from the town,
J
vantage,
poffeffed himſelf of the hill, and having left two legions in
the place, drew a line of communication, by a double
trench twelve foot broad, from the leffer to the larger
camp, that the foldiers might pafs fafely from one to the
other, without any annoyance from the enemy.
CHAP. XVIII.
37. WHILST affairs were in this pofture at Clere-
Convictoli- mont, CONVICTOLITANIS of Autun, to whom CÆSAR
tanis per-
had lately decreed the magiſtracy, being corrupted by the
fuades Lita-
vicus and his people of Auvergne, endeavoured to draw in fome of the
brothers to young nobility; the chief of theſe were LITAVICUS and his
rebel.
brothers, gentlemen of the greateſt family in the country,
with whom he divided his bribes: "He put them in mind
they were born free, and deftined by nature for empire:
that Autun alone held the balance of victory, for all the
other provinces were reftrained by her example; but ſhould
the once declare, the Romans would have no footing left
in
Book VII.
147
COMMENTARIES.
treafon and
diffimula-
in the country for his own part, he must confefs he had WAR IN
lately received a favour from CÆSAR, but fuch an one as GAUL.
the merits of his caufe might challenge; yet he did not
think himſelf obliged to fhew his gratitude at the expence
of his country's liberty; nor give any reafon, why the Au-
tunois fhould fubmit their laws and cuftoms to the arbitra-
tion of CÆSAR, any more than the Romans theirs to the
Autunois." His authority, and the rewards he propoſed,
foon prevailed; LITAVICUS with his brothers agreed to
undertake the buſineſs; but firft it was thought proper to
confult about the means for accompliſhing their defigns;
for they were fatisfied the country would not eaſily be in-
duced to declare war againſt the Romans: wherefore it
Litavicus
was refolved that LITAVICUS's brothers fhould be fent be- made Gene-
fore to CASAR, that himſelf ſhould have the command ofral of the
10000 foot;
the 10,000 foot, which the Autunois were to furniſh; and his brothers
the reſt of the affair fhould be managed as occafion offered. fent before to
38. Accordingly, having received the command of the Cæfar.
army, and marched within thirty miles of Cleremont, LI-
TAVICUS on a fudden called the foldiers together, and
with tears in his eyes fpoke to this effect: "Gentlemen, Litavicus's
whither are we going? all our horfe, all our nobility are
already flain; EPOREDORIX and VIRDUMARUS, men oftion.
the beſt quality in our country, are accuſed of treafon by
the Romans, and put to death unheard: but I refer you to
thoſe who have cfcaped the flaughter, for further informa-
tion, fince grief for my departed brothers and kinfien
ſtops my utterance.” At that, fome inftruments, who had
been before inftructed what to fay, were produced; who
joined in the fame ftory with LITAVICUS, and informed
the army of the particulars; that the Autunois horſe had
been put to the fword, for holding correfpondence with
thofe of Auvergne, as the Romans pretended; that they
had hid themſelves in the croud, and were faved by flight
from the flaughter. Upon this advice the whole army were
not a little diſturbed, and intreated LITAVICUS that he
would contrive fome means for their fafety: he told them,
"The preſent affair did not admit of any debate; that
there was no other way left but to march directly to Clere- perfuades the
mont, and join the Auvergnois; for, added he, it is not forces under
to be doubted but the Romans, having already committed his com-
ſo barbarous an action, will make what hafte they can to bel,
put us likewiſe to the fword; but if we have any courage
left, let us revenge the death of cur injured countrymen
L 2
upon
Litavicus
mand to re-
148
C. J. CÆSA R'S
GAUL.
Book VII.
WAR IN upon theſe villains:" Whereupon producing the Roman
citizens who had taken the opportunity of their convoy,
they robbed them of a confiderable quantity of corn, and
put them to a barbarous death; then immediately diſpatched
couriers to all parts of Autun, to divulge the fame ftory,
about the death of the noblemen and cavalry, and to adviſe
them to vindicate their wrongs, as they had done.
CHA P. XIX.
39. EPOREDORIX and VIRDUMARUS of Au-
tun, one of an illuftrious houſe and confiderable intereſt in
his country; the other of equal age and authority, though
not fo well defcended, whom CAESAR, on the recommend-
ation of DIVITIACUS, had raiſed to the higheſt dignities,
being particularly fummoned, came alone with the horſe.
Theſe two always rival'd each other for the precedence;
in the late difpute about the magistracy, one eſpouſed the
cauſe of CONVICTOLITANIS, the other that of COTUS.
Eporedorix The former having notice of LITAVICUS's defign, came
acquaints to CESAR about midnight, and diſcovered the plot, In-
Litavicus's treating him not to fuffer the minds of a people who were
defign.
his ancient friends, to be alienated by the treafonable prac-
tices of fome young noblemen; for, he forefaw, that if LI-
TAVICUS went over to the enemy, with fo confiderable
an army, their feveral relations would think themſelves
obliged to join their defence, and confequently the af-
fair must have a powerful influence over the whole
country.
Cæfar with
fore they
mont.
Whereupon
40. CESAR was greatly furprized to hear that his fa-
Cæfar mar- vourite Autunois fhould think of a revolt; therefore he im-
ehes to inter- mediately drew out four light-arm'd legions, with all the
cept the Au-
tunois, be- cavalry; and not having time to contract his camp into a
narrower ſpace (becauſe the whole fuccefs of his defign de-
reach Clere- pended on diſpatch) left in garriſon lieutenant C. FABIUS
with two legions. He gave orders before he fet out for
apprehending LITAVICUS's brothers, but found they had
not long before gone over to the enemy. Having encou-
He meets raged his foldiers chearfully to endure the fatigue of fo ne-
the Autu- ceffary a march, they purfued their journey with great ea-
nois; they gernefs for xxv miles, till they arrived within fight of the
Autunois; then he detached the horfe before, to retard
they find
their error. their march, commanding them not to put any man to the
fword:
Book VII.
149
COMMENTARIES.
fword and ordered E POREDORIX with VIRDUMARUS, WAR IN
whom they believed to be killed, to go along with the ca- GAUL.
valry, and fhew themſelves to their countrymen the Autu-
nois; who finding their miſtake, difcovering LITAVICUS'S
deceit, held out their hands to fignify their defire to fur-
render, and having laid down their arms, began to beg
their lives: LITAVICUS in the mean time, with all his Litavicus
dependants, who are not permitted by the cuftom of Gaulefcapes to
to defert their patron in the greateſt dangers, eſcaped to
Cleremont.
Cleremont.
the Gauls
41. CESAR immediately fent embaffadors to Autun, to
acquaint the people how merciful he had been to their
countrymen, whom by martial law he might have put to
the fword; then having allow'd his army three hours time
to reft, he marched towards Cleremont, and had almoſt
paſſed one half of the journey, when a party of horſe from Cæfar has
C. FABIUS came to give him notice how much danger the notice that
camp was in, being affaulted by the enemy on all fides, attack his
who when their forces fainted, ftill fupplied their places with camp.
eh men; whilft the Romans with a large camp, and
ut few foldiers to defend it, were obliged, though never
ſo weary, to maintain their ground: that they had already
received many wounds from the enemy's darts and arrows,
though their engines had done them good fervice: that FA-
BIUS, at their departure, had fhut up two gates of the
camp, encreaſed the height of the rampier, and prepared
for the next day's affault: whereupon CESAR made what
hafte he could to his relief, and arrived at the camp before relief.
fun-rife.
He makes
hafte to its
CHAP. XX.
42. IN the mean while the Autunois, receiving LITA- The Autu-
VICUS's news, ftaid not for farther confirmation; but fome nois on Lita-
prompted by avarice, others by revenge and rafhnefs, to vicus's mef-
which they are fo much addicted, that they take every arms, plun-
fage take
thing for certain which they hear by report, plundered the der the Ro-
Roman citizens, killed ſome, and fold others for flaves: man citizens,
nor did CONVICTOLITANIS a little foment their fury,
that by plunging them into fome defperate action, fhame
might continue what madnefs began. They enticed CAIUS befiege A-
ARISTIUS, the tribune, who was marching to his legion, riftius.
and feveral Roman merchants, to quit Chalons, giving
L 3
them
150
Book VII.
C. J. CESAR'S
>
WAR IN them their parole that they would not difturb them in their
GAUL. paffage; but they fet upon them on the road, robb'd them
But finding
were in Ca-
they fend
embaffadors
to him to
of their baggage, befieged thofe night and day who made
oppofition; and many being killed on both fides, they ex-
cited ſtill greater numbers to take arms.
43. But being informed that all their foldiers were in CA-
their foldiers SAR's power, they ran to ARISTIUS, affured him no-
far's power, thing had been done by publick authority, called thoſe to
account who had feized the effects of the Romans, fe-
quefter'd the eftates of LITAVICUS and his brethren, and
clear them- fent embaſſadors to CESAR, to clear themſelves from the
Lelves, imputation of thefe tumults. All this they did to get their
foldiers releaſed; but being tainted with treafon, loth to
make reftitution of thofe goods which had been divided
amongſt ſo many, and apprehenfive of the punishment they
deferved, they privately confulted about cauying on the
war, and fent embaffadors to the ftates round about, to
defire their affiftance.
Cæfar gives
vourable au-
Though CAESAR was not ignorant of their practices, yet
them a fa- fending for their deputies, in an affable manner he affure
dience. them, that he fhould not entertain an ill opinion of the
country for the diforders the mob had been guilty of, or
bear the lefs affection to the Autunois.
CHAP. XXI.
BEING apprehenfive of fresh commotions in Gaul,
Cæfar de- that he might not be furrounded on all fides in an enemy's
Signs to quit
the fiege of Country, he confulted which way he might quit the fiege
Cleremont. of Cleremont, and join the reft of his army, without giv-
ing the enemy occafion to believe that he fled to avoid
them.
44. Whilft he was meditating on this affair, there fell
out an accident which ſeemed to favour his defign; for go-
ing into the leffer camp to view the works, he obſerved a
hill left naked, which but a few days before had been co-
ver'd all over with the enemy's forces; he wondered what
was the reaſon of their quitting it, and enquiring the cauſe
of the deferters, who daily flock'd in great numbers to our
camp, they all agreed with our ſcouts, that the back of the
hill, from whence lay a paffage to another part of the
town, was an even ground, but woody and narrow that
the enemy were much afraid of lofing this poft, for the
Romans
Book VII.
151
COMMENTARIES.
F
Romans having already made themſelves mafters of one WAR IN
hill, ſhould they obtain this likewife, the Gauls would be GAUL.
almoft furrounded, and cut off from foraging; for which
reaſon VERCINGETORIX had drawn out all his forces to
fortify the paffage.
folves upon
45. CESAR upon this intelligence detached ſeveral ſqua- But first re-
drons of horſe thither at midnight, commanding them to an exploit.
ride up and down the place with as much noife as poffible:
by break of day he caufed a great number of mules and
beaſts of burden to be led out of the camp, and the baggage
to be taken from them; then furniſhing the grooms with
helmets, that they might refemble troopers, he cauſed them
to ride about the hill: with thefe, for the greater fhew, he
mixed a few cavalry, commanding them to make a large
tour about the place. The party was foon defcry'd by the
befieged, for the town commanded a view of the camp,
though they could not perfectly at that distance difcover
what was done after theſe he likewife detached one legion
to the fame place, whom he order'd to hide themfelves in
he woods and lower grounds: this increaſed the jealouſy
he Gauls to fuch a degree, that they immediately drew
out all their forces to maintain the poft. CESAR, per-
ceiving the camp was deferted, caufed his foldiers to march
in fmall parties from the larger to the leffer camp, with
their helmets and colours concealed, that the town might
take no notice of them; then calling his lieutenants toge-
ther, to whom he had committed the charge of each par-
ticular legion, he gave them fuch directions as he thought
convenient: In the first place he order'd them to reſtrain
their foldiers from being carried too far by the defire of fight
or plunder; he acquainted them with the difadvantage of
the place, which nothing but diſpatch could overcome; that
the preſent was an affair which depended more upon op-
portunity than virtue; and giving them the fign to advance,
ſent the Autunois to meet them by another afcent on the
right.
CHAP.
XXII.
46. THE wall of the town lay 1200 paces diftant from
the plain below, without computing the uneven ground
between, and the circuit which was neceffary to be taken
for moderating the fteepness of the afcent, which ftill en-
creaſed our journey. The Gauls about the middle of the
L 4
hill,
152
C. J. CÆSA R'S
TheRomans
hill.
a
Book VII.
WAR IN hill, fo far as the nature of the place would admit, had
GAUL. raiſed a wall fix foot high for a fortification; from the foot
of the hill to this outward wall there was nothing to ob-
take the firft ftruct our paffage, but from thence to the town the upper
wall on the part of the hill was covered all over with little camps 2. So
foon as the fign was given, our men were fo alert in ex-
ecuting their orders, that they quickly pafs'd this fortifica-
tion, and made themſelves mafters of three feveral camps;
which they did with ſo much diſpatch, that THEUTOMA-
Theutoma-TUS, king of Agen, was furpriſed in his tent, as he was
tus narrowly repofing himſelf about noon, and narrowly escaped being
eſcapes being
taken pri- taken; for his horfe was wounded under him, and he fled
away half naked, not having time to drefs himſelf.
Cæfar 47. CESAR having now accompliſhed all he defired,
the commanded a retreat to be founded; whereupon the fol-
tenth legion diers of the tenth legion, who then attended on him †,
halts, but
made a halt; and the other legions, though the intervening
fue their fuc- valley prevented their hearing the fummons, yet were com-
cefs. manded by the tribunes and lieutenants, according to CA-
SAR's inftructions, likewife to halt; but prompted wi
the hopes of a ſpeedy victory, encouraged by the fligh
the enemy, and fluſhed with the remembrance of their for
mer fucceffes, they thought nothing too difficult for their
courage to accompliſh, nor did they defift from the purſuit
ioner.
founds a re-
treat;
the rest pur-
the Romans
1
before they came to the very gates and walls of the town:
The confu- which occafioned fo great a clamour and confufion from all
fion of the parts, that they who were furtheft from the place affaulted,
befieged on believing we had already forced our entrance, left the
approach. town; the matrons caft their cloaths and money o'er the
wall, with naked breafts and extended hands befeeching
the Romans to have mercy on them, and not put women
and children to the fword, as they had done at Bourges;
and ſome of them being let down by their hands, delivered
Lucius Fa-themſelves up to our foldiers. L. FABIUS, a centurion of
rice, which the eighth legion, was fo encouraged by the plunder he got
cofts him at Bourges, that he was heard to fay, no man fhould get
dear. into Cleremont before him; wherefore by the affiſtance of
three foldiers of his maniple he mounted the walls, then
Vercingeto- affifted them one after another to do the like.
rix's party
bius's ava-
He fcales
the walls.
48. In the mean time, they who were gone to defend
their affift- the paffage on the other fide of the town, hearing a noiſe,
return to
ance.
2 Becauſe CÆSAR faid before they were divided into feveral parties, each
country being placed by themfelves.
‡ qua tum erat comitatus. Cod. Carrar. & Lipfius,
and
1
Book VII.
153
COMMENTARIES.
and being informed by ſeveral meffengers that the Romans WAR IN
had taken poffeffion of Cleremont, fending their horſe be- GAUL.
fore, followed after with all expedition; each man as foon
as he arrived there, placed himſelf under the wall, to join
with fuch as had already made head againſt the enemy;
and they foon grew fo numerous, that whereas the matrons,
but the moment before, befought the Romans to be mer-
They affume
ciful to them, now they began to encourage their own fresh cou
party to make a vigorous defence, by producing their rage.
children, and fhewing themfelves with difhevelled hair,
according to the cuſtom of the Gauls.
CHA P. XXIII.
THUS the diſpute became unequal to the Romans as
well in respect to the diſparity of number, as the difad-
vantage of the place; nor was it to be expected, that they
who had already endured fuch a fatigue, ſhould be able to
withſtand thoſe who came freſh to the combat.
49. CÆSAR perceiving that the number of the enemy con-
tinually encreaſed, and being concerned for the danger his fol-
diers were in, fent orders to lieutenant T. SEXTIUS, whom
he had left to guard the leffer camp, immediately to draw
out his cohorts, and poft them at the foot of the hill, over-
againſt the enemy's right wing; that in caſe our men
fhould be routed, he might put a stop to the enemy's pur-
fuit: and he himself marching with one legion, poffefs'd a
place not far from SEXTIUS, where he expected the event¸
of the battle.
cou-
50. The conflict was ſharply maintained on both fides,
the enemy confiding in their poft and numbers, ours in
their courage; when on a fudden the Autunois, whom
CASAR had before ordered to afcend by another way on
the right, to give the enemy a diverfion, were diſcover'd
on the flank of our foldiers, and the reſemblance of their
arms to thoſe of the Gauls, did not a little furpriſe the
Romans; for though their right fhoulders were unco-
vered, the ufual fign of peace, yet our men were appre-
henſive it was now no more than a decoy. At the fame
time L. FABIUS the centurion, and thoſe who had got L. Fabius
into the town with him, being furrounded and killed, were kill'd and
thrown over the wall; and M. PETREIUS, another cen-
turion of the ſame legion, endeavouring to force the gates,
was oppreffed by the enemy's numbers; wherefore deſpair>
ing
thrown over
the wall.
1
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VII.
154
WAR IN ing of fafety for himſelf and his company, who had followed
GAUL. him, he told them, " That fince he could not fave him-
ſelf, he would at leaſt take care of them, whom his thirſt
for glory had brought into that danger, and adviſed them
to make uſe of the opportunity he would procure them;"
then rufhing into the midft of the enemy, having kill'd
two, he drove the reft a little from the gate, and per-
ceiving his men ftrove to affift him, "In vain, ſaid he,
do you endeavour to fave the man whom his blood and
Marcus Pe-ftrength have already forſaken; be gone therefore, whilſt
treius dies you may, and retire to your legion:" then fighting on,
he expired foon after, but purchaſed fafety for his followers
at the expence of his life.
bravely.
The Ro-
51. Our men being attacked on all fides, after the lofs
mans, after of forty-fix centurions, were obliged to quit the place; but
the lofs of 46 the tenth legion, which had been poſted nearer the bottom
and near 700 of the hill, to cover their retreat, ftopped the enemy's ca-
men, are ob- reer, being fuftained by the cohorts of the thirteenth legion,
liged to re- which were drawn out of the leffer camp, and had poffeffed
centurions,
treat.
Speech.
the higher ground. So foon as our army recovered the plain,
they made a ſtand, and faced about to the enemy; upon
which VERCINGETORIX drew off his forces from the foot
of the hill into their camps: this day we loſt almoſt 700
men.
CHAP. XXIV.
Cæfar calls a 52. CÆSAR, the day after, having fummoned the
council, foldiers to attend him, made a fpeech, wherein he con-
makes a demned their eager purfuit, and reprimanded them for
Reprimands prefuming to judge how far they were to go after a retreat
the foldiers was founded, and their officers had commanded them to
for tranfgref- halt: he laid before them the dangers they were liable to
from the diſadvantage of the place, which he was ſo ſenſi-
fing their or-
ders.
ble of at Bourges, that though he furpriſed the enemy there
without either cavalry or a general, yet he thought proper
to forego a certain victory, rather than purchaſe it even at
that ſmall expence which the difficulty of the paffage would
have coft him. He highly applauded their courage, whom
neither the fortifications of the enemy's camp, the height
of the mountain, nor the walls of the town could ftop;
but as much condemned their pride and arrogance, who
fancied themſelves better judges of the probability of victory
and
Book VII.
155
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
and the event of affairs, than their general; for he rather WAR IN
defired to have his foldiers modeft and obedient, than cou-
ragious and daring.
53. In the conclufion of his fpeech, he comforted the
foldiers for the lofs they had received; telling them, they
fhould not be dejected at their late misfortune, which was
to be attributed to the difadvantage of the place, not to
their want of courage. Then defigning, as formerly, to
quit the fiege, he drew his army up in order of battle; but
finding VERCINGETORIX was not diſpoſed to fight him,
after a ſmall and fucceſsful fkirmiſh between the cavalry,
he withdrew into the camp again: the like he did the day with
following; then thinking he had done enough to encourage the enemy's
his own foldiers, and abate the pride of the Gauls, he de- horſe, Cæfar
camped, and marched to Autun: the enemy did not think decamps,
fit to follow us; wherefore having in three days rebuilt the Allier;
bridge cross the Allier, he paffed the river with all his informed by
forces.
After a fuc-
cefsful fkir-
paffes the
is
Virdumarus
and Epore-
Autunois to
54. He was informed by VIRDUMARUS and EPORE-dorix of Li-
DORIX that LITAVICUS was gone with all the cavalry to tavicus's fol-
follicit thoſe of Autun to join the revolted Gauls; that liciting the
therefore it would be abfolutely neceffary for them to goa revolt.
before, that they might prevent fuch attempts, and confirm
the country in their loyalty. Though CESAR was already
convinced of the infidelity of the Autunois, and plainly
forefaw that VIRDUMARUS and EPOREDORIX on their
arrival would but haften the revolt, yet he thought not
proper to detain them, that he might not do any thing
that might reflect on their character, or give them reafon
to believe he fufpected them. At their departure he briefly
enumerated the fervices he had done their country; in
how mean a condition he found them, fhut up within their
walls, robbed of their fields, deprived of their forces, made
tributaries, and obliged to deliver hoftages for their fidelity;
whereas he had raiſed them to fo high a pitch of grandeur,
that they were not only reſtored to their former ftate,
but to a greater height of glory than they ever knew: Then
taking his leave, he difmiffed them.
CHAP. XXV.
Virdumarus
55. NEVERS is a town of Autun, conveniently and Eporedo-
feated on the river Loire: here CASAR had lodged all the rix feize Ne-
hoftages of Gaul, the corn, the publick treafure, his own, vers, put the
and
garrifon to
the word.
156
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VII.
WAR IN and the greateſt part of the army's baggage, and hither he
GAUL. had fent a great number of horfes, which he had bought
Divide the
up in Spain and Italy for the fervice. When EPOREDO-
RIX and VIRDUMARUS arrived at this place, being in-
formed how kindly LITAVICUS had been received at Bi-
bracte, the capital of Autun, that CONVICTOLITANIS, the
chief magiftrate, with the greateft part of the fenate, were
come over to him, and hac fent publick embaſſadors to
VERCINGETORIX to treat cf an alliance, they thought
proper to lay hold of fo advantageous an opportunity ;
wherefore, having put the garrifon of Nevers and the
Roman merchants who refided there to the fword, they
plunder, and divided the money and horſes between them, took care to
fend the hoftages to the magiftrate at Autun, and becauſe
the town was not tenable, left it ſhould be of any uſe to
the Romans, fet it on fire. What corn they had carriage
for, they immediately fent away by water, and flung the
Raife forces, reft into the river, or burnt it; then began to raife forces
and place in the neighbouring countries, difpofed parties for a guard.
banks of the on the banks of the Loire, and difperfed their cavalry all
the country over, to ftrike a terror into the Romans, en-
deavouring to cut off their convoys, and reduce them to
a neceffity of leaving their province: they promiſed them-
felves ſucceſs in this affair, becauſe the late fnow had fo
fwell'd the Loire, that it was not fordable.
burn the
town.
guards on the
Loire,
56. On advice of thefe motions, CASAR thought it high
time to make hafte, and if he must be at the trouble of
building a bridge, refolved to do it ſo quickly, that he
might engage the enemy before they grew ftronger for
he held it by no means convenient to return to the Roman
province, whilſt honour, the mountains of the Cevennes,
and the difficulty of the way oppofed his paffage; befides,
he had a great defire to join the reft of his army under the
command of LABIEN US. Wherefore, beyond all mens
expectation, marching both day and night, he arrived by
long journeys at the Loire; where the cavalry having found
rives at the out as convenient a ford as could be expected for the ſea-
Loire ;
fon, he difpofed them fo as to break the force of the ſtream,
fords the ri- whilſt the foot paffed over the river, which took them up
ver; the e- to the fhoulders, leaving them only the liberty to hold
nemy fly,and their arms above the water. At the first view of the Ro-
on towards mans, the enemy betook themſelves to flight. Thus hav-
Sens. Ing fafely paffed the Loire, obtained a confiderable booty
Cæfar ar-
he marches
of
Book VII.
157
COMMENTARIES.
of corn and cattle in the fields, and refreſhed his army,
he refolved to march into the country of Sens.
CHAP. XXVI.
WAR IN
GAUL.
Paris.
this is the
fame place
57. WHILST CESAR was thus employed, LABIE- Labienus
NUS having left thofe fupplies, which lately came from marches to
Italy, for a guard to his baggage at Sens, marched with
four legions to Paris, which is fituated in an iſland of the
Seine. Upon notice of his arrival, the enemy drew a con-
fiderable number of forces from the neighbouring countries,
which they committed to the charge of CAMULOGENUS
of Eureux; upon whom they conferred that honour for
his fingular ſkill in military affairs, though his age feemed
to have rendered him unfit for the command: He, ob-
ſerving there was a large morafs which joined to the Seine,
and obftructed all the paffages round about, lodged his army
there, deſigning to prevent the Romans croffing the river.
Labienus
58. LABIENUS was no fooner arrived there, but he
furprifesMe-
began to make his approaches, under the fhelter of his lun, Metio-
vines, to fill up the morafs with mould and hurdles, to fedum: for
render the paffage firm; but finding the work very trou-
bleſome, leaving his camp without noife about midnight, with Melio-
he marched the fame way that he came, till he arrived at dunum.
Vide the pre-
Melun, which is another town of the country of Sens, fi-
tuated likewiſe in an ifland of the Seine, as well as Paris.
Here he ſurpriſed about fifty fhips, which he immediately
mann'd with his foldiers; whereupon the few inhabitants
that remained in the town (for the greateſt part was gone
out to the war) were fo frighted, they immediately fur-
rendered. After this fuccefs he repaired the bridge, which
the enemy had cut down not long before, croffed the ri-
ver with his army, and marched along the banks with the
ftream to Paris: the enemy, having notice of his motions,
by fome that made their efcape from Melun, immediately
fet fire to Paris, caufed the bridges to be cut down, and
fecuring themſelves in the morafs, on the banks of the
Seine, directly over-againſt Paris, placed themſelves oppo-
fite to LABIENUS's camp.
59. By this time CAESAR's quitting the fiege of Clere-
mont, the revolt of the Autunois, and the fecond rebellion
of the Gauls, was known all the country over; to this
news the natives added fome of their own, reporting that
CÆSAR'S
face.
158
C. J. CÆSAR'S
war.
Book VII.
WAR INCÆSAR's journey was ſtopped by the Loire, and that for
GAUL. want of provifions he was obliged to return to the Roman
The people
province. Whereupon the people of Beauvois, having
of Beauvois notice of the defection in Autun, being naturally inclined
prepare for to change, began to raiſe forces, and make public prepa-
rations for war. LABIENUS perceiving the face of affairs
fo wonderfully changed, was obliged to lay a quite different
ſcheme than what he had firft defigned; for now he did
not think of making acquifitions and conquefts, but of ſe-
curing his retreat to Sens; becauſe one fide of the country
was poffeffed by thoſe of Beauvois, reputed a warlike peo-
ple; and the other by CAMULOGENUS, who had already
a powerful army in the field; to add to thefe difficulties,
his legions were divided from their garrifon and baggage
by a broad river; wherefore he found nothing could free
him from theſe inconveniencies but his wonted preſence
of mind.
Labienus
a retreat to
Sens.
army into
three parties.
CHAP. XXVII.
60. IN the evening he fummoned a council of war;
prepares for and having encouraged the officers diligently to obferve his
orders, divided the fhips which he brought from Melun
Divides his among the Roman knights, commanding them to fall down
the river at nine o'clock without any noife, and expect him
about four miles off; five cohorts, whom he thought leaſt
capable of ſervice, he left for a guard to his camp; and
the other five cohorts of the fame legion, with all the bag-
gage, had directions to march up the river, with as much
noife and confufion as poffible; he likewife got a number
of cock-boats, which he fent the fame way, commanding
them to make as great buftle as they could with their oars;
and he himſelf, not long after, marched filently out of his
camp with three legions, to the place where he had ap-
pointed the fhips to meet him.
61. Here he furprized the enemy's fcouts, who were
placed in all parts of the river, but were prevented from
making their eſcape by a fudden tempeft; and our foot and
cavalry, by the care of the Roman knights, to whom LA-
BIENUS had committed the charge of that affair, were
foon carried over the river. It happened that the enemy,
before break of day, almoſt at the fame inftant, had no-
tice, that there was a greater noiſe than ufual in the Ro-
man camp; that a confiderable party were marched up the
river ;
Book VII.
159
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
river; that beating of oars was heard the fame way; and WAR IN
that a little lower another party had been tranſported croſs
the river whereupon believing the Romans defigned to
croſs the Seine in three feveral places at once, and retreat
as faſt as they could, becauſe the people of Autun had re-
volted, CAMULOGENUS likewife divided his army into three The Gauls
bodies, one he left for a guard directly over-againft our on notice of
camp, and detaching a fmall party towards Meudon, with
orders to go as far as the boats were gone before, marched
with the reft of his forces againſt LABIENUS.
ceive us.
it do the like.
third of the
62. By break of day we had tranfported all our forces Labienus
crofs the river, where we found the enemy ready to re- with three
legions crof
LABIENUS encouraging his men to remember fes the Seine,
their priſtine virtue, the many battles they had formerly won, engages and
and to believe CESAR himſelf was prefent, under whofe defeats one
conduct they had fo often met with fuccefs, gave them enemy.
the fign of battle. At the very firſt onſet the left wing of
the enemy was forced, and routed by the feventh legion;
but their right, with whom the twelfth legion engaged,
though the firſt ranks were ſwept off by the Roman piles,
vigorously maintained their ground, without the leaft fufpi-
cion of flight, CAMULOGENUS being prefent to encourage
them. Here the difpute was dubious; when the tribunes
of the feventh legion, understanding how our right wing
was preffed, faced about, and attacked the enemy in the
rear, who even then did not attempt to fly, but being
furrounded on all fides, were cut to pieces with their gene-
ral. The party which had been left behind, to guard Another
the paffage over-againſt our camp, hearing the two armies party come
were engaged, advanced to affift their countrymen, and fiftance, and
poſted themſelves on a hill; but not being able to fuftain meet with
the affault of our victorious foldiers, joined the reft
fled; and thoſe who found no ſhelter from the woods and
mountains, were killed by our cavalry. After this fuccefs
LABIENUS returned to Sens, where he had left the bag-
gage of his legions, and from thence, with all his forces,
marched to CÆSAR.
that
b Metiofedum, which is not to be confounded with Melodunum, or Me-
lun, as fome authors have done. At § 58. the better Copies read Melodunum,
and throughout diftinguish it from Metiofedum.
to their af-
the fame
fate.
CHAP.
160
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN
GAUL.
7
The revolted
others in..
with Vercin-
and are over-
votes, which
CHAP.
XXVIII.
63. THE rebels, encouraged by the revolt of the Au-
ſtates endea- tunois, fent embaſſadors to follicit all the ſtates round about
vour to draw to revolt; they made uſe of their intereft, money, and au-
thority to effect this deſign, threatning thoſe who ſtood
neuter, that their hoftages, whom CASAR had left at Ne-
The Autu- vers, ſhould fuffer for their obftinacy. The Autunois fent
nois contend deputies to VERCINGETORIX, defiring he would come to
them, that they might confult together concerning the
getorix about
the fupreme moft proper methods for carrying on the war; but the
management chief buſineſs, when he came thither, was to defire he
of affairs, would refign his command to them. The diſpute was fub-
ruled by ma-mitted to the decifion of a general council of all the revolt-
jority of
ed ſtates, to be held at Autun; great numbers flocked thither
again' chufe by the day appointed, the queftion was put to the vote, and
him Gene- VERCINGETORIX, by public confent, was again choſen
general. The ſtates of Rheims, Langre, and Treves were
not prefent at this council, the firft remaining faithful to
the people of Rome, and thofe of Treves, whofe country
lay at too great a diſtance, were employed at home by the
Germans. The Autunois were not a little diſturbed to find
themſelves thus ftripped of their fovereignty; they lament-
ed the mighty change of their fortune, and began to re-
gret the lofs of CÆSAR's favour: but having embarked
in the enterprize, there was no room for a retreat; where-
fore EPOREDORIX and VIRDUMARus, two hopeful
young gentlemen, were obliged, much againſt their wills,
to receive orders from VERCINGETORIX.
raliffimo.
Vercingeto-
rix raiſes
64. Inveſted with this office, VERCINGETORIX com-
15000 horfe, manded the confederates to ſend him hoſtages; and ap-
pointed a day for a general rendezvous, at which time.
they were to furniſh him with 15000 horfe; for he was
contented with the foot he had already, becauſe he did not
defign to try his fortune in an engagement; but hoped to
intercept the Roman convoys, and cut off their foragers,
when he ſhould be fo well furniſhed with cavalry; provid-
ed they would contentedly fubmit to lay their own country
wafte, and fet fire to their buildings; which damage would
foon be recompenfed by perpetual liberty and enjoyment of
empire. Having diſpatched theſe orders, he commanded
the Autunois and thofe of Lyons*, which lay neareſt the
• Segufiani, whofe territories likewife contained all the country of Fo-
Roman
I
Book VII.
161
COMMENTARIES.
d
Roman province, to levy 10000 foot: thefe, with 800 WAR IN
cavalry, he committed to the charge of EPOREDORIX'S GAUL.
brother, whom he ordered to make war on Dauphine and Sends feve-
Savoy, commanding likewife the people of Gevaudan, and ral parties
the neighbouring parts of Auvergne, to harrafs Vivarais ; againſt the
as he did thoſe of Roverge and Quercy, to make inroads Roman pro-
into Languedoc: not omitting, at the fame time, under- vince, and
hand to follicit the people of Dauphine and Savoy (who, he
hoped, were not well fatisfy'd with their fubjection to the
Romans) by fending their noblemen bribes, and promifing
the natives the fovereignty of the entire Roman province.
Languedoc.
twenty-two
of Vivarais
routed by the
65. To oppoſe this powerful confederacy, CÆSAR had
had only provided twenty-two cohorts, which he cauſed
lieutenant LUCIUS CESAR to levy in the Province. The Cæfar levies
people of Vivarais, who made themfelves the aggreffors, cohorts.
by attacking their neighbours firft, after the loſs of ſeveral The people
men, with c. VALERIUS DONATURUS, fon of CABARUS,
the principal man in their country, were obliged to quit rebels.
the field, and retire within their walls. But the Dauphi-
nois and Savoyards, having difpofed feveral watches along
the river Rhone, preferved themſelves by their extraordi-
nary care and diligence. CESAR underſtanding that the
enemy were fo much fuperior to him in horſe, and had
blocked up all the paffages, to prevent his receiving fup-
plies from Italy, or the Roman province; fent to thoſe
ftates of Germany crofs the Rhine, which he had formerly
quieted, for cavalry, and fuch light-arm'd foot as uſed to
fight intermixt amongst them: upon their arrival, per- for cavalry to
ceiving they were but ill mounted f, he took the horſes Germany
from the tribunes of the foldiers, the Roman knights, and
volunteers, to furnifh them with.
CHAP.
XXIX.
Cæfar fends
•
66. IN the mean time the enemy's forces from Au-
vergne, and the cavalry, which all the confederates were
to furniſh, met at the general rendezvous; and c.ESAR
was marching towards Franchecomte, through the extreme
confines of Langre, when VERCINGETORIX, having no- Cæfar de-
tice of his deſign, endeavoured to interrupt his journey; figns to
reft. ORTELIUS has miſtaken this place, and condemn'd PTOLEMY with- wards Fran-
out any reaſon.
d That is, the Allobroges on both fides the river Rhone.
e Read Volcarum Aremoricorum, not Volcarum ac Rhemorum, as fome
Editions. The people of Rheims are at a great distance from the places here
mentioned.
march to-
checomte.
f See before, iv, c. 2.
ΛΙ
and
162
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
·
- Vercingcto-
WAR
IN and being arrived, after three days march, within ten
GAUL. miles of the Romans, he fent for the horſe-officers to coun-
cil; "And affured them the time for victory was now
rix defigning come, for CESAR had left Gaul, and was flying to his
to ftop his province; which would certainly give them prefent li-
march, calls berty, but not fecure them peace and quiet for the future;
a council of fince the Romans did not defign to quit Gaul, but return
war.
with more forces to carry on the war: wherefore that was
the only time to attack them, whilft they were upon their
march; for fhould their foot attempt to affift the horſe, it
would of neceffity put a stop to their journey: but if every
man ſhould endeavour to ſhift for himſelf, which he thought
more likely, they would loſe both their baggage and ho-
nour together. For as for the cavalry, they might be af-
fured not a man of them durft venture out of the body of
the army and to ftrike the greater terror into the ene-
my, he would draw all his forces out before the camp.'
The officers unanimoufly defired, that each man fhould
bind himſelf to perform his duty by a folemn imprecation,
The Gauls Wiſhing that he might never return again to his own
twice thro' houfe, that he ſhould be difown'd by his children, wife, and
the Roman relations, if he did not twice force his way through the
army. Roman army."
fwear to ridė
engage the
Romans.
Vercingeto-
67. Their requeft being granted, every man took the
rix fends all Oath; and VERCINGETORIX dividing his cavalry the next
his horſe to day into three parties, order'd one to attack our van, the
other two were to follow at a ſmall diftance on either fide.
On notice of their defign, CESAR likewife divided his
horſe into three parties, and commanded them to meet
The fight the enemy. Both fides being clofely engaged, CÆSAR or-
begins. dered the main body of the army to halt, the baggage to
be received in amongst the legions, and where he per-
ceived his men to be overcharged, he immediately detached
others to their affiftance; which prevented the enemy's
gaining ground, and encouraged our foldiers, who found
themſelves fo carefully relieved: but at laft the Germans,
horfe break having gained a rifing ground, pour'd down with fuch fury
the Gauls upon the enemy, that they routed, and purfued their left
wing as far as the river, where VERCINGETORIX had
pofted. himſelf with the infantry; which the reſt of the
All the reft Gauls perceiving, to prevent being furrounded, fled as
their countrymen had done before them. There was a
dreadful flaughter in all places; three of the chief noble-
men of Autun were taken, and brought to CÆSAR; CO-
TUS,
The German
left wing,
and rout
them.
are put to
flight.
4
to face p.163.
ama
ALISE
10
EL
ע
BA
i sa
让​工
​સ્
Y:
5X
* * *
-
} The Town of Alife.
The Ditch twenty
foot bread.
3 The Stimuli.
4. The I.ilia
5. The Cyppi.
6. The 2 Ditches near ý Rampier. 9. The Camp.
7. The Rampier.
8. The Cervier sharp boughs.
10. The nooden Towers
about & Rampier.
Book VII.
163
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
TUS, general of their horfe, who had lately difputed with WAR I
CONVICTOLITANIS about the magistracy; CAVARILLUS,
who, after the revolt of LITAVICUS, Commanded their
Cotus, Ca-
foot; and EPOREDORIX, who was generaliffimo for the
varillus, and
Autunois againſt the Franchecomtois before CÆSAR's ar- Eporedorix,
rival in Gaul.
taken pri-
foners.
Alexia.
68. The enemy's horſe being routed, VERCINGETORIX Vercingeto-
withdrew his forces, and immediately marched to Alife, a rix marches
town off Dufemois, commanding the baggage to follow to Alife.
him; CÆSAR leaving his, under a guard of two legions,
purſued him as far as the day would permit, and, having
killed about 3000 of the enemy's rear, arrived the day
at Alife. He took a view of the place, and having daunt-
ed the enemy by the defeat of their horfe, in which they
moſt confided, encouraged his men to draw a line of cir-
cumvallation about the town.
CHAP. XXX.
69. ALISE was not to be taken without a formal The fituati-
fiege, becauſe it ftands on the fummit of a very high hill, on of Alte.
whoſe bottom, on both fides, is water'd by two ſeveral´
rivers before the town is a valley, which extends ´about
three miles in length, but every part befides is furrounded
by mountains of an equal height, placed at a moderate The Cauls
diſtance from each other. Under the walls, on the fide encamp cloſe
of the town towards the eaft, lay all the enemy's forces en- under the
camp'd, who had fortified themfelves with a ditch, and walls of the
wall of ftones heaped up eight foot high: the Roman lines The first
were eleven miles in circuit; their camp was in a conve- line of cir-
nient place, where they had built three and twenty tur- cumvallati-
rets; in theſe centinels were placed to obſerve the enemy's the Romans
motions by day, and in the night they were guarded by a included cle-
continual watch and ftrong garriſons.
town.
en drawn by
ven miles;
twenty-three
A ſkirmish
70. Whilſt we were employed about our works, a ſkir- towers built
mith happened on the plain (which we obferv'd extended on it.
three miles) between ours and the enemy's horſe: CESAR on the plain
perceiving his party over-powered, fent the Germans to before the
their affiſtance, and drew the legions out before the
to be in readineſs in cafe the enemy's foot fhould make a cavalry: the
fally our men, encouraged to fee the legions ready to
camp,
town be-
tween the
re. Gauls workt
f Mandubii. This country lies in the diocefe of Langre, but has fome de-
pendence on that of Autun, according to Sanfon, Diodorus fays, Alife was
built by Hercules.
ed.
1
M 2
lieve
164
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VII.
WAR IN
IN lieve them, foon routed the enemy, who crowded ſo cloſe
GAUL. that they hinder'd each other's retreat, and `ftuck faft be-
The Ger-
tween the gates of their camp: the Germans purfued them
to their fortifications, where they put great numbers of
them to the fword, and fome quitting their horfes, endea-
voured to cross the ditch, and get over the wall where-
upon CESAR commanded the legions, which were drawn
out before the camp, to advance a little further. Nor
mans return, were the enemy within the walls in lefs confufion than
after having thoſe without; believing we defigned to force their camp,
made a great they founded an alarm; fome fled into the town for fafe-
with a con- ty, and VERCINGETORIX was obliged to fhut the gates,
fiderable left the camp fhould be deferted. After a great flaughter,
booty. the Germans returned with a confiderable booty of horſes.
flaughter,
CHA P. XXXI.
71. BEFORE our fortifications were compleat, VER-
Vercingeto-CINGETORIX thought fit to diſmiſs all his cavalry by
way all his night: he commanded them at their departure, to return
cavalry; or- to their feveral countries, and raiſe all the men that were
ders them to able to bear arms: he put them in mind of the fervices he
bring along had done them, and conjured them not to abandon him as
all that were a facrifice to the enemy's rage, who had fo well merited
able to bear of the publick liberty; adding, that by computation he
arms. found he had only corn left for thirty days, which, by
with them
Cæfar's
works at
Alife.
A ditch
good huſbandry, might hold out a little longer; but if
they were negligent in performing his commands, 80000
chofen men muft perifh with him. Having given them.
theſe orders, he fent them out privatcly about ten at night,
by the way where our works were not compleat. So foon
as they were gone, he commanded the town, upon pain
of death, to bring in all their corn, which he began to
meaſure out very ſparingly; he diſtributed to each of his fol-
diers the cattle, which had been fent in great numbers from
the people of Dufemois; and received all the forces which
were encamped under the walls into the town, defigning
there to expect relief from the confederates; and thus he
refolved to manage the war.
72. CAESAR having notice of his defigns from the pri-
foners and deferters, prepared thefe fortifications to difap-
point him: Firſt he cut a ditch twenty foot over with per-
twenty foot pendicular fides, as broad at the bottom as the top;
the other fortifications were 400 foot further off the town
Over with
perpendicu-
lar fides.
all
than
Book VII.
165
COMMENTARIES.
ditches fif-
teen foot
than this ditch; for he thought it neceffary to encompaſs WAR IN
fo large a circuit of ground, that his works might not eafily GAUL.
be ſurrounded on all fides, nor furpriſed in the night; as
likewiſe that the foldiers, who were employed about them,
might be beyond the reach of the enemy's darts. Obferv-
ing this diſtance, he drew two other ditches fifteen foot Two more
broad and deep, and filled up the innermoft, which lay in
a marfhy ground, with water from the river. Behind
theſe he cut a trench, and caft up a rampier twelve foot
high, which he furrounded with a breaſt-work of pales and
hurdles, fixed fharp forked ſtakes into the bank, to prevent A rampier
the enemy from approaching where the rampier and breaft- with a
work joined, and furrounded the whole with turrets at
eighty foot diftance from each other.
73. But perceiving our men, who were obliged to fo-
rage, and provide materials at the fame time for ſo great a
work, were often cut off when they wander'd too far from
the camp; and that the Gauls, fometimes making a vigo-
rous fally from ſeveral parts of the town together, attempt-
ed to force his lines, CÆSAR thought it neceffary to make
more additions to them, that they might be defended with
the ſmaller number.
broad and
deep, the in-
nermoft fill'd
with water.
breast-work.
Wherefore, having cut feveral trunks and ftrong arms Cippi.
of trees, he pointed and ſharpened them at the top; then
finking feveral parallel ditches round the works five foot
in depth, he fixed in each thefe trees, which he faften'd to
each other at the bottom, that they might not eaſily be
pulled out; and left their jagged branches ftanding fome-
what above the earth: there were five of thefe rows fo in-
terwoven with each other, that it was impoffible for the
enemy, if they came that way, not to fall on them: theſe
the Romans called ↳ Cippi.
Ꮒ
g It appears, by what follows after, that thefe Cippi were placed imme-
diately next to the innermoft ditch, which CESAR tells us had water in it,
as the Lilia and Stimuli were between thefe and the great ditch twenty foot
broad, which was the fartheft towards the town.
b Some old editions read here Cappos, which LIPSIUS has converted into
Scapos, and I think not without reaſon, though vosSIUS is very angry at him
for it Cippi were pillars fometimes fet up in memory of the dead; but oft-
ner for land-marks, as thofe between the capitol and Flaminian way, which
had this infcription on it: ID. QVOD. INTRA. CIPPOS. AD
CAMPVM. VERSVS. SOLI. EST. A. CAE SARE. A V-
GVSTO. REDEMPTV M. PRIVATO, PVBLICAVIT, You
may obſerve in the following paragraph, CESAR fays the Lilia were fo called,
from the likeness their figure had to the lilly; now therefore fuppofing theſe
Cippi or Scapi to have been called fo upon the fame account (which is but
reafonable to imagine) the clofe branches of the trees, which were prepared
Before
M 3
ミ
​166
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
T
WAR IN
Before them obliquely in order of Quincunx, were pits
GAUL. dug three foot deep, i fomething narrower at the bottom
{
Lilia,
Stimuli,
works he
made out-
than the top; into which were driven ftakes, about the
thickness of a man's thigh, firſt hardened in the fire, and
fharpened at the end; they were fo fixt that no more than
four inches flood above the outer furface of the earth; and
one foot was funk within the bottom of the pits; the mouths
of which were covered with ſmall twigs and ofiers to de-
ceive the enemy; eight feveral rows of this work were
made, at three foot diftance from each other, which they
called Lilia, from the likenefs they bore to that flower.
Before thefe likewife were placed another kind of works,
called Stimuli, which were poles with iron hooks at the
end of them; and thoſe they drove into the earth up to the
heads, all over the place, at a moderate diſtance from one
another.
74. Theſe works compleated, encompaffing another
ſpace of ground, as even as the nature of the place ad-
The fame mitted, which extended fourteen miles in circuit, he made
the very farne fortifications outwards; that if any accident
fhould require his abfence from the camp, it might eafily
hold out againſt a confiderable number of the enemy's
forces: and that his foldiers might run no more hazard in
foraging than was neceffary, he commanded both horfe
and foot to be furniſhed with thirty days provifions.
ward.
The Gauls
cil:
CHA P. XXXII.
75. WHILST theſe affairs were in agitation at Alife,
hold a coun- the princes of Gaul held a general council, where it was
not thought proper to comply with VERCINGETORIX'S
Give orders defire, in fending all that were able to bear arms; but re-
ftate to fur-folved that each ſtate ſhould furnish a certain quota, left
nifh a parti- it fhould be impoffible to get provifions for fo confufed a
for each
cular quota
for the re-
lief of Alife. for this ufe, will much fooner claim kindred with Scapi or Scopi, the buſhy
ftocks on which cluflers of grapes grow, than with Cippi, pillars or land-
marks, which were as often made of ftone as wood.
i Paulatim anguftiore ad fummum faftigio, which monfieur D'ABLANCOURT
tranſlates narrower at the top, Un peu etroites par le haut. But then what
will become of the likeneſs this fort of work fhould have to the lilly? LIP-
SIUS therefore would have this fummum be converted into imum, which vos-
SIUS oppofes; for there is no occafion to alter the text, fince ad fummum
ferobis, may as well fignify to the bottom of the pit, as altum mare the deep
fea. On this occafion vossius has juftly ridiculed URSINUS, for trifling about
the various reading of this place; but, at the fame inftant, has thrown away
above thrice the time, to confule LIPSIUS in a point of as little importance;
whom yet he has not confuted, unleſs valet Ima Symmis mutare.
*
number
1.
:
[
Book VII.
167
COMMENTARIES.
1
m
number, whom the officers could not poffibly know, or WAR IN
govern by military difcipline: wherefore thofe of Autun, GAUL.
with their vaffals, the Segufiani, Ambivareti, Aulerci,
Brannovices (or Brannovii) were ordered to furnish 35000:
thofe of Auvergne, with the Free people of Quercy, Ge-
vaudan, and Velais, who were formerly vaffals to the coun
try of Auvergne, the like number: Sens, Franchecomte,
Berry, Xantonge, Roverge, and Chartres, each 12000:
Beauvois and Limofin, each 10000: Poitou, Turenne,
Paris, Viverais, and Soifons, each 8000: Amiens,
Metz, Perigort, Hainault, Teroüenne, and Agen, 5000
each Maine as many: Arras 4000: Vexen, Leifeux,
Eureux, and Liege, each 3000: Bafle and Bourbonne.
30000: Bretagne, Normandy, and the other maritime
countries, as thofe of Cornoüalle, Auranches, Rhenes,
Caux, Landreguet, Lemovices, Vannes, and Coutance,
together, 6000: but the people of Beauvois refuſed to fur-
nith the quota which was affeffed them, faying, They
would wage an independent war themfelves, for they
fcorned to be commanded by any ore; till out of refpect
to COMIUS they complied fo far as to fend 2000.
:
76. This COMIUS (as we have already taken notice)
had been very ferviceable to CÆSAR in his Engliſh expe-
dition, who in return exempted his country from paying
tribute, reſtored to it the ufe of its ancient laws and cu-
ftoms, and gave him the country of Teroüenne for his
loyalty; but fo great was the univerfal defire of the Gauls,
at this inftant, to recover their priſtine liberty and honour,
that neither friendship nor gratitude were fufficient to diſ-
fuade any one from embarking in the publick cauſe, for
the promotion whereof no man fpared either money or la- They mufter
bour. Having raifed 8000 horfe, and 240000 foot, they their forces,
Sooo horie,
reviewed them in Autun, where they chofe the general and 240000
officers, the chief which were COMIUS of Arras, VIRDU-foot, in Au-
MARUS and EPOREDORIX of Autun, and VERGASILAUNUS choofe Co-
of Auvergne, coufin-german to VERCINGETORIX; to mius, Vir-
thefe were added other officers, who were to affift at coun- dumarus,
Eporedorix,
and Vergah-
k The Segufiani we have already explained to be the Lionois; Ambivareti launas gene-
or Ambivariti, Sanfon places at Nevers; but who thefe Aulerci were, can cals.
hardly be imagined; 'tis certain, they cannot be the Aulerci mentioned be-
fore, becauſe of the distance of place; nor could any body ever yet determine,
who the Brannovices or Bran.novii were.
1 Or rather the diocefe of Bourges, which contains Berry, part of Burgundy
and Touraine.
tun:
m I have render'd this Viverais, according to vossius's opinion, who fays
the text should not be Eleutheri Sueflones, but Helvii, Sueffones, two dif-
ferent ftates; but what could make moni. D'ABLANCOURT miitake Sueilones
for the Swifs, I cannot conceive.
M 4
cils
168
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN cils of war, chofen out of every country. Thus chearful,
GAUL. and big with expectation, they fet forward to Alife, each
man perfuading himſelf that the Romans would not have
the courage to face fo great an army, eſpecially when ſub-
ject to a double attack, on one hand by frequent fallies
from the town; and on the other from numbers of horſe
and foot without.
March
full of hope
to Alife.
cil of war.
CHA P. XXXIII.
The befieg'd 77. IN the mean time the befieged at Alife, having
hold a coun- confumed all their provifions, the day being paffed which
was appointed for the return of their friends, and being
wholly ignorant of what was doing in Autun, fum-
moned a council to determine what methods they ſhould
take in that extremity: feveral opinions were propofed,
fome were for ſurrendering, and others were for breaking
through the enemy, whilft their ftrength would permit. A-
mongst the reft I must not omit a fpeech remarkable for
its extraordinary and inhuman cruelty, which was made
by CROTOGNATUS, a nobleman of Auvergne, whoſe au-
Crotognatus thority was equal to his birth. "I fhall not, fays he,
his fpeech. trouble myfelf with their opinion, who colour ignoble fer-
vitude with the gentle name of furrender; men unworthy
to be accounted citizens, much more to fit in this auguft
affembly rather let me join with thofe who talk of fallies,
in whofe advice, you all agree, remains of ancient Gallic
virtue appear. Yet I must tell you, what you miſtake
for courage, is only the effect of that effeminacy, which
knows not how to fuffer want; for many of their own ac-
cord have welcomed death, whofe patience would not have
fupported them under pain: however, for my part, I
ſhould readily ſubmit to their opinion, if our lives only de-
pended on the event of this affair: for I always had a par-
ticular regard for honour: but the whole kingdom of Gaul,
which we have engaged in our quarrel, must receive its
deftiny from our refolves. Should four core thouſand
men be flain in this place, what courage, think you,
could their friends and relations have, to engage the ene-
my almoſt upon their carcafes? Far be it from us, there-
fore, to ruin thoſe who have chearfully embraced all dan-
gers for our prefervation; let not our rafhnefs or imbecil-
lity of mind undo our native country, and plunge it into
perpetual bondage. Why fhould we defpair of the faith
and conftancy of our allies, becauſe they have not been
punctual to their day? Surely it fhould not be taken for
}
an
Book VII.
169
COMMENTARIES.
an argument of the Romans courage, that they daily en- WAR IN
large their outward works; if therefore they have inter- GAUL.
cepted our couriers, ftill let the approach of our friends be
attefted by their actions who fhew their apprehenfions by la-
bouring both day and night to compleat their fortifications.
If you would follow my advice, let us imitate the example
of our ancestors, who in that far more dangerous war,
with the Cimbers and Teutons, being fhut up within
their towns, and reduced to the fame neceffity, rather than
furrender, fuftained themíelves by the bodies of thofe, whofe
age had made them unferviceable for war: and if anti-
quity had not furniſhed us with fo glorious a precedent to
follow, we ought to have made one ourfelves, for the fake
of our publick liberty, and the inftruction of pofterity.
Gaul never was engaged in a more dangerous war, never
laboured under greater extremities, than when the was
harraffed by theſe Cimbers; yet at length they quitted their
country, and marched to another, leaving us our land, our
cuſtoms, laws, and liberties intire. What, I would aſk,
brought the Romans hither, but the defire of fubduing a
renown'd and warlike people, of poffeffing their country,
and making them perpetual flaves: for they never yet
made war upon any other account. If you are ignorant
of their tranfactions in remoter countries, caft your eyes
upon Gaul, within your own neighbourhood, reduced,
as it is, to a province, deprived of its laws and cuftoms,
and receiving new ones from the rods and axe, thoſe badges
of eternal flavery."
78. The matter being put to the vote, it was first re- They refolve
folved that the fick and aged fhould quit the town, and to expel the
fick and aged
that all other methods fhould be tried, before thofe pro- out of the
pounded by CROTOGNATUS; whofe advice, however, towns.
they defigned to put in practice, rather than fubmit to a
treaty or furrender. Thus the natives of Dufemois, who
had received them into Alife, were expelled their own city,
together with their wives and children, who approaching
the Roman lines, with tears in their eyes, moft humbly
begg'd to be receiv'd as flaves, and faved from periſhing by
famine: but CESAR, having difpofed a guard all about the
works, refuſed them entrance.
CHA P.
XXXIV.
The confe-
af-
IN the mean while COMIUS, and the other gene- derates af
79.
ral officers, with all their forces, were arrived at Aliſe, rive at Alife,
and
170
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
F
WAR IN and had lodged themſelves upon a hill, not above 500 paces
GAUL. from our works. The day after, drawing out all their
cavalry, they filled the valley, which as we have already
faid, extended three miles in length; and ranged their in-
fantry, not far from the fame place, upon the rifing ground.
Alife commanded a view of all the country round; the
The befieg'd befieged foon difcovered their allies; they ran with joy to
perceiving congratulate each other on their arrival, and drawing out
they are
all their forces before the town, began to fill up the firſt
ditch with mould and fafcines, and prepare all other ma-
terials for a vigorous fally
come, pre-
pare for a
faily.
Cæfar orders
the cavalry
to fally out
upon the
enemy.
80. CESAR having difpofed his army on both fides the
works, that every foldier might know, and be ready to
maintain his particular poft, commanded the cavalry to
fally out upon the enemy. From thoſe parts of the camp
which lay upon the higher ground, might eafily be feen
what was done in the field; and all the infantry was
wholly intent on the fuccefs of the engagement. The
Gauls had intermixed fmall numbers of light-armed foot
and archers among their horſe, to affift them, and ſuſtain
the attack of our troops; who wounded ſeveral of our ca-
valry unawares, and obliged them to quit the battle:
whereupon the Gauls, believing fuccefs inclined to their
fide, becauſe our men were oppreffed by their numbers,
encouraged each other by a joyful fhout, which was re-
turned by the befieged: The place where the conflict was,
lay open to the view of both armies; neither noble nor
cowardly actions could be concealed; and the defire of
applauſe, or fear of ignominy, fpurr'd on each fide to do
their utmoſt. Victory had now continued dubious from
noon till almoſt fun fet, when the Germans in cloſe united
the enemy, ranks made a furious charge upon the enemy, put them
to flight, furrounded their archers and cut them to pieces;
our men purſued the Gauls fo clofe, that they gave them
no leifure to rally, till they were arrived at their camp;
upon which thoſe who had come out of the town, returned
melancholy into it again, in deſpair of victory.
The Ger-
mans charge
and rout
them.
The Gauls
man works a
81. After this difappointment the Gauls allowed them-
attempt to felves one day's refpite, during which time they prepared
force the Ro- great plenty of fafcines, fcaling-ladders, and iron hooks;
fecond time, then leaving their camp about midnight, with great filence,
but in vain. they came to our outward works. So foon as they were
arrived there, ſetting up a fhout, to give their allies in the
town notice of their approach, they began to fill up, the
ditches with their fafcines, to diflodge our men from the
rampier
Book VII.
COMMENTARIES.
171
Tampier with flings, ftones and arrows, and to apply all WAR IN
other things neceflary for a ftorm: VERCINGETORIX, GAUL.
hearing their fummons, founded an alarm, and led all his
forces out of the town. Our men, who had their feveral
pofts allotted them, repaired to the fortifications, and
ply'd the enemy clofe with their flings, darts, bullets, and
engines it was very dark, and many were wounded on
both fides; but M. ANTONY and C. TREEONIUS took
care to draw out parties from the farther caftles, to relieve
the foldiers under their command, who were the most preffed
by the enemy.
82. Whilft the Gauls were at the greateſt diſtance from
the works, they did more execution with their darts than
when they came nearer; for then they run themſelves un-
awares upon the Stimuli, fell into the Lilies, and were
wounded with the fpikes, or were killed by the piles that
were caft from the rampier and turrets. Many wounds
had been received on both fides, and no part of our fortifi-
cations forced, when day-light appearing, the Gauls were
apprehenfive they fhould be flank'd by a fally from the
higher ground, and therefore retreated; but the befieged
had ſpent all this time in filling up the first ditch, and were
informed of the retreat of their allies, before they could
come near the works themfelves, therefore returned again
to the town without effecting any thing.
CHAP. XXXV.
83. THUS twice repulfed with lofs, the Gauls began The Gauls
to confult what methods they ſhould take; and having ad-confult about
viſed with thoſe that knew the ground, from them they a third at-
were informed of the nature of our works, the fituation oftack.
our higher camp, and learnt that on the north fide of Alife
lay fo large a hill, that the Romans could not encompaſs it
within their works, but were obliged to take up their quar-
ters there upon an uneven ground; that this place was
guarded by the lieutenants C. ANTISTIUS RHEGINUS,
and C. CANINIUS REBILUS, with two legions: where-
upon having fent out their fcouts for further knowledge of
the place, their general drew out 55000 chofen men, from
amongſt thoſe ftates that are eſteemed the moſt warlike,
and privately forming their defign, appointed the time:
for the affault about noon. VERGACILLAUNUS of Au-
vergne (VERCINGETORIX's relation) one of the four prin-
cipal commanders, who had the charge of this party, leav-
ing
:
་
1
172
Book VII.
C. J. CESAR'S
WAR IN ing the camp about nine o'clock in the evening, finiſhed
GAUL. his journey before day; and pofting his troops behind a
hill, unfeen by the enemy, ordered the foldiers to refreſh
Vergafil-
launus with themſelves after their march. When noon approached he
$5000 cho-went to RHEGINUS's quarters; at the fame inftant the
fen men goes enemy's cavalry approached our works, and the reft of the
Antiftius's army fhew'd themſelves drawn up in order of battle before
quarters. their camp.
to attack
The Gauls
within and
the Roman
works.
84. Which VERCINGETORIX beholding from the tower
without at of Alife, fallied out of the town, carrying along with him
the fame a great many fafcines, long poles, penthoufes, hooks, and
time affault fuch other inftruments as he had prepared for that purpoſe.
The difpute was maintained on every fide at once, for the
Gauls left nothing unattempted to accomplish their defire,
ftill flocking to thofe parts of the works which appeared to
be weakest. The Roman forces were obliged to divide
then felves into feveral parties, nor would the fmallneſs of
their number eafily permit them to be prefent in all places.
at once the noiſe raiſed behind them infuſed no ſmall ter-
ror in them, fince they faw their fafety depended on the
the courage of others; for all people are moft apprehenfive
of dangers which are but approaching.
Cæfar re-
lieves his
men, and
them to
fight.
85. CASAR having pofted himfelf in a convenient place,
from whence he might defcry what was done in all parts,
detach'd fresh fupplies to fuftain thoſe that were over-
encourages charged, and encouraged the whole army, telling them,
that was the only time to give proofs of their virtue, for
if the Gauls were not able to force their lines, they would
certainly defpair of fuccefs, and the Romans might expect
an end of their labours. The chief ftrefs of the battle lay at
the higher fortifications, where VERGASILLAUNUS was
engaged; which, though a very ſmall place, was of great
importance, becaufe of its declivity. Some of the enemy's
forces were employ'd in throwing darts, whilft others, caft-
ing themſelves into a teftudo, approach'd the works, freſh
men ftill relieving the weary. They had foon thrown up
a mount, which did not only furniſh them with an afcent,
but covered and entirely defeated the ufe of thoſe works
the Romans had made in the ground. In fine, our men
had been fo long employed, that they had neither ſtrength
nor weapons left.
86. Wherefore CESAR fent LABIENUS with fix co-
Labienus de-horts to their affiftance, commanding him, if he found
tached to the himſelf unable to maintain the works, to fally out upon the
eiftius. enemy, but not otherwife. He himſelf went in perfon to
relief of An-
encourage
d
Book VII.
173
COMMENTARIES.
encourage the reft of the army, affuring them, that upon WAR IN
that hour's fucceſs depended the reward of all their former GAUL.
toils. The befieged having already in vain attempted the
The befieg'd
lower fortifications, were refolved to try their fortunes in
vigorously
the higher and uneven ground; thither therefore they attempt the
brought all the inftruments they had got ready, drove our higher
men by ſhowers of darts from the turrets, levelled the way
with fafcines, raiſed a mount, and from thence began to
break down the rampier and breaſt-works.
works.
Cæfar fends
Brutus and
87. So foon as CESAR had notice of their effort, he
firft detached young BRUTUS with fix cohorts to maintain
the place; after him lieutenant FABIUS with feven more, Fabius to
and at laſt, when the difpute grew very warm, went thi- maintain the
place; comes
ther himſelf in perfon with another fupply: Having renew'd thither him-
the fight with freſh vigour, and repulfed the enemy, he felf.
march'd to the place whither he had fent LABIENUS with The enemy
repulfed.
four cohorts, which he drew out of the next turrets, com-
manding one party of horfe to follow him, and another
to take a circuit round about the outward works, and at-
tack the enemy in the rear. In the mean time LABIENUS,
finding neither ditches nor the rampier were fufficient to
defend him againſt the enemy's affault, had drawn out
thirty-nine cohorts from the neareft quarters thereabouts,
and fent CÆSAR word what he thought neceffary to be
done; upon which he made what hafte he could to be
preſent at the engagement.
to Labienus.
nus's party.
Limofin
88. His arrival was foon perceived by the colour of his Caefar goes
garments, which he uſed to wear in battle, and the troops Labienus fal-
of horſe and cohorts which he had ordered to follow him lies out upon
being diſcovered from the higher ground, the fight began. Vergailau-
They fet up a fhout on both fides, which was returned
from the rampier, and all the fortifications round: the
Romans having caft their Piles, fell immediately upon the
enemy fword in hand: the cavalry which were fent about, Routs him.
ſoon fhew'd themſelves in the enemy's rear, more cohorts Sedulius of
came up to our affittance, and the Gauls were routed: fain.
Our horfe purſued and flew great numbers of them, a- Vergafillau-
mongſt the reſt SEDULIUS, prince and general of Limofin nus taken
prifoner.
VERGASILLAUNUS was taken prifoner, feventy-four Rand- The befieg'd
ards were brought to CÆSAR, and very few of the 55000 on this de-
eſcaped. The befieged, beholding with deſpair the rout from the
and flaughter which was made amongst their allies, retreat- works, and
ed from the works. On the news of this bad fuccefs, all the Gauls
the Gauls deferted their camp, and had not our foldiers fert their
been fatigued by perpetual labour, and relieving each other, camp.
I
their
feat retire
without de-
174
Book VII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S, &c.
WAR IN their whole army might eafily have been cut to pieces:
GAUL. however, about midnight CESAR detached the cavalry to
purſue them, who falling in with their rear, took many
prifoners, and flew great numbers, but the reft eſcaped to
rix calls a
general
council.
their feveral countries..
CHA P. XXXVI.
89. THE day after, VERCINGETORIX having fum-
Vercingeto moned a general council, reminded the befieged, "That
he had not undertaken that war for his own private intereft,
but for the fake of the publick liberty; however, fince the
power of fortune was not to be refifted, he would freely
fubmit himſelf to be facrificed for an atonement to the
Romans, and be given to them, as it fhould be thought
proper, either dead or alive." Upon which they fent em-
baffadors to know CESAR's pleaſure, who ordered them
The befieg'd
fend embal- to furrender their arms, and deliver up their noblemen.
fadors to They obeyed his commands, bringing VERCINGETORIX
amongſt the reſt. CESAR, fitting in the fortifications be-
Alife furren fore the camp, diftributed the prifoners among his foldiers.
ders at dif- for a booty, excepting only the natives of Autun and Au-
Vercingeto- vergne, hoping by their means to recover the other ſtates.,
treat of a
furrender.
cretion.
zix deliver'd
up.
Cæfar
marches to
Autun,
which fub-
mits, with
Auvergne.
90. This affair thus ended, he marched directly to Au-
tun on his arrival the country fubmitted, and thoſe of
Auvergne did the like by their embaffadors: he demanded
a confiderable number of hoftages from them both, and
returned them about 20000 captives; then ſent his legions
into winter-quarters. LABIENUS, with two legions and
Cæfar re- the horfe, he fent to Franchecomte, joining M. SEMPRO-
NIUS RUTILIUS with him for an affiftant: C. FABIUS and
tives. Sends L. MINUTIUS BASILUS, with two other legions, he placed
his legions at Rheims, to prevent any infurrections at Beauvois: C.
into winter- ANTISTIUS RHEGINUS he detached to the country of Ne-
turns them
20000 cap-
quarters.
vers; T. SEXTIUS to Berry; and C. CANINIUS REBILUS
to Rouverge; each with a fingle legion; Q TULLIUS CI-
CERO and P. SULPICIUS he detached to Chalon and Maf-
con, upon the river Soan, in the country of Autun, to
take care for provifions; quartering himſelf at the capital of
the fame ftate. So foon as the fenate was informed by ad-
vice from CÆSAR of this fummer's campaign, a publick
thankſgiving was decreed of twenty days continuance.
•
A SUP
A
:
SUPPLEMENT
то
C. J. CESAR'S Commentary
OF HIS
WAR in GAUL.
By fome attributed to A. Hirtius Panfa, by Vide Suet.
others to Oppius.
The EIGнт н Воок.
The author's preface to his book. New commotions
in Gaul. Berry and Chartres laid waste by CA-
SAR. Beauvois and feveral other states fubdued.
Rebellion in Poitou. Chartres, Normandy, and
Britain, quell'd by c. FABIUS. A victory ob-
tained by CANINIUS. USSELDON taken by cÆ-
SAR. COMIUS defeated and pardoned. The fol-
lowing year, the whole kingdom of Gaul being
quieted, CESAR's enemies at Rome confpire against
bim.
I
Tranquil. is
Vita Julii.
N compliance with your repeated defires, and that you Hirtius's
might not think my conftant refuſal proceeded rather preface.
from idleness than a juft fenfe of my own inability, I
have at laſt, BALEUS, entered on a very difficult taſk, no
lefs than a fupplement to our CAESAR's incomparable me-
moirs of his wars in Gaul, which connects the ſubſequent
with the former ones; and have carried on the hiftory he
left imperfect of the Alexandrian war, I cannot fay to the
end
1
176
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VIII.
}
WAR IN end of our civil diffenfions (which are not yet terminated)
GAUL.- but to that of his life. I wiſh my readers may confider
with how much reluctance I embark'd in this affair,
and not impute it either to my folly or arrogance, that I
have prefumed to place my writings between thofe of CA-
SAR, whofe Commentaries, though only defigned by him
to preſerve the memory of fo many glorious actions, for
the benefit of other hiftorians, could never yet be equall'd
by the moſt accurate writers: and are fo much efteemed
by all mankind, that they have rather deprived future au-
thors of the opportunity, than furniſhed them with mate-
rials for compiling a larger hiftory. But we, BALBUS,
have more reaſon to admire him than the reft of the world,
who fee and admire the politenefs and correctnefs of his
writings, whilſt we are witneffes of the celerity and eaſe
with which he compofed them. Nor was he more happy
in the elegance of his ftyle, than in laying open the fprings
of action and the motives of his refolutions. I had not the
good fortune to be prefent at the Alexandrian or African
wars; and though I have been partly informed of the
tranfactions in them from his diſcourſe, yet we are leſs af-
fected with the narration of things which attract our ad-
miration by their novelty, than with thoſe which we de-
fign from our own knowledge to atteft to pofterity. But
I fhall add no more on this fubject, left while I officiouſly
fhew how unequal I am to CÆSAR, I fhould fall under
the imputation of imagining it poffible for any one to com-
pare me to him, and fo be thought guilty of that vanity I
Several
endeavour to avoid.
CHAP. I.
GAUL was now reduced, and CÆSAR defigned to
refreſh his foldiers in winter-quarters, after the laft fum-
mer's fatigue, which had not allow'd them a moment's
refpite from the war, when he was informed that ſeveral
ftates revolt, ftates were at the fame inftant confpiring a new revolt.
The reafon reported for the ground of this refolution was,
that the Gauls were convinced no power they were able to
bring into the field, was fufficient to refift the Roman
forces; but hoped, if fo many countries revolted at once,
the Romans could neither have time, nor forces enough to
fubdue them all nor ought that fingle ftate, to whoſe lot
it fhould happen, refufe to fubmit to any inconvenience,
fa
Book VIII.
177
COMMENTARIES.
fo the reſt might be enabled, by that diverfion, to recover WAR IN
their liberty.
GAUL.
marchesinto
country
2. Left the Gauls fhould be confirmed in this opinion, Cæfar
CÆSAR, leaving M. ANTONY the quæſtor to command his
winter-quarters, quitted Autun the laſt of December, and Berry,
went with a guard of cavalry to the twelfth legion, which Lays the
he had lodged in Berry, on the confines of Autun and wafte,
having joined the eleventh legion, which lay not far off,
leaving two cohorts for a guard to his baggage, he ravaged
the moſt fruitful parts of Berry; which being a large coun-
try, and having many towns, could not be awed into obe-
dience, and deterred from confpiracies by a ſingle legion.
3
3. It happened, by CESAR's fudden arrival, as of necef- Takes feve
ral prifoners.
fity it muft, that they who were unprovided and difperfed some fly for
in the fields, were furprized by the horfe, before they refuge to the
could make their efcape into their towns: for he had taken neighbour-
care to prohibit burning of their houfes, the ufual fign of ing ſtates.
an invaſion, left he ſhould want corn or forage if he went
too far into the country, and the enemy ſhould have warn-
ing to take care of themſelves. Many thouſands of the
natives were taken, and others, upon the Romans firſt
coming, fled for ſhelter to the neighbouring ſtates, depend-
ing either upon their ancient acquaintance, or the intereſt
which their confpiracy had united. But CAESAR difap-
pointed them; for he arrived fo unexpectedly, by long
marches, in all the countries they had retired to, that he
allow'd them no time to provide for themſelves, much leſs
to take care of their neighbours: by which diſpatch he
confirmed his friends in their fidelity, and obliged the wa-
vering to accept of peace. At laft the people of Berry,
perceiving CESAR, on delivery of hoftages, had pardoned
and received the other ftates into protection, were glad Berry fub
to embrace the merciful opportunity for regaining his fa-
vour, and followed their neighbours example.
b
mits.
foldiers for
cold, the hard-
in- fhips they
their had fuffered
Here dition, aud
4. CESAR promiſed each foldier, as a reward for the Cæfar re-
hardships they had undergone in this expedition, by the wards his
feafon, the difficulty of the roads, and the intolerable
the fum of 200 fefterces; to every centurion 2000,
ftead of plunder; and having fent the legions back to
quarters, after forty days abſence, returned to Autun.
he was diftributing juſtice, when embaffadors from Berry returns t
came to pray affiftance against the people of Chartres, who Autun,
had invaded their country. Immediately on advice of theſe
a See L. vii. Sr.
bì. e. at 2 d. each fefterce, 11. 138. 4 d. tɔ a commɔn foldier, and 161.
13 s. 4 d. to a centurion.
N
commo-
in this expe-
178
C. J. CESA R'S
Cæfar
marches
tres.
quit their
Book VIII.
WAR IN Commotions, though he had not reſted above eighteen days,
GAUL. having drawn out the fixth and fourteenth legions from
their quarters on the banks of the Soan (where he had pofted
them, as you may obferve in the former Commentary, to take
againftChar-care of provifions) he march'd againſt the people of Chartres.
5. They upon the firſt notice of our approach, being
The people terrified with the puniſhment others had met with, deferted
towns, and thofe little town and villages, which they had run up, after
difperfe the deftruction of their more confiderable buildings, to de-
fend them from the winter's cold, and difperfed themſelves.
into ſeveral parts of the country. CASAR being loth his
foldiers fhould endure the fharp ftorms, which frequently
happen at that feafon, took up his quarters at Orleans,
difpofing part of his army in thofe houfes which the Gauls
had rebuilt, and thatch'd the barracks with ftraw, which
the natives had left imperfect, to ſhelter the reft. But his
Difperfes His cavalry and auxiliary foot he difperfed with good fuccefs
cavalry into into all parts where he was informed the enemy were fled;
the country, our men often returning with confiderable booties. The
themfelves.
Cæfar en-
camps at
Orleans.
Cafar
natives thus oppreffed by the cold of the feafon, driven from
their houſes, not daring to continue long in any place for
fear of our parties, and finding no protection in the woods
from the fharpnefs of the weather, feveral of them loft their
lives, and the reft took refuge in the neighbouring countries.
CHAP.
II.
6. CESAR thought he had done enough for the ſeaſon
of the year, in difperfing the enemy's forces, to prevent a
war; but confidering how much it imported him to take
care that the rebels fhould not be able to make any con-
fiderable head the next fummer, he left c. TREBONIUS,
leaves Tre- with two of the legions he brought along with him, at Or-
benius with leans and being informed by feveral meſſengers from
two legions
at Orleans, Rheims, that the people of Beauvois (who are more re-
and marches nown'd for warlike virtue than any other ſtate of the Bel-
People of ga) with fome of their neighbours, under the conduct of
CORREUS of Beauvois, and COMIUS of Arras, were
raiſing a confiderable army, and marching to a general
rendezvous, in order to invade the borders of Soiffons, which
belonged to the country of Rheims; he thought it did not
only concern his honour, but intereft, not to permit ſuch
faithful allies as thofe of Rheims to fuffer, who had merited
fo well from the Roman empire: Wherefore drawing the
eleventh legion again out of their quarters, he fent orders to
against the
Peanvois.
C. FA-
Book VIII.
COMMENTARIES.
179
C. FABIUS, that he ſhould march with the two legions un- WAR IN
der his command to Soiffons, and likewife wrote to Labienus GAUL.
for one of his. So as his garrifons lay moft convenient,
when neceffity required, he fometimes obliged one, fome-
times another, to quit their quarters, allowing himſelf no
intermiffion from fatigue.
very
Cæfar gets
7. Having drawn thefe forces together, he marched to
Beauvois, and encamped in their territories, difperfing his
cavalry into all parts to get prifoners, from whom he might
be informed of the enemy's defigns. The horfe perform'd
his orders, and brought him word, they could meet with
few in their houſes, though they had diligently ſearch-
ed all places; nor were thofe they had furprized, left there
to till the ground, but to fupply the enemy with intelligence.
From theſe CÆSAR was informed, that all the people of
Beauvois, who were able to bear arms, with thofe of A- intelligence
miens, Eureux, Caux, Vexen, and Arras, had retired to a of the ene-
high place, furrounded by a marfh, where they had en-my's defign.
camped themſelves, having difpofed all their baggage in
the remoteſt woods. That thefe forces were under the Correus
command of feveral officers, but had chofen CORREUS their and Comius
generaliffimo, becauſe he was moſt obnoxious to the Ro- chief com-
mans that COMIUS, not many days before, having left
the camp, was gone to Germany to follicit affiftance from
that nation, who were their neighbours, and a numerous
people that the enemy had refolved, by confent of all
their generals, and the ardent defire of the foldiers, in caſe
CESAR fhould come only with three legions, as was re-
ported, to offer him battle, left they fhould afterwards be
obliged to engage him at a greater difadvantage; but if he
brought more forces along with him, to continue within
their camp, to intercept his convoys, and prevent him from
getting forage, which the feafon of the year had rendered
fcarce.
8. This advice being confirmed from many hands, CÆ-
SAR found their defigns well laid, and very different from
thoſe refolves which ufed to proceed from the rafhnefs of
the barbarous Gauls. Wherefore he determined to leave
nothing uneffay'd for drawing the enemy to an engagement
as foon as poffible, by their contempt of his fmall numbers.
The feventh, eighth, and ninth legions were veteran troops
of extraordinary courage, and the eleventh confifted of
choſen men, all hopeful youths, who had made eight fe-
veral campaigns, yet were not efteemed comparable to the
reft for valour or experience. Calling a council, he com-
municated
N 2
manders of
the rebels.
.
180
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
up his army
an engage-
in order of
battle:
But they
decline the.
fight.
WAR IN municated the advices he had received to all the officers,
GAUL. and encouraged them to behave themſelves like men; then
drew up his army, that he might entice the enemy to a
Caefar draws battle, by fceing he had only three legions; the feventh,
as clofe as he eighth, and ninth legions he placed before the baggage,
can, to entice which was never great amongst the Romans, and ordered
the enemy to the eleventh to bring up the rear, that the enemy might not
ment; and difcover more forces than they expected. By this difpofi-
marches to- tion he modelled his army almoſt into an exact ſquare, and
wards them arrived within fight of the Gauls before they expected him.
9. Seeing our forces march fo fuddenly to them in battle-
array, and fearing the fuccefs of a battle, notwithſtanding
all the intrepid refolutions which had been reported to
CESAR, either furpriſed at our approach, or defirous to
attend the first motions from us, they drew up in order of
battle before their camp, without defcending from the
higher ground. CASAR was very defirous to engage the
enemy, but confidering their numbers, and the difadvan-
tage of the rifing ground, which extended farther in afcent
than the breadth of the valley below, he thought it conve-
Cæfar en- nient to encamp directly over-againſt them. Round about
the place where he had pofted himſelf, he drew two ditches,
each fifteen foot deep, with perpendicular fides; behind
His fortifi- them he caft up a rampier twelve foot high, furniſhed with
a breaſt-work proportionable to it, and ſeveral turrets of
three ftories, joined to each other by galleries, which like-
wife had their little parapets of ofiers, that the enemy might
be repulfed by two feveral rows at the fame inſtant: and
as thofe in the galleries were defended by the height of them
from the enemy, and enabled to caft their piles the greater
diftance; fo they on the rampier were fcreen'd by the gal-
lery from thoſe darts which might otherwiſe have fallen upon
their heads over the gates he built higher towers than in
any other place.
camps over-
againſt
them.
cations.
10. CASAR had two defigns in making theſe fortifica-
tions, for he hoped the ftrength of his works might perfuade
the enemy he was afraid of them, and he was affured his
camp might be defended by a fmall number, whenever he
fhould be obliged to make a long excurfion for corn or fo-
Small fkir- rage. In the mean time there were ſeveral ſmall ſkirmiſhes
between both camps, fometimes our auxiliary Gauls and
Germans, and fometimes the enemy, croffing the morafs,
purſued each other eagerly by turns, the prevailing party
obliging the weaker to retire towards their camp. Here it
happened, as of neceffity it muft, that our foldiers going
mifhes be-
tween both
camps.
}
out
f
I
Book VIII.
181
COMMENTARIES.
out every day to forage in remote and ftraggling places, WAR I
were fometimes furprized by the enemy; which loffes of GAUL.
carriages and fervants, though infignificant to us, yet puffed The Roman
up the fooliſh Gauls with pride, which was not a little en-
foragers
creaſed by COMIUS's return with the forces he raised in fometimes
Germany; and though he only brought 500 horfe, yet intercepted.
they valued themfelves extremely upon fuch a fupply.
CHA P. III.
Comius re-
turns to the
enemy with
500 horſe
from Ger-
many.
Trebenius to
11. CÆSAR obferved the enemy had continued a Cæfar fends
long time within the morafs, and their other natural forti- orders to
fications and confidering he could not force their camp bring him
without ftruggling with great diſadvantages, nor block them three le-
up without a more confiderable army, he writ to TREBO- gions.
NIUS to draw out the thirteenth legion, which he had
quartered in Berry, with lieutenant T. SEXTIUS, and make
what expedition he could to his affiftance with that and the
other two legions under his own command.
In the mean while he detached the cavalry of Rheims,
Langre, and the other countries, from whence he had re-
ceived great numbers, by turns, for a guard to his foragers,
to defend them from the affaults of the enemy.
man fora-
gers.
that day ap-
12. This he did feveral days fucceffively, till daily prac-
tice had taught them that fecurity which always attends un- The enemy
interrupted fuccefs. Thoſe of Beauvois having notice of liein ambuſh
the place where our cavalry were daily poſted, chofe a fe. for the Ro-
lect number of foot, and diſpoſed them in the woods there-
abouts, fending a ſmall party of horſe thither the day after
to draw our men into the ambuſh, that they might be fur-
rounded on every fide. This ill fortune fell upon the ca- The cavalry
valry of Rheims, whofe turn it was that day to guard the of Rheims,
foragers; perceiving the enemies inferior to themfelves in pointed to
number, they purfued them with too much ardour, till guard the fo-
they were enclosed by the foot: being thus difordered, they ragers, are
were obliged to retire with more precipitation than is ufual Vertifcus
in time of battle, after the lofs of VERTISCUS their prince their general
and general, who was fo much fuperannuated, that he could
hardly fit on horfe-back; yet, according to the cuftom of
his country, he would neither excufe himſelf by his age from
accepting the command, nor permit them to engage with-
out him. The enemy were not a little elated with this
fuccefs, thinking they had done wonderful exploits, be-
cauſe they had killed the prince and general of Rheims.
But by this difafter our parties learned more vigilance in
N 3
fixing
defeated, and
kill'd.
182
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VIII. ¡
WAR IN fixing their ſtations, and more caution in purſuing a fly
GAUL. ing enemy.
The Ger-
party of the
enemy.
13. Daily fkirmishes went forward, in the fight of both
armies, where the fords and paflages of the moraſs gave
the combatants an opportunity of engaging. The Ger-
mans fkir- mans, whom CESAR had procured that they might fight
mish with, mix'd with the cavalry, boldly paffing the marsh, put thofe
and defeat a few that refifted to the fword; and purfued the reft fo
warmly, that not only they who had engaged man to man,
and thoſe who had been wounded with miffive weapons,
but even the parties which were difpofed at a greater di-
Drive them ftance, as corps of referve, bafely fled to the higher ground,
without looking behind them, 'till they arrived at their
camp, or farther: which put their whole army into fo
great a confternation, that it was hard to determine, whe-
ther they were more infolent after a trifling fuccefs, or de-
preffed by the leaſt turn of fortune.
up to the
gate of their
camp.
The enemy
Trebonius's
approach,
fend away
gage.
CHA P. IV.
14. AFTER they had lodged feveral days in the fame
on notice of carup, the generals of Beauvois had notice of C. TREBO-
NIUS's approach with the legions; and fearing they ſhould
be befieged, like their countrymen at Alife, fent away the
their bag- aged, weak, and unarmed by night, with the whole bag-
gage of their army. But before this confufed and trouble-
fome party could fet forward, the day appeared; for the
Gauls, though ever fo light armed, are always attended with
a great number of carriages, and, to fecure their retreat,
were now obliged to poft their forces before their camp in
Cæfar en- order of battle. But CÆSAR thought it not convenient,
deavours to either to provoke them to fight at fo great a difadvantage
prevent their of place, when they were already in a pofture of defence,
retreat.
nor yet to keep fo great a diſtance, as to give them an op-
portunity of decamping without danger. But that the dif
ficulty of paffing the morals, which divided the two camps,
might not retard the enterprize, he caft a bridge over it,
to the fide of a hill, which he perceived was parted from
the enemy's camp only by a ſmall valley; and having
paffed his legions over, foon gained the even ground on
the fummit, which was fortified on two fides by a ſteep
their camp. deſcent. He marched in good order to the extreme
ridge, and drew up his legions in a place, from whence,
by the help of his engines, he could fhoot darts amongſt
the thickeft of the enemy,
Gains the
Summit of
a hill near
15. The
Book VIII.
183
COMMENTARIES.
dinefs to
15. The Gauls, confiding in the ſtrength of their poft, WAR IN
refolved to engage our forces, if we ventured to afcend GAUL.
their hill; yet durft not file off by degrees, for fear of be-
ing attacked whilft they were in diforder, and therefore
continued ftill in the fame pofture: which CESAR per- Keeps his
ceiving, commanded twenty cohorts to be always in rea- men in rea-
dinefs, and removing his tents thither, ordered the place purfuethem.
to be fortified. When his works were compleat, he drew
the legions up before the rampier, and appointed the ca-
valry their particular ftations, where they were to expect
his further orders, with their horfes bridled. The enemy
perceiving we were ready to purſue them, and that they
could not conveniently lodge in that place the next night,
or continue there any longer without a provifions, refolved
to take this method to fecure their retreat: they handed
the fafcines and truffes of ftraw, on which they fat, to The Gauls
ftratagem to
each other, whereof they had plenty ( for CESAR has fecure their
already taken notice in his former Commentaries, that the retreat.
Gauls fit down when they are drawn up in order of battle)
and placed them before the front of their army till the
evening; then, upon a fignal given, fet them all on fire
together; and fo foon as the flame was fufficient to fcreen
them from the fight of the Romans, they ran away as faſt
as they could.
16. Though CESAR could not perceive the enemy's
departure becauſe of the fires, yet fufpecting they had made
them to gain an opportunity of retreating, he advanced
the legions a little farther, and ordered the cavalry to pur-
fue; he marched flowly after himſelf, apprehenfive that
the Gauls were pofted not far off and defigned to draw
him into an ambuſcade. Moft of the horfe were afraid of
venturing through the fmoak and flames, and they who
were fo hardy as to enter, not being able to fee fo far be-
fore them as their horfes ears, returned again for fear of
a Inftead of Cibariis, which is the vulgar lection, fome criticks read Peri-
culo: for my part, I know no reaſon for rejecting the word, fince HIRTIUS
tells you before, they had fent away all their baggage.
b HOTTOMAN thinks this place has reference to B. iii. 18. where cæ-
SAR, giving an account of FABIUS's ftratagem against the Gauls of Coutance,
fays, Velut explorata vi&toria, farmentis virgultifque collectis, quibus foſſas Ro-
manorum compleant, ad caftra pergunt: which vossIUS, in my opinion, very
justly oppoſes; for here is not a fyllable of the Gauls cuftom of fitting; and I
can underſtand no more by this place, but that they provided plenty of fafcines
to fill up the Roman trenches: therefore, either fomething is loft of CÆSAR'S
former Commentaries, or this must be a grofs corruption of the text; which I
am rather inclined to believe, becaufe it is not probable an army ſhould fit
down when the enemy is drawn up in order of battle, and ready to charge
them.
being
!
184
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN being furprized, and gave the enemy time to retreat. By
GAUL. this ftratagem, which had an equal mixture of cowardice
and craft, they escaped without any lofs to a very ſtrong
The Gauls place not above ten miles off. From whence ſending out
feveral ambuſcades of horfe and foot, they greatly annoyed
the Roman foragers.
retreat,
lics in am-
Correus,
17. CÆSAR having received many loffes of this nature,
with 6000 was at laft informed by a certain prifoner, that the enemy's
foot, and
1000 horſe, general CORREUS, having choſen 6000 of his beſt infantry,
and 1000 horfe, had difpofed them in a place where he
bush for the expected the Romans would come to forage, becauſe of
Roman fo- the plenty of corn and grafs in that field. Upon this in-
On notice telligence CESAR drew out more legions than ufual, and
of it, Cæfar fending the cavalry before, intermixed with light-arm'd
valry and
infantry, followed after with the legions as faſt as he
light-arm'd could.
ragers,
fends the ca-:
foot before,
following
after with their defign, which did not extend above a mile in length
the legions. any way, befet on every fide as it were with toils, either by
thick woods, or a very deep river. This place they had
furrounded; but our cavalry being already forewarned of
the enemy's defign, marched refolutely in good order to
the place, prepared to engage the enemy, knowing they
fhould be fuftained by the legions. On their arrival, COR-
REUS thinking fortune had blefs'd him with the opportu-
party first nity he wifh'd for, first appearing with a fmall party, at-
attacks the tacked our foremoſt ranks : our men bravely fuftained the
Roman ca- charge, not flocking too clofe together, as through fear they
valry.
often do, in fkirmishes between the horſe, to their own dif-
advantage.
18. The Gauls in ambufcade had chofen a field for
Correus
with a ſmall
19. The rest of the enemy's horſe that lay in the woods,
perceiving we engaged their foremoft party in fmall fqua-
drons, and prevented their ſurrounding us, came up to the
The diſpute affiftance of their general; upon which the difpute grew
grows warin warm on both fides: victory had for fome time continued
on both
fides,
dubious, when the enemy's foot advancing to their affift-
ance, obliged our horfe to give way; but the light-armed
infantry, who had been fent before the legions, came up
to fuftain them, and mixing themfelves among the horſe,
ftopp'd the enemy's career. Thus the battle was equal
again on both fides, and our men became bolder, having
fo well ſtood the fhock of the enemy's first charge, with-
out being furprized by the ambuſcade. In the mean while
the legions approached, and both parties had notice by their
ſcouts, that CÆSAR was marching with his forces in order
of
Book VIII.
185
COMMENTARIES.
of battle; whereupon our men, receiving fresh fpirits from WAR IN
the affiſtance they expected from the cohorts, renew'd their GAUL.
charge with redoubled vigour, as if they were jealous left
by delay they ſhould let them in for a fhare of that glory
which by conqueft would be all their own.
The courage Correus
of the Gauls began to fail them, and in vain,they looked routed.
about on all fides for fome way to eſcape; for all the ave-
nues being ſtopped up, themſelves were caught in the trap
they had prepared for the Romans. Being overcome, rout-
ed, and having loft the greateſt part of their number,
they ran with confufion whither chance directed them,
fome to the woods, and others to the river; but were
purſued by our men and put to the fword. Yet CORREUS, His courage.
whoſe mind was too great to ftoop to any misfortune,
could neither be perfuaded to quit the field, take refuge in
the woods, nor accept of quarter; but fighting obftinately,
and wounding feveral of our men, at laft provoked the en-
raged victors to diſpatch him with their darts.
CHA P. V.
He is kill'd.
fues his good
20. AFTER this defeat, CESAR believing the enemy,
on advice of their lofs, would immediately remove their
camp, which was not above eight miles diftant from the
place where the action happen'd, refolved to purſue his
fuccefs; and notwithstanding the river obftructed his march, Cæfar pur-
he paffed it with his forces. The people of Beauvois, and fuccefs.
their confederates, having notice from fome few, who by Marches
the ſhelter of the woods had efcaped (though wounded) towards the
out of the battle, that all things had gone against them; camp.
that CORREUS was kill'd, their horfe, with the beft of the
infantry cut off, and that the Romans were almoſt at their
camp, immediately called a council by found of trumpet, They fend
and unanimouſly agreed to fend embaffadors and hoftages to embalador
CÆSAR.
enemy's
to fue for
peace.
21. COMIUS of Arras, perceiving what would be the Comius flies.
reſult of this meeting, fled to the Germans, from whom he into Germa-
had brought ſome auxiliary troops. He was no foonery.
gone, but they fent embaffadors to CASAR, "intreating The embaf-
him that he would be fatisfied with the puniſhment they fadors of
had already received; for had they been in his power, they Beauvois
were perfuaded his wonted mercy would not have in- their fpeech.
Aicted fo fevere an one upon them: that the people of
Beauvois were already ruined, by the lofs of their ca-
valry
186
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR INvalry and chofen foot; for hardly enough had eſcaped
GAUL. to bring news of the flaughter: however they had re-
ceived this benefit from their damage, that the author of
their rebellion was killed; for as long as he furvived,
the fenate was never an equal balance for the common
people"
Cafar's
anſwer.
The embaf-
fadors rc-
fend hof-
. tages.
:
<
22. CAESAR gave their embaffadors audience, but re-
minded them, "That in the former year, when Beauvois
and the other cities of Gaul revolted, they were the moſt
obftinate of all their countrymen, and could not be induced
to furrender by the example of their neighbours: that it was
an eaſy matter to transfer the blame upon the dead; but,
he was very well fatisfy'd, no fingle perfon could, without
the confent of the fenate, noblemen, and country wage
war by the weak affiftance of the common people: how-
ever he was contented with the puniſhment they had drawn
upon themſelves.”
23. The night after the embaffadors returned with this
anfwer to their countrymen, who immediately fent ho-
turn, and ftages. Whereupon the other countries, who waited for
the fucccfs of this embaffage, did the like; in fine, all ex-
cept COMIUS fubmitted, whom fear would not permit
to truft his perfon in any one's power; for the year be-
fore, whilst CÆSAR was in Lombardy, LABIENUS un-
derſtanding that COMIUS follicited ſeveral ſtates to rebel,
and had enter'd into a confpiracy againft CESAR, thought
it lawful to reward his treachery by means on other oc-
caſions not juſtifiable: Judging it would be to no purpoſe
to fend for him to his quarters, left a vain attempt might
have render'd him more cautious, he fent c. VOLUSENUS
QUADRATUS to kill him, under pretence of a conference;
picking out fome centurions to attend him in the enter-
prize. When they came to the interview, and VOLUSE-
nation of NUS had taken COMIUS by the hand, one of the centu-
rions, as if furprized at fome extraordinary accident, at-
tempted to kill him, but was prevented by his friends;
however, the first blow gave him a terrible wound on the
head: fwords were immediately drawn on both fides, tho'
each party was lefs eager to engage than to make their
efcape: The Romans, becauſe they thought COMIUS was
already mortally wounded; and the Gauls, becauſe they
were apprehenfive of an ambuſcade, fearing we had more
foldiers there than had yet appeared. Upon which, 'tis
reported, coмius vow'd never to hold further commerce
with any Roman.
The affaffi-
Comius.
1
CHAP.
パ
​Book VIII.
187
COMMENTARIES.
CHAP. VI.
Sends Fabius
of Gaul.
24. CÆSAR having now fubdued the moſt couragious WAR IN
ftates of Gaul, and perceiving there was no country left GAUL.
which prefumed to take up arms against him, but that Cæfar di-
fome had left their towns and country to avoid the pre- vides his ar-
ſent ſubjection to the Roman empire, refolved to divide my.
his army into ſeveral ſquadrons. M. ANTONY the quef-
tor, with the eleventh legion, he ordered to attend him
C. FABIUS, with twenty-five cohorts, he fent to the
fartheft parts of Gaul, being informed fome of the ftates to the far-
there were up in arms, becauſe he thought C. CANINIUS theft parts
REBILUS's two legions were not fufficient to keep them Sends a le-
in obedience. T. LABIENUS he ordered likewife to at-gion to guard
tend him, and fent the twelfth legion into winter-quarters Provence.
under his command into Lombardy, to defend the Roman
colonies there, left they ſhould meet with the fame mis-
fortune which had befallen the people of Trieſte the year
before, who were plunder'd by a fudden incurfion of the
Gauls. He marched himſelf to harrass the country of Cæfar
AMBIORIX: For though he defpaired of reducing him marches to
into his power, becauſe he continually fled before him, Liege.
yet he thought it imported his honour to lay his country
wafte, deſtroy his towns, cattle, and fubjects; that if
any ſhould chance to furvive the flaughter, AMBIORIX
might not dare to return among them, through fear of
their refentment for the calamities he had brought upon
them.
harrafs
nus to
25. When he had difperfed his army into every part of
Liege, and fill'd all places with flaughter, fire, and rapine,
having kill'd and taken great numbers, he fent LABIENUS Sends Labie-
with two legions to Treves, whofe inhabitants bordering Treves.
on the Germans, with whom they had perpetual war, bear
a great resemblance to them in their rough and unpoliſhed
tempers, and never obey but when obliged to it by a ftand-
ing army.
CHAP. VII.
racius in
26. IN the mean time lieutenant C. CANINIUS, hav- Dumnacus
ing notice from DURACIUS, who had always continued befieges Du-
faithful to the people of Rome, that great numbers were Poitiers.
in arms on the borders of Poitou, and that part of his
country
up
188
Book VIII.
C. J. CESAR'S
Caninius
marches
WAR IN Country had revolted, immediately marched towards Poic-
GAUL. tiers. So foon as he was arrived within a ſmall diſtance
of the town, he was informed by fome prifoners, that
DURACIUS was befieged in Poitiers by DUMNACUS ge-
with two le- neral of Anjou, with feveral thouſand men: but thinking
gions to his his two legions not fufficient to encounter the enemy,
he encamped in an advantageous place. DUMNACUS
having notice of his approach, quitted the fiege, and
but is be- marched to affault his camp: but having ſpent many days
fieged him- to no purpoſe, and loft ſeveral men, without being able
to force CANINIUS's trenches, he returned again to inveft
The Gauls Poitiers.
affillance;
felf in his
camp.
liege the
Fabius
Dumnacus
raifes his
retire to be- 27. About the fame time c. FABIUS, having reduced
feveral countries, and received hoftages for their obedience,
town again,
not being a- had notice from CANINIUS of the pofture of affairs in Poic-
ble to force tou; upon which he marched to the relief of DURACIUS:
his trenches. but DUMNACUS being informed of his defign, and de-
marches to fpairing of fafety, if he ſhould be obliged at the fame time
affift Cani- to encounter with the Romans without, and the befieged
nius. within, immediately left Poitiers; nor did he think him-
felf ſecure till he had croffed the Loire, which was not to
fiege, and be paffed without a bridge. FABIUS, though he had not
yet arrived within fight of the enemy, nor joined CANI-
Fabius pur- NIUS, having fully informed himſelf how the country lay,
fues him. believed the enemy muft of neceffity fly the fame way they
had taken; wherefore he made towards the bridge, fend-
Sends the ing his cavalry before, with orders to march no farther
cavalry to
fall upon beyond the legions than they could conveniently return
Dumnacus's again without damage to their horſes, to encamp with the
rear. foot at night: they obeyed his commands, followed, and
flies croís the
Loire.
Does the
orders them
attacked the enemy, falling upon them whilft they were
frightened, flying, and loaden with their baggage, killed
feveral, gained a confiderable booty, came off with glory,
and returned to the camp.
28. The night following FABIUS fent the horſe before,
like a fecond with orders to engage the enemy, and find them employ-
time, and ment till he fhould come up to their affiftance. Accord-
ingly Q. ATIUS VARUS, commander of the horſe, a man
to keep the
Gauls in of fingular valour and conduct, having encouraged his fol-
play till he diers, purſued the enemy: part of his troops he difpofed
comes up to into convenient places, and engaged the Gauls with the
them. reft. The difpute was ſharp on both fides, for the enemy's
horfe, being perpetually relieved by the foot, fought brifk-
ly; and believing they fhould have no greater numbers to
encounter
Book VIII.
189
COMMENTARIES.
:
encounter than in their former fkirmiſh, flattered them- WAR IN
felves that they had obtained a lucky opportunity for de- GAUL.
feating our horſe but the Romans, contemning thofe they
had worfted but the day before, and remembering the le-
gions were coming to their affiftance, fcorned to retire; and
being ambitious to engroſs the whole glory of the victory to
themſelves, returned the charge of the enemy's foot with
equal vigour.
fly; many
ers.
29. The conflict had been for fome time obftinately
maintained on both fides, when DUMNACUS drawing his
army into good order, appointed the foot to relieve the ca- The Gauis
valry by turns. On a fudden the enemy faw our legions them kil-
marching in cloſe ranks to the affiſtance of our horſe: upon led and ta-
which their cavalry were fo frightened, and their foot foken prifon-
furprized, that forcing their way through their own bag-
gage, every man endeavoured to efcape by flight. But
our party, who but juſt before had bravely engaged them,
whilst they made reſiſtance, having now obtained the
victory, fet up a joyful ſhout on all fides, and purſuing the
enemy every way as far as their horfes could carry them,
or as long as their arms could do execution, made a dread-
ful flaughter amongſt the Gauls; for having killed above Their ex-
12000 armed men, or fuch whoſe fear had made them tire baggage
throw down their weapons, we took their baggage entire.
taken.
30. But CANINIUS being informed that DRAPES of
Sens, who in the first revolt of Gaul, having affembled
from all parts men of defperate fortunes, flaves, out-laws,
and thieves, had intercepted the Roman convoys; toge-
ther with LUTERIUS of Quercy, who attempted (as is al-
ready obferved in the former Commentaries) during the
fame rebellion, to make an inroad into the Roman pro-
vince; having both efcaped the flaughter, were marching
with about five thousand men, the remains of the laſt de-
feat, upon the like defign: he followed them with two Caninius
legions, left the Roman province ſhould receive any dif- purfues Dra-
grace by being terrified and harraffed by fuch rapparees. terius.
31. C. FABIUS, with the rest of the army, marched Fabius
towards Chartres, and thoſe other countries which he un-
derſtood had been affifting to DUMNACUS in the late re-
bellion; not doubting but this defeat had taught them that
fubmiffion, which time and DUMNACUS's advice might
aboliſh his fuccefs in this enterprize was equal to his dif
patch, for the people of Chartres, who, though often har-
rafled, had not yet entertained any thoughts of peace,
:
upon
pes and Lu-
marches to
Chartres.
190
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN upon his arrival fubmitted, and delivered hoftages: All the
GAUL. ftates of Bretagne and Normandy, which lie in the ex-
which fub- treme parts of Gaul, towards the fea, influenced by their
mits. example, did the like without delay. DUMNACUS being
So do Bre- expelled his country, wandering and lurking here and
there, alone, was forced to feek refuge in the fartheſt parts
of Gaul.
tagne and
Normandy.
Caninius
Uffeldon,
CHAP. VIII.
32. BUT DRAPES and LUTERIUS, finding CANINI-
Us purfued them with his legions, and that it would be
impoffible for them either to enter the province, or plun-
der the country up and down, without danger, made a
halt in Quercy, where LUTERIUS had, during his more
profperous days, bore a confidcrable ſway amongſt his
countrymen, and been highly efteemed by the common
people for being the first author of all commotions.
Here he furprized Uffeldon, which formerly belonged to
him; and poffeffing it with his own and LUTERIUS'S
troops, foon brought the townfmen to join with him in the
rebellion.
33. CANINIUS quickly arrived at this place; but find-
arrives at ing it fortified on all fides by craggy rocks, fo ſteep, that
divides his it would be difficult for any man to afcend them in armour,
forces into though no body were in the town to oppofe him; and
three parts, knowing that the inhabitants had very confiderable effects,
which they could not convey away without falling into
the hands of his legions, much lefs of his cavalry, he di-
vided his cohorts into three parts, and difpofed them in
feveral quarters on three eminent places, from whence he
defigned by degrees to draw a line of circumvallation about
and befieges
the town.
the town.
34. Which the befieged perceiving, began to dread the
fame fate their countrymen met at Alife, eſpecially LUTE-
RIUS, who having felt the fmart of that blockade, adviſed
them by all means to make fufficient provifion of corn:
They took his counfel, refolved to leave part of their
forces to guard the town and their baggage, and to march
The beſieged with the reft to fetch in corn: accordingly, by general
confent, leaving 2000 in the place, the reft marched out
of the town under the command of DRAPES and LUTE-
RIUS. Thefe foragers having ftay'd fome time in the
country of Quercy, one part whereof was willing to ſupply
fend out
their army
to fetch in
corn.
them,
:
Book VIII.
191
COMMENTARIES.
them, and the other not able to oppofe their taking what- WAR IN
ever they had occafion for, they foon provided themfelves GAUL.
with a great quantity of corn. In the mean while the be-
fieged, fometimes fallying out in the night, affaulted our
turrets; wherefore CANINIUS delayed his works, left he
ſhould not be able to compleat them, or be obliged to dif
pofe feeble garrifons in feveral places.
voy towards
35. DRAPES and LUTERIUS, having got abundance of
corn, took up their quarters about ten miles diftant from
the town, that they might have an opportunity of con-
veying their provifions by degrees into Uffeldon each
took his feveral office; DRAPES was to ftay in the camp
with part of the army, and LUTERIUS with the reſt to Luterius
convoy the provifions to the town Having difpofed par- marches
ties along the road for a guard, he fet forward about four with a con-
in the morning by narrow ways through the woods. The Ufeldon.
out-guards of our camp hearing a noiſe that way, ſent out
their ſcouts to diſcover the occafion; who, at their
return, informed CANINIUS of the enemy's motions:
upon which, drawing thofe cohorts which were ready arm-
ed out of their turrets, he fet upon the enemy's carriages Is intercept-
juft before break of day; who, ſurprized at ſo fudden an ed by Cani-
attack, fled for refuge to their convoy; which the Ro-nis.
mans perceiving, fell furioufly upon the enemy, and re- Moft of the
fufed to grant any man of them quarter: but LUTERIUS cavalry kil-
with a few followers, having made their efcape, returned led or taken.
not to the camp again.
36. After this fuccefs, CANINIUS had notice from fome
priſoners, that DRAPES was encamped not ten miles off
with another part of their forces. This intelligence was
confirmed by many hands; wherefore believing that one
general being already routed, the other being furprized,
might eaſily be defeated; and though it might be too great
a happineſs to expect that none fhould have eſcaped the
flaughter, to carry news of the action to DRAPES, yet he
refolved, fince there could not be any danger in an affault,
to try the event of it. He fent therefore all his cavalry,
with the nimble German foot before; and leaving one le-
gion behind with the baggage in the three camps, followed
after with the other himſelf. When he was arrived near the
enemy, his fcouts informed him, that they had encamped Canisius
themſelves, according to the custom of the Gauls, upon attack Dra-
the banks of a river, and that his cavalry with the German pes.
foot, had furprized, and fet upon them unawares; upon
which
marches to
192
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book VIII.
WAR IN which he marched to their affiſtance in order of battle. O
GAUL. a ſignal given, our men poffeffed themſelves of the higher
ground, which our cavalry and the Germans perceiving
by the enfigns of the legion, fought vigoroufly, and our
Routs his cohorts pouring down upon the enemy, either killed or
takes him took them all prifoners, obtained a confiderable booty, and
prifoner. furprized their general DRAPES.
army, and
Returns to
37. After this remarkable fuccefs, fcarce any Roman
foldier having received a wound, CANINIUS returned a-
the fiege. gain to the fiege; and having defeated his outward enemy,
for fear of whofe forces he had defifted from carrying on
his works, now commanded them to be compleated on all
comes to his fides; and the next day after, C. FABIUS coming to his
affiftance, took a part of the town to inveſt.
Fabius
affiftance.
Cæfar
CHAP. IX.
38. CÆSAR, in the mean time, leaving the quæftor,
M. ANTONY in Beauvois with fifteen cohorts to prevent
any new inſurrections in Belgium, went himſelf to other
countries, from whom he demanded great numbers of
hoſtages; and encouraged thoſe who were fearful, to con-
tinue faithful in their allegiance. When he came to
Chartres, where in his Commentaries he has obferved the
revolt began, finding they were moſt afraid, becauſe they
were conſcious of the treaſon they were guilty of, that he
might the fooner free them from their apprehenfions, he
demanded them to deliver up GUTURVATUs to juftice,
Guturvatus, who had been the author of that rebellion. Though this
who is deli- unfortunate man would not truft himſelf with any of his
vered up and
put to death. Own countrymen, yet he was fo diligently fought after,
marches to
Chartres.
Demands
that he was foon brought to the Roman camp: and CA-
SAR, contrary to his nature, was obliged by the foldiers
(who alledg'd GUTURVATUS had been the cauſe of all
thofe dangers and misfortunes they had fuffered during the
late war) to condemn him to be whipped to death, and
then beheaded.
39. Here he was informed, by frequent advices from
CANINIUS, of the fuccefs he had had againſt DRAPES and
LUTERIUS, and what refolutions the people of Uffeldon
had taken. Now though he defpifed the fmallneſs of their
numbers, yet he thought it neceffary to inflict a fevere pu-
niſhment upon them for their contumacy, left the whole
kingdom of Gaul ſhould fancy they had conftancy enough
at leaft, though not fufficient force, to oppofe the Ro-
3
mans;
味
​to face p. 193.
་
Usseldon.
A
ནང་གི་གྲས་
:
A. Usseldon B. The fountain. C. The Burning Barrels D. The Mount
to equall if height of y: Fountain
Ġ. The Towers
H
*
Book VIII.
193
COMMENTARIES.
mans; and other ftates, following their example, fhould WAR IN
poffefs themſelves of fortified places, and affert their liberty; GAUL!
eſpecially fince the Gauls knew his commiffion expired the
next year, and had nothing to apprehend, if they could
but hold out one winter. Wherefore ordering lieutenant
Cæfar
CALENUS to follow after him by moderate marches, marches to
he went before with all the cavalry as faft as he could to the fiege of
CANINIUS.
Uffeldon.
40. Being arrived there beyond all mens expectation,
he perceived the town was fo well invefted, it was impoffi-
ble the enemy ſhould make their efcape; but being in-
formed from the deferters, that the befieged had plenty of
corn, he attempted to cut off their water.
There was a
river that divided the plain below, which almoſt ſurrounded
the craggy hill upon which Uffeldon was built, on every
fide; the nature of the place prevented his diverting the
ſtream another way, for it ran fo very low, that no ditch
could be contrived to drain it: but the deſcent to this ri-
ver was ſo ſteep, that the beſieged could neither come at
it, nor return again, without being wounded, and endan-
gering their lives, if the Romans oppofed them. Which Cæfar cuts
CASAR perceiving, difpofed a party of archers, flingers, off from the
and fome engines, over-againft the places where the eaſieſt uſe of the
defcent lay, to prevent the befieged from coming to the river.
river; which obliged them afterwards to fetch water all at
one particular place.
the befieged
from the
41. For clofe under the walls of Uffeldon, where, for the
fpace of three hundred foot together, the town was not
furrounded with the river, flowed a plentiful fountain.
Whilft all men were defirous of cutting off this fpring from
the enemy, CÆSAR alone faw it was not to be attempted Cæfar en-
without danger. Directly over-againſt the hill, with great deavours to
labour, and perpetual fkirmiſhing, he began to raiſe vines, cut them off
and caft up a mount: but the befieged defcending from fountain.
the higher ground, engaged our men at a diſtance, with-
out danger to themſelves, and wounded feveral that preffed
forward too eagerly; yet the Romans, not deterred by theſe
difadvantages, proceeded in their works, endeavouring to
furmount the difficulty of the afcent by their labour; at the
fame time we made mines to the head of the fountain,
which was the only work to be done without danger or
fufpicion. We caft up a mount fixty foot high, on which Raifes a bat.
we raiſed a tower of ten ftories, not to equal the walls, tery to play
for that was impoffible, but only to the top of the fpring, upon the a-
This work being perfected, engines were planted to play
O
upon
venues.
194
Book VIII.
Ċ. J. ĊÆS A R'S
WAR IN upon the acceffes to the fount, which made it fo dangerous
GAUL. for the befieged to fetch water, that not only the cattle,
but feveral men petiſhed by thirſt.
The befieg'd
roll fiery
42. The enemy, to prevent fo great an inconvenience,
barrels down filled feveral barrels with greafe, pitch, and finall pieces
the hill upon of boards, and having fet them on fire, rolled them down
the battery. the hill upon our battery; fighting furioufly at the fame
time, to divert the Romans by the danger, from extin-
guiſhing the fire. Our works immediately began to flame,
for wherever they had thrown down thefe barrels, they fet
fire to that part of the mount of vines where they ſtuck;
but our foldiers, notwithſtanding the danger of the fight,
and diſadvantage of the ground, fhewed their prefence of
mind; and as the action happened on an eminent place,
A hot dif- confpicuous to the view of both armies, great ſhouting
was heard on both fides; every man, eſpecially the brave,
pufhing on, through the flames and fhowers of darts, to
fignalize his virtue.
pute.
Cæfar's feint
befieg'd
from the
battery.
Its fuccefs,
43. CÆSAR perceiving many of his men were wound-
to decoy the ed, commanded his cohorts to afcend the hill on every
fide at once, and raiſe a ſhout, as if they intended to ſcale
the wall; upon which the befieged being frighted, becauſe
they knew not what we were doing, recalled their forces
from our battery, to man the walls; which gave the Ro-
mans leifure to quench the fire in fome places, and to pre-
vent its progreſs in others, by cutting off part of the
works. Even after this they made an obftinate refiftance,
and though they had loft feveral of their men for want of
water, refolved to hold out: but at laft the veins of it be-
ing either drained by our mines, or diverted from their
ufual courfe, the fountain was immediately dried up;
which reduced the enemy to deſpair, and obliged them to
furrender; believing this was not fo much wrought by the
hand of the Romans, as by the particular direction of
Heaven.
Uffeldon
furrenders.
44. CASAR being fatisfied his mercy was already fo ſuf-
ficiently known to the world, that it would not be imputed
to the cruelty of his nature, if he dealt more feverely by
the people of Uffeldon than he had by others; and finding
no end of his trouble, if other ftates fhould follow their ex-
ample, and revolt together, he refolved to deter others.
from being guilty of the like offence, by their ufage; there-
fore pardoned their lives, but cut off the hands of them that
Cæfar cuts had born arms againſt him, that their puniſhment might be
off the befie- the more remarkable.
ged's hands.
CHAP.
Book VIII. COMMENTARIES.
195
CHA P. X.
fufes his
meat, and
DRAPES, who, I have already obſerved, was taken WAR IN
by CANINIUS, either difdaining to bear his chains, or GAUL.
through fear of fome heavier puniſhment, refufed eating a
few days together, and ſtarved himſelf. LUTERIUS at the Drapes re-
fame time, whom I have mentioned to have eſcaped out
of the ſkirmiſh, falling into the power of EPASNACTUS ftarves him-
of Auvergne, a faithful friend to the Romans (for he was
often obliged to change his quarters, and truft himſelf to
feveral people, becauſe he knew it dangerous to continue
long in any place after he had rendered himſelf fo odious livered up
to CESAR) without the leaft heſitation was delivered up by Epafnac-
to juſtice.
felf.
Luterius de-
tus.
Labienus's
45. In the mean time LABIENUS's cavalry had met
with good fuccefs in Treves, where they killed feveral of ſucceſs in
the natives and Germans, who were always ready to affift Treves.
againſt the Romans, and took feveral of their chief officers
prifoners; amongſt which number was SURUS of Autun,
a man of equal birth and courage, and the only perſon of
his country then in arms againſt the Romans.
46. CAESAR perceiving how well his affairs fucceeded
in all parts, and confidering that the former fummers ex-
peditions had fubdued the Celtick and Belgick Gauls, but
that he had never vifited Gafcoigne in perfon, having only
made fome fmall acquifitions there by P. CRASSUS, march- Cæfar
ed thither with two legions, to paſs there the rest of the marches inte
ſeaſon. This, like his other defigns, he accompliſhed with Gaſcoigne.
as much fuccefs as difpatch; for all the ftates of Gafcoigne The country
fent embaffadors to him, and delivered hostages. He then fubmits.
proceeded with a guard of cavalry to Narbon, and diſtri-
Cæfar goes
buted his army under the command of his lieutenants into to Narbon.
their winter-quarters; four legions with M. ANTONY, C. Sends the
TREBONIUS, P: VATINIUS, and Q TULLIUS, he de- legions into
tached to Belgium; two others he quartered in Autun,
which he knew to be the most powerful country in Gaul;
two more he ſent to Tours, on the borders of Chartres, to
keep the maritime countries on that fide in obedience; and
two he placed in Limoufin, near the borders of Auvergne,
that no part of Gaul might have an opportunity of re-
belling. Having fpent a few days at his government, held the ftates in
the convention of the ftates, determined the differences of his govern-
the people, and diſtributed rewards to the meritorious (for ment, then
O 2
their winter-
quarters.
Holds a con-
vention of
returns to
he Arras.
196
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN he had a perfect knowledge of every man's behaviour du-
GAUL. ring the general revolt of the Gauls, which he ſuppreſſed by
اني
fue Comius.
the fole fidelity and affiftance of the province) he returned
to Belgium, and took up his winter-quarters at Arras.
CHAP. XI.
47. HERE he was informed that COMIUS of Arras
had had an engagement with his cavalry; for when ANTO-
NY came to take up his quarters in Arras, which continued
loyal, COMIUS, who was always accuſtomed to head any
rebellion his countrymen were inclined to, that they might
not want a leader while they were in fubjection to the Ro-
mans, after he had received the wound we mentioned,
ſupported himſelf and his cavalry by plunder, intercepting
feveral convoys of corn which were going to the Roman
garrifons.
48. C. VOLUSENUS QUADRATUS, commander of the
horſe under ANTONY, was quartered with him, and de-
Volufenus tached by him to purfue the enemy's cavalry. VOLUSE-
fent to pur-NUS very readily accepted the office; for befides the con-
ſtant defire he had of glory, he bore a mortal hatred to co-
MIUS: wherefore having laid feveral ambuſcades, he often
obtained advantages over him. But at laft the difpute grow-
ing very warm, and VOLUSENUS defiring to apprehend
COMIUS, he purſued too ardently with a few followers;
the other filed as eagerly, till he had drawn him from his
party; then on a fudden, conjuring his men not to ſuffer
the wound he had received from the Romans treachery to
go unrevenged, he faced about, and out-riding the reſt of
his company, made towards vOLUSENUS: his men fol-
lowed after, and being much fuperior in number to ours,
obliged them to retreat: during the purfuit, coмIUS clap-
ping spurs to his horſe, ran with a full career againſt QUA-
Quadratus. DRATUS, and ftruck him through the thigh with his fpear..
Our men perceiving their captain was wounded, rallied
his party again, forced the enemy to give ground, and charged fo
brifkly, that they wounded feveral, and routed the reſt;
fome were difmounted in the purfuit, and trodden under¸
foot; others taken prifoners, which misfortune COMIUS
efcaped by the fwiftnefs of his horfe: But VOLUSEN US,
being dangerously wounded, almoft beyond hope of reco-
very, was carried back to the camp. COMIUS having thus
either revenged the injury he had received, or loſt the
greateſt part of his men, fent embaſſadors to ANTONY,
Comius
wounds
Comius and
routed.
to
1
Book VIII.
197
COMMENTARIES.
GAUL.
to let him know he would deliver hoftages for his future WAR IN
obedience, that he would live where, and in what manner
he ſhould think fit to preſcribe, provided he would ſo far Comius fur.
indulge his fear, as that he need not be obliged to behold renders.
the face of any Roman. ANTONY thought his apprehen-
fions fo justly grounded, that he accepted his hoftages,
and granted his defire.
CHAP. XII.
laft cam-
paign.
CÆSAR, I know, has divided each year's campaign Hirtius's
into ſeparate books, which I have not thought neceffary, proem to the
fince in the following year, under the confulat of L. PAUL-
LUS and C. MARCELLUS, nothing memorable was tranſacted
in Gaul: however, that the world might not be ignorant
where CÆSAR and his army were during this time, I have
added a ſhort account to the preſent Commentary.
49. Whilſt CESAR paffed his winter in Belgium, he
made it his chief buſineſs to keep the ſeveral ſtates in amity,
to take away all hopes of another revolt; for he defired to
bring the country into fo peaceable a condition, that he
ſhould not be obliged to make war at his departure, left
when he marched his army away, there might be fome
embers left, which the Gauls would willingly blow up,
when they apprehended no prefent danger, Wherefore
treating each country very honourably, making the noble-
men confiderable prefents, and impofing no new taxes, he
eaſily kept the kingdom of Gaul in obedience by his gentle
ufage, already tired out with fo many, and fo fucceflefs
efforts.
50. The winter being over, contrary to his cuftom, he Cæfar goes
took poft for Lombardy, to viſit the chief towns, and Ro- into Lom-
man colonies there, to whom he had recommended his bardy.
quæftor M. ANTONY's fuit for the priesthood; being the
more ſtudious of gaining the people's affections, not only
for the fake of his particular friend, whom he had ſent not
long before to make intereft for that office, but to oppofe
a fmall faction, who defigned, through the repulfe of AN-
TONY, to wound CÆSAR's credit upon quitting his pro-
vince. And though he was informed upon the road, be-
fore he arrived in Lombardy, that ANTONY was already
made augur, ftill he thought it neceflary to continue his
journey, that he might return thanks to the chief towns
and colonies for appearing and voting for his friend; as
0 3
likewife
198
Book VIII.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR IN likewiſe that he might fecure their intereft on his own be-
CAUL. half for the honour he defigned to be candidate for the en-
He is recci-
ved with
great de-
of joy.
fuing year; and this the rather becauſe his enemies made
their boaft that L. LENTULUS and C. MARCELLUS had
been created confuls, on purpoſe to ſtrip CESAR of all his
honours and dignities: and SERGIUS GALBA put by (not-
withſtanding he had the majority of votes) for being his pro-
feffed friend, and having ferved under him as his lieutenant.
51. CESAR was received with wonderful refpect and
affection wherever he came, for this was the first time of
monftrations his return from the general revolt of Gaul; nothing was
omitted that the people could invent for the ornament of the
gates, roads, and ways through which he was to pafs; fa-
crifices were offered
up in
in every place; all the people came
out to meet him with their children; the temples and mar-
ket-places were adorned with carpets, and you would have
imagined preparations had been made for a glorious triumph;
fo great was the magnificence of the richer, and defire of
the poorer fort, to exprefs their fatisfaction.
He makes
Labienus
of
Lombardy.
at Rome
against Cæ-
far.
52. Having quickly vifited all parts of Lombardy, he
returned with great diſpatch to Arras, and drawing his le-
gions out of their quarters to the borders of Treves, went
thither to review them: after which he made T. LABIENUS
governor of Lombardy, that he might ſecure votes there
governor for the confulat; travelling from place to place the reſt of
of the fummer, as he thought convenient for exercife and
The factions health. Though he was often informed that LABIENUS
was follicited by his enemies, and affured there was a defign
carried on at Rome by a ſmall faction, to take away part
of his army from him, by virtue of a decree from the fenate,
yet he neither gave credit to what was reported of LABIE-
NUS, nor could be induced to do any thing contrary to the
fenate's authority: for he doubted not but he fhould gain
his defires, provided the fenators were permitted to give their
votes freely; becauſe C. CURIO, tribune of the people, who
had undertaken the defence of CÆSAR's cauſe and dignity,
had often propounded to the fenate, fince they had appre-
henfions of CESAR's army, that he and POMPEY too,
whofe over-grown power did not a little awe the courts,
might both difband their force, and lay down their arms,
that the city might be entirely free: nor did he only pro-
pound this, but began to take the votes of the houfe upon
it; but the confuls, and POMPEY's friends, to prevent any
further progrefs, interpoled, fo that they broke up without
coming to any refolution.
$3. This
Book VIII.
199
COMMENTARIES.
53. It was a ſtrong argument of the ſenate's favour to WAR IN
CÆSAR, and agreeable to their former juſtice; that when GAUL.
MARCELLUS the year before, to diminiſh CASAR's cre-
dit (contrary to the edict of POMPEY and CRASSUs) pro-
pofed fending a fucceffor to CESAR's province before his
commiffion was expired, and took the votes of the members
upon it, the queſtion paffed in the negative in a full houſe.
Yet this did not diſcourage his enemies, but was rather an
incitement to them to ftrengthen their power that they
might bring the fenate to a compliance.
The fenate
54. Not long after the fenate decreed, that POMPEY
and CESAR fhould each detach a legion to the Parthian decree Pom-
war; but it plainly appeared both were taken from CÆSAR; pey and Cæ-
far fhall each
for the first legion which POMPEY had formerly furniſhed
fend a legion
him with, was levied in CÆSAR's province, and there-to the Par-
fore properly belonged to him: yet CASAR, though thian war.
all the world might fee the intention of his enemies, ſent
POMPEY that legion again; and for his own part, in obe-
dience to the fenate's decree, fent the fourth legion, which
was quarter'd in Lombardy, to Parthia. So that to ſupply its
place, he detached the thirteenth to Italy. After this he dif
perfed his army into their winter-quarters; c. TREEONIUS,
with four legions, he placed in Belgium; C. FABIUS, with
as many, in Autun; for he thought it the ſecureft way to
keep the Gauls in fubjection, to fet a guard upon the cou-
rage of the Belgæ, and the authority of the Autunois.
55. After this, he went himſelf to Lombardy, where
he was informed the two legions he had difmiffed, which
according to the decree of the fenate fhould have been fent
to the Parthian war, were given, by the conful c. Mar-
CELLUS, to POMPEY, and quartered ftill in Italy. Tho'
this was an undeniable proof that CASAR's enemies pre-
pared to make war upon him, yet he firmly refolved to
endure all things, fo long as there was any hope left of
compofing them by a civil determination, rather than have
recourſe to the fword.
The End of CESAR's war with the Gauls,
C. J. CÆ-
04
C. J. CESAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF THE
CIVIL WAR.
Becauſe this book begins abruptly, DIONYSIUS VOS
SIUS bas, in his remarks, collected out of PLU
TARH, APPIAN and DIO, as much as was necef
fary to make a connection between this and the for
mer Commentary; which I have rendered into
Engliſh, but marked with an inverted comma, te
diftinguish it from the text.
The CONTENTS of the FIRST BOOK.
The causes of the civil war. CESAR gains the pof
feffion of all Italy. Befieges POMPEY in Brun-
dufium. Takes the town, but POMPEY efcapes.
CESAR's party prevails against COTTA in Sardi-
nia, and CATO in Sicily. CÆSAR marches to
Rome. Returns to Gaul. Then befieges Marſeilles.
His fuccefs in Spain.
.
Cæfar writes
to Rome to 66
C
VOSSIUS's fupplement.
ESAR having now fubdued the whole king-
dom of Gaul, for feveral reafons went to his
get his com- 66
province; from whence he fent deputies to
miffion re-
"Rome, to obtain the confulat, and get his commiffion
new'd, and
to obtain the renewed: when his demands were propounded, POM-
"PEY neither oppofed nor furthered the motion, for
confulat.
"though
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Book I.
201
COMMENTARIES.
C
"though he was averfe to CESAR's intereft, he had not CIVIL
"yet profeffed himſelf his open enemy. But the confuls, WA R.
LENTULUS and MARCELLUS, who had already de-
❝clared in favour of the oppofite faction, left nothing
"omitted to diſappoint him: nor was this the only injury
"MARCELLUS did him, for CESAR had lately planted
"a colony at Novo-Comum, and MARCELLUS, not
❝contented to deprive them of the freedom of Rome,
"committed their mayor, nay, ordered him to be whipped,
" and then difmiffed to make his complaints to CÆSAR;
"an ignominy never yet inflicted on any Roman citizen.
"Whilft theſe affairs were in agitation, c. CURIO, tri-
"bune of the people, who had done his utmoſt to ſerve
"the republick, and promote CESAR's cauſe, at laft
finding all his endeavours in vain, fled from Rome to
"avoid the malice of his adverfaries, and to inform CA-
<< SAR of his enemies defigns against him. CESAR re Curio comes
❝ceived very kindly a perſon of CURIO's quality and me- to Cæfar.
"rit, and returned him thanks for the many friendly of- His advice.
"fices he had done him. CURIO adviſed him, fince his
"enemies openly prepared to make war upon him, im-
"mediately to draw his army together, and reſcue the
"republick out of the hands of that faction, under whofe
❝tyranny it laboured. But though CESAR was convinced
of the truth of CURIO's report, yet he refolved to de-
"monftrate fo particular a regard to the republick, that
"no man might juftly accufe him of being the caufe of a
"civil war in it; therefore he only follicited for leave to
"continue in the government of the Roman province of
"Italy and Illyricum with two legions: which he did to
"compromife the differences betwixt him and his ene-
mies in an amicable manner, and preferve the repub-
lick in peace. Theſe demands were fo reaſonable, that
" even POMPEY himſelf could not oppoſe them; but at
to the fenate.
laft, CESAR finding he could meet with no juſtice
"from the confuls, writ a letter to the fenate, wherein Cæfar writes
having briefly enumerated the meritorious actions he
❝ had done for the republick, he intreated them that he
"might have liberty to put up for conful the enfuing
year, without appearing in perfon at Rome: he affured
them he ſhould not refuſe to difband his army, if the
"fenate and people commanded him, provided POMPEY
"would do the like; but fo long as the other kept his for-
ces ftanding, there was no reafon he ſhould diſmiſs his
"foldiers, and leave his perfon expofed to the malice of
"his
202
Book I.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
1
CIVIL" his enemies. This letter he committed to CURIO's
WAR. charge, who made ſo much hafte to deliver it, that he
❝ arrived at Rome (160 miles diftant from the place where
" he took horſe) within three days, which was before the
"beginning of January, and e'er the confuls had come to
$6 a final refolution concerning the renewal of CESAR'S
"commiffion. Being arrived, he kept the letter by him
"till it could be read in full fenate, when the tribunes of
"the people were prefent, being apprehenfive it might
"be fuppreffed, if deliver'd at another time."
Curio deli-
vers the let-
ter.
CHAP. I.
THE confuls having received CÆSAR's letter, were
unwillingly prevailed on by the importunity of the tribunes
of the people, to fuffer it to be read in open fenate; but
would not permit his demands to be put to the vote. The
confuls propoſed that the means for preferving the peace of
the republic fhould be the ſubject of their prefent debate.
Upon which the conful L. LENTULUS faid, he ſhould not
be wanting either to the fenate or people, provided they
would deliver their fentiments freely; but if they ftood in
awe of CÆSAR, or were defirous to oblige him as formerly,
he knew what methods to take, and would not regard
their authority; for he could as eaſily find means to render
himſelf acceptable to CÆSAR as any of them. SCIPIO
ſpoke much to the fame purpofe, adding, that POMPEY
would not be wanting to the common-wealth, if the ſe-
nate would ſtand by him; but if they would not take vi-
gorous refolutions, they might hereafter implore his aid in
vain.
1
2. As the fenate was held in the city, and POMPEY
not far out of it, this fpeech of SCIPIO feemed to come
from the very mouth of POMPEY. But fome declared their
minds with more moderation, amongſt which number was
MARCELLUS, who faid, in his opinion, it was not proper
for the fenate to deliberate on this affair, before they had
levied a confiderable army in Italy, under whofe protec-
tion they might vote impartially. M. CALIDIUS was for
fending POMPEY to his government, to take away the
occafion of difcord; for, he faid, CAESAR had reafon to think
a Literis a FABIO, c. redditis, &c. Vossius is pofitive (a FABIO c.) must
be an interpolation: and though they who have rendered CESAR into other
languages, and the niceſt Latin criticks have acquiefced in this lection, yet it
muſt certainly be a palpable error, for the letters were delivered by CURIQ;
POMPEY was then proconful, and could not come into the city.
him.felf
Book I.
203
COMMENTARIES.
himſelf in danger, while POMPEY kept the two legions CIVIL
which had been taken from him, near the city. M. RUFUS WAR.
differed but little from CALIDIUS, but they were all fe-
verely reprimanded by LENTULUS, who pofitively refuſed
to put CALIDIUS's motion to the vote; upon which MAR-
CELLUS was fo frightened, that he recanted what he had
faid. Thus the majority of the fenate being intimidated
by the conful's fpeech, by POMPEY's army and friends, at
laſt unwillingly and with compulfion, fubmitted to SCIPIO's
motion: "That if CÆSAR did not diſband his army by a dered to dif
day prefixed, he fhould be proclaimed a traitor." But M. band his ar-
ANTONY and Q. CASSIUS, tribunes of the people, inter-
b
poſed their authority, to prevent the paffing of this vote; bunes oppoſe
upon which their prerogative was likewife difputed; the it.
debate was managed with abundance of heat, and he that
ſpoke with the greateſt virulence, was moſt applauded by
the enemies of CÆSAR.
CHA P. II.
Cæfar or
my.
The Tri-
3.
THUS the fenate broke up in the evening, with-
out coming to any determination; and POMPEY having
fent for thoſe of them who were of his faction commended
the forward, exhorting them to continue in their refolu-
tions; and reproved the more moderate; he ſent for many,
who, having formerly ferved under him, obeyed his fum-
mons, in hopes of reward and dignities; and commanded
likewiſe ſeveral out of the two legions, which had been
returned by CÆSAR, to attend his orders on the day for
choofing new magiftrates. The ſtreets were crouded, at the elec-
and CURIO called out the tribunes of the people to be pre- tion of ma-
ſent at the election: but all the confuls friends, POMPEY's giftrates.
dependants, and thoſe who bore CESAR any ancient
grudge, flocked into the fenate; by whofe concourfe and
yotes the weak were frightened into their meaſures, the
irrefolute confirmed in them, and almoſt every one was
precluded from a fredom of choice.
<
L. PISO the cenfor, and L. ROSSIUS the prætor, prof-
fered to go to CÆSAR, and acquaint him with the ſtate of
affairs, defiring only fix days reſpite to compleat their ne-
gociation; and others propofed that deputies fhould be ſent
to acquaint CÆSAR with the pleaſure of the fenate.
b For the tribuncs had a negative vote.
c A corrupt paffage in the original: the moſt ingenious emendation is that
of Dr. Jurin, Complentur curie aditus & comitium tribunis militum, cen-
turionibus, evocatis, &c. i. e. the paffages to the place of election were filled
with military tribunes, centurions, and volunteers.
4. All
The tumults
204
Book I.
C. 'J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL 4. All theſe were over-ruled by the ſpeeches of the confuls,
WAR. of SCIPIO, and CATO. The latter of theſe was actuated
by the old enmity he bore to CESAR, and by a fpirit of
mies. revenge for having been diſappointed of the prætorſhip;
LENTULUS, by the hopes of paying his debts with the
Lentulus. profitable command of armies, the government of pro-
Cæfar's ene-
Cato.
Scipio.
vinces, and the prefents he expected from thofe mo-
narchs for whom he fhould procure the title of friends to
the Roman people. He had the vanity even to boaft a-
mongſt his own party, that he doubted not but to make
himſelf a fecond SYLLA, and obtain the fupreme authority
in the commonwealth. SCIPIO was prompted with the
like expectations of armies and provinces, which he pro-
miſed himſelf he ſhould ſhare with his fon-in-law POMPEY;
with the apprehenfion of being called to account for his
extortions; with the flattery of his dependants, and the au-
thority of his friends, who bore a confiderable fway in the
Pompey. commonwealth and courts of judicature. POMPEY incited.
by CÆSAR's adverfaries, and by his own temper, which
could not bear an equal in dignity, had broke off all man-
ner of friendſhip with him, and joined with their common
enemies, the greateſt part of whom he had raiſed againſt
CÆSAR during the affinity between them. On the other
hand, the reflection on that difhonourable action, of con-
verting thoſe two legions to his own uſe, which ſhould have
been detached to the Afian and Syrian wars, induced him
to contrive all means for promoting a civil war.
:
5. Thus all things were carried on with violence and
confufion CÆSAR'S friends had not leifure to acquaint
him with the pofture of affairs, nor the tribunes to avoid.
the impending danger, by interpofing that authority which
SYLLA had left them, to defend the people's liberty: in
fine, they were obliged the feventh day after the entrance
upon their charge, to provide for their fafety; whereas the
moft feditious tribunes, before that time, were never ob-
liged to render an account of their actions, till the eighth
month of their adminiftration. POMPEY's faction had re-
courſe to that rigid decree of the fenate, which never ufed
to be put in execution, but when the city was on fire, and
The fenate's all things in a defperate condition: "That the confuls,
prætors, tribunes of the people, and proconfuls, fhould take
care to preſerve the commonwealth from danger." The
decree.
• For viiith month probably ſhould be read xii. viz. at the expiration of
their office.
5
order
Book I.
205
COMMENTARIES.
:
f
The tri-
order for enforcing this decree bore date the fixth of Ja- CIVIL
nuary; fo that during the five firſt days of LENTULUS'S WAR.
confulfhip, whilst it was lawful for the fenate to fit (except
two which had been allowed for the election of magiftrates) bunes fly to
dreadful refolves were pronounced againſt CÆSAR and the Cæfar in 2
tribunes of the people, men of great worth and honour cart, dif-
guis'd like
whereupon they fled to CASAR, who was then at Ravenna,
expecting a ſuitable anſwer to his modeſt demands, which
he hoped might have reduced all differences to a peaceable
ſtate amongſt men of the ſmalleſt equity.
CHA P. III.
6. THE day after, the fenate affembled without the A fenate
walls of the city; where POMPEY, according to the in-held without
ſtructions he had already given SCIPIO, applauded their the city.
conftancy and refolution; acquainted them with the num-
ber of his forces, that he had ten legions already in arms
to defend them; affured them, he was very well fatisfied,
CÆSAR's army was not well affected to him, and that it
would not be in his power to perfuade them to follow, or
affiſt him. After this, he propoſed ſeveral other things to
the determination of the fenate; firft, that forces might be
levied throughout all Italy; that FAUSTUS SYLLA might
be ſent proprætor to Mauritania; that POMPEY might
have money delivered to him out of the publick treaſury;
and that king JUBA might have the title of friend and ally
to the people of Rome. But MARCELLUS oppoſed the
laft of theſe; and PHILIPPUS, the tribune of the people,
prevented the paffing of SYLLA's commiffion, but the other
motions were agreed to. Two confular provinces were
decreed to thoſe who had formerly diſcharged that office,
SCIPIO got the government of Syria, and DOMITIUS of
Gaul: but the pretenfions of PHILIPPUS and MARCEL-
LINUS were over-ruled by the prevailing faction. All the
reft were prætorian provinces, to which governors were
now fent without the privity or approbation of the people;
for having taken the ufual oath, they departed to their fe-
veral commands in a military habit, without further cere-
mony contrary to the practice of all former ages. The
confuls left Rome, private men had Lictors marched be-
f For vii id. Jan. ſhould probably be read viii id. Jan. i. e. Jan. 6. becauſe
out of the five firſt days of Jan. the third and fourth were comitial days, as
was likewife vii id, or Jan. 7. when the ſenate could not regularly be held.
g Read, paludatique, votis nuncupatis, excant, quod ante id tempus acciderat
unquam, confules ex urbe proficifcuntur, &c, Davies,
fore
206
Book I.
C. J. CESAR'S
CIVIL fore them in the city and capitol, new levies were made
WAR. through all Italy; each municipal town was commanded to
furnish a certain quantity of arms and money; nor were
the temples free from this tax, which made no diftinction
between things divine and human.
Cæfar's
Soldiers.
CHA P. IV.
7. CÆSAR, having notice of theſe affairs, made a
fpeech to his fpeech to his foldiers, whercin " he gave them an account
how induftrious his enemies had always been to injure him;
that they had made a difference between him and POMPEY,
who envied CÆSAR'S glory and good fortune, though he
always promoted POMPEY's honour. He complain'd of
innovations in the ftate, that the authority of the tribunes
of the people ſhould be oppofed by arms, and depreſſed by
thoſe, who not many years before reſtored it; for even
SYLLA himſelf, who ftripp'd the tribunes of fo many pre-
rogatives, yet left them a negative vote; which POMPEY,
who pretended to renew their ancient liberties, would now
deprive them of. That the decree for the magiftrates to
provide for the fafety of the republick, whereby all people.
were obliged to repair to their arms, was never known to
be put in practice, but in cafes of imminent danger, when
pernicious laws were made; when the tribunes rebelled ;
the people revolted, and the temples, or places of ftrength,
were poffeffed by enemies of the ſtate; crimes which poſte-
rity had been deterred from by the fate of SATURNINUS
and the GRACCHI. But nothing like this was in agitation
now, or even thought of; no law was publiſhed, no con-
fpiracy was going forward, nor any revolt made. Where-
fore he defired them, that they would defend the honour
and reputation of their general againſt the malice of his ene-
mies, under whofe command they had ferved nine years,
and after many fuccefsful battles had fubdued all Gaul and
The foldiers Germany." The foldiers of the thirteenth legion, which
he had fent for at the beginning of the troubles, and which
was then preſent (the others having not yet left their quar-
ters) unanimously cried out, that they would defend their
general and the rights of the people.
refolve to
ftand by
him.
Cæfar
CHAP.
V.
8. CÆSAR being affured of the foldiers affections,
marches to marched directly with that legion to Rimini, where the tri-
Arminium, bunes of the people expected him; and on his arrival, fent
orders
་
Book I.
207
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
Pompey's
orders for all the other legions to attend him. Young L. CIVIL
CESAR, whofe father was a lieutenat-general in CÆSAR'S
army, came hither to wait on him; and after having ac-
quainted him with the occafion of his coming, told him he
had a private meffage from POMPEY to deliver; "who
was defirous to clear himſelf fo far, that CASAR might meffage to
not think thoſe actions defigned to affront him, which Cæfar by
were done for the fervice of the republick; the good of L. Cæfar.
which he always preferred before his private intereſt: and
CÆSAR was likewiſe obliged in honour to lay afide his paſ-
fion, nor be too eager to take revenge on his enemies, at
the expence of the common-wealth." Something more
he added, of his own accord, to the fame purpoſe; and
the prætor ROSCIUS had a negociation of the-like nature to Rofcius's
tranfact with CESAR on POMPEY's account.
negotiation.
Cæfar's
9. Though theſe meſſages contributed very little towards
compofing the differences, yet having an opportunity of
tranfmitting his thoughts by two fuch proper meffengers,
he begg'd the favour of them, that as they had brought
POMPEY's commands, they would likewife acquaint him
with CAESAR's defires; for poffibly fo fmail a labour might
put an end to their differences, and deliver all Italy from
her fears. "That he always preferred the honour of the answer.
Republick to his own life; but he had reaſon to be diſturb-
ed, that the affections of the Roman people fhould be alie-
nated by the malicious reports of his enemies that half a
year of his commiffion fhould be cut off, and he be com-
manded to return to Rome after the people had already voted
him leave to be candidate at the next election for the con-
fulate, though abfent; the loſs of which honour however
he could willingly fubmit to, for the advantage of the com-
mon-wealth. That his defire, in his letter to the fenate,
that other armies might be disbanded as well as his, could
not be granted; that new levies fhould be made throughout
all Italy; that the two legions which were drawn from him,
under pretence of being fent to the Parthian war, ſhould
be ſtill retained, and Rome be up in arms, were circum-
ftances which feemed to concur to his deftruction. How-
ever, he was willing to accept of any conditions, and fuf-
fer any thing for the fake of his country, let but POMPEY
go to his province; both armies be difbanded; Italy lay
down her arms; the city be delivered from her apprehen-
fions; the elections left free; the fenate and people allowed
their ancient liberty in every refpect: And to the intent
thefe conditions might be the better performed, let each
oblige
208
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book I.
CIVIL oblige himſelf by oath to obferve them: or if POMPEY
WAR. thought it more convenient, he might either come nearer
CÆSAR, or let CESAR come to him, to determine their
Lucius Cæ- differences by a conference."
Rofcius and
far depart
The Confuls
Reply.
10. ROSCIUS and L. CÆSAR having received this anſwer,
for Capua. departed for Capua, where finding POMPEY and the Con-
fuls, they delivered CASAR's meffage. After confultation
upon it, they returned this reply in writing by the fame
meſſengers: “That CÆSAR fhould leave Rimini, return
to Gaul, and difband his army; which conditions perform-
ed, POMPEY would then go to Spain. In the mean time,
till CÆSAR fhould give fecurity for the performance of his
promiſe, the confuls and POMPEY fhould not deſiſt from
raiſing men."
War in Ita-
ly.
M. Antony
tium.
11. CÆSAR thought theſe conditions very unequal; that
he fhould be obliged to leave Rimini, and return to his go-
vernment, while POMPEY held provinces, and legions which
were none of his own: that he ſhould diſmiſs his army,
whilft the other was raifing new forces; and only promifed
to go to his government, without fixing a day for his de-
parture: an evafion which would have cleared him from
breach of faith, though he went not thither till CÆSAR'S
commiffion expired. But he plainly perceived there were
no hopes of peace, becauſe they had neither appointed a time
for a conference, nor promiſed to come any nearer him.
CHAP. VI.
He
WHEREFORE he fent M. ANTONY with five co-
Sent to Are-horts to Arezzo, but ſtay'd himſelf at Rimini with two
Cæfar takes more; where he intended to beat up for volunteers.
in Pifaurum, ſoon poffeffed himſelf of Pifaro, Fano, and Ancona.
Fano, and
Ancona.
12. In the mean time, having notice that the people of
Inguvium were inclin'd to his intereft, which place the
Prætor THERMUS held againſt him with five cohorts, and
had cauſed it to be fortified; he detached three cohorts thi-
ther from Pifaro and Rimini, under the command of CURIO:
on notice of whofe approach, THERMUS, doubting the af-
fection of the people, drew his cohorts out of the town, and
fled away but the foldiers deferted in their march, and
returned home again. CURIO was received into the town
with great demonftrations of joy; on notice whereof, CA-
SAR, relying on his intereft in the moſt confiderable towns,
marches to brought the remainder of the thirteenth legion out of gar-
Olmo, or rifon, and march'd to Ofimo, a town poffeffed by ACTIUS
Curio takes
inInguvium.
Cæfar
Auximum.
:
VARUS
Book I.
209
COMMENTARIES.
VARUS with ſeveral cohorts, who had difperfed fome fena- CIVIL
tors round about the country of Piſcara to raiſe recruits.
WAR.
mit Cæfar.
13. CASAR's arrival being known, the burgeffes of m
The people
Oſmo went in a body to ACTIUS VARUS, and told him, of Ofmo re-
they would not pretend to determine which party had juftice folve to ad-
on their fide, but neither they, nor any of the municipal
towns would ſhut their gates againſt fo great a general as
CÆSAR, whoſe glorious actions had fo well merited from
the republick. Wherefore they adviſed him to confider
what would be the confequence of making oppofition, and
to provide for his fafety. Upon this declaration, VARUS Actius Va-
drew his garrifon out of the town, and marched away: rus flies a-
but being purſued by a few of CÆSAR's van-guard, was way.
obliged to halt; and fo foon as he began to engage them,
was deferted by his party; fome of them returned home,
and the reft came over to CÆSAR. Amongst the number
of the priſoners was L. PUPIUS, first centurion of a legion,
who had formerly held the fame command under POMPEY:
but CÆSAR having commended thoſe that came over to
him, difmiffed PUPIUS, returned the people of Ofmo
thanks, and promiſed never to forget the fervice they had
done him.
CHAP.
VII.
cowardice.
14. THIS news arriving at Rome, the whole city was Lentulus's
fo frightened, that when LENTULUS the conful, in pur-
ſuance of the ſenate's decree, was come to Rome, and had
opened the treaſury to deliver out POMPEY the money, he
fled from the city with fo much precipitation, that he for-
got to lock the inward and moſt facred chamber: for a falſe
report was ſpread that CÆSAR was marching that way, and
that his cavalry were already arrived within a ſmall diſtance
of Rome. MARCELLUS, the other conful, with most of
the magiftrates, followed after. POMPEY was already gone
the day before to Apulia, where he had quartered the le-
gions which he received from CÆSAR. In the mean time
the levies went not forward in Rome, for no place appeared
fecure nearer than Capua; where they firft began to rally,
and to raiſe recruits in the colonies round about, which
had been ſent thither by the Julian law. LENTULUS af-
fembling the gladiators, whom CESAR had bred up there
to entertain the people of Rome, gave them their liberty,
and mounted them for his guard. But afterwards, being
his guard.
adviſed by his friends, who all condemned the action, to
P
difmifs
He takes the
gladiacers of
Capua for
210
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL difmifs them, he difperfed them into the neighbouring towns
WAR. of Campain, to keep garrifon there.
Cæfar
makes a tour
ra, where
he is well
received.
lum attend
to Afceli,
which he
cara.
15. CÆSAR in the mean time, having quitted Ofmo,
made a tour throughout the whole country of Pifcara
thro' Pifca- where he was joyfully received by the governors of every
town, who furniſhed him with neceffary provifions for his
army. There came deputies from Cingulum (a town
Deputies founded and built by LABIENUS, at his own charge) to
from Cingu-defire he would honour them with his commands: he ac-
him. cepted of their friendſhip, and demanded recruits, which
He marches they readily fent. By this time the twelfth legion was
come up to his affiftance, and with thefe two he marched
gains.
to Aſcoli, another town of Pifcara, which was commanded
Vibullius by LENTULUS SPINTHER with ten cohorts; who, on ad-
Rufus ar-
rives in Pif. Vice of CAESAR's approach, quitted the town, and endea-
voured to retire with his forces; but was deferted by a great
part of them and marching with the remainder, by chance
met VIBULLIUS RUFUS, who had been fent by POMPEY
to encourage his party in Pifcara. VIBULLIUS thus un-
derſtanding the poſture of affairs, difmiffed LENTULUS
from his charge, took the foldiers under his command, and
affembled as many more of POMPEY's levies as he could
meet with in the neighbouring countries: amongſt the reſt,
fix entire cohorts under the command of ULCILLES HIRUS,
who had fled from Camerin, where they had been quar-
tered, Thefe forces united, amounted to thirteen cohorts,
and with them VIBULLIUS marched by long journeys to
join DOMITIUS ENOBARBUS at Corfinium; and acquaint
him CÆSAR was marching that way with two legions.
DOMITIUS had already raiſed about twenty cohorts in Al-
ba, Marfia, Pelignia, and the adjacent countries.
:
16. CÆSAR having taken in Afcoli, and driven LEN-
TULUS out of the town, caufed an enquiry to be made after
thofe foldiers that deferted him, that they might be lifted
amongſt his own troops: and having ftaid one day to provide
himſelf with corn, he march'd directly to Corfinium. Up-
on his approach, DOMITIUS detached five cohorts to break
marches to down a bridge over the river, about three miles from the
Corfinium, town; but being encounter'd by CAESAR's van-guard, they
were forc'd from the bridge, and obliged to retire to the
town by which means CESAR paffed the river, arrived
at the town, and encamped under the walls.
Cæfar
and befieges
it.
Domitius
writes to
17.
CHA P. VIII.
WHEREUPON DOMITIUS having engaged
Pompey for feveral couriers, who were well acquainted with the coun-
afliftance.
try,
4
Book I.
211
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
This Domi-
Senate had
try, by confiderable promiſes, to carry packets for him to CIVIL
POMPEY; he earnestly preſſed for fupplies, affuring him
it was an eaſy matter to inclofe CÆSAR, by the affiftance
of the narrow ways, with two armies, and cut off all his tius was the
provifions the neglect of which opportunity would necef- perfon
farily plunge him, thirty cohorts, feveral fenators and Ro- whom the
man knights, into imminent danger. In the mean while, appointed to
having encouraged his men to behave themſelves bravely, fucceed Ca-
he difpofed engines on the walls, appointed every man his far in his
particular poft, and for their encouragement, promifed each government,
private foldier four acres of land out of his own eſtate; and
the like in proportion to every centurion or volunteer.
18. Whilſt DOMITIUS was making theſe preparations,
CÆSAR had notice that the people of Sulmo were at his de-
votion, but prevented from declaring by Q. LUCRETIUS a
fenator, and ATTIUS a Pelignian, who poffefs'd the town
with a garrison of feven cohorts. This place lay about fe-
ven miles diftant from Corfinium, and CÆSAR immedi-
ately on receipt of the meffage fent M. ANTONY thither
with five cohorts of the thirteenth legion. On difcovery
of his enfigns, the Sulmonenfes opened their gates, and the
foldiers, as well as citizens, came out to welcome ANTO-
Whereupon LUCRETIUS and ATTIUS endeavoured
to make their eſcape over the wall; but the latter was
taken, and being brought to ANTONY, defired he might
be ſent to CÆSAR. Thus ANTONY having happily com-
pleated this affair, returned again the fame day with. AT-
TIUS and his troops to CESAR, who adding theſe cohorts
to his own, difmiffed ATTIUS in fafety.
NY.
The three first days, after CÆSAR fet down before Cor-
finium, were employ'd in fortifying his camp, and getting
provifions from the neighbouring towns; for here he re-
folved to expect the coming up of the reft of his army.
During this time arrived the eighth legion, with twelve co-
horts newly raiſed in Gaul, and about 300 horſe ſent him
by the king of Bavier. Upon which he made a new camp
at another part of the town, where he appointed CURIO
to command in chief. After this he began to furround
Corfinium with a rampier, on which he erected ſeveral
turrets. This work was almoft compleated, when the
couriers returned that had been ſent to POMPEY.
19. DOMITIUS having read his letter, thought proper Domitius's
to conceal the truth; and declared in council, that POM- diffimula-
PEY would immediately come to their affiftance. Where- tion.
fore he encouraged them valiantly to defend the town, and
P 2
obey
1
213
Book 1.
C. J. CESAR'S
C
I VI Lobey thoſe orders which were neceffary for defeating the
WAR. enemy's defigns and in the mean time privately confulted
with a few of his particular friends how he might fecure
his eſcape. But his countenance and ſpeech feem'd ſo dif-
ferent, his carriage appear'd fo much more confuſed than
before, his conferences in private with his friends were for
frequent, and thoſe with the general council fo rare, that
the truth could no longer be diffembled: For POMPEY,
in anſwer to his demands, had returned, "That he would
Pompey's
anſwer to not hazard the lofs of the cauſe upon fo dangerous an iſſue;
Domitius's that it was neither his defire nor advice that DOMITIUS
fhould throw himſelf into Corfinium: wherefore, if he
had an opportunity of efcaping, he would adviſe him to
quit the town, and march to join his army:" Which
CÆSAR refolved to prevent, by finiſhing his circumval-
lation.
letter.
The garrifon
mutiny.
20. DOMITIUS's defign having taken air, feveral of the
foldiers in the town about evening began to mutiny, and
ſpoke to the tribunes, centurions, and chief officers, to
this effect: "That they were befieged by CASAR, whoſe
fortifications were now almoft compleat; but their Ge-
neral, DOMITIUS, on whofe honour they depended,
when they embark'd in this cauſe, without regard to their
fafety, was meditating an efcape: wherefore they were
obliged to provide for themfelves." At first thofe of Mar-
fia, diffenting from this refolution, poffefs'd themſelves of
the ſtrongeſt part of the town: and the difpute grew fo
warm, that it almoſt came to be decided by the fword.
But not long after, being informed, by the meffengers that
pass'd between them, of DOMITIUS's defigns, which
The foldiers they were before ignorant of; they all unanimoufly agreed
feize Domi- to fecure DOMITIUS's perfon, and fend deputies to cÆ-
tius, fend to
Cæfar, and SAR, to acquaint him, they were ready to furrender at
proffer to difcretion, and deliver their General alive into his hands.
furrender at 21. On receipt of this meffage, though CESAR was not
difcretion.
ignorant of how great importance it was, to gain Corfi-
nium with as much difpatch as poffible, and unite the fol
diers to his army whilft they were in the humour to come
over to him, and before their minds received any freſh im-
preffions by large promifes, encouragements, or falfe re-
ports (for the greateſt events in war are ſubject every mo-
ment to change) yet left entering the town by night his
men might let themfelves loofe to rapine and plunder, hav-
ing returned the deputies thanks for their proffer, he fent
them back, defiring they would fecure the gates and walls,
the
Book I.
213
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
the remainder of that night, with a very strong guard :C1v1 L
and he himſelf diſpoſed his foldiers round about the works
he had begun, not at certain diſtances, as ufual, but in one
continued rank, where the centinels, touching each other,
formed a compleat circle. He ordered the horfe and foot
officers to patrol about the works, and be careful not only
to prevent fallies, but the eſcape of any particular perſon :
Nor was any man fo indolent and remiſs as to cloſe his eyes
that night, each impatiently expecting the event, and at-
tending the fate of the Corfinians, DOMITIUS, LENTU-
LUS, and the reſt of the befieged.
Lentulus
bis life.
22. About three in the morning, LENTULUS SPIN-
THER applied himſelf to our centinels from the walls, tel- Spinther
ling them he defired he might be indulged the liberty of comes to
Cæfar to beg
fpeaking with CÆSAR: which being granted, he came out
of the town, attended by fome of DOMITIUs's foldiers,
who left him not till he arriv'd in CÆSAR's preſence,
" He
entreated CASAR to pardon his life for the fake of their
former friendſhip; he freely acknowledg'd the great favours
he had formerly received from him; that by his intereft he
had been elected into the college of priefts, obtained the
province of Spain, when his prætor's charge expired; and
was affifted by him, when he was candidate for the con-
fulate." Here CÆSAR, interrupting LENTULUS, faid, "He
had not left his government to do any man a prejudice,
but to defend himſelf from the power of his enemies; to
reftore the tribunes, who had been driven out of Rome, to
their lawful dignity; and affert his liberty, and the people's,
who were opprefs'd by faction." LENTULUS, encouraged
by this anſwer, defired leave to return to the town, that
the affurance of his fafety might revive the reft of the be-
fieged, left defpair fhould oblige fome of them to enter upon
fatal refolutions; which was granted, and he departed.
h
Cæfar's an-
fwer.
Corfinium
23. When day-light appear'd, CÆSAR Commanded the
befieged to bring out all the fenators, fenators children, tri- furrenders.
bunes of the foldiers, and Roman knights: amongſt the
number of ſenators were found, L. DOMITIUS, P. LEN-
TULUS SPINTHER, L. VIBULLIUS RUFUS, SEXTUS QUIN-
TILIUS VARUS the quæftor, L. RUBRIUS, befides DOMI-
TIUS's fon, and feveral other young gentlemen, with a
great number of Roman knights and chief Burgeffes *,
*. who
* Decurio
had been fummoned to atttend DOMITIUS from the neigh- nes.
bouring towns. He protected them from the infolences of
h Which was bounded by the Rubicon that ran between Ravenna and Ri-
the
mini.
P 3
214
Book I.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
#
CIVIL the foldiers, and having in a few words reminded them of
WAR. their ingratitude, difmifs'd them all in fafety.
Cæfar re-
i
Six millions of feſterces in gold, which DOMITIUS had
turns the fix depofited in the publick treafury, were brought to CESAR
millions by the duumviri, the two fupreme magiftrates of the town;
of fefterces but he returned them to DOMITIUS, though he knew they
in gold to
Domitius,
were part of the publick treaſure, and had been delivered
which were out to POMPEY for the payment of his army; to convince
brought
the world he was as generous as merciful. He commanded
Marches the garrifon to be fworn his foldiers, having ſtay'd only fix.
thro' Abruz-days before Corfinium, decamped the feventh, when the
great part of town furrendered; and after a compleat day's march
the kingdom through the confines of Marrucini, Frentani, and Larinates,
of Naples. he arrived in Apulia.
him.
zo, and
Luceria.
Pompey flies
pus's three
cohorts de-
CHA P. IX.
24. POMPEY, on notice of what had paffed at Cor-
Canufium. finium, leaving Luceria went to Canofa, and from thence
to Brundu- to Brindifi, levying what forces he could in all parts of the
fium. country. And having armed about 300 flaves and ſhep-
Rutilus Lu-herds, he gave them horfes, and made them cavalry. In
the mean while, the Prætors, L. MANLIUS, and RUTILUS
fert to Ca- LUPUS, fled away, the firſt from Alba with fix cohorts,
far.
and the latter from Terracina, with three, who difcover-
ing CÆSAR's cavalry under the command of BIVIUS CURIUS
at a diſtance, deferted the Prætor, and came over to CÆSAR.
So the following days feveral other entire cohorts deferted
to us, fome joining our foot, and others our cavalry. C.
MAGIUS of Cremona, chief engineer to POMPEY, falling
in with a party of ours, upon the road, was taken, and
brought to CAESAR, who fent him back to POMPEY with
Cn. Magius this meflage; "That fince he had not yet obtained an op-
being taken, portunity of conferring with POMPEY, he defigned to wait
him back to upon him at Brindifi; for it was of great importance to
Pompey the commonwealth in general, and every member in parti-
with a mef-cular, that they fhould have an interview, from whence
fage,
Cæfar fends
they might be enabled to conclude a treaty; which could
not fo conveniently be agreed on, when the conditions.
were to be carried backward and forward at fome diſtance
by a third perfon."
25. Having difmiffed MAGIUS with this meffage, he
marched himſelf to Brindifi with fix legions; three com-
Seftertium fexagies, quod aurum adduxerat Domitius, i, e. about 50,000 1,
of our money. Typogr.
poled
1
1
F
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1.
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1
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to face p. 215
The Haven of Brindisi.
1
D
Å Ã
ME
B
B
A. Brindisi B. The Haven. C. TheMounts & floats of Timber Casar cast into the$ ca to block
up the mouth of the Haven. D. The Island over against the Ilavcer.
Book I.
215
COMMENTARIES.
Cæfar ar-
rives at
chium.
poſed of veteran foldiers, the others of new levies and de- C1 VIL
ferters not computing DOMITIUS's cohorts, which he WAR.
immediately detached from Corfinium for Sicily. On his
arrival he was informed that the confuls were gone to Du-
razzo with great part of the army: but POMPEY remained Brindufiom,
in the town with twenty cohorts, yet he could not be fa- Dyrra-
tisfied whether POMPEY ftay'd there for want of fhipping to
tranfport him over, or with a defign to fecure Brindifi,
that he might the more eafily command the Adriatick, the
country of Greece, and the extreme parts of Italy, and be
able to maintain the war on both fides of the gulf. However,
left POMPEY fhould think it was not in CESAR's power to
oblige him to quit Italy, he refolved to block up the haven's
mouth, and prevent all access to the town.
Which he Cæfar's...
contrived to do by raiſing two mounts on either fide the blockade at
mouth of the haven, where the paffage was narroweft, and Brindifi.
the fhores fhallow. But where the depth of water prevent-
ed works of that nature, cloſe to the mount he placed dou-
ble floats of timber, thirty foot fquare in furface, with an-
chors at each corner, to prevent their being carried away
by the waves. To this float thus fixed, he added others
to compleat the blockade; covered them all over with earth
and fafcines, that the foldiers might have the furer footing
to defend them: then raiſed a breaſt-work, and pent-
houſes all round the work, and on every fourth float built
turrets two ſtories high, to defend them from burning, and
the violence of the fhips."
the haven of
26. To interrupt thefe works, and deftroy our block-
ade, POMPEY ſent out a fquadron of large veffels that lay
in the haven, on which he erected turrets three ftories
high, and fupplied them with plenty of darts and engines.
So that there paffed daily fkirmiſhes at a diſtance with flings,
darts, and arrows: but yet CÆSAR conducted himſelf fo
prudently, as not to take away all hopes of coming to a
compofition by treaty. And though he wondered ex-
tremely that MAGIUS, whom he had fent to POMPEY,
had not yet returned with an anſwer to his meſſage; tho'
he had often attempted a treaty and delayed the execution
of his defigns in favour of one; yet, ftill not defifting from
the fame peaceable refolutions, he fent CANINIUS REBI Cæfar fenda
ĻUS, one of his lieutenants, to confer with SCRIBONIUS Rebilus to
LIBO, whofe particular friend and near relation he was,
defiring him to engage LIBO to be inftrumental in bring-
ing about a reconciliation; but above all in procuring CAE-
SAR an interview with POMPEY, from whence he hoped
P 4
they
treat with
Libo.
216
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL they might both confent on equal terms to lay down their
WAR. arms; a mediation, which would greatly redound to LIBO's
bonour, if it fhould be fo fuccefsful as to be the means of a
lafting peace, LIBO, having conferred with CANINIUS,
went immediately to POMPEY, and not long after returned
him this anfwer, "That POMPEY could not treat during
the abſence of the confuls." Thus CÆSAR, having ſo of-
ten to no purpoſe effay'd amicable meaſures, thought it
time to lay afide any further thoughts of a treaty, and to
do himſelf juſtice by the fword.
Pompey's
anfwer.
Pompey's
to Brindifi
before Ca-
are com-
pleat.
CHAP.
X.
27. CÆSAR had already ſpent nine days about his
fleet returns works, which were almoſt half compleated, when the fhips,
which had tranfported the confuls with part of the army to
far's works Durazzo, returned to Brindifi; whereupon POMPEY,
either apprehending the confequence of CÆSAR's works,
or having long before defigned to quit Italy, fo foon as the
fleet arrived, prepared for his departure. And to moderate
the fhock of CESAR's attack, left his foldiers fhould force
their way into the town whilft he was marching out, he
Pompey ſtopped up every gate, with all the ſtreets and avenues;
blocks up all cut ditches cross the ways, wherein he fixed fharp piles
the avenues and ftakes, covering the furface with turfs and hurdles,
to Brindifi; and only left two paffages open leading towards the haven,
which he fortified with ftrong palifadoes.
to go on
board.
Having thus prepared for his departure, he commanded
and prepares the foldiers to go on board without noiſe or tumult, leaving
only ſmall parties of light-arm'd archers and flingers on the
walls, and in the turrets; with orders to quit their pofts.
upon a certain fignal, fo foon as the reft of the foldiers
fhould be ſhipped off, and repair to a fafe place, where
gallies lay ready for them to embark.
28. But the befieged, who had received many injuries
and affronts both from POMPEY and his army, were well
affected to CÆSAR; and therefore fo foon as they knew
POMPEY's defigns, whilft the foldiers were preparing for
The befieged their voyage, gave CESAR notice of his departure from
give Caefar the tops of their houfes: whereupon he immediately com-
notice of it. manded his foldiers to repair to their arms, and provide
fcaling-ladders, that no time might be loft in the execu-
Pompey's tion of his defign. Not long before night POMPEY weigh'd
foldiers go anchor, when the foldiers on the wall, receiving the in-
on board, tended fignal, quitted their ftations, and arrived at the place
and weigh
where
anchor,
Book I.
217
COMMENTARIES.
k
WAR.
where the gallies attended them. CESAR's foldiers in the CIVIL
mean while had ſcaled the walls, and being adviſed by the
befieged to beware of the piles, which had been fixed by
POMPEY's order in the ditches, made a halt, and were
at laft conducted by a long circuit to the haven; where,
by the affiftance of fome fmall boats, they feized two of
POMPEY'S veffels, which ftuck upon CÆSAR's mounts.
CHA P. XI.
29. THOUGH CESAR was fully perfuaded how much
it would conduce towards a fpeedy determination of the
war, to equip a fleet, and follow POMPEY croſs the ſeas,
before he could have an opportunity of joining his tranſma-
rine allies; yet he confidered the time it would require to
enable him to do it, becauſe POMPEY had taken all the
ſhipping in the harbour along with him, whereby he had
effectually prevented an immediate purfuit; fo that CÆSAR
had no other means left, but to attend the arrival of a
navy from remote countries, as Gaul, Ancona ¹, and the
Streights, which the feafon of the year would render tedious.
and troubleſome. On the other hand he thought it might
prove of ill confequence to his affairs, that POMPEY's ve-
teran army, and the two provinces of Spain (one of which
had been infinitely obliged to POMPEY for many fignal fa-
vours) fhould be confirm'd in his intereft; that the enemy
ſhould have an opportunity of raifing more horfe, or fol-
liciting Gaul and Italy to forfake him during his abſence,
30. Wherefore he refolved at prefent to defift from pur-
fuing POMPEY, and make an expedition into Spain.
Cæfar re-
Having ordered the chief burgeffes of the municipal towns
to provide ſhipping, and fend them to Brindifi; he fent lieu- folves to go
tenant VALERIUS with one legion to Sardinia; and Cu- to Spain.
RIO, the proprætor, into Sicily with three more; com-
manding him, ſo ſoon as he ſhould have rendered himſelf
maſter of the iſland, to tranſport his army into Africk.
MARCUS COTTA was governor of Sardinia, M. CATO
of Sicily; and Africk fhould have fallen to TUBERO's lot.
The people of Cagliari, on notice of VALERIUS's expedi-
tion, of their own accord, before he had left Italy, expel-
led COTTA out of their town, who was not a little fur-
prized at this ufage; but perceiving the whole iſland was
concerned in it, he left Sardinia, and efcaped to Africk.
k Vallum Cæcum, which feems to be much the fame with the lillies at
the fiege of Alife.
1 For Ancona is the chief port of the Pifeni,
Sends Va-
lerius to Sar-
dinia, Curio
to Sicily.
The Sardi-
nians expel
M. Cotta.
In
#
218
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
C
WAR.
125.
I VI LIn the mean while CATO made great preparations; he gave
orders for refitting the old gallies in Sicily, for building
new, and difperfed his lieutenants to raife forces amongſt
Care's pre- the Roman citizens in Lucania and Brutia, commanding
parations for
every diſtrict in his government to furniſh him with a par-
ticular quota of horfe and foot. His levies were almoſt
compleated, when he received news of CURIO's arrival;
whereupon he publickly complained, that he had been be-
trayed by POMPEY, who had plung'd the republick into
an unneceffary war, affuring him and the reſt of the fenate,
that he had taken care for all kind of neceffary provifions,
whereas he had provided nothing. Having thus declared his
Cato's cow-mind, he likewife abdicated his province, as COTTA had
ardice. done before.
gains Sardi-
Sicily.
Valerius 31. Thus VALERIUS found Sardinia, and CURIO Sicily,
nia Curio without a governor, when they landed their armies there.
TUBERO, on his arrival in Africk, found the country.
appointed of commanded by ACTIUS VARUS; who, as we have already
his govern- remarked, having loft his cohorts at Ofmo, had immedi-
ment,
Tubero dif-
Calar goes
ately returned into Africa, and without commiffion pof-
feffed himſelf of the government, which he found vacant.
Here, by the intereft and knowledge he had of the people
and country, he foon levied two legions; for not long be-
fore, he had governed that province, after the expiration of
his Prætorfhip. TUBERO arrived at Utica with his fleet,
but was prohibited entring either the town or haven by va-
RUS, who denied him the liberty of fetting his fon afhore
at that time under a fit of fickneſs, and obliged TUBERO,
without further delay, to weigh anchor, and be gone.
CHA P. XII.
32. THESE affairs thus difpatched, that his foldiers
o Rome, might have ſome reſpite from fatigue, CESAR difpofed them
and calls a into the neareſt municipal towns, and went to Rome:
fenate,
His fpeech.
where having called a fenate, he laid before them an ac-
count of the injuries he had received from his enemies. He
told them, " He never had afpired to extraordinary digni-
ties, and, content to have waited the prefcribed interval of
time for the confulate, defired only thofe privileges which
were common to every citizen: that a decree had been
paffed by ten tribunes, empowering him, tho' abſent, to
be a candidate, in fpite of the oppofition made by his ene-
mies, but eſpecially by CATO, who, according to his uſual
cuftom, took up, in tedious harangues, fome of the comitial
days entire: a decree, I fay, was made while POMPEY him-
felf
Book I.
219
COMMENTARIES.
felf was conful, who might have prevented its paffing, had CIVIL
he difapprov'd it: but if he then thought convenient to al- WAR.
low it, CESAR knew no reafon why he fhould afterwards
deprive him of the benefit of the people's affections. As
for him, he had given fufficient proofs of his patience, fince
of his own accord he had propofed, that both parties ſhould
lay down their arms; which might have been of fatal con-
fequence to his honour and dignity. But fuch was the ma-
lice of his enemies, that they refuſed to comply with thoſe
propofitions which they made to others; rather choofing to
plunge all things into confufion, than part with the com-
mand of armies. Here likewife he enlarged on the injuf-
tice they had done, in taking away two of his legions; their
cruel and infolent behaviour in violating the authority of
the tribunes; his repeated offers of peace and a conference,
which could never be granted. Wherefore he deſired and
conjured them, to take the Republick into their protection,
and affift him to govern it: but if their fears perfuaded them
to decline the proffer, he ſhould not much importune them
to accept it; for he would affume the fole adminiſtration
into his own hands. However, in the mean while, it was
neceffary to ſend embaffadors to treat about a compofition;
for he valued not POMPEY's opinion, which he had lately
declared in the fenate, that fending embaffadors to any one
neceffarily imply'd a greater power and pre-eminence in the
perſon they were fent to, and apparent fear in the fender;
fince his foul was acted by fuperior maxims, and as he had
endeavoured to furpafs the reft of mankind in warlike and
noble actions, fo he was ambitious of excelling in juſtice
and equity."
pro-
fent to treat
33. The fenate approved well enough of this embaffage ; Cæfar
but no deputies could be found. For POMPEY had de- pofes, that
clared, before his departure, that he ſhould efteem thofe deputies be
who ſtay'd behind in Rome, equally guilty with thofe in with Pom-
CÆSAR's camp; which deterred every one from under- pey; but no
taking the office. In fine, three days were confumed in body can be
debates and excufes; for the tribune, LUCIUS METEL-
LUS ", had been engaged by the contrary faction to protract
the time, and oppoſe whatever CESAR should offer.
m This METELLUS was the perfon that oppofed CESAR's taking the pub-
lick treaſure, till his malice fubmitted to his fear; but our author has omitted.
this paffage, for which reafon fome criticks have taxed him with want of in-
tegrity. I fhould rather attribute this omiffion to forgetfulness, fince we
have fo ftrong an argument of his plain dealing in his fpeech just before. CE-
SAR Certainly wanted not the courage to arow all his actions to pofterity; and
he who mistakes him for fo fhallow a politician, as to think he imagined he
could fupprefs the memory of this, by leaving it out of his Commentarics,
must be a very great ftranger to his character.
CHAP.
found to go.
220
Book I,
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
CHAP. XIII.
CESAR perceiving their defigns, after fome days fpent
WAR. to no purpoſe, that he might loſe no more, quitted Rome,
leaving the defigns uneffected, which brought him thi-
ther, and went into the further Gaul,
Cæfar leaves
Rome, goes
to the fur-
34. On his arrival there, he was informed that POMPEY
ther Gaul. had fent VIBULLIUS RUFUS into Spain; who not long be-
fore had been taken at Corfinium, and difmiffed; that DO-
MITIU's was gone to Marſeilles with eight gallies fitted out
at Igilium and Cofa, mann'd by his own fervants, infran-
chifed flaves and plough-men: and that POMPEY, before
his departure from Rome, having fecured feveral young no-
blemen of Marfeilles in his intereft, had fent them thither
to prevent the former offices of friendſhip he had done them
from being blotted out of their memory, by thofe they had
fince received from CÆSAR. On receipt of this meſſage,
the people of Marfeilles called in their ancient allies, the
Albici, to their affiftance (a barbarous people, that inhabit
the mountains round about their country) fet up forges to
make arms, got provifions from the neighbouring fields and
caftles, repaired their walls and gates, refitted their navy,
and refuſed to give CÆSAR admittance into their town.
Marfeilles
Shuts her
gates againſt
Cæfar.
Strabo 1. 4.
teen were a
particular
Venice.
with the
35. Wherefore having fent for fifteen of the moft confi-
derable perfons in the city, to prevent the war from begin-
Thefe fifning at Marfeilles, he advised them rather to follow the ex-
ample of all Italy, than be governed by any particular per-
magiftracy, fon; not forgetting fuch other motives as might incline them
as the coun-to embrace more prudent refolutions. The deputies return-
cil of ten at ed home and brought him this anfwer from the government;
Cæfar has a "That underſtanding the people of Rome were divided
conference into two factions, they neither had judgment nor authority
fufficient to decide whether party had juſtice on their fide;
eſpecially fince POMPEY and CÆSAR, the two patrons of
their country, headed the different factions: for they had
been obliged to the former for the revenues of the lower
Languedoc and Vivarais; and to the other, for augment-
ing their yearly tributes by a part of Gaul, after his conqueft
there. Wherefore fince they were equally indebted to them
both, they refolved to declare for neither, but ftand neu-
ter; without admitting POMPEY or CESAR into their city
or haven."
magiftrates
of Mar-
feilles.
Their an-
fwer.
Domitius
the town,
36. But whilft this treaty was in agitation, DOMITIUS
received into arriving at Marſeilles with his fleet, was received into the
made Gover-town, made governor of the place, and had the chief
management of the war committed to his charge. He
ordered the navy to cruife round the coafts, command-
nor.
ing
Book I.
221
COMMENTARIES.
ing them to feize upon all the merchants veffels they CIVIL
could find; and with the timber, nails, and tackle of fuch WA R.
as were moſt crazy, to refit the reſt. All the corn in
the city, and all kind of neceffary provifions, were laid up
in the publick arfenal, that they might be prepared for a
fiege, if CÆSAR ſhould inveſt the town.
feilles.
Whereupon CASAR, provoked by theſe injuries, Cæfar re-
marched with three legions to Marſeilles, refolved to build folves to be-
fiege Mar-
turrets, vines, and fuch other works as were neceffary to
ftorm the town; and gave orders for building twelve gal-
lies at Arles, which were fitted out, equipped with all
things neceffary, and brought to Marfeilles, within thirty
days after the timber was feiled. He made D. BRUTUS
Admiral of this fquadron, and left C. TREBONIUS to carry
on the fiege.
CHAP.
XIV.
n
C. Fab.us
with three
legions into
37. WHILST thefe preparations were going forward, Cæfar feris
CESAR fent C. FABIUS, with three " legions that were
quartered about Narbon, into Spain before him; with
orders to fecure the paffage over the Pyrenean hills as foon Spain.
as poffible, which was guarded by a party of L. AFRA-
NIUS's army: and commanded the legions that lay fur-
ther off to follow after. FABIUS, according to his or- Fabius gains
ders, made hafte to the mountains, obliged the party to the paffage
quit their poft, and from thence travelled by long marches
towards AFRANIUS's army.
38. We have already taken notice that POMPEY dif-
patched VIBULLIUS RUFUS into Spain, which he had di-
vided between AFRANIUS, VARRO, and PETREIUS,
n It ſhould be four legions. See §. 40.
• In the original 'tis AFRANIUS, PETREIUS, and VARRO, but certainly
the names must be tranfpofed; for if VARRO, who is placed the third, pof-
felfed Lufitania and Vettonum Ager, or rather Betica (for that province
is divided from the Lufitanica by the river Guadiana) what can be the mean-
ing of the following fentence, that PETREIUS fhould march with all his
forces out of Lufitania, through Bætica, to join AFRANIUS: for though
I should agree that both VARRO and PETRTIUs pofletled different parts of Lul-
tania at the fame time (for what clfe could eESAR mean by that divifion,
from the Caftilian foreft to the Guadiana) yet I cannot conceive why PETREl-
us, if he was in the northern part of Lufitania (as thall endeavour to de-
monftrate) fhould take fo unneceflary a circuit to cross the Guadiana twice,
and march through Betica to. Ilerda or Lerida in Catalonia, fince there was
no enemy to oppofe his paffage the nearer way. CESAR only divides Spain
into two provinces, the nearer and the farther; but CLUVER into three; B.e-
tica, Lufitania, and Tarraconenfis. The firft of thefe contains Granada, An-
dalufia, Eftremadura, and part of new Caftile; the fecond, Portugal, with
part of old and new Caftile; but the third, which was by much the largest,
did not only contain Murcia, Valencia, Catalonia, Arragon, Navar, Bilcay,
three
o'er the Py-
rencan hills.
22ź
C. J. CESAR'S
Book I.
Saltus Ca-
Ana.
Vetronum
Agrum.
Lufitania,
CIVI
I VIL three of his lieutenants: the first of theſe commanded the
WAR. nearer Spain, with three legions; the fecond, from the
Caftilian foreft to the river Guadiana, with two; the
ftulonenfis. third, Bætica, and all the fouthern parts of Portugal, from
the river Guadiana to the fea, with the like number. On
VIBULLIUS's arrival it was refolved, that PETREIUS
ſhould march with all his forces out of Lufitania through
Bætica, to join AFRANIUS; whereupon PETREIUS be-
gan to levy both horfe and foot in Lufitania, as AFRA-
NIUS did in Celtiberia, Cantabria, and thofe other barba-
rous countries towards the northern fea. PETREIUS ha-
ving compleated his levics, immediately marched through
Bætica to AFRANIUS, and both refolved to make Lerida
the feat of war, becauſe the country lay fo convenient for
their purpoſe.
Afranius
Scutati and
39. We have already obferved that AFRANIUS had
and Petreius three legions, PETREIUS two, bcfides theſe, they had le-
their forces: vied about eighty cohorts of fmall and large target-bearers
Cetrati. in both the provinces of Spain, with near 5000 cavalry.
CÆSAR, on the other hand, had fent his legions into
Viz. The Spain, with 6000 auxiliary foot, and 3000 horfe, which
legions that had ferved under him during all his former wars, and he
to follow af- was furniſhed with the like number of volunteers from the
ter Fabius. feveral ftates of Gaul, the flower of their country; but
the moſt warlike of theſe were the highlanders of Gaf-
coigne. Having notice that POMPEY was marching with
Cæfar's po- his legions through Africk to Spain, and would e'er long
licy in bor- arrive there, CESAR borrowed money from the chief of-
had orders
Afturia, Gallæcia, and Leon, but alſo part of both Caftiles. This Provincia
Terraconenfis, which is all one with the nearer Spain, you perceive, was en-
tirely engroffed by AFRANIUS; PETREIUS, at the fame time, commanded
the Provincia Batica with Lufitania, that is, the fouthern parts of Lufitania;
for if he had the entire province, what would become of VARRO? He there-
fore, no doubt, commanded the northern part of Lufitania, as low as Lisbon,
and from thence extending eastward, in a direct line, as far as Calatrava: for
the river Guadiana divides this part of Lufitania from the Provincia Bætica, all
the way between Badajos and Calatriva. But PETREIUS, who had part of
his legions quartered in the fouthern Portugal, and part about Eſtremadura,
lay ready to execute theſe orders, and at his departure left the entire command
of the farther province, which in CESAR's time contained both Lufitania and
Bætica, to VARRO, One thing we may remark from this divifion; viz. that
they who derive the original name of the kingdom of Caftile from the caftles
that were built in that country by the Goths and Vandals, to put a ſtop to
the incurfions of the Moors, who had over-run the entire Provincia Bætica,
must own themſelves miftaken, till they can find out another interpretation
for Saltus Caftulonenfis; for the Goths and Vandals got no footing there
themſelves, till about 400 years after the birth of our Saviour, and the Moors
not before 320 years after them, which is about 800 years after CAESAR wrote
his Commentaries. Monfieur D'ALLANCOURT indeed has rendered this Sal-
tus Caſtulonenfis, Caflona, or his editor for him in the margin; but if Caflona
be a town in Andalufia, it can never quadrate with CASAR's meaning.
ficers
Book I.
22༣
COMMENTARIES.
ficers of his army, which he diftributed amongſt his fol- CIVIL
diers: by which means he gained two confiderable points WAR.
at the fame inftant; for he made it the officers intereft to
adhere to his party, and fecured the foldiers hearts by his
liberality.
rowing mo-
ney of his
officers to-
wards his
Spanish ex-
tack'd on
40. FABIUS, in the mean while, left nothing unat-
tempted towards gaining the country round about to his pedition.
party, by his letters and embaſſadors. He had already caft Fabiusbuilds
two bridges
two bridges croſs the Sicoris, about four miles diftant from
crofs the Si-
each other, for the convenience of foraging, becauſe he had coris.
confumed all the proviſions on this fide the river: POMPEY'S
lieutenants, for the fanfe reafon, imitated his example,
which occafioned ſeveral ſkirmiſhes between our cavalry. It
happened one day, that two of FABIUS's legions, being out Fabius's fo-
upon duty to guard the foragers, according to cuftom, had ragers at-
paffed the river, when the carriages and cavalry following the break-
after, ſo over-loaded the bridge, already weakened by the ing of the
fwelling of the river, that it broke down, and the horſe bridge.
were precluded from joining the foot: which PETREIUS and
AFRANIUS perceiving, by the hurdles and other materials
that came fwimming down with the ftream, immediately
detached four legions with all their cavalry, croſs the bridge
that lay neareſt the town and their camp, with orders to
attack FABIUS's two legions. On their approach, L. PLAN-
CUS, who commanded the foraging guard, found himſelf
obliged to gain the higher ground, and make a double
front, to prevent being furrounded by AFRANIUS's cavalry. But Fabius
Notwithſtanding the difadvantage of number, he bravely detaches two
legions to
received the charge of their horſe and infantry, till the ftand- fuftain his
ards of two legions, which FABIUS had fent over the fur- men;
ther bridge to fuftain his party, were defcry'd at a diſtance;
for he fufpected POMPEY's lieutenants would lay hold of
that opportunity to fall upon his men: on the arrival of whereupon
theſe two legions, the engagement ceafed, and both parties the engage-
returned to their feveral camps.
ment ceales.
CHAP.
XV.
rives in the
camp, gives
4L.
WITHIN two days after CÆSAR's arrival in the Cæfar ar-
camp with a guard of 900 horfe, the bridge which had
been broken down was almoft rebuilt, and he gave orders orders for
for finiſhing the remaining part by night. Having taken repairing the
a view of the place, he left fix cohorts for a guard to his bridge, and
camp and baggage, and marched the day after with his ar- towards Le-
my drawn up into three lines towards Lerida, where he of- rida.
fered
marches
224
Book I
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
Afranius
draws out
his forces
CIVIL fered AFRANIUS battle on an even ground: whereupon
AFRANIUS drew out his forces, and difpofed them on the
middle of the hill before his camp. But CESAR perceiving
he declined the engagement, refolved to encamp about 400
paces from the foot of the mountain. And left the foldiers
fhould be interrupted in their works by fudden attacks from
the enemy, he order'd them not to throw up a rampier as
uſually, but only to cut a ditch fifteen foot broad in front,
towards the enemy. The firſt and ſecond lines, according
to command, continued in order of battle, and the third
had diſpatched their buſineſs before AFRANIUS difcovered
that CESAR defigned to encamp there.
to confront
him, but
does not
fight.
Cæfar cuts a
ditch in his
rear, and
encamps.
about his
Afranius
He cuts a 42. In the evening CESAR drew his legions within this
ditch round ditch, and ordered them to lie that night upon their arms.
The day after he ftirred not out of the place; and becauſe
camp fifteen
foot broad. he muſt have been obliged to fend a great way for mate-
rials to compile a rampier, he contented himſelf for the
prefent, to ſurround his camp on all fides only with a ditch
of the fame breadth with the former; and allotted a feveral
legion to compleat each fide of the work, commanding the
reſt of his forces to be ready to receive the enemy's charge.
In the mean time PETREIUS and AFRANIUS, to divert the
foldiers from going forward with the work, drew down
his forces to their legions to the foot of the hill, and provoked them to
works, to no engage. However, CESAR, depending on the three le-
gions which were ready at their arms, and the defence of
his ditch, did not omit carrying on his works: which the
enemy obferving, advanced no farther than the fide of the
hill; where they continued not long, before they returned
to their camp. The third day, CÆSAR having fortified
his with a rampier, fent orders to the cohorts and baggage,
which he had left behind, to decamp, and come up to him.
draws out
divert the
purpoſe.
CHA P. XVI.
43. BETWEEN Lerida and the next hill, where
PETREIUS and AFRANIUS were encamped, lay a plain
about 300 paces over; in the midſt of which was a gentle
rifing ground, fomething higher than the valley round
about. CASAR hoped, if he could but render himſelf
maſter of this place, to intercept the enemy's communica-
tion with the town and bridge, and deprive them of thofe
convoys they uſed to receive from thence. Wherefore ha-
ving made a draught of three legions, he ranged them in
order of battle, and commanded the first line of one to
run
:
225
Book I.
COMMENTARIES.
run before, and gain the place: which AFRANIUS per- CIVIL
ceiving, diſpatched his advanced guard a nearer way to the WA R.
fame poft: they difputed the matter warmly on both fides,
A bloody
but AFRANIUS's party, who came thither firft, having the skirmish be-
advantage of the ground, obliged our men to retire, and tween confi-
being reinforced by fresh fupplies, forced them to fly for derable par-
fhelter to the legions.
ties of both
armies.
foldiers
44. The manner of their foldiers fighting was this, firſt The way
to make a furious charge, in order to gain a particular poſt, Afranius's
without regard to ranks and files, fighting defperately in fought.
ſmall parties on every fide; and if they found themſelves
warmly received, they thought it no difgrace to retire, be-
ing accuſtomed to this kind of engagement, by their fre
quent rencounters with the Lufitanians, and the other bar-
barous people of Spain: for foldiers generally acquire the
particular cuſtoms of the country where they have ferved
for a confiderable time. But our men were extremely fur-
prized at this new way of engagement; who feeing every
foldier quit his rank, and run diforderly up and down,
were apprehenſive of being furrounded on all fides, whilft
they were obliged to keep their order, and not to quit their
poft or ſtandard but upon fome very extraordinary occa-
fion. Thus the firſt line being routed, the legion likewife Cæfar's
in that wing gave ground, and retired to the next hill.
party at firft
routed.
to relieve
them.
into a difad
45. Whereupon CESAR, finding the whole army fur- The ninth
prized at this extraordinary accident, detached the ninth le- legion fent
gion to fuftain his party, and put a stop to the career of
the enemy's purfuit. His orders were fo well performed, Rout the
that the enemy, though flufh'd with fuccefs, were obliged enemy.
in their turn to give ground, and retire for ſhelter to the
walls of Lerida. But the foldiers of the ninth legion being Purfue too
too eager to repair the diſgrace of their party, purfued the eagerly, fall
enemy till they had brought themſelves into a diſadvan- vantageous
tageous place, at the bottom of the hill upon which the town place.
was built; and as they endeavoured to retreat, found them-
felves charged afresh from the higher ground The front of
this afcent was rough and ſteep on eve: y fide, extending
only fo far in breadth as was fufficient for drawing up three
cohorts where it was impoffible to relieve them. or to fup-
port them with the cavalry. From the town, indeed, the
deſcent was ſomething eafier, about 400 paces in length,
which furniſhed our men with an opportunity of extricating
themſelves from the difadvantage their rafhnefs had brought
them into. Here the fight was obftinately maintained, The fight
though with great inequality on our fide, as well on account renew'd.
е
of
226
Book 1.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
I VIL of the narrowness of the place, as the advantage the enemy
WAR. had, by being maſters of the rifing ground, from whence
retreat.
no javelin fell in vain; yet our men bravely encountered
with all theſe difficulties, and patiently endured the wounds
they received the enemy perpetually received fupplies, and
freſh cohorts were frequently fent through the town to re-
lieve the wearied; which obliged CAESAR to detach parties
thither for the like purpoſe.
46. The engagement had now continued four hours
without intermiffion, when our men, who had ſpent all
their piles and javelins, bravely charged the enemy with
fword in hand; and having killed fome, obliged the reft to
fly, notwithſtanding the advantage of the upper ground.
Thus having driven fome into the town, and the reſt under
Both parties the walls, they eafily obtained an opportunity of retreating;
for our cavalry, ſtriving againſt the ſteepness of the aſcent,
mounting on either fide to the top of the hill, and riding
between both armies, fecured our retreat: fo many, and
fo various were the turns of fortune in this rencounter.
About ſeventy of our men were killed in the first charge;
amongſt which number fell Q. FULGINIUS, who had been
firſt centurion of the haftati in the fourteenth legion, and
who had raiſed himſelf from inferior ranks to the honourable
poft he was now in, by his extraordinary merit; and above
600 were wounded. On AFRANIUS's fide were killed T.
CECILIUS, first centurion of a legion, four more centurions
of inferior orders, and above 200 common foldiers.
ex primo
haftato.
The various
fuccefs.
47. Yet fo various were the opinions of this day's fuccefs,
opinions of that each party thought they had the better of it. AFRA-
this day's
NIUS's foldiers, becaufe, though to all appearance the
weaker, yet they fo long ſuſtained our affault; and becauſe
they firft poffeffed and maintained the poft, which was the
occafion of the difpute, and obliged our men, on the firſt
rencounter, to give ground: But ours, becauſe they had
maintained the fight five hours together notwithſtanding the
inequality of place and number; becauſe they had forced
their way up the rifing ground with fword in hand, and ob-
liged the enemy to retire into the town, notwithſtanding
they had the advantage of the hill. However, after the en-
gagement was over, AFRANIUS fortified the mount for
which we contended, and placed a garrifon on it.
The Sicoris
overflows its
48. During the two days that this affair was in agitation,
banks, and there happened a very unfortunate accident; the weather
breaks down was fo tempeftuous, that it raiſed the water to a greater
both Fabi- height than was ever known in that country; the fnow ran
us's bridges.
down
Book I.
227
COMMENTARIES.
a
WAR.
down fo violently from all the mountains round about into CIVIL
the Sicoris, that the river overflowed its banks, and in one
day were deftroyed both the bridges which FABIUS had
built; which reduced the army to great extremities. For
we have already obferved, that our forces were encamped
between the two rivers, Cinga and Sicoris, which for the
ſpace of thirty miles together were neither of them fordable.
The army being thus blocked up within this narrow com-
pafs, the countries which had declared in favour of CÆSAR,
could not ſupply him with proviſions; the foragers could
not return again becauſe the waters were out; nor could
the convoys and recruits, which came from Gaul and Italy,
find means of arriving at the camp.
far laboured
To add to thefe difficulties, the feafon of the year ren- The diffi-
dered provifions very fearce, for the laſt year's corn was all culties Ca-
confumed, and that on the ground was hardly ripe. All under.
the countries round about were emptied, for AFRANIUS,
before CÆSAR's arrival, had carried moſt of the corn to Le-
rida; and that ſmall remainder which was left, our army
had already devoured. As for the cattle, which were our
fecond dependance, the natives had removed them farther
off, when their country was appointed the feat of war. Our
foragers were greatly incommoded from being purſued by
the light-armed Lufitanians, and Spaniards of the higher
province, who were acquainted with the courfe of the coun-
try, and eafily fwam over the rivers, as they never go to
war without being provided with bladders, or leathern bags
for that purpoſe.
49. But on the contrary, AFRANIUS had plenty of all
kind of provifions, for he had laid up great quantities of
corn, often received fresh convoys, and had forage enough
for his cavalry, the bridge of Lerida furniſhing him with all
thefe conveniencies without any danger; for the country
beyond the river, which CASAR could not come at, was
wholly untouched
Utribus.
rebuild his
bridges,
50. The waters were out ſeveral days together; CÆSAR Cæfar en-
did his utmoſt endeavour to repair the bridges, but the deavours to
fwelling of the river, and the parties which AFRANIUS had
difpofed on the oppofite banks, prevented his defign; which with ill fuc-
they might eafily do, becauſe of the nature of the river, the cefs.
height of the water, and the convenience they had of caſt-
ing their darts, all along the bank, on that particular place
where our men were obliged to work; which rendered it
a Either here must be fomething added, or elfe there is fomething left out
before in this book, for I don't find any mention made of the Cinga.
Q 2
very
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book I.
WAR.
W
1 L very difficult for them at the fame time to ſtruggle with the
force of the ftream, and avoid the enemy's darts.
Afranius
attack fome
CHAP.
XVII.
51. AFRANIUS had notice of confiderable reinforce-
ments and convoys, which were marching to join CÆSAR;
but being hindered by the waters, were obliged to make a
halt on the river's fide: amongſt theſe were archers from
Roverge, and cavalry from the Celtic Gaul, with great
ſtore of baggage, according to the cuftom of their country,
befides about 6000 more of feveral forts, with fervants and
children, who marched without order; for being ſubject to
no commander, every man followed the feveral dictates of
his own humour, travelling up and down the country care-
lefly, as if the roads were fecure as formerly. There were
likewiſe many young gentlemen of quality, fenators and
knights fons, with embaffadors from feveral ftates, and
fome of CÆSAR's lieutenants; but all their journies were
ftopp'd by the river.
On this advice AFRANIUS marched in the night, with
marches to three legions and all his cavalry, to cut them off, and fent
me his horfe before, who fell upon them e'er they were ready
recruits that to receive them: the Gallic cavalry foon rallied, and en-
were coming gaged them bravely, returning their charge, notwithſtand-
convoys and
to Cæfar.
ing the diſparity of number, fo long as they had none but
horſe to encounter with; but on diſcovery of the legions en-
figns, fome few being flain, the reft retreated to the neigh-
bouring hills. However, this fhort fkirmiſh was of great
advantage to the reft of their party, for it gave them time
to rally upon the higher ground: this day we loft about
200 archers, a few cavalry and fervants, with a ſmall part
Some cavalry of our baggage.
Kills 200
archers,
and fervants.
Great ſcar-
* About
52. But this encreafed the price of provifions, as well on
city in Ca- account of the prefent fcarcity, as the apprehenfion of future
far's camp. want: a bufhel of corn was fold for * 50 denarii, the fol-
Il. 13s. 4d.
diers daily grew more feeble, inconveniencies encreaſed
English; every day, and a wonderful change appeared in a few days.
fome copies time; ſo much did fortune favour the enemy, that whilſt
read 40 den.
we laboured under the want of all kind of neceflaries, they
had plenty of every thing, and were eſteemed the victors.
CESAR left nothing uneffected to redrefs the preſent ſcar-
city; he fent to the countries that were in league with him,
to furniſh him with cattle in defect of corn, and diſmiſs'd
thoſe that were attendants on the camp to diftant places.
53. AFRA-
Book I.
229
COMMENTARIES.
53. AFRANIUS, PETREIUS, and their friends, fent CIVIL
accounts of this to Rome; and fo much had report enlarged WAR.
the truth, that the war appeared to be almoſt at an end:
The report
when the couriers arrived at Rome, there was a great con- at Rome,
courfe at AFRANIUS's houfe, and mighty congratulations that Cæfar
was already
were made amongſt their party; many flock'd out of Italy
to POMPEY, fome to carry the firſt account of this grateful
news, and others to avoid coming lateft, when fortune
ſhould have given judgment againſt CÆSAR's cauſe.
overcome.
the Britains
wag- ufed, Cæfar
miles rebuilds his
them bridges.
54. Affairs being reduced to this extremity, CESAR
perceiving all the paffes were guarded by AFRANIUS'S
parties, and that it was impoffible to repair the bridges,
gave orders for building fuch boats as he had formerly ob-
ſerv'd in uſe among the English; their keels and lower part By help of
made of light timber, the fides of wicker covered over fuch boats as
with ſkins which being thus finiſhed he placed on
gons, to be conveyed by night about twenty-two
from his camp, and then tranfported his foldiers in
croſs the river; who immediately poffeffed themſelves of
a hill on the bank-fide, and fortified it before the enemy
had notice of their motions. After thefe, to reinforce
the party, he likewiſe tranſported a legion; and beginning
the work on both fides together, compleated his bridge in
two days; by which means he recovered his foragers, re-
ceiv'd his convoys and recruits, and opened a paffage for
future fupplies of corn.
enemy's fo-
55. The fame day he detached a great part of his ca- His cavalry
valry croſs the river, who furprized a confiderable number furprize the
of the enemy's foragers and waggons, that were carelefly ragers.
diſperſed up and down the country; but a party of light-
arm'd Spaniſh foot coming up to their affiftance, our
men divided themſelves into two bodies, one to fecure the
booty, the other to receive, and return the enemy's
charge. One of our cohorts venturing too eagerly before
the reft, was furrounded and cut off; but the reſt returned
over the bridge in fafety to the camp with a confiderable ble booty.
booty.
CHAP. XVIII.
Return with
a confidera-
56. WHILST affairs were in this pofture at Lerida, The Peo-
ple of Mar-
the people of Marſeilles, by L. DOMITIUS's advice, feilles pre-
equipp'd feventeen gallies (of which eleven were covered) pare a con-
with ſeveral other ſmaller veffels, that they might ſtrike a fiderable
terror into our fleet by the multitude of theirs.
Q3
Theſe they
mann'd
Aeet.
230
Book I.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL mann'd with a party of archers and the Albici whom we
WAR. have already mentioned; encouraging them with great re-
the Roman
fleet engages
wards and promifes. DOMITIUS defired a certain num-
ber of theſe fhips for his particular ufe, which he filled.
with the thepherds and huſbandmen he had brought thither
along with him. Thus being compleatly equipp'd, they
boldly hoifted fail in fearch of our fleet, which was com-
manded by D. BRUTUS, and rode at anchor at an ifland
over-againſt M..rfeilles.
57. BRUTUS was much inferior to the enemy in num-
ber of fhipping; but CÆSAR had chofen the moſt valiant
Brutus with men among all his legions, as well Centurions as Antefig-
nani, at their own request, to man his fleet: who having
them. prepared plenty of grappling-irons, piles, darts and javelins,
on notice of the enemy's arrival, put to fea, and engaged
them. The conflict was brifkly maintained on both fides,
nor were the Albici (a hardy highland people, perpetually
inur'd to ans) much inferior to our men in courage;
for being come directly from Marſeilles, the late promifes
which they had received were fresh in their memories.
and DOMITIUS's fhepherds behaved themfelves with equal
courage, before the eyes of their maſter, in hopes of gain-
ing from him their liberty.
58. Thofe of Marfeilles confiding in the nimbleness of
their fhips, avoided the fhock of our gallies, when we en-
deavoured to ſplit them with our beaks; having fea-room
enough, they drew their fleet up into a line, in order to
furround us; fometimes feveral of them would attack a
ſingle ſhip of ours together; fometimes try to ſweep off a
bank of oars, by rufhing furioufly along-fide of a galley;
but when we endeavour'd to grapple, laying afide the ſkill
of their pilots and mariners, they relied entirely on the
courage of the mountaineers. We were greatly incom-
moded by the unſkilfulneſs of our rowers and pilots, who
being lately taken from on board merchant veffels, hardly
knew the names of the tackle; and by the fluggiflinefs of
our fhips, which being built in hafte of unfeaſoned timber,
were not fo ready at tacking about: but when we came
The Mar- clofe up to them, a fingle thip of ours would enter be-
feillians de- tween two of the enemy's, and fighting boldly from each
feated; they
fide board them, by which means we killed great num-
bers of the mountaineers and fhepherds; part of their vef-
fels we funk, fome we took with the men on board, and
drove the reft into the haven. In this engagement the
enemy had nine fhips funk and taken,
lofe nine
Ships...
}
CHAP,
Book I.
231
COMMENTARIES.
CHA P. XIX.
WAR.
59. CÆSAR had news of this victory at Lerida, fo CIVIL
quickly did fortune change, when his bridge was finiſhed.
The enemy fearing the courage of our horfe, did not dif
perfe themſelves about the country fo carelefly as ufual;
fometimes foraging near their camp, that they might the
more eaſily retreat; fometimes taking a large circuit about,
to avoid meeting with our parties; for if they received the
leaſt loſs, or even defcried our cavalry at a distance, they
would forfake their waggons and Ay; nay, at laſt they
omitted foraging feveral days together, and detached par-
ties in the night to bring in provifions.
b
ragon, Cala-
guris in old
60. In the mean time the people of Huefca, and thofe Ofca in Ar-
of Calahorre, their fellow-tributaries, both fent embaffadors
to CESAR, to receive his commands; thofe of Jaca, the Caftile,
Auſetani, and, not many days after, the Illurgavonenſes,
who lie near the river Ebro, followed the example of theſe
c Tarraconenfes.
From theſe he demanded fupplies of corn, which they
promiſed, and having got all the carriages in the country
together, foon brought him provifions into his camp. One
cohort of the Illurgavonenfes, having notice of their coun
try's refolution, came over to our camp with their colours *.
There was a wonderful change for the better on our fide;
for the bridge was perfected, five powerful ftates had en-
come over to
Cæfar's par-
ty.
Iberus.
*Or in an
intire body.
The ſcene
of affairs
changed
much for the
better on
b Jacetani, or thofe of Jaca. Monfieur D'ABLANCOURT has rendered Cæfar's fide.
this name to the people of Barcelona; but I was rather inclined to believe
CASAR meant thofe of Jaca, becauſe the found has no affinity at all with Bar-
cino, or Barcelona; nor can I meet with any authority to warrant that inter-
pretation.
c The original has it bos Tarraconenfes, which Mr. D'ABLANCOURT and
Mr. EDMONDS has rendered the people of Tarragona: But I believe CÆSAR
defigned it for an accufative cafe, and meant generally the inhabitants of the
Provincia Tarraconenfis; becauſe not long after AFRANIUS, finding he could
not paſs the Ebro, as he defigned, held a council to determine whether he
ſhould return to Lerida, or march to Tarragona; which he would hardly have
done, if the latter had revolted: majority of votes indeed carried it for Lerida;
but it was becauſe that was the shorter cut. Who thofe Aufcitani were, for
my part, I ſhall not pretend to determine; for I dare not affirm, with Mr.
D'ABLANCOURT, that they are the people of Garrona, becauſe he may have
reaſons which I am yet a ftranger to; much less that the Illurgavonenfes arc
the prefent inhabitants of Tortofa; for though Tortofa lies at the mouth of
the river Ebro, yet it were no neceffary conclufion to affirm from thence, that
this must be the place which cÆSAR meant, becauſe he fays the Illurgavo-
nenfes lay near the Ebro. But might I take the liberty of changing a letter or
two, I could turn the Illurgavonenfes into Ilerdavonenies, and then it would
be no difficult matter to expound it that part of the country of Ilerda near the
Ebro, which lay the fartheft off from AFRANIUs's forces.
Q 4
ter'd
232
Book I.
C.J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL ter'd into league with us, care was taken for future provi-
WAR. fions, the report of POMPEY's approach with the legions
through Africk was now at an end, and ſeveral countries
that lay at a farther diftance, revolting from AFRANIUS,
declared for CÆSAR.
61. Whilft the enemy was difcouraged by our fuccefs,
CÆSAR, that he might not be at the trouble of fending his
horſe fo far about to forage, having chofen a convenient
place, began to cut ſeveral ditches about thirty foot wide,
to drain fo much of the Sicoris as might render it fordable.
Afranius and This work was almoſt compleated, when PETREIUS and
Petreius re- AFRANIUS, apprehending they ſhould be cut off from fo-
move to- raging, becauſe CÆSAR was fo much fuperior to them in
wards Celti- cavalry, refolved to decamp, and remove the war to Cel-
beria,
folve to re-
tiberia. They were the rather induced to embrace this re-
folution, becauſe thoſe countries which had been ſubdued
by POMPEY in the Sertorian war, ftill trembled at their
conqueror's name, though abfent; and thoſe who had con-
tinued faithful to him, were fince confirmed in his intereſt
by feveral obligations, amongst whom CESAR was hardly
known. Hence they expected confiderable fupplies of horse
and infantry, and doubted not but to be able to protract
the war till winter.
Having agreed on this reſolution, they gave orders for
They give
orders for feizing all the ſhips on the Ebro, and carrying them to Oc-
tranſports to togefa, a town fituate on that river, about twenty miles
be prepared diftant from their camp, where they commanded a bridge
or Iberus. of boats to be caft croſs the water and tranſporting two
legions over the Sicoris, fortified their camp with a rampier
twelve foot high.
on the Ebro,
Cæfar drains
the Sicoris
till it be
comes for.
dable.
62. Which CÆSAR having notice of by his fcouts, wrought
inceffantly at his drains; and by the extraordinary labour
of his foldiers, who neither refted day nor night, reduced
the river to fo low an ebb, that the cavalry might, with
fome difficulty, ford it; which they ventured to do, and
the infantry likewife, though the water took them up to
their ſhoulders, and they contended with the rapidity as well
as depth of the ftream. So that almoſt at the fame inftant
that CÆSAR was inform'd the bridge crofs the Ebro was
near compleated, he found a ford over the Sicoris.
CHA P. XX,
Petreius and
Afranius be- 63. THE enemy thought it high time to be marching ;
wherefore leaving two auxiliary cohorts for a garriſon at
gin their
march.
Lerida,
Book I.
233
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
Lerida, they crofs'd the Sicoris with all their forces, and CIVIL
joined the two legions which they had fent over before.
CASAR had now no other remedy left, but to detach his
cavalry, to interrupt the enemy's march: but becauſe crof-
fing the bridge would oblige them to take fo large a cir-
cuit, that AFRANIUS would arrive at the Ebro before
them a nearer way, he ordered they fhould ford the river. cavalry to
About one in the morning, juſt as PETREIUS and AFRA purfue
NIUS had decamped, our cavalry deſcried their rear, which
they endeavoured to furround, that they might delay their
march.
Cæfar de-
taches his
them.
to ford the
river, and
purſue the
64. So foon as day light appear'd, from the rifing ground, They over-
near our camp, we diſcovered the enemy's rear warmly take and at-
engaged by our horfe, who fometimes obliged them to tack the e-
halt, and difordered their ranks; on the other hand, fome-nemy's rear.
times our party were forced to give way to the furious
charge of their cohorts; but fo foon as the enemy endea-
voured to pursue their march, our cavalry again attacked
them. The infantry, who beheld this action from the
camp, were gt together in parties, much concerned to
think the enemy fhould thus eſcape; which would neceffa- The legions
rily prolong the war. Wherefore they intreated the cen- defire leave
turions and tribunes to acquaint CESAR, "That they
were ready to ford the river where the horſe had paſs'd be-
fore them; and begg'd he would not be fo careful to avoid enemy.
expofing them to danger or labour." CASAR, incited by
their importunity, though he was unwilling to hazard the
ſafety of ſuch a number of men in fording fo deep a river;
yet judging it expedient to try his fortune, caufed the
weakeft foldiers to be drawn out of every century, whoſe
courage or ftrength were incapable of that expedition; and
thefe, with one legion, he left behind to fecure his camp
and baggage then drawing out the reft of his forces, he Cæfar grants
diſpoſed a great number of waggons both above and below their re-
the ford, to break the force of the ftream, and marched quest.
his legions croſs the river Some few of our infantry being
carried away by the impetuofity of the current, were
preferv'd by the cavalry, fo that not a fingle man periſhed
in this attempt. When he arriv'd on the other fide the
They crois
river, he diſpoſed his army into three lines; and fo eager the river.
were the foldiers in the purfuit, that though they had taken
a circuit of fix miles about, and had loft much time in ford-
ing the river, yet they came up with the enemy (who had and come up
begun their march by one that morning) before three in the enemy.
afternoon.
with the
PETREI-
234
Book I.
C. J. CESAR'S
}
CIVIL 65. PETREIUS and AERANIUS defcrying our legions at
WAR. a diftance, were not a little furpriz'd; wherefore having
gained the higher ground, they drew their army up in or-
der of battle. CESAR having refreſhed his army in the
field, that they might not be obliged to engage before they
had recovered their fatigue, fo foon as the enemy renewed
their march, purſued them afreſh; which oblig'd them to
Afranius, encamp earlier than they defigned for there were ſeveral
being warm-
warm-hills not far before them, and about five miles off the paſ-
ly pursued,
is oblig'd to fages were narrow and difficult. They retired within theſe
encamp. mountains, that they might avoid being attacked by our
cavalry, and difpofed parties in the avenues, to put a ſtop
to the march of our army, hoping by this means to fecure
their retreat crofs the Ebro; which it highly imported them.
to endeavour by all the means they could invent. But be-
ing fatigu'd by their continual marches and fkirmishes all
the day, they deferred the execution of their defign till the
day after, and CASAR encamped on a hill which lay near
them.
66. About midnight a ſmall party of theirs, which went
out a little diſtance from their camp to fetch water, was
Afranius furpriz'd by our cavalry. By thefe CÆSAR was informed,
defigns to that the enemy were filently decamping. Whereupon he
decamp pri-likewife commanded the fignal for removing and packing
vately.
up the baggage to be given, according to the Roman dif-
cipline.
The enemy taking the alarm, apprehending they ſhould
be attack'd, and obliged to fight, whilt they were loaden
with their baggage, or clfe block'd up in the narrow paffes
but is pre- by CESAR's cavalry, made a halt, and returned to their
camp.
vented.
out on both
CHA P. XXI.
THE day after PETREIUS went privately out with a
Parties fent fmall party of horſe, to take a view of the country; and
fides to view CÆSAR likewife detached another for the fame purpoſe,
the country. under the command of L. DECIDIUS SAXA. Both return-
ed the fame account to their ſeveral camps, that for five
miles together the country was open and campaign, but
after that very rough and mountainous; and whatever
army firft poffefs'd the ftreights, might eaſily prevent the
others marching that way.
67. On this advice, the enemy's generals held a coun-
cil of war, wherein the time for beginning their march was
debated.
Book I.
235
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
Afranius
war to de-
debated. The majority were of opinion it would be moſt CIVIL
convenient to fet out by night, for they might poffefs the
avenues before CAESAR could have notice of their departure.
But others declared, it was impoffible to decamp fo filent-holds a
ly, but they would be difcovered, as appeared by the laſt council of
night's alarm in CAESAR's camp; befides, the enemy's ca- bate the
valry were patrolling all night about the ways and paffages; time for de-
and night engagements were always to be declined, be- camping.
cauſe the foldiers in civil diffenfions would be guided by
their fears more than any religious obligation : whereas
in the day, each man having the dread of difhoncur before
his eyes, would be restrained from flight and a neglect of
Wherefore it
his duty, by the prefence of his officers.
was abfolutely neceflary to make the attempt by day-light,
and though they might receive fome fmall lofs, yet the
body of the army would obtain a ſafe retreat, and poffefs
the poft defired.
d
feems to
68. The latter of theſe opinions being embraced, they Cæfar de-
refolved the next morning by break of day to begin their camps, and
march: and CÆSAR having viewed the country, fet for-march the
ward about the fame time, taking a confiderable circuit, contrary way
and obferving no particular rout; for the direct way to the to the Ebro.
Ebro and Octogefa was block'd up by the enemy's camp,
which obliged us to march over feveral hills and dales;
and fuch craggy rocks frequently lay in the road, that the
foldiers were obliged to deliver their arms to a third perfon
to hold, whilſt they helped each other to aſcend the crags.
Thefe difficulties we had to encounter with, the greateſt
part of our march; yet the whole army chearfully endured.
the fatigue, in hopes of putting a ſpeedy period to their la
bour, if they could but gain the Ebro before the enemy,
and intercept their convoys.
us,
far's:
69. AFRANIUS's foldiers, overjoy'd at firft to fee we Afranius's
marched the contrary way (which we did on purpoſe to foldiers
deceive them) ran forth from their camp, and derided laugh at Cæ-
faying, we were obliged to fly, and return to Lerida for
want of provifions: nor were their generals lefs fatisfied,
to think how prudently they had acted in not decamping.
They were confirmed in this opinion, becauſe they found But when
we had neither baggage nor carriages along with us, which Cæfar began
they concluded was a proof that we had left our camp bout, per-
through neceffity. But when they obferved we began by ceive their
degrees to wheel about to the right, and that our advanced
d Veget, lib. 11. cap. 5. The foldiers. fwear vigorously to perform all their
general's orders, never to defert or refufe death for the ſervice of the republick.
to wheel a-
error.
guard
236
C. J. CESAR'S
Book I.
CIVIL guard had already gained the ground beyond their camp,
WAR. no one was ſo ſtupid or lazy, as not to perceive the necef-
before them.
fity of oppofing our further march without delay. An a-
larm was founded, and the enemy leaving only a few co-
horts for a guard to their camp, marched their forces di-
rectly for the Ebro.
70. Thus the whole iſſue of the buſineſs depended on dif-
Cæfar gains patch, the conteft being whether party could firft poffefs the
the ftreights ftreights and mountains. CESAR had the difficulties of the
way to ſtruggle with; but on the other hand, AFRANIUS'S
march was retarded by CESAR's cavalry. However, if
the enemy could have gained the hills firft, as they de-
figned, they might have fecured their retreat, though they
muft of neceffity have loft their baggage and the cohorts.
which were left behind in their camp. CASAR had the
Afranius
halts, and
detaches a
party of foot
good fortune to arrive firſt at the place, and having pof-
feffed himſelf of a plain, which terminated in great rocks,
drew up his army in order of battle.
AFRANIUS perceiving our army in his front, and find-
ing his rear attacked by our cavalry, began to halt, taking
the advantage of a rifing ground: from hence he detached
to gain a ri- four cohorts of Spanish foot, to gain another hill, which
fing ground, appeared higher than any of the reft; they were command-
ed to diſpatch theſe orders with all expedition, for he would
come thither himſelf afterwards with his army, and by
another way than he had formerly defigned, on the ridge
of the mountains, reach Octogefa.
but they are
cut to pieces
The enemy's cohorts were taking a circuit to the place,
when our cavalry, perceiving their defign, charg'd them
by Cæfar's with fuch violence, that they were not able to ſuſtain their
cavalry.
fury, but being furrounded, in the fight of both armies
were cut to pieces.
CHAP. XXII.
71. THIS no doubt was a happy opportunity for ef-
fecting fomething extraordinary, nor was CÆSAR ignorant
of it; for the enemy was certainly daunted to ſee their
party defeated before their eyes, and find themſelves fur-
rounded by our cavalry in an equal, and open place, where
Upon this the diſpute might have been decided by a battle. CASAR
advantage was ftrongly importuned to an engagement by his lieute-
nants, centurions, and tribunes, who all urged that the fol-
diers were in high ſpirits and eager for it; whereas AFRA-
NIUS's army had given undeniable proofs of their fear,
Cæfar is
portuned
fight, but
declines it.
fince
Book I.
237
COMMENTARIES.
fince they neither detached fupplies to fuftain their party, CIVIL
nor moved from the rifing ground to which they had firft WAR.
retreated, and hardly faftained our cavalry's attack, but
crouded their ſtandards confuſedly together, without ob-
ſerving rank or order: but if the diſadvantage of the ground
was of fuch moment, that could not long obftruct the de-
fign, fince AFRANIUS would be obliged to remove for
want of water.
72. But CÆSAR, hoping he ſhould effect the fame bu-
fineſs without an engagement, fince he had cut off the
enemy's provifions, told them, "He had no occafion to His reafons.
purchaſe victory at the expence of any man's life, or to
let those who had deferved fo well at his hands, run the
hazard of a wound; or laftly, to let fortune have any
fhare in the decifion of a battle, efpecially fince it re-
dounded more to a general's honour, to overcome by
conduct than by force: befides, he was moved with com-
paffion for thoſe many Romans, who, he forefaw, muft be
facrificed to that day's fuccefs, which he would rather ob-
tain without bloodfhed." CAESAR's opinion was generally The foldiers
diflik'd, and fome of the foldiers openly declared, fince he difgufted at
had omitted fo glorious an opportunity, they would decline
an engagement when he fhould be difpofed to it. How-
ever, he continued firm in his refolution, and retired fome
fmall diftance from the place, to free the enemy from their
apprehenfions. PETREIUS and AFRANIUS laid hold on
this occafion to retreat to their camp: and CÆSAR having Both armies
diſpoſed parties in all the paffes to the Ebro, lodg'd himself again en-
as near as he could to the enemy.
it.
camp.
all and Petreius
me- bout making
confult a-
73. The day after AFRANIUS and PETREIUS being Afranius
much diſturb'd to find their convoys intercepted, and
the paffages to the Ebro block'd up, confulted what
thods they ſhould take, and found they had only two ways their re-
left, to return to Lerida, or march to Tarragona. But treat;
whilft they were debating, they had notice that the parties but hearing
they had fent out for water were attack'd by our horfe their foragers
whereupon they refolved to line the road to the water with were cut off,
guards of horfe and foot, with fome legionary cohorts in- refolve to
termixed; and began to draw a line of communication by of communi-
a rampier from thence to their camp; that afterwards cation to the
they might fetch it at any time fecurely without placing liver.
fuch ſtations. PETREIUS and AFRANIUS each chofe
their particular part of this work, which obliged them to
be at ſome diſtance from their camp.
74. In the mean while the foldiers of both armies hav-
I
ing
draw a line
238
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Afranius
Book I.
CIVIL ing an opportunity of conferring with one another, fre-
WAR. quently came out of their camps, and enquir'd after their fel-
low-citizens and former acquaintance. Firft AFRANIUS'S
and Petreius men return'd ours thanks for fparing them the day before,
being abfent when they were in fuch great confternation; and freely
owned they were obliged to us for their lives; then enqui-
foldiers of ring how they might fafely fubmit to CESAR, declared
both armies they were forry they had not at the beginning joined their
have a con-relations and acquaintance. Having gone thus far, they
ference. then demanded CASAR's parole for the lives of their gene-
from their
camp,the
rals PETREIUS and AFRANIUS, that they might not be
Send feveral branded with infamy, for betraying their officers. On fe-
centurions curity for the performance of thefe conditions, they promiſed
to treat with to come over to us in an entire body, and accordingly ſent
a furrender. feveral centurions of the first degree to treat with CÆSAR
about a peace.
Caefar about
Mutual
entertain-
ments a-
mong the
foldiers of
both armies.
In the mean time the foldiers of both fides made mutual
entertainments for each other, fo that both the camps ap-
peared united in one feveral of their tribunes and centu-
rions came to pay their court to CÆSAR; the like did ma-
ny
noblemen of Spain, who had been ſummoned to attend
AFRANIUS, and were detain'd in his army in the nature
of hoftages; all of them enquiring for their particular
friends and acquaintance, who might recommend them to
CESAR. And AFRANIUS's fon, a young gentleman,
treated with CESAR, by SULPICIUS the lieutenant, to ob-
All things tain a pardon for himfelf and his father. In fine, nothing
feem to tend but mirth and joy were to be feen in both armies; in theirs,
becauſe they had eſcap`d fo imminent danger; in ours, be-
reconcilia- caufe we had effected fo important an affair without the
NowCafar's hazard of a battle: and now every man applauded CÆSAR'S
mercy is ap-judgment, who had reap'd fo extraordinary advantage from
the clemency of the preceding day.
towards a
tion.
plauded.
CHA P. XXIII.
75. AFRANIUS having notice of theſe proceedings,
defifted from his works, and retired to the camp again,
where, with an equal mind, he feem'd to expect what-
But Petreius ever event fhould befal him but PETREIUS neglected not
breaks the his own fafety on this occafion; having arined his fervants,
conference. with them, and a prætorian cohort of target-bearers, and
far's foldiers a fmall party of Spaniſh cavalry, his dependants, who al-
from the ways uſed to attend him as his guard, he repaired with
all the diſpatch he could to the rampier, where furprizing
Drives Cœ-
rampier of
his camp.
the
Book I.
239
COMMENTARIES.
the foldiers of the two armies talking together, he obliged CIVIL
ours to retire from the camp, and put thoſe he could ap- WAR.
prehend to the fword. But the reft, who had an oppor-
tunity of rallying, depending on the nearness of their camp,
wrapp'd their cloaks about their left-arms, drew their fwords,
and defended themſelves from PETREIUS's party, till they
had retreated to our advanced guard, by whom they were
protected.
the
and diffuades
fters a new
76. After this PETREIUS vifited every maniple, called He visits
the foldiers about him, and, with tears in his eyes, con- every part of
jured them not to forfake him, or their abfent general army,
POMPEY, and deliver them up a facrifice to the enemy. them from
Whereupon there was an immediate concourſe of foldiers furrendring.
about the general's pavilion, and PETREIUS demanded He admini-
every man ſhould take an oath not to defert, betray the oath of fide-
army, or their generals, nor enter into any private con-lity to the
fultation without the publick confent: to fet an example,
he first took the oath himfelf, then obliged AFRANIUS to
do the like; the centurions and tribunes followed after
with the foldiers according to their feveral centuries.
whole army.
When the whole army had fworn, it was proclaimed, Cæfar's fol-
that whoever had any of CESAR's foldiers fhould deliver diers which
them up, and thofe they found were publickly put to
were found
in Petreius's
death before the generals tents: but most of the foldiers
camp put to
concealed our men, and difmifs'd them privately at night death.
over the rampier. Thus the terror which their generals
had ftruck into the army, the feverity they had fhewn in
puniſhment, and the new oath they had obliged them to
take, for the prefent defeated all hopes of a furrender,
changed the foldiers minds, and reduced the war to its pri-
ftine ſtate.
nius's fol-
77. CESAR caufed diligent enquiry to be made for fuch Caefar dif-
of AFRANIUS's foldiers as came to his camp during the miles Afra-
truce, and ordered them to be returned in fafety to their diers that
general. But fome of the tribunes and centurions volun- were in his
tarily choſe to ſtay with him; whom afterwards he treated camp,
very honourably, promoting the centurions to higher ranks,
and to fuch as were Roman knights he gave tribunes com-
miffions.
•
78. AFRANIUS's parties were much incommoded by
our men when they went either to forage or fetch water:
his legionary foldiers indeed had a fmall quantity of corn.
left, becauſe they had been commanded to bring two and
twenty days provifion with them from Lerida. But the
target-bearers, and auxiliary forces had none at all; for
they
220
Book I.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL they neither had opportunities of fupplying themſelves,
WAR. nor were their bodies inured to carry heavy burthens; which
made them daily defert in great numbers to CÆSAR.
Afranius
CHAP. XXIV.
AFFAIRS being reduced to this extremity, of the two
methods which had formerly been propofed, it was thought
the more convenient to return to Lerida, where they had
and Petreius left fome provifions behind them; and there to concert
the beſt meaſures for the future management of the war:
befides, Tarragona lay farther off, and confequently might
expoſe them to freſh dangers; wherefore they refolved on
the former, and decamped.
refolve to
return to
Lerida.
fues them,
e
CESAR having fent his cavalry before, to retard the
Cæfar pur- march of their rear, followed after himſelf with the legions.
fends his ca- The enemy were continually employ'd by our horfe, and
valry before. the manner of engaging was this:
Afranius
79. The light-arm'd cohorts clofed their rear, and where
the country was even, they confronted our cavalry; when-
ever they were to aſcend a rifing ground, the nature of the
place fufficiently ſcreened them from danger, for the fore-
moft ranks could eafily defend the hindmoft: but when
they came to a valley, or defcent, where the foremoſt
ranks could be of no affiftance to the rear, and our men
caft their darts with advantage from the higher ground,
then they were in imminent danger; their only reſource
was, that on their approach to any fuch places, the legions
were ordered to face about, and with all their force to re-
pel our horfe: the moment we began to give ground, they
would run down into the valley, thence gain the next ri-
fing ground, and face about again. For of fo little ufe were
their cavalry to them, of whom they had confiderable
numbers, that they were obliged to receive them into the
midſt of their army, and defend them with their infantry,
ſo much were they intimidated by their ill fuccefs in former
fkirmiſhes but if any of them chanced to ftraggle out of
the main body, they were immediately taken by CESAR'S
horfe.
80. The ſkirmiſhes continuing thus without intermiffion,
the
obliged to enemy could march but flowly, being often obliged to
halt, to relieve their rear, as happened at this time. They
Pretends to had not marched above four miles, when finding themſelves
overcharged by our cavalry, they pofted their army on a
halt.
encamp.
e A fea-port in Catalonia, between Barcelona and Tortofa.
very
Book I.
241
COMMENTARIES.
So foon as
very high hill, and drawing their front up in order of CiviL
battle, began to intrench themfelves without unloading WAR.
their baggage. But fo foon as they perceived that we were
encamped, that our tents were pitched, and the cavalry were Cæfar does
difperfed to forage, about noon on a ſudden they diflodged: the like, cn-
which CESAR obſerving, drew out his legions and purfued deavours to
purfue his
them, leaving a few cohorts for a guard to his baggage, march.
with orders to recal the foragers about four in the after-
noon, at which time he commanded the horfe fhould fol-
low him. Accordingly the horfe perform'd their orders,
immediately return'd to their former charge, and attacked
the enemy's rear fo vigoroufly, that they almoft routed
them; for they killed feveral foldiers, fome centurions, and
the reſt of our forces followed cloſe after, threatening a total with good
defeat to their army.
Cæfar's ca
valry fets up-
on their rear
fuccefs.
Afranius
81. In fine, having neither convenient ground to encamp
on, nor an opportunity of marching further, they were again obliged
obliged to halt, and intrench themſelves in a difadvantage- to halt and
ous place, far from any water. However, CESAR, for encamp.
the fame reaſons that moved him to refufe the engagement
before, now likewife declined offering them battle. He
would not that day permit the foldiers to pitch their tents,
that they might be readier to purſue the enemy, if they
ſhould endeavour to make their efcape, either then, or in
the night.
The enemy, obferving the defect of their camp, labour-
ed all the night in advancing their works more forward,
and bringing their trenches nearer to ours: the fame thing
they did the day after from fun-rife till the evening. But
it happened very unfortunately for them, that the farther
they advanced their lines, the greater diftance they were
from the water; and remedied one evil with what in its .
confequences would be a worſe. The first night no one
went out for water; but the day after, leaving only a ſmall
guard in their camp, they drew out all their forces towards
the river, yet fent no parties out to forage.
CHAP. XXV.
Cefar en-
deavours to
THOUGH CESAR would rather have obliged them
to capitulate by theſe inconveniencies than by force, yet
he endeavoured to hem them in with a rampier and a ditch, furround
that he might the more eafily prevent their fudden fallies them with a
and eruptions, which he believed they muft at laft have work.
recourſe to.
R
The
242
Book I.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
The enemy were reduced to great neceffities for want
WAR. of forage, and that they might more readily make their
eſcape, killed all their mules and fumpter-horſes.
They kill all
their beaſts
rage is
fcarce.
Draw out
their forces
to interrupt
Cæfar's
works.
Cæfar does
the like.
82. Two days were confumed in forming, and executing
of burthen, this refolve; but the third, perceiving great part of our
becauſe fo- works were already compleated, to prevent our further
progreſs, about two in the afternoon, they drew out their
legions in order of battle before our camp. Upon which
CÆSAR, having recalled his from the works, and com-
manded the cavalry to attend, did the like: for he had al-
ready found the inconvenience of appearing unwilling to
engage the enemy. However, for the fame reaſons which
But no bat. had before diffuaded him, he was not even now inclined to
tle enfues, fight, and the leſs, fince there was fo fmall a diſtance be-
tween the two camps, that if he routed the enemy, he
could not obtain a compleat victory; for the armies lay
within two thouſand foot of each other, of which the le-
gions, when drawn out, took up about two thirds, and
the reſt only was left for the foldiers to give their charge in :
fo that, had he engaged them, the nearness of their camp.
would have furniſhed them with an eafy retreat. Where-
fore CÆSAR refolved to ftand upon his defence, and not
begin to to charge AFRANIUS firſt.
The order
83. The enemy had difpofed their forces into a double
Afranius dif-line, confifting of five legions, and the cohorts which uſed
pofed his ar- to be difpofed in the wings, now formed the referv'd
body.
my into.
Cæfar's dif-
poſition.
CESAR's army was drawn up in three lines, the firſt
confifting of four cohorts, detached out of each of the five
'legions, the fecond of three, and the third of the like num-
ber; the archers and flingers were diſpoſed in the midſt,
and the cavalry on either fide. Thus both armies being
ranged in order of battle, each general feemed to obtain
his defire: CÆSAR, not to engage, unleſs he was obliged
Both armies to it; and AFRANIUS, to prevent the progrefs of our
work but having continued in this pofture till fun-fet,
again. they both returned to their reſpective camps.
reure into
their camps
Cæfar goes
on with his
:
The next day CESAR went on with the works he had
works. begun, and the enemy in the mean while endeavoured to
find out a ford cross the Sicoris; which CESAR obferving,
detached his light-arm'd Germans with ſome cavalry croſs
the river, and difpofed feveral parties along the banks to
obferve their motions.
Afranius de-
84. At length, finding themſelves befieged on all fides,
fires a confe- having had no forage four days together, themfelves want-
rence,
ing
Book I.
243
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
ing water, wood, and corn, AFRANIUS defired a private C I v I L
parley out of the foldiers hearing; but CÆSAR would a-
gree to no conference, unleſs in publick. Whereupon
AFRANIUS having fent his fon for a hoſtage, they had an
interview at the place appointed: where, in the preſence of
both armies, he thus addreffed himſelf to CÆSAR.
"That he had no reaſon to be angry at him or his fol-
diers, for having behaved themſelves faithfully to their ge-
neral POMPEY: but they had already given fufficient proofs
of their conftancy, and fuffered enough for his cauſe, by
the want of all kind of provifions; being caught like beafts
in a toil, imprifoned in their trenches, and prevented from
fetching water: wherefore they could no longer ſupport
themſelves under thefe afflictions of mind and body, but
muft confefs the power of their conqueror; whom they
moft humbly befought and conjured to have fo much mer-
cy, as not to force them to deſpair."
All this he delivered in a very modeſt and ſubmiſſive ac-
cent;
85. But CESAR made him this anſwer:
CÆSAR, for his
His fpeech,
"That AFRANIUS, of all mankind, had leaft reafon Cæfar's a17-
to complain, and implore his compaffion, who had hither- fwer.
to fhewn the leaft inclination to mercy.
part, had declined fighting upon advantage of time and
place, that he might conclude a peace without the effufion
of Roman blood: his army, after injuries received, when
they knew their comrades were killed, difmiffed AFRA-
NIUS's men that were in their power, untouched; nay,
even his own party did their endeavour to conclude a peace,
whereon they thought their fafety depended: in fine, both
armies had demonftrated their defire of a reconciliation,
whilft AFRANIUS and PETREIUS only would not endure
the thoughts of treaty, broke the truce, and barbarouſly
murdered thoſe innocent perfons whom the interview had
enticed to their camp. Wherefore, they had juſtly ſhared
the uſual fate of the obftinate and haughty, to be ob-
liged to have recourfe to thofe conditions, and ear-
neftly defire thoſe very terms, which not long before they
deſpiſed. However, he fcorned to take the advantage of
their fubmiffion, in order to advance his own authority
and reputation: he only defired that the army might be
difbanded, which had been fo many years maintained
againſt him for to what other purpoſe were fix le-
gions fent into Spain, and a feventh raiſed there, fo many
powerful navies equipped, fo many great commanders and
R 2
expe-
244
Book I.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Evocati.
CIVIL experienced officers fent thither? Theſe preparations could
WAR. not be made to reduce or guard the provinces of Spain,
which having long enjoyed a peace, had no occafion for
fuch extraordinary forces; but he had long foreſeen they
were brought in for his deftruction. Innovations had like-
wife been made in the republick, in order to effect this
deſign; for one perfon commanded not only in Italy, at
the gates of Rome, but at the fame time, though abſent,
held the two most warlike provinces of Spain for many
years together the ancient inftitution of diſtributing go-
vernments to the confuls and prætors, after the diſcharge
of their office, was laid afide; and fome being clandeftine-
ly chofen by a private faction, were fent to the provinces:
the excufe of old age was not allow'd of, but even they who
deferved a glorious eafe, by the proofs they had formerly
given of their courage, were obliged to bear arms, and
compleat the number of the troops: and he alone had
been denied that juſtice, which no other general before
him ever was refuſed, to diſband his own army, and re-
turn home with honour, or at leaft free from ignominy,
after he had fuccefsfully ferved the commonwealth. All
which injuries he had patiently endured; neither did he
now endeavour to take their army from them, and enter-
tain them in his pay, which would be no difficult matter
for him to effect, but he only defired they might no longer
bear arms for his enemies againſt him; wherefore let them
quit the kingdom of Spain, and difband their forces which
conditions performed, he would injure no man; but theſe
were the only terms of peace he would condefcend to."
The articles
CHAP.
XXVI.
86. THESE conditions were very grateful to AFRA-
reafon to expect the
inftead of it obtain'd
agreed upon. NIUS's army, who, when they had
ufage which attends the conquered,
the liberty of quitting their arms. They gave evident
proofs of their fatisfaction; for when the place of diſband-
ing was debated, afcending the rampier, by words and figns
they unanimously defired it might be done immediately;
fince no fecurity could be given for the performance of this
promiſe in futurity. The difpute was foon decided, it
The articles, being agreed, "That they who had fettlements in Spain,
ſhould be disbanded there; the reft at the river Varus:
Which di that no perfon fhould be molcfted or injur'd, nor any man
from Italy. obliged to bear arms under CÆSAR Contrary to his own in-
vides Gaul
clinations.
87. That
Book I.
245
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
87. That CÆSAR, from the day of their ſurrender till C 1 v 1 L
their arrival at the Varus fhould furnish them with corn."
And of his own free will he promiſed to reſtore to every
man whatever he had loft during that war, if any of his
foldiers had it, to whom he paid an equal value by way of
fatisfaction.
After this, if the foldiers chanced to have any diſpute
amongst them, they immediately had recourfe to CÆSAR,
and fubmitted their differences to his arbitration. So when
they were ready to mutiny for want of pay, and AFRA-
NIUS and PETREIUS affirmed there was nothing due to
them, becauſe the day of payment was not come, the ge-
nerals defired CÆSAR might determine the matter, which
the army readily agreed to, and both parties were content
with the judgment he pronounced.
About a third part of their forces being difmiffed within
two days, CÆSAR commanded two of his legions to march
before the remainder of them, his other legions to follow
after, and always to encamp very near them. The charge
of this he committed to lieutenant Q. FUSIUS KAĻENUS;
who attended them to the river Varus, where the reſt of
the army was diſbanded.
C. J. C Æ-
R 3
C. J. CÆSAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF THE
CIVIL WAR.
The SECOND BOOK.
CIVIL
WAR.
Marſeilles clofely befieged. On NASIDIUS's arri-
val, a fecond fea-fight, with ill fuccefs on the fide
of the befieged. TREBONIUS's wonderful works.
The befieged demand a truce; which they break
themselves, but at last surrender. VARRO de-
ferted, falls into CESAR's power. CURIO at
first has good fuccefs in Africk; but engaging
rafhly, afterwards, is cut to pieces with his whole
army.
W
CHAP. I.
HILST theſe affairs were in agitation in Spain,
lieutenant C. TREBONIUS, whom CÆSAR had
left to carry on the ficge of Marſeilles, had be-
C. Treboni- gun to raiſe mounts, vines, and turrets, in two ſeveral
us cafts up a places againſt the town; one near the haven where the
mount, and
makes other
fhips lay, and the other near the mouth of the river
works. Rhofne for Marfeilles is fortified almoft on three ſeveral
fides by the fea, the remaining fourth part is all the ac-
cefs it has by land: Part of this avenue, which led to
the tower, being equally fortified by nature and a very
a
a For SCALIGER is of opinion theſe words, Ex Gallia atque Hifpania ad
jd mare quod attigit, ought to be expunged,
deep
Book II.
247
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
deep ditch, required a long and difficult fiege to take CIVIL
it in. For perfecting theſe fortifications, TREBONIUS
diſpatched orders to the whole province to furniſh him with
men, carriages, rods to make hurdles, and feveral other
neceffary materials to compleat the work; which being
prepared and brought together, he caft up a mount about
eighty foot in height.
2. But fo great plenty of all kinds of ammunition had the
befieged formerly ftored up in their magazines, fo many
engines had they prepared, that no vines made of hurdles
were fufficient defence againſt them; for their Baliſtæ ſhot
wooden bars about twelve foot in length, headed with iron,
which would force their way through four feveral rows of
hurdles into the ground: Wherefore the Romans were
obliged to cover their galleries with beams of timber twelve
inches fquare, under whofe covert they handed earth and
other materials from one to another, for compleating the
mount. A Teftudo likewife, fixty foot in length, was
moved on before them, to fecure them in levelling the
ground, built of ſtrong timber, and fortified with all mate-
rials neceffary to defend it from the fire and ftones which
the enemy caft from the walls. But the largeneſs of our
works, the height of their wall and towers, with the multi-
tude of their engines, made our fortifications proceed but
flowly Beſides, the Highlanders often fallied out of the
town, and fet fire to our mount and turrets; though our
foldiers eafily extinguiſhed it, and repulfed them back into
the town with confiderable lofs.
CHA P. II.
fleet to the
*
3.
IN the mean time, NASIDIUS being fent by POM-Nafidius ar-
PEY to the affiftance of the befieged with a fleet of fix-rives with a
teen ſhips, of which number fome were beaked with iron, affiftance of
paſſed the ſtreights of Sicily before CURIO * had notice of the befieged.
his expedition; and putting in at Meffina, ftruck fuch a Scel. i.30.
terror into the inhabitants, that the magiftrates and per-
fons of beft quality deferted the town; which gave him an
opportunity of furprizing one of the gallies in the haven:
adding this to the reft of his fleet, he purfued his voyage
to Marſeilles, and detached a fmall veffel before, to give
DOMITIUS notice of his approach, and encouraged the
befieged to venture a fecond engagement with Brutus
after they ſhould have joined his fleet.
LIPSIUS obferves the Baliſte were chiefly for ſhooting ſtones: here we find
them applied to other uſes.
R 4
The
248
Book II.
C. J. CESAR'S
CIVIL 4. The Marfeillians, fince their defeat, had repaired the
WAR. lofs, by taking other ſhips to make up their former num-
ber, out of the docks, which they equipped with great di-
ligence. They had likewife prepared great numbers of
rowers, mariners, pilots, and feveral fiſhermens veffels,
which they filled with archers and engines; thefe they co-
vered with a penthouſe, to defend the rowers from our darts
and javelins.
The
Their fleet being thus fitted out, the Marſeillians, in-
cited by the prayers and tears of the old men, virgins, and
matrons, to defend their country in its extremity, went on
board with no lefs valour and affurance than they did be-
fore. The arrival of NASIDIUS had infpired them with
freſh courage; for we naturally believe thofe things we
cannot fee, more confiderable than they really are, and our
hopes or fears ſtill bear a proportion to our fancy.
wind offering fair, they weighed anchor, and failed after
They join NASIDIUS at Tauroenta, a caſtle belonging to the peo-
Nafidius's ple of Marfeilles: the two fleets being joined, they en-
couraged each other vigorously to attack their enemy, and
having held a council of war, it was refolved the Marfeil-
lians fhould command the right, and NASIDIUS the left
fquadron.
Beet,
5. BRUTUS, having notice of their motions, made up
towards them; for he had encreaſed the fleet built at Arles
by CESAR, with fix other fhips, taken from the enemy,
which he repaired fince the laft engagement. Having en-
couraged his men to defpife thofe whom they had already
conquered when in their best condition, he bore up briſkly
to them: From TREBONIUS's camp, and the higher
ground, might eafily be difcovered what was doing in the
town; from thence our foldiers obferved, that all the youth
who remained in Marſeilles, the old men, women, children,
and the guards, with extended hands upon the walls, or
proftrating themſelves before the images at their temples,
befought the gods to grant them victory. Every one be
lieved the fate of their country depended on that day's fuc-
cefs; young gentlemen therefore, and perſons of the beſt
quality of all ages, were defired to go on board, that
nothing might be wanting for the prefervation of their
fleet in cafe of an emergency: for could they but obtain
this victory, either by their own valeur, or the affiftance of
their allies, they had no reafon to defpair of preferving their
city from falling into CESAR's hands.
CHAP.
Book II.
249
COMMENTARIES.
CHA P. III.
6. IN this engagement, the Marſeillians did not betray CIVIL
the leaft want of courage, but remembering the exhortations WAR.
lately given by their friends, fought as refolutely as if they
meant not to engage à ſecond time, or as if he who fell The fight
now, only anticipated the fate of his countrymen for a fhort begins.
moment, who muſt all ſubmit to the fame decifion of war,,
if fortune ſhould deliver the town into the enemy's hands.
Our gallies moving but flowly, their pilots had the greater
opportunity of fhewing their fkill, and the nimbleneſs of
their fhips: whenever we endeavoured to board one of them,
immediately the reft from all fides came up to defeat our
defign; but when we grappled, the Albici behaved fo
bravely, that they proved themſelves but little inferior to
our men; who at the fame time were not a little annoyed
by ſhowers of darts, which poured upon them from the
fmaller veffels. Two of their largeſt gallies, fpying our Two Mar-
admiral's fhip, which might eaſily be difcerned by the flag, feillian gal-
attempted to run foul on her, and cruſh her between lies defign to
them: but BRUTUS, being aware of their defign, made a tus, but fall
ſhift to get out of the way the moment they were coming foul upon
towards him with all their ſpeed, which made them run
upon each other with ſo violent a fhock, that one of their
beaks was broken, and the whole veffel almoſt ſhattered to
pieces; which our men obferving, they that lay neareſt, im-
mediately attacked and ſunk both of them before they could
recover their diſorder.
attack Bru-
each other.
fleet defeat-
7. NASIDIUS's gallies proved uſeleſs, and therefore im- Nafidius`
mediately left the fight, not having thofe powerful incen- flies, their
tives, the fight of their country, and the adjurations of their ed,five funk,
kindred, to fupport them in the laft extremity: he there- and four
fore loft none of his number; but of the Marfeillian fleet, fhips taken
five ſhips were funk, four taken, and one ran away with by Brutus.
NASIDIUS, who ſteered directly for the nearer Spain.
Of thoſe which were faved, one was fent before to Mar-
feilles to carry the news; upon the fight of which all the
people ran out to meet it. No fooner was the melancholy
report fpread, but the whole city was in fuch a confter-
nation, as if at that inftant it had been taken by the enemy.
The inhabitants however foon began to make ſuch pre-
parations for their defence as was neceffary.
CHA P. IV.
8. THE legionary foldiers, to whofe care the right fide
of the works was committed, obferved it would be of in-
finite
250
Book II.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVILfinite ufe, if inftead of their ſmall fortrefs, they built under
WAR. the walls a tower of brick, to defend them againſt the fre-
The foldiers quent fallies of the befieged. This at firft they raiſed to no
build a tower confiderable height, defigning it only for that particular pur-
to defend pofe; and here they took fhelter, and from the top of it de-
them from fended themſelves whenever they were overpowered; and
the befieged, from hence iffued forth again, when they were to repel or
the fallies of
raifed to a
greater
height.
purfue the enemy. This tower was thirty foot ſquare, and
the walls five foot in thicknefs; but afterwards, as expe-
rience improves all things, fo it was found neceffary to carry
this up to a greater height, which was thus effected:
which they
9. As foon as the work was raiſed to a fufficient height
afterwards for a ftory, the joifts were fo difpofed in the wall, that the
brick-work fhould cover them, and no fire from the
enemy catch hold of them. This floor compleated, they
proceeded in raifing the wall as high as the mantlets would
permit; and upon this flooring fix'd two tranfverfe beams,
whoſe ends extended almoſt as far as the wall would per-
mit; which were to fuftain the uppermoft floor, defigned
for a roof to the turret; and upon theſe beams they laid
joifts cutting each other at right angles, which they boarded
with planks: they were contrived fomething longer than
the reſt, and jetted a little further out than the wall, for
the convenience of faftening penthoufes to them, to defend
the workmen whilft they compleated the walls between
thoſe two ſtories. This uppermoft floor they paved with
lime and tiles, that the fire might have no power over it;
and laid mattreffes to break the force of darts and ftones,
which the enemy fhould fhoot from their engines. After
this, for their better fecurity, they prepared curtains woven
of ftrong cords, about four foot in breadth, which they hung
about thoſe three fides of the turret next the enemy, on
high poles; for this kind of defence, they had formerly ex-
perienced, could not be pierced by any dart or engine what-
ever: when one part of the tower was finifhed and com-
pleatly fortified, they removed their penthoufes to another.
fide. So high as thefe curtains would permit, and under
their coverture, they elevated the roof intire by the help of
fcrews, and finiſhed the wall between: then fcrewing up
the top a fecond time, they continued raifing the wall, till
they had built it to a convenient height for another ſtory,
which was floored like the reft: after this they fcrewed the
roof and curtain ftill higher, by which means, without dan-
ger of being wounded, they compleated fix feveral ſtories,
leaving loop-holes in convenient places to play the engines.
10. Believing
1
4
?
:
w face. p. 251.
A. The form of a Musculus.
A
KINAI
D
B
B. the Brick Tower ℃ the Curtain woven of Cords.
D). the Roof raised higher by degrees till & werk was free kert.
-
Book II.
251
COMMENTARIES.
10. Believing they ſhould be able, by the help of this CIVIL
tower, to defend all the works about it, they reſolved to WAR.
build a Mufculus fixty foot long, of timber two foot ſquare, The Mufcu
to extend from the brick turret to the walls of the town; lus defcribed.
which they built after this manner: Firſt two beams of an
equal length were laid upon the ground, at four foot diſ-
tance, on which ſmall pillars five foot high were erected;
which were braced with croſs beams, on which the rafters
which were to bear the roof of the Mufculus were to reſt:
upon theſe beams were fixed rafters two foot ſquare, which
were faſtened by iron plates and nails, and the roof was
covered with laths four fingers fquare, to bear the weight
of the tiles that were to be laid upon them. Thus the en-
gine being regularly built with a floping roof, they covered
it with clay, to defend it from fire; upon the tiles they
laid hides, to prevent the cement from being waſhed away
by ſpouts of water; and over the hides, to prevent the force
of ftones and fire, laid mattreffes. The work was begun
cloſe by the tower, finiſhed under the protection of the vines,
before the enemy had notice of it; and immediately re-
moved by rollers and leavers, as fhips are uſually launched,
fo near their tower, that it touched the wall.
endeavour in
:
11. The befieged were not a little diſturbed at this: The belieged
wherefore they provided the largeſt ftones they could get, vain to de-
and with leavers heaved them over the wall upon the Muf- ftroy the
culus: but perceiving the work was fo fubftantial, that it Mufculus.
did not give way to the weight of the ftones, which fell upon
it but flid from the ridge again, they refolved to take ano-
ther method, to fling down burning barrels of pitch, greaſe,
and other combuſtible matter; nor did this ftratagem an-
fwer the defign, for they flid likewife off from the roof, and
falling on the ground, were thruft away from the works
with forks and long poles. In the mean time our foldiers,
under the protection of this machine, began to undermine
the foundation of the enemy's turret. Our men from the
brick tower defended the Mufculus, and drove the befieged
from their walls and turrets, fo that they were obliged to
abandon the defence of them and ſeveral ſtones being pulled TheRomans
out of the foundation of their tower, part of it immediately
fell down, and the reft leaned, as if it would foon follow.
c For LX Lipfius reads Ix, because it would be difficult to get timber Lx
foot long, and two foot fquare; and becauſe fuch a length bears no proportion
to the width, which was but four foot. See his Poliorc. 1. i. dial. ix. Typogr.
CHAP.
}
undermine
a turret ;
which falls.
252
Book II.
C. J. CESAR'S
CIVIL
WAR.
CHAP. V.
12. THE besieged, aſtoniſhed at ſo ſudden a calamity
as the downfal of their tower, poffeffed with a belief that the
gods were angry with them, and dreading the next evil,
The befieg'd the plunder of their city, came out unarmed, array'd in
furprized, facred attire, extending their hands to the lieutenant-ge-
till Cæfar's nerals for mercy. Upon fo extraordinary a fight, all acts
arrival.
A truce
rival.
of hoftility ceafed, and the foldiers dropped their fierce-
nefs to hear the purport of ſo folemn an embaffy. So foon
as the befieged came to the camp, they threw themſelves
at the lieutenants feet, moft humbly befeeching them to
grant a truce till CÆSAR's arrival; fince their city feemed
already taken, our works to be perfected, and their turret
deftroyed, they ſhould make no longer defence: that the
delay they afked could be of no ill confequence, for if upon
CÆSAR's arrival they did not comply with his commands,
they would ftill be open to deftruction: but ſhould their
turret be now demoliſhed, it would be impoffible to reſtrain
the foldiers from rufhing into the town and plundering it.
This, and more to the like purpofe, they ſpoke with per-
fuafive tears, and a moving accent, as people that under-
ſtood the arts of addrefs and politeness.
13. Whereupon, the lieutenants, moved with compaf-
granted till fion, withdrew their foldiers from the walls, defifted from
Cæfar's ar- carrying on the fiege, left a guard to protect their works:
and having granted them a kind of a truce out of pity,
reſolved to expect CÆSAR's arrival. No darts paffed from
our works to the town, nor any from the walls to us;
all men were as careleſs as if the place had been actually
ours; for CÆSAR had given particular orders to TREBO-
NIUS in his letters, not to let Marfeilles be taken by ſtorm,
left the foldiers, enraged at the enemy's rebellion and con-
tempt, and regretting the pains themſelves had taken in the
fiege, fhould put all that bore arms to the fword; which
was what they now threatened, and could hardly be re-
ftrained from executing, and much refented their being
prevented by TREBONIUS.
The befieg'd
break the
CHAP.
VI.
14. BUT the treacherous enemy only watched a fit op-
truce, fet portunity to break the truce. Within a few days after,
fire to Tre- when our foldiers were grown remifs, when feveral were
bonius's
works.
diſperſed,
Book II.
253
COMMENTARIES.
difperfed, others laid down to reft themſelves, and all the CIVIL
arms laid up, about noon they fallied out of the town, and WAR.
fet fire to our works. The wind, which was very high,
and blew in our faces, fo difperfed the flames, that in an
inſtant the mount, teftudo, mantlets, tower, and engines,
all were fired and conſumed before we were fenfible of the
occafion of it. Our foldiers, alarmed by this fudden turn,
immediately ſeized fuch arms as they could find, and
charged the enemy, but were prevented from purſuing
them, by darts and engines from the town: the befieged
retired under their walls, and there, without danger, put
fire to the Mufculus and brick turret.
Thus in a moment
periſhed the effects of feveral months labour, by the per-
fidiouſneſs of the enemy, and the violence of the wind.
The day after, the wind continuing ftill in the.fame corner,
the Marfeillians made the like attempt again, and fallying
out with greater affurance than before, brought plenty of
fire to confume the other mount and tower. But our men,
admoniſhed by the laſt day's action to be more careful for
the future, had prepared all things neceffary for their de-
fence: wherefore having killed great numbers, they obliged
the reft to retreat into the town without effecting their de-
fign.
15. TREBONIUS now began to rebuild what had been Trebonius
confumed by the fire; and the foldiers gave greater proofs repairs his
of their induftry than before; enraged to fee their former works.
labours brought to nothing, their courage derided, and the
truce broken by the perjured enemy, fince there were no
materials left for building a new mount (all the timber round
about having been cut down, and applied to the former
work) they began to raiſe a new-faſhioned one, never ſeen
before, with two fide-walls of brick, each fix foot thick;
theſe they joined together with floors almoft at the fame
diſtance as the other which had been made of timber: but
wherever the ſpace between the walls, or the weakneſs of
the work ſeemed to require it, piles were driven in, and
crofs beams laid over them, to add farther ftrength. The
flooring was laid with hurdles, which were afterwards co-
vered with clay.
16. Thus our men being defended on the right and left The works
by the walls, and in front by the mantlets, fafely brought finished.
the materials which were neceffary for carrying on the
work. Every thing was difpatch'd with vigour, and the
painful labours which the enemy had deftroyed were foon
repaired by the indefatigable care and application of the
foldiers.
254
Book II.
'C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL foldiers. Portals were left in convenient places to fally out.
WAR. from upon occafion.
$
But the befieged perceiving thofe works compleated in a
The befieg'd few days, which they flattered themſelves could not be
comply a fe-
cond time. rebuilt in a much longer time; finding there was now no
room for deceit or fallies, that it was not in their
power to oppoſe our ſoldiers, or put fire to our works ;
confidering that by the fame methods, all that part of Mar-
feille's which was acceffible by land, might likewiſe be
blocked up with a wall and turrets, from whence darts
might be caft into the town by the foldiers hands, whilſt
the nearnefs of the place would render their engines ufe-
lefs, which they had fo much relied on; that our men
would enjoy the fame advantage of fighting from the tur-
rets, as they from their walls, and that they were no match
for us upon equal terms, they again had recourſe to the
conditions they had broken.
Varro's
CHAP. VII.
17. AT the beginning of the civil war, M. VARRO,'
trimming. who poffefs'd the farther province of Spain, underſtanding
how affairs went in Italy, and doubting the fuccefs of
POMPEY's cauſe, uſed to ſpeak very favourably of CÆSAR:
that POMPEY having retained him for his lieutenant, he
was obliged to be faithful to him; but his private inclina-
tions made him with well to the other: for as he was not
ignorant of a lieutenant's duty, who was entruſted by his
fuperior officer, and of his own power; ſo neither was he
a ftranger to the affection which the whole province bore to
CASAR. This was the fubject of his difcourfe in publick,
without declaring for either fide. But afterwards, when
he underſtood CÆSAR was detained at Marſeilles, that PE-
TREIUS and AFRANIUS were joined, that they had con-
fiderable reinforcements come in to them, that the nearer
province had unanimoufly refolved to fupport them, with
an account of what afterwards happened, when CÆSAR
was reduced to fuch ftraights at Lerida, which was fet off
to the beſt advantage in AFRANIUS's letters, he began to
change his principles with fortune.
His prepara-
18. He raiſed forces throughout his whole province; to
tions on the the two compleat legions which he had with him, he added
far's ill fuc- thirty auxiliary cohorts, and prepared a great quantity of
corn, as well for the relief of the Marfcillians as of PE-
TREIUS and AFRANIUS. He commanded the people of
cefs.
Cadiz
Book II.
255
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
Cadiz to equip ten gallies, and gave orders for building fe- C 1 v 1 L
veral more at Seville: he removed all the money and or-
naments out of the temple of HERCULES into the town
of Cadiz, detached fix cohorts thither for a garrison, and
made CAIUS GALLONIUS, a Roman knight, who had
been fent thither by DOMITIUS to recover an eſtate that
belonged to him, governor of the town; giving orders
that all the arms of the city, as well publick as private,
fhould be lodged in GALLONIUS's houſe. He himſelf in
the mean time ſpread reports to CÆSAR's difadvantage,
often declaring in council, that he had certain affurances
of his being feveral times defeated, and that multitudes of
deferters flocked from his army to AFRANIUS. By which
means he ſo terrified the Roman citizens of his province,
that they were compelled to promife him one hundred and
ninety thouſand fefterces, twenty thoufand weight of filver,
and one hundred and twenty thouſand buſhels of wheat.
d
On those countries which he thought well affected to
CASAR he laid heavier taxes, and quartered his foldiers;
and gave judgment himſelf upon feveral private perſons.
He confifcated the goods of thofe that had ſpoke openly
againſt the government; and obliged the whole province
to fwear allegiance to himſelf and to POMPEY. Having
notice at laſt how affairs went in the further Spain, he
prepared for war; which he refolved to manage thus: to
retire with his two legions to Cadiz, where all the fhip-
ping and provifions lay; for he knew the whole province
was inclinable to CESAR's intereft; but he hoped he might
eafily prolong the war in that iſland, being fo well ſtored
with corn and fhipping.
CHAP. VIII.
CESAR, though he found himſelf called upon for
many reafons to return to Italy, yet refolved to leave no
་
a The number of theſe fefterces is almoſt incredible, confidering how much
they would amount to; therefore I dare fay this must be a corruption of the
text: but what the certain number ſhould be, I fhall not-pretend to determine.
Every feftertium, in the neuter gender, according to BUDEUS, was of the
value of five pounds fterling; or, as others will have it, feven pounds ten fhil-
lings, BLADEN: who having first tranflated cxc HS. by 190,000 fel-
terces (much too little) confounded them with fo many feftertia, a thoufand
times as much, and then was startled at a fum which amounts to 1,425,000l.
of our money, reckoning what he calls feftertium at 71. ros. HOTOMAN
interprets it centies nonagies, 19,000,000 of feſterces, which at 2 d. each comes
to 158,3331. 6 s. 8 d. But why may not the reading of the old edition be the
true? cxc millia, which I would interpret centies nonaginta millia nummâm,
10,090,000 HS. or 84,083 1. 6s. 8d. The 20,000 weight of filver by the
fame computation comes to 66661. 13 s. 4 d. *Typogr.
embers
256
Book II.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL embers of a war in Spain behind him, knowing well that
the farther province had many obligations to POMPEY,
and that he had ſtill ſeveral well-wishers there.
WAR.
Cæfar re-
folves to
march a-
gainst Va-
retired to
ro, who is
Cadiz.
the ſtates to
Cordova.
19. He fent therefore two legions before, under the
command of Q. CASSIUS, tribune of the people, and he
himſelf followed by long marches with fix hundred cavalry,
having publiſhed a proclamation, whereby he appointed all
the magiftrates and nobility of the country to meet him on
Summons a day prefixed at Cordova. This proclamation being dif
meet him at perfed throughout the whole province, every ftate fent part
of their fenate thither to reprefent them, and all the Ro-
man citizens of note appeared there, by the day appointed.
The ſtates being thus affembled, of their own accord ſhut
the
They affem-
of Cordova againſt VARRO, difpofed centinels on
gates
ble, and fhut the walls and in the turrets, and retained two cohorts called
the gates a-Colonice (which were accidentally marching that way)
gainſt Varro.
to protect the town. About the fame time the people of
revolts to Carmona, which is the ſtrongeſt town in the whole pro-
Cæfar, ex- vince, drove the three cohorts VARRO left there, out of
pels Varro's
their citadel, and fhut the gates of the town againſt them.
garrifon.
Carmona
20. All theſe circumftances obliged VARRO to make
more hafte to Cadiz with his legions, left he ſhould be in-
tercepted in his march, or in his paffage over from the
continent. So general and fo great was the affection,
which the whole province fhewed to CESAR, that he had
Cadiz does not marched far before he received letters from Cadiz, ac-
the like.
quainting him, that immediately on receipt of his procla-
mation, as well the inhabitants as garrifon, had agreed to
expel GALLONIUS, and fecure the town and iſland for
him: that they had civilly acquainted their governor with
this refolution, advifing him to quit the island, whilft he
might with fafety; which if he refuſed to do, they ſhould
be obliged to take other methods: whereupon, GALLO-
NIUS, intimidated with this meffage, had fled from Cadiz.
On receipt of this news, one of VARRO's legions, called
The Legio
Vernacula Vernacula, taking up their enfigns, quitted the camp whilft
deferts from VARRO ftood by, and marched directly to Seville, where
they fat themſelves down in the market-place and publick
Seville. ftreets, without doing hurt to any one; which the Roman
Gitizens refiding there, were fo well fatisfied with, that
every one was defirous to quarter them in their houſes.
VARRO being uneafy to fee himſelf in fo ill a fituation,
ing himfelf began to think of retreating to Niebla; but upon enquiry
blocked up found all the paffes thither prepoffeffed: being thus locked
on all fides, up on every fide, he fent a meffenger to CASAR to ac-
quaint
Varro,
marches to
Varro find-
furrenders.
Book II.
257
COMMENTARIES.
WARI
quaint him he was ready to deliver the legion under his CIVIL
command to whom he ſhould pleaſe to appoint: upon
which he ſent SEXTIUS CÆSAR to receive it. VARRO
having furrender'd up the legion, went himſelf to Cordova
to wait upon CÆSAR; where he laid before him an ac-
count of his adminiſtration, and of the publick treaſure,
which he delivered into his hands: he likewiſe informed
him what ſtore of corn and fhipping he had provided, and
where they were:
makes a
21. CESAR in a publick oration at Cordova, returned Cæfar
thanks to all in general; to the Roman citizens, for taking fpeech at
care to ſecure the town in their own cuftody; to thofe of Cordova,
Carmona, for expelling the garrison; to the people of Ca- returns every
diz, for diſappointing the defigns of his enemies and vin- be thanks,
dicating their own freedom; to the tribunes of the foldiers
and centurions, who came thither to guard the place, for
confirming the town in their affections to him, by their
counfel and example. After this he remitted the tax,
which VARRO had impoſed on the Roman citizens ;
cauſed their goods to be reſtored, who, he underſtood, had
been fined for their freedom of ſpeech; to ſome diſtributing
publick, to others private rewards, he revived the hopes
of the reft of the province; and after a ftay of two days at
Cordova, took his journey to Cadiz. On his arrival there, Cæfar goes
he cauſed the money and ornaments, which had been taken to Cadiz,
out of the temple of HERCULES and laid up in private thence to
hands, to be carried thither again. He committed the Tarragona,
province to the care of CASSIUS, with an army of four le-
gions; and embarking on board the gallies which VARRO
had cauſed to be equipped at Cadiz, arrived within a few
days at Tarragona, where embaffadors from moſt of the
ftates in the nearer province expected him. Here likewife
having conferred ſeveral marks of his favour upon every
ftate, he left Tarragona, and marched from thence by land
to Marſeilles, where he firſt received news of the edict for rives at Mar-
conftituting a ² dictator, and that M. LEPIDUS, the præ- feilles, is
tor, had named him for the perſon.
CHAP. IX.
and from
Cæfar ar
made dicta.
tor.
The Mar-
22. THE people of Marſeilles, being wearied out with
all kinds of evils; reduced to great ftraights for want of feillians re-
corn; twice defeated at fea; often repulfed with lofs when folve to fùre
a The dictators ufed always before to be named by the confuls in the night,
but the neceffity of the time difpenfed with the uſual form,
S
they
render:
258
Book II.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL they fallied; afflicted with a dreadful peftilence, occafioned
WAR. by their confinement, and change of diet (for they fubfifted
wholly upon old meal, and mufty barley, which had been
long before laid up in their magazines againſt the fiege ;)
their tower being undermined; great part of their wall
fallen down; and deſpairing of thoſe ſupplies from the two
provinces of Spain, which they underſtood were now in
CESAR's power; refolved to ſurrender in good earneft.
Domitius But a few days before, L. DOMITIUS having notice of
efcapes out their defign, got three fhips, accommodated his friends
of the town, with two of them, and embarking in the third himſelf
Marſeilles
difcretion.
whilft the fea was rough, endeavoured to make his eſcape:
fome of BRUTUS's gallies, which perpetually cruiſed about
the mouth of the haven, perceiving this, weighed anchor
and followed him; whereupon two of DOMITIUS's fhips
were frightened back into the haven again, but that where
he was on board made the beſt of her way, and by favour
of foul weather got out of fight.
The Marſeillians, as they were commanded, furrendered
furrenders at their arms and engines, delivered up the fhips which were
in their harbour, together with the publick treaſure: where-
upon CÆSAR, being willing to fave the town, rather for
the fake of its name and antiquity, than any merit the people
could plead, left a garrifon of two legions there, ſent the
reſt of his army into Italy, and went himſelf to Rome.
Curio fails to
Africk.
CHA P. X.
a
23.
IN the mean time CURIO had failed from Sicily to
Africk, and, deſpifing the forces of P. ACTIUS VARUS,
only tranſported two of the four legions which he received
from CÆSAR, with five hundred horfe. Having been two
days and three nights at fea, he arrived at Aquilaria, about
twenty-two miles diftant from the Clupei; who have a
very convenient harbour for fhips in fummer time, ſhel-
tered on each fide by two eminent promontories. Here
LUCIUS CÆSAR, the fon, expected his arrival with ten
gallies, which had formerly been taken from pirates, and
Lucius Cæ- repaired by VARUS at Utica; but frightened at the num-
ber of CURIO's fleet, he ran his galley on fhore; and lea-
ving her there, marched by land to Adrumetum, a town
Curio's ap- poffeffed by c. CONSIDIUS LONGUS, with a garrison of
Eis galley on one legion. The rest of CÆSAR's fleet, feeing their ad-
far the
younger, on
notice of
proach, runs
a So called from its fhape like a fhield. Naturalifts fay, fcorpions will not
live near this place.
miral
1
Book II.
259
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
miral run away, put into Adrumetum: M. RUFUS, the CIVIL
quæftor, by CURIO's orders purfued L. CASAR with twelve
fhips, which came from Sicily as a convoy to the tranf-
fhore, and
ports and tenders; but finding the galley upon the fand, flies to Adru
he towed her off, and returned again to the fleet.
b
metum.
is now called
Rufus to U-
ther by land.
24. CURIO fent RUFUS before with the navy to Utica, Adrumetum
whither he defigned to march with his army by land in Mahometa.
two days journey he arrived at the river Bagrada, where Curio fends
he left C. CANINIUS REBILUS with the legions, and went tica with the
before with the cavalry, to take a view of the Cornelian fleet, and
camp; which was eſteemed a very convenient place to take marches thi-
up their quarters in: for it is the ridge of a very ſteep hill Encamps at
jetting out into the fea, difficult of accefs on all fides, but the Corne-
that towards Utica; whence there was a gentle defcent, lian camp.
and not above a mile's diſtance from the town, the direct
way but in the midft, between this place and Utica, was
a fountain towards the fea, which difcharging itſelf into
the plain, made a marfh, that obliged the traveller to take
a circuit of fix miles, before he could arrive at Utica.
25.
From hence CURIO beheld VARUS's camp, which
joined to Utica at the gate called Bellica, and was ftrongly
fortified by the nature of the place; for on one fide it was
defended by the town, on the other by a theatre, which
ſtood without the wall, and took up fo large a compafs of
ground, that it rendered the avenues to the camp very nar-
row and difficult. Hence likewife he obferved great ſtore
of carriages making towards the town, from the country,
upon this alarm; whereupon he detached fome of his ca-
valry to plunder them. About the fame inftant VARUS
had likewiſe ſent a party of 600 Numidian horfe, with 400
infantry, which he had lately received from king JUBA,
to guard the roads. This prince was equally moved to af-
fift VARUS, by the friendſhip which had been between
his father and POMPEY, and the hatred he bore CURIO, A fkirmiſh
who when tribune preferred a law for fequeftring his king- between Cu
dom. In fine, the cavalry on both fides met, but the rio's cavalry
Numidians were not able to ſuſtain our charge; about 120 midian
of them being killed, the reft efcaped to the town.
26. In the mean time our gallies being arrived, cURIO
cauſed it to be proclaimed, That fuch victuallers as rode ty gets the
at anchor at Utica (being about two hundred in number)
c
Or Magrada: this river flows between Carthage and Utica: here RAGU-
Lus killed the ferpent above 220 foot long.
Thefe victuallers did not belong to him, as appears by his fpecch after-
wards.
and the Nue
horfe.
Curio's par
better.
S 2
which
260
C. J. CÆSA R'S
WAR.
Book II.
CIVIL which did not immediately hoiſt fail for the Cornelian camp,
fhould be efteemed as enemies: on notice of this order,
they all immediately weighed anchor, left Utica, and re-
paired to the place appointed, which furniſhed the camp
with plenty of proviſions of all kinds.
26. After this he returned to Bagrada, where by univer-
fal conſent of the whole army, he was faluted with the title
of ¢ Imperator.
તું
CHA P. XI.
THE next day CURIO marched his whole army to-
wards Utica, and encamped near the town; but before the
fortifications of his camp were compleated, the outguard of
the cavalry brought advice, that confiderable reinforcements,
both horfe and foot, were marching towards the enemy
from king JUBA at the fame time a duft was feen to arife
at a diſtance, and prefently the front appeared. CURIO
being a little furprized at this, fent his cavalry before to
receive the enemy's charge, and find them employment till
A confider- he could difpofe his legions in order of battle. The horfe
able party of
Juba's rout- engaged, and, before the legions could be drawn up, rout-
ed by Cu- ed the king's forces; who marched very carelefly, and
rio's cavalry. without any manner of order: feveral of the foot were flain,
but the enemy's horfe being nimble, moſt of them made
their escape along the fhore into the town.
Two centu-
to Varus.
27. The next night, two centurions of the country of
rions defert Marfia deferted from CURIO, and went over to the ene-
my with two and twenty maniples: theſe, either out of a
defign to pleaſe VARUS, or becauſe it was really their opi-
nion (for we easily believe what we wifh, and hope other
men are of the fame opinion with ourſelves) pofitively af-
firmed, that the legions were difaffected to CURIO; where-
fore it might be of great advantage, if both armies were
drawn out, and could come to conference with each other.
Both armies VARUS believing their intelligence, early the day after
drawn out. drew out his legions; CURIOo did the like, and both arinies
were diſpoſed in order of battle in a ſmall valley, not far
from one another.
28. SEXTUS QUINCTILIUS VARUS, who, as we have
already obferved, had been taken at Corfinium, was now
in the enemy's army; for being difmiffed by CÆSAR, he
had failed into Africk. It happened, CURIO had tranf-
d A mark of honour the foldiers paid the Generaliffimo after fome fucceſsful
enterprize.
ported
Book II.
261
COMMENTARIES.
?
WAR.
diers.
ported thoſe legions that CÆSAR took at Corfinium, which CIVIL
were ſtill commanded almoſt by all the fame officers.
QUINCTILIUS therefore thinking this a happy opportu- Quinctilius's
nity, went up and down CURIO's army, and "
beſought ſpeech to
the foldiers to remember the firſt oath they had taken to Curio's fol-
DOMITIUS and him, their pay-maſter, not to bear arms
againſt them, who had fhared the fame fortune and fuf-
fered in the fame fiege together; nor affift thofe, who had
formerly reproached them with the name of deferters.”
To this fpeech he added fome promifes of rewards, which
they might expect from his generofity, if they came over
to him and VARUS. Such was the harangue of QUINC-
TILIUS, but none of CURIO's foldiers made him an an-
ſwer; fo both armies retreated again into their camps.
camp.
29. However, CURIO's camp was poffeffed with ftrange A mutiny
apprehenfions, which were quickly increaſed by variety of in Curio's
diſcourſes; for every man framed different conceits, and
every report was augmented by fear. In fine, what was
first invented by one, came to be talk'd of by ſo many,
that there appeared to be feveral authors of the fame no-
tions: «That it was lawful for every man, in a civil
war, to do what he thought convenient, and chooſe his own
party; that theſe two legions not long before belonged to
POMPEY; and fince CESAR offered governments, even
thoſe that were his enemies, ſuch favours fhould teach them
not to neglect their ancient friendſhip and acquaintance." But
they came not all from Marlia and Pelignia, as thoſe who
had deferted the night before: therefore fome reprimanded
their fellow-foldiers for talking fo freely; and others, who
would appear more diligent in their duty than the reft, en-
larged thefe difcourfes in their informations to the officers.
CHA P. XII.
council of
war ;
vari-
30. UPON this CURIO immediately fummoned a coun Curio calls a
cil of war, to confult what methods were proper to be ta-
ken. Some were of opinion, " 'Twas neceffary forthwith ous opinions.
to attack VARUs in his trenches, becaufe nothing could fo
effectually baniſh theſe notions out of the foldiers heads, as
employment." Some, "That it was much better to put
their fortune upon the hazard of a battle, than prolong the
time till they ſhould be deferted, and expoſed to the fatal con-
fequences that muft neceffarily follow." Others voted for
retreating to the Cornelian camp about one the next
All the reft of this paragraph is fo corrupted and confufed in the original,
it cannot be rendered into English; but I have aimed at CESAR's meaning as
near as I could.
S 3
morning,
262
Ċ. J. CÆSAR'S
Book II.
CIVIL morning, that the foldiers having time to confider, might
WAR. return to their duty; and if any inconvenience ſhould hap-
pen, being near the fleet they might eaſily retire to Sicily.'
I
31. But CURIO approved of none of thefe, for he thought
one opinion as void of courage, as the other of conduct;
fince one adviſed a ſhameful retreat, and the other attack-
ing an enemy at ſo great a diſadvantage. "With what
affurance, faid he, can we expect to take the enemy's
Curio's camp, which is ſo well fortified by art and nature? And
Speech to the what will be the confequence of returning with lofs from
council. the attempt? As if the affection of an army to their general,
did not depend on his good or bad fuccefs. But then, as to
decamping, what conftruction can be made of it, but
cowardice and deſpair? And what the effect, but the con-
tempt of the foldiers? The obedient and loyal foldier fhould
never think he is miftrufted; nor the refractory know
he is feared; which ferves only to encreaſe the arrogance
of the one, and alienate the affections of the other. But
taking it for granted that the army is fo ripe for mutiny, as
we are informed (which account, for my part, I believe
either wholly falfe, or much leſs than report has made it)
how much more were it for our intereft to hide and diffem-
ble, than confirm it? We ought to conceal defects in our
forces, with the fame induſtry as the wounds of our body,
that we may not give the enemy new hopes. But what
could they deſign, that adviſed decamping about midnight;
except affording thoſe who had a mind to mutiny, the bet-
ter opportunity to do it? For diſorders of this nature are of
ten fuppreffed either by fhame or fear, which are both con-
cealed by darknefs. For thefe reafons, I neither am fo
deſperate as to attack the enemy in their trenches, without
any manner of proſpect, nor ſo oppreffed with fear, as to
be wanting to myfelf; wherefore I fhall experience all me-
thods before I agree to the opinions propofed; and I doubt
not, but the majority of you will agree in my refolution,"
Curio's
Sprech to the
foldiers.
CHAP.
XIII.
32. UPON this, difmiffing the council, he caufed the
foldiers to be affembled, and made an harangue to them,
wherein he reminded them, "What a ſignal piece of ſervice
they had done CÆSAR at Corfinium: that their friendſhip
and authority had induced a confiderable part of Italy to
declare in his behalf; for, faid he, all the municipal towns
immediately followed your example; wherefore you were
juftly
Book II.
263
COMMENTARIESCOM
.
justly esteemed as much by CESAR, as you were CIVIL
hated by his adverfaries. For POMPEY, without lofing a WAR.
battle, was obliged by your revolt to quit Italy; whereupon
CESAR, out of his particular affection to me, committed
me to your protection, and with me the provinces of Sicily
and Africk, without which he could neither preferve Rome,
nor the reſt of Italy. 'Tis true, you have been adviſed to
leave us; and certainly nothing could be more grateful to
our enemies than to ruin us, and at the fame inftant bind
you to their intereft, by making you commit fo vile an
action. Let me tell you, 'tis a proof that they entertain
but a very baſe opinion of you, to think you could be in-
duced to betray thofe, who own themſelves indebted to you
for every thing; and put yourſelves again into their power,
who declare you have ruined them. Have you not been
informed of CESAR'S fuccefs in Spain? that he has con-
quered two armies, two generals, and reduced two pro-
vinces, within forty days after he firſt beheld the enemy.
If they who had never been worſted before, were not able
to reſiſt him, how fhall the defeated do it? And will you,
who generouſly ran the hazard of CESAR's fate, defert
him, after fortune has decided the caufe in his favour, and
the time is arrived for rewarding your fervices; to embrace
the conquered party, who remind you of your former oath,
and brand you with the names of traitors and deferters?
But did you defert DOMITIUS, or DOMITIUS his foldiers?
Were you not ready to have endured the laſt extremities,
whilft he privately endeavoured to eſcape? Were you not
betrayed by him, and faved by CAESAR's mercy? And how
can the oath any longer oblige you, when he to whom you
fwore, having thrown afide all marks of confular dignity,
became a private perfon, and a captive to another? You dif-
charge yourſelves from your laft oath, to revive the obli-
gation of a former, which was cancelled by the fubmiffion
of your general, and the forfeiture of your liberties. But per-
haps you approve of CESAR's caufe, yet diflike your gene-
ral: For my part, I ſhall not recount the obligations you have
to me, becauſe they are much inferior to my own defire and
your deferts: though foldiers always ufed to attend for their
rewards till the war was determined; the fuccefs of which,
in my opinion, you have now no reafon to doubt of. Shall
I take notice, to how fair a profpect my diligence has al-
ready brought you? Are you forry that I have fafely tranf-
ported the army hither, without the lofs of a fingle veffel?
That on my firſt arrival I put the enemy's fleet to flight?
That I was twice fuccefsful over their cavalry in two days
time?
S 4
264
C. J. CESA R'S
Book II.
CIVIL time? That I brought two hundred victuallers and tenders
WAR. Out of the enemy's port, and reduced them to fuch necef-
fities, that they could neither be ſupplied by fea nor land?
Will you therefore defert all this good fortune, will you
quit the general that has done theſe things, and return to
thoſe who delivered up Corfinium with fo much ignominy,
who fled from Italy, furrendered Spain, and fhare with them
the ill fuccefs of the African war? For my part, I defired
no greater name than that of CÆSAR's foldier; you thought
fit to honour with me that of Imperator: but if you repent
of what you have done, I fhall freely furrender the title:
give me back my name again, that you may not appear to
have advanced me only to make my fall the greater."
The effect
had upon the
foldiers.
CHA P. XIV,
33. THIS fpeech had fo extraordinary an effect upon
the ſpeech the foldiers, that they often interrupted him, to exprefs
their grief for being ſuſpected: and, when he had finiſhed
his oration, unanimouſly defired him to depend upon their
fidelity, and engage the enemy. Thus all peoples minds
being changed, and'the army's affection confirmed, cu-
RIO, by general confent, refolved to lay hold of the firſt op-
Both armies portunity for giving VARUS battle: wherefore, the day af-
drawn up, ter he drew out all his forces in the fame place as formerly:
and VARUS did the like, either defigning to obtain another
conference with our foldiers, or to embrace an occaſion for
engaging us upon equal terms.
The battle
begins,
Varus's
34. The valley between the two armies, as we have al-
ready taken notice, was not very large, though of difficult.
afcent; therefore both expected which would firſt endeavour
to paſs it, that they might encounter each other to the
greater advantage. At length VARUS's cavalry, mixed
with the light armed foot, which was the left wing of his
army, defcended from the hill: CURIO fent his horfe, and
two cohorts of the Marrucini to engage them; whoſe firſt
horse routed, charge their cavalry were not able to fuftain, but clapping
fpurs to their horfes, retreated as faft as they could to the
main body; leaving the infantry that came along with them
to the mercy of our foldiers, who furrounded and cut them
to pieces, in view of their own army. Upon which, RE-
BILUS, one of CASAR's lieutenants (whom CURIO had
brought along with him out of Sicily, on account of his great
experience in military affairs) cried out; "CURIO, you
fee fear has poffeffed the enemy, why don't you
't you immediate-
lay lay hold of this happy occafion?" CURIO took his ad-
vice,
Book II.
255
COMMENTARIES.
vice, and only ftaying to put the foldiers in mind of their CIVIL
promife made the day before, advancing himſelf before the WA R.
reft, commanded them to follow him. The aſcent was fo
fteep, that the foremoſt could hardly get up without the af
fiftance of thoſe that came after; but the enemy were ſo
frightened with the rout and laughter of their men, that
they did not endeavour to oppofe us. In fine, they thought His whole
themſelves already furrounded by our cavalry; and before a army flies.
dart was thrown, or we approached them, the whole army
turned their backs, and retired into their camp.
Varus's life.
he is killed.
35. During the purfuit, FABIUS a Pelignian, a foldier of Fabius's at
the lowest rank amongft CURIO's forces, coming up with tempt on
the firſt troop of the enemy, called aloud upon VARUS,
as if he had been one of his own party, and had ſomething
extraordinary to impart to him. VARUS hearing himfelf
called fo often, ftood still, and looking back, demanded his
buſineſs: upon which FABIUS made a ſtroke at his ſhoul-
der which was unarmed, and had certainly killed him, had His defign
not the other received the blow upon his fhield; but he miffes, and
was foon furrounded, and cut to pieces by the foldiers that
ſtood next him. The gates of their camp were imme-
diately thronged by thofe that fled, who hindered each.
other; and more were crouded to death, than fell either in The enemy
the battle or purfuit. We had almoſt taken their trenches, routed, they
and fome of them fled directly into the town; but the na- another to
ture of the place, and the fortifications which VARUS had death in the
thrown up, prevented the entrance of our army which had purfuit.
been drawn out only to fight a battle, and wanted materials
to fill up the ditches: wherefore CURIO retreated to his quar-
ters again, without the lofs of a man, except FABIUS: but
on the enemy's fide were fix hundred killed, and a thouſand
wounded; who upon CURIO's departure went into the
town, with many others who retired thither out of fear,
though under another pretence. Which VARUS perceiving,
and taking notice of the confternation his army was in, led
them out filently about midnight, and marched into the
town, leaving only a trumpet in the camp, with a few
tents for a fhew.
CHA P. XV.
croud one
36. THE next day CURIO refolved to befiege Utica, Curio befie-
The town ges Utica.
and draw a line of circumvallation about it.
had many inhabitants, whom a long peace had made wholly
ignorant of war; and having formerly received feveral fa-
vours
266
Book II.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL Vours from CESAR, ftood well-affected to his intereft:
WAR. the common-council, which confifted of feveral forts of
people, were fo frightened with the ill fuccefs which they
had hitherto met with, that they talked publickly of fur-
rendering; and defired VARUS not to ruin them by his ob-
ftinacy. But whilft this was in agitation, a meffenger ar-
The town rived from JUBA, affuring them, that he was coming to
their affiftance with a confiderable force, and encouraging
them to hold out; which news diffipated their fears, and
of Juba's gave them freſh courage.
defigns to
furrender;
but on news
not believe it
at first.
the Corne-
approach,
37. CURIO likewife had notice of this, but confided ſo
change their
refolution. much in his good fortune, that at firſt he could hardly be-
Curio will lieve it: for the news of CESAR's fuccefs in Spain being
now publickly known in Africk, he could not be per-
fuaded JUBA would attempt any thing againſt him. But at
laft being fatisfied the king was already arrived with his
army within twenty-five miles of Utica, he quitted his
Retreats to works, and retreated to CORNELIUS's camp. Here he
lian camp. began to intrench himſelf, to provide corn, and immediately
diſpatched away meffengers into Sicily for the other two
legions, and the reft of the horſe he had left behind him.
The camp was very advantageouſly fortified to protract
the war, both by art and nature, lying near the fea, plen-
tifully ftored with water and falt, whereof ftore had been
lately imported from the neighbouring falt-pits: In fine, he
neither could want wood, trees, nor corn, wherewith the
adjacent fields abounded: wherefore, by general appro-
bation, here CURIO refolved to expect the arrival of the
reft of his forces, and prepare for the war.
Curio re-
intelligence.
38. Having reſolved upon this fcheme by publick con
ceives falſe fent, he was informed by fome deferters from the town,
that JUBA was obliged to return home to defend the borders
of his kingdom, and compofe the difputes amongst the
Leptitani; but had fent his general SABURA with a ſmall
number of forces, who were marching towards Utica.
CURIO giving too eafy credit to this intelligence, altered
his former deſign, and now refolved to try the event of a
He refolves battle: his youthful ardour, greatneſs of mind, former fuc-
to fight Sa- ceſs, and dependance upon his good fortune, precipitated
him upon this enterprize. Induced by theſe motives, at
the beginning of the night he detached the cavalry before to
the enemy's camp, at the river Bagrada; where SABURA,
whom we mentioned but now, 'commanded in chief. But
bura.
g As well natives as Roman citizens, like that at Seville.
JUBA
1
Book II.
267
COMMENTARIES.
JUBA himſelf followed after him, and had taken up his CIVIL
quarters not above fix miles off. Our horfe performing WAR.
their journey before day-light, furprized and fet upon the Sends the
enemy unawares for the Numidians, being a barbarous horfe before,
people, obferved no manner of order; which gave our who have
men an opportunity of killing great numbers, whilft they good fuccefs.
were difperfed and afleep; others, being frightened, betook They return
themſelves to flight; and thus the cavalry returned to CURIO with fome
with ſeveral priſoners.
priſoners to
Curio.
over-eager-
39. CURIO, by break of day, with all his forces had
quitted his camp; leaving only five cohorts behind to guard
his baggage. He had not marched above fix miles before
he met the horſe, who gave him an account of the action;
whereupon he examined the captives to know who com-
manded their camp at Bagrada; to which they anſwered,
SABURA. Eager to purfue his journey, he stayed to afk Curio's
no more queſtions, but turning about to the troops next nefs.
him, faid, “Obſerve, gentlemen, this account of the pri- He exhorts
foners agrees exactly with what we received from the de-
ferters the king is abfent, and their forces muft of necef-, hafte.
fity be inconfiderable, which were not able to repulfe fo
ſmall a number of cavalry. Wherefore let us haſten to
obtain the ſpoil and glory, that I may the fooner reward,
and render you thanks for the fervices you have done."
CHA P. XVI.
:
40. TO give the cavalry their due, they had obtained a
confiderable booty, and done wonders, confidering how far
inferior they were to the Numidians in number. But how-
ever, they enlarged a little in their accounts of the action;
for men naturally reprefent themfelves to the beſt advan-
tage. The horſe made their appearance, and the priſoners
they had taken were produced to inflame the army, and
make them believe each moment they loft, retarded them
fo long from victory: thus the ardour of the foldiers be-
came equal to the hopes of their general. He commanded
the horſe to follow after, and marched before himſelf with
the infantry as faft as he could, that he might have an op-
portunity of falling upon the enemy, whilft they were fly-
ing, before they could recover their furprize: but the horſe
being fatigued by their laft night's expedition, were not able
to perform his orders, fome ftaying behind in one place,
others in another; yet even this could not diminiſh CURIO'S
expectations.
In
the foldiers
to make
哼
​268
Book II.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
WAR.
gage.
In the mean time JUBA, having notice from SABURA
of the laſt night's engagement, had immediately ſent two
thouſand Spaniſh and French cavalry, his own life-guard,
together with a felect battalion of foot to his affiitance:
fufpecting CURIO was not far behind his horfe, he himſelf
followed gently after with the reſt of his army, and fixty
elephants. SABURA having drawn up his forces, com-
manded them at firſt to retreat, as if they were afraid; for
he would give them the fign to engage when he ſhould
think convenient, and diftribute the neceffary orders. Cu-
RIO by this decoy being confirmed in his former hopes, and
believing the enemy fled, drew his army down into the plain
from the higher ground.
in or-
41. At length, having marched a confiderable way, and
weakened his foldiers with a journey of fixteen miles, he
Curio and made a halt. Upon which SABURA put his army
Sabura en- der, rode up and down to every company, and having en-
couraged them to fight, gave the fign of battle: but he only
fent the cavalry to charge our men, keeping his foot at a
diſtance for a fhew. CURIO wanted not preſence of mind,
he adviſed his men to repofe all the hopes of fafety in their
courage: Nor did the foot, though wearied with their
march, or the cavalry, though few in number and fatigued
with the duty they had now gone through, betray want of
courage, or inclination to engage. Of the latter were
only two hundred left, for the reſt had halted by the way;
yet wherever they charged, they obliged the enemy to give
way; but their horfes were fo tired they could not purſue
them far.
Cario fur-
rounded by
Sabura.
In the mean time SABURA's horfe began to furround
our army on both fides, and gall us in the rear: whenever
our cohorts iffued out to charge them, the Numidians, be-
ing freſh, avoided the attack by their nimbleness; but
when our men endeavoured to return again to the main
body, they were environed and intercepted: fo that we
could neither maintain our ranks, nor charge their forces
with fafety.
CHAP. XVII.
THEY received freſh fupplies perpetually from Juba,
whilſt our men began to faint with the fatigue they had ſuſ-
tained; and our whole army being befet by their horſe, even
they that were wounded could neither quit the field, nor re-
tire to a place for fecurity. Wherefore deſpairing of fafety,
aş men ufually do when they are dying, they bemoaned
4
their
Book II.
269
COMMENTARIES.
¡
I
their own fates, and wiſhed their friends better fortune, if CIVIL
it were poffible for any of them to eſcape the flaughter. In WAR.
fine, the whole army was funk with grief and fear.
42. CURIO perceiving the foldiers in fo great a con-
ſternation, that they gave ear neither to his commands nor
intreaties, as the laſt refuge gave orders they ſhould gain
the neighbouring hills: but they were already poffeffed by
SABURA's cavalry, which reduced our men to the laſt de-
gree of defpair; part endeavouring to eſcape, were killed
by the enemy's horfe; and others, to preſerve themſelves
from the like fate, fell proftrate on the earth. Whilſt af-
fairs were in this defperate condition, CN. DOMITIUS, Curio rotitə
commander of the horſe, having only a few of his followers ed.
left, adviſed CURIO to fave himſelf by retreating to the camp,
and promiſed not to forfake him. But CURIO, having loft
the army which CÆSAR Committed to his charge, refolved
never to behold his face again; wherefore fighting bravely,
he expired. Some few of the cavalry eſcaped the ſlaughter;
and they who ſtayed behind to refreſh themſelves, per- Part of the
ceiving at a diſtance that the army was routed, retreated in cavalry
fafety to the camp, but every man of the foot was cut to eſcape to the
pieces.
He dies
bravely.
camp.
ported to Si
43. M. RUFUS, the quæftor, whom CURIO had left behind
in the camp, exhorted the foldiers not to be dejected: they
begged to be tranſported to Sicily, and he promiſed they They defire
fhould. Whereupon he ordered the captains of the fhips to be tranf
to bring their boats to the fhore fo foon as evening ap-cily.
proached. But fo great confufion were they in, that fome Their idle
affirmed JUBA was almoft at the camp with his army; fears.
fome, that VARUS with his legions was coming that way,
and that they perceived the duft occafioned by his march;
but theſe reports were both of them falfe: others again
were apprehenfive that the enemy's fleet would immediately
be with them. Thus all being frightened, every man con-
ſulted his own preſervation; thoſe who had embarked were
for hoifting fail immediately; and their weighing anchor
made the tranſports in hafte to follow after. A few ſmall The tranf-
tenders obeyed RUFUS's orders, and ſtayed: but the ftrand ports go off,
was ſo crouded, and every one fo eager to get on board be- and leave
greatest part
fore the reſt, that fome of thefe veffels were funk, and of them be-
others were afraid to come nearer ſhore.
44. Thus it happened that a few foldiers and aged men,
who were received on board, either through intereſt or com-
paffion, together with fuch as were able to ſwim to the
tranfports, got fafe into Italy. But the reft having fent
their
hind.
t
270
Book II.
C. J. CÆSA R'S, &c.
CIVIL their centurions that night as deputies to VARUS, fur-
WAR. rendered.
They fur-
render to
Varus;
after quarter
The day after, JUBA, feeing theſe cohorts before Utica,
and claiming them as part of his booty, commanded ſeveral
to be killed, and fent others, whom he felected out of the
but are kil-number, into his own country. VARUS in vain inter-
led by Juba, ceded, affirming his honour was engaged for them; but
granted, durit not oppoſe the king's refolutions; who made his entry
Juba makes into the town on horſeback, attended by ſeveral Roman
fenators, among which number were SERVIUS SULPICIUS,
and LICINIUS DAMASIPPUS: having given fuch orders
Returns to for the government of the place as he thought convenient,
after a few days ftay, he returned to his own kingdom
with all his forces.
his entry in-
to Utica.
his own
kingdom.
C. J. CÆ-
"
C. J. CESAR'S
COMMENTARY
OF THE
CIVIL
WAR.
The THIRD BOOK,
CÆSAR and POMPEY, their preparations. CÆSAR
goes into Greece. The fiege of Salona. POMPEY
retires to Durazzo. BIBULUS dies. Propofitions
of peace rejected. Tumults at Rome compofed.
ANTONY and KALENUS join CÆSAR.
SCI-
PIO's tyranny in Afia. His arrival in Macedonia.
POMPEY besieged by CESAR at Durazzo quits
the fiege. Draws POMPEY into Theffaly. Enga-
ges and defeats him. LELIUS befieges Brundu-
fium. CASSIUS burns CÆSAR's fhips in Sicily.
POMPEY killed in Egypt by ACHILLAS and
SEPTIMIUS. CESAR goes to Alexandria, where
be is engaged in another war.
T
it was
CHAP I.
HE dictator, CESAR, prefiding at the affem- CIVIL
bly for election of magiftrates, himſelf and P.
SERVILIVS were chofen confuls; for this year
WAR.
lawful for him to be admitted to that office. Cæfar and
Servilius
chofen con-
This being over, CÆSAR perceiving commerce was
at a ftop in Italy, becaufe no body paid their debts, fuls.
An. U, C,
a Viz. According to SYLLA's law, whereby it was enacted, No perfon 705.
Should enjoy the confulate a ſecond time, till ten years after his first election,
decreed
242
1
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book III.
CIVIL decreed that arbitrators fhould be appointed for fetting fuch
WAR. an eſtimate on the eftate and goods of debtors, as they were
really worth before the war began; and delivering them at
Makes a law that value to the creditors. This he thought the propereft
for payment
of debts, re-method for preferving the reputation of the debtor, and
fores ap- taking away all apprchenfion of a law for pardoning debts,
peals to the
people. as ufually happens in civil wars. He reſtored to the præ-
given in
⚫ time.
Reverfes tors and tribunes their ancient right of appealing to the
judgments people. He likewife reverſed fome judgments given againſt
Pompey's perfons accuſed of bribery in elections, by virtue of the Pom-
peian law, whilſt POMPEY kept his legions in the city; be-
cauſe the merits had often been heard by one judge, and
ſentence pronounced the fame day by another, who knew
Gets thofe nothing of the cauſe. And thinking himſelf as much
cleared by obliged to thoſe who had proffered their fervice to him at the
the people beginning of the war, as if he had accepted of their friend-
condemned fhip, he refolved to free them from the fentence they lay
for proffering under upon his account: but thought it more convenient to
to him. have them acquitted by the votes of the people, that he
might neither feem ungrateful, nor appear to affume too
great authority.
who were
their fervice
He lays
Thip; goes
CHA P. II
b
2. THESE affairs, together with the Latin feftivals,
down his and the reft of the elections, took him up eleven days; af
Dictator-
ter which, having laid down his dictatorship, and left the
to Brindifi. city, he went to Brindifi; where he had appointed twelve
legions, with all the cavalry, to meet him. But he found
fo few tranſports in the haven, they were hardly fufficient for
carrying over twenty thousand legionary foldiers, and fix
hundred horfe: which was the only thing CESAR had need
of, to enable him to put a speedy end to the war. Befides,
thoſe troops which went on board wanted recruits; for the
wars of Gaul, and long marches from Spain, had killed
many; and an unhealthful autumn about Brindifi and Apu-
Jia, with the change of ſo wholeſome an air as that of Gaul
or Spain, had made the whole army out of order.
Pompey's
3. POMPEY had now had a twelve-month's time, free
preparations, from all interruption, to raife an army in; which he em-
ployed to the beſt advantage: for he got a conſiderable fleet
his forces.
b Feafts inftituted by Tarquinius Superbus to Jupiter Latiaris on his conqueft
of Hetruria. They were kept on mount Alba, to which forty cities of La-
tium, Hetruria, the Volfci, and Herhici, fent their deputies, with fume contri-
bution towards the facrifices,
together,
Book III.
273
COMMENTARIES.
together, from Afia, the Cyclades, Corfu, Athens, Pontus, CIVIL
Bithynia, Syria, Cilicia, Phoenicia, Egypt; and had given WAR.
orders for building feveral fhips in other places. He had
raiſed a great deal of money in Afia and Syria, befides what
he received from all the Kings, Dynafts, Tetrarchs, and
Hans-towns of Achaia; he likewife extorted great fums from
the corporations or focieties of the provinces under his com-
mand.
forces.
4. He had levied nine legions of Roman citizens; five His land-
he brought along with him from Italy; one veteran legion
came from Sicily, called the Gemella, becaufe it confifted.
of two others; another from Candia and Macedonia, of
old foldiers, which had formerly been disbanded there by
other generals; and two more from Afia, which had been
raiſed by LENTULUS's care. Befides thefe, he had con-
fiderable numbers from Theffaly, Boeotia, Achaia, and
Epirus; which he diftributed amongſt his legions by the
way of recruits, together with ANTONY's foldiers.
b
brother.who
was of Ce
Over and above all thefe, he expected two legions under
SCIPIO's command from Syria, with archers from thence,
Candia, Lacedæmon, Pontus, and other countries, to the
number of three thoufand; with fix thoufand flingers, two
thouſand hired foldiers, and feven thouſand horfe. Six
hundred of the latter came along with DEIOTARUS from
Gaul; five hundred with ARIOBARZANES from Cappa-
docia; the like number from Thrace, fent by coтUS, un-
der the command of his fon SADALIS; two hundred from
Macedonia, led by the famous RASCIPOLIS; fix hundred Rafeus's
Gauls and Germans from Alexandia, whom A. GABINIUS
had formerly preſented PTOLEMY with for a guard; POM- far's fide.
PEY's fon brought eight hundred in his fleet, whom he had
levied amongſt his flaves and fhepherds; TARCUNDARIUS
CASTOR and DOMILAUS furniſhed three hundred Gala-
tians; the firſt of theſe came himſelf in perfon, the latter
fent his fon; two hundred, most of them archers, were
fent from Syria, by COMAGENUS of Antioch, who had
been infinitely obliged to POMPEY. To thefe were added
the Dardani, with more from Macedon, Theffaly, and other
countries, part volunteers, and part mercenary troops, which
completed the number of cavalry above-mentioned.
5. He had provided great quantities of corn from Theffaly,
Afia, Candia, Cyrene, and other countries: he refolved to
quarter his army that winter at Durazzo, Apollonia, and
b Surrendered up to him at Corfu, by the treachery of T. Pulcio, but the
narration of which is omitted in the Commentary, but hinted at § 10.
T
the
274
C. J. CÆSAR'S
His fleet.
Book III.
CIVILthe other maritime towns, to prevent CÆSAR's paffing the
WAR. fea; for which purpoſe he took care his fleet ſhould cruize
perpetually about the coafts. POMPEY, the fon, was ad-
miral of the Egyptian fquadron; D. LELIUS and C. TRI-
ARIUS of the Afian; C. CASSIUS of the Syrian; C. MAR-
CELLUS and C. COPONIUS of the Rhodian; SCRIBONIUS
LIBO and M. OCTAVIUS of the Liburnian and Achaian
Bibulus High fleets: but M. BIBULUS was high admiral, whofe orders the
reft were to obſerve upon all occafions.
Admiral.
to leave their
CHA P. III.
Cæfar defires 6. CÆSAR, upon his arrival at Brindifi, called the
the legions foldiers together; and defired, fince their labours and
dangers were now almoſt at an end, they would be con-
baggage be-
hind.
tent to leave their baggage behind them in Italy, that the
greater number might embark, and expect all things from
conqueft and his liberality: they unanimoufly exclaimed,
Let him command whatever he pleaſed, they were ready to
He embarks obey his orders. Wherefore (as we have already re-
for Greece. marked) having put feven legions on board, the fifteenth of
October he weighed anchor, and arrived the day after at
the promontory of Ceraunium; where he obtained a quiet
harbour amongit the rocks and unfrequented places: ap-
prehending all the ports were prepoffeffed by the enemy,
He lands at he fell down to a place called Pharfalus, where he landed
every man of his army in fafety.
Pharfalus.
7. LUCRETIUS VESPILLO and MINUTIUS RUFUS,
This word vice-admirals to D. LELIUS, were both at Oricum, with
all mankind eighteen of the Aſian ſhips; and M. BIBULUS with an hun-
agree to be
dred and ten at Corfu. But the former had not the
corrupted,
yet no body courage to attack CÆSAR, though he had only twelve gal-
knows how lies for a convoy; one whereof he was on board himſelf:
to mend it. nor could BIBULUS get out foon enough, his fleet being
Kalenus
fent back
with the
out of order, and his failors difperfed: in fhort, CÆSAR
was landed before the news of his approach was heard of on
the continent.
8. Having fet his foldiers on fhore, he fent the fleet
fleet to fetch back the fame night to Brindifi, to fetch the other legions
the rest.
c Once joint conful with Cæfar.
This has reference to the twenty thousand men ſpoken of before: for ha
faid the legions were not compleat.
< Pridie non. Jan. The Roman calendar was now grown fo confuſed,
that the calends of January fell on October 11, of our Julian year, confequently
Idie nonas Jan, on Oct. 15. U. C. Var. 705. See more Afric, war, 1. 2. and
Wher's Aunals, Per. Jul. 4665. Typogr.
and
Book III.
275
COMMENTARIES.
Bibulus
His malice,
His dili
and cavalry. The care of this bufinefs was committed to C 1 v IL
lieutenant FUSIUS KALENUS, who had orders to make what WAR.
diſpatch he could. But the fleet weighing anchor too late,
and lofing the advantage of the wind, which offered fair that catches thir
night, miſcarried in their return. For BIBULUS, who lay ty as they
at Corfu, being affured by this time of CAESAR's arrival, was return.
in hopes of intercepting fome part of our fleet: he took
about thirty; but finding them empty of foldiers, he fet gence.
them on fire, together with the mafters and mariners, to
fatisfy his fpleen for having flipped fo happy an opportunity,
and to deter others from tranfporting any more of CÆSAR'S
forces. After this, he difpofed his men of war all along
the coafts between Salona and Oricum, to guard the fhore
with more diligence for the future: he himſelf continued
on board in the coldeft weather, not declining any fatigue,
fof he might but intercept the fupplies CESAR expected.
lona.
9. After the Liburnian gallies were gone, M. OCTAVIUS, Octavius be-
with the rest of the fquadron under his command, which feges Sa-
came from Illyria, failed to Salone; where having raifed
the Dalmatians, and other barbarous people, he drew ISSA
to revolt from CÆSAR. But finding he could not prevail
with the inhabitants of Salonæ to do the like, he refolved to
inveft the town. Salon is fituate on a hill, and well forti-
fied by nature; but the Roman citizens refiding there, to
make the place better able to hold out, immediately fur-
rounded it with feveral wooden towers. After they had re- The valour
ceived many wounds, finding their number not fufficient to of the be-.
fieged.
maintain the town, as their laſt refuge, they infranchiſed all
their flaves that were of age to bear arms, and cut off their
women's hair to make cords for the engines. OCTAVIUS,
finding them ſo obftinate, fat down before the town with five
different camps; defigning at the fame time to diftrefs them
by blockade and form. The Salonians were refolved to
endure the laſt extremities, and wanted nothing but corn;
wherefore they fent to CÆSAR for fupplies; all other incon-
veniencies they patiently endured. They had now been in- The befieg'a
veſted a conſiderable time, and the enemy was grown re- make a vigo-
rous fally,
mifs; when taking the opportunity, about noon they dif-
poſed their wives and children upon the walls to fupply their Octavius.
places; and making a vigorous fally with their enfranchiſed
f The editions read, Neque fubfidium: expectans, fi in Cæfaris compléxum
nire poffet. But muft of neceffity be corrupt; therefore CIACCONIUS and
URSINGS have mended it thus; Ne quod fubfidium expectabat Cæfar, in con-
fpectum venire poft. BLADEN. Dr. Jurin, with lefs alteration, neque jub-
fidium expectans, fi Cæfaris commeatus impedin pofit. Typogr.
T 2
flaves,
and rout
276
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL flaves, forced the enemy's next quarters, then attempted
WAR. the next, after that the third, and fo the reft with equal
fuccefs; and having killed great numbers of OCTAVIUS'S
men, they obliged him to fly to his fhips. Thus ended
the fiege, and winter drawing on, OCTAVIUS deſpairing of
fuccefs, after having received a confiderable lofs, retreated
to POMPEY at Durazzo.
J
CHA P. IV.
g
10. WE have already taken notice, that VIBULLIUS
RUFUS, one of POMPEY's officers, had twice been taken
by CÆSAR, and as often difmiffed, once at Corfinium,
and another time in Spain. CASAR therefore thought
him a proper perſon to carry fome propoſals to POMPEY,
as well in regard of the favours himſelf had conferred upon
him, as of the intereſt he had in that general. The mcf-
Cæfar fends fage was to this effect: " It was time for them both to lay
propoſals to afide their obftinacy, quit their arms, and tempt fortune no
Pompey by longer; fince both of them had been fufferers. POMPEY
Vibullius
Rufus,
had been expelled out of Italy, Sicily, Sardinia, and both
the provinces of Spain, in which countries he had loft near
a hundred and thirty cohorts of Roman citizens: and cÆ-
SAR had reaſon to bemoan the fate of CURIO and his army
in Africk, with the furrender of his forces at Corfu.
Wherefore they would both do wifely, to confult their own
intereft, and that of the commonwealth; they had expe-
rienced the power of chance in war, and ought to improve
by their own misfortunes; this was the only time for treat-
ing, whilft the balance of fuccefs was equal; for fhould
fortune incline the leaft to either fide, he who feemed fu-
perior would not be contented with half, fo long as there
was a profpect of obtaining all. That fince the conditions.
could not fooner be agreed on, they fhould be referred to
the fenate and people of Rome. In the mean it would be
but juſt to the commonwealth and themſelves, that both
fhould publickly fwear to difmifs their armies in three days
time; for when their own forces were disbanded, and the
auxiliaries they depended on, they muft of neceffity fub-
mit to the judgment of the fenate and people. And to
fhew how ready he was to perform thefe propofals, for his
part, he would immediately difcharge all his troops in gar-
rifon, and in the field."
There is no mention made of his being taken in Spain, therefore feme-
thing muſt be wanting.
4
II. VI-
Book III.
277
COMMENTARIES.
far's ap-
11. VIBULLIUS having received theſe commands from CIVIL
CAESAR, thought it more neceffary to give POMPEY fpeedy WAR.
notice of his approach, that he might be provided to re- Vibullius's
ceive him, than to perform his commiffion: wherefore he hafte to ac-
poſted day and night towards POMPEY, frequently taking quaint Pom-
freſh horfes for the greater expedition, to acquaint him pey of Ca-
that CÆSAR was coming that way with all his forces. proach.
POMPEY had been in Candavia, from whence he was
marching through Macedonia towards his winter-quarter in
Apollonia and Durazzo: and being concerned at the re-
ceipt of this unexpected news, he haſtened his journey to-
wards Apollonia, to prevent CÆSAR's making himſelf ma-
fter of the fa-coafts.
TOR-
Oricum,
*
But CESAR having landed his forces, marched the fame Cæfar takes
day towards Oricum; when he came thither, L.
QUATUS, whom POMPEY had made governor of the town,
with a* Parthenian garrifon, defigning to fhut the gates, A people
and defend the place, commanded the foldiers to repair to of Illyria.
their arms, and man the walls: but they refufing to fight
againſt the people of Rome, and the citizens, of their own
accord refolved to admit CESAR into the town. Where-
fore TORQUATUS, defpairing of relief, opened the gates,
furrendered both himſelf and the place at difcretion; and
CÆSAR took care no injury fhould be done him.
12. Having taken in Oricum, he immediately marched
And Apol-
to Apollonia. On notice of his arrival, L. STABERIUS, lonia.
governor of the place, ordered the caftle to be fortified,
water to be carried into it, and demanded hostages from
the townſmen who were fo far from complying, that they
declared "They would not fhut their gates against the
conful, nor take refolutions contrary to thoſe of all Italy,
and the people of Rome." Upon this reply, the governor
thought it high time to prepare for his fecurity by flight:
when he was gone, the inhabitants fent deputies to CÆSAR,
and received him into the town. The Bullidenfes, Aman-
tiani, with the reft of the neighbouring countries, and all
Epirus, followed their example, fending embaffadors to let
CÆSAR know, they were ready to receive his commands.
Durazzo,
13. POMPEY, in the mean time, having notice of what Pompey
paffed at Oricum and Apollonia, and being in pain for marches to
Durazzo, marched thither as fast as poffible: it was re-
ported likewife that CASAR was not far off. Which
meeting with more credit, becauſe POMPEY had ordered
them to march day and night, put his whole army into fo
great a confternation, that feveral of his troops left their
enfigns
T 3
1
278
C. J. CÆSAR'S
The diforder
of his army.
Labienus
Book III.
CIVIL enfigns behind them in Epirus, and the bordering ftates,
WAR. whilft others threw away their arms, and all went forward
with fo much precipitation, as if they fled rather than
marched. Nay, even when they were arrived near Du-
razzo, and their general gave orders for laying out the
firſt takes an camp, they had not recovered their diſorder: which LA-
BIENUS perceiving, ftepp'd forth, and obliged himſelf,
by oath, never to defert POMPEY, but to ſhare whatever
All the reft fortune fhould befal him; the other lieutenants followed
his example; the tribunes and centurions did the like, as
well as the reſt of the army.
oath never
to defert
him.
do the like.
Cæfar en-
CASAR finding POMPEY had reached Durazzo before
camps at the him, began to march more leifurely; and having encamped
river Apfus. at the river Apfus (that he might the more eafily cover the
countries he had been ſo much obliged to) there refolved to
quarter that winter, and expect the arrival of his other
legions from Italy. POMPEY did the like, and having
pitched his tents on the other fide the river, there affem-
bled all his troops and auxiliaries.
Pompey
does the
like,
Kalenus
chor, but on
advice of the
guarded,
puts in a-
gain.
One veffel
taken; all
14. KALENUS, in the mean while, according to cœ-
weighs an- SAR's orders, having embarked as many of the legions and
cavalry at Brindifi, as his tranfports would hold, had
coafts being weigh'd anchor; but failed not far, before he received
letters from CÆSAR, informing him that all the Grecian
coafts were guarded by the enemy's fleet: whereupon he
recalled his fhips, and returned again into the haven. But
one private veffel, which carried no foldiers, and was not
fubject to KALENUS's command, purſuing her voyage to
Oricum, was taken there by BIBULUS; who granted
quarter to none that were on board, putting even fervants
and children to death. So narrow an eſcape had the
whole army.
on board
killed by Bi-
bulus,
Bibulus ma-
fter of the
fea, and Cæ
CHAP.
V.
15. BIBULUS, as we have already obferved, lay with
his fleet at Oricum, and as he deprived CÆSAR of all in-
far of the tercourfe by fea, fo CASAR having difpofed parties along
Loafts,
the fhore, prevented him from landing: fo that he could
neither get wood, freſh water, nor anchor near the coaft
Bibulus's upon any occafion. This put their fleet to many incon-
feet reduced veniencies, and reduced them to the laft extremity for
to great ex- want of neceffaries; for they were obliged to fend for all
remities.
manner of provifions, even wood and water, as far as Cor-
fu. Nay, once they were forced to relieve their thirft by
the
Book III.
279
COMMENTARIES.
*
1
the dew which fell upon the hides that covered the decks, CvIL
a thing never practifed but in cafes of the utmoſt neceffity: WAR.
yet they patiently endured all theſe difficulties rather than
leave the coafts open, and ports unguarded.
defire a con-
Whilft they laboured under thefe ftraights, LIBO having Libo and he
joined BIBULUS, they called from on board to M. ACILIUS ference with
and STATIUS MURCUS, two of CASAR's lieutenants, Cæfar.
who guarded the walls of Oricum and the fea-coafts, ac-
quainting them, they had fomething extraordinary to offer
to CÆSAR, if they might have an opportunity of fpeaking
with him; giving intimations, that they defigned to treat
concerning a peace. In the mean time, they earnestly de-
fired a truce; which was granted them, fince their buſineſs
had the appearance of fo great confequence, and was fuch
as MURCUS and ACILIUS knew would be extreamly grate-
ful to CÆSAR, the effect, as they believed, of VIBULLIUS'S
negotiation.
Afham trea-
ty to gain a
16. CASAR was then at Buthrotum, directly over- In the ori
againſt Corfu, whither he had marched with one legion, to ginal it is
Bibulus, but
take in the farther countries, and ſupply himſelf with corn; the error is
which began to grow fcarce. Here, having received an manifeft.
account of the demands of LIBO and BIBULUS, he left
the legion, and returned to Oricum. When he arrived
there, and the time appointed for the conference was come,
LIBO only came to the interview, making an apology for
BIBULUS's abfence, as well on account of his cholerick
temper, as of the private pique between him and CÆSAR, truce.
ever fince his difcharging the offices of ædile and prætor;
wherefore he avoided the conference, left the hopeful pro-
greſs of ſo important an affair might be interupted by his
prefence. Then declared how defirous POMPEY had al-
ways been of a treaty and ceflation of arms: but as he had
not given him a commiffion to act in his name, he could
not conclude any thing without him; fince the council
had conferred the fole management of the war upon POM-
PEY. But if CESAR would acquaint him with his de-
mands, he would take care to tranſmit them to POMPEY,
who, he doubted not in the leaft, would comply upon
BIBULUS's and his perfuafions. Wherefore he defired a Libo's de-
truce, till fuch time as he could receive an anſwer. After mands.
this, he added fomething about the juftice of their cauſe
the ftrength of their forces and auxiliaries.
17. To which CÆSAR did not then think proper to
h Vossius fays, CÆSAR Calls POMPEY's party the Council, inflead of the
Senate, by way of derifion.
T 4
make
280
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL make any reply, nor is it worth his time now to trouble
WAR. the reader with one.
Cæfer's
anfwer.
"But he defired they would either grant his deputies a
paffport to POMPEY, or undertake they ſhould be conduct-
ed to him in fafety. As to the truce infifted on, he told
them, the preſent ftate of the war was ſuch, that on one
hand they commanded the fea, and prevented his receiving
any fupplies that way; on the other, he being mafter of
the coafts, prohibited them the uſe of land and freſh water:
wherefore it was but reaſonable, if they expected he ſhould
give them the liberty of landing, that they in return ſhould
leave the feas open to him: nor would he part with his
advantage upon any other terms. However, though they
could not agree on that point, the treaty might ftill pro-
ceed."
But they would neither grant his lieutenants a paffport,
nor oblige themſelves to conduct them in fafety; referring
the whole matter to POMPEY: yet infifted much upon the
truce. CAESAR perceiving that this parley was only made
ceives their uſe of as an artifice, to deliver them out of the preſent
defign, and danger and difficulties they laboured under, and that no
difappoints terms of peace were offered, began to think of profecuting
Cæfar per-
them.
the war.
:
CHA
CH A P. VI.
Bibulus dies. 18. BIBULUS, by being long out at fea, had con-
tracted a dangerous ficknefs, from cold and conftant fa-
tigue and as he could not be cured on board, and he refolved
not to relinquifh his charge, the violence of the diftemper
carried him off. After his deceaſe, no one had the fole
command of the fleet, but every admiral acted feparately
with his own fquadron. The furprize being now over,
which CAESAR's fudden arrival had occafioned, VIBULLIUS
took the first opportunity, when LIBO, LUCCEIUS, and
Vibullius's THEOPHANES, POMPEY's greateft confidents, were pre-
negotiation fent, to deliver the commiffion he had received from CAE-
ineffectual. SAR: but POMPEY foon interrupted his difcourfe, faying,
"What fatisfaction can I have, either in life, or in the
enjoyment of Rome, when the world fhall believe I have
been beholden to CAESAR's mercy for both? which notion
can never be blotted out, till I fhall go back a conqueror
into Italy, from whence I was expelled." CAESAR had
notice of this from fome that were prefent at the debate;
which yet did not make him defift from endeavouring to
obtain a parley by feveral other methods.
Pompey's
anfwer.
Nothing
Book III.
281
COMMENTARIES.
Vatinius
19. Nothing parted the two camps but the river Apfus, CIVIL
the foldiers frequently difcourfed with each other, and by WAR.
compact amongst themſelves, caft no darts on either fide
during the conference. Wherefore CASAR fent lieutenant (ent to de-
P. VATINIUS to the banks of the river, with orders to mand a con-
omit nothing which he thought might conduce towards an ference;
accommodation; and to demand with a loud voice,
"Whether it was not lawful for Romans to fend deputies
to treat of peace with their fellow-citizens? a privilege
which had never been denied even to out-laws and high-
way-men on the Pyrenæan mountains, and was much leſs
to be oppoſed, when the deſign of the conference was to
prevent the effuſion of Roman blood by Romans.”
VA-
TINIUS having ſpoken a great deal to the fame purpoſe in
a very fubmiffive fpeech, as became him when he treated
about ſo great a concern as his own and the publick ſafety;
a profound filence enfued on both fides, and he received
this anſwer that VARRO would appear the next day at
the conference; where deputies might attend with fafety agreed to;
on both fides, and make their demands. A certain time
was appointed for the meeting; which being come, mul-
titudes crouded to the place, and all men feemed diſpoſed
to a peace. TITUS LABIENUS, advancing before the
reft, began a gentle and amicable conference with VA-
TINIUS; but in the midft of it was interrupted by the
But perfidi-
darts that came flying from every fide; which danger VA oully inter-
TINIUS eſcaped, being covered by the fhields of the fol- rupted.
diers: but many were wounded, as CORNELIUS BALIUS,
M. PLOTIUS, and L. TIBURTIUS, the centurions, with
fome private foldiers. Then exclaimed LABIENUS,
"Let Labienus's
us talk no longer of treaties; for till CÆSAR's head be cut malice.
off, we can never think of peace.
>>
CHAP. VII.
which is
fions an in-
20. IN the mean time at Rome, M. CAELIUS RUFUS, M. Celius
the prætor for foreigners, having undertaken the caufe of Rufus occa
the debtors, on his entrance into his office, caufed his tri- furrection.
bunal to be fixed near that of the city prætor, C. TREBO-
NIUS; and promifed, if any perfon should appeal from the
eftimation and orders of the arbitrators for payment of
debts, whom CAESAR had appointed, he would relieve
them. But TREBONIUS pronounced his judgments with fo
much equity and compaffion, which was very neceffary in
thoſe tickliſh times, that no body thought of appealing.
For
282
Book III.
C. J. CESAR'S
CIVIL For to have pleaded poverty, misfortunes, the hardneſs of
WAR. the times, or the difficulty of putting their effects to auc-
tion, would have been an argument of meanness of fpirit:
but to have owned themſelves indebted, and yet have de-
fired to keep their poffeffions intire, would have been un-
reaſonable to the laft degree: therefore no body made any
demands of this nature.
Cælius's fe-
But CÆLIUS was very hard upon thoſe for whofe bene-
dition; the fit this law was intended: agreeably to his firſt fetting out,
mob rifes. and that he might not defert the cauſe he was engaged in,
Cælius ex-
pell'd
Rome; he
joins with
Milo.
he made a law, whereby it was enacted, That debtors
fhould compound for half they owed, without intereft, and
make their payments at three different times.
21. But the conful SERVILIUS, and the rest of the ma-
giftrates oppofing this edict, he found it had not the effect
upon the people he defigned: therefore annulling that law,
he publiſhed two others; one for difcharging all tenants.
from paying their rents, the other for cancelling debts.
Thefe had the defired effect, they raiſed the mob, who
affaulted c. TREBONIUS, and having wounded ſome that
were about him, pulled him out of his tribunal. The con-
ful SERVILIUS laid this before the fenate, who thereupon
refolved CELIUS fhould be removed from his office; by
virtue of which decree, the conful expelled him the houſe,
and cauſed him to be taken from the roftrum, as he was
going to harangue the people.
Afflicted with this difgrace, CALIUS pretended he would
go to CESAR; but instead of that, privately fent meffen-
gers to invite MILO into Italy; who ſtood condemned for
the murder of CLODIUS, and had gained the remainder of
the gladiators, by confiderable prefents, for his guard.
On his arrival he joined him; and having fent him to Tu-
rene, to follicit the fhepherds to take arms, went himſelf
tok Caffiline. On his arrival there, he had notice, that his
arms were feized at Capua, his partifans at Naples, and
But
i The text is Sexies feni dies fine ufuris creditæ pecuniæ, folvantur ; which is a
manifeft corruption. CUJACIUs therefore has made it Sexagics fenis dicbus ;
MANUTIUS, Sexenni die; others, Sexpenfionibus, whom M. D'ABLANCOURT
agrees with; but I rather chufe to follow vossius, who corrects it, Sex men-
fium die, i. e. fhould pay what they owed in fix months. BLADEN.
how then was RUFUS hard on the creditors, for whofe benefit CÆSAR's law
was made? One MS. reads ut fe exiffini dies, whence J. F. GRONOVIUS reads,
ut femiffe in dies fine, &c. De Pec. Vet. l. iv. c. v. in dies he interprets the
ftated times of payment, which generally uſed to be divided into three parts,
one to be paid each year. Typogr.
k Famous for being being befieged by HANNIBAL, long ago reduced to
afhes; but the prefent Capua now ftands in the fame place where this town
was formerly fituate.
their
Book III.
283
COMMENTARIES.
$
their deſign of betraying the town diſcovered; wherefore C 1 v 1 L
finding himſelf ſhut out of Capua, his counfels exploded, WAR.
and apprehending fome danger, becauſe the Roman citi-
•
zens had already taken arms, and looked upon him as an
enemy; he changed his refolution, and deſiſted from the
journey.
22. MILO, in the mean while, having fent his circular
letters to the municipal towns, pretended he had a com-
miffion from POMPEY for what he did, and received his
inftructions from BIBULUS. He endeavoured to draw the
debtors over to his party; but finding he could not prevail,
enfranchiſed ſome ſlaves, and with them went to beſiege
Cofa in Turene. The town was commanded by the præ-
tor Q. PEDIUS with a garriſon of one legion; and here
MILO died by a wound he received from a ftone thrown
by an engine from the walls. CALIUS, having given out
that he was gone to CESAR, came to Thurium, where,
endeavouring to corrupt the inhabitants and the Spaniſh and
Gallick horie, whom CESAR had left there in garrifon,
they killed him; which put a ſpeedy end to thoſe dangerous
beginnings, that found the magiftrates fo much work, and Cælius kil-
alarmed all Italy.
CHAP. VIII.
Milo killed.
ied.
23. LIBO, leaving Oricum, with a fquadron of fifty Libo bloc-
fhips under his command, failed to Brindifi, and poffeffed kades Brin-
himſelf of an iſland directly over-againſt the mouth of the difi.
haven. This he eſteemed a very important poft, becauſe
our fleet muſt of neceffity paſs that way; and therefore by
guarding that fingle place, he did as much in effect as if he
had actually blocked up all the ports and fhores on the
other fide. His arrival being unexpected, he furprized a
few tranſports, which he burnt, carried off one veffel that
was loaden with corn, put our men into great diſorder ;
and having landed fome foot with a party of archers, in
the night, defeated our guard of cavalry. Fluſhed with
this fuccefs, he writ POMPEY word, he might draw the His fuccefs
reft of the navy on fhore, and careen them if he pleafed ; and vanity.
for he alone was able, with his fquadron, to intercept CA-
SAR's fupplies.
24. ANTONY happened to be then at Brindifi, who Antony's
confiding in the courage of his foldiers, prepared about fixty attempt and
pinaces and long-boats, which he armed with penthouſes
and breaft-works of hurdles; and having put a felect num-
ber
fuccefs.
284
Book III.
C. J. CESAR'S
•
CIVIL ber of foldiers on board, difpofed them in feveral places
WAR. along the fhore. He had taken care to equip two gallies
at Brindifi with three banks of oars, and theſe he com-
manded to row to the mouth of the haven, by way of ex-
erciſe. LIBO, perceiving they ventured boldly, hoped to
to intercept them, and therefore detached five four-bank'd
gallies to attack them. But fo foon as they approached us,
the veteran foldiers that were on board, retired within the.
haven: the enemy, eager of the purfuit, followed too rafh-
ly; for immediately, upon a fign given, all ANTONY'S
boats made up to their gallies, and having taken one, with
one of Li- the failors and foldiers on board, obliged the reft to make
bo's gullies,
and obliges an ignominious retreat: to add to this lofs, ANTONY,
him to quit having difpofed parties of cavalry along the banks, pre-
vented LIBO from getting freſh water; which forced him
to quit the blockade of Brindifi with difgrace.
He takes
the bloc-
kade.
want of the
25. Several months had now paffed, and the winter was
almoſt ſpent, yet neither the legions nor navy were come
Cæfar's un-from Brindifi. CESAR believed his lieutenants had let
eafineis for fome opportunities flip; for during all that time the wind
reft of his had certainly offered fair, to whofe mercy they muſt be
legions. obliged to truft at laft. The longer they omitted coming,
the more careful were POMPEY's admirals to guard the
coaft, and the greater hopes they had of intercepting them.
POMPEY likewife, to increaſe their diligence, writ fre-
quently to reprimand them for letting the former troops
paſs by, and to remind them of being more careful of ſeiz-
ing the remainder, eſpecially fince the feafon growing
milder, would give them a better opportunity of looking
out, and the enemy lefs of efcaping.
to fet fail the
CHA P. IX.
Sends pofi- CESAR therefore, being very uneafy, writ fharply
tive orders to his officers, commanding them to weigh anchor the firſt
for the fleet fair wind, if they could but reach the coaſts of Apollonia,
and run the fhips on fhore there at any rate, fince thoſe
places were lefs guarded by the enemy's fleet, who durft
not venture too far from the havens.
firft fair
wind.
Ú. C. Var.
706.
26. The foldiers, who were eager for the voyage, and
Antony and ready to undertake any danger for CESAR's fake, affuming
Kalenus their wonted courage, under the conduct of ANTONY and
chor, and KALENUS, weighed anchor with a fouthern wind, and
arrive fafe atthe day after paffed by Apollonia and Durazzo, where Q.
Durazzo. COPONIUS, admiral of the Rhodian fquadron, lay; who,
weigh an-
fo
Book III.
285
COMMENTARIES.
fo foon as they were defcried from the continent, put out CIVIL
to ſea; and the wind growing flack, had almoſt overtaken WAR.
our fleet, when a freſh gale delivered them out of danger.
COPONIUS however did not defift from the purfuit, but Coponius
purfues
hoping to overcome the winds by the induſtry of his row-them cloſe;
ers, followed after, though we had already paſſed Du-
razzo. Our men, who were apprehenſive of falling into
the enemy's hands if the wind grew gentle again, laying
hold of the favourable opportunity, put into Nymphæum, but they get
about three miles beyond Liflus: which is a dangerous ha- fafe into
Nymphæ
ven when the wind blows fouth, but fafe enough during a
fouth-weft: however, they thought they had lefs to appre-
hend from the fury of the tempeft, than that of cOPONIUS.
But the moment they were got into the port, by incredi-
ble good fortune, the fouth-wind, which had continued
two days without intermiffion, veered about to fouth-weſt.
27. This was a very remarkable turn, for we, who but
a moment before had reaſon to dread a tempeftuous road,
by this accident were fheltered from all danger; and they,
who juſt before threatened deftruction to our fleet, were
now obliged to prepare for their own fecurity. For the fame
wind which protected us, ſo ſcattered the Rhodian ſqua-
dron, that out of fixteen not one efcaped fhipwreck.
um.
far's fleet,
28. Two of our tranfports that were but flow failors,
and could not keep up with the reft, not knowing where Two of Ce-
they had put in, caft anchor over-againft Liffus. Where- that lay be-
upon OTACILIUS CRASSUS, governor of the place, fent out hind, at-
ſeveral boats and ſmall veffels to feize them, promifing tacked.
quarter if they would furrender. One of thefe veffels car-
ried two hundred and twenty new levies; the others ſome-
thing less than two hundred veteran foldiers. In theſe dif-
ferent troops we may fee the fafety and advantage of habi-
tual courage. The new levies, frighted at the number of
the enemy's boats, and fick with their voyage, on affu- One furren-
rance of their lives upon oath, furrendered to OTACILIUS,
and were afterwards, contrary to faith and agreement, ter, and the
every man of them put to the ſword. But the old legio- foldiers in
nary foldiers, though difordered by the ftorm and noifome her put to
ftink of the pump, ftill retained their priftine virtue, pro-
tracted fome part of the night under pretence of a treaty
and furrender; then obliged the pilot to run the veffel on
ſhore, and having got a convenient place to land on, ftaid
there the remainder of the night. OTACILIUS, by break
of day, detached about four hundred horfe to purſue them,
with ſome part of the garrifon, which were ftationed to
defend
ders on pro
mife of quar-
death.
The other
eſcapes by
the courage
of the vete-
ran foldiers.
286
Book III.
C. J. CESAR'S
CIVIL defend that part of the coafts. But the Veterans made a
WAR. brave defence, and having killed fome of the enemy's men,
fecured their retreat to the reft of our forces.
~
Liffus fur-
Antony.
29. Upon this fuccefs, the Roman citizens refiding at
renders to Liffus, to whofe charge CESAR had formerly committed
the defence of the town, which he had taken care to for-
tify, opened their gates to ANTONY, and furniſhed him
with all kind of provifions: whereupon OTACILIUS left the
place, and fled to POMPEY. ANTONY having landed all
his forces, which confifted of three veteran legions, one
new, beſides eight hundred horſe, ſent moſt of the tranf-
ports back again to Italy, to fetch the reft of the foot and
cavalry. But he left the Pontones, a kind of French vef-
fels, at Liffus, that if POMPEY, through an imagination.
that Italy was left unguarded, as most people believed,
fhould tranfport his army thither, CESAR might not be
deprived of the means of following him; ANTONY withal
immediately acquainted him where he had landed, and
how many men he had brought over.
have notice
arrival.
Cæfar
marches to
join him.
}
CHA P. X.
Pompey and 30. CÆSAR and POMPEY had both advice of AN-
Cæfar both TONY's arrival almoft at the fame inftant. For his fleet had
of Antony's been defcried paffing by Apollonia and Durazzo, and fol-
lowed along the coafts: but no body knew, till fome time
after, what haven they had put into. On the firſt news of
his landing, CÆSAR and POMPEY took different reſolutions,
the first to join ANTONY, the other to prevent their join-
ing, either by force or ftratagem. Both quitted their camps.
at Apfus about the fame time; POMPEY privately by night,
CÆSAR publickly in the day-time: but he had the longer
Pompey to
intercept
circuit to take before he could ford the river; whereas
their meet- POMPEY, having no occafion to croſs the Apfus, marched
by long journeys towards ANTONY, who fo foon as he had
intelligence of his approach, chofe a convenient place to
encamp in, and gave orders there ſhould be no fires, that
the other might know nothing of his being there. But AN-
TONY was foon informed of his defign by the natives; and
but with ill having communicated an account of the enemy's motions
to CÆSAR, ſtayed one day within his camp. On advice
of CASAR's arrival, POMPEY, to prevent being blocked
up by two armies, removed with all his forces to Afpara-
gium, a town belonging to the people of Durazzo, where
he pitch'd his tents in an advantageous place.
ing;
fuccels.
1 Pontones; theſe were not like our pontones new-a-days, but rather a
kind of lighters,
1
СНАР.
Book III.
287
COMMENTARIES.
CHAP.
XI.
I
WAR.
Scipio's ava-
tions.
31. IN the mean time SCIPIO, after the ſeveral loffes C 1 v 1 L
he had received near mount Amanus, ftyled himſelf Impera-
tor, and exacted great fums of money from the ftates and
princes of that country. He obliged the receivers to pay rice and hea-
in the two years taxes which lay in their hands, and ad- vy impoſi-
vance a third, by way of loan. He likewife diftributed or-
ders to the whole province for levying cavalry; and ſo ſoon
as they were raiſed, leaving his neighbouring enemies, the
Parthians, behind him, who not long before had defeated
M. CRASSUS, and befieged BIBULUS, he marched out of
Syria with his horfe and legions. When he came into the
province, he found the natives very uneafy for fear of the * Afia,
Parthian war; his army likewife declared, though they were
ready to march againſt an enemy, yet they would not bear
arms againſt the conful and their fellow-citizens. But to
fecure them in his intereft, he gave them confiderable pre-
ſents; and having quartered them at Pergamus, and the
richeſt towns, gave them free liberty to plunder.
32. In the mean time he omitted not laying heavy taxes Scipio's
upon the province; for he made both flaves and free-men, taxes.
without diftinction, pay poll-money. Impofts were laid
upon pillars and doors of houſes, upon corn, watermen,
arms, engines, and carriages; in fine, nothing that had a
name eſcaped being taxed, not only in cities, but little towns
and villages: and he that collected thefe fubfidies with the The villain
greateſt rigour, was eſteemed the honefteſt man and beft of his col-
citizen. The province fwarmed with catchpoles, officers, lectors.
collectors, and overfeers; who, befides the publick impo-
fitions, exacted money for their own private ufe; but to
colour their extortions, alledged extream poverty, and their
being expelled their own country. To add to thefe incon-
veniencies (as it generally happens during war-time) very
high intereſt was paid for money, it being all drawn out for
the publick uſe. Infomuch, that if a debtor defired farther
time, that indulgence was reckoned as a new loan. Thus,
in two years time, the debts of the province were doubled.
Nor were the Roman citizens only liable to thefe taxes; for
certain fums of money were demanded from every ſtate and
corporation, as a loan on the credit of the fenate's decree;
and the receivers had orders to advance the next year's tri-
bute upon intereſt.
Not
288
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
WAR.
The treafure
Not content with theſe fums, he gave orders for taking
all the money and images of DIANA, out of her temple at
Ephefus, which had long been treaſured up there.
of Diana at 33. But he no fooner came into the temple, attended by
Ephefus nar-a great many fenators, than he received an exprefs, that
rowlyeſcapes CÆSAR was landed with his legions, that therefore he ſhould
him.
Cæfar and
ed.
clare forCæ-
come away immediately with his army, and make what dif
patch he could to join POMPEY. On receipt of theſe let-
ters, he difmiffed the fenators, marched directly towards
Macedonia, and arrived there within a few days. Thus the
temple of Ephefus efcaped being plundered.
CHA P. XII.
34. CÆSAR having joined ANTONY, thought it con-
Antonyjoin- venient to march further up into the country, and try the
affections of the Greeks: wherefore he drew the legion
out of Oricum, which he had left there to guard the coafts.
Theffaly and Embaffadors foon came to wait upon him from Theffaly
Ætolia de- and Ætolia, promifing to declare for his party, if he would
far. fend them garrifons to defend their country. Whereupon
he detached L. CASSIUS LONGINUS with the twenty-
feventh legion, new levies, and two hundred horſe into
Theffaly: C. CALVISIUS SABINUS, with a fmall party of
horfe, and five cohorts, into Ætolia: defiring they would
take particular care to furniſh him with corn, becauſe thoſe
provinces lay the neareft to his army. He likewife fent
CN. DOMITIUS CALVINUS with the fecond, eleventh,
twelfth legions, and five hundred horfe, into Macedonia :
for MENEDEMUS, the greateſt man of that part of the pro-
vince, which is called The Free, being fent embaffador to
CÆSAR, had affured him of his countrymens affections.
Calvifius ar-
tolia.
35. CALVISIUS, upon his arrival in Ætolia, met a wel-
rives in Æ-come reception, and made himfelf intire mafter of the
country, after having expelled the enemy's garrifons out of
Caffius in Calydo and Naupactum. But CASSIUS, when he came with
Theffaly. his legion into Theffaly, found two factions there, one
Domitius
comes into
Macedonia.
>
headed by EGESARETUS, a man of eſtabliſhed credit, for
POMPEY; the other by PRETEUS, a noble youth, who
employ'd his utmoft intereft for CÆSAR's fervice.
36. DOMITIUS, about the fame time, arrived in Mace-
donia; and whilft embaffadors from all parts were attend-
ing him, news arrived of SCIPIO's approach with his legi-
ons, which alarmed the whole country: for fame generally
renders
Book III.
289
COMMENTARIES. ·
Scipio
Leaves his
nius.
renders things more dreadful than they really are. SCIPIO CIVIL,
marched by long journies, without intermiffion, towards w A r.
DOMITIUS; but when he was arrived within twenty miles
of him, on a fudden wheeled about for Theffaly: which marches to-
he did with fo much expedition, that CASSIUS LONGINUS wards him ;
but wheels
had no notice of his marching that way, before he was about for
actually come thither. For SCIPIO, that he might make Theffaly.
the more difpatch, left his baggage behind him at the river
Haliacmon, which divides Macedonia from Theffaly, with a boggage at
guard of eight cohorts,under the command of M. FAVONIUS; Haliacmon
whom he ordered to erect a fort there. At the fame time with Favo-
COTUS's * cavalry, which frequently made inroads into Thef- * King of
faly, came to attack CASSIUS's camp; who terrified at Thrace.
the news of SCIPIO's arrival, upon fight of theſe horſe, pre-
fently concluded they were his, and made the best of his
way towards the mountains to furround Theffaly; defign-
ing from thence to march towards Ambracia. But SCIPIO,
whilft he was clofely purfuing CASSIUS, was informed by
a courier, that DOMITIUS was marching to befiege FAVO-
NIUS, who was not able to defend himſelf without SCIPIO's
affiſtance. Whereupon changing his refolution, he defifted Eut on no-
from the purfuit, and returned to FAVONIUS. Marching tice of Do-
day and night, he arrived fo opportunely to his relief, that coming to
the duft of DOMITIUS's army, and SCIPIO's van-guard, befiege Fa-
were defcried at the fame inſtant. Thus DOMITIUS's care vonius, re-
preſerved CASSIUS, and SCIPIO's diſpatch FAVONIUS.
CHAP.
XIII.
mitius's
turns.
Domitius
37. SCIPIO ftay'd two days with FAVONIUS on this Scipio and
fide the Haliacmon, which parted his from DOMITIUS'S both draw
army but the next day, early in the morning, he forded out their are
the river; and the day after, drew his forces.up in order of mies.
battle before his camp. DOMITIUS, being ready for an en-
gagement, did the like; and, becauſe there was a large
field between the two armies, he led his legions cloſe up to
SCIPIO's camp.
m
The enemy moved not from their rampier; yet DOMI- Domitius's
TIUS could hardly reftrain his foldiers from fighting, though foldiers ea-
a rivulet, with fleep banks, oppofed their paffage. SCIPIO ger to fight;
obferving how eager our foldiers were for the engagement, ftrains them,
m The original is Campus circiter millium paſſuum ſex, but must be a cor-
ruption of the text; for the laft chapter tells us, he was fo near FAVONIUS,
that the duft raiſed by his march was perceived; which could hardly be at fix
miles diftance: and to what purpofe did SCIPIO draw his army up in order of
battle, or how could DOMITIUs-fec it, if he had been fo far off?
U
that
but he re-
292
Book III,
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL informed by his fcouts, he broke up from Afparagium the
WAR. day after, hoping to difappoint him, by marching the nearer
Pompey en-
camps on
the Petra.
Canuleius
way. Which CASAR fufpecting, encouraged his foldiers
patiently to endure the fatigue; and having allowed them
but a fmall part of the night to refreſh themſelves in, arrived
the next morning early at Durazzo, where he encamped,
before POMPEY's van-guard could reach the place.
42. POMPEY'S communication with Durazzo thus inter-
cepted, and his defign defeated, as the beft method which
was left, he refolved to poffefs himſelf of the Petra, a rifing
ground, that has a tolerable good haven, which is fheltered
from fome winds. Here he gave orders for part of his gal-
lies to attend him, and corn to be brought from Afia, and
thoſe other countries which were ſubject to his command.
CASAR apprehending the war would be tedious, and de-
fpairing of fupplies from Italy, becauſe the coafts were ſo
ftraitly guarded by POMPEY's fleet, and his own fhips,
Cæfar fonds equi, ped the laft winter in Sicily, Gaul, and Italy, were
not arrived, difpatched two legates Q TULLIUS and L.
CANULEIUS to Epirus for corn. But becauſe that country
lay at ſo great a diſtance, he caufed granaries to be built in
feveral places, and ordered the neighbouring countries to
furnifh him with waggons; not omitting to gather what
corn was to be found in Liffus, the country of Parthinia,
and the adjacent ftates; which was but inconfiderable, for
the foil being mountainous and barren, the natives were
obliged to relieve themfelves by imported grain: befides,
POMPEY, who forefaw CAESAR's occafions, had already
ravaged thofe places, and, after pulling down the houſes, his
cavalry had carrived off all the corn the country afforded.
into Epirus
for corn.
Belieges
Pompey in
his camp;
¡li: reafons
xit.
CHA P. XVI.
43. WHEREFORE CASAR refolved upon a certain
expedient, which the nature of the place fuggefted. Poм-
PEY's camp was furrounded by ftcep and high mountains;
on theſe CÆSAR firſt diſpoſed parties, and erected caftles ; de-
figning, as the nature of the place would permit, afterwards
to draw lines of communication from one turret to another,
and encloſe the enemy with a ditch and a rampier. The
reafons which moved him to take this refolution were, that
as he was much diftreffed for want of corn, he might with
lefs difficulty fupply his camp, whilſt POMPEY's cavalry, of
which he had great numbers, were fhut up, and prevented
from foraging; and that he might detract from that credit.
which
1
»
}
}
}
}
:
to face p. 293.
1
Pompey's Intercourse with Durazzo cut off.
براير
H
こ
​тель
期
​9 9 99.99
99
今
​D
M
·B-
A Durazze B. Casar's Camp. C.Pompey's ony Peha D. Caesar's Lines E. Pompey's 24 Castles inclosing a circuit of
15 Miles within cm. F. G. The two armies dran nout, Pompey's close to his Rampier H. Pompey's attempt on that
part of Caesar's works next y: Sea 1. Pompey forces Cresar's ninth Legion from the hill & fortifyes it .K. his Line
drawn from 4: Camp to y River. L. Caesar's Camp over against him. M. the fifth Legion detachd by Pompey
I.
to y: assistance of his Party N. the Peha & it'shaven. O. G. River where Course Casar has stop's.
J
•
-
+
Book III.
293
COMMENTARIES.
which POMPEY had acquired amongst foreign nations; CIVIL
when it fhould be reported through the world, he was be- WAR.
fieged by CESAR, and durft not venture an engage-
ment.
in Cæfar's.
ty-four ca-
within his.
44. POMPEY in the mean time refolved neither to Pompey's
quit the advantage of the fea, nor Durazzo, where he had works with-
ftored all his preparations for the war, as darts, arms,
engines, with corn both for his fleet and army: nor could
he prevent the progrefs of CASAR's works without fight-
ing him, which he thought at that time inconvenient. The
only refuge therefore he had left, was to encloſe as many
hills, and take in as much ground within his works as pof-
fible; that he might difperfe CÆSAR's forces. The defign Pompey
fucceeded; for having erected twenty-four caftles, and builds twen
encloſed a circuit of fifteen miles, he had room enough les, in-
for his cavaliy to forage in; befides, great part of the cludes fif
ground was cultivated. Whilſt our men were drawing teen miles
their circumvallation, they were uneafy, left they fhould ne
lines.
have left any part of the work imperfect, which might fur-
niſh the enemy an opportunity of fallying, and attacking
them from behind. Nor were POMPEY's foldiers lefs
careful in perfecting their lines to defend themſelves from
the like inconvenience. But their works went faſter on
than ours, as they had more hands, and a ſmaller ſpace of
ground to enclofe. Wherefore when CAESAR attempted
to gain any place, though POMPEY defigned not to give
battle, yet he endeavoured to interrupt his progrefs, by de-
taching parties of archers and flingers, which he had
plenty of, to oppofe him. Many of our men were
wounded, and the reft put into fo much fear, that they
made themſelves coats of mail, or thick leather, to de-
fend them from danger.
Cæfar en-
45. Both generals endeavoured to make themfelves
maſters of every poft; CÆSAR, that he might block up clofes Pom-
POMPEY in a narrow compafs; and POMPEY, that he pey's works
might gain as much liberty as poffible; which occafioned within his
many fkirmiſhes,
CHAP. XVII.
fortifica-
tions.
far's ninth
AMONGST other rencounters, it happened, as A fkirmish
CESAR's ninth legion had poffeffed themselves of a piece betweenCe-
of ground, and were going to fortify it, POMPEY gained legion and
e oppofite mount, and began to interrupt their works. a party of
Our Pompey's.
U 3
#94
Book III,
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Cæfar's at
have
firſt
CIVIL Our hill on one fide was of eafy accefs; that way therefore
WAR. he first detached parties of archers, flingers, and after-
wards a ſtrong battalion of light-armed foot; plying us
warmly at the fame time with his engines: nor was it eaſy
for our foldiers at once to fuftain their charge, and go
forward with their lines. CASAR perceiving his men
were wounded from all fides, fent them orders to quit the
place and retire but the defcent being very fteep, the
enemy believing we gave ground for fear, purfued fo cloſe,
Pompey's that they allowed us no time to retreat. 'Tis reported
the worst.
vanity.
retreat.
that POMPEY ſhould vainly fay upon this occafion, to thoſe
that were near him, "He would forfeit his reputation as a
general, if CÆSAR'S legions could extricate themſelves
from the danger their rafhnefs had plunged them into,
without a confiderable lofs."
But Cæfar
46. But CESAR, folicitous for bringing off his foldiers in
fecures their fafety, caufed hurdles to be placed on the ridge of the hill,
between them adn the enemy; then having funk a trench
behind of a pretty good breadth, and laid as many obſtacles
as he could to retard the enemy's purfuit, he difpofed flingers
in convenient places to cover his men, and commanded a
retreat. Which POMPEY's party perceiving, eagerly pur-
fued, and pulling up the hurdles, attempted to get over the
ditch. Whereupon CÆSAR, apprehending this diſorderly
retreat might be mifconftrued for a rout, which would
have been a great difgrace, ordered ANTONY, who com-
manded that legion, to encourage his men, and give them
the fign of battle; upon which, after they had retired half
way down the hill, they rallied, caft their piles, and charged
the enemy fo brifkly, that they routed them notwithſtand-
ing their advantage of the upper ground; nor were POM-
PEY's men a little incommoded by the hurdles, ſtakes,
and trenches, in endeavouring to make their efcape. But
our foldiers, content to fecure themſelves, after they had
killed ſeveral of the enemy, and loft only five of their
number, quietly retired at fome paces diſtance i
where, having gained other hills, they proceeded with
their lines,
own
CHA P. XVIII.
47, THE management of this war was particularly
new and unuſual, as well in refpect of the number of caftles,
which
Book III.
295
COMMENTARIES.
which encloſed ſo vaſt a circuit of ground, and the nature CIVIL
of the works, as of other circumftances that attended it. WAR.
For generally they who befiege another, do it with a de-
fign to cut off his provifions, grounding the attempt upon
their own fuperiority of forces, or on the fear or weakneſs
of the enemy, after the lofs of a battle, or on fome other
diſadvantage which has daunted him. But CESAR befieged
POMPEY, when he was inferior to him in number, whilft
the other's troops were entire, in good order, and had
plenty of all kind of provifions: for feveral fhips arrived
every day from all parts, which fupplied them with what
they wanted; nor could any wind blow, but would waft
their convoys from one place or other. Whereas CA- Cefar's are
SAR's army, having confumed all the corn round about, my reduced
were reduced to the laſt neceffities; which they endured traits for
with fingular patience, remembring they had laboured un-want of pro-
der the fame inconveniencies in Spain but the year before;
and by furmounting them all, had brought an important
war to a happy conclufion: That they had undergone
great difficulties at Alife, and much greater at Bourges, and
yet returned victorious over powerful nations. They were Their ex-
content with peafe or barley; and thought themfelves feaft-
ed when they got any cattle, which Epirus furniſhed them.
with in great numbers.
48. During this extremity, VALERIUS's men found out
certain roots, called Chara; which, mingled with milk,
was a great relief to them, and ferved inftead of bread.
Of thefe the country afforded plenty; and whenever POM-
PEY's men reproached us with being ſtarved for want of
provifions, our foldiers, to reprefs their infolence, would fling
theſe loaves at them.
to great
vifions.
traordinary
patience,
tion.
49. Now the corn began to ripen, and the proſpect of
immediate plenty made our army endure the prefent want
with chearfulneſs: they would often declare in their difcourfe
with each other, or when they were upon the guard, "that
they would relieve their hunger with the barks of trees, and refoly-
rather than ſuffer POMPEY to eſcape them."
In the mean
time, we were frequently informed by the deferters, that
it was with difficulty they fupported their horfes, that the reft
of the cattle were actually dead, and the army much difor-
dered by being encloſed within fo narrow a compafs, that they Pompey]
were annoyed with the noxious fmells which proceeded from mighly in-
dead carcafes; fatigued by perpetual labour, which they for want of
were not uſed to; and a reduced to great extremitiesroom and
U 4
-
commoded
for water.
296
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL for want of water: For CÆSAR had either turned the
WA R. courfe of all the rivers which diſcharged themſelves that way
into the fea, or damm'd up their currents.
The ground
being mountainous, with fome few narrow intervening
vallies, like fo many dens, he ftopped the courfe of the
water through them, by making dams of piles, which he
fenced with hurdles, and covered with earth. By thefe
means the enemy had a new daily task, being obliged to
fearch for low and marthy places to dig wells in, which
yet lay at a confiderable diſtance from fome parts of the
army, and were foon dried up by the heat of the weather.
But CESAR's army was in perfect health, and plenty of
water, and all kinds of proviſions except wheat, which the
fcafon of the year promifed them plenty of in a very ſhort
time, by the approach of harveft.
50. In this new-fashioned way of waging war, both ge-
nerals made ufe of feveral ftratagems: they obferving by
our fires that our cohorts guarded the lines in the night-
time, filently approaching the works, difcharged a flight
of arrows upon our men, then retreated as faft as they
could within their own fortifications. But our foldiers,
who wanted not experience, foon found out a remedy
for this miſchief, by watching in one place, and making
fires in another.
n
CHA P. XIX.
51.
In the mean time P. SYLLA, whom CÆSAR
had left to command the camp during his abfence, having
notice how the engagement food, came to the affiftance of
the cohort with two legions; and eafily repulfed POM-
PEY'S forces, who, terrified at the fight, were much
lefs able to fuftain the charge of our foldiers. Their firſt
ranks being broken, the reft turned their backs and were
routed but SYLLA, to prevent his mens purfuing too far,
founded a retreat. 'Twas generally believed, if he had
pufhed his fuccefs, that day might have determined the
war: yet he was not to be condemned, becauſe the offices
The differ- of a lieutenant and a general are very different; the fift
tween a lieu ought never to exceed his orders, but upon a very extraor-
tenant and adinary occafion; but the other may aft without refraint.
Sylla re-
lieves his
party, then
retreats.
ence be-
general.
n Here is a great ical wanting: I fippele CASAR's attempt upon Du-
525-C:
*
SYLLA
Book III.
297
COMMENTARIES.
SYLLA thought he had done enough to deliver his own CIVIL
party out of danger, and had he gone further, perhaps he WAR.
might have been reflected on for affuming a greater power
than belonged to him. POMPEY's men found great diffi-
culty in retreating; for having mounted to the top of a hill,
when they came to deſcend again, our foldiers had a great
advantage over them: the difpute continued till almoft fun-
fet; for the hope of accompliſhing their defign made them
maintain the fight with great obftinacy. But POMPEY at
laft, finding no other way, poffeffed himſelf of another hill,
beyond the reach of darts and engines from our turret.
Here he fat down, fortified the place, and bought all his
forces together.
52. Our men were engaged in two other places at the
fame time; for POMPEY attacked feveral caſtles at once,
to divert our forces, and prevent one party from fending
relief to the other. VOLCATIUS TULLUS, in one place, Volcatius
fuftained and repulfed the charge of an entire legion with Tullus re-
three cohorts; in another, the Germans fallying out, pulfes a le-
gion of Pom-
flew ſeveral of the enemy, and returned ſafe again within
our lines.
pey's with
three co-
horts.
fides.
53. Thus in one day CESAR had fix engagements,
three at Durazzo, three at his works; and computing the
flain on both fides, it appeared POMPEY had loft two The number
thouſand; in which number were feveral centurions and of the flain
volunteers: particularly VALERIUS FLACCUS, the fon of on both
LUCIUS, who was formerly governor of Afia; with fix
ſtandards. On our fide, not above twenty were killed,
but not a foldier in the fort efcaped being wounded: Four
centurions in one cohort loft their eyes, who as an argu-
ment of their courage and the dangers they had gone through
brought CÆSAR about thirty thoufand arrows which had Sceva's
been fhot into the caftle, with the centurion ° SCAEVA's courage.
fhield, which had two hundred and thirty holes in it. CA-
SAR therefore, to reward a perfon who had fo well merited.
of him and the repub ick, prefented him with P fix hundred
• The number of theſe arrows, and the holes sCEVA had in his fhield, are
almoſt incredible; but the encreaſe no doubt is owing to thofe that have tran-
fcribed the original; fome manufcripts reduce thefe holes to 120, which agreas
with the number mentioned by SUETONIUS.
p The original is millibus ducentis æris. Mr. D'ABLANCOURT tranflates this
deux mille ceus, two thouſand crowns; Mr. EDMUNDS 6col. But if THO-
MASIUS's account be true, whofe cxcellent (though fhort) differtation on Latin
monies, I dare venture to rely on, both theſe gentlemen must be miſtaken,
especially the French; for computing their crowns at English value, which
they fall confiderably short of, the fum will but amount to sool. BLADEN.
fixty-
and reward.
298
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Book III.
CIVIL fixty-fix pounds, thirteen fhillings and four-pence fterling;
WAR. and promoted him from being an eighth centurion to be firſt
Kalenus,
Sabinus, and
Caffius fent
centurion of the legion; for his courage had contributed
much to the faving of the fort, As for the cohorts, he
decreed them double pay, and double allowances for meat
and cloathing, with many other military ornaments.
54. POMPEY, having wrought all night to compleat his
trenches, built his turrets afterwards, and raifing his for-
tifications fifteen foot high, covered that part of his camp
with mantlets. Having ftaid there five days, by the favour
of a very dark night he retreated in filence to his former
works, after he had cloſely blocked up the gates of his
camp, to prevent a purſuit.
CHAP. XX.
55. LONGINUS and CALVISIUS having poffeffed
themfelves of Ætolia, Acharnania, and Amphilochis, CAE-
SAR thought it convenient to purfue his good fortune,
and attempt the gaining of Achaia: wherefore he fent FU-
SIUS KALENUS, Q. SABINUS, and CASSIUS thither, with
a detachment. On notice of their approach, RUTILIUS
to Achaia. LUPUS, who commanded that province for POMPEY,
lodged himſelf in the Ifthmus, hoping to ftop their paffage.
But Delphi, Thebes, and Orchomenus, of their own ac-
cord ſubmitted to KALENUS; fome ſtates he obtained by
force, and to others fent embaffadors, perfuading them to
embrace CÆSAR's intereft. This was FUSIUS's concern.
Cæfar offers
56. CESAR, in the mean time, omitted not drawing
Pompey bat-
tle; which out his forces every day, offering POMPEV battle on equal
he declines. ground; and, to provoke him to accept it, led his army
up fo near the enemy's camp, that his van-guard was al-
moft within engine-fhot of their rampier. POMPEY, in-
deed, to fave his credit, drew out his legions too; but ſo
cloſe to their trenches, that his third line touched their
rampier, and all his army might have been covered by
the weapons caft from thence.
All theſe gentlemen proceed upon one common interpretation, viz. that milli-
bus ducentis æris means 2000 affes, and only differ in the value of the as. But
it was the cuſtom of CÆSAR's age to compute by ſefterces, not affes. Accord
ingly fome MSS. omit aris. If it is retained, the meaning is the fame, aris
being added in conformity to the original valuation of the fefterces, which was
two brass affes and a half. Thus Plin. N. H. 1. v. c. ii. aris noftri fumma eft
HS. cccx11. Now 200,000 fefterces at 2 d. each, is 16661. 13 s. 4 d.
CÆSAR gave SCÆVA half a knight's eftate, and preferred him to a military ho-
nour next that of knighthood. Typogr.
1
1
57. Such
Book III.
299
COMMENTARIES.
VAR.
Cæfar fends
Clodius to
57. Such was the poſture of affairs in Achaia, and at CIVIL
Durazzo, when SCIPIO arrived in Macedonia: upon no-
tice of which CESAR ftill retaining the fame peaceable de-
fires, difpatched away CLODIUS to him, an intimate friend
to them both; whom CÆSAR had entertained upon SC1- Scipio to
PIO's recommendation. Before his departure, he gave treat about a
him a letter to deliver, with other inftructions to this ef- peace.
fect; That he had left nothing unattempted to obtain a His meffage;
peace, though he believed his endeavours had been fruftrated
by the neglect of the perfons he had employ'd; who durſt
not mention his demands to POMPEY at a proper time:
but he knew SCIPIO's power to be fo confiderable, that
he could not only freely adviſe, but enforce the execution of
his own counfels, and oblige POMPEY to hearken to rea-
fon. For as he had the independent command of an army,
he could back his authority by arms, and had it in his op-
tion to bleſs Italy and the provinces with peace, and make
the whole empire a debtor to him alone for her fafety."
CLODIUS performed his commiffion, and at firft met a
whichproves
favourable audience, but afterwards could not be heard ineffectual,
by means of FAVONIUS, who reprimanded SCIPIO for
hearkening to a negociation, as was difcovered after the
conclufion of the war.
Extream
want of fo-
58. CÆSAR in the mean time, that he might the more
eaſily ſhut up POMPEY's horfe in Durazzo, and prevent
their foraging, blockaded all the roads (which we have al-
ready faid were narrow) with ftrong works, on which he
erected caftles. But POMPEY, finding they could not effect
what he had defigned, conveyed them by fea from Durazzo
to his camp again. Forage was fo fcarce, they were ob-
liged to feed their horfes with green reeds, or leaves taken
off the trees; for all the corn they had fown within their rage in Pom-
lines was confumed, and they were obliged to fend a great pey's cainp.
way about by fea for forage to Corfu and Acharnania;
which falling fhort, they mixed it with barley, to fupport
their horſes. But afterwards having confumed all their
barley, grafs, herbs and boughs of trees, their horfes being
almoſt dead with famine, POMPEY thought it high time to
make an eruption.
CHAP.
XXI.
59. IN CÆSAR's camp were two Savoyards, who came
along with the cavalry which their country fent, ROSCIL-
LUS
300
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
ว
Ꭺ Ꭱ.
CIVIL LUS and AGUS, fons of ADBUCILLUS, who were for ma
WAR. ny years together had borne the moft confiderable fway of
any perfon in Savoy. Theſe were gentlemen of extraor-
dinary courage, and had done CAESAR particular fervice
during his wars in Gaul; for which reafon he had reward-
ed them with great offices, and taken care to get them
elected into the fenate, contrary to the ufual order; and
not only prefented them with large fums of money, but
raiſed their fortunes by ample grants of the enemy's for-
feited eftates; nor had their perfonal merit gained them
lefs credit with the army than with CESAR ; but prefuming
upon his favour, and growing barbaroufly proud and haugh-
Rofcillus ty, they defpifed their countrymen, cheated the cavalry of
and Agus their pay, and applied the money to their own private ufe.
countrymen Whereupon the foldiers complained of this ufage in a body
the Savoy to CAESAR, taxing them, amongſt other articles, with
making falfe mufters.
cheat their
ards of their
pay.
Cæfar re-
primands
60. CÆSAR, thinking it no proper time to enquire far-
ther into their crime, and having a particular refpect for the
perfons complained of, took an occafion to reprimand them
in private, for making a property of the foldiers; adviſing
them for it. them to trust to his friendfhip for the reward of their fer-
vices, which they might in fome meafure eſtimate from
the earneſt, they had already received. However, this af-
fair difgufted them, becauſe it diminiſhed their former cre-
dit; for confcioufnefs of the fact rendered them as uneafy
as the reflections that were caft upon them for it. Thus
prompted by fhame, and perhaps by fear, not believing
themſelves cleared, but that their puniſhment was only de-
ferred to another time, they reſolved to defert, and try
their fortunes elſewhere, in fearch of new friendſhips.
Having communicated their defign to a few of their clients,
whom they could entruſt with ſo important a project,
They defign they at first attempted to murder c. VOLUSENUS, general
to murder of the horfe (as was difcovered, when the war was over)
Volufenus, that they might render themfelves more welcome to POM-
PEY by fo fignal a piece of fervice. But finding this defign
impracticable, for want of an opportunity to accompliſh it,
they borrowed great fums of money, on pretence of making
reftitution to the foldiers they had injured; and having pur-
chafed with it great numbers of horses, they went over to
POMPEY, with thofe they had admitted into the fecret.
and then de-
iert,
61. POMPEY, becauſe they were perfons of quality, li-
to Pumpes; berally educated, came well attended with fervants and
They defert
horfes,
Book III.
301
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
horſes, were reputed men of courage, and in great eſteem Ci v I L
with CESAR, waited on them round about his works, to
fhew them to his foldiers, as a very unuſual fight : for be-
fore that time neither horfe nor foot foldier had ever de-
ferted from CESAR to him, though deferters flocked al-
moſt every day from POMPEY to CAESAR, efpecially from
amongſt the new levies in Epirus, Ætolia, and thofe coun-
tries that had declared for his intereft.
where Ce-
The Savoyards, having accurately remarked all the ſtrong give him in-
places and defects in our works, the particular times, di- telligence
ftance of place, the ftrength and vigilance of the guards, far's works
with the character of each individual officer, gave FOMPEY are ftrong,
an exact account.
CHAP.
XXII.
and where
the weakest.
62. UPON this intelligence, POMPEY refolved to put Pompey's
his former defign of fallying forth in execution: wherefore preparations.
he commanded the foldiers to cover their helmets with for a fally.
ofiers, and prepare fafcines; which being done, ſo foon as
it was dark, he put on board fome ſmall veffels a ftrong
party of light-armed infantry and archers, with materials
for filling up CESAR's trenches; and about midnight
made a draught of ſixty cohorts out of his larger camp, and
ſent them to that part of CÆSAR's lines which were neareſt
the fea, and lay fartheft from his head-quarters. There
he ordered the veflels with the light-armed infantry, and
the gallies which lay at Durazzo, to meet him; giving
them their ſeveral inftructions how to act. The works A deferir-
which POMPEY defigned to ftorm, were guarded by the tion of the
quæftor LENTULUS MARCELLINUS, with the ninth le-place Pom-
pay formea.
gion, who had taken FULVIUS POSTHUMUS for his coad-
jutor, becauſe he found himſelf indiſpoſed.
63. Here was a ditch fifteen foot deep, with a rampier
ten foot high, and of an equal breadth: about two hundred
yards within them was another rampier fomething lower
than the former, and with a contrary front, which CÆSAR
had raiſed not many days before, to prevent the fhips from
being furrounded, and defend his men if they ſhould be
attacked by a double affault at once. But the extent of the
lines, and the perpetual fatigue the foldiers had endured in
incloſing a circuit of eighteen miles, had interrupted this
work: fo the cross rampier, which fhould have made a
communication between theſe and the reft of our lines,
Was
302
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL was not compleat: this POMPEY had notice of from the
WAR. Savoyards, which was of fatal confequence to us. The
out-guards of the ninth legion, by break of day, diſcovered
POMPEY's forces; which furprized them extreamly; for
at the ſame inftant the foot and archers from on board caft
ſhowers of darts upon the outward rampier, thoſe that
came thither by land were filling up their trenches, fixing
their ſcaling-ladders, and driving our foldiers from the in-
ner works by their darts and engines; having firſt diſpoſed
confiderable numbers of archers on both fides our fortifica-
tions. The only refuge we had left in this extremity,
was to ply the enemy with ftones; but the ofiers they had
wound about their helmets, prevented our doing any great
execution. To add to theſe misfortunes, having defcried
the defect in our lines, they landed their men between the
two rampiers, attacked our foldiers in the rear, and obliged
them to quit both fides of the works.
64. MARCELLINUS, on notice of this diforder, fent a
party to ſuſtain his out-guards; which arrived not before
they were routed; and could neither perfuade them to
rally, nor were able themſelves to maintain their ground.
The more fupplies he fent, the more confuſion he created;
for they were no fooner arrived, but they were infected
with the fame fear that poffeffed their fellow foldiers, and
only ferved to prevent each other's retreat. During this
engagement, the eagle-bearer of the legion, finding him-
felf mortally wounded, and almoſt ſpent with lofs of blood,
The courage thus addreffed the cavalry: "Many years have I carefully
of the Eagle- guarded this enfign, and now I furrender it to CÆSAR be-
bearer.
fore I die let me conjure you to deliver it ſafe to him,
nor ſuffer ſo great an ignominy to befal him as the lofs of
an eagle, which was never yet heard of in his army.
Thus the ſtandard was preferved, though all the centurions
of the firft cohort, except the primiple, were killed.
65. The enemy, having made a dreadful flaughter a
mongſt our men, had almoſt forced their way to MARCEL-
LINUS's quarters, and ftruck no finall terror into the reft
of the cohorts of that legion; when M. ANTONY, who
guarded the fort next to MARCELLINUS, on advice of
the difpute, defcended with twelve cohorts from the higher
ground to his relief. ANTONY's arrival foon put a stop to
their career, and infpired our party with freſh courage. Not
long after, CÆSAR, having notice of diftrefs by the fmoke of
the caftles, the ufual fignal upon fuch occafions, drew fome
cohorts
3
Book III.
303
COMMENTARIES.
cohorts out of the lines, and came up to the affiftance of CIVIL
his foldiers.
WAR
CHAP.
XXIII.
CESAR, after he had informed himſelf of the lofs he
had fuftained, and perceiving that POMPEY was now no
Pompey
breaks out
longer confined within his lines, and was encamped fo con- of the forti
veniently near the fea, that his horfe had liberty enough fications,
to forage, and he ſtill enjoyed the fame ufe of his ſhipping
as before, altered his former ſcheme, which had proved in-
effectual, and encamped as near the enemy as he could.
new camp.
66. When his camp was fortified, he had notice from Cæfar and
his fcouts, that a certain number of the enemy's cohorts, Pompey's
which to them appeared a compleat legion, were retired
behind a wood into the works that had formerly been de-
ferted. For fome few days before, CESAR's ninth legion
(as was mentioned) being attacked by a party of POMPEY'S, See § 45,
whilst they were carrying on the lines, retired a little far-46.
ther off, and encamped themſelves upon another hill, ad-
joining to a wood, not above four hundred paces diftant
from the fea but afterwards, CÆSAR, for certain reafons,
removed beyond that place, which POMPEY, not many
days after, poffeffed himſelf of: and becauſe the works were
not large enough to contain fo many legions as he defigned
to lodge there, leaving the old rampier ftanding, he caft
up another beyond it, defigning the firft fhould ferve in-
ftead of a citadel; from the left angle of his camp he had
likewiſe drawn a line of communication to the river, about
fix hundred foot long, that his army might fetch water
without danger. But fome time after, changing his mind
for ſome reaſons not neceffary to be mentioned at preſent,
he left the place: fo the camp, with all the works, re-
mained ſeveral days entire.
67. Hither the ſcouts reported they faw the ftandard of
a legion carried, which was confirmed by advice from the
higher turrets. This place was about five hundred paces
diftant from POMPEY's new camp; CASAR therefore,
being defirous to repair the lofs he had fuftained, and ho-
ping he might furprize this legion, left only two cohorts,
for a blind, to carry on the works; and taking a diffèrent
rout, marched as privately as he could with thirty-three
more (amongſt which number was the ninth legion, that
had fuffered fo feverely in the late action, by the lofs of
feveral
304
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
tempt to cut
Book III.
CIVIL feveral centurions and foldiers) he led them, ready drawn
WAR. up in two lines, to the leffer camp, where POMPEY'S
legions had lodged themfelves. Nor was CAESAR deceived
Cæfar's at- in his opinion, for he arrived at the place before POMPEY
off a party of Could have notice of his defign; and though the fortifica-
Pompey's. tions were ftrong, yet the left wing, where he himſelf
He has great was prefent, brifkly charging the enemy, obliged them to
first. quit the rampier: but the port being ſtopped by a turn-
pike, gave them an opportunity to maintain their ground,
and oppoſe our entrance. Here T. PULCIO, who betrayed
ANTONY's forces, gave fignal proofs of his courage. But
at laſt the virtue of our men prevailed; and having forced
the bar, they firſt entered the outward trenches, afterwards
the inner works or citadel, and killed ſeveral of the ene-
my, for thither they had retired.
fuccefs at
urns about.
૧
1
68. But Fortune, whofe influence is powerful in all
things, eſpecially in war, where fhe cauſes the greateſt re-
volutions in a moment, now exerted her prerogative. For
the right wing of CAESAR's party, being unacquainted
with the place, feeking for another gate, followed the
rampier, which led to the river, where they arrived be-
fore they perceived their miſtake: then finding no body
to oppoſe them, got over the rampier, and were followed
by the horſe.
CHA P. XXIV.
69. IN the mean time POMPEY, having fufficient no-
But fortune tice, detached the fifth legion to relieve his party. Thus,
at the fame inftant, his cavalry approached ours, and our
foldiers, who had poffeffed the camp, defcried the fifth
legion marching to the place of action in order of battle;
which immediately changed the pofture of affairs. For
the enemy, encouraged by hopes of fpeedy relief, poffeffed
themſelves of the decuman port, and charged our cohorts.
Our cavalry having got over the rampier into a narrow
paffage, fearing they could not fecure their retreat, firſt
began to fly; the right wing perceiving their diſorder,
gets the bet- and finding themfelves cut off from the reft of their party,
to prevent being fet upon in fo difadvantageous a place,
followed their example; feveral of them, to avoid being
ſhut up between the two rampiers, which were ten foot
and Pompey
ter.
9 Eritius, which SUETONIUS Calls Ericus, and differs not much from the
modern Cheval de Frize.
high,
Book III.
305
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
high, caft themſelves from thence into the trenches; where Civ IL
the firſt ranks being trodden to death, procured a ſafe re-
treat to thoſe that came after. In the mean time the
foldiers of the left wing, perceiving POMPEY's approach, and
obferving the confufion of the right, apprehending they
ſhould be encloſed, and attacked from without, as well as
within, began to think of retreating the fame way they
came thither in fine, nothing was to be feen but fear,
flight, and diforder. And when CESAR, to put a stop to
it, laid hold of the enfigns, commanding them to halt,
fome quitted their horfes, and ran away on foot; others were
fo frightened, they let the enfigns drop, and no one had
the courage to make a ſtand.
70. Whilft affairs were in this defperate condition, it
happened very fortunately, to prevent all our party from be-
ing cut off, that POMPEY, who juſt before faw his foldiers
flying out of his camp, finding now every thing turn in his fa-
vour fo much beyond his expectation, apprehended an ambuf
cade, as I fuppofe, and durft not for fome time approach his
works. His cavalry was prevented from purſuing by the nar-
rowneſs of the way, and the difficulty of paffing the portals,
where CASAR's foldiers were planted. So fmall a matter
happened to be of great importance to both parties. For
as the works which led to the water, deprived CÆSAR
of the victory he had obtained, fo they preferved his men
by retarding the enemy's purfuit.
71. In the two engagements of this day CESAR loſt
thirty-two ftandards, with nine hundred and fixty men,
amongſt which number fell many Roman knights of note,
as FELGINAS TUTICANUS GALLUS a fenator's fon, c.
FELGINAS of Placentia, A. GRAVIUS of Puteoli, M.
SACRATIVIR of Capua, befides thirty tribunes and cen-
turions: but the greateſt part of them died without wounds,
being loft in the trenches, works, and river, ruined by their
own fear and diforderly flight. After this engagement Pompey ob
POMPEY was faluted by the name of Imperator, a title he tains the ti.
bore ever after; however he uſed it not in the ftyle of his perator.
letters, nor fuffered laurel to be carried before him in his
confular rods. But the traitor LABIENUS, having begged Labienus's
cruelty to
the priſoners might be delivered into his hands, caufed them Cefar's fol-
to be brought out for oftentation, and calling them fellow- diers that
foldiers, demanded, in a haughty manner, whether veteran were taken.
foldiers uſed to fly; then cauſed them to be murdered in
the preſence of the whole army, that he might gain himſelf
the greater credit with POMPEY.
X
72. The
tle of Im-
306
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
party proud
ceis.
72. The enemy were fo puffed up with this fuccefs, that
WAR. they thought no longer of carrying on the war, believing
~ themſelves compleat victors already: not remembering the
Pompey's inferiority of number on our ſide, their advantage of place,
of this fuc- the inconvenience of the paffage, their being firſt maſters of
the camp; nor our confufion within and without the fortifi-
cations, with the feparation of our forces that could not
relieve each other, which were the real cauſes of the defeat :
not confidering the battle was managed with no manner of
order, no formal engagement; that our foldiers did them-
ſelves more harm in the narrow paffes, than they received
from the enemy: and laftly, they made no allowance for
the common events of war; where the moſt inſignificant
caufes, groundleſs fufpicions, furmizes or fcruples, prove
of fatal conſequence; where an army is often loft by the
fall of a general, or the error of a tribune: but, as if the
fuccefs of the day was wholly owing to their own bravery,
and fortune had no further power over them, divulged the
fame of this action throughout the univerſe.
Cæfar de-
camps, first
makes a
foldiers.
CHAP. XXV.
73. CÆSAR's former fcheme thus rendered ineffectual,
he refolved to think of other methods; wherefore, having
fpeech to his drained all his forts, and quitted the fiege, he appointed a
general rendezvous of his foldiers, to whom he made an
harangue, "encouraging them not to be dejected at what
had happened, but to oppofe their continued feries of fuc-
cefs to this ſmall difappointment. That they fhould re-
flect on their obligations to Fortune, for the reduction
of Italy without bloodshed; for the acquifition of Spain,
though guarded by two powerful and experienced generals;
and for the friendſhip of the neighbouring provinces, which
furniſhed them with corn, and other fup, lies. That they
ſhould remember how they had efcaped falling into the
enemy's hand, when they failed through the midft of their
fquadrons, which poffeffed all the coafts and havens; and
endeavour to overcome ill fortune by their induſtry, at-
tributing the damage to her alone, not to him, who had led
them to an advantageous place, poffeffed himſelf of the
enemy's camp, expelled and overcome them that oppoſed
him: but whether the lofs of the victory he had actually
obtained was owing to the confufion his foldiers were in, to
their miſtake, or fortune, it imported them all to endea-
vour to retrieve it by their application: which might turn
the
Book III.
30%.
COMMENTARIES.
WAB.
the ſcales again to their advantage, as it happened at Cler- CIVIL
mont; where, of their own accord, they offered the
enemy battle, with whom not long before were afraid to✔
engage.
caſhiers
defire to re-
74. After he had ended this fpeech, he cafhiered fome Cæfar
enfigns but the foldiers in general were ſo fenfibly afflicted fome en-
at the difgrace they had received, and fo defirous to regain figns.
their credit, that there was no occafion either for the tri- The foldiers
bunes or centurions to remind them of their duty; every drefs the
man impoſed a harder taſk upon himfelf, as a puniſhment lofs.
for the late diſhonour, than either his duty or CÆSAR re-
quired from him; all were eager to engage the enemy, and
fome officers of note were fo affected with CÆSAR's fpeech,
that they defired him upon the fpot where they were to
venture a battle. But he thought it not convenient to de-
pend upon an army which had been fo lately intimidated,
before time had recovered their ſpirits; befides, having quit-
ted his works, which before inclofed POMPEY, he was now
apprehenfive his convoys might be cut off by the enemy.
75. Wherefore having taken care of the fick and He decamps.
wounded, without further delay, as foon as night approach-
ed, he fent away all his baggage under a guard of one le-
gion towards Apollonia, with orders not to halt till they
Thould have performed their journey. This affair diſpatch-
ed, keeping only two legions, about three in the morning
he drew out the main body of the army at ſeveral gates of
the camp, and ordered them to follow the fame rout the
baggage had taken. Soon after theſe had begun their
march, that military difcipline might be obferved and the
news of his removing known as late as poffible, he ordered
the ufual fign for decamping to be given; and then fet out
with the reſt of his forces.
POMPEY immediately took the alarm, and hoping to
furprize CÆSAR's army during their march, whilst they
were incumbered with their baggage, drew out all his
forces, fending his cavalry before to interrupt our rear:
but CESAR having difpofed of his carriages, marched with
fo much diſpatch, that he arrived at the river Genufus, be-
fore the enemy's horfe could come up with him. Here
they charged his army in the rear; but he fent his cavalry, Pompey's
intermixt with a party of his light-armed first line, to cavalry at-
ſuſtain their charge, who obliged them to retreat; and af-
ter having killed feveral of them, returned fate again to defeated,
the main body.
tack his
rear, but are
;
Y 2
76. CÆSAR,
*308
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
CIVIL
76. CASAR, having marched as far as he defigned that
WAR. day, and croffed the Genufus, took up his quarters in his
old camp, over-againſt Afparagium. He commanded all
Cæfar en- the foot to keep themſelves within the rampier but fent
against A- out the cavalry to forage, with orders to return immediately
fparagium. by the decuman port.
camps over-
the like.
CHAP.
XXVI.
POMPEY likewife, having compleated his day's
Pompey does journey, lodged himſelf in his former camp at Aſparagium;
but his foldiers, finding themfelves at leifure, becauſe the
works were entire, fome made long excurfions to fetch
wood or forage, and others, having fet out upon ſo ſhort
notice, that they were obliged to march without their
baggage, enticed by the nearness of the place, laid down
their arms, and went back again to fetch what they had left
behind them.
CASAR, forefeeing the abfence of the foldiers would pre-
Cæfar gains vent POMPEY's purfuit, about noon gave the fign for de-
a day's camping, and drawing out his army, marched twice as far as
march be-
the day before, being eight miles removed from POMPEY,
who by reafon of the abfence of his foldiers was not able to
follow him.
fore him;
77. The day after CESAR decamped again about four
in the morning, having fent away his baggage over night,
that, in cafe he ſhould be obliged to engage the enemy, he
might the better prevent a furprize, having no carriages to
hinder him. This order he obferved in his march every
day, by which means he croffed the deepeſt rivers, and
moft rugged paffes, without the leaft inconvenience. For
and he can- POMPEY, having entirely loft the firſt day, and in vain at-
tempted by long journies to overtake CESAR afterwards,
finding he could not accompliſh his defires, refolved the
fourth day to purfue no farther.
Bot overtake
him again.
Cæfar calls 78. CÆSAR was obliged to halt at Apollonia, to leave
at Apollonia; the wounded there, to pay his army, confirm his friends in
marches to their fidelity, and difpofe garrifons for the fafety of the coun-
join Domi- try. But he allowed no longer time for thefe affairs than
from thence
sius,
was abfolutely neceflary: and apprehending DOMITIUS
might be furprized by POMPEY, he made all imaginable
hafte to join him. For the fcheme which CESAR pro-
ceeded on, was this; that POMPEY would either follow
him, and, being drawn far diſtant from the fea, and thoſe
provifions which he had treaſured up at Durazzo, be reduced
by want of fubfiftence to engage him upon equal terms;
or
Book III.
309
COMMENTARIES.
or that he would croſs the feas for Italy; in which cafe cÆ- CIVIL
SAR, in conjunction with DOMITIUS, would purſue him WAR.
through Illyricum. But fhould POMPEY inveft Apollonia
or Oricum, and endeavour to deprive him of the fea coafts,
then CÆSAR would befiege SCIPIO, which would oblige
POMPEY to defift from that attempt. Wherefore having
wrote to DOMITIUS, to acquaint him with his defign, and
left a garriſon of four cohorts at Apollonia, of one at Lif
fus, of three at Oricum, and difpofed of the fick and
wounded, he marched through Epirus and Acarnania.
CHA P. XXVII.
POMPEY likewife gueffing at CESAR's defign,
thought it neceffary to make what hafte he could to SCIPIO's
relief, if CÆSAR marched that way: but if he reſolved not
to quit Corfu and the fea-coafts till he received the le-
gions and cavalry he expected, then POMPEY would attack
DOMITIUS.
Macedonia,
79. Thus the affair depended on diſpatch, for it highly
imported each army to relieve their friends, and not lofe a
moment, which might furniſh them with an opportunity of
furprizing their enemies. CESAR went ſomewhat about
by going through Apollonia. Whereas POMPEY marched Pompey
the neareſt way through Candavia for Macedonia; and it marches to
happened very unluckily, that DOMITIUS, who for many
days together hath encamped over-againft SCIPIO, was
now gone to Heraclea Sentica, a fief of Candavia, to pro-
vide his army with corn: fo that fortune feemed to throw
him directly in POMPEY's way, of which CÆSAR had then
no intelligence. POMPEY had taken care to fend letters
before him to every ftate and province, with an account of
the action at Durazzo; wherein he enlarged fo much to his
own advantage, that it was generally believed CÆSAR was
put to fight with the lofs of almoſt all his forces. This
report made fome ftates come over to POMPEY, and ſe-
cure the paffes of their country; fo that feveral expreffes
which were fent between CÆSAR and DOMITIUS, were all
intercepted but the Savoyards under ROSCILLUS and GUS, See § 59.
(who were before mentioned to have gone over to POM-
PEY) meeting DOMITIUS's courriers on the road, either out
of vain glory, or ancient friendſhip (as they had ſerved to-
gether in Gaul) gave them an exact account of the poſture.
of affairs, of CESAR's march, and POMPEY's approach.
Thus DOMITIUS, obliged to the enemy for his intelligence,
narrowly
:
X 3
310
C. J. CESAR'S
Book III,
CIVIL narrowly escaped the danger, when he was not above four
WAR. hours march from POMPEY, and arrived at Æginium,
a town fituate on the frontiers of Theffaly, where he
narrowly ef-joined CÆSAR, then haftening to meet him,
Domitius
capes him by
advice from
fome of his
own party.
Cæfar and
Domitius
joined.
Cæfar
CHAP. XXVIII.
80. THE two armies in conjunction marched to Gomphi,
the first town in Theffaly towards Epirus; which nation, not
many months before, of their own accord had ſent embaſſa-
marches in- dors to CÆSAR, making a tender to him of what their coun-
to Theffaly. try afforded, and defiring he would fend fome forces to defend
them. But hither likewife had the fame of the battle of
Durazzo extended, and ANDROSTHENES, prætor of the
province, chufing rather to be a companion of POMPEY'S
fuccefs than CÆSAR's adverſity, fummoned all the ſervants
and children out of the fields into the town, and then ſhut
the gates againſt CESAR, having diſpatched meffengers to
Androfthe- POMPEY and SCIPIO to fend him fupport: he durft rely,
nes fhuts the he faid, upon the fortifications of the town, provided they
would come immediately, but it would be impoffible for
Gomphi
against him. him to hold out any time. Now SCIPIO, on advice of
the army's quitting Durazzo, had marched to Lariffa; and
Cæfar ſtorms POMPEY was not yet arrived near Theffaly. Wherefore
and takes CASAR having encamped himſelf, caufed all things ne-
four hours ceffary for a ftorm to be prepared; then, to encourage his
gates of
the town in
time.
foldiers to make a vigorous aſſault, he told them what im-
portance it would be of, to render themfelves mafters of fo
rich a town, ftored with provifions fufficient to relieve all
their wants; that the taking it would ftrike a terror into
other ſtates; and that it muſt be done before the enemy came
to their relief. The foldiers were fo alert, that though they
began not the ſtorm till three in the afternoon, the very day
they arrived before the place, yet they carried it before
fun-fet. As a reward for their valour, CESAR gave them
free leave to plunder; and having decamped, marched to
Metropolis, not allowing fame time enough to acquaint
them with the fate of Gomphi before his arrival.
81. The inhabitants, moved by the fame reaſons, at firſt
Metropolis
furrenders. denied him entrance, and manned the walls with foldiers
but afterwards, being informed from the prifoners whom
CESAR brought from Gomphi, that their city was fack'd,
they opened the gates, and CÆSAR took care the foldiers
ſhould commit no excelles among them. The other states
of
Book III.
311
COMMENTARIES.
v I L
WAR.
of Theffaly, reflecting on the different ufage Metropolis C
and Gomphi had met with, one for receiving, the other for
oppofing CÆSAR, all immediately fubmitted to him, except All the
Lariffa; which SCIPIO poffeffed with a confiderable army. fates of
Thus CESAR having rendered himſelf mafter of a plentiful Theffaly,
country, where the corn was almoft ripe, here refolved to except Larif-
take up his quarters, and attending POMPEY's arrival, bring like,
the weight of the war to this place.
CHA P. XXIX.
fa, do the
82. POMPEY, not many days after, coming into Pompey ar
Theffaly, joined SCIPIO, and affembling both armies, maderives in
a ſpeech to the foldiers, wherein "He firft returned thanks Theffaly;
joins Scipio;
to his own for the fervices they had done; then encouraged his fpeech to
SCIPIO's to come in for fharers of the booties and rewards, his foldiers,
which would follow the victory now put into their hands.
Having received both armies into one camp, he divided his
command with SCIPIO, ordering a Prætorian tent to be
erected for him, and the trumpets to attend him. POMPEY
being thus ftrengthened by the union of two fuch power-
ful armies, the foldiers were confirmed in their favoura-
ble prepoffeffions, and made themſelves fo fure of victo-
ry, that every moment feemed to delay their return to
Italy; wherefore when POMPEY acted flowly, or with
confideration, they would often fay, the bufinefs was only
ſuch as might be diſpatched in a day; but that POMPEY
was in love with authority, and cared not how long he
detained the confuls and prætors amongſt the number of his
fervants. They began already to difpute in publick about Hot difputes
the rewards they were to have, and the difpofal of the in Pompey's
priesthoods, nominating who fhould fucceed to the con-
fulate for ſeveral years fucceffively. Others laid claim of offices.
to the goods and houſes of thofe that were of CA-
SAR's party and it was warmly debated in council,
whether L. HIRRUS, whom POMPEY had fent againſt the
Parthians, ſhould ſtand the next election for prætor by
proxy fome urged POMPEY's promife in his behalf; and
defired their friend, who depended on the general's
honour, might not find himſelf deceived; others oppoſed
it, faying, fince he was not the only perfon that embarked
in that dangerous enterprize, there was no reafon he ſhould
be preferred before the reft.
army about
the ſharing
}
83. DOMITIUS, SCIPIO, and LENTULUS SPINTHER, Flamen Di-
were perpetually contending for CESAR'S priesthood, fo alis.
X 4
far
312
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R'S
IVIL far as to proceed to high words concerning it; LENTULUS
WAR. urging the reſpect due to his age, DOMITIUS the intereſt
he had at Rome, and SCIPIO depending on his alliance
with POMPEY. ATTIUS RUFUS accufed L. AFRANIUS
for betraying the army in Spain; and DOMITIUS moved
in council, there might be a high-commiffion of fenators
erected, who had been prefent in the war, for trying not
only ſuch as had ſtaid at Rome, but thoſe likewiſe that at-
tended POMPEY, and had not performed their duty; and
that theſe commiffioners might be entruſted with a triple
power, to acquit, condemn to death, or impofe fines. In
ſhort, the whole army was taken up with the thoughts of
rewards, honours, and revenge; not contriving how to
gain the victory, but how to employ it.
CHAP.
XXX.
Cæfar daily 84. CÆSAR, having now provided himſelf with corn,
offers Pom- and allowed the foldiers fufficient time to re-affume their
pey battle;
which is not courage after the battles of Durazzo, reſolved to make ſome
#ccepted. tryal of it, as well as of POMPEY's difpofition to fight.
Wherefore having drawn out his forces, he ranged them in
order of battle near their own trenches, fome diftance from
POMPEY'S: but the following days he led them up to the
foot of the rifing ground where POMPEY was encamped ;
which daily augmented their fpirits. His cavalry be-
ing much inferior to POMPEY's in number, he obferved
his former difcipline, of mingling the ftouteft and moſt
active of the Antefignani amongſt them, who by daily
practice and ſkirmiſhes became expert in that way of com-
bat. Thus he rendered his cavalry fo hardy, that though
they were but one thoufand, they would upon occafion
fuftain the charge of POMPEY's feven thoufand, even in
open field, without being terrified at their numbers. For
feveral days they fkirmifhed with good fuccefs, and killed
one of the Savoyard brothers who deferted to POMPEY,
with feveral others of his party.
85, POMPEY having lodged himſelf upon a hill, formed
his army at the foot of it, expecting to draw CASAR into
a difadvantageous place. But CASAR, finding he could not
perfuade POMPEY to accept of battle, thought it the moft
convenient way to remove, and always be upon the march;
hoping his frequent decampings might furnifh him more
commodioufly with corn, and perhaps with an opportunity
of fighting; at leaft he was fure of harraffing POMPEY'S
army,
Book III.
313
COMMENTARIES.
WAR.
Cæfar de-
figns to de-
army, who were not inured to fo much fatigue. Moved CIVIL
by theſe reaſons, he gave the fign for decamping; but the
tents were no fooner ftruck, but it was obſerved, that
POMPEY, contrary to his uſual cuſtom, had drawn his le-
gions out at a farther diſtance from his camp, and ſeemed camp; but
to offer battle upon equal terms. Upon this CÆSAR ad-perceiving
Pompey had
dreffing himſelf to the foldiers, when the army was juft ready drawn out
to march out of their trenches, ſaid, "We muſt not think his forces,
of decamping at preſent, but of giving the enemy battle, does the like,
which we have ſo long defired; we fhall not eafily find ſuch
another opportunity as this again; let us therefore prepare
to engage them." This being faid, he immediately drew
out his forces.
armies.
86. POMPEY likewife, as was afterwards known, had
refolved to offer battle, in compliance with the repeated de-
fires of his friends. He had declared in council," He Pompey
boafts he will
would defeat CASAR's forces before both armies could en- defeat Cæfar
gage."
But obferving feveral could not conceive his without en-
meaning; "I am fenfible, faid he, that my promife almoft gaging both
exceeds belief; but I will give you my reaſons, that you
may fight with the more affurance. I have taken care our
horſe, when they approach the enemy, fhall flank their right
wing, and encloſe them behind: this they have promiſed to
perform, which muſt certainly diſorder them before the foot
can meet each other. Thus, added he, we ſhall decide the
difpute without hazarding the legions, and almoft without.
receiving a wound. Nor can there be any difficulty in the
defign, fince we are ſo much fuperior to them in cavalry.
Be ready therefore for the combat to-morrow, fince the
happy occafion you have ſo long wifhed for is come; and
behave yourſelves worthy of that opinion the world has of
your valour and experience."
Labienus's
87. Here ended POMPEY's fpeech, when LABIENUS, as
well to applaud his defign, as to difcredit CAESAR's army, fpeech,
began thus: "Think not, POMPEY, you are to engage
the conquerors of Gaul and Germany: I was prefent at
all thofe battles, and of my own certain knowledge can
affirm, there are but few of that army now remaining :
many have been killed, as muft of neceffity happen in fo
many conflicts; many were carried off by the plague in
Apulia; many have quitted their arms; and feveral are
left behind to guard Italy. Have you not been informed
that the cohorts at Brindifi conſiſt of invalids? and the
forces which you now behold, are compofed of new levies,
raifed in Lombardy, and the colonies beyond the Po. For
the
314
Book III.
C. J. CÆSAR'S
He fwears
never to re-
CIVIL the flower of CESAR's army fell in the two defeats at Du-
WAR. razzo." Having finiſhed what he had to fay, LABIENUS
took an oath never to return to the camp again, unleſs
victorious; and defired all the reft of the council might do
turn to the the like. POMPEY fo well approved the motion, that he
was the firſt who followed his example. Thus the council
broke up full of joy, and big with expectation; affuring
themſelves of victory, being perfuaded fo great a general
would not deliver his fentiments upon flight grounds, in an
affair of ſuch importance.
camp, unless
victorious.
tion of Pom-
pey's army.
CHA P. XXXI.
The difpofi- 88. CESAR approaching near POMPEY's camp, per-
ceived this to be the difpofition of his forces: The firſt
and third legions, which CÆSAR, at the beginning of the
wars, in obedience to the ſenate's decree, had delivered to
POMPEY, formed the left wing, where he himſelf com-
manded: SCIPIO was in the middle, with the Syrian le-
gions; and AFRANIUS in the right, with the Cilicians,
and the cohorts brought from Spain; which POMPEY
eſteemed his beſt troops: the reſt of his forces were dif-
poſed between the two wings, and middle ſquadron; a-
mounting to fifty-five thoufand men, or an hundred and
ten cohorts, befides two thouſand volunteers, which he
had diſperſed amongſt the whole army; for he had left his
other feven cohorts, to fecure his camp and the adjoining
forts. His right was defended by a river with fteep banks,
wherefore he had placed all his cavalry and archers in the
left.
Of Cæfar's.
89. CÆSAR, according to his former cuftom, difpofed
the tenth in the right wing, and the ninth legion in the
left, though confiderably weakened by the action at Du-
razzo; but he joined the eighth fo very cloſe to it, that
they were almoſt united into one, and had orders to relieve
each other. His whole army confifted of twenty-two thou-
fand men, or eighty cohorts; two being left behind to
guard his baggage. He gave the command of the left wing
to ANTONY, of the right to P. SULLA, and of the main
body to CN. DOMITIUS, pofting himfelf directly over-
againſt POMPEY. Having drawn his forces up in this or-
der, to prevent his right wing from being furrounded by
the enemy's horſe, he detached a cohort from every legion
in the third line, and of them compofed a fourth, to en-
gage the cavalry, giving them proper orders how to act,
and
1
املنار
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The Battle of Pharsalia
to face p. 314:
77
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}
ATHER
A. Pompey's Army, with his Right wing towards if River B. his Cavalry in the Left extending them-
felves inorder to Surround Caesars Right wing. C. Casars army. D. his Cavalry E. the six Cohorts
erved to oppose Pompey's horse.
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į
1
*
}
}
!
Book III.
315
COMMENTARIES.
and reminding them that the fuccefs of the day would de- C 1 VIL
pend on their courage. He commanded the whole army WAR.
not to begin the battle, till he fhould fee convenient to
give them the ſignal.
up; his
90. After he had encouraged his foldiers, as military dif- Cæfar's ar
cipline required, and laid before them the many favours my drawn
they had from time to time received at his hands; he told fpeech.
them, 66
They themselves could witnefs for him, how
earnestly he had fought a peace; how he had employed
VATINIUS to demand a conference, had ſent A. CLODIUS
to treat with SCIPIO, and how eagerly he had preſſed LI-
BO at Oricum, to admit deputies to pafs between them.
He had always been defirous to prevent the effufion of his
foldiers blood, and the lofs to the republick of either ar-
my." Having ended this fpeech, in compliance with the
ardent defire of the foldiers he commanded the trumpet to
found a charge.
CHAP.
XXXII.
Craftinus's
character
battle given.
91. IN CÆSAR's army was one CRASTINUS, a volun-
teer, a man of extraordinary courage, who the
year before
had been primiple of the tenth legion. So foon as the fig- and courage.
nal was given, "Follow me, cried he, you that were for- The fign of
merly under my command, and do your utmoft for the Craftinus
man you have chofen for your general: this battle once begins the
decided, he ſhall recover his dignity, and we our free-fight.
dom." Then looking back upon CÆSAR, "This day,
my general, added he, I will fo behave myſelf, that you
ſhall return me thanks alive or dead." Having faid this,
immediately he ruſhed from the right wing, attended by
an hundred and twenty felect men of the fame legion, who
voluntarily followed him, and began the fight.
The battle
Pompey or-
of Pharfalia.
Cefar's
92. Between the two armies was ſpace enough for both
to meet and attack each other; but POMPEY had enjoined
his men to receive our onfet, without ftirring out of their ders his men
poſts till our army fhould be difordered. This he did, to receive
upon C. TRIARIUS's advice, that the force of our firft ex charge with-
curfion being broken, and our army in confufion, they might out moving
attack us in good order, with the greater advantage: befides,
they thought our piles would do lefs execution ſɔ, than it
they advanced to meet them; flattering themſelves with
the hopes that our foldiers would be out of breath, and
wearied with running twice as far as ufual. But in my
opinion this was a very fhallow project, for there is a na-
4
tural
out of their
places.
316
C. J. CÆSAR'S
?
1
WAR.
Book III.
CIVIL tural ardor and alacrity of mind planted in every man,
which is roufed and inflamed with his zeal for the fight;
and ſhould not be fuppreffed, but rather encouraged by a
general: our ancestors therefore wifely ordained, that
trumpets fhould found on every fide, and all the foldiers
raife a fhout, as well to encourage their companions, as
daunt the enemy.
The battle
begins.
93. On the ſignal given, our men ruſhed forward with
their piles ready to be thrown; but obferving the enemy
did not advance to meet them, taught by experience in
former battles, they halted of their own accord about the
middle of the way, that they might not fpend their vigour
before it could be effectual; having allowed themſelves
reſpite enough to take breath, they renewed their courſe,
caft their piles, and immediately charged the enemy fword
in hand, as CÆSAR had commanded them. Nor did POM-
PEY's men betray want of preſence of mind upon this oc-
cafion, for they maintained their ranks, ſuſtained our charge,
received our piles, and having caft their own, had imme-
diately recourſe to their fwords.
At the fame inſtant all POMPEY's cavalry fallied from the
left, according to their orders, attended by the archers.
Our men, not being able to maintain their ground, re-
treated a few paces, which made the enemy purfué more
eagerly, dividing themſelves into feveral fquadrons, and
endeavouring to incloſe that extremity of our army. Which
CÆSAR obferving, gave the fourth line, which conſiſted of
fix cohorts, the appointed fignal: upon which they charged
Pompey's POMPEY's horſe fo vigorously, that they routed and obliged
cavalry bro-them to fly for refuge to the higheſt mountains. Their re-
treat left the archers and flingers defenceleſs and expofed
to the fury of our foldiers, who cut them to pieces; and
wing fur- purſuing their fuccefs, furrounded POMPEY's left wing,
and attacked his army in the rear, notwithſtanding all their
endeavours to prevent us.
ken.
His left
rounded.
94. At the fame inftant CESAR ordered the third line to
advance, which hitherto had had no ſhare in the action:
His whole thus the enemy were entirely routed; for our men being
army intire- relieved by fresh fupplies, and their army furrounded, they
could no longer maintain the difpute.
ly routed.
Nor was CÆSAR deceived in his opinion, that the co-
horts, which he difpofed in the fourth line against the
enemy's horſe, muſt make the firſt ſtep towards the victo-
ry, as he had publickly declared in his fpeech to them:
for they repulfed the cavalry, cut the archers and flingers
to
Book III.
317
COMMENTARIES.
retreats inte
to pieces, furrounded the enemy's left wing, and were the CIVIL
firſt that obliged them to fly. But POMPEY perceiving his WAR.
horſe was routed, and that part of his army which he moſt.
depended on difordered, defpairing of the reft, forthwith Pompey
retreated on horſeback into his camp. As he entered the the camp.
Prætorian port, he ſpoke aloud to the centurions who guard-
ed it, that the foldiers might hear, "To take particular
care to fecure the camp againſt all accidents which might
happen; that he would vifit all the other gates himſelf, and
diſtribute the like orders." Having ſaid this, he retired to
his pavillion, deſpairing of fuccefs, yet waiting the event.
CHA P. XXXIII.
95. POMPEY's foldiers thus obliged to retreat within
their trenches, CESAR allowed them no time to recover
their diforder, but encouraged his men to puſh their fortune,
and ftorm the camp; who, though greatly fatigued with
what they had already done, the fight having continued al-
moft till noon, yet chearfully obeyed his orders. The co-
horts, who were left to guard the camp, made a vigorous
refiftance; and the Thracians and barbarous allies did won-
ders. As to thoſe who had fled thither from the battle,
moſt of them, being weary and terrified, had laid down
their arms and enfigns, and were meditating rather their
eſcape than the defence of the trenches. At laft thoſe that
guarded the rampier being no longer able to ſtand the
fhowers of darts which our foldiers poured upon them, af-
ter receiving many wounds, quitted the camp, and under
the conduct of the tribunes and centurions, betook them-
felves to the higheft neighbouring mountains.
The luxury
96. Having forced the trenches, we found feveral tables
ſumptuouſly ſpread, fide-boards adorned with abundance of of Pompey's
plate, and the tents ftrewed with freſh herbs; that of L. LEN- camp.
TULUS, and fome,others, were ſhaded with ivy; ſeveral
other proofs of luxury, and too great afſurance of conqueſt,
appeared, from whence we may conclude they little dream-
ed of fuch ill fuccefs, who had taken ſo much care to pro-
vide for their appetites. Yet theſe very men had often
upbraided CÆSAR's army with excefs, which always want-
ed even ſome neceffaries.
When our men had got over the rampier, POMPEY
mounted his horfe, having laid afide all the diftinguishing capes to the
Pompey ef-
marks of a general, and fetting out from the decuman fea-fide.
port, galloped towards Lariffa, where he made no longer
itay
318
C. J. CÆSA R'S
$
Book III.
CIVIL ftay than to take freſh horfes, being attended only by thir-
WAR. ty followers that eſcaped the flaughter; from thence he
pofted day and night till he arrived at the fea, and em-
Complains barked in a tender; "Often complaining, how much he
of his caval- had been miftaken, in thoſe from whom he expected the
ry for decei-
victory, who beginning firft to fly, almoft perfuaded him
ving him.
he had been betrayed."
Cæfar hav-
the camp.
one to pur-
CHAP. XXXIV.
97. CESAR having rendered himſelf maſter of POM-
ing gained PEY's camp, begged of his foldiers not to be fo intent upon
the plunder, as to omit putting the laſt hand to the bufi-
nefs they granted his requeft, and according to his orders.
began to draw lines about the mountain, to which POM-
PEY's forces had retired. Which they perceiving, reflect-
ing that the place wanted water, quitted it, and haftened
divides his towards Lariffa. Whereupon CESAR, dividing his army
army into into three fquadrons, left one in POMPEY's camp, ano-
three parts, ther in his own, and went with four legions a nearer
fue, and one way, to intercept the enemy. Having marched about fix
to guard miles, he drew his forces up in order of battle; which
sach camp. they no fooner obferved, but they poffeffed themſelves of
a neighbouring hill, the foot of which was wafhed by a
river. CÆSAR, though his men had been fatigued all the
day, and night approached, encouraged them to cut off
the enemy's communication with the water, that they
might not have an opportunity of fetching any in the night.
When our works were perfected, they fent deputies to treat
of a furrender: but fome few fenators that were of their
party, efcaped by favour of the night.
Some of the
nemy's for-
render.
98. Early in the morning CAESAR commanded them
all to defcend from the hill, and deliver up their arms.
ces that had They immediately obeyed his orders, and proftrating them-
attempted to felves at his feet, with tears in their eyes, befought him
efcape, fur-
to grant them their lives. He comforted them, com-
manding them to rife; then faying fomething of his in-
clination to mercy, that he might give them immediate
hopes of it, he faved them all; ordering his foldiers neither
to plunder, nor do them any injury. This affair fo hap-
pily diſpatched, he fent for other legions to relieve thoſe he
had with him, whom he ordered to return to the camp
for refreſhment, and arrived the fame day at Lariſſa.
Arrives at
Lariffa.
In
Book III.
319
COMMENTARIES.
7
}
:
3
Cæfar loft
99. In this battle, on CÆSAR's fide, fell only two hundred CIVIL
foldiers, but he loft thirty centurions, men of fingular WAR.
courage. Here CRASTINUS likewife, fighting bravely,
loft his life, being run thro' the mouth with a ſword; nor only 200 in
did he falfify the promiſe he made CASAR, when he rufhed the battle,
into the battle; for he certainly behaved himſelf to ad- with thirty
ad-with
.centurions
miration, and gained as much applauſe as man could merit. and Crafti-
On POMPEY's fide were killed fifteen thouſand, and aboven
twenty-four thouſand were taken prifoners, for thoſe that were
left to guard the forts ſurrendered to SULLA; though many
eſcaped into the adjacent countries: a hundred and eighty
enfigns were brought to CESAR, befides nine eagles.
And L. DOMITIUS, whofe ftrength failed him as he was Domitius'
flying to the mountains, was killed by our cavalry.
CHA P. XXXV.
nus.
killed.
had done.
100. WHILST thefe affairs were tranfacting, D. LÆ-Lælius bloc-
LIUS arrived with his navy at Brindifi, and poffeffed him-kades Brin-
ſelf of the iſland at the mouth of the haven, as LIBO had difi, as Libo
formerly done. VATINIUS, governor of the place, fol-
lowing ANTONY's example, equipped feveral boats, and
having enticed fome of LELIUS's fhips within the haven, Vatinius
took a five banked gally, and two fmaller veffels that had takes three
of his ſhips.
ventured fartheft within the port: then difpofing his caval-
ry along the fhore, prevented the fleet from getting freſh
water. But LALIUS having choſen a more convenient
ſeaſon of the year for failing, fupplied his fhips with water
from Corfu and Durazzo; nor could he be perfuaded
to quit the blockade, by the difgrace of lofing his fhips, or
want of provifions, till he had notice of the battle of Phar-
falia.
Caffius with
IOI. About the fame time likewife CASSIUS came to
Sicily with a ſquadron of Syrian, Phoenician, and Cilician his ſquadron
fhips; where CESAR had a fleet commanded by P. SULPI-comes to
Sicily.
CIUS the prætor, and M. POMPONIUS; the firſt of theſe lay
at Vibone in the ftreights, the other at Meffina, where
CASSIUS arrived before POMPONIUS had notice of his com-
ing. Having furprized him in this diforder without any Burns 35 of
guards, he took the opportunity of the wind, and fent fe-Pomponius's
veral fire-fhips into the port where POMPONIUS's fleet lay, fhips at
which immediately burnt them all: they were thirty-five in Almoft fur-
number, amongſt which were twenty men of war. This prizes the
action ftruck ſuch a terror into Meffina, that though a le. town.
gion
Meffina.
320
C. J. CESAR'S
WAR.
From thence
he goes to
Vibone.
Book III.
CIVILgion was there in garriſon, the place had certainly furren-
dered, had not an account of the action in Theffaly oppor-
tunely arrived to encourage them. From hence CASSIUS
went to Vibone, where he found SULPICIUS's fleet hauled
on ſhore for fear of ſuch a misfortune; but the wind offer-
ing fair, he put the fame ftratagem in practice he had made
uſe of at Meffina, fending forty fire-fhips into the harbour,
the flame of which catching hold on both fides, quickly re-
Burns five of duced five gallies to afhes: the wind had already begun to
Sulpicius's
gallies, but difperfe the fire farther, when the veteran foldiers, who had
lofes four of been left in garrifon there for the recovery of their health, no
his own.
longer able to ſee fuch a diſgrace, embarked of their own ac-
cord, and weighing anchor, attacked CASSIUS's fleet fo fu-
riouſly, that they took two three-banked gallies, and as many
of the four-bank'd, in one of which latter was CASSIUS him-
On news of ſelf, but he made his eſcape in the boat. Not many days
Cæfar's vi- after, the news of CESAR's victory was ſo ſtrongly con-
&tory, quits
the place, firmed, that it met with credit even amongſt POMPEY'S
party; who before believed it a falſe report, ſpread abroad
by CESAR's friends or lieutenants; upon which CASSIUS
left Vibone.
Cæfar pur-
pey.
clamation
CHAP. XXXVI.
102. CÆSAR, laying all other thoughts afide, re-
fues Pom- folved to purſue POMPEY ſo cloſe, wherever he went, as not
to allow him time to levy new forces, and renew the war :
he marched, therefore, every day as far as his cavalry could
hold out, commanding one legion to follow after by leffer
Pompey if journeys. POMPEY iffued a proclamation at Amphipolis,
fues a pro- for raifing all the Grecians and citizens of Rome that
for raifing all were able to bear arms: but whether he did this the longer
the youth in to conceal his defign of flying, or that he might with theſe
Amphipolis.
new forces keep poffeffion of Macedonia, if he was not pur-
fued, is hard to determine. One night lying at anchor
at Amphipolis, he fent for his old friends and acquaintance,
of whom he borrowed money for his neceffary occafions:
and on notice of CESAR's approach, hoifted fail for Mi-
whence he tylene, where he arrived in a few days after. Here the
fails to Mi- wind detained him two days; but having encreaſed his fleet
tylene. with a few gallies, he failed to Cilicia, and from thence to
From thence Cyprus, where he had notice that the townſmen and Ro-
to Cyprus. man citizens at Antioch, by general confent, had feized
From
the caftle, being determined to defend the town againſt
him, and had fent orders to fuch of his party as had taken
refuge in the neighbouring countries, not to come near
Antioch
Book III.
321
COMMENTARIES.
Lentulus
Antioch at their peril. L. LENTULUS, who had been con- CIVIL
ful the year before, and PUB. LENTULUS, of no lefs dignity, WAR.
with ſome others, met the like reception at Rhodes, whi-
ther they followed POMPEY; for they no fooner landed, hut out of
but they were denied admittance, meffengers being fent to Rhodes.
bid them quit the ifland; which obliged them, much
againſt their wills, to weigh anchor for by this time cÆ-
SAR's purſuit was known amongſt all the countries round
about.
:
103. POMPEY, on thefe advices, altering his defign of
going to Syria, feized all the money he found in the publick
bank, borrowed as much more as he could of his acquaint-
ance, fent great quantities of iron on board for military
ufes, and having raiſed two thouſand foldiers amongſt the
publick officers of the place, merchants, fervants, and ſuch
other perfons as he thought fit for his purpoſe, went to
Pelufium. Here by accident, was king PTOLEMY, a Pompey fails
youth under age, at war then with his fifter CLEOPATRA, to Pelutium.
and encamped with a confiderable army near her, whom,
not many months before, by the affiftance of his friends
and relations, he had expelled the kingdom. POMPEY fent Demands
to demand his protection and affiftance, defiring to be ad- Ptolemy's
mitted into Alexandria, on account of the ancient friend-
ſhip which had fubfifted between him and the young king's
father. But his deputies having performed their com-
miffion, began to diſcourſe too freely with the king's fol-
diers, adviſing them alſo to affift their mafter, and not to
contemn the low ebb to which fortune had reduced him.
In PTOLEMY's army there were many who had formerly
ferved under POMPEY, whom GABINIUS had brought from
Syria to Alexandria, and, after the war was ended, left in
the late king's fervice.
protection.
104. PTOLEMY's friends, who were protectors of the Is invited on
kingdom during his minority, having notice of this, either fhore.
out of fear, as they afterwards declared, left POMPEY
ſhould corrupt the army, and render himſelf maſter of
Alexandria and Egypt; or, defpifing his low condition (for
generally friends turn enemies when fortune frowns) gave
the deputies a grateful anſwer in publick, ordering POM-
PEY to attend the king; but privately contrived to fend
ACHILLAS, captain of the king's guards, a man of fingular
boldness with SEPTIMIUS, tribune of the foldiers, to mur-
der him. They ſpoke him very fair; and POMPEY having
formerly known SEPTIMIUS, who commanded a company
under him in the war with the pirates, was eafily perfuaded
Y
to
322
Book III,
C. J. CÆSA R'S
CIVIL to go on board a ſmall veffel, with a flender attendance,
WAR. where he was killed by ACHILLAS and SEPTIMIUS. I
LENTULUS likewife being taken by the king's command,
was put to death in priſon.
CHAP.
XXXVII.
Diana'stem-
Strange pro-
Cæfar de-
por-
105. ON CÆSAR's arrival in Aſia, he found T. A Mª
Ampíus pre-
vented from PIUS had fummoned all the fenators in the province to at-
taking the tend him, that in their prefence he might take the money
treaſure of out of the temple of DIANA at Ephefus; but the news of
ple by Cr- CAESAR's approach interrupted his defign, and obliged him
far's arrival. to fly thus CESAR twice preferved the treaſure of DIA-
See $33.
NA. It was remarked in the temple of MINERVA at
digies that Elis, upon a juſt calculation of the time, that the very
happened fame day CAESAR defeated POMPEY, the image of victory,
the fame day which fronted MINERVA, turned her face towards the
feated Pom-tal of the temple. At the fame inftant ſuch a noiſe of
fighting and trumpets alarmed the inhabitants of Antioch in
Syria, that they repaired to their arms, and manned the
walls. The like happened at Ptolemais: and at Pergamus,
in the remote and hollow places of the temple, called
by the Grecians dura, where none, except the prieſts,
may enter, was heard the beating of drums. But in the
temple of Victory in Tralles, where a ftatue was confe
crated to CÆSAR, a palm had fprouted between the join-
ing of the ftones that paved the floor.
pey.
Cæfar fol-
andria.
106. CÆSAR, having ſtaid a few days in Afia, on advice
lows Pom- that POMPEY had been feen at Cyprus, imagining he might
pey to Alex-be gone from thence to Egypt, becauſe of the intereft he
had in that kingdom, and the advantage of the place, went
to Alexandria with two legions, one brought from Thef-
faly, the other detached from lieutenant FUSIUS's army
in Achaia; and eight hundred horfe, ten Rhodian gallies,
and a few from Afia. In thefe legions were not above
three thouſand two hundred men, the reft were either dif-
abled in the former actions, or fo fatigued with long
marches, they could not travel any farther. But CASAR
depending on the fame of his former exploits, made no
fcruple of embarking with fo ſmall an army, believing every
place would gladly receive him. At Alexandria he had
news of POMPEY's death: He was no fooner landed, but
news of his he heard a noife amongst the foldiers, whom PTOLEMY
had left to guard the town; and found himſelf ſurrounded
by a concourfe of people, who thought the king's authority
Hears the
death.
diminiſhed,
Book III.
323
COMMENTARIES.
diminiſhed, by CESAR'S having the a confular ax and bun- CIVIL
dle of rods carried before him. This tumult was foon ap- WAR.
peaſed; but there were other commotions amongſt the Infurrec-
people every day after; and many of CÆSAR's foldiers weretions in
murdered in ſeveral parts of the city.
107. This obliged him to fend for thoſe other legions
out of Afia, which he had levied amongſt the remainders of
POMPEY's army. But he was prevented failing from Alex-
andria himſelf by contrary winds.
*K
Alexandria,
* Called by
In the mean time, confidering the difpute between the them Ef
king and his fifter belonged to the jurifdiction of the peo-
ple of Rome, and to him as conful, and more particularly
as the fenate had entered into league with PTOLEMY the Cæfar fum
father during his former confulate, he gave the king and
CLEOPATRA to underſtand, they ought both to diſband opatra to at
their armies, and ſubmit their cauſe to his decifion, rather tend him.
than that of the ſword.
mons Ptole-
my and Cle-
Pothicus
andria.
108. POTHINUS the eunuch, governor to the infant, was fends to A-
entruſted with the adminiftration of affairs during his mi- chillas to
nority. He thinking it below the king to plead his caufe bring the ar-
before CESAR, firſt began to complain of the order; and my to Alex-
having raiſed a faction amongſt the council, fent privately
for the army from Pelufium to Alexandria; and having
conftituted ACHILLAS, whom we ſpoke of before, general
of the forces, engaged him by promifes both from himſelf
and the king, to execute fuch orders as fhould be fent him. The late
PTOLEMY the father, by his laft will had divided his king- king's wille
dom between the eldeſt of his two fons, and the eldeft of
his two daughters; and in the fame will conjured the peo-
ple of Rome, by all the gods and by the league between
them, to ſee his teftament performed. A duplicate of this
will he fent by his ambaffadors to Rome, that it might be
repofited in the treafury; which the confufion of the times
preventing, it was left with POMPEY: another copy
fealed up, was kept at Alexandria.
109. Whilft this affair was depending before CESAR,
and he doing all he could to compofe the differences be-
tween the two antagoniſts, on a fudden he was informed the
army was arrived at Alexandria. CESAR's forces were Achillas are
fo fmall, he could not run the hazard of a battle without the rives.
town; his buſineſs, therefore, was to contain himſelf with-
in the walls, to fecure the moſt convenient pofts, and
a The Egyptian prieſts had a prophecy, that when the ax and bundle of rods
entered Alexandria, their kings authority should ceale,
Y 2
there
$24
C. J. CÆSAR'S
Diofcorides
mand his
bufinels.
Book III.
CIVIL there get intelligence of ACHILLAS's defigns. However,
WAR. he commanded all the foldiers to repair to their arms; and
defired the king to fend fome perfons of the greateft au-
and Serapion thority about him, to demand what ACHILLAS meant.
fent to de- DIOSCORIDES and SERAPION, who had both been embaſſa-
dors at Rome, and in great credit with PTOLEMY the fa-
ther, were employed on this occafion. They no fooner
arrived in ACHILLAS's prefence, but, without ftaying to
hear their buſineſs, he commanded them to be ſeized and
One killed, murdered: one was killed on the ſpot, but the other, having
the other received a dangerous wound, was carried off for dead by
his attendants. Upon which CESAR endeavoured to get
PTOLEMY into his hands, thinking his name and title might
king into be of great authority amongſt the people; and that the
war would then appear the contrivance of a few villains
and malecontents, begun without the king's knowledge or
approbation.
wounded.
Cæfar gets
the young
his power.
An account
forces.
the Alexan-
army.
CHA P. XXXVIII.
110. THE forces under ACHILLAS'S Command were
of Achillas's not to be defpifed for want either of number, courage, or
experience. He had twenty thouſand men, part confifting
of GABINIUS's troops, who, by ſtaying fo long in the coun-
try, had forgot the Roman name and diſcipline: moſt of
them had married wives there, by whom they had children,
and were become perfect Egyptians in their licentious way
of living. To thefe were added many Buccaneers from
Syria, Cilicia, and the neighbouring countries, with feveral
The licen- outlaws and condemned perfons. For all our refugees were
tiouinefs of fure of reception, and entered into pay at Alexandria, im-
drian mediately upon giving in their names. If any of their com-
panions chanced to be apprehended by his mafter, all the
reft would reſcue him from juftice, knowing themſelves
in the fame condition. Thefe would often take
Thefe would often take upon them
to demand the heads of chief minifters, to plunder the rich
that they might encreaſe their pay, to beſiege the king in
his palace, to banifh fome, and fend for others home;
which liberties the Alexandrian army claims by preſcription.
Befides thefe forces, he had likewiſe two thouſand horſe,
veteran troops, perpetually inured to war; who reſtored
PTOLEMY the father to his kingdom, killed BIBULUS's
two fons, and put an end to the Egyptian war; fufficient
proofs of their experience.
Achillas on-
ters the
town.
111. Depending on this army, and defpifing the fmall
number of CÆSAR's troops, ACHILLAS entered Alexan-
dria,
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Alexandria non Sounderia
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DOM PARA VER
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E
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D
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A Alexandria B. the Kings Palace. C. the Theater adjoyning to it :D. the Island PharusẸ The narrow way that
Leyns it toy Town E. Casar saves his life by Inimming & The nine Rhodian ships in if Right wing Hight
of Pontus iny Left I. Caesars line of Reserve.K. 22 Egyptian ships in front. I. their ships of Reserve. M. their
Lefoer vessels and fireships N. the Merak in the South of Alexandria.. Carars works P, that side of the
shower posses d by Cesar. that by the Alexandrians.
Book III.
325
COMMENTARIES..
dria, and having ftormed that part of the city which was C 1 v 1 L
poffeffed by CÆSAR's foldiers, attempted to break into the WAR.
palace, where he himſelf had taken up his quarters: but Storms Cæ-
having difpofed his cohorts in the streets and avenues, he pre- far's quar-
vented his defign. At the fame inftant ACHILLAS like- ters; but is
wife attacked us from the fide next the fea; where the con- repulfed.
flict was long maintained with great obftinacy. The dif-
pute grew warm in feveral places at once, for the enemy
detached a ſtrong party to ſeize the fifty gallies which had
been fent to POMPEY's affiftance, and returned home again
after the battle of Pharfalia: moſt of theſe were three and
five-banked gallies well equipped: befides them were
twenty others in the port, which ſerved as a conftant guard
to Alexandria; and had ACHILLAS rendered himſelf
mafter of them and CÆSAR's fleet, the fea and haven be-
ing entirely his, he might have intercepted all our fupplies.
Theſe motives induced each party to exert themſelves ; The fight
they in hopes of a ſpeedy victory by gaining this one point; warmly
we for the fecurity of our lives. But fuccefs attended cÆ- Cæfar burns
SAR, and becauſe he was not able to defend fuch an ex- the Alexan-
tent with fo inconfiderable a number of forces, he fet the drian feet.
fhipping on fire, with all the veffels riding at anchor in
that road; then landed a party at Pharus.
J
maintained.
fcription.
112. This is a tower of a prodigious height, ftanding in Gains Pha-
an ifland from whence it takes its name, which, lying! rus: its de.
directly against Alexandria, forms a haven: former kings
have enlarged it nine hundred paces in length, by raifing
great mounts in the fea, and brought fo near Alexandria,
that they are joined together by a bridge. This ifland is
inhabited by Egyptians, who have built a town in it, and
live by plundering the fhips which are fo unfortunate as to be
thrown upon their coaft either by miſtake or tempeft. And
the entrance into the port is fo narrow, no veffel can put in
without leave from thofe that are mafters of the island.
cefs by fea,
fupplies.
CESAR therefore, confidering the importance of this Secures ac-
place, whilft the enemy were engaged in the affault, landed and fends to
his foldiers, took the tower, and put a garrifon there. the adjacent
Thus he fecured accefs by fea for fupplics of men and corn, itates for
having difpatched meffengers to all the adjacent states
for affiftance. In other parts of the town victory remain-
ing dubious, both parties gave over with equal lofs, the
narrowness of the pafles having enabled our men to main-
tain their ground: a few therefore being killed on both
fides, CESAR fecured the moft neceflary places, and for-
tified them in the night. In this quarter was contained a
Y 3
fmall
326
Book III.
C. J. CÆSA R'S, etc.
{
CIVIL fmall part of the king's palace, where CESAR had been
WAR. lodged upon his firft arrival, to which joined the theatre,
which ferved inftead of a fortrefs, commanding an avenue
his quarters, to the port and arfenal. The following days CASAR em-
ployed in enlarging his works, and building a wall, that hẹ
might not be obliged to fight againſt his will.
and fortifies
youngest
ing queen.
In the mean time PTOLEMY's youngest daughter, ho-
Ptolemy's ping the throne would be vacant, efcaped out of the palace
daughter to the army, where the joined ACHILLAS; but they
goes over to foon difagreed, which made well for the foldiers, whofe af-
Achillas, in fections were dearly bought by either party. Whilft theſe
hopes of be-
were the tranſactions of the camp, POTHINUS, the infant's
governor and protector of the kingdom, fent meffengers,
through CÆSAR's part of the town, advifing ACHILLAS to
go on with his enterprize, and not defpair of fuccefs; but
his courier being furprized, confeffed the defign; upon
Pothinus which CESAR put POTHINUS to death: and thus began
the Alexandrian war.
They
out.
killed,
2
HIRTIUS
*
1
HIRTIUS PANSA, or OPPIUS's
COMMENTARY
OF THE
ALEXANDRIAN WAR.
The CONTENTS.
The
The war continued. CÆSAR's fuccefs at fea. He
narrowly eſcapes by ſwimming. The king fet at
liberty, turns an enemy. An end of the war.
defeat of DOMITIUS CALVINUS. CASSIUS LON-
GINUS's extortions in Spain occafion an infurrec-
tion. The defeat of PHARNACES, and CESAR'S
return to Italy.
T
CHAP. I.
HE Alexandrian war declared, CESAR fent to
Rhodes, Syria, and Cilicia for his fleet; to Crete
for archers, and to MALCHUS, king of Nabathæa,
ALEX.
WAR.
the war.
for cavalry; not omitting to get engines, corn, and all Cæfar's pre-
kind of provifions. The works were daily encreaſed, and parations for
fuch parts of the town as appeared lefs tenable, were
ftrengthened with teftudo's and mantlets.
Holes were
made in the walls, to let the battering-rams through; and
whatever ground was laid wafte, or taken in by force,
he encompaffed within the fortifications. Alexandria is al-
moft proof againft fire, the houſes being built without Their man-
wood, and ftanding at a moderate diftance from each ner of build.
other; for the ftories are fupported by arches, and the roofs ing in Alex-
either tiled or plaiftered. CASAR left nothing unattempt-
Y 4
ed
andria,
1
328
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
ALEX. ed to encloſe the ſmalleſt part of the town within his lines,
which is divided from the reft by a morafs towards the
fouth; that his forces might not only lie more compact to-
gether, and relieve each other, when overpowered by the
enemy, with greater eafe, but be fupplied with water and
forage; both which the morafs abounded with, and they
extremely wanted, eſpecially the former.
The Alex-
andrians
prepara-
tions.
Moving
towers.
The indu-
tians.
4
2. In the mean time the Alexandrians were as bufy as CE-
SAR, for they fent deputies to raife forces in all parts of Egypt
and the neighbouring countries; they ſtored their magazines
with darts and engines, and fet numbers of hands on work to
make more; all their flaves that were fit for fervice, main-
tained at the richest citizens expence, were ordered to bear
arms. Theſe were employed to guard the remoteft parts of
the town; but the veteran cohorts were quartered in the moſt
fpacious places of the city, that, whatever fide was ſtorm-
ed, they might readily come to maintain it. All the ave-
nues and gates they fortified with a triple rampier, built
of fquare ftones, and raiſed compleatly forty foot high.
The lower parts of the town were fecured with turrets of
ten ftories; befides, they built feveral caftles upon wheels,
of an equal height with the former; and where the ſtreets
were even, drew them up and down with horſes, to what
part they thought convenient.
3. The city being rich and populous, furniſhed them.
with all materials they had occafion for. The inhabitants
were fo ingenious and acute, they made whatever they
ftry and in- faw us do, with fo much dilpatch, that we rather appeared to
genuity of imitate them, than they to copy after us: befides, their own
the Egyp-
fancy fupplied them with ſeveral machines; by which they
at once defended their own, and affaulted our fortifications.
The nobility were a fpur to the people's induftry, declaring
The noble at council, and in their harangues, "That_the_Romans,
mens argu- according to their ancient cuftom, were come to render
themſelves mafters, by degrees, of the country: that GA-
people to be BINIUS, not many years fince, was fent with an army into
Laborious. Egypt; that POMPEY retreated thither after his defeat ;
and CAESAR followed him with his forces, but did not
think fit to return though he heard of his rival's death;
therefore they might depend upon it, unleſs they immedi
ately expelled him their country, from a kingdom they
would find themfelves reduced to a province: for nothing
but the ſeaſon of the year prevented his receiving fupplies
from beyond fea."
ments to
prompt the
4. In the mean time, the miſunderſtanding between
ÀCHILLAS
"
COMMENTARIES.
329
ACHILLAS, who commanded the veteran army, and AR- AL E X..
SINOE, the king's younger fifter, daily encreaſed; each WAR.
laid wait for the other, ftriving to engrofs the fupreme au- Achillas
thority; but ARSINOE, by the affiſtance of her governor, killed by
the eunuch GANYMEDE, prevailed and killed ACHILLAS. Arfinoe.
After his death fhe ruled without a competitor, and con- She makes
ferred the command of the army upon GANYMEDE; who Ganymede
on his entry into that office advanced the foldiers pay, and general in
diſcharged all other parts of his duty with equal diligence.
CHA P. II.
his ftead.
5. THE greateft part of Alexandria is undermined, The aqua-
having aquædues that furnish private houſes with water ducts at A.
from the Nile, which, after it is fettled, becomes very from the
lexandria,
clear. This is preſerved for the uſe of the maſter and his Nile.
relations; for, when the water firft comes in, it is ſo thick
and muddy, it breeds feveral diftempers; however, the
fervants and meaner fort are forced to be contented with it,
fince there is not a fountain in all the city. The river lay
on that fide the town which was poffeffed by the Egyp-
tians; whence GANYMEDE was in hopes he might deprive Ganymede
our army of freſh water; who being diſtributed into ſeveral
ftreets, and quartered in private houſes, for the eaſier de- to deprive
fence of the works, made ufe of the water they found in the Romans
the drains and cifterns.
endeavours
of fresh wa-
ter.
Brings wa-
ter from the
6. His project being approved, he began a very difficult
and laborious taſk. Having ſtopped up the conduits which
were all in his poffeffion, and ſupplied our part of the fea to cor-
city, he drew great quantities of water out of the fea, by conduits.
rupt Cæfar's
the help of certain engines, to the higher ground; from
whence he continually poured it down into CÆSAR's aquæ- The Ro-
ducts. This immediately making the water falter than mans
uſual in the neareft houfes, occafioned great wonder a-furprized.
ftrangely
mongſt the ſoldiers, and enquiry concerning the reaſon of
it, who could hardly believe their fenfes, when they found
the cifterns fomething lower in the town ftill tafted as uſual :
it was common for them to compare them together, and
make obfervations on the difference between them. In a
little time the water in the upper ciſterns became ſo very falt,
it was impoffible to drink it; and that in the lower began
now to be infected with the fame brackish taſte.
7. This immediately convinced them of the reaſon, and
ftruck ſuch a fear into them, that they thought themfelves Defirous to
reduced to the laft extremities. Some wondered why
CÆSAR
quit the
pice.
330
C. J. CÆSAR'S
ALEX. CÆSAR delayed going on fhip-board, and others appre-
WAR. hended fomething worfe would follow, becauſe it was im-
poffible to conceal their retreat from the Alexandrians who
were fo nigh them, or to embark whilft they purfued for
there were feveral of the townſmen within CÆSAR's for-
tifications, whom he had permitted to ſtay in their houſes,
becauſe they openly pretended to be in his intereft, and
defert their fellow-citizens. But I fhall not throw away
my time in defending either their integrity or their conduct,
fince they who are acquainted with their country and tem-
per, know them to be the fitteft inftruments in the world
for treafon.
contrary.
"
8. CÆSAR took care to make his foldiers eafy, by com-
Crefar's forting and reaſoning the cafe with them. He affured
fpeech; he them that by digging wells they might eaſily procure ſweet
perfuades
them to the water, and that all fea- coafts naturally abounded with freſh
fprings; but ſhould the foil of Egypt be different from all
the world befides, they had no reaſon to defpair, fince the
fea was open; the enemy had no fleet to prevent their
fetching water either from Parætonium on the left, or
Pharus on the right; which places lying different ways,
the wind would perpetually ferve fair for one or other of
them. But as for retreating, that thought fhould not find
entertainment with fuch as had any refpect for their lives,
much lefs with thoſe who preferred their honour before any
other confiderations: for if they found it fo difficult with
all the aid of their works to repulfe the enemy, thoſe
once deferted, they muft not expect to be equal to them
either in advantage of fituation or in number. Befides,
going on board would be a work of delay and difficulty,
fince they must be obliged to get into the boats before
they could embark whereas the Alexandrians were very
nimble, underſtood the nature of the place and could take
advantage of the feveral edifices, and being fluſhed with
fuccefs, would certainly poffefs themfelves of every emi-
nence, annoy them from the tops of their houſes, and ef-
fectually prevent their retreat. Wherefore they muft lay
afide all defigns of that nature, and think of nothing but
the neceffity of conquering."
He com-
mands them
to fink
wells, and
they find
water.
9. Having encouraged his men by this harangue, he
commanded the centurions to employ the foldiers day and
night in finking wells, without fuffering any avocation to in-
terfere. The work begun, every one chearfully undertook
his fhare of the labour, and in one night's time was difco-
vered a fpring which furnished the army with plenty of freſh
water:
COMMENTARIES.
331
water fo eafily was the Alexandrian project, with all their ALEX.
Labour and machines, defeated!
CHA P. III.
WAR.
on the coaft
TWO days after, the thirty-feventh legion, part of The thirty-
POMPEY's troops that had furrendered themſelves, arrived feventh le-
gion arrives
on the African coafts, a little above Alexandria; whither
being fent by DOMITIUS CALVINUS, with corn, arms, of Africk.
darts, and engines, they were prevented from finiſhing their
voyage by an eafterly wind, that had continued feveral
days together; but the coafts thereabout are excellent good
for riding at anchor. They had now been detained a con- Send: Cæfar
fiderable time, and freſh water began to grow ſcarce;
word they
want water,
wherefore they fent a ſmall veffel to row againſt the wind, and
› and are de◄
and carry CÆSAR notice of their being there.
tained by
winds.
Cæfar em-
10. Without confulting any one but himſelf, he imme- contrary
diately hoifted fail, and commanded all the fleet to follow
him, leaving his land-forces behind, being not willing the barks to
works ſhould be naked during ſo long an abfence. When meet them,
he arrived at a Cherfonefus, he fent his failors on ſhore to
get freſh water ; ſome of theſe venturing too far within the
land for plunder, were taken by the enemy's horfe; who
learned from them that CESAR was on board, without any
foldiers. On this advice, they thought fortune had bleffed The enemy
them with an happy opportunity; wherefore they manned having no-
all the veffels they had ready equipped, and met CÆSAR as tice of his
he retured. But he declined fighting at that time, becauſe voyage, re-
he had no foldiers with him; and it being paft four in the tercept him.
afternoon, the approaching night would add confidence to Cæfar de-
clines fight-
the enemy, who were beft acquainted with the place; and ing.
he fhould want the common incentives to his men, when
neither valour nor cowardice could be diſtinguiſhed. Where-
fore he drew all his fhips to the fhore, where he imagined
the enemy would hardly follow him.
folve to in-
but reſcued.
11. But one Rhodian galley of his right wing ſtood out One Rho-
at fome diftance from the reft. The enemy obferving dian galley
this, could not contain themſelves any longer, but imme- attacked,
diately detached four large fhips, with ſeveral ſmaller veſ-
fels, to attack her. Which obliged CESAR to fend her
affiftance, to prevent fo great a difgrace as the lofs of one
of his gallies within his own view; though, if ſhe had fallen
a This is neither the Taurica, Cimbrica, nor Græca Cherfonefus; nor to
be fouud in any geographer but PTOLEMY. liv. c. 5. fituated near Alexan-
dria to the east,
a prey
332
C. J. CÆSA R'S
1
WAR.
ALEX. a prey to the enemy, it was no more than fhe had brought
on herſelf by her temerity. Thus the fight began, and the
Rhodians bore brifkly up to the enemy; for as they were
noted for their valour and experience in fea engage-
ments, they now willingly endured the burthen of the day,
that it might not be reported the Romans had fuffered by
The enemy their mifinanagement. In fine, we got the better, took a
engaged and four-banked galley, and funk another, after having killed
all the men on board: we made a great flaughter likewiſe
amongſt the foldiers that were in the other gallies, and had
not night protected them, ſhould have taken all their flect.
Whilſt the enemy were furprized with this difaſter, the
fafe with his wind blowing gently, CESAR towed his tranſports with
transports to his gallies to Alexandria.
defeated,
Cæfar gets
Alexandria,
tians repair
CHA P. IV.
12. THE Egyptians were fo terrified at this defeat,
finding themſelves not only out-done in the courage of their
foldiers, but experience of their pilots, that they imme-
diately repaired to the higher ground, to the tops of their
houſes, and made blockades to defend them: for they were
apprehenſive of being attacked by our fleet, even at land.
But GANYMEDE, having encouraged them, by promiſing
in council he would not only restore the veffels they had
The Egyp- loft, but encreaſe their number, they began with great
their fleet. hope and chearfulneſs to repair their old fhips, and to put
their marine in a good condition; not difcouraged in the
leaft with the lofs of above a hundred and ten gallies in
their ports and arfenal. For they knew, if they became
mafters of the fea, they could eafily intercept all CÆSAR'S
fupplies. Sailors, of whom there was plenty about Alex-
Their indu- andria and the adjacent coafts, and who had been brought
up to the fea from their infancy, chearfully lifted them-
felves for their country's fervice: remembering what ex-
ploits they had formerly done, even with their little ſhips,
they fet all hands on work towards equipping the fleet.
stry.
13. All the veffels that uſe to receive toll at the feven
mouths of the Nile, were recalled to Alexandria; the old
gallics, which had long been laid up in the king's private
arfenals, were refitted; and finding they wanted oars,
they made ufe of planks, pulled off from the portico's,
b Here is fomething wanting in the original, and to me the text likewiſe
appears corrupt this I fuppofe to be the meaning of the author; but I leave
every one to make ufe of his own opinion,
*
ſchools,
COMMENTARIES.
333
WAR.
Their expe-
fchools, and publick buildings, to ſerve the preſent occa、 A L E X.
fion for they knew they were not going a long voyage,
:
being to engage almoſt in the haven. Thus their natural
genius fupplied their neceffities. In a very few days, be-
dition, and
yond expectation, they had equipped two and twenty four- number of
bank'd and five-bank'd gallies, with feveral fmaller veffels. their fhips.
They tried in the haven how well they could row; and
having put a fufficient number of marines on board, pre-
pared themſelves for the engagement. CESAR had nine Cæfar's
Rhodian gallies (for of ten which the iſlanders fent him,
one foundered on the Egyptian coaft) eight from Pontus,
five from Lycia, and twelve from Aſia: but amongſt theſe
he had only five gallies with five banks of oars, and ten
with four; all the reft were ſmaller ſhips, and moſt of them
without decks: however, depending on the courage of his
foldiers, and having already tried the enemy's forces, he
refolved to give them battle.
fleet.
14. Thus both natives promifing themfelves fuccefs, put Both feets
out to fea: CESAR failing round Pharus, drew his gallies drawn up.
up over-againſt the enemy in this order. He placed the Calar's.
Rhodian ſquadron in the right, that of Pontus in the left,
about four hundred paces diſtant from the other, that they
might have room enough to tack about: in a fecond line
behind thefe he difpofed the rest of his fhips for a referve,
giving each of them orders to attend and relieve fuch par-
ticular gallies. The Alexandrians, who left the port with The Egyp-
no leſs affurance, difpofed two and twenty gallies in the tians fleet.
line of battle, placing the reft behind: but befides thefe,
they had a great many boats and fmaller veffels to carry
fire and * arrows loaden with combuftible matter, that
burnt whatever they fixed to; defigning by their number,
noife, and flames, to ftrike a terror into our gallies
tween both navies on the African fide (for half of Alex-
andria is in Africk) were certain flats, and each expected
a confiderable time whether ſhould paſs them firft; becauſe
they who came over them, would find it a difficult mat-
ter to retreat again when they defired it.
Be-
* Malleoli.
15. EUPHRANOR was admiral of the Rhodian ſqua-
dron, who for his greatnefs of mind deferved rather to be
ranked amongſt the Romans than the Grecians; and had de-
fervedly been conftituted admiral for his courage and experi-
ence. He, perceiving CAESAR's defign, faid; "You feem Euphranor's
apprehenſive, Sir, that if you croſs the fhallows first, you fpeech to
will be obliged to engage the enemy before the rest of the Caefar.
fleet comes up to your affiftance. Commit that affair
to
334
C. J. CÆSAR'S
The dexte-
ALEX. to my charge, I will fuftain their attack till the other gal-
WAR. lies get over, and fhew you, my countrymen deſerve your
good opinion: for we can no longer endure the difgrace of
being thus infulted by the Egyptians." CASAR having ap-
He begins plauded and encouraged his defign, gave the fignal. So
the fight. foon as the four Rhodian gallies had paffed the flats, they
were furrounded by the Alexandrians, who attacked
them with great fury; but they quickly extricated them-
felves, and were ſo very dextrous, that notwithſtand-
rity of the ing the diſparity of number, they loft not an oar, never
Rhodians. giving the enemy an opportunity of driving down athwart
them, but always receiving them on their beaks: by
this time the reft followed after, and the place being nar-
row, art was obliged to give place to courage. All the
Alexandrians, and our foldiers who were left behind to
guard the fortifications, attending with great impatience
the fuccefs of the day, mounted to the tops of the higheſt
houſes, that commanded thé fartheſt proſpect, where both
fides earneſtly befought the gods for victory.
16. But the battle was very unequal, for a defeat would
have deprived us of all hopes of retreating either by fea or
land ; and on the other hand, a victory could fecure us no-
thing: whereas, had fuccefs attended their fleet, they had
been entire maſters of all; and though they were defeated,
they had it ftill in their power to try their future fortune.
Add to this the hardship of fo many perfons fafety de-
pending on fo few, whofe want of courage muſt have
proved fatal to thofe, who had not the liberty of fighting
for themfelves. Theſe arguments CESAR had urged fome
days before, that they might maintain the fight with greater
valour, fince the lives of their companions were committed
to their charge; and each private foldier, following his
example, conjured his comrade to behave himſelf worthy
of the truft repofed in him, by thoſe who ventured the fate
of a battle upon his courage. Spurred by fuch powerful
motives, they fought fo bravely, that neither the enemy's
numbers nor experience availed them any thing; nor could
fo great a multitude produce men enough to equal ours in
valour. In this battle we took a five-banked and a two-
Cæfar gets
the victory, banked galley, with all the foldiers and failors on board, and
takes two funk three others, without the loſs of a fingle veſſel. The
fhips, finks reft efcaped to the town, being fheltered by the mole and
three.
forts, which hindered our purfuit.
CHAP,
1
COMMENTARIES.
335
CHAP. V.
Cæfar at-
17. TO prevent the like inconvenience for the future, AL E X.
CÆSAR thought it of great importance to render himfelf WAR.
mafter both of the mole and ifland: the greateft part of his
works being already finiſhed, he believed his forces were tacks the
fufficient to maintain their ground, and affault the iſle. mole;
Having refolved upon the attempt, he ordered ten cohorts,
with fome ſelect light-armed cavalry of Gaul, to embark
in boats and ſmall veffels; and at the fame time, to di-
vide the enemy's forces, attacked the iſland on the other
fide with his gallies; promifing great rewards to him that
firſt obtained the land. At first the Egyptians returned our
affault with equal fury; for the fame inftant they caft darts
upon us from the tops of their houſes, they likewife main-
tained the ſhore; which being ſteep, our foldiers could not
eafily afcend it. In the mean time they dexterously de-
fended the entrance to the port, by the affiftance of their
boats, and five gallies. But the coaft being fathomed,
and the fhallows difcovered, a few of our men recovered
the fhore; they were immediately followed by others, routs the
Pharians,
who vigorously charged the iſlanders that ftood upon the
higher ground, and routed them. Theſe being put to inland,
Aight, the reft no longer troubled themſelves to ſecure the
haven, but quitting their gallies, haftened to the town to
defend their houfes.
gains the
and the
town,
18. Nor were they able long to fecure their fortifica-
tions, though their turrets (if we may compare ſmall
things with greater) refembled thofe of Alexandria; and
being joined together, fupplied the want of a wall. Our
foldiers had neither fcaling-ladders, nor any other things
neceffary for an affault; but fear, which often deprives
men both of their fenfes and limbs, fo infatuated the ene-
my, that they, who but the moment before thought them-
felves an equal match for us upon the even ground, being
terrified with their flight, did not think themſelves now fe-
cure on the tops of their houſes thirty foot high; but de-
fcending to the mole, plunged into the fea, and fwam Several ta
eight hundred paces to the town. However, feveral were
taken and killed, but the number of the prifoners did not Cæfar forti-
amount to above fix hundred.
ken and
killed.
fies the ca-
ftle at the
19. CÆSAR having given the foldiers free leave to plun- foot of the
der, commanded the houſes to be levelled, but fortified the bridge psara
saftle at the foot of the bridge which was neareſt Pharus,
4
and
eft Pharus ;
attacks the
other.
336
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
ALEX. and placed a garrifon in it. Thus the Pharians deferted
WAR. their quarters; but the ſtrongeſt part of the bridge was ſtill
Gains the
poffeffed by the Alexandrians. This CESAR likewife af
faulted the day after, knowing when he had obtained
them both, he ſhould effectually prevent all excurfions and
furprizes. He quickly cleared the fhore of the enemy,
by the darts and engines from on board, obliging them to
retreat into the town; and having landed about three co-
horts (for the place was fo narrow it would contain no
fhore, ftops more) the reft were left behind to guard his fhips. Hav-
an arch up ing gained the fhore, he commanded that part of the bridge
unde, the which was next the enemy to be fecured by a rampier, and
bridge, and
the arch to be ſtopped up with ftones, where their veffels
throw up a uſually got out. His orders were fo well performed, that
not a cock-boat could get through; and the other part of
the work was already begun, when all the Alexandrian
All the ene-forces fallied out of the town, and pofted themſelves in an
fally from open place oppofite to the bridge, attacking the mole at
the fame inftant, from on board the vellels which they
to attack the uſually fent through the arches to burn our tranſports.
Thus they affaulted us in their fhips, and from the platform:
we from the bridge and mole returned their charge.
begins to
ram pier.
my's forces
the town,
Romans
likewife
from on'
board.
men come
ed, and oc-
caſion the
A
20. Whilft CESAR was employed in encouraging his
men, and diftributing the neceffary orders, feveral of the
Several of rowers and failors leaped on fhore, fome out of curioſity,
Cæfar's fea-others to defend the place. At first they repulfed the ene-
on fhore, at my's veffels from the mole with ftones and flings, doing
first make great execution at the fame inftant with their darts.
the enemy few of the Alexandrians ventured to land at a fmall di-
retreat;
ftance from that poft, defigning to attack our men on the
flank; but as they made a diforderly fally, obferving nei-
ther ranks nor files, fo they now began to retreat to their
but are rout- gallies with the utmoft precipitation. Provoked at this,
more of them made a deſcent from their fhips, and attack-
ed our 'men thrown into diſorder by the eagerness of the
purfuit; upon which, thofe we had on board the gallies
hauled up the ladders immediately, and put off from ſhore,
to prevent the enemy's boarding them. The three cohorts
great contu- pofted on the bridge and the mole, terrified with the noiſe
behind them, ſeeing their party routed, and themſelves
plyed with fhowers of darts, apprehended they ſhould be
furrounded, and have their retreat cut off by the depar-
ture of the ſhips; wherefore they quitted the
Some veffels retired as faft as they could towards the gallies.
overloiden ting on board the neareft veffels, overloaded
lofs of the
place.
Cæfar's fol-
diers fly with
Lion.
and funk.
works, and
Some get-
and funk
them;
COMMENTARIES.
337
them; others difputing with themſelves, whether they ALEX.
fhould maintain their ground or no, were cut to pieces by WAR.
the Alexandrians: fome had the good fortune to preferve
their lives, by getting into empty veffels that rode at an-
chor; others by the affiftance of their fhields and their re-
folute bravery reached the neareſt gallies.
21. CESAR, who ſhared with his foldiers in the danger
of this enterprize, did his utmoft endeavour to ftop their
flight from the bridge and fortifications; but finding the
reft were gone, he likewife retreated to his galley. He was
followed by fuch a crowd, that the failors had neither room
to work, nor thruſt the veſſel from fhore; whereupon cÆ-
SAR, fufpecting what afterwards happened, flung himſelf Cæfar
into the fea, and fwam to another fhip further off: from elcapes by
thence he fent feveral boats to the affiftance of his men, fwimming.
and preſerved fome; but the veffel itſelf with moſt of thoſe
on board. was funk. In this action we loft about four hun-
dred legionary foldiers, of failors and rowers fomething dred in this
above that number. The Alexandrians having gained their action.
point, fortified the caftle with ſtrong works and engines,
pulled out the ftones from under the arch, and made the
paffage clear as formerly.
CHAP.
VI.
с
Cæfar loft
eight hun-
mans cou-
rage.
22. OUR foldiers were fo far from being difcouraged The Ro
by their late misfortune, that it only ſerved them for a ſpur
to affault the enemy's works with greater vigour; and in
their daily fkirmishes they were fuccefsful, taking many
of the Alexandrians prifoners. In fine, they were fo eager
to regain their credit, that CESAR's edict to the contrary
could not put a stop to their labour or defire of fighting;
whence it plainly appeared, the legions had more occafion
to be reftrained from the moft dangerous enterprizes than
excited to embark in them.
The Alex-
23. The Alexandrians perceiving nothing could daunt
the Romans, that fuccefs confirmed their refolutions, and andrians de
ill fortune ſerved but to quicken their revenge; prompted, fire their
as we imagine, by the king's officers that were in CÆSAR's king's liber-
quarters, or of their own motion, which was privately ratifi-
ed by the king, fent embaffadors to CESAR deliring he would
grant their king his liberty, and fuffer him to come to
his people, who were all ready to obey his royal plea-
The text in this place is fo corrupt, all we can do is to guefs at the au-
thor's meaning.
Z
ſure,
ty.
}
338
C. J. CÆSA R'S
ALEX. fure, being wearied out under the government of a girl,
WA R. in fubmitting to delegated power and the infufferable ty-
ranny of GANYMEDE. Should his majefty think fit to
conclude a peace with CESAR, no apprehenfions whatever
would prevent their acquiefcing in his commands.
Their diffi-
mulation.
their re-
quest, and
why.
at parting.
24. Though CÆSAR knew the Egyptians to be a deceit-
ful people, who always talked of one thing whilft they
meant another; yet he thought it convenient to grant their
Cæfar grants requeſt. For if they defigned to perform their promife, he
believed the king would fecure their fidelity to the Ro-
mans but if they only wanted a prince to head their ar-
my, which feemed more agreeable to their temper, he
efteemed it abundantly more glorious and honourable to
wage war againſt a crowned head, than banditti and vaga-
His fpeech bonds. Having therefore exhorted the young prince, "To
to Ptolemy confult the intereft of his hereditary kingdom, and to fpare
fo famous a country, which had already fuffered too much
by fire and defolation; to bring his fubjects first to have
right ſentiments, and then to adhere to them; to preſerve
faith with the people of Rome, fince CESAR had repofed
fo entire a confidence in him, as to reftore him with royal
authority over thofe who were actually in arms againſt
him;" he gave him his hand, and difmiffed the youth
now almoſt at age. But he, whoſe mind had already been
imbued with fallacious principles, that he might not dege-
nerate from the nature of his country, with tears in
his eyes "defired he might not go, protefting empire was
not fo dear to him as CESAR's prefence." Who, being
moved to behold the boy's concern, dried up his tears,
telling him, If fuch was his defire, they might quickly
He makes meet again; and ſo ſent him away. But PTOLEMY,
Ptolemy's
diffimula-
tion.
war upon
Cæfar.
like
a racer juſt ſtarted from the barrier which with-held him,
enter'd into warlike meaſures againſt CÆSAR fo furiouſly,
that the tears he ſhed feemed to have been thoſe of joy.
Several of CÆSAR'S lieutenants, friends, centurions and
foldiers, were well enough pleaſed, that his eafy temper
had been impoſed on by fo early an impoftor: not confi-
dering CÆSAR had been induced to let him go, upon prin-
ciples of wiſdom and policy, as well as from the dictates of
good-nature.
25. The Alexandrians, having now got the general they
defired, found not their affairs in a better pofture than
before contrary to their expectations, they had the mif-
fortune to fee nothing done, whilft the foldiers defpifed the
king's age and weakneſs; and news arrived of confiderable-
fupplies,
COMMENTARIES.
339
Cæfar fends
them.
fupplies, that were marching by land from Syria and Cili- A L E X.
cia to CÆSAR's affiftance, which he himſelf as yet knew WAR.
nothing of. In the mean while, they refolved to intercept
The Egyp
thoſe provifions which were coming by fea; therefore, tians defign
having equipped a fleet for this purpoſe, they difpofed their to intercept
fhips in convenient places, near Canopus, to attend the Cæfar's con-
arrival of our convoy. CASAR, upon notice of their voys.
defign, gave orders his fleet ſhould immediately put out to his fleet to
fea; conftituting TIBERIUS NERO admiral, who was disappoint
attended by EUPHRANOR and his Rhodian gallies, with-
out whom there had been no engagement, and none which
was not attended with fuccefs. But Fortune, who frequent-
ly reſerves thofe to harder deſtiny, on whom ſhe has be-
ftowed many favours, now forfook EUPHRANOR. When
our fleet arrived at Canopus, and both navies were drawn
up in order of battle, according to his ufual cuftom, he began
the engagement, and having ſplit a three-banked galley of
the enemy's, funk her; but purfuing another too far, and the
reft of his fquadron following but flowly, he was furrounded
by the Alexandrians. No galley came up to his relief,
either believing his courage and felicity would protect him,
or fearing to venture fo far themſelves. Thus the only Euphranor
dies bravely,
man that behaved himſelf well in this action, periſhed with
his victorious galley.
CHAP.
VII.
Var. 707.
arrived at
ftorm.
26. WHILST theſe affairs were in agitation, MITHRI- Per. Jul.
DATES of Pergamus, defcended from a noble family, 4667. U. C,
equally renowned for his courage, conduct, fidelity, and
the place he poffeffed in CÆSAR's favour, who had been
fent, at the beginning of the Alexandrian war, to raiſe
forces in Syria and Cilicia, was arrived by land at Pelufium, M itht
where Syria and Egypt join, with a confiderable army, Pelufium;
which by his own diligence, and the affection of the coun- which he
try he had foon levied. This town ACHILLAS had for- takes by
tified with a ſtrong garrifon, being a place of great import-
ance for all Egypt is guarded towards the ſea by Pharus,
and at land by Pelufium. However, MITHRIDATES
ftormed it, notwithſtanding all the refolute defence the
befieged could make; his army was fo great, he ftill de-
tached freſh men to relieve the faint and wounded; ſo that
by continuing the affault without intermiffion, he carried
the place the fame day he fat
a garriſon there of his own.
:
down before it, and planted Marches to
After this fucceſs he marched wards Alex-
Z 2
towards andria,
340
C. J. CESAR'S
ALEX. towards Alexandria to join CASAR, taking in all the cour
WAR. tries by the way, and making them declare for CÆSAR;
by virtue of that authority which generally attends the con-
called fo.
queror.
27.
The moſt confiderable town in thoſe parts, at no
Delta, why great diſtance from Alexandria, is Delta, which borrows its
name from the fimilitude of its form to the Grecian let-
ter: For here a branch of the river Nile divides itſelf into
two ſeveral ſtreams, which, feparating by degrees, run at
a confiderable diſtance from each other before they difem-
Ptolemy bogue themſelves into the fea. PTOLEMY having notice
fends a party of MITHRIDATES's approach to this place, and knowing
to stop his he muft of neceffity pafs the river there, fent a confider-
paffage,
able army to oppofe him, hoping to defeat, or at leaſt to
put a stop to his journey: the former of theſe would have
compleated his wifhes; but he would gain his end if he
could prevent MITHRIDATES from joining CÆSAR.
Part of the king's forces having paffed the river, made
what hafte they could to engage him, that they might en-
grofs the glory of the victory to themfelves: but MITHRI-
DATES wifely ſuſtained their charge by the affiftance of a
rampier, having fortified his camp after the Roman man-
ner; and perceiving they affaulted his works too rafhly,
he fallied out, and made a great flaughter amongſt them. And
but they are had not their knowledge of the country, and the veffels
put to flight. they crofled the river in, protected them, they had been
entirely defeated. However, having retreated a little way,
A fecond at- they joined the reft of the army, and began a ſecond time
to ftorm the trenches of MITHRIDATES.
tempt to
ftorm his
trenches.
Frole ny
er.camped.j
28. Whereupon he diſpatched a courier to CÆSAR, with
an account of the action: PTOLEMY likewife had notice
of it from his forces; fo that both he and CAESAR fet out
almoſt the fame inftant, one to oppofe, the other to relieve
MITHRIDATES. The king took the fhorter cut by the
river Nile, on which he had a confiderable navy ready
fitted out. But CÆSAR, to avoid engaging him in his paf-
fage, failed by the African fhore, and joined the victorious
MITHRIDATES before the king's army arrived.
PTOLEMY had encamped in a place well fortified by
nature; it was a rifing ground furrounded by a plain, and
fecured on three feveral fides by different fences, the Nile,
a mountain, and a morafs.
29. Between this place and CAESAR's rout, about feven
miles diftant from PTOLEMY's quarters, ran a narrow ri-
ver with very fteep banks, which diſcharged itſelf into the
Nile:
COMMENTARIES.
341
a branch of
Nile the king, upon notice that CÆSAR was marching A L E X.
that way, detached all his cavalry, with the choiceft light- WAR.
armed foot, to oppoſe his croffing the river, and engage He fends his
him at a distance to advantage. Here courage had no op- cavalry to
portunity to exert itfelf, nor cowardice to betray its weak- oppofe Cæ-
nefs; but our men, enraged to have their paffage fo long far, paffing
retarded by the Alexandrians, whilft the German horſe the Nile;
were finding out fords, a party of them fwam croſs the
river, where the banks were eafieft of afcent; and the le-
gionary foldiers having cut down great trees which extend-
ed from one fide to the other, laying them along ftrewed
faſcines upon them, and croffed the river. The enemy
were afraid of receiving their charge, and immediately fled;
but in vain, for few efcaped the flaughter to carry the
king news of the action.
defeats
camp.
great lofs on
his fide,
ร
30. After fo fortunate an event, CESAR thinking his but Cæfar
fudden arrival might ſtrike a terror into the Alexandrians, them.
pufbed his fuccefs, and marched directly to PTOLEMY's Marches të
camp. But perceiving the place fo well defended by art Ptolemy's
and nature, that the enemy's rampier was guarded by a nu-
merous party, and his own foldiers fatigued with their jour-
ney and late engagement, he did not think convenient to
attempt their trenches, but encamped at a moderate di-
ſtance. The day after he affaulted one of the king's caftles Storms a
in a village not far off, from whence there was a line of caftle with
communication to their camp: this place CESAR ſtormed
with all his forces, not becauſe he thought a lefs number
was not ſufficient to gain it; but that, whilft the Alex-
andrians were terrified and in confufion, he might from
thence march directly to the king's camp: fo that as
the enemy retreated within their lines towards the camp,
our men followed them by the fame direction. We had
acceſs to this caſtle two ways, one by the plain mentioned
before, the other by a narrow país between their camp and
the Nile. The fide eafieft to come at was defended by
the flower of the Alexandrian army; but the enemy wound-
ed and repulfed our men with greateſt fuccefs on the part
towards the Nile. Here we were furrounded by ſhowers
of darts from every fide, and galled both from the rampier
and the river; where feveral veffels lay with flingers and
archers on board.
31. CESAR perceived his foldiers did their utmoft to no
purpoſe, whilft they laboured under fo many difadvantages;
but obferving the higheft part of the enemy's camp was
left unguarded, becauſe they thought it fufficiently fortified
Z 3
by
342
C. J. CÆSA R'S
Carfulenus
of the ene-
A LE X. by nature (for moſt of their forces were come to the place
WAR. of action, either to behold or fhare the engagement) he
detached a party under the command of CARSULENUS, an
detached to officer of equal conduct and courage, with orders to take a
ftorm the circuit round and afcend the hill. When our men got
highest part thither, they found but few of the enemy upon the place,
my's camp; whom they attacked very vigorously: the Alexandrians,
furprized to hear the noife of fighting behind them, began
to fly; fo that almoſt at the fame inftant we forced their
camp on every ſide: but CARSULENUS's party entered firſt,
and pouring down from the higher ground, made a dread-
The Egyp-ful flaughter amongst them; while others, to avoid the
tians entirely like fate, flung themſelves headlong in whole troops to-
which he
forces.
routed.
gether over that fide of the rampier which was next the
river; the foremoſt of whom, killed with their fall in the
ditch, furniſhed an eaſy paffage for thoſe that came after.
The king, during this confufion, got on fhip-board; but
Board; but the veffel, being overloaden, was caft away.
Ptolemy
gets on
the veſſel is
funk.
Cæfar
32. After this fuccefs, CASAR, depending on the fame
of his victory, marched the neareſt way by land to Alex-
marches to andria with his cavalry, and entered that part of the town
Alexandria. which was in the enemy's poffeffion. Nor did his opinion
deceive him, that on the news of this defeat they would
no longer think of war; for on his arrival he received the
The townf- reward due to his bravery and elevation of foul. The Alex-
men come andrians, having quitted their works, and thrown away
him like their arms, came out, arrayed like fuppliants, to meet
fuppliants, him, and deliver themſelves up to his mercy, bringing
out to meet
younger bro-
along with them all thofe facred implements with which
they uſed to appeaſe their own angry monarchs. He for-
gave and comforted them; then entered through their works
into his own quarters; where his foldiers congratulated his
fafe return, and happy decifion of the war.
He performs
33. CESAR, having thus.rendered himſelf maſter of A-
Ptolemy the
father's will, lexandria and Egypt, took care to ſee PTOLEMY's will per-
formed; who had conjured the Romans to be the guardians
Cleopatra of it; for, the elder of the king's two fons being dead,
and her he now divided the kingdom between the younger, and
ther confti- CLEOPATRA the elder of the two daughters, who had
tuted king continued faithful to the people of Rome, and taken
and queen.
refuge during the war in his fortifications. But to pre-
vent new commotions, before theſe princes fhould be
fettled in their thrones, he banished ARSINOE, under
army to pro- whofe name GANYMEDE had fo long bore tyrannical ſway.
tect them. He took the fixth veteran legion away with him, leaving
the rest of his forces to keep the kingdom in obedience to
Leaves an
the
:
J
COMMENTARIES.
343
the new partners of the crown, who had the leſs of their AL E X•
ſubjects affections, becauſe they were friends to CESAR, WA Ṛ.
and leſs power, becauſe time had not yet matured their au-
thority. It was for our advantage to protect them fo long as
they obferved their league with the Romans; and the fol-
diers left behind were able to reſtrain them from being un- Marches to
grateful, if they defigned it. Thus having fettled the king- Syria.
dom, CÆSAR marched by land to Syria.
CHAP. VIII.
Deiotarus
againſt Phar.
34. DURING theſe tranſactions in Egypt, king DEI-
OTARUS, to whom CESAR had committed the govern- defires affi-
ment of Afia, with the neighbouring provinces, came to ftance from
beg the affiſtance of DOMITIUS CALVINUS to prevent Domitius
Ar-
menia the leſs, which were his own territories, and Cap- naces.
padocia, the kingdom of ARIOBARZANES, from being
poffeffed and ravaged by PHARNACES; urging that unleſs
they were freed from thefe misfortunes, they fhould not
be able to pay CESAR the tribute they had contracted for.
DOMITIUS not only confidering how neceffary money was
for paying the foldiers, but likewife reflecting what a dif
grace it would be to the Roman empire, to the victorious
CESAR, and himfelf, to fuffer the kingdoms of their allies
to be invaded by foreign princes, immediately ordered
PHARNACES to quit Armenia and Cappadocia; and not He fends
incenſe the majeſty of the Roman people, by taking advantage embaffadors
of their being engaged in a civil war. Believing this meffage naces quit
would have the greater effect, if he marched that way with Cappadocia
an army, he went to his legions, and took the thirty-fixth and Arme-
along with him, for the other two he had ſent into Egypt in
obedience to CESAR's commands, one of which had no
ſhare in the Alexandrian war, having march'd by land thro'
Syria: befides this legion, DOMITIUS had two others from
DEIOTARUS, which had been inftructed in the Roman
difcipline, with one hundred cavalry: ARIOBARZANES
likewife furniſhed him with the fame number. He fent P. army toge-
SEXTUS to C. PRÆTORIUS the quæftor, for the legions ther, ap-
which had been levied in hafte in Pontus, and QUINTUS points them
PATISIUS for other forces out of Cilicia, which foon met at Comana.
at the general rendezvous at ↳ Comana, as DOMITIUS had
appointed.
b
to bid Phar
nia.
He gets an
to meet him
35. In the mean time PHARNACES fent embaffadors, Pharnaces's
in anſwer to DOMITIUS's demands, who were to acquaint anfwer.
b A town in Cappadocia.
Z 4
him,
344
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
ALEX. him, their king had quitted Cappadocia, and retired to Ar-
menia the leſs, which he had a lawful title to by inherit-
ance. However, he would wait CAESAR's arrival, and
fubmit his cauſe entirely to his arbitration. But DOMITIUS
found he had quitted Cappadocia through neceffity only,
and becauſe he thought he could more eafily defend Arme-.
nia, which lay nearer his kingdom, when DOMITIUS was
marching againſt him with all the three legions: whereas,
being now adviſed two were fent to CAESAR, he had
maintained his ground with greater affurance: DOMITIUS
refolved therefore to oblige him to quit that kingdom like-
Domitius's wife, fince he had no better title to Armenia than Cappado-
reply.
cia; nor was it reaſonable for him to expect the cauſe ſhould
be entirely referred to CÆSAR; which could not be done
till affairs were put in the very ſame poſture he found them,
and DELOTARUS again pofleffed of his dominions. Hav-
directly to ing made this reply, he marched with the forces I
Armenia. tioned before, into Armenia, taking his rout along the
hills. For from Pontus to Armenia the Lefs, by the way
of Comana, runs a continued ridge befet with woods,
which divides Cappadocia from Armenia. The advantages
he propofed by marching this way, were that he ſhould ef-
fectually prevent all furprizes, and receive fupplies from
Cappadocia, which abounded with corn.
He marches
Pharnaces
fends conti-
men-
36. PHARNACES in the mean time omitted not fend-
nual embaf- ing perpetual embaffies to treat of peace, and offer DOMI-
fies and pre- TIUS royal prefents, which he generously defpifed; an-
fents; which
are refufed. fwering, That nothing was of fuch eftimation to him, as
the dignity of the Roman empire, and the fatisfaction of
regaining thoſe kingdoms which belonged to her allies.
Having arrived, by long marches, near Nicopolis, a
He encamps town of Armenia, fituate in a plain, but covered by high
within ſeven mountains, at ſome diſtance, on two feveral fides, he en-
miles of Ni- camped about feven miles off the place. Between his
copolis.
quarters and Nicopolis lay a difficult and narrow paſs,
where PHARNACES difpofed an ambuſcade of his choiceft
foot, and almoſt all his cavalry. He gave orders that
plenty of cattle fhould be diſperſed about the entrance of
the avenue, and commanded ſeveral of the townſmen and
Pharnaces's peasants to fhew themſelves there, that in cafe DOMITIUS
ambufcade came as a friend, he might not ſuſpect an ambuſh, ſeeing
to no pur- both men and cattle in the fields; if as an enemy, his
foldiers might be attacked, and cut to pieces, whilst they
were difperfed up and down in queft of booty. Having
formed this contrivance, he ftill continued his einbaffies,
pole.
hoping
COMMENTARIES.
345
WAR.
hoping the more eafily to deceive him: but as fortune AL E X.
would have it, the profpect of a peace detained DOMITIUS
in his camp on the other fide the mountains; wherefore
having flipped the firſt opportunity, left DOMITIUS ſhould
get notice of his defign, PHARNACES recalled his forces
into his camp.
moves toNi-
copolis.
Pharnaces
intercepts a
The day after, DOMITIUS marched nearer Nicopolis, Domitius re-
and encamped over-against it. Whilft our men were work-
ing at the trenches, PHARNACES drew his forces out in
order of battle. According to the cuſtom of his country,
having difpofed his front in one line, he fupported each
of the wings with three referves, in the fame manner as
the middle front was fupported, the two intervals on the
right and left being uniformly filled up. But DOMITIUS,
making part of his forces attend in arms before the ram-
pier, compleated his works.
38. The following night, PHARNACES having inter-courier with
cepted one of our couriers that came from Alexandria, from notice of
his packet got intelligence what difficulties CASAR labour-Cafar's
ftraights.
ed under, how earneftly he preffed DOMITIUS to fend him
fupplies, and come nearer Alexandria by the way of Sy-
ria. Upon this, thinking himſelf as good as victor, pro- Defigns to
vided he could prolong the time till DOMITIUS fhould be prolong the
obliged to quit the country; where our army had the eafieft mitius goes.
acceſs to him, he funk two ditches four foot deep, at ſome
diſtance from each other, refolving to keep himfelf within
thofe limits; and between them he conftantly drew out his
army, placing his cavalry however on the fide of each
wing beyond them; which were infinitely ſuperior to ours
in number, and would otherwiſe have been uſeleſs.
time till Do-
folves to
39. But DOMITIUS, who was more uneafy for CÆSAR's Domitius re-
danger than his own, confidering he could not fafely re- fight him.
treat, if he ſhould now defire the conditions he had re-
jected, or march away without having effected any thing;
drew up his forces in order of battle: the thirty-fixth le- Draws out
gion he placed in the right, that of Pontus in the left, thoſe
of DEIOTARUS in the middle; leaving them but a very
narrow front, and difpofing the reft of his cohorts for a
reſerve.
his army.
40. Thus both armies being drawn up, and the fign of. The fight
battle given, the action began with various fuccefs; for various fuc
begins with
the thirty-fixth legion, charging the enemy's cavalry which ceft.
were on the outfide of the ditch, made fo confiderable a
progrefs, that they purſued them over it, and there
forced their way to the walls of Nicopolis.
That of
Pontus,.
•
346
C. J. CÆSAR'S
ALEX. Pontus, in the other wing, being obliged to give ground,
WAR. the fecond line of it endeavoured, by taking a circuit, to
Domitius
defeated.
paſs the ditch and flank the enemy, but were cut to pieces in
the attempt: as for DEIOTARUS's legions, they fcarce
were able to endure the first charge. Thus the king's
forces being victorious in the right wing and middle, faced
about to attack the thirty-fixth legion; who bravely main-
tained their ground againſt the conquering enemy; and
finding they were overpowered by numbers, with wonder-
ful prefence of mind caft themfelves into an orb, and re-
tired to the foot of a mountain, whither PHARNACES did
not think convenient to follow them, becauſe of, the dif-
advantage of the place. Thus a confiderable part of DEI-
OTARUS's forces being put to the ſword, and the Pontick
legion almoſt entirely cut off, the thirty-fixth gained the
higher ground, not having loft above two hundred and
fifty men. In this action fell feveral perfons of diftinction,
with fome Roman knights; but after the defeat, DOMI-
Heretreats TIUS rallying the remainder of his broken army, retired a
fecure way through Cappadocia into Aſia.
to Afia.
Pharnaces
over-runs
41. Fluſhed with this fuccefs, PHARNACES entered
Pontus; his Pontus with all his forces, trufting every thing would
barbarity. befall CESAR which he wifhed for. Here victory made
him moſt inhumanly cruel, for while he was regaining
what his father loft, he facked feveral towns, plundered
the natives and Roman citizens, exercifed fuch bar-
barity on thoſe, whofe age and beauty commanded re-
fpect, as was more intolerable than death; and no one
oppofing his progrefs, he boafted he had recovered his fa-
ther's kingdom.
CHAP.
IX.
42. ABOUT the fame time, we received another lofs
in Illyricum, which province for fome months before had
not only been maintained without difgrace, but with ho-
nour. For Q CORNIFICIUS, CAESAR's quæftor, being
ſent thither proprætor in the fummer with two legions,
though the country was hardly able to maintain an army
in its happier days, much leſs after it had been laid waſte
by inteftine broils; yet by his prudence and diligence,
taking particular care to do nothing rafhly, he reduced and
kept the province in obedience. He demolished feveral
forts erected on eminences; which furnished thoſe
that poffeffed them with opportunities of making excur-
fions, and fupporting a war; thefe he gave the foldiers free
leave
:
COMMENTARIES.
347
leave to plunder, and though the ſpoil was infignificant, it AL E X.
fatisfied them, being the fruits of their labour in fo poor a WAR.
country. On notice that OCTAVIUS, who efcaped from Octavius
the ſlaughter of Pharfalia, had put into harbour in his pro- comes to Il-
vince with a confiderable fleet, he got together a ſmall lyricum.
number of veffels from the Jadertini, who were always Cornificius
faithful to the commonwealth; and having defeated oc- takes feve-
TAVIUS, took the greateſt part of his fleet; which, joined ral of his
to thofe of his allies, made him powerful at fea.
ſhips,
Whilft CESAR was purfuing POMPEY to the fartheſt
parts of the world, on advice that ſeveral of the enemy had
retreated to Illyricum, becauſe it lay fo near Macedonia,
he fent GABINIUS orders to march with the new raiſed
legion under his command into Illyricum, and join COR-
NIFICIUS, that he might defend the province from danger:
but if he found the country could be fecured by a ſmall
number of forces, to return with the legions into Macedo-
nia; for fo long as POMPEY lived, he expected commo-
tions there.
ricum.
43. GABINIUS marched to Illyricum in winter-time, Gabinius ar-
when all provifions were fcarce: either believing the coun- rives in Illy-
try to be more plentiful than it really was, or depending
on CESAR's fortune, or his own conduct and experience,
which had often brought him out of the greateſt dangers
with fuccefs: but he could neither be fupplied by the pro-
vince, part of which had revolted, and part was already
drained; nor by fhipping from the fea, the winds ftanding
contrary: fo that he found himſelf obliged to make war,
not as he defigned, but as neceffity directed. When he
was thus forced by want to befiege towns or caftles in the
depth of winter, he met with many inconveniencies. In
fine, he became fo contemptible in the opinion of the na- He endea-
tives, that retiring to Salona, a fea-port town (faithfully ours to re-
defended by the Roman citizens) they attacked him upon lona, his
his march. In this action having loft above two thouſand rear cut off.
foldiers, thirty-eight centurions, and four tribunes, he re-
treated with the reft of his forces to Salona; where fuffering
the laſt extremities for want of all kind of provifions, he
died within a few months after. Whofe ill fate, living and
dying, put OCTAVIUS in great hopes of obtaining the pro-
vince: but fortune, which has a peculiar influence in war,
joining with CORNIFICIUS's diligence, and the courage of
VATINIUS, foon eclipfed his profperity.
44. VATINIUS was at Brindifi when this action hap-
pened, and had notice of it from CORNIFICIUS; who fre-
quently
treat to Sa-
He dies.
348
C. J. CÆSA R'S
I
ALEX. quently preffed him to come to the affiftance of the pro-
WAR. vince. Being likewiſe informed that OCTAVIUS, having
Vatinius
fits out a
Beet,
made a league with the natives, began to inveft our garri-
fons in feveral places, partly by himſelf at fea, partly by
his allies at land; though he found himſelf much indiſpoſed,
and his body was ſcarce able to keep pace with his courage,
yet refolution overcame the defects of nature, the hard-
fhips of the weather, and hurry of fpeedy preparations. For
having but few gallies himſelf, he had fent to KALENUS
for a fleet from Achaia; but finding they came not fo foon
as our neceffity required, who were no longer able to hold
out againſt OCTAVIUS, he faftened beaks to a confiderable
number of veffels which lay in the port, but were not large
enough for an engagement. Joining theſe to his gallies,
and putting veteran foldiers on board, of which he had ma-
Takes feve- ny, who ftaid behind at Brindifi for the recovery of their
Jal towns. health when the army departed for Greece, he hoifted
fail for Illyricum, taking in feveral fea-port towns by the
way, that had revolted, and leaving thofe that were obfti-
nate to perfift in their refolution, thinking nothing of ſo
Raifes the immediate confequence as purſuing OCTAVIUS. He found
Siege of Epi- him inveſting Epidaurus, where we had a garrifon, by fea
and land; but obliged him to quit the fiege, and then took
the garrifon on board his fleet.
daurus.
Engages
feet, and
beats him.
?
45. OCTAVIUS having notice that VATINIUS's fqua-
dron confifted moſtly of ſmall veſſels, and depending on the
ftrength of his own, refolved to wait for him at the iſland
Tauris. Hither VATINIUS followed, not that he imagined
OCTAVIUS ftaid there, but becauſe he defigned, if he had
quitted the place, to purfue him farther. He approached
Octavius's Tauris with his fhips ftraggling, the fea being rough, and
he in no expectation of an enemy, when he difcerned a
galley, mann'd with foldiers, making up directly towards
him. Upon this he immediately gave orders for fhorten-
ing fail, lowering the yards, arming the foldiers, and hoiſt-
ing the flag to give the fign of battle, that the fhips which
came after might prepare for the engagement. OCTA-
VIUS's fleet.came ready drawn up in order out of the port,
whereas VATINIUS had hardly time to put themſelves in a
poſture of defence; but if the firft had the advantage in
their difpofition, the latter had it in courage.
46. VATINIUS, finding himſelf unequally matched with
OCTAVIUS, as well in refpect to the fize as number of his
ſhips, refolved to experience the power of fortune. Where-
fore he began the charge, by running against OCTAVIUS'S
four
+
COMMENTARIES.
349
WAR.
four-banked fhip with his five banked one: this he did with AL È X•
fuch violence, and fo good fuccefs, that he broke the beak
of his adverfary's gally. The engagement was now hotly
maintained in all places, though the greateſt concourſe was
about the admirals, for both parties crowded to their affiſt-
ance, and the battle was fought in a very narrow compafs.
The nearer they engaged, the greater advantage had va-
TINIUS's fquadron; the foldiers of which leaping into the
enemy's fhips, gave wonderful proofs of their courage:
thus when all things elfe were equal, the fuperior bravery of
our men carried the day. Their admiral's galley was ſunk,
ſeveral more met with the fame fate, and others were taken:
part of OCTAVIUS's foldiers were cut to pieces, part
plunged into the fea; but he himſelf got into the boat,
which being overloaden was caft away; however he faved
his life, though wounded, by fwimming to his brigantine.
Being taken on board, when night put an end to the battle,
he ſpread all the fail he could, and with a ftrong wind fe-
cured his eſcape, attended only by a fmall number of gal-
lies, that had the good fortune to get clear from the danger
of the day.
Takes ele-
and other
47. VATINIUS, after this fuccefs, founded a retreat, and ven gallies,
entered victorious into the port from whence OCTAVIUS little fhips;
came out, without the lofs of a fingle veffel, having taken but Octavius
one five-banked, two three-banked, and eight two-banked efcapes.
gallies, with feveral rowers. Here he ſtaid two days to
rent his own fhips and thoſe he had taken; the third he
weighed anchor for the ifland Iffa, having notice that oc-
TAVIUS had retired thither. This place was of the
greateſt importance of any in thoſe parts, and moft firmly Vatinius
attach'd to OCTAVIUS's intereſt: but on VATINIUS's ar- takes Ifa.
rival, the people furrender'd at difcretion, informing him
that OCTAVIUS, with a few ſmall veffels, had failed with
a fair wind for Greece, from whence he defigned to pur-
fue his voyage to Sicily, and then to Africk. VA ATINIUS
having thus in fo fhort a fpace, happily accompliſhed his puriuit, and
defigns, having reduced the province, delivered it into returns to
CORNIFICIUS's charge, and defeated the enemy's fleet,
returned victorious to Brindifi, with his army and hips
entire.
CHAP. X.
48. WHILST CESAR was employed in befieging
POMPEY at Durazzo, in defeating him at Pharfalia, and
was afterwards engaged in the dangerous war at Alexan-
dria,
Here defifts
from the
Brindisi,
1
350
WAR.
Caffius go-
vernor of
Spain.
C. J. CESAR'S
ALEX. dria, though not equal to what fame reported it; CASSIUS
LONGINUS was left proprætor in Spain, to reduce the far-
ther province. Who, either prompted by his natural
temper, or the hatred he bore the country for the wounds
he had treacherously received there when quæftor, fhewed
ftill the remains of his refentment; or perhaps conſcious of
the mutual diftafte of the province towards him (which was
eafy to be difcerned, by ſeveral tokens, amongſt a people who
knew not how to diffemble their inclinations) he reſolved to
balance his averfion to the people by his love to the army.
His libera- Wherefore having appointed the foldiers a general rendez-
lity to the
vous, he promiſed each of them a hundred fefterces. And
not long after, having reduced Medobriga, a town in Lufi-
tania, and mount Herminius, where the people of Medo-
briga had taken refuge, they gave him the title of Imperator;
he in return preſented them with a hundred more feſterces
each. Befides theſe, he beſtowed confiderable gifts upon
particular perfons, which for the prefent gained in appear-
ance the army's affections, tho' fevere and military difci-
pline vaniſhed by degrees.
army.
He goes to
Corduba;
his extor-
tions.
His fines.
him.
49. CASSIUS, having difpofed his troops in winter-
quarters, went to prefide in the law courts at Corduba,
where he was deeply in debt, and refolved to pay by lay-
ing heavy impofitions upon the province. For they, who
fo prodigally beftow their prefents, always do it with a de-
fign to gain more than they give away. Money was ex-
torted from the wealthy; which CASSIUS did not only per-
mit, but enjoined fhould be paid him; thoſe that were rich
were amerced for trifling offences. In fine, no kind of pro-
fit to be made by great and apparent crimes, or the leaft and
moft infignificant, was neglected; by which means the præ-
tor's tribunal was never empty. Thoſe who had any thing
to lofe, were obliged to find fecurity for their good beha-
viour, or go to prifon; fo that their liberties were endan-
gered as well as their fortunes.
50. Thus it happened, that LONGINUS, taking the fame
meaſures, when prætor, as he had formerly purſued
when quæftor, the natives likewife again confulted how to
A plot to
affaffinate affaffinate him. Some of his neareſt attendants promoted
this defign, who, though they had ſhared with him in ra-
pine, yet hated the man whofe authority had led them
into that crime; and looked upon the fpoils with which
they had enriched themſelves, as their own acquifition, and
He raiſes a what they had mifs'd of they imputed to CASSIUS. He
new fifth le- raiſed a new fifth legion; which added to the people's
gion.
hatred,
1
COMMENTARIES.
351
hatred, becauſe they found their charges encreaſed: he ALEX.
compleated his horfe to three thoufand; impofed heavy WAR.
taxes, and allowed not the province a moment's refpite.
ceives orders
to go to
51. In the mean time he received orders from CESAR Caffius re-
to croſs the ſea with his army for Africk, and march to
Numidia, through the confines of Mauritania; becaufe Africk with
king JUBA had fent confiderable fupplies to POMPEY, and his army.
defigned to fend more. Immediately on receipt of this dif-
patch, prompted by the hopes of gaining new provinces,
and ſo rich a kingdom as Numidia, he marched to Portu-
gal to review his forces, and levy more: he employed
commiffioners to equip his navy, and prepare proviſions;
that nothing might retard his voyage at his return, which
was abundantly fooner than expected, for whenever profit.
called, CASSIUS neither wanted induftry nor vigilance.
foldiers.
finated at
52. Having got all his army together, and encamped He makes a
near Cordova, he made a ſpeech to the foldiers, wherein peech to the
he acquainted them with the orders he had received from
CÆSAR; and promiſed, when they ſhould arrive in Mau-
ritania, to give each a hundred fefterces. He told them,
he defigned to leave the fifth legion behind him in Spain.
And when he had finiſhed his oration, went to Cordova:
but the fame day, about noon, entering his judgment-hall, He is affaf-
one MINUTIUS SILO, a client to RACILIUS, preſented Cordova by
him with a paper, in a ſoldier's habit, under the pretence Minutius
of offering him a petition; then retiring behind RACILI US Silo.
(who walked cloſe by CASSIUS) as if he expected an an-
fwer, the attendants making way for him, he laid hold of
the prætor, while his back was towards him, with his left-
hand, and ftruck him twice with the dagger which he held
in his right; then fetting up a fhout, all the reft of the con-
fpirators rushed forwards; MANUTIUS PLANCUS killed the Manutius
next lictor, then wounded Q. CASSIUS the lieutenant: T. Plancus kille
VASIUS and L. MERGILIO feconded their countryman the lictor.
for they were all Italians. And LICINIUS Squillus
PLANCUS,
SQUILLUS gave the governor ſeveral fmall wounds whilft us whil
he lay upon the ground.
wounds Caf-
he lies upon
the ground.
53. By this time CASSIUS's guards came up to his aſſiſt- Caffius's
ance (for he always had ſeveral veteran foldiers and ſelect guards come
Spaniards about him) who kept out the reft of the affaf- up to his
relief.
C
c Betones or Vettones, a people of the Provincia Bætica. BLADEN, follow-
ing the emendation of Hadr. Valefius. But the MSS read Berones or Barones,
which anciently fignified the king's fervants and attendants in the palace;
whence in after-ages the word was applied to denote nobility. See Du Freſne.
Typogr.
fines,
352
C. J. CESAR'S
Minutius
taken.
thinking
Caffius dead,
carries news
camp.
* LegioVer-
nacula.
*
ALEX. fines, in which number were CALPURNIUS SALVIANUS,
WAR. and MANILIUS TUSCULUS. MINUTIUS, as he endea-
voured to make his eſcape, ftumbling upon fome ftones
which lay in his way, was taken and brought to CASSIUS.
Laterenfis RACILIUS hid himſelf in a friend's houfe that lay neareſt
the place, till he could get information whether CASSIUS
was dead. But L. LATERENSIS, not making the leaft
of it to the doubt of it, immediately ran with great fatisfaction to the
camp, to congratulate the Spaniſh and ſecond legion upon
the news, who he was fatisfied had a particular hatred for
CASSIUS. In return for his intelligence, they immediately
carried him into the tribunal, and proclaim'd him prætor:
for there was not a foldier that had been born in the pro-
vince, or of the fecond and Spaniſh legion, or who, by
long continuance in the country, had been naturaliz'd,
but join'd with the people in their averfion to CASSIUS.
But befides thefe, CASAR had likewife given him the thir-
tieth and twenty-firſt legions, raiſed fome few months be-
fore in Italy; as for the fifth legion, he had lately levied
that himſelf.
But finding
ftaken, goes
Caffius.
54. In the mean time LATERENSIS had intelligence that
himſelf mi- CASSIUS was still alive: upon which news, being more
ro wait upon troubled at the difappointment, than uneafy for his own
fafety, he immediately compofed himſelf, and went to
Every legion wait upon him. The thirtieth legion, by this time hav-
the natives, ing notice of what had pafs'd, march'd to Cordova to
comes to af-their general's affiftance; the twenty-firft and fifth follow'd
Aft Caffius. their example, leaving only the other two behind them in
but that of
He cauſes all
to be ſeized.
put to death.
the camp: whereupon the ſecond apprehending they ſhould
be left alone, and from thence a judgment fhould be form-
ed of their inclinations, did the like. But no apprehenfions
could make the Legio Vernacula move from the place, or
alter their refolution.
55. CASSIUS Commanded the affaffines to be feiz'd, and
the affaffines fent the fifth legion back again to the camp, retaining thirty
cohorts for his defence. By MINUTIUS's confeffion he
Rafcilius,
Laterenfis, learn'd that L. RACILIUS, L. LATERENSIS, and ANNIUS
and Scapula, SCAPULA, a Spaniard of great quality and intereft, as fami-
liar with him as either RACILIUS or LATERENSIS, was
equally concerned with them in the confpiracy: nor did he
long defer his revenge, before he caufed them to be put to
death. He deliver'd up MINUTIUS to be racked by his
Minutius freemen, and CALPURNIUS SALVIANUS, whoſe con-
Salvianus feffion added to the number of plotters, fome fay not with-
and Mergilio out juftice, but others complain what he faid was extorted
racked.
from
COMMENTARIES.
353
양
​{
money with
from him by pain. L. MERGILIO likewife underwent the AL E X.
queftion. And SQUILLUS impeach'd ſeveral; - who were WAR.
all condemn'd to die, except thofe that purchaſed their par-
dons; for CASSIUS publickly remitted the fentence of Caffius com-
pounds the
death paffed upon CALPURNIUS for fix millions of fefterces, fentence of
that on Q. SEXTIUS for five millions'; who, though thedeath for
deepeſt in the affaffination, were only fined. Thus money fome.
made him forget the danger of his life and the pains of his
wounds, whilſt avarice and cruelty contended for victory.
56. Within a few days after, he received another packet He receives
from CÆSAR, with an account of POMPEY's flight, and news of
the defeat of his forces. This news equally affected him being de-
Pompey's
with joy and ſorrow; for as he could not but rejoice atfeated.
CÆSAR's fuccefs, fo on the other hand he was uneaſy to
reflect that a conclufion of the war would put an end to the
licentiouſneſs of the times. Thus he was in difpute with
himſelf whether he ſhould fit down contented, without fear
of being called to account for the extortions he had already
committed, or purſue the dictates of his covetous temper. He makes
At length his wounds being cured, he fent for thoſe to whom the natives
he had formerly been liberal, and commanded them to refund the
refund the money they had received from him.
As for money he
them on whom he had hitherto impofed lighter burthens impofes new
gave them,
than uſual, he ordered them now to pay larger fums. With taxes.
the like juftice he refolved to levy new forces amongſt all
the colonies and focieties of Roman citizens throughout the
country; and ſuch as were afraid of a foreign expedition,
he obliged to redeem themſelves from the fervice by a- Makes thoſe
mercements; which raiſed him great fums of money, but that refufe
encreaſed the hatred of the province., After this, having re- Africk fine
viewed the army, he fent to Trajectum the legions he defign- for it.
ed to ſhip for Africk, and went himſelf to Sevil to ſee the
fleet he had prepared; where he ftaid fome time, having
publiſhed a proclamation, for fuch as had not paid the mo-
nies demanded of them, to attend him there; which was
looked upon by all people as a very great hardſhip.
to go to
the thirtieth
57. About the fame time L. TITIUS, who was then a At Sevil he
tribune of the Legio Vernacula, informed him there was has news of
a report the thirtieth legion, under the command of a mutiny in
QUINTUS CASSIUS the lieutenant, being encamped at legion.
Ilurgis, had mutinied, and having killed fome of the cen-
turions that oppofed them, were gone over to the ſecond
a Seftertium fexagies cum Calpurnio pacifcitur, cum Q. Sextio quinquagies :
fee Val. Max. 1. ix. 4. the former fum about 50,0001. of our money, the
latter about 416661. 13 s. 4 d. Typogr.
A a
legion,
354
C. J. CÆSA R'S
ALEX. legion, who marched another way towards the fea. On
WAR. this intelligence, CASSIUS, with five cohorts of the nine-
teenth, began his march, and arrived at Ilurgis the next
morning early; where he ſtay'd a day to confult what was
proper to be done, then went to Carmona. Here the
thirtieth legion and thirty-firft, with four cohorts of the
fifth, and all the cavalry attended him, bringing him in-
formation that the Legio Vernacula having furprized four
of his cohorts near Obucula, had obliged them to march.
with them to the fecond legion; where, after their joining,
they had unanimously chofen T. THORIUS, an Italian, for
their general. Whereupon CASSIUS LONGINUS imme-
diately fummoning a council, fent MARCELLUS to Cor-
dova, to fecure that town in his intereft, and Q. CASSIUS,
the lieutenant, to Sevil. But within a few days after, he
heard Cordova had revolted, and that MARCELLUS, either
voluntarily, or out of neceffity (for the bufinefs was vari-
oufly reported) had joined with them, as well as the two
cohorts of the fifth legion, who lay there in garrifon. Pro-
voked by this lofs, he decamped, and the day after arrived
at Segovia, upon the river Silicenfis; where he made an
oration to found the foldiers affections, whom he found to
be fincerely true to him, not for his own, but CÆSAR'S
fake; being ready to undertake any dangers, fo they might
but recover the province for CÆSAR.
Thorius ar-
dova.
58. THORIUS in the mean time led his veteran legions
rives at Cor-to Cordova; and that this rebellion might not appear the
effect of his and the foldiers feditious tempers, as likewife
that he might have a name of equal credit to ſet up againſt
CASSIUS, who, upon CASAR's account, was likely to gain
more affiſtants than himſelf, he declared his defign was to
recover the province for CN. POMPEY; which perhaps he
was equally induced to by the hatred he bore CAESAR, and
the affection he had for POMPEY; whoſe name had a
wonderful influence over thofe legions that formerly ſerved
under VARRO: but whether this was really his deſign or
not, I fhall not pretend to determine. However, it was
a Yet there is no notice taken that he had the
therefore in my opinion ſhould be the twenty-firſt.
nineteenth legion, which
b We are to fuppofe TITIUS's report was falfe, but occafion'd by the lofs
of the four cohorts mentioned; elfe how came the thirtieth legion to attend
CASSIUS at Carmona? BLADEN. The objection is juft; and Dr. Jurin's e-
mendation, if admitted, very happily clears it another way, who at the be-
ginning of this ſection for L. Titius tribunus militum in leg. Vernac. nunciat fa-
ma legionem xxx---reads L. Titius nunciat cam a legione xxx, &c. i. e. L. Ti-
tius tribune of the Legio Vernacula informed him that that legion had revolted
from the xxxth, &c. Typogr.
his
COMMENTARIES.
355
WAR.
his pretence, as the foldiers confeffed, who bore POMPEY'S ALEX.
name engraven on their fhields. The inhabitants of Cor-
dova, men, women, and children, came out in a body to
meet him, begging he would not deftroy their town, fince
they had as ftrong an averfion for CASSIUS as he, only
they defired they might not be obliged to act againſt cœ-
SAR.
out of their
59. The army were moved by the tears and entreaties of
fo great a multitude; and finding there was no occafion for
the name or memory of POMPEY to perfecute CASSIUS,
who was equally odious to both parties; but that it was
impoffible either to perfuade the people of Cordova, or
MARCELLUS to declare againſt CÆSAR, erafed POMPEY'S The foldiers
name out of their fhields, and chufing MARCELLUS, who erafe Pom-
profeffed himſelf CASAR's friend, their general, joined Pey's name
with the colony, and encamped near the town.
Within ſhields,
two days after, CASSIUS Croffed the Guadalquivir, and en- chooſe Mar-
cellus their
camped on a rifing ground within view of the place, about cellus
general.
four miles diftance from Cordova. From hence he dif- Caffius ar
patched couriers to king BOGUD in Africk, and M. LEPI- rives at the
Guadalqui-
DUS, proconful in the hither Spain, to fend him and the vir: fends to
Province affiftance as foon as poffible, for CÆSAR's fake: Bogud and
not omitting in the mean while to deftroy the country and Lepidus for
buildings round about Cordova.
affiftance.
He ravages
Marcellus's
defire to
Both armies
60. Fired with this indignity, the legions that had chofen the country.
MARCELLUS for their general, unanimouſly defired he army pro-
would lead them out in order of battle, and rather engage voked at it,
the enemy, than fuffer the moſt noble and beloved
country
of Cordova to be confumed with fire and fword before their fight him.
eyes. MARCELLUS knowing the fatal confequences of drawn out;
a fight to CÆSAR, fince a victory on either fide would be but they do
a lofs to him, much against his will crofs'd the Guadalqui- not engage.
vir, and difpofed his legions in order of battle. CASSIUS
did the like upon a rifing ground; MARCELLUS perceiving
he would not defcend from the advantage he had got, laid
hold of that reaſon to perfuade his foldiers to return again
to their camp. He had already begun to retreat, when
CASSIUS, knowing himſelf to be ſtronger than he, fell upon
MARCELLUS's legions with his cavalry, and made a confi-
derable flaughter amongst their rear, upon the banks of the
river. But MARCELLUS, finding the inconvenience he had
met with in croffing the water, removed his camp to the
other fide the Guadalquivir, where both armies frequently
drew out, but did not engage, by reafon of the difficulty
of coming to each other.
A a 2
61. MAR-
1
356
C. J. CÆSA R'S
ALEX.
camps,
Camps under
Marcellus
purſues him,
61. MARCELLUS was much fuperior to CASSIUS in foot;
WAR. having the veteran legions which had learned experience
from the many battles they had fought. But CASSIUS de-
pended more upon the fidelity than the courage of his fol-
diers; wherefore when both armies were encamped over-
againſt each other, and MARCELLUS had erected a fort on
a convenient place, for preventing the enemy from getting
Caffius de- Water
water; LONGINUS, apprehending he fhould be befieged in
a country that hated him, filently decamped by night, and
marches to marched towards Ulla, which place he believed firm to his
Ulla, en- intereft. Here he encamped fo near the town (which was
the walls. fituated on a hill) that the nature of the place and walls of
the town might fecure him from any attempts of the ene-
my. Hither MARCELLUS purſued him, and encamped as
near Ulla as he could. Having taken a view of the place,
he found himſelf obliged by neceffity, and at the fame time
in conformity to his own wifhes, neither to engage CAS-
SIUS, which he could not have reftrained his enraged fol-
diers from without fuch neceffity; nor to permit him to
march farther, left other countries fhould fuffer as much
as Cordova. Wherefore having erected caftles in proper
places, he drew a line of circumvallation, wherein he en-
and invefts clofed both CASSIUS and the town. But before the works
him and the were perfected, LONGINUS fent away all his cavalry, who
he imagined might do him confiderable fervice by inter-
cepting MARCELLUS's foragers and convoys; but would
only be an uſeleſs clog upon him, to confume his provi-
fions, if he was once invefted.
town.
Bogud ar-
rives with
his fupplies.
62. King BOGUD, after the receipt of CASSIUS's letters,
arrived in a few days with his forces, having a joined to the
legion he brought with him feveral auxiliary cohorts of
Spain; for, as it always happens in civil wars, fome towns
favoured CASSIUS, but more MARCELLUS. BOGUD ar-
riving at MARCELLUS's outward works, there were ſeveral
fharp difputes between them, wherein fortune fometimes
inclined to one, fometimes to the other party, but MAR-
CELLUS ftill maintained his lines.
Lepidus ar-
63. In the mean time LEPIDUS, from the hither pro-
rives, Mar- vince, with thirty-five legionary cohorts, a great number
cellus fub- of horſe and auxiliaries, came to Ulla, fully refolving to
mits his
caufe to
will not.
a Adjungitque ei legionem, quam fecum adduxerat; complurcfque cobortes
him, Caffius auxiliares, i. e. and joined him with the legion he brought with him, and fe-
veral auxiliary cohorts, &c. But how (as Dr. Jurin obferves) could BOGUD
join CASSIUS, who was furrounded by MARCELLUS's works? That inge-
nious critic therefore reads, adjungit ci legioni quam fecum adduxerat, complures,
&c. Typogr.
4
compofe
1
COMMENTARIES.
357
}
;
WAR.
compoſe the differences between the two enemies. Upon A LEX.
his arrival MARCELLUS immediately delivered himſelf into
his power; but CASSIUS ftaid ftill in his camp; either
affuming to himſelf a greater dignity than MARCELLUS,
or fearing LEPIDUS had been prepoffeffed againſt him.
LEPIDUS encamped near the town, kept a fair cor-
reſpondence with MARCELLUS, but commanded him not
to fight; inviting CASSIUS at the ſame time to his camp,
and offering his parole for his fafe return. CASSIUS having
long confidered on the propofal, ftill diftrufting LEPIDUS,
yet not foreſeeing any profperous event from his refolution,
if he continued in it, at laſt deſired MARCELLUS's works
ſhould be demolished, that he might have free liberty to Caffius de-
march out. The truce was not only concluded on, but the fires Mar-
works almoſt levelled, and the centinels drawn off from the
fortifications, when BOGUD's foldiers made a furious attack be levelled;
upon one of MARCELLUS's caftles, which lay nearest their 'tis granted.
Bogud's
camp, before any one was acquainted with their defign, breach of
except CASSIUS; for he was fufpected not to be ignorant the truce.
of it. Here they made a great flaughter amongſt our fol-
diers; and had not LEPIDUS, provoked with the breach of
faith, interpofed his affiftance to put an end to the difpute,
more fatal confequences had enfued.
cellus's
works may
He embarks
for Italy;
64. CASSIUS having now a free paffage, MARCELLUS Marcellus
joined camps with LEPIDUS, and both marched together and Lepidus
to Cordova; CASSIUS to Carmona.
CASSIUS to Carmona. In the mean time join camps.
Caffius
TREBONIUS arrived to take poffeffion of the province, as marches to
proconful: Upon which CASSIUS, having diftributed his le- Carmona.
gions into winter-quarters, immediately packed up his goods
and went to Malaga, where he embarked, pretending he
durft not truſt himſelf with LEPIDUS, MARCELLUS, and
TREBONIUS: his friends reported, it was becauſe he would
not make a tour through the province in lefs fplendor than
formerly, fince part had revolted from him; but others
were of opinion, he did it left that money ſhould be forced
from him by violence, which he had fcraped together by
his innumerable extortions. Having weighed anchor, with
as favourable a gale as could be expected from the ſeaſon
of the year, to avoid failing in the night, he put into the
Ebro; and though afterwards the wind blew fomething
ſtronger than before, yet he thought he might fet fail again
without danger; but he was caft away in the very mouth but is caft
of the river, the failors being neither able to tack about, by away in the
reafon of the rapidity of the ftream, nor to keep the fhip mouth of
fteady againſt the violence of the waves.
A a 3
CHAP.
the Ebro.
358
C. J. CÆSA R'S
ALEX.
WAR.
Cæfar ar-
rives in Sy-
diforders in
Italy:
fairs of thoſe
where he
CHA P. XI.
65. WHEN CÆSAR came to Syria from Egypt, he
was informed, as well by letters as feveral perfons who ar-
rived there from Rome to attend him, that the city and
commonwealth laboured under great diſorders; that dan-
ria, has no-gerous feditions were cauſed by the diſputes between the
tice of the tribunes of the people; that the ambition of the military
tribunes, and thofe other officers to whom the command
of legions had been committed, had fuffered the ancient
and fevere Roman difcipline to be corrupted; and that
there was no redrefs to be hoped for, but from his pre-
But ftays to fence. However, before his departure, he thought it`ab-
fettle the af- folutely neceffary to compofe the diffentions in thoſe pro-
provinces vinces where he then was, to reſtore the laws to their an-
cient current, and free them from all apprehenfions of
foreign enemies. This he hoped quickly to effect in Afia,
Syria, and Cilicia, as thofe countries were not engaged in
war; but expected to find more difficulty in Bithynia and
Pontus: for he heard no news of PHARNACES quitting
Pontus, nor believed he defigned it, being fluſhed with his
late ſucceſs over DOMITIUS CALVINUS. Having made a
ſhort ſtay almoſt in every country of note, he diſtributed
rewards both publick and private to thoſe that had deferved
them; then heard and adjuſted their ancient differences,
and having received all the kings and potentates, as well of
the provinces as of the neighbouring countries, into his pro-
tection, and diſtributed the neceffary orders for defending
the country, he difmiffed them all full of affection to him
and the Roman people.
was.
He makes
vernor of
cia;
66. Having ſtayed a few days there, he conſtituted his
S. Cæfar go-friend and relation SEXTUS CESAR, governor of Syria;
Syria. then failed for Cilicia, with the fame fleet in which he
Goes to Cili-came.
He gave orders for all the people of that province
to attend him at Tarfus, one of the beſt and ſtrongeſt
towns in their territories. Here he ſtaid no longer than
was abfolutely neceffary to fettle the publick affairs with
thoſe of the neighbouring ſtates; for, prompted by the dẹ-
fire of opening the campaign, he march'd by long journies
from thence through Cappadocia, and arrived at Mazaca; from whence,
to Cappado- after two days reft, he purfued his journey to Comana, a
town of Cappadocia, renown'd for the most ancient and
facred temple of Bellona; to whom the people pay fo pro-
cia.
d Againſt Pharnaces,
found
COMMENTARIES.
359
WAR.
Makes Ni-
found an adoration, that her prieſt poffeffes the ſecond poſt A i Å X.
of honour and authority in their country, being inferior
only to the king. This priesthood cÆSAR conferred upon
NICOMEDES, a Bithynian, of a moft illuftrious houfe, de- comedes
ſcended from the royal line of Cappadocia; who laid claim prieſt of
to that office by an undoubted right, though it was ob- Bellona.
fcured by length of time, and the low ebb of fortune to
which his family had been reduced. As for ARIARATHES,
he delivered him into the protection of his brother king
ARIOBARZANES; for fince both had well deferved from
the commonwealth, he was not willing ambition fhould
tempt one to rebel, or abfolute power the other to uſe his
brother too ſeverely *.
This affair compofed, he purſued his journey with the He arrives
ufual diſpatch.
near Pontus.
Deiotarus
comes to
67. When he arrived near Pontus and the confines of
Galatia, DEIOTARUS, undoubted king of Armenia the make his
leffer, though his title to the tetrarchate of almoft the whole fubmiffion.
province of Galatia was difputed by the other potentates of
that country; having laid afide not only all regal ornaments,
but even the habit of a gentleman, attended CASAR in a
fuppliant's garb; " humbly craving pardon, that being
placed by fortune in a country where CASAR had no forces,
he had lent his affiftance to POMPEY; fince it did not be-
long to him to decide the controverfies of the Roman peo-
ple, but obey the prefent power."
Cæfar's an-
He pardons
68. To which CESAR, "firſt reminding him of the
many friendly offices he had done him, during his confu- fwer,
late; to convince him the defence he made was no excuſe
for what he had done, reply'd, 'Twas impoffible for a
perfon of his prudence and experience to be ignorant who
was master of Rome and Italy; where the fenate, people,
and republick were; or who was elected conful after L.
LENTULUS and C. MARCELLUS: however, he forgave
him, for the former fervices he had done, for the acquaint-
ance which had been between them, for the dignity of his
character, the refpect due to his age, and the numerous
interceffions of ſtrangers and friends on his behalf." Hav-
ing reſtored him his kingly apparel, he told him he would
hereafter decide the difpute about his tetrarchate: but com-
manded DEIOTARUS to attend him to the war, with all his
• What fecurity then did CESAR give ARIARATHE'S againſt the abfolute
power of his brother? He made him king of Armenia the lefs: and fo this
place should be fupplicd. See the foundation for this emendation in Dr. Jurin.
Typogr.
A a 4
cavalry
f
360
C. J. CÆSAR'S
A
LEX. cavalry and the legion which he had cauſed to be inftructed
WAR. in the Roman difcipline.
69. When CÆSAR was arrived in Pontus, and had drawn
all his forces together, he found them but inconfiderable,
as well in refpect to their number, as their experience;
for he had only two legions befides that of DEIOTARUS,
and the ſixth of veteran foldiers, brought from Alexandria ;
which was fo diminiſhed by the fatigues and dangers they
had undergone, part being loft in the difficult marches and
voyages they had made, others cut off in the frequent en-
gagements they had been in, that there were not a thou-
fand men of the legion left. Here, however, he received
embaffage to an embaffage from PHARNACES: "The deputies, in the
first place, defiring he would not enter the country in a
hoftile manner ; for their king was ready to fubmit to
whatever CÆSAR fhould think fit to command him.
they infifted much upon it, as a meritorious act in their
mafter, that he had never fent any forces to the affiſtance
of POMPEY; which DEIOTARUS had done, and was not-
withſtanding received into favour."
Pharnaces's
Cæfar.
fwer.
But
Cæfar's an- 70. To this CESAR made anfwer, "If PHARNACES
performed his promife, he fhould find CASAR his friend:
but he mildly adviſed the embaffadors, not to value them-
felves fo much, becauſe they had not done like DEIOTARUS,
in fending fupplies to POMPEY; for though he was al-
ways ready to pardon private injuries, yet he could never
forgive thoſe committed againſt the republick, even by the
perfons that had done him the moft zealous fervices. Be-
fides, it was a greater advantage to PHARNACES that he
had fent no forces, fince he had thereby eſcaped a defeat,
than to CÆSAR, whom the immortal gods had made victo-
rious. However, he was willing to forgive him the grie-
vous injuries he had done the Roman citizens in Pontus,
becauſe it was now too late to think of reſtitution; for nei-
ther could thoſe be brought to life again whom he had
murdered, nor they regain their virility on whom he had
inflicted puniſhments more intolerable to Romans than
death. But let him immediately quit the kingdom of
Pontus, reftore the general-receivers their fervants, and
return thoſe goods of private perfons which were in his
cuftody. Theſe conditions once performed, then was the
time to fend thofe prefents, which fuccefsful generals ufually
receive from their friends:" for PHARNACES had preſented
CASAR with a golden crown.
71. He fent the embaffadors. back with this anfwer: but
PHAR-
{
COMMENTARIES.
361
Pharnaces
PHARNACES, who had promiſed fo liberally, hoping CE- ALEX.
SAR was in hafte to be gone and had given more credit WAR.
to his affurances than he really had, that he might the
fooner diſpatch other bufinefs of greater importance (for muffling.
every one knew CESAR was recalled by many affairs to
Rome) began to perform but flowly, fometimes defiring a
longer day, fometimes other conditions, and in fine endea-
vouring to fruftrate CÆSAR's defign. But he perceiving
PHARNACES's drift, was now obliged by neceffity to that
which at other times he was led to by inclination, to de-
cide the diſpute by a battle fooner than was expected.
rives nea
Zeila,
72. Zeila is a town of Pontus, well fortify'd confider- Cæfar a
ing its fituation; for though the town ftands upon a plain,
yet the walls round about are built upon hills that environ
the place, and look, as if they had been contriv'd by art.
On every fide of this town lie many mountains, divided
fr each other by intervening vallies; the moſt remark-
able of them is that which the victory of MITHRIDATES
over TRIARIUS, and the flaughter of our army rendered
famous; lying not above three miles diftant from Zeila,
and having a ridge that extends almoſt to the town: upon
which PHARNACES, in memory of the fuccefs his father
formerly had, when encamp'd there, lodg'd himſelf with
all his forces.
73 CESAR lay about five miles diftant from the enemy,
and perceiving the fame valley which fortified the king's
camp might be of the like advantage to him, if he could pof-
fefs the oppofite hill before the enemy, who lay much the
neareſt to it; he commanded his foldiers to furnish them-
felves with fafcines: theſe orders performed, the next morn-
ing about three o'clock, leaving all his baggage behind him,
he fet forward with his legions, and by break of day, be-
fore the enemy had notice of his motions, poffeffed himſelf
of the very fame place where MITHRIDATES lodged when He gains a
he routed TRIARIUS. Hither he commanded the fervants fummit op-
of the army to bring all the faſcines, for he would not fuf- Pofite to that
fer one foldier to be abfent from the works, fince only a vale, naces was
hardly a mile over, divided the two armies.
where Phar-
encamped.
draws out
74. Early in the morning, PHARNACES having notice of
this, drew all his forces out before his camp: but as the Pharnaces
difadvantage of the place was fo very confiderable, CESAR his forces.
at firſt believed he did it only to exerciſe the foldiers, and
to retard the progrefs of his works, by obliging him to keep
more foldiers in arms; or out of oftentation, to convince
CESAR that he depended not more on the advantage of his
poft,
352
C. J. CÆSAR'S
ALEX. poft, than the ftrength of his army: wherefore keeping
WAR. only the first line in order. of battle, CESAR com-
manded the reft of his forces to go on with the fortifica-
tions. But PHARNACES, prompted either by the omen
of the place, by religious predictions which we were
afterwards informed he was much governed by, the con-
tempt of our ſmall numbers in arms (for he believed all
the fervants that daily carried materials for the works
were foldiers) or depending on the experience of his army,
which his lieutenants boafted had engaged and defeated the
twenty-fecond legion; and defpifing our forces, which he
had worſted when under the command of DOMITIUS, he
reſolved to give us battle, and therefore deſcended to the
bottom of the valley. CESAR at firft derided his vain at-
tempt, in drawing his army into fo narrow a place, whither
no general in his right fenfes would have ventured. But
PHARNACES, in the mean time, having defcended into the
vale, now began to afcend the ſteep avenues of our hill in
order of battle.
CÆSAR, moved at his wonderful raſhneſs, and finding
himſelf attack'd before he was prepared to receive PHAR-
NACES, in an inſtant drew his ſoldiers off from the works,
ordering them to repair to their arms; and having ſent a
party to oppofe the enemy's afcent, difpofed his army in
battle array. However, the furprize occafioned great con-
fufion amongst our men; for before they could be ranged
The battle according to method, the king's chariots broke in upon
begins.
them, and difordered their ranks; but they were fo warmly
plied with our darts, that we foon put a stop to their career:
the battle foon became general, and a fhout being ſet up,
the fight immediately began. The advantage of the
place was of no ſmall ſervice to us, though not fo much as
the affiſtance of the immortal gods, who as they have an in-
fluence over all battles, ſo they moſt conſpicuouſly exert
their power, where human conduct is of no fervice.
*
J
76. The conflict had been warmly maintained for fome
time, when the fixth veteran legion, that was difpoſed in the
right, made the firſt ſtep towards victory, by forcing the
enemy's left to defcend from the hill: afterwards with greater
difficulty, but by the fame providential affiftance, the left
wing and main body routed likewife the reſt of the king's
forces, who as they had eafily gained the fummit, fo they
now felt the difadvantage of being driven from it with pre-
Pharnaces cipitation. Thus part being killed, part trodden under
camp taken. foot, thoſe who were nimble eſcaped, having firſt flung
routed, his
3
away
COMMENTARIES.
363
no
away their arms; nor was it poffible for them to defend AL E X.
themſelves even upon the higher ground, whilft they had WAR.
no weapons. Our foldiers, fluſhed with fuccefs, made Pharnaces
fcruple of furmounting difficulties, and ftormed the enemy's narrowly ef
works: the cohorts which PHARNACES had left to fecure capes.
his camp made fome fmall refiftance, but we quickly forced
their trenches. Thus all PHARNACES's army being either
killed or taken prifoners, he made his eſcape, attended only
by a few cavalry; but had not our foldiers been amuſed by
affaulting his camp, he had certainly fallen alive into CA-
SAR's hands.
place.
Mithridates
77. CÆSAR, though no ftranger to victory, yet was
more particularly affected with this, which had fo foon
put an end to an important war; nor did the
nor did the memory of
his unexpected danger a little add to his fatisfaction, when
he reflected from how difficult a beginning he had gained
an eaſy conqueft. Pontus thus reduced, he diſtributed all
the ſpoil of the king's army among his foldiers, and the day
after fet forward with a guard of light-armed cavalry,
Pontus qui-
having firſt ordered the fixth legion to return to Italy, where
eted, Vincia-
they ſhould receive the rewards and honours they had me-nus left go-
rited; he fent back DEIOTARUS his auxiliaries, and left vernor of the
CÆLIUS VINCIANUS with two legions to protect the kingdom."
78. Through Galatia and Bithynia he travelled to Afia,
arbitrating all the controverfies of the countries he paſſed
through, and diſtributing equal juſtice amongſt the ſeveral
kings, ftates, and tetrarchs. MITHRIDATES of Pergamus made king
he made king of Bofphorus, in return for the fervice he had of Bofphe
done him in Egypt: a general defcended from royal blood, rus.
and educated in courts even from his youth; for MITHRI-
DATES, king of all Afia, out of refpect to his birth, had
taken him whilft a boy from Pergamus, and kept him in
his camp for feveral years. Bofphorus was formerly fub-
ject to PHARNACES, and furrounded by barbarous kings,
all enemies to the commonwealth; and CÆSAR thought he
took an effectual method to fecure it in the Roman intereft,
by committing it to the charge of fo faithful a prince. Hetles the dif
decreed him likewife, according to right of defcent, and pute about
propinquity of blood, the tetrarchate of Galatia, which for the tetrar-
fome years before had been poffeffed by DEIOTARUS. latia.
However he made no longer ſtay any where than the ne-
ceffity of his return to compofe the diforders at Rome would
allow of; but having adjusted all affairs with equal fuccefs
and diſpatch, returned to Italy before he was expected.
HIRTIUS
Cæfar fet
chate of Ga
HIRTIUS PANSA, or OPPIUS's
COMMENTARY
OF THE
AFRICAN WAR.
AFRIC.
WAR.
The CONTENT s.
CÆSAR, having compofed the troubles at Rome, fails
for Africk, gains Leptis. Has feveral ſkirmishes
with LABIENUS. JUBA, going to join SCIPIO,
is forced to return, on news that BOGUD had en-
tered his country. The various fuccefs of the war
on both fides. Towns loft and taken; fhips taken,
but fortune inclines to CESAR. A fet battle, and
SCIPIO defeated. The death of CATO, and feveral
other perfons of note. JUBA's kingdom reduced
into a province.
C
CHAP. I.
a
ESAR, by common, but continued marches, ar-
rived on the thirtieth of September at Lilybæum ;
defigning to go on board immediately, though he had
He arrives at only one legion of new levies, and ſcarce fix hundred ca-
Lilybæum. valry. To prevent his men from having any thoughts of
ſtaying, and that they might be ready upon an hour's warn-
XIV. Cal.
Jan.
Per. Jul.
4667.
U. C. Var.
707.
a Mr. D'ABLANCOURT, and the gentleman that tranflated this book into
Engliſh, render xiv. Kal. Jan. the 17th of December, and are two days earlier
than me, at CESAR'S embarking: but I have followed Dr. BUSBY's and
Dr. KENNET's accounts of the Kalends, Nones, and Ides, in making it the
19th of December. BLADEN: Who was not aware that the Julian Calendar
was not yet introduced. The former tranflators therefore, fomewhat more
rationally than he, computed by NUMA's. Though that in general is a very
ing,
COMMENTARIES.
365
ing, he cauſed his pavilion to be pitched fo near the fea, AFRIC.
that it was almoſt waſhed by the waves. The wind happened WAR.
to be contrary; but however, he permitted not the failors,
or rowers, to come on fhore, that he might omit no oppor-
tunity of weighing anchor: for though he received intelli-
gence from the inhabitants of Africk how confiderable the
enemy's forces were; that their cavalry was very numer-
ous; that they had fix legions belonging to king JUBA, ten
to SCIPIO, befides great numbers of light-armed foot, an
hundred and twenty elephants, and feveral fquadrons of
fhips; yet, not in the leaſt daunted at theſe mighty prepa-
rations, he refolved to purfue his enterprize. In the mean
time his gallies, tranfports and new levies daily encreaſed;
hither likewife came the fifth veteran legion, and two thou-
fand horſe to attend him.
b
to fail to
2. Having now got fix legions, and two thouſand ca- Orders part
valry, he cauſed them to embark in the gallies in the fame of the Acet
order they arrived, and the horſe in the tranfports. Then Paconia.
commanded the greateft part of his navy to fail before to
the ifland Paconia, which lies not far diftant from Lily-
bæum; himſelf ſtaying behind to expofe fome few perfons
confifcated goods to public fale. Afterwards having com-
manded ALIENUS, prætor of Sicily, to fend him all neceffary
provifions, and fee the reſt of his army go on board as foon
as poffible, he embarked himſelf on the eighth of October c, A. d. vi.
and foon came up with the rest of his fleet. Thus with a Cal. Jan.
fair wind, and quick paffage, he arrived, after four days
fail, within fight of Africk, attended by a few gallies; for
imperfect rule, by reafon of the arbitrary liberty the Priests took of interca-
lating more or lefs, as they had an intereft to ferve. However, as we know
the method JUL. CASAR obferved in reforming the Calendar juft after his return
from Africa, we are able to afcertain the precife dates of each tranfaction the
year before. To bring the feafons of the year to answer their respective
months, he made a year of 445 days, as Cenforinus faies, De die natal. c. 20;
or 15 months, as Suet. in Jul. c. 40. Now reckoning fo many days backward
through the year Per. Jul. 4668, they terminate on Oct. 13, Per. Jul. 4667.
So far back were the Calends of Jan, got: and confequently xiv Kal. Jan. to
Sept. 30. See the learned Dr. Afhon's ingenious differtation on this fubject in
Biblioth. Liter. 1722. Typogr.
b The original is Aponiana; but there is no fuch place to be found in an-
cient geographers; therefore commentators have thought fit to make it Paco-
mia; which quadrates with the deſcription.
c In the orig. a. d. vI. Cal. Jan. which would be Dec. 27. according to the
Julian Calends. But Cicero de Divinat. c. 24. faies CESAR fet fail, ante
brumam, i. e. before the winter folftice, which was at that time vIII. Cal.
Jan, or Dec. 25. Now Dec. 27, cannot be before Dec. 25, or before winter,
if we take bruma in the extenfivé fenfe of the word. By the preceding account
this difficulty is removed: Cicero fpeaks of the winter folftice, denoting the
ſeaſon of the year: Hirtius of vI. Cal. Jan. as it ftood in the Calendar of that
year, which by the Julian reformation, would be Oct. 8. long enough there-
fore before the winter folftice Dec. 25. See Dr. Afhon as before. Typogr.
moft
·
366
C. J. CESAR'S
AFRIC.moft of his tranfports, being difperfed by the tempeft, put
WAR. into ſeveral ports.
near Adru-
3. Having failed by Clupea, Neapolis, with diverſe over
Cæfar lands towns and caſtles upon the fea-coaſts, he at laſt arrived at
metum,with Adrumetum, where the enemy had a garriſon commanded
3000 foot, by C. CONSIDIUS; CN. PISO likewife appeared upon fhore
and 150
towards Clupea, at the head of the cavalry of Adrumetum,
horse.
and about three thouſand Moors.
Confidius's
cruelty.
CASAR lay at anchor for fome time, to expect the reft
of his tranfports; but at length landed his army, which at
preſent confifted only of three thouſand foot, with a hundred
and fifty horfe, and encamped before the town, without of-
fering injury to any perfon, having ftrictly prohibited his
foldiers from plundering. In the mean time the inhabitants
manned the walls in their own defence, and placed them-
felves in confiderable numbers before the gates, their forces
amounting to two legions: CESAR having rode round the
town to take a view of it, returned again to his camp. Many
people reflected on his conduct, that he had not appointed his
fleet a certain place of rendezvous; nor, according to his
uſual cuſtom, delivered them orders fealed up, to be opened
at fome particular place. But CESAR had very good rea-
fon for what he did; for he was apprehenfive, that no part
of Africk was fo clear from the enemy's forces, as to afford
them a ſafe landing-place: wherefore he thought it beſt to
rely intirely upon fortune, and land where occafion offered.
4. L. PLANCUs, the lieutenant, defired Cæsar would
give him leave to treat with CONSIDIUS, and try if it was
poffible to reduce him to reafon : his requeft being granted,
he wrote a letter to him, and ſent it into the town by one of
the prifoners. So foon as the meffenger arrived, he went
according to orders to deliver the packet, when CONSI-
DIUS, before he would receive it, demanded whence it
came, From CÆSAR the Generaliffimo, replied the meſ-
fenger. I know no Generaliffimo of the Roman army but
SCIPIO, faies CONSIDIUS; then commanded the meffenger
to be put to death in his prefence, and returned the letter
unopened to SCIPIO.
CHA P. II.
5. CÆSAR had now attended a day and a night before
the town, without receiving any anſwer from CONSIDIUS;
and confidering his forces were not yet arrived; that his
cavalry were but inconfiderable in number; that he had not
an army fufficient to inveſt the town; that it would dif-
courage
1
COMMENTARIES.
367
courage his raw foldiers to enter upon warm fervice fo AFRIé.
foon; that the place was well fortified; and that the WAR
enemy expected numerous fupplies of horſe, he thought it
adviſeable not to attempt a fiege, which would endanger
his being furrounded behind by their cavalry.
the enemy
fally to at-
6. But when he was decamping, the garrifon made a vi- He quits A-
gorous fally, being luckily joined the fame inftant by JUBA's drumetum
horſe, who came thither to receive their pay. They ſoon
poffeffed themſelves of the camp we had deferted, and began tack Cæfar's
to purſue our rear; whereupon the foot immediately halted, rear with ill
and our cavalry, though few in number, bravely charged fo fuccefs.
great a multitude. The fuccefs was incredible, for lefs than
thirty Gallick horſe broke two thouſand of the Moors, and
purſued them even to the gates of Adrumetum. The
enemy thus repulfed, CÆSAR continued his march; but ob-
ferving they frequently fally'd, and retired again when at-
tacked by our horfe, he diſpoſed a few veteran cohorts,
which he had along with him, in the rear, with a party of
cavalry, and marched forward flowly with the reft: thus
the farther he retired, the lefs eager 'were the Numi-
dians to purſue him. Several towns and caftles fent de-
puties to meet him upon the road, proffering to furniſh him
with corn, and execute any commands he ſhould lay upon
them; wherefore he encamped that evening, being the
thirteenth of October, at Rufpina.
Το
his tranf-
ports arrive.
7. From thence he marched to Leptis, a free town. Cæfar en
Embafladors came out to meet him, declaring how much camps at
their country was at his difpofal : wherefore having placed which de-
Rufpina,
centurions with ſtrong guards at the gates of the town, to clares for
prevent any foldiers from entering it, and committing vio-him
does Leptis.
lence; he encamped towards the ſhore, not far diſtant from
the place. Hither by accident came his tranfports with Some few of
fome of the gallies: the reft, as they were informed, not
knowing where to land, had been feen off of Utica. In
the mean time CÆSAR, finding himſelf obliged to continue
near the coafts, and not make any expeditions higher up
into the land, for want of the reft of his army, commanded
all the cavalry to remain on board; and fent them freſh wa
ter from ſhore; which, I fuppofe, he did to prevent the
country from being ravaged: but the rowers who landed
to fetch water, were furprized by the Moors; feveral of
them wounded with their darts, and others killed before
d Cal. Jan. the firſt day of the long year confifting of 445 days, which Cal.
Jan, answered to Oct. 13. of the Julian year. See before § 1. Typogr.
our
368
C. J. CÆSAR'S
1
AF
WAR.
FRI C.our party came up to their affiftance: For it is cuſtomary
with the Moors to lie in ambufcade with their horfes in the
vallies, from whence they ſtart out and make their attacks
in the open plain.
He fends to
Sardinia
men and
corn.
Sends Sa-
8. Whilſt theſe affairs were tranfacting, CÆSAR dif-
Sicily and patched couriers to Sardinia and the neighbouring provinces
for ſupplies of men and corn, which they were to fend him
immediately on receipt of his letters; and having unloaded
part of his gallies, detached RABIRIUS POSTHUMUS to Si-
cily for a ſecond ſupply; not omitting at the fame time to
order ten other gallies to cruife in queft of his fcattered fleet,
and to keep the ſea open from the enemy. He likewiſe
commanded C. SALLUSTIUS CRISPUS, the prætor, to fail
luft to Cer-toward Cercina, an iſland in the enemy's hands, where he
underſtood was plenty of corn.
He diftributed all thefe or-
ders fo carefully, that he left no room for excufe or delay.
In the mean while, having notice from the priſoners and de-
ferters of the pofture of SCIPIO's affairs, he pitied the con-
dition of him and his party, who maintained now king
JUBA's cavalry, and were fo infatuated, as to chooſe rather
to be vaffals to a foreign prince, than peaceably enjoy their
own fortunes at home with their fellow-citizens.
cina.
raging.
turns to Ru-
iii Non. Jan.
a. On the fifteenth of October CÆSAR decamped; and
Goes a fo- having left a garriſon of fix cohorts at Leptis, under the
Cæfar de- command of SASERNA, returned again to Rufpina with
camps, re- the reſt of his forces, from whence he came the day before.
camps, re- Here leaving his baggage, he foraged with a light-armed
fpina.
party about the villages, commanding the boors to attend
him with horſes and carriages. Thus having got a fufficient
quantity of corn, he returned again to Rufpina; which I
fuppofe he did, that he might not leave the fea-ports un-
covered behind him, and that he might fecure a retreat
upon occafion to his fhips.
10. Wherefore having left P. SASERNA here with a
garrifon, brother to him whom he had made governor of
Leptis, he commanded ftare of wood to be carried into
the town; then leaving the place, attended by the ſeven ve-
teran cohorts who had behaved themſelves fo well under
SULPICIUS and VATINIUS, he marched to the haven about
Embarks two miles diftant from Rufpina, where he embarked with
with feven them in the evening; which made the whole army very
cohorts; his
inquifitive and uneafy, fince no one was able to guess at
the general's defign. Thus the new levies, who were but
inconfiderable, for all were not yet arrived, finding them-
felves expoſed to a numerous and crafty enemy, had nothing
army very
uneafy.
to
COMMENTARIES.
369
WAR.
to ſupport them under their afflictions, but the unuſual A FRI
mirth and gaiety they obferved in their general's coun-
tenance; for fuch CÆSAR put on in this occafion; from his
conduct therefore and experience they promiſed themſelves
fuccefs.
rives,
II. He continued one night on board; but the next Another
morning early, juſt as he was about to weigh anchor, moſt part of his
unexpectedly arrived that part of his navy which had loft army ar-
its way, and had given him fo much pain. Whereupon
CÆSAR immediately commanded all his foldiers to land
again, and receive the reft as they came on fhore. As foon
then as the fhips were brought into haven, and the horſe He returns
and infantry landed, he returned again to Rufpina, en- to Rufpina,
camped near the town, and leaving the baggage there,
went to forage with thirty cohorts. Now the army per-
ceived CÆSAR's defign was privately to have failed to the
affiſtance of the tranſports which were wanting, and to
prevent their falling in with the enemy's fleet. Nor would
it have been convenient to have made the foldiers he left
behind in garrison acquainted with his defign, left they ſhould
have been terrified with the confideration of the inequality
of their number to that of the enemy.
CHA P. III.
12. CÆSAR had not marched above three miles from Cæfar goes a
his camp, before his ſcouts gave him notice the enemy foraging.
was not far off; which intelligence was foon confirmed by
the duft that appeared. Whereupon he immediately fent
for the horſe and archers; having of the firſt no great num-
ber, and an inconſiderable party of the latter along with
him theſe he commanded to follow after leifurely in good
order, whilſt he went before with a flender guard. So foon
as he arrived within fight of the enemy, he commanded
his foldiers to draw up in order, and make ready for battle;
the whole number he had amounting only to thirty cohorts,
four hundred horſe, and an hundred and fifty archers.
Meets La-
tle.
13. In the mean time the enemy, under the command of
LABIENUS and the two PACIDII, drew out their forces in bienus; who
a very extended front, not ſo much of foot, as of cavalry, draws up in
intermixed with light-armed Numidians and archers, fo order of bat-
cloſely ranged, that at first CÆSAR's army miftook them
all for infantry; both their wings were ftrengthened with
feveral fquadrons of horfe. CAESAR, as he was obliged by Cæfar does
the fmallneſs of his numbers, ranged his army in a fingle the like.
Bb
line;
370
C. J. CÆSAR'S
FRIC. line; placing the archers in the front, and his cavalry in
WAR. each wing; giving the latter particular orders, to take care
they were not ſurrounded by the enemy's numerous horſe :
for he defigned only to engage them with his foot.
round Cæ-
far's army.
14. Both armies expected which fhould begin the charge;
which CESAR thought not his bufinefs; for being fo much
inferior to them in number, he had more occafion to make
Labienus's uſe of ſtratagem than force: when on a fudden the enemy's
cavalry fur-horſe began to extend themſelves upon the hills on either
fide, defigning to furround CÆSAR's cavalry, who could
hardly maintain their ground. In the mean time both the
main bodies advancing to charge each other, the light-
armed Numidian foot, intermixed with horfe, fallied from
their line of battle, and caft their darts amongst our legio-
nary foldiers; but when our men attempted to return their
charge, they immediately retreated, and the foot received
our attack, till the horſe had time to rally, and come again
to their relief.
15. CÆSAR obferving this new way of fighting, con-
fidered his foldiers broke their ranks by advancing too far;
for whenever our foot purfued their cavalry, who retreated
a confiderable way, and eafily evaded our piles by flight, we
were flanked by the Numidians: wherefore he commanded,
that not a foldier fhould move above four foot from his co-
lours. LABIENUS's cavalry all this while, trufting to the
fuperiority of their numbers, were endeavouring to furround
ours; who overpowered at length by the enemy, and having
their horſes wounded under them, began by degrees to give
ground; which made their cavalry purfue with greater ar-
dor. Thus our whole army was in an inſtant ſurrounded,
army caft and, being intangled like beafts in a toil, was obliged to
into an orb. caft itſelf into an orb.
Cæfar's
diſcourſe to
16. LABIENUS rode up and down bare-headed before
his firſt line fometimes encouraging his own men, fome-
Labienus's times fpeaking to CÆSAR's after this manner;
"So ho,
Cæfar's fol. you raw foldier there! why fo very fierce? What, have
diers. CASAR's fair promiſes infpired you with all this courage?
he has brought you into a fine condition! I pity your cafe.'
A foldier's To this, one of the perfons he ſpoke to made anfwer, "He
was no raw foldier, but a veteran of the tenth legion. I
don't ſee your colours, reply'd LABIENUS. No matter
for that, added the foldier, you ſhall quickly know who I
am." Then pulling off his helmet to diſcover his face, and
at the fame inftant darting his pile with the utmoſt vigour
againſt LABIENUS, he gave his horfe a dreadful wound
aniwer.
in
.
COMMENTARIES:
$716
in the breaft: "Now, faid he, LABIENUS, remember it AFRICA
was a foldier of the tenth legion from whoſe arm that javelin WA R.
came.' However the whole army was in great conſter- Cæfar's ar
nation, eſpecially the new levies; who now only turned
their eyes towards CAESAR, and attemped nothing farther great con
than to defend themſelves from the darts of the enemy
my in a
fternation.
in length;
17. At laft CESAR, perceiving the enemy's defign; He orders
commanded his men to extend themſelves in lines as his army to
far as they could, facing about at the fame to form a extend
double front. Thus he broke the enemy's circle with his themselves
right and left wings, and attacking them from both fides at they break
once, after he had received the horſe into the middle of his the enemy'
forces, his infantry caft their piles, and foon obliged the He routs
enemy to fly but purſued not far, becauſe he was appre- Labienus.
henfive of an ambuscade. This action
This action over, the enemy re-
pulfed and wounded, he began to retreat towards his camp,
in order of battle.
urcle.
rive with a
are again rée
18. And now M. PETREIUS and CN. PISO, arrived to Petreius
the affiftance of the enemy, with eleven hundred felect Nu- and Pifo ar
midian horſe, and a confiderable number of foot from the strong party
fame country. This fupply gave them freſh vigour, and toLabienus
having recovered their late diforder, their cavalry again be- affistance.
gan to attack our legions in the rear, endeavouring to ftop They at
their retreat. Upon which CASAR cauſed his forces to face tick Celas
about, and renew the fight in the open plain; but per- again, and
ceiving the enemy fought as they did before, avoiding a pulled.
clofe engagement, and confidering his own cavalry were
but few in number, that their horſes had not yet recovered
their voyage, that they were thirfty, fatigued, and fo dif
ſo
abled by the wounds they had received, that they could purfue
but flowly, and that greateſt part of the day was already
fpent; he encouraged his men to decide the bufinefs at a
blow, nor to defift from purſuing the enemy, till they had
forced them to retreat beyond the fartheft hills, and lodged
themſelves there: wherefore he gave the fignal. The
enemy fighting but faintly, he charged them with his fqua-
drons and cohorts; who, without much difficulty, in a mo-
ment beat them out of the field, and forced them to retreat
beyond the hills. Having poffelfed themſelves of the place,
and ſtayed there a little while, according to their orders
they retired leiſurely to their camp: the enemy, after their
ill fuccefs, did the like.
19. After the difpute was ended, CÆSAR was informed
by deferters of all kinds, who came over to him in great
numbers, as alfo from the enemy's cavalry which he had
Bb 2
taken,
372
C. J. CÆSA R'S
AFRIC. taken, that their defign was to have intimidated his new le
WA R. vies, and the few veteran foldiers he had with him, by that
с
new and unuſual way of fighting; then to have furrounded
and cut them to pieces with their horſe, as they had formerly
ferved CURIO. For LABIENUS in his ſpeech to the foldiers
declared, he would pour in fo many freſh fupplies upon us,
that, being wearied with the flaughter, we ſhould be de-
feated even in the midst of victory. He depended much
upon his numbers, in the first place, becauſe he heard the
veteran legions had mutiny'd at Rome, and refuſed to go
upon the African expedition; and fecondly, becauſe three
years fervice in the country having confirmed his own
foldiers in his intereft, he had reinforced them with great
numbers of Numidian horfe and light-armed infantry; and
beſides the German and French cavalry, which after POM-
PEY's defeat he had brought along with him from Pharfa-
lía, he had levied other troops after his arrival in Africk,
amongſt the freed men, flaves, and fuch as were defcended
by the father's fide from Roman citizens; whom he taught
the uſe of bridles; and had a hundred and twenty of
JUBA's elephants, with innumerable other fquadrons of horfe.
Big with thefe expectations, at the head of fixteen hundred
French and German horſe, eight thouſand Numidians with-
out bridles, eleven hundred other cavalry commanded by
PETREIUS, four times as many infantry and light-armed.
foot, befides confiderable numbers of flingers and archers,
both horfe and foot, did LABIENUS engage CASAR in an
Prid. Non. open and fpacious plain, the fixteenth of October, being the
third after his arrival in Africk. This difpute continued
from eleven o'clock till fun-fet; at which time, PE-
TREIUS, being dangerouſly wounded, was obliged to quit
the battle.
For the
Numidians
ufed none.
Jan.
tifies his
camp.
CHA P. IV.
Cæfar for 20. AFTER this, CÆSAR began to fortify his camp
with greater diligence, to encreaſe the number of the guards,
whoſe buſineſs was to defend the works, and draw a line
of communication on one fide from Rufpina to the fea, the
like on the other from his camp, to fecure the fafer accefs
Preparesvaft for his convoys backward and forward. He likewife gave
quantities of orders the darts and engines fhould be removed from on
arms.
The original is from Brindifi: but that's a palpable error, for Brindisi
was in cæsar's cuſtody long before the battle of Pharfalia. BLADEN. But the
inconfiftency is removed, if we tranflate it, "Which, after POMPEY's defeat,
"he had brought along with him, having before tranfported them from
"Brindifi." However ſee GLANDORPIUS. Typogr.
fhip-
1
COMMENTARIES.
373
WAR.
fhip-board to his camp, with fome of the Rhodian and AFRI C.
French rowers and mariners; whom he furniſhed with arms,
that upon occafion he might mix them among his cavalry,
as the enemy did their light-armed foot: not omitting daily
to encreaſe his forces with ftrong parties of archers from
the Ityrean and Syrian fleets. For he had information, Ityrei or
that SCIPIO was ſet out the third day after the late engage- Ithyræi,peo-
ple of Cœ-
ment, to join his forces with thoſe of LABIENUS and PE lofyria.
TREIUS and that his army confifted of eight legions and
four thouſand horfe. Wherefore CESAR took care to erect
forges for making arms, to prepare plenty of darts, bullets,
and fharp ftakes hardened in the fire; fending meffengers
at the ſame time into Sicily for hurdles, with timber for
battering-rams (becauſe there was but little proper for the
purpoſe in Africk) and lead and iron. He confidered
likewiſe the country would not be able to furniſh him with
corn, for none had been fown the year before, the peaſants
being obliged to bear arms: befides, what provifions there
were in Africk, the enemy had fecured in a few well-
fortified towns, and demoliſhing fuch as were not tenable,
had forced the inhabitants to retire within their works, and
leave their fields deferted.
corn.
21. But CÆSAR, notwithſtanding he laboured under Cæfar wants
thefe difficulties, by his obliging carriage and the eafy ac-
cefs he granted all people, had got a fmall quantity of corn,
which he huſbanded to the beſt advantage. He daily viſited
the works, and conftantly kept a ftrong party of three co-
horts on guard to prevent furprize. LABIENUS about this
time ſent his fick and wounded, which were very numerous,
in waggons to Adrumetum.
lers burnt.
In the mean while, CESAR's victuallers, being difperfed, Several of
failed up and down, not knowing the coaft, or where theirhis victual-
general was encamped: as they straggled from each other,
the enemy's boats attacked, and took or burnt them.
Wherefore CASAR ordered his fleet to cruiſe about the
ports and iſlands for their fecurity.
CHAP. V.
22. AT this time MARCUS CATO, who commanded
in chief at Utica, was daily fpurring young POMPEY forward
to undertake fome noble enterprize. "Your father, faid
he, when arrived at your age, feeing the commonwealth
harraffed by impious and daring citizens, who had either
ban ifhed, or put to death, the moft worthy of their country-
Bb 3
men;
1
374
C. J. CÆSARIS
AFRIC,men; prompted by glory, and the greatnefs of his mind, tho?
WAR. only a private man and very young, gathered the fmall re-
mains of his father's army, and 'reftored Rome and Italy to
their ancient liberty, which had been funk almoft to the brink
of deftruction: afterwards with incredible diſpatch re-
duced Sicily, Africk, Numidia, and Mauritania; by which
actions he acquired a glorious name throughout the uni-
verfe, triumphing whilft he was a youth, and only a Roman
knight. Nor did he enter into the world with thoſe ad
vantages you enjoy; his father had hot laid a foundation
for that fame his fon acquired, his anceſtors were not of that
dignity, he had not fo many clients, nor was of fo confi-
derable quality as you. Will not you therefore, who inherit
his honour and glory, who want neither greatneſs of mind,
nor induſtry, fummon all his friends together, and by fomé
vigorous effort affert your own liberty, with that of the
commonwealth, and all faithful citizens ?".
23. Moved with this advice, which proceeded from fo
grave and auftere à perfon, young POMPEY, with a fleet of
thirty fhips of feveral kinds, amongſt which number were
only a few gallies, failed from Utica to Mauritania, where
he entered the country of king BOGUD. Leaving his bag-
gage behind him, with an army of two thousand men,
compoſed of freemen and flaves, part with arms, and part
YoungPom- without, he marched towards Afcurum, where the king
cefslefs at- had left a garrifon. The inhabitants having notice of
tempt upon POMPEY's arrival, fuffered him to approach their walls;
Afcurum. then making an unexpected fally, defeated his forces, and
pey's fuc-
-
•
obliged them to retire with precipitation to their fhips.
Upon this ill fucceſs young POMPEY weighed anchor, and
not thinking it convenient to touch again upon thofe
coafts, directed his courfe towards Majorca and Minorca.
CHAP. VI.
24. SCIPIO, in the mean while, having left a ſtrong
garrifen in Utica, marched with the army we mentioned
before to Adrumetum, where he encamped; but after a
few days continuance there, purfuing his journey in the
night, he join'd PETREIUS and LABIENUS, who lodg'd
all their forces in one camp, extending three miles in
length. Their cavalry frequently made excurfions round
cur works, and intercepting thofe that ſtraggled too far for
wood or water, obliged us to continue within our fortifi-
cations. This reduced CASAR's army to great neceffities,
for
COMMENTARIES.
375
for the convoys from Sicily and Sardinia were not yet ar- AFRIC.
rived; the ſeaſon of the year would not permit any fhip to WAR.
put to fea without imminent danger; nor had CÆSAR
Forage
above the ſpace of fix miles every way in Africk, which fearce with
made forage very fcarce. But the veteran foldiers and ca- Cæfar.
valry, who had been engaged in many wars both by ſea and
land, and had frequently encounter'd the like hardſhips and
dangers before, gathering weeds on the fhore, waſhed them.
in freſh water, and with fuch provender preſerved the lives
of the horſes and cattle.
25. Whilſt affairs were in this pofture, king JUBA, un- Juba
derſtanding what difficulties CASAR had to ftruggle with, marches to
thought it not convenient to allow him refpite till he ſhouldjoin Scipio ;
receive freſh ſupplies. Wherefore having gathered a con-
fiderable number of horfe and infantry, he refolved to leave
his country, and go to the affiftance of his friends. But
whilft he was upon his march, P. SITIUS and king BOGUD
joining forces, advanced towards the frontiers of his king-
dom, and fate down before Citra, the richest town in his
territories, which they reduced in a few days after their
arrival. The like fuccefs they had over two other towns
of the Getulians, which they won by ftorm, and put all
the inhabitants to the fword, having firft offered them leave
to quit the place with their effects, which they refuſed.
After this they began to lay the country wafte on every but on no-
fide. Upon notice whereof JUBA, when he was already tice Bogud
arrived within a ſmall diſtance of SCIPIO's camp, confider- had entered
ing it was more neceffary to defend his own country, than dom, re-
affift his neighbours, left perhaps he might receive a double turns.
defeat, defifted from his journey; and folicitous for his af-
fairs at home, recalled his forces from SCIPIO, leaving only
thirty elephants behind him, and haftened to preſerve his
towns from falling into the enemy's hands.
his king-
26. CASAR perceiving the province ſtill doubted of his Cæfar dif
arrival, under an imagination that he had only fent one of perfes his
his lieutenants with the forces to Africk, but was not there circular let-
himſelf in perſon, difperfed his circular letters to remove ters, to let
the province
this error. Upon which feveral perfons of the greateſt know he is
quality, from all the towns round about, came to his camp, arrived.
bringing melancholy accounts of the cruel treatment they
had met with from the enemy. Moved by their tears,
CASAR refolved, fo foon as he received the rest of his forces,
and the ſeaſon of the year would permit, to quit his forti-
fications, and take the field. Wherefore he immediately
fent orders to ALLIENUS the prætor, and RABIRIUS
Bb 4
POST-
376
C. J. CÆSAR'S
AFRIC. POSTHUMUS at Sicily, which he diſpatched in a fmalf
WAR. pinnace, that they fhould forthwith, without any excuſe
L
Cæfar's im-
of the rest of
his forces,
of the winds or feafon, caufe the reft of his army to be
tranſported, otherwife Africk would be over run by the
enemy; and if he did not quickly come to the affiftance of
his friends, SCIPIO's cruelty would not leave them a fingle
houfe to retire to. So impatient was he for the arrival of
patience for his forces, that the very day after he had diſpatched this
the arrival packet, he complained they loft time; ftill keeping his
eyes and thoughts intent upon the fea, day and night,
without intermiffion. Nor without reaſon; for every mo-
ment brought him freſh accounts of the burning of villages,
laying of countries wafte, killing and carrying off cattle,
facking and deferting of towns and caſtles, impriſoning or
maffacring the chief inhabitants, and making their children
captives, under the prètence of hoftages; but whilft his
army was ſo ſmall, he was not able to relieve from their
afflictions thoſe who implored his affiſtance. However,
to keep his foldiers employed, he commanded them to go
on with the fortifications, and having built forts and caſtles,
caſt up a mole into the ſea.
The way of 27.
exercising
elephants. cifing his elephants, which he performed by drawing two
parties up in order of battle; one of flingers, which was to
act the enemy's part, and caft ſmall ftones at the elephants;
behind whom he diſpoſed his own army, that when the un-
wieldy beafts were frightened, and endeavoured to turn
upon their friends, they might be driven back again by the
fingers, and obliged to face about towards the enemy.
But he found it a difficult matter to inftruct ſuch uncouth
animals for elephants, after many years teaching, are very
inexpert, and are brought into the field at the equal hazard
of both parties.
In the mean while SCIPIO was induftrious in exer-
:
CHAP.
VII.
28. WHILST both generals were thus employed near
Rufpina, C. VIRGILIUS PRÆTORIUS, who was governor
of Thapfus, a fea-port town, on notice that ſeveral of cÆ-
SAR's tranſports ſtraggled up and down the fea, not know-
ing what haven to put into, laying hold of the opportunity,
Virgilius manned a galley and fome pinnaces, with foot and archers,
takes fome and refolved to purfue CESAR's fhips wherever he met
of Cafar's them fingle. Several he attacked with
ill fuccefs, being
Straggling
Ships. beaten and forced to fly; but ftill he did not defift from
·
the
}
COMMENTARIES.
377
WAR.
The two
to death af
the enterprize. At last, by accident, he came up with aAFRIC.
veffel, where the two TITI, young Spaniards, tribunes of
the fifth legion, were on board, whoſe father CÆSAR had
made a fenator. In their company likewife was T. SA-Titi taken.
LIENUS, who had befieged lieutenant M. MESSALA at Sent to Sci-
Meffina, and making a virulent fpeech againft CASAR, Pio, and put
had cauſed the money and ornaments defigned for his tri- ter quarter
umph, to be ſtopped. Confcious therefore of his guilt, given.
and apprehenfive of the puniſhment his crimes deferved, he
perfuaded the two brothers to make no refiftance, but fur-
render to VIRGILIUS. They were no fooner in his cu-
ftody, but he conveyed them to SCIPIO, who immediately
fent them to priſon, and three days after gave orders for
putting them to death. It is faid, when the centurion led
them to execution, the eldeſt defired the favour to be firſt
diſpatched, which he obtained, and thus they ended their
lives.
cavalry on
29. In the mean while the out-guards of the cavalry on Frequent
both fides had frequent ſkirmiſhes; but fometimes LABIE-fkirmishes
NUS's French and German horſe, upon parole given, con- between the
verfed with CÆSAR'S. About the fame time LABIENUS, both fides.
with a strong party of cavalry, went to ftorm Leptis, where Labienus's
SASERNA commanded with three cohorts, which the be- vain attempt
fieged eaſily defended; for the place was well fortified, and upon Leptis.
ftored with plenty of engines. However, the enemy made.
frequent attempts, till by chance the captain of a ftrong
fquadron, who had pofted themſelves before the gates, was
killed by a well-directed fhot from a fcorpion; whereupon
the reſt being frightened, immediately retired to their camp,
without ever daring to approach the walls again.
30. Whilſt this affair was in tranfaction, SCIPIO drew Scipio's
his army out every day, about three hundred paces diftance bravado's.
from his camp; where having ſpent the greateft part of
the day, he returned again at night. This he did fre-
quently; and obferving none of CÆSAR's forces moved
beyond their trenches, or advanced towards his, defpifing
his enemy's patience, he ranged all his troops in battle ar-
ray, with his thirty elephants that carried caſtles on their
backs; then extending his horfe and foot as wide as poffi-
ble, led them almoſt up to CÆSAR's trenches.
31. Whereupon CÆSAR recalled all his foldiers that were What or-
gone to fetch forage, wood, or other materials for the ders Cæfar
works, commanding they fhould retire leifurely without gave when
confufion, and afcend the rampier: but he ordered the out-out.
guards of horſe to continue in their poft, till the enemy
fhould
Scipio drew
378
C. J. CÆSAR'S
AFRIC. fhould arrive aloft within reach of their javelins; if they
WAR. came nearer, then to retire within the works in as good
order as they could: he likewiſe inftructed the reſt of his
cavalry where they ſhould repair to their arms, and attend
his farther commands. Nor did he trouble himſelf to
mount the rampier, or diſtribute theſe orders publickly by
word of mouth; but being extremely well fkilled in the art
military, he directed every thing in his tent, fending his ad-
jutants to perform what he thought convenient; for he re-
membered how often he had defeated, forgiven, and granted
the enemy quarter, when they were infinitely fuperior to
him in number; therefore took it for granted, they never
would be fo hardy to attempt his trenches, whilſt his fingle
name and authority was fufficient to daunt a confiderable
part of their army. Befides the ftrength of his fortifica-
tions, the depth of the ditch, the height of the rampier, and
the f fharp fpikes diſpoſed in the ground after a wonderful
manner, were fufficient, without the foldiers affiftance, to
have prevented the enemy's accefs. He was likewife plen-
tifully ſtored with all kinds of darts, and engines necef-
fary for a vigorous defence. Nor had he made theſe pre-
parations for fear of the enemy, as they believed, but
becauſe his own forces were raw and inconfiderable.
Neither did the fmallnefs of his numbers, their want of
difcipline, or diftruft of victory, prevent his engaging them,
but a reflection on the conqueft he ſhould obtain. For
he thought it below his dignity, to have it reported he had
won a bloody victory over the poor remains of his enemy's
defeated troops, after having atchieved fo many glorious
actions, and routed fuch mighty armies. He refolved there-
fore to endure their infolence, till fome part of his veteran
legions fhould arrive by the ſecond convoy.
Scipio files
off again to
his camp.
1
b
32. But SCIPIO having for fome time continued in the
poſture we mentioned, in contempt of CAESAR's forces,
made his own file off by degrees to their camp; where
having affembled them, he made an harangue, to inform
them what a terror they had ftruck into their enemy, what
a defperate condition they were in, and encouraged them
by the hopes of a ſpeedy victory. CAESAR, on the other
hand, commanded his men to proceed with the works,
under which pretence he kept the new levies employed.
f Styli cæci, the fame with the Stimuli at the fiege of Alife.
Scorpions and Catapult.
n Here our author takes abundance of pains to compliment .CÆSAR at the
pence of his own discretion,
CHAP.
}
COMMENTARIES.
379
k
CHAP.
VIII.
WAR,
Deferters
come over to
THE Numidians and Getulians daily deferted from AFRIC
CIPIO's camp, fome returning home, others coming over
to CASAR in whole companies, becauſe they and their
anceſtors had been infinitely obliged to C. MARIUS, whoſe
kinfman they heard CASAR was. Having pitched upon Cæfar from
fome of theſe that were of the beft quality, he fent them the Getu-
back to their own country, with letters to the feveral ſtates
where they lived, encouraging them to take arms in de-
fence of their liberties, and be no longer impofed on by the
enemy's fpeeches.
lians.
Cæfar.
33. Whilft affairs at Rufpina were in this pofture, the Achilla de
free city of Achilla, and feveral other places, fent embaf- clares for
fadors to CESAR, promifing readily to fubmit to his com-
mands, provided he would fend them garrifons for their
fecurity and they in return would, for the advantage of
the common cauſe, fupply him with corn, and fuch other
provifions as their countries afforded. Their demands were
readily agreed to, for CESAR immediately detached c.
MESSIUS, who had lately borne the office of edile, with
the forces defired, to Achilla. CONSIDIUS LONGUS, go- Confidius's
vernor of Adrumetum, who had two legions and fix hun- defign upon.
red horſe under his command, having notice of this, left Achilla dif
part of the garriſon behind to fecure the town, and fet for- appointed.
ward with twelve cohorts for Achilla; but MESSIUS march-
ing with more expedition, arrived there before him. Con-
SIDIUS therefore, on his approach to the town, perceiving
the place was poffeffed by a garrifon of CAESAR's, thought
it not convenient to attempt a ſtorm; fo returned again to
Adrumetum without effecting any thing, confidering the
number of forces he had with him. Though fome few
days after, receiving a reinforcement of horſe from LABIE-
NUS, he returned again to Achilla, and began to inveſt it.
at Cæfar'.
34. About the fame time c. SALLUSTIUS CRISPUS, Some fup-
whom CESAR fent (as we have already remarked) fome few plies arrive
days before with a fleet to Cercina, arrived there. Where- camp.
upon c. DECIMUS the quæftor, who had been left with a
ftrong party, chiefly compofed of his own fervants, to fe-
cure the corn, got a ſmall veffel, embarked and made his
efcape. SALLUSTIUS was well received by the natives,
and finding among them great plenty of corn, loaded the
ſhips which were there in great numbers, and returned to
CAESAR. In the mean time the proconful ALLIENUS had
caufed
380
C. J. CÆSAR'S,
AFRIC.caufed the twelfth and fifteenth legions, with eight hundred
WAR. French cavalry, a thoufand archers and flingers, to em-
bark; whom he fent away to CASAR with a ſecond ſupply
of corn this fleet having a fair wind, arrived fafe at Ruf-
pina in four days time, where CESAR lay encamped. Thus
he enjoyed at the fame inftant a double fatisfaction from a
fupply of men and corn; and the foldiers apprehenfions of
want of provifions being now removed, he received the
legions and the cavalry on fhore, that they might recover
from the fatigue and ſickneſs of their voyage, and then di-
ftributed them into the caftles, and upon the works.
Cæfar's
'Scipio fends
35. SCIPIO and his party, whilft CASAR was thus em-
pies into ployed, were ftrangely furprized, and could not conceive
camp; but the reafon, why he, who always uſed to be ſo ready to en-
they betray gage the enemy, and offer battle of his own accord, ſhould
him.
‹‹
now decline it; which they fufpected not to be done with-
out fome deep defign. His patience made them very un-
easy; wherefore having chofen two Getulians, whom they
thought firm to their intereft, they encouraged them by
confiderable rewards and promifes, to go over to the enemy,
under pretence of deſerting, and to ſend intelligence. But
when they were brought before CASAR, they defired leave
freely to declare their minds without offence; which being
The defer- granted, thus they began. Several of our countrymen,
ters fpeech
to Cafar. the Getulians, noble generaliffimo, who are entirely devoted
to the family of the MARII, with almoſt all the Roman citi-
zens of the fourth and fixth legions, would come over to
your camp, were they not prevented by the guard of Nu-
midian horſe. But we, who are fent by sSCIPIO
fpies to learn the pofture of your affairs, and to diſcover
what ditches or traps you had diſpoſed before your trenches
for his elephants, and how you defigned to engage thoſe
beaſts, gladly accepted of the office, that we might gain
an opportunity of deferting in reality." CAESAR, having
praiſed and rewarded their candid dealing, fent them to
the other deferters, and quickly found the truth of their in-
telligence confirmed; for the day after, feveral foldiers of
the legions they named, came over to his camp.
Cato's dili-
gence at
Utica,
Tifdra de
clares for
Catar.
-
as
36. Thus ſtood affairs at Rufpina, whilft MARCUS CA-
To, who commanded at Utica, cauſed new levies daily to
be made amongst the natives, freemen, flaves, and all forts
of people that were able to bear arms, whom he had no
fooner raiſed, but he ſent them away to SCIPIO. In the
mean time deputies arrived from Tifdra, in which town
the Italian merchants and farmers of the country had laid
4
up
COMMENTARIES.
381
•
up three thouſand bufhels of corn; the defign of which AFRIC.
embaffy was to acquaint CÆSAR how well they were ſtored WAR.
with proviſions, and to defire he would fend a garrison to
defend them. He returned them many thanks for their
friendſhip, and promifed fhortly to fend the garrifon they
defired; then commending their fidelity, fent them back
to their countrymen. About the fame time P. SI- Sitius takes
TIUS entered Numidia, and reduced a ftrong fort, fituate a magazine
on a hill, by ſtorm, where JUBA had laid in plenty of of Juba's.
corn, and other provifions for the war.
CHA P. IX.
37. CÆSAR having now augmented his army with
two veteran legions, befides the horfe and light-armed in-
fantry which arrived by the fecond convoy; he ſent fix
tranſports to Lilybæum for the remainder of his forces.
On the fixth of November, he commanded his fcouts and vi. Cal. Feb.
lictors to be ready to attend him by fix that evening, and
without acquainting any one of his defign, left orders Cæfar de-
the legions ſhould be drawn out about three the next morn- camps.
ing, and follow him to Rufpina, the first town which had
declared for him in Africk, where he had a garrifon.
Thence, having paffed an eaſy deſcent on the left, he
marched towards the fea. Here was a valley wonderfully
even, which extended fifteen miles, half encompaffed by
a ridge of a moderate height, though very long, which re-
fembled the form of a theatre; on the top of this mountain
were a few ſmall eminences, on each of which forts and
watch-towers had formerly been erected, and at the fartheft
of theſe were SCIPIO's out-guards pofted.
Gains a fa-
38. So foon as CESAR had rendered himſelf maſter of
this ridge, he began to build turrets on every one of the mous ridge,
little hills; which he effected in lefs than half an hour. But fortifies it.
when he approached the laſt eminence, where, as I have
already obferved, lay a Numidian guard, he made a pauſe,
to obferve the fituation of the place; then having caufed his
cavalry to mount the guard, he ordered the foot to draw
a line of communication along the middle of the ridge to
his camp. Which SCIPIO and LABIENUS obferving, they The enemy
drew out all their horſe, and difpofing them in order of draw ont
battle, advanced about a mile from their fortifications, then with a defign
ranged their infantry in a fecond line, about four hundred to-interrupt
paces from the camp.
his works.
་
39. CÆSAR, not in the leaft difmay'd at the fuperiority v. Cal. Feb.
Of Nov. 7
1
382
C. J. CÆSAR'S
"
ÅF R 1 C. of their numbers, commanded his foldiers to proceed with
WAR. the lines but being informed the enemy, who were al-
ready arrived within a mile and a half, ftill approached
with a defign to interrupt and force our foldiers from the
works (which would neceffarily oblige him to draw off the
He detaches legions) he detached a ſquadron of Spaniſh horſe, and ſome
a party of light-armed infantry to fupport them, with orders to at-
Spaniſh
horfe to gain tack the enemy's party on the nearest hill immediately,
a poft, which and lodge themſelves there. They made fo vigorous a
they do.
charge, that they quickly took or put to fight the Numi-
advances to dians who guarded the poft, and carried the place. LA-
fuftain his BIENUS, obferving the rout and confufion of his men,
party, but is advanced with the greateſt part of his cavalry in the right
furrounded,
and his men wing to their affiftance: but CÆSAR laying hold of the
cut off by occafion, when LABIENUS had marched fome diſtance
Cæfar's best from his army, detached his left to furround and cut him
Labienus
wing.
off.
40. In the valley, where this difpute happened, was a
village fortified with four turrets, which prevented LA-
BIENUS from difcovering CÆSAR's motions; fo that he
neither knew he was furrounded, nor faw our horſe, till he
found himſelf attacked in the rear. The furprize ftruck ſo
great a terror into the Numidians, that they immediately
fled, and made the beſt of their way towards the camp:
but the Gauls and Germans, who endeavoured to maintain
their ground, being charged on all fides, after a vigorous
reſiſtance; were every man of them cut to pieces. At
which SCIPIO's legions, who were drawn out before their
works, were fo terrified, that they immediately retired
with great precipitation into their camp at every gate.
SCIPIO and his forces thus obliged to quit the plain as well
as the higher ground, and fly for fhelter to their trenches,
CÆSAR founded a retreat. When the field was empty,
he beheld the prodigious bodies of the Gauls and Germans,
who had followed LABIENUS out of France, part volun-
teers, part induced by money or promifes, and others out
of gratitude; who having obtained quarter after CURIO's
defeat, were refolved to return the favour by a cloſe ad-
herence to his fortune. The carcafes of theſe men lay dif
perfed over the plain, remarkable for their bulk and afpect.
41. The day after this action, CESAR drew all his
Cæfar draws forces out of the caftles, and difpofed them in order of bat-
towards U-tle in the field; but SCIPIO having had ſo many men killed
out, marches
zita.
and wounded the day before, did not think convenient to
move beyond his trenches. CESAR, marching flowly by
the
COMMENTARIES.
383
WAR.
the foot of the mountain, approached nearer his works. Á FRIC.
He was already arrived within lefs than a mile of Uzita, a
town in the enemy's poffeffion, when SCIPIO, folicitous
for the preſervation of fo important a place, from whence Scipio does
the like, but
his army was fupplied with water and many other necef- ho engage-
faries, drew out his forces, and difpofed them in four fe- ment hap-
veral lines; the firft, according to his ufual cuftom, was pens,
compoſed of cavalry, and armed elephants with caftles on
their backs. In this order he marched to relieve the place;
which CESAR perceiving, imagined SCIPIO was now re-
folved to give him battle. But he found himſelf miſtaken ;
for the enemy, making a halt, covered their main body
with the town, leaving only the two wings expofed, where
the elephants were ranged in full view of our army.
42. CESAR had now attended SCIPIO's motions till al-
moſt fun-fet, when obferving he advanced no nearer him,
defigning rather to defend himſelf by the advantage of his
poft, if occafion fhould be, than venture a battle in the
open field; thought it not proper that day to march nearer
the town, which covered the greateſt part of the enemy's
army, and wherein they had a ftrong garrifon of Numi-
dians. For he judged it almoſt impracticable at once to
affault Uzita, and engage both the enemy's wings in a
diſadvantageous place; eſpecially fince his own foldiers had
continued in arms all that day without eating: wherefore
retiring to his camp, the day following he began to extend
his lines nearer the town.
CHAP. X.
43.
IN the mean time CONSIDIUS, who had long be-
fieged Achilla with eight cohorts of mercenary Getulians.
and Numidians, where c. MESSIUS Commanded in chief;
having made many efforts, and raiſed confiderable works,
which were always deftroyed by the befieged; finding his
labour ſpent in vain, on advice of the engagement between
the horſe of both armies, was fo diſturbed, that ſetting fire
to his corn, whereof he had plenty, and deftroying his
wine, oil, and ſuch other provifions as he had in ftore, he
quitted the fiege; then marching through Numidia, di-
vided his forces with SCIPIO, and returned to Adrumetum.
Cæfar's
44. Whilſt CESAR was thus employed, one of the tranf-
ports, which ALLIENUS had fent with the fecond ſupply ships taken.
from Sicily, where Q COMINIUS, and L. TICIDA, a Ro-
man knight, were embarked, being ſeparated by foul wea-
3
ther
384
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
AFRIC.ther from the rest of the convoys, was forced into Thapfus,
where VIRGILIUS, having fitted out fome boats and ſmall
veffels, took her, and fent all the perfons on board to sci-
PIO. A three-banked galley likewife ftraying from the
fleet, was driven by the winds to Ægimurus; and falling in
with VARUS and OCTAVIUS's fquadron, was taken. In
this veffel were fome veteran foldiers, with a centurion, and
a few new levies, whom VARUS, without fuffering any in-
jury to be offered them, fent away to SCIPIO.
So foon as
Scipio's
fpeech to
the pri-
foners.
The brave
centurion's
anfwer.
t
they came into his prefence, and ſtood before his chair of
ftate, "I am fatisfied, faid he, it is by the inftruction and
command of your impious general, you are compelled to
purſue the lives of your beft countrymen; not of your own
accord. But fince fortune has put you into our power, if
you will perform your duty, and defend the republick, in
concert with the reft of her worthy members, you fhall
not only have your lives pardoned, but receive rewards
ſuitable to your ſervice: fpeak therefore, the fentiments of
your hearts.”
45. SCIPIO, having ended his gracious ſpeech, doubted
not in the leaſt but they would return him many thanks
for his merciful proffer: but received this anfwer from the
centurion. "SCIPIO (for Generaliffimo I cannot call you) I
I thank you for proffering me life and liberty, though I am
your prifoner by right of war; and perhaps I might accept
your favour, could I do it without being guilty of the baſeſt
crime. Shall I draw my fword againſt CESAR my
Generaliffimo, under whom I have had the honour to
command a company, and to maintain whoſe glory I
have borne arms above theſe ſixteen years? No! far be it
from me; and, as a friend, I would adviſe you to deſiſt
from your enterprizes: for if you are yet ignorant with whom
you contend, I will acquaint you. Chooſe the beſt cohort
in your army, allow me only the liberty to ſelect ten of my
fellow-foldiers now in your cuftody; let us engage, and
from our courage you ſhall form a judgment, what you may
expect from your forces.'
>>
46. The centurion having thus boldly declared his mind,
SCIPIO, ftung with the affront, and enraged to the laſt de-
gree, nodded to the officers about him to perform his or-
Scipio puts ders, and caufed the centurion to be killed at his feet;
him to
death.
the veteran foldiers he commanded to be ſeparated from
the new levies. "Take away thofe hardened wretches,
ſaid he, whofe hands have been imbrued in the blood of
their fellow-citizens." Accordingly they were carried out
of
COMMENTARIES.
385
As for the new AFRICz
of the camp, and barbaroufly murdered.
raiſed men, he diftributed them amongſt his own troops,
but would not fuffer COMINIUS and TICIDA to come into
his prefence. CÆSAR, extremely concerned at this ac-
cident, caſhier'd, and publiſhed a ſevere edict againſt the
captains of that ſquadron, which he ordered to cruiſe about
Thapfus for the fecurity of his tranfports and gallies.
WAR.
ftorm,
47. About this time fomething very furprifing happened to The great
CAESAR's army. At the beginning of winter, about
November 11°, at nine o'clock at night, a violent tempeft
aroſe, attended by a dreadful ſhower of hail. To add to
this misfortune, CASAR had not, like other generals, dif-
poſed his forces into winter-quarters, but decamping every
three or four days, lodged himſelf in a different poft, nearer
the enemy; and the foldiers were fo employed about the
works, that they had not an opportunity of taking care of
themſelves. Befides, he had tranfported his army out of
Sicily with fo much expedition, that they were allowed to
bring nothing with them but their armour, neither flaves,
baggage, nor any thing which might have been ſerviceable
to them: what little proviſions they had, were already con-
fumed, nor could the country, where they were, furniſh
them with more. Reduced to this neceffity, a very few
were ſo happy as to lie under tents of ſkins, others were
obliged to erect little huts, which they covered with reeds
or their own cloaks. Thus furprized by the ftorm, beaten
• Vergiliæ or Pleiades, the feven flars, that fome piace in the tail, others in
the neck of the bull; which the poets feign to be the daughters of ATLAS OF
LYCURGUS. The editor of the Dauphin's edition produces two or three
manuſcripts to make this Vigiliarum; then the latin will runt thus, Vigiliarum
confecto figno, circiter vigilia fecunda nois: which is a more tautological way
of expreflion than HIRTIUS is uſually guilty of. Others again have found out
many difficulties in reconciling this text to aftronomy. But for my part, I can-
not conceive why the word Vergiliæ fhould be changed: nor, in my opinion,
does it betray the author's ignorance of the courfe of the stars, as monfieur
D'ABLANCOURT fancies, who from hence infers an error in the ancient Calen-
dar.
For the Vergilise fet exactly at the time mentioned by HIRTIUS in
Africk, when CESAR was alive; viz. about nine or ten at night, at the latter
end of January, or beginning of February, when, by computation, this action
happened, though now indeed they fet fome hours later. BLADEN: But we
don't yet rid of the tautology by this interpretation, the Virgilise being fet about
nine o'clock at night, which is only a twofold manner of expreffing the fame
hour. HIRTIUS would not, like an almanac maker, compute the daily
aftronomical fetting of the Vergilia, if he could; but, like an hiftorian, ſpeaks
of the annual popular one. The ancients, in fixing the commencement of the
four feafons of the year, made the occafus Vergiliarum to denote the first day
of winter, differently placed by them at November 8, 10, or 11.
HIRTIUS
having, § 37 to 43, mentioned what CESAR did November 6, and the three
following days; and § 43-47, the tranſactions elſewhere; fubjoins here this
remarkable incident about November 11, viz. at that feafon of the year when
the Vergilia had done fetting cofmice or with the fun. See Dr. Afhton, as be-
fore. Typogr.
C G
with
386
C. J. CÆSA R'S
AFRIC. with hail-ftones, and almoft drowned with water, their fires.
WAR. extinguifhed, and provifions fpoiled, they ran up and down
the camp, defending their heads, as they could, with their
fhields. This night likewife the tops of the fifth legion's
piles took fire of themſelves.
Cæfar ex-
enus's am-
CHA P. XI.
48. JUBA by this time had advice of the defeat lately
received by SCIPIO's horfe, and being much preffed to
come to his affiftance, left his general SABURA, with part
of his army, to act against SITIUS; and thinking his pre-
fence might free the armies of his allies from the dread
they had of CASAR'S, marched with three legions, eight
hundred horſe with bridles, fome Numidians without, a
great number of light-armed infantry, and thirty elephants,
to join them. When he arrived there, he pitched his own
camp, with the forces I mentioned, at no great diſtance
from SCIPIO'S. CAESAR's foldiers had long been uneafy at
the apprehenfion of JUBA's army, and the nearer he ap-
proached, the more pain they were in. But after he had
taken up his quarters clofe by them, their fears immediately
vaniſhed, and they defpifed him. However, we plainly
diſcovered SCIPIO was not a little encouraged by his rein-
forcement; for the day after he drew out both armies into
the field, with fixty elephants, which he difpofed to the beſt
advantage; then advancing feveral paces before his camp,
ſtaid in that poſture ſome time, and retired again within his
trenches.
49. CESAR, perceiving SCIPIO had now received all
tends his the forces he expected, concluded a battle would ſoon en-
lines, after
having de- fue; therefore began to advance nearer him along the ridge
feated Labi- of the mountain, extending his lines, and erecting forts
upon every eminence he made himſelf mafter of. But the
enemy, depending on their numbers, gained the next hill,
and prevented our progreſs any farther: this they did by
LABIENUS's advice, who, lying neareft the place, took
care to fee his own defign executed.
bufcade.
50. Before CESAR could arrive at the mountain, which
he defired to poffefs, he was obliged to pafs a large plain of
deep defcent, wherein were feveral hollow places much re-
fembling caves, beyond which was an olive wood. LABI-
ENUS therefore confidering CESAR muft of neceffity march
this way, and being well acquainted with the place, difpofed
an ambuſh of horfe and light-armed infantry there; placing
I
at
COMMENTARIES.
387
at the fame time a ſtrong party of cavalry behind the hills, A FRIC.
that ſo foon as he attacked CASAR's foot, the cavalry WAR.
might advance from behind the mountain: ſo that being
charged both in front and rear, and furrounded on all fides,
the enemy muft of neceffity be cut to pieces. CESAR,
ignorant of this ambufcade, commanded his horfe to march
before, who arrived at the place, when LABIEN US's men,
either forgetting or neglecting to perform their orders, or ap-
prehending they ſhould be killed by our foldiers in the ditch,
began to appear in fmall parties, and, quitting their holes, to
afcend the hill. But CAESAR's horfe purfuing, flew part,
took others priſoners; then making towards the hill, beat
the enemy from their poft, and lodged themfelves there.
LABIENUS, attended by a fmall party of cavalry, with
much difficulty made his eſcape.
munication
51. The horſe having fo well performed their parts, CA Draws a
SAR diftributed the work amongst the foot, commanding line of com-
them to lay out a camp there, and to draw two lines of com- from his old
munication croſs the plain to his former camp over-againſt camp to
Uzita, which parted it from SCIPIO's: thefe lines were fo Uzita.
contrived as to meet at the right and left angle of the town.
The reaſon why he made theſe works was, that, when his
forces fhould approach the walls, and begin the ſtorm, they
might be fecure from being furrounded by the enemy's
horfe, which would otherwife oblige them to quit the af-
fault. Befides, by this means his foldiers had more frequent
opportunities of conferring with their forces; and fuch as
had a mind to defert, which they could not before without
imminent danger, might now do it with greater fecurity.
Nor were theſe the only reafons which induced him to this
refolution; for he knew, being nearer the enemy, he ſhould
now diſcover whether they detigned to fight him; and the
place he had taken up his quarters in, lying much lower
than that he lately came from, he might with greater eaſe
fink wells there, whereas. before he was obliged to fend a
long and troubleſome way for water. Whilft the legions
were employed about theſe works, part of the army
ftood in
order of battle before the trenches, fkirmishing with the
Numidian horfe, and light-armed infantry.
52. In the evening, when cis.. R drew his forces from
the works, defiguing to retire to his former camp, JUBA,
SCIPIO, and LABIENUS, made an unexpected charge upon
them with all their cavalry and light-armed foot. Our
horſe at firſt, over-powered with numbers, began to give
ground; but the affair fell out much contrary to what the
Cc2
enemy
388
C. J. CÆSAR'S
f
AFRIC.my expected: for cÆSAR immediately halted, and ad-
WAR. vanced with the legions to fuftain his cavalry; who, af-
He breaks
cers.
fuming freſh courage upon his arrival, faced about, and
charged the Numidians with fo much vigour, whilſt they
were difperfed with the purfuit, that they killed great num-
bers, wounded others, and obliged the whole party to re-
treat in great precipitation to their camp: fo that if the
night and duft, which prevented our feeing, had not put an
end to the difpute, JUBA with LABIEN US had certainly
been taken, and all their horfe and light-armed infantry en-
tirely cut off. In the mean time SCIPIO's men, of the
fourth and fixth legions, daily came over to CÆSAR in great
numbers, fome to his camp, others to fuch places as lay
moft convenient for them. The horſe likewiſe, which had
ſerved under CURIO, diftrufting SCIPIO's fuccefs, followed
the others example.
CHAP.
XII.
53. WHILST both generals were thus employed at
Uzita, the ninth and tenth legion, who embarked in the
tranſports at Sicily, were already arrived at the harbour of
Rufpina; when defcrying CASAR's fhips which lay at an-
chor about Thapfus, they mistook them for the enemy's;
and put out again to ſea, for fear of falling into the hands
of thofe, who, they imagined, lay there in order to furprize
them. Many days they were toffed up and down by the
winds, till almoft fpent with drought and hunger at laſt
they arrived ſafe at the camp.
54. So foon as they landed, CESAR, remembering the dif-
feveral offi- orders in Italy, and rapine committed by fome particular
perfons, was glad of the leaft occaſion to puniſh them for
it; wherefore becauſe C. AVIENUS, a tribune of the tenth
legion, had taken up one entire veffel for the uſe of his
family and equipage, without bringing a ſingle foldier along
with him from Sicily, he fummoned all the officers of the
army to attend him the day after, and in their prefence from
his tribunal faid, "I could heartily wiſh ſome perſons would
at laft have prefcribed bounds to their infolence and ill
manners, and that they would have no longer tempted my
patience and good-nature. But fince they have not had
the prudence to correct their irregularities, I fhall myfelf
do it for them, that they may ferve for an example to the
reft of the army. Firft, CAIUS AVIENUS, becauſe you
have inftigated the Roman foldiers againſt the republick,
have plundered the municipal towns, and injured both
His speech.
me
COMMENTARIES.
389
me and your country, taking up whole veffels for your AFRIC.
horfes and retinue, and deprived the commonwealth of the WAR.
ufe of thoſe foldiers it has occafion for; I difmifs you with
ignominy from my army, commanding you to quit Africk,
and be gone as far this day as poffible. The like fentence
I pronounce upon you, AULUS FONTEIUS, becauſe you have
been a feditious officer, and an ill citizen. And as for you,
T. SALIENUS, M. TIRO, and c. CLUSINAS, fince you
gained your commands by favour, not by merit; fince you
have neither proved yourſelves good foldiers in war, nor
faithful citizens in peace, ftudying more how to incite the
foldiers to mutiny againft their general, than give proofs of
your modefty, I hold you unworthy to bear commiffions in
my army; wherefore I cafhier, and command you imme-
diately to leave Africk." Having ended his fpeech, he de-
livered them to the centurions, with orders to fee they im-
mediately embarked with only one fervant each.
55. By this time the Getulian deferters, whom CÆSAR The Getu-
fent with letters and particular inftructions, arrived in their lians revolt
from Juba.
country, where the people, equally induced by their au-
thority, and CAESAR's reputation, were foon prevailed on to
take arms and revolt from JUBA: upon which, that mo-
narch, being now engaged in three feveral wars at once,
found himſelf obliged to detach fix cohorts, to defend the
borders of his kingdom againſt the incurfions of the Ge-
tulians.
CHAP. XIII.
56. CÆSAR, having finifhed his lines of communica-
tion, and produced them almoft within javelin-ſhot of the
town, entrenched himſelf there; and drawing five legions
out of his other camp, cauſed plenty of war-like engines to
be fixed in the front of his works directly over-againſt
Uzita; whereby he perpetually kept the enemy upon the
walls in fear and apprehenfions. This opportunity gave
feveral perfons of quality in both armies, a defire to fee their
friends and relations, whence frequent conferences proceed-
ed, which CÆSAR was fenfible would prove to his advan-
tage. For the chief officers of the Getulian horfe, with
fome others of condition who ferved under JUBA, whofe
anceſtors had formerly been commanded by MARIUS, and
from his generofity obtained confiderable eftates in their
country, but, fince SYLLA's victory, had been made tribu-
taries to king HIEMPSAL, taking the favour of the even-
Cc 3
ing,
390
C. J. CÆSA R'S
AFRIC.ing, when the fires were lighted, with their horfes and fer-
WAR. vants, about a thouſand in number, came over to CÆSAR's
camp, in the plain near Uzita.
57. Whilft SCIPIO and his party were diſturbed at this
Aquinius
has a confe-lofs, they perceived M. AQUINIUS talking with C. SASER-
rence with NA; upon which SCIPIO fent a meffenger to let him know,
Saferna, but he ought not to hold correſpondence with an enemy: this
upon Juba's did not interrupt the conference, till one of JUBA's at-
command. tendance was diſpatched to acquaint him, it was his ma-
breaks it off
fter's pleaſure he ſhould hold no further difcourfe: where-
upon he immediately defifted, for fear of offending the
king. A moſt unaccountable thing, that a Roman citizen,
who had already been promoted to honours in the ftate,
fhould rather fubmit to the commands of a foreign prince,
than thoſe of SCIPIO, and defire to furvive the deftruction.
of his party. But JUBA's arrogance to M. AQ INIUS, a
man of no family, lately admitted to the fenatorian order,
was ftill lefs deteftable than his behaviour to SCIPIO, who
was nobly born, and equally to be refpecied for the dig-
His pride. nity and honours he poffefled. SCIPIO, before the king's
Both ar-
out.
arrival, always wore a purple robe; but it is reported, that
JUBA told him he ought not to wear the fame colour with
himſelf, upon which he changed it for a white one; ſub-
mitting to the caprice of fo haughty and fooliſh a monarch.
58. The day after, the enemy drawing out all their
mies drawn forces, pofted themſelves upon a rifing ground, at no great
diſtance from CAESAR's camp: who did the like, and im-
mediately difpofed his army in order of battle before his
lines; taking it for granted, that SCIPIO, who firſt drew
out, and was fo confiderably reinforced by JUBA's arrival,
would immediately come to attack him. Wherefore hav-
ing rode through the ranks encouraging his men, and given
them the fign of battle, he ftaid to expect the enemy's
charge; for he judged it not convenient to march far from
his trenches, becauſe there was a ſtrong garrifon in Uzita,
which flanked his right, and made him apprehenfive, if he
advanced farther, their forces might fally out of the town
upon him. Befides, there was a very difficult paffage to
get over, before he could arrive at SCIPIO's army, which
would have diſordered his men, in making their onſet.
Scipio's dif
poñtion.
59. Here I must not omit to give an account of the
difpofition of both armies: SCIPIO had ranged his legions
with thoſe of JUBA in the front, behind which were placed
the Numidians for a reſerve, in fo very thin ranks, and
fo far extended, that they feemed at fome diftance to make
but
<
الحرة
{
COMMENTARIES.
1391
WAR.
but one line behind the legions; and the wings appeared A PRIC;
to be two lines: the elephants were placed in either
wing with equal diſtances between them, and behind
them the light-armed infantry and auxiliary Numidians; all
the cavalry with bridles were pofted on the right, the left
being covered by Uzita, fo that he had not room enough
for his cavalry there. About a thouſand paces diſtant from
his right, he had diſpoſed all his P Numidian horſe and light-
armed infantry, at the foot of a mountain, the fartheft di-
ftant both from the enemy's and his own army; defigning
they ſhould take a circuit when the battle was begun, and,
furrounding CESAR's forces, put them into diforder with
their darts.
60. Such was SCIPIO's difpofition; but CESAR's army Cæfar's.
was ranged in this order. I will begin with his left wing,
wherein were placed the ninth and twenty-feventh legions;
in his right the tenth and thirtieth; in the middle the twen-
ty-eighth, thirteenth, fourteenth, twenty-ninth and twenty-
fixth: 9 but the ſecond line of his right wing confifted,
partly of the cohorts of thofe legions we have already
named, partly of new levies; his third line he had dif
poſed entire behind the left, extending it only as far as the
middle legion of his front, to make his army triple there,
becauſe his right was defended by the works; but it was
neceffary to make his left ftronger, that it might be the bet-
ter able to fuftain the charge of the enemy's numerous
horfe: for which reafon likewife he had placed all his own
cavalry, intermixed with light-armed foot there; and fince
p Thoſe without bridles, I fuppofe.
a The original is, Ipfum autem dextrum cornu, fecundam aciem fere, in earum
legionum parte cobortium collocaverat. Præterea ex tironum legionibus paucas
adjecerat. And I wonder the criticks have not altered the text, which is fo
apparently corrupt; fince a ſmall variation would make it fenfe, though at
preſent incomprehenfible. RHELLICANUS indeed has taken abundance of
pains to convince the world, that dextrum cornu and fecunda acies, are two
names for the very fame thing; fo, fays he, no doubt are finiftrum cornu and
prima acies. What he would infer from hence, I cannot conceive; but it is
certain his hypothefis is falfe; elfe we fhould never be able to understand the
next fentence in HIRTIUS, which tells us, Tertiam autem aciem in finiftrum
cornu contulerat. Might I take the liberty of altering the text, I would write
thus: Ipfius autem dextri cornu fecundam aciem, fere ex earum legionum parte
cobortium, collocaverat ; præterea ex Tironum legionibus paucas adjecerat. And
Monfieur D'ABLANCOURT, I perceive, by his verfion, feems to have been of
the fame opinion. BLADEN. Dr. CLARKE follows RHELLICANUS, and SAL-
MASIUS Contends that in CASAR's time each wing was reckoned a diftinct acies
or line, De militia Rom. c. ix. p. 92. But Dr. JURIN's emendation is above all
the moſt ingenious: Ipfo autem dextro cornu, fecunda in acie, veteranarum le-
gionum partem cobortium collocaverat: Præterea, &c. i. e. but the fecond line
of his right wing confifted partly of cohorts of the veteran legions, and cf
fome few of the new levies. Typogr.
Cc 4
he
392
C. J. CÆSAR'S
.
A
FRIC.he could not rely much upon them, had ordered the fifth
WAR. legion to fuftain them: the archers he difperfed in feveral
places, but eſpecially in the wings.
No fet bat-
tle.
Cæfar re-
part of his
forces.
61. Thus were both armies drawn up, not above three
hundred paces diftant from each other, and continued in
that poſture till four in the afternoon without fighting, a
circumſtance perhaps never known before. But when
But when CÆSAR began to retreat within his lines, on a ſudden all
treats, the the Numidian and Getulian horſe without bridles, who,
Numidian as I have already remarked, had been difpofed at fome di-
horſe cut off ſtance off, began to wheel about to the right, and make to-
wards CÆSAR's camp upon the hill. In the mean while,
LABIENUS's cavalry, with bridles, maintained their poft,
and endeavoured to ftop the march of our legions. Where-
upon part of CÆSAR's horfe and light-armed infantry, on a
fudden, without orders, rafhly ventured too far againſt the
Getulians, and having paſſed a morafs which lay between
them, found themſelves too weak to ſuſtain the charge of
fo numerous a multitude; for being forfaken by the foot,
they were obliged to retreat in diforder, after the loss of
twenty fix infantry, one trooper, and feveral horfes wound-
ed. SCIPIO, proud of this fuccefs, drew his forces within.
his lines again but his joy was foon interrupted, for the day
after, a fquadron of horſe which CASAR fent to Leptis, to
convoy fome provifions, fell in by the way with a party of
Numidian and Getulian raparees, whom they charged fo
very brifkly, that they killed or took near a hundred pri-
foners. CÆSAR all this while omitted not advancing his
lines, and drawing out his forces, to prevent the enemy's
incurfions; nor was SCIPIO idle, who left nothing unat-
tempted to prevent CASAR's excluding him from the hill.
Thus both generals were employed about their works, yet
there frequently happened fkirmiſhes between the cavalry.
Some of
taken.
CHAP. XIV.
62. WHILST affairs were in this poſture, VARUS,
Cæfar's fhips on notice that the feventh and eighth legions had failed from
Sicily, left Utica, where he laid up his fquadron all win-
ter, and put out to fea. He manned his fleet with Getu-
lian rowers and marines; then deſigning to lay wait for our
tranfports, hoifted fail with fixty fhips for Adrumetum.
CASAR, being ignorant of his arrival, fent L. CISPIUS with
a fquadron of twenty-feven fail to cruife about Thapfus,
for the fecurity of his convoy; and Q AQUILA with
thirteen
COMMENTARIES.
393
4
WAR.
thirteen gallies to Adrumetum, upon the fame errand. A F R 1 C.
CISPIUS quickly arrived at the place he was ordered to;
but AQUILA, being toffed by the tempeft, could not double
the promontory; having found therefore a convenient creek
ta ride at anchor in, he was glad to fhelter his fleet there
from the fury of the winds. In the mean while ſome veffels
which lay at anchor in the road of Leptis, were left deſti-
tute and defenceless by the mariners, who were gone into
the town to buy provifions, or were difperfed about the
fhore. VARUS having notice of this from the deferters, Some veffels
about nine that night left Adrumetum, and the next morn-taken.
ing early arriving with all his fleet at Leptis, fet fire to the
tranſports which rode at anchor without the haven; and
meeting no manner of oppofition, took two five-banked
gallies that were empty.
-them.
4
63. CÆSAR foon received intelligence of this, whilſt he Cæfar puts
was viewing his works about fix miles diftant from the to fea, and
harbour; whereupon laying afide all other affairs, he im-recovers
mediately poſted to Leptis, where he made no longer ftay,
than to allow the reft of his fleet fufficient time to follow
him; then embarking in a ſmall galley, hinifelf led the
way: having joined AQUILA, whom he found under no
ſmall terrors at the number of the enemy's fleet, he went in
purſuit of the enemy. VARUs, equally amazed at CÆ-
SAR's boldness and diſpatch, tacked about, and made the
beſt of his way for Adrumetum; but CÆSAR, after a
league's fail coming up with him, retook one of his own
gallies with all her men, and a hundred and fifty more in
her, who were put on board to guard her, and another three-
banked galley, with her rowers and mariners; but the reſt
of the enemy's fquadron, having doubled the cape, made
the port of Adrumetum, which CASAR, by the affiſtance
of the fame wind, was not able to do: wherefore lying that
night at anchor, next morning early he failed towards the
town, where having fet fire to all the tranfports which
rode without the haven, he waited fome time to fee if the
enemy would give him battle; but finding they would not,
returned again to his camp.
P. Veftrius
the last put
64. In this fhip was taken P. VESTRIUS, a Roman
knight, and P. LIGARIUS AFRANIANUS, whom CÆSAR and P. Liga-
had made priſoner in Spain, and difmiffed with the reft of rius taken;
the captives there; notwithſtanding which favour, he had to death by
again entered into POMPEY's fervice, and having made his Cæfar.
efcape from the battle of Pharfalia, fled to VARUS in
Africk: Him therefore CESAR put to death for his perjury.
3.
But
394
C. J. CÆSAR'S
AFRIC. But as for P. VESTRIUS, becauſe his brother readily paid
WAR. his ranſom at Rome, and he made it appear, that being
corn.
taken by NASIDIUS's fleet, and condemned to die, VARUS
had procured his pardon; that fince he never had an oppor-
tunity of making his eſcape; CASAR granted him his life.
CHAP. XV.
65. THE Africans have a cuſtom of hiding their corn
in caverns under earth, eſpecially in war-time, to prevent
being furprized by the enemy, and every town has private
Cæfar gets a caves for this purpoſe. CESAR having intelligence of one
booty of
of theſe hoards from a deferter, about midnight drew out
two legions with a party of cavalry, fending them about
ten miles off; from whence they returned loaden to the
camp with corn. LABIENUS, on notice of this, marched.
about eight miles from his lines, through the mountains
CÆSAR had paffed the day before, where he laid out a
camp large enough to contain two legions; daily attending
with a ſtrong party of horſe and light-armed foot in am-
bufcade, under an expectation we ſhould often paſs that way
for proviſions.
Labienus's
Cæfar.
J
66. In the mean while CESAR being informed of LA-
ambuſh de- BIEN Us's defign, kept within a few days, that he might
feated by render the enemy more negligent and remifs by going
through the fame duty fo often over; then unexpectedly,
one morning betimes, commanded eight veteran legions,
with part of his cavalry, to follow him out of the Decuman
port. Having ordered his horſe to advance before, they
furprized the enemy, who lay in ambuſh for them, and
killing about five hundred, routed the reft. Whereupon
LABIENUS came up with all his horſe to ſuſtain his party ;
but CÆSAR, perceiving his cavalry could not maintain their
ground againſt fo unequal a number, advanced with his le-
gions to engage the enemy, who being frightened at his ap-
proach, defifted from the purſuit, and fecured their own re-
The day after, JUBA gave orders all the Numidians
who had deferted their poft, fhould be hanged, for a terror
to the reft of his army.
treat.
67. CESAR, in the mean while, being ftreightened for
provifions, recalled all his forces to the camp, and having
left garrisons at Leptis, Rufpina, and Achilla, ordered
AQUILA and CISPIUS to cruife with their ſeveral fleets,
q The number his wrong: CESAR had but feven veteran legions with
him. JURIN.
one
COMMENTARIES.
395
:
one near Adrumetum, the other about Thapfus, fet fire to A FRIC.
his works, and about three in the morning drew out his WAR.
army, difpofing his baggage in the left, and marched directly
to Agar, a town which had frequently been invefted by the Cæfar
Getulians, and as often made a vigorous defence. He en-marches to
Agar.
camped in the plain near this place, and went out to forage
with part of his forces about the country; where he met
not only with a confiderable booty of oil, wine, figs, and
barley, but alſo a little wheat: then after refreſhing his
foldiers, he returned again to his quarters. SCIPIO, having
notice of CAESAR's motions, followed him along the ridge
of the hill, with all his forces, and lodged his army in three
feveral camps, about feven miles from CAESARʼs.
Zetta.
68. Zetta lay about ten miles diftant from SCIPIO, di- Cæfar takes
rectly over-againſt the poſt he poſſeſſed, out above eighteen
miles from CÆSAR. Hither the enemy detached two le-
gions to forage, which CAESAR being informed of from a
deferter, removed his camp from the valley, to a ſafer place
upon the hill; and having left a guard there, about three
the next morning paffed the enemy's camp, and gained the
town. When he arrived there, finding SCIPIO's foragers
were gone up farther into the country, and that the enemy
advanced with their legions to cover them, he defifted from
the purſuit, and after having taken C. MUTIUS REGINUS,
a Roman knight, SCIPIO's familiar friend, and governor of
Zetta, with P. ATRIUS, another Roman knight of Utica,
having furprized two and twenty of the king's camels, and
left lieutenant' OPPIUS with a garriſon in the place, he re-
turned to his camp.
69. Being now arrived near SCIPIO's quarters, which he
was obliged to pafs, LABIENUS and AFRANIUS, with all
the enemy's horse and light-armed infantry, rifing from an
ambufcade, appeared upon the hills, and began to attack his
rear; which CAESAR obferving, firft detached his cavalry Cæfar's rear
to receive their charge, then ordered the foot to difpofe of attacked,
their baggage, and face about; nor did the legions fooner
begin their attack, than with great eaſe they forced them from
the higher ground. But when CAESAR, thinking the enemy
had been fo warmly received, that they would hardly give
him any farther trouble, began to purfue his journey, they
ſhewed themſelves upon a neighbouring hill; and the Nu-
midians, with their light-armed foot, who are wonderfully
nimble, always mixed amongst the cavalry (with whom.
they kept an equal pace either in charging or retiring) fell
This is the Oppius fome fuppofe author of this book.
a fecond
7
1
396
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
AFRIC. a fecond time upon out foot. Thus they frequently re-
newed the charge, ftill retiring when we endeavoured to
engage, and as we marched forward, preffing upon our rear.
CASAR plainly perceived their defign was to oblige him to
encamp in a place where no water was to be had, that his
foldiers, who had neither eat nor drank from three in the
morning till four in the afternoon, might perifh with thirſt
and hunger.
But he fe-
cures his re-
treat.
70. The fun was near fetting, when CASAR, finding hẹ
had not gained compleat an hundred paces in four hours
march, drew his cavalry off from the rear, who had loft
feveral horfes, caufing the legions by their turns to fe-
cure his retreat: thus proceeding flowly, by the affiſtance
of his foot he fuftained the enemy's charges with greater
eaſe. In the mean while, part of the Numidian horſe
galloped to the right and left upon the hills, endeavouring
to furround our army with their number, whilst others
kept our rear employed: but if only two or three veteran
foldiers chanced to face about, and caft their piles with vi-
gour, two thouſand of the enemy would fly; then return-
ing, rally again, and following at fome diftance, throw
their darts at the legions. Thus CASAR, one while march-
ing forward, one while halting, and going on but flowly,
arrived fafe with all his forces, by feven that evening, at
his camp, having only ten foldiers wounded. LABIEN US
likewife having loft about three hundred, ſeveral being
wounded, and all much fatigued, retreated to his camp.
And SCIPIO withdrew his legions and elephants, whom he
had ranged for the greater terror within view of CÆSAR'S
army, before his own lines,
CHA P. XVI.
71. CÆSAR, having fo fubtile an enemy to deal with,
inftructed his foldiers, not like a general of a veteran army,
who had atchieved fo many glorious exploits, but as a
fencing mafter teaches his fcholars; how they fhould re-
treat from, how encounter the enemy, how far advance,
how far retreat, where, and in what manner caft their
piles. For the enemy's light-armed infantry gave us great
uneafinefs, deterring our troopers from meeting them, by
killing their horfes with their javelins, and wearying our
legions by their fwiftnefs: for when our heavy-arm'd foot
faced about, and endeavoured to return their charge, they
quickly avoided the danger by flight.
72. This
५
14
COMMENTARIES.
397
72. This was no ímall uneafineſs to CESAR, whofe horſe, A FRI C.
whenever they engaged without the legions, were no equal WAR.
match for theirs mixed with the light-armed infantry. He
was the more concerned at this, becauſe he had never yet
tried the courage of their legions, and knew not how far
he ſhould be able, even by the affiftance of his own, to
fuftain their charge, with that of their cavalry and light-
armed foot united. To add to theſe grievances, his men
were terrified with the number and fize of the enemy's
elephants however, to redrefs this evil, he had caufed
ſome of thoſe animals to be tranſported from Italy, that his
foldiers might be better acquainted with the nature and
and ftrength of them, what part of their body was moſt
eafily pierced, and where their furniture left room for a dart
to enter; that being perfectly uſed to the ſmell, noiſe, and
fpecies of that beaft, they might no longer be afraid of it.
The defign fucceeded to his wifh, his men foon became
acquainted with the elephants, and diſcovered their flow-
nefs; the cavalry caft blunted piles at them, and by de-
grees
made their horfes familiar to them.
For theſe reaſons CÆSAR was more flow and cau-
73.
tious than heretofore, and departed from his ufual method
of haftening to the iffue of a battle. For in Gaul his foldiers
ufed to fight in open plains, and had a generous enemy to
engage, who was unacquainted with defign, and relied
entirely upon force, not on artifice: but here he found
himſelf obliged to prepare his men for deceit, ambuſcades,
and fraud; that they might know when to engage, when
to avoid the combat. That therefore they might the fooner
learn this leffon, he thought it not convenient to ſuffer his
legions to continue long in any place, but, under pretence
of foraging, made them march up and down the country;
being affured the enemy would follow him wherever he
went. About three days after, he drew his forces out care-
fully, and marched by SCIPIO's camp, to offer him battle;
but finding he declined it, in the evening retreated again to
his own quarters.
CHAP.
XVII.
Vacca, de-
74. AND now arrived deputies from Vacca, a town
not far diftant from Zetta, which cÆSAR, as we obferved, figning to
had lately furprized: their bufinefs was to defire he would furrender to
fend them a garrifon, and to inform him they had feveral Celar, is
forts of warlike provifions at his fervice. But before their Juba,
departure
facked by
398
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
S
A FRI c.departure arrived a deferter (that wiſhed as well to CÆSAR
s as they) acquainting them, that before the intended gar-
rifon could arrive, JUBA had taken the town by affault,
and having put the inhabitants to the fword, had ordered
his foldiers to fack and plunder the city.
a. d. xii.
Cal. Apr.
Per Jul.
4668.
U. C. Var.
708.
Cæfar's
75. CESAR reviewed his army the twenty-firft of Jan.
and the day after marched out with all his forces about five
miles from his camp, where he drew them up in order of
battle, about two miles diftant from SCIPIO's: but having
long invited the enemy to an engagement, finding them
averſe to it, he retreated. The day following he decamped,
and began his march towards Sarfura, where SCIPIO had
a Numidian garrifon, and a magazine of corn: which LA-
BIENUS perceiving, purfued our rear with all his cavalry
and light-armed foot; having ſurprized fome futlers wag-
gons, the fuccefs infpired them with fuch courage, they
rear attack-reſolved to attack our legions, who they thought would not
ed, but he be able to fight, whilft incumbred with their baggage. But
CÆSAR was prepared to receive them, for he had taken
care to make a draught of three hundred men out of every
legion, who had nothing to carry but their arms; tl.efe he
detached to cover his rear againſt the infults of LABIEN US'S
cavalry; who, frightened at the approach of our enfigns,
turned their horſes heads, and began to make a difhonour-
able flight, after feveral of them had been killed and wound-
ed. Our men returned to the reft of the army, and pur-
fued their journey. LABIENUS kept within fight at the
right hand of us at a diſtance on the top of the hill.
fecures his
retreat.
Cæfar takes
Sarfura,
76. When CESAR arrived at Sarfura, after he had killed
P. CORNELIUS, who commanded there for SCIPIO, and
taken the town, he put the garrifon to the fword, even in
the enemy's preſence, who durft not come to their affift-
ance. Having furniſhed his army with corn, he marched
the day after to Tifdra, where CONSIDIUS lay with a ſtrong
garrifon, and his cohort of gladiators. CAESAR, after view-
ing the place, being deterred from undertaking a fiege
for want of provifions, proceeded without delay about four
miles farther, and encamped near the river; from thence
again, the fourth day following, he returned to his camp
at Agar. SCIPIO followed his example, and retreated
likewiſe to his former quarters.
s De corum voluntate ftudioque erga Cæfarem.-The paffage is corrupted.
Dr. Jurin's emendation makes the fenfe thus: "About the fame time à de-
"ferter from the town informed SCIPIO of their affection towards CÆSAR;
"and we underſtood that before the intended garrifon could arrive," &c.
Typogr.
77. During
COMMENTARIES.
399
J
Cæfar.
77. During theſe tranſactions, the Thabenenfes, a people AFRIC.
fubject to JUBA, whofe country lies near the fea-coafts, WAR.
in the fartheft part of his kingdom, having put the king's The Tha-
garrifon to the fword, fent meffengers to CESAR, ac benenfes de-
quainting him with what they had done. He, applauding clare for
the action, fent them M. CRISPUS, the tribune, with a
cohort, a party of archers, and ftore of warlike engines.
About this time all the foldiers, who had either been de-
tained by ſickneſs, or any other occafion, from coming
with the former convoys to Africk, arrived together, a-
mounting to four thousand foot, four hundred horfe, and a
thouſand flingers and archers; having therefore drawn out
all theſe forces, and the legions he had before, he marched
about eight miles from his camp, and halted in a plain
about four miles diftant from SCIPIO'S.
*
out near
78. There was a town below SCIPIO's camp, called Te- Both ar-
gea, where he generally had a garriſon of about four hun- mies drawn
dred horfe; here, having difpofed his cavalry on the right Tegea.
and left fides of the town, he drew out his legions, pofted Cæfar's ca-
them upon a hill fomething lower than his camp, and fovalry en-
ftood in order of battle about a mile before his lines. But gaged with
fuccefs,
when SCIPIO had continued in this pofture a confiderable
time, and thrown away greateft part of the day to no pur-
poſe, CÆSAR commanded his horfe to charge the enemy's
that were placed before the town, fending a party of light-
armed infantry, archers, and flingers, to affift them. Our
cavalry had no fooner clapped fpurs to their horfes, in order
to make a vigorous attack, but PACIDIUS extended his
troops, that they might at the fame inftant ſurround, and
warmly return our onfet: which CESAR obferving, he
detached three hundred foldiers out of the next legion to
ſuſtain his party; whereupon LABIENUS fent more cavalry
to the affiftance of his, ftill ordering fresh men to relieve
the wounded and fatigued. Ours, who were only four
hundred, finding themfelves an unequal match for as many
thouſands, and being wounded by the light-armed Numi-
dians, began by degrees to give ground; which made cœ-
SAR immediately difpatch another wing to their relief:
whereupon affuming fresh courage, we charged the enemy
again, killed many, wounded others, and put them all en-
tirely to the rout. Our men purſued them three miles,
till they had driven them to the hills, and then returned
again to the main body of our army; which having ftood
in order of battle till four in the afternoon, CAESAR retreated
to his camp, without the lofs of a fingle man. In this
action
400
C. J. CÆSAR'S
AFRIC.action was PACIDIUS dangerously wounded with a pile
WAR. which pierced his helmet; many other officers met with
the like fate, for none that endeavoured to fignalize them-
felves eſcaped without death or wounds.
Pacidius
wounded.
Prid. non.
Apr.
CHA P. XVIII.
79. CÆSAR at length perceiving he could not perfuade
the enemy to quit the higher ground, and engage him with
their legions; and that it was impoffible for him to encamp
nearer them through ſcarcity of water, concluded they de-
pended more on that want of his, than their own courage.
Wherefore, the fourth day of February, about three in the
morning, leaving Agar, he marched to Thapfus, fixteen
miles diſtant from the place whence he came.
Here VIR-
*
GILIUS commanded with a ſtrong garriſon; but CÆSAR
having encamped, began the fame day to inveft the town,
and diſpoſe parties in feveral paffes, to prevent the enemy
from gaining any place within the compafs of his lines.
SCIPIO, in the mean time, having notice of CAESAR's de-
fign, found himſelf obliged to hazard a battle, rather than
fuffer fo fignal a difgrace as the lofs of Thapfus, and
VIRGILIUS, who had been fignally faithful to him: where-
fore taking his rout along the hills, he immediately follow-
ed CAESAR, and dividing his forces into two parties, fate
down about eight miles from Thapfus.
80. There was a falt morafs, between which and the
fea lay a narrow paffage, not above fifteen hundred paces
long; and SCIPIO defigned to march this way to the affift-
ance of the town. But CAESAR, foreſeeing his attempt,
had the day before erected a fort, and left a ftrong garrifon
there; then with the reft of his forces drew a line of cir-
cumvallation about Thapfus. Thus SCIPIO finding himſelf
difappointed, ſpent a day and a night a little above the mo-
rafs; but the morning after, fo foon as it was day-light,
removing his quarters about a mile further diftant from our
fort towards the fea, there encamped. CAESAR, having
notice of this, drew off his foldiers from, the works, and
leaving the proconful ASPRENAS, with two legions,
fecure his camp and baggage, marched immediately with
the rest of his forces towards the enemy; he ordered part
of his fleet to continue at Thapfus, and the reft to make
t The original is, Prid. Non. Apr. tertiâ vigilia egreffus, ab Agar xv1
millia paffuum nocte progreffus, &c. But that's impoffible, therefore I have
left out the word no&e.
as
COMMENTARIES.
401
WAR.
as near the fhore, towards the enemy's rear, as they could, AF R I C
obſerving the fignal he ſhould give them; upon which they
were immediately to ſet up a fhout behind the enemy, who
would thereby be obliged to look round in confternation
and difmay.
x
81. When CÆSAR arrived at the place, obferving the
enemy had drawn out before their rampier, the elephants
being diſpoſed in their wing, and that part of their foldiers
were notwithſtanding employ'd in fortifying their camp,
he likewiſe ranged his forces in order of battle in three ſe-
veral lines; the tenth and fecond legion he placed in the
right wing, the eighth and ninth in the left; then forming
a fourth body of the fifth legion, he difpofed five cohorts
on either fide before the wings, over-againſt the elephants:
to theſe he likewife added archers, flingers, and light-
armed foot intermingled with his cavalry. Walking thro'
all the ranks on foot, he spoke courteously to the veteran
foldiers, inciting them to behave themſelves worthy of their
former actions, and encouraged the new levies to rival their
example; that, the victory obtained, they might poffefs
the others place, and fucceed to their glory.
82. Whilſt CÆSAR was ſpeaking to his foldiers, he ob-
ſerved the enemy were very uneafy, running up and down
in great confufion, one while retiring within their trenches
another while coming out again precipitately. Several ob-
ſerved this as well as himſelf; wherefore the lieutenants and
volunteers unanimoufly defired he would give the fignal of
battle, fince the immortal gods had certainly deftined him
the victory. Whilft CESAR was doubting with himſelf,
ftriving to moderate their defire, and reftrain the foldiers,
becauſe he thought it not convenient to attack the enemy
firſt, on a ſudden, without his leave, a trumpeter in the
right wing, being compelled to it by the foldiers, founded One of Cæ-
a charge; whereupon all the cohorts marched towards the peters founds
enemy, whilft the centurions in vain interpoſed their autho- à charge
rity to make the men attend their general's orders.
far's trum-
without his
leave.
83. Which CESAR perceiving, found it now too late to Cæfar gives
recall thoſe who were fo eager for the engagement; where- Good For-
x The text is, Oppofitis quinque legionibus in quarta acie, ante ipfa cornua
quinis cohortibus contra beftias collocatis; but I believe it fhould only be oppofita
quinta legione. BLADEN. But, I. CESAR had nine legions with him (fee §
60. and JURIN on the place.) Now by this emendation mention is only made
of five. 2. How in Latin or English can it be faid in quarta acie, forming a
fourth body, or rather line, when the author had before faid the army was
triplici acie conftituta? Read therefore with Dr. JURIN, in media acie, for in
quarta acie, i. e. forming his middle front with five legions. Typogr.
Dd
fore
tune for the
word.
402
C. J. CESAR'S
AFRIC.fore having given Good Fortune for the word, he clapped
WAR. fpurs to his horfe, and charged the enemy's front.
The ele-
their own
army.
The archers and flingers on the right were now plying
phants dif- the elephants warmly with their darts; whereupon the un-
ordered, and ruly beafts, frightened with the noife of the flings and
they rout ftones, turn'd their backs,. and forcing their way through the
thickeſt ranks behind them, endeavoured to enter the camp,
where the gates were not above half finifhed: the officers
of the Moorish cavalry, who were in the faine wing, find-
ing themſelves deferted of their main fupport, did the like.
Thus purſuing the elephants, our legions rendered them-
ſelves mafters of their camp, after having killed fome few
that made a vigorous refiftance; but the reft, being beaten
back, made the beft of their way to the place they were
encamped in the day before.
A foldier ta-
wounds the
84. Here I muſt not omit recording the bravery of a
veteran of the fifth legion; who (obferving an elephant,
ken up by an enraged with a wound he had received, attacking a futler
elephant in unarmed) and having thrown him under his feet, with his
his trunk, bent knee preffed upon him with all his weight, till he had
beaft fo, that forced his foul from his body, making a dreadful noife all the
he obliges while and brandifhing his probofcis, could no longer con-
him to let tain himſelf from engaging the beaft. The elephant, fee-
ing him advance, quitted the dead body, and catched his
enemy up in his trunk, wheeling him about, armour and
all, in the air: the foldier, lofing no prefence of mind,
notwithſtanding the danger he was in, continually cut the
animal's probofcis with his utmoſt force, till he obliged
him to forego his prey, and retire with a hideous noiſe to
the reft of his companions.
him go a-
gain.
endeavour to
but are
beaten back
again.
The garrifon 85. Whilft both armies were thus engaged, the garrifon
of Thapfus of Thapfus, either deſigning to affift their friends, or de-
get out of fert the town, made a fally through the gate adjoining to
the town, the fea, and marching navel deep through the water, en-
deavoured to gain the land, but were repulfed with ftones
and darts by the fervants in the camp, who obliged them
to retire again within their walls. SCIPIO's forces thus
routed and difperfed about the field, CESAR's legions re-.
folved to purſue them ſo cloſe that they could have no time
to rally. So foon as their broken troops arrived at the
camp they defigned to fly to, where they would have re-
paired the works, and again defended themſelves, they
found no commander whofe orders and authority they
fhould fubmit to. Obferving likewiſe there was not fo
much as a guard left, immediately cafting away their arms.
they fled into JUBA's quarters. Thefe CESAR had al-
ready
COMMENTARIES.
403
war.
*
WAR.
ces entirely
taken.
ready poffeffed; wherefore now, defpairing of ſafety, they AFRIC.
retired to an adjacent hill, where they lowered their fwords
and according to military cuſtom, made figns of fubmif-
fion. But this could not mollify the veteran troops, who,
Scipio's for-
enraged with grief and anger, granted no quarter, killing routed. Ju-
or wounding ſeveral perfons of the most eminent quality, ba's camp
whom they upbraided for having been the authors of the Cefar's fol-
Amongſt this number was TULLIUS RUFUS, fome diers grant
time quæftor, who was transfixed with a pile, and POM- no quarter.
PEIUS RUFUS, who received a wound in his arm with a
ſword, and had infallibly been killed, had he not immedi-
ately eſcaped to CÆSAR. Whereupon ſeveral Roman knights
and fenators fled away for fear they fhould receive the fame
fate from the licentious foldiers, who thought the ſervices
of the day fufficient warrant for all their exceffes. Thus
SCIPIO's foldiers were put to the ſword, even in CÆSAR'S
prefence, notwithſtanding they implored his compaffion,
and he endeavoured to reftrain the fury of his men.
other re-
turns to
86. CAESAR, having now made himſelf mafter of three.
feveral camps, killed ten thouſand of the enemy, and routed
the reft, only with the lofs of fifty on his ſide, and a few
wounded, retired to his former quarters. Thence he im-
mediately drew out before Thapfus, caufing fixty-four e-
lephants he had taken, with all their armour, caftles, and Cæfar re-
ornaments, to paſs by the town, hoping thereby to reduce Thapfus.
VIRGILIUS and the beſieged to reaſon, after the defeat of Virgilius fill
their party: he himſelf likewife called to VIRGILIUS, in- holds out.
viting him to furrender to that mercy which his enemies
had experienced from him; but perceiving the
turned no answer, he retreated from the walls. The day
after, having offered facrifice to the Gods, he fummoned
the foldiers to attend him; when making a fpeech to them
within fight of the befieged, he applauded their courage,
giving rewards to the whole veteran army in general, and
not forgetting to recompence each private man's defert.
Then quitted the place, having left the proconful, C. RE-
BILUS, to continue the fiege with three legions, and de-
tached CN. DOMITIUS with two others to Tifdra, where
CONSIDIUS Commanded; and fending M. MESSALLA be-
fore towards Utica, he followed himfelf with the cavalry.
▾ The author had before faid they flung away their arms, armis abjectis in
regia caftra fugere contendunt. How therefore now armis demiffis falutationem
faciunt, unlets at firft they only flung away their heavy arms, but retained
their fwords? Or fhall we fay, fome flung away their arms, others did not?
Let the reader chufe. Typogr.
Dd 2
CHAP.
404
C. J. CÆSAR'S
AFRIC.
WAR.
Cæfar
marches to
tica.
lica.
CHA P.
XIX.
87. SCIPIO'S horſe that had eſcaped the flaughter,
making the beft of their way towards Utica, arrived at Pa-
rada; but the inhabitants, having before received news of
CESAR's victory, fhut their gates againſt them. Upon
which they ſtormed the town; then bringing great piles of
Utica.
wood into the market-place, and binding the inhabitants,
Scipio's
horfe that they flung them upon it, and ſet fire to it; and, without
efcaped the refpect to age and dignity, compelled them to expire in this
flaughter,
fack Parada, miferable manner; which bloody work effected, they
plunder U- marched directly to Utica. CATO heretofore, finding the
common people's affections alienated from him by the Julian
law, from whence they received fignal advantages, had
expelled them the town, and taken away their arms, oblig-
Porta Bel- ing them to encamp before the Warlike gate, where they
were encloſed only with a ſmall ditch, and attended with a
conftant guard; the fenate he kept in cuftody within the
walls. SCIPIO's cavalry therefore, knowing theſe people
were well-wishers to CESAR, afſaulted the camp, that they
might fatiate their revenge by putting them to the ſword.
But the Uticans, affuming courage on the news of CÆSAR'S
victory, repulfed the aggreffors by the help only of ftones
and clubs; who not being able to force the trenches, flung
themſelves into the town, where they killed and plundered
feveral of the inhabitants. CATO finding his perfuafions in-
effectual to reſtrain the foldiers, and bring them to join his
forces for the common defence of the place; gave each of
them a hundred fefterces to make them quiet: FAUSTUS
SYLLA did the like out of his own pocket, and marching
out of Utica along with them, bent his courfe towards
Numidia.
council.
Cato calls a 88. By this time ſeveral had fled to Utica; whom CATO
having affembled with the three hundred merchants that
furniſhed SCIPIO with money to carry on the war, adviſed
them to enfranchiſe their flaves, and maintain the town.
But finding whilſt part were willing to agree to his opinion,
others were fo terrified that they could think of nothing but
making their efcape, he furniſhed them with veffels, giving
them free leave to fail whither they pleaſed. After this,
having fettled his own affairs, and recommended his chil-
dren to the care of L. CESAR, his fub-treaſurer, without
the leaſt fufpicion (for his voice and countenance were ſtill
the fame as formerly) pretending to go to fleep, he privately
carried his fword into his bed-chamber with him, and run
himſelf through the body. Before he expired, falling off
Furniſhes
thofe that
with fhips,
are afraid,
•
the
1
COMMENTARIES.
405
the bed, the noiſe alarmed his people; immediately his friends A FRIC.
and phyſicians came tò his relief, but in vain they endeavour- WAR,
ed to bind up his wound, for he forced it open again with his Cato kills
own hands, and died with the firmeft refolution. Though himfelf.
hated by the Uticans, when alive, becauſe of his different
party, yet now in refpect to his fingular integrity, and out
of gratitude for the wondrous fortifications he had erected
to defend their town, they interred him honourably. ÇATO
thus deceaſed, L. CÆSAR, to maſte the beſt uſe of this oc- He is ho-
cafion, affembling the people, made a ſpeech, wherein he nourably bu
adviſed them to open their gates, and depend upon cÆ- Uticans.
SAR's mercy. His counfel being fubmitted to, he marched L. Cæfar
to meet CÆSAR the Generaliffimo. And MESSALLA, be- adviſes them
to open their
ing now arrived at Utica, according to his orders, difpofed gates to Ju-
guards at every gate.
ried by the
lius Cæfar.
Cæfar takes
Ufceta
89. During thefe tranfactions CÆSAR, leaving Thapfus,
arrived at Ufceta, where SCIPIO had repofited plenty of corn, feta by
arms, darts, and other warlike provifions; having foon furrender.
carried the place, he thence purfued his journey to Adru-
metum, which immediately furrendered at difcretion: in
confideration of the corn and money he found there, he
gave quarter to Q. LIGARIUS, and C. CONSIDIUS the fon,
who was governor of the place; then leaving LIVINEIUS
REGULUS there with a legion, he marched directly for
Utica. L. CÆSAR meeting him upon the road, threw him-
ſelf at his feet, defiring nothing more than the grant of his He pardons
life, a requeſt he eaſily obtained from CÆSAR's nature and
wonted clemency. CECINA, C. ATEIUS, P. ATRIUS, the party.
two L. CELLA's, father and fon, M. EPPIUS, M. AQUINIUS,
CATO's fon, and DAMASIPPUS's children, enjoyed the like
favour. In the evening, by torch-light, he arrived at Utica,
but lodged that night without the town, to prevent difor-
ders.
feveral of
the contrary
90. Next morning early he entered the town; and having EntersUtica,
ſummoned all the inhabitants to attend him, firſt returned
the Uticans thanks for their affection, then enlarged in a
ſharp invective againſt thofe Roman citizens, and the three
hundred merchants that had furniſhed VARUS and SCIPIO
with money to carry on the war. But at laſt he ordered
them to lay afide their apprehenfions, and appear before
him; for he would pardon their lives, but confifcate their
eftates, allowing them however a liberty of redeeming them
on payment of a fine certain. The merchants, who de-
fpairing of life, were already half dead with fear, joyfully chants.
embraced fo grateful and unexpected a proffer, unanimoufly
defiring CÆSAR would pleafe to impofe an amercement in
Dd 3
grofs
Fines the
300 mer-
406
C. J. CÆSA R'S
A
Z
FRIC. grofs upon them all. He therefore ordered them to pay
WAR. two hundred thouſand fefterces to the republick, at fix
equal payments, within the ſpace of three years. Nor did
any refufe the conditions, but each efteeming it the day of
his nativity, returned CASAR fincere thanks for his mercy.
CHA P. XX.
91. In the mean time JUBA, having eſcaped with PE-
Zama, capi- TREIUS out of the battle, hid himſelf always whilſt it was
tal of Numi- day, and travelling only in the night, arrived in Numidia.
dia, refufes But when he came to Zama, the uſual place of his refi-
Juba admit-
tance.
embaffadors
to Cafar.
dence, which at the beginning of the war he had ſtrongly
fortified, having lodged his wives, children, riches, and
moſt valuable things there; the inhabitants, upon the wel-
come news of CÆSAR's victory, refuſed him admittance,
becauſe, when he firft declared war against the people of
Rome, he made confiderable quantities of wood to be car-
ried into the city, with which he erected a lofty pile in the
middle of the market-place, defigning, if he met with ill fuc-
cefs, to throw the bodies of the citizens with all their effects
upon it, and then fetting fire to it, would deftroy himself, hist
wives, children, ſubjects, and all his royal treaſure toge-
ther. He waited a long time before the gates, first making
uſe of threats, afterwards of entreaties; but finding neither
had any effect upon the people, he at laft defired they would
deliver him his wives and children, that they might ſhare his
misfortune; but perceiving they returned him no manner
of anfwer, without obtaining any of his requeſts he left
Zama, retiring with PETREIUS and a few cavalry to his
lodge in the country.
92. Soon after, the inhabitants fent embaſſadors to cÆ-
The Inhabi- SAR, who was then at Utica, to acquaint him with what
tants fend they had done, and defire he would fend a garriſon to de-
fend them, before JUBA could gather forces enough to aſ-
fault the town, though they were ready to maintain the
place for his fervice, even to the laft man, being entirely de-
voted to his intereft. CÆSAR, having given the embaſſadors
thanks, ordered them to return, and acquaint their fellow-
citizens, he himself would quickly come to their relief.
Accordingly, the day after, leaving Utica, he began his
march. Several of JUBA's officers met him upon the road,
and moft humbly fupplicated his mercy which he granted
z Bis millies H. S. Suppofing thefe to be fefterces in the neuter gender, they
were worth 71. 6s. 3 d. a 'feftèrce, at Mr. KENNET'S computation.
BLADE
LADEN: i. e. two hundred millions of fefterces, which at 2 d. cach amount
to 1,665,666 1. 13 s. 4 d. of our money.
*
:
4
Typogr.
them
COMMENTARIES.
407
them, and foon arrived at Zama. The fame of his cle- A FRIC.
mency being now divulged, almoſt all the perſons of qua- WAR.
lity in the kingdom attended him there, and received af-~~
furances of pardon.
Cæfar leaves
Utica;
Confidius
93. Whilft affairs were in this pofture, CONSIDIUS, who marches to
commanded at Tifdra, with his own retinue, a company of Zama.
gladiators, and a party of Getulians, having notice of deferts Taf-
SCIPIO's defeat, and being frightened at DOMITIUS's ap- dra.
proach with the legions, abandoned the town in defpair, His throat
and endeavouring to make his eſcape into his kingdom of guards for
Numidia with a few of the barbarians, and a confiderable the fake of
treaſure, they cut his throat upon the road for the lucre of his money,
his money, then difperfed themfelves up and down the
country.
cut by his
And now c. VIRGILIUS, finding it was in vain to make Virgilius
any further defence after he was inveſted by ſea and land, furrenders
confidering all his party were either killed or diſperſed;
Thapfus.
that CATO had laid violent hands upon himſelf at Utica;
that JUBA wandered up and down deferted and deſpiſed by
his fubjects; that SABURA's forces were routed by SITIUS;
that CÆSAR had been received without the leaft oppofition
at Utica'; and that of ſo numerous an army, not the leaft
remainder was left from whence he might expect relief;
capitulated with CANINIUS REBILUS, and furrendered him-
felf, his effects, and the town, to the proconful.
1
94. JUBA, being refufed admittance by all his cities, was Juba and
reduced to deſpair; wherefore he and PETREIUS, that they content kill
Petreius by
might make au honourable exit, engaged each other with each other.
their fwords; but JUBA, being the ftronger of the two, foun
diſpatched PETREIUS; afterwards attempting to run him-
felf through the body, and finding he was not able to
effect it, he procured that favour from one of his fervants.
kills Sabura,
95. In the mean time P. SITIUS engaging SABURA, Sitius de-
JUBA's lieutenant general, defeated his army, killing him feats and
upon the fpot; afterwards marching through Mauritania to Takes Afra-
CÆSAR, by accident he fell in with FAUSTUS and AFRA- nius and
NIUS, at the head of the party which had plundered Utica; Sylla.
who now amounted to about fifteen hundred, and defigned
to tranſport themſelves to Spain. Wherefore having dif-
poſed an ambuſcade over night, he fell upon them the next They are
morning early with fuch fuccefs, that all were either killed or killed by the
taken, except a few in the rear that made their efcape. foldiers.
Amongst the number of the prifoners were AFRANIUS
FAUSTUS SYLLA, with his wife and children. Not many
days after, a mutiny arifing amongst the foldiers, they cut
Dd4
AFRANIUS
1
408
C. J. CÆSA R'S
AFRIC.
FRIC. AFRANIUS and SYLLA to pieces. But CESAR took care
WAR. of POMPEIA, SYLLA's wife, and his children, reſtoring them
to their eſtates.
of Hippo;
Scipio, with
feveral o-
96. About the fame time SCIPIO, DAMASIPPUS, TOR-
thers, forced QUA TUS, and PLÆTORIUS RUSTIANUS, long toffed by
into the port adverfe winds upon the fea, inſtead of arriving at Spain, as
they defigned, were obliged to put into the haven of Hippo,
where SITIUS's fleet rode at anchor; whofe larger gallies.
foon funk their ſmaller ſhips, by which means SCIPIO with
his companions periſhed.
their ships
are funk
there.
Cæfar fines
97. CESAR, after he had expofed the goods of king
JUBA, and thofe Roman citizens who had borne arms
againſt their country, to public ſale, gave great rewards to
the inhabitants that had adviſed ſhutting the gates of Zama
againſt their king, and having freed the people from the
heavy impofts they had lain under, changed the kingdom
into a province, leaving CRISPUS SALLUSTIUS governor;
and then returned again to Utica.
Here likewife he confiſcated the effects of thofe officers
the cities that had ſerved under JUBA and PETREIUS, fined the peo-
that were in ple of Thapfus twenty thouſand ſeſterces, and the company
the enemy's of Roman merchants there thirty thoufand; thofe of Adru-
intereft.
Idibus Jun.
Cæfar ar-
rives in Sar-
dinia, or
Cagliari.
a. d. iii Cal.
Quint. i
May 26.
Per Jul.
4668.
metum thirty thouſand more, and their company fifty_thou-
fand, but preferved them from being plundered. Leptis,
which JUBA had fome years before ranfacked, and upon
complaint made to the fenate had reftitution made by ar-
bitrators, was ordered every year to furniſh the republick
with thirty thouſand pounds of oil; becauſe at the begin-
ning of the war, by feditious advice, its chief inhabitants
had made an alliance with the king of Numidia, whom
they affifted with arms, foldiers, and money: but the peo-
ple of Tifdra, by reaſon of their extreme poverty, were
only condemned annually to pay a certain quantity of
corn.
98. The war thus decided, CÆSAR embarked at Utica
the fourteenth of April, and arrived at Carales in Sardinia
within three days after: Here he amerced the Sulcitani,
for receiving and aiding NASIDIUS's fleet, a hundred thou-
fand fefterces: and whereas they formerly uſed only to pay
a tenth, now he impofed an eighth upon them, and ordered
fome few perfons goods to be fold; afterwards on the
twenty-ninth of April, weighing anchor at Carales, failed
along the coafts, and arrived within eight and twenty days
at Rome; having been obliged to put into feveral havens
by contrary winds,
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36
HIRTIUS PANSA, or OPPIUS's
COMMENTARY
OF THE
SPANISH WAR.
The CONTENTS.
CÆSAR's arrival in Spain. The occafion of the war.
The battle of Munda. The taking of Cordova and
Sevil. The death of POMPEY's eldeft fon. The
taking of Munda. The fiege of Urfaon. And
CÆSAR's imperfect speech.
P
CHAP. I.
SPANISH
WAR.
U. C. Var.
HARNACES defeated and Africa reduced, thoſe
who with young CNEIUS POMPEY had eſcaped the
flaughter, got poffeffion of the farther Spain, whilft
CESAR was employed in diftributing rewards in Italy. Per Jul.
POMPEY, the better to ftrengthen his party, began to in- 4669.
finuate himſelf into the favour of every ſtate; and partly 709.
by entreaty, partly by menaces, having levied a confider- Young
able army, he began to lay the province wafte. Some Pompey and
his party get
cities freely fent him fupplies, whilſt others ſhut their gates
poffefiion of
againſt him; but if any of the latter happened to fall into the farther
his hands by affault, fo little regard did he fhew, even to Spain.
his father's best friends, that, if they were accounted rich,
he quickly found an occafion to cut them off, and diſtri-
bute their effects amongft his licentious followers. His fol-
diers meeting fo good encouragement, their number foon
encreaſed; wherefore they that were in CESAR's intereft,
diſpatched frequent couriers into Italy, to demand his pro-
tection.
2. CÆSAR
!
410
C. J. CÆSAR'S
3
SPANISH 2. CÆSAR had now compleated his third dictatorſhip,
WAR. was choſen a fourth time to the fame office; when making
what hafte he could to diſpatch the war in Spain, after fe-
veral days journey, he met the deputies from Cordova upon
the road, who had deferted from CN. POMPEY: they in-
formed him, he might eafily furpriſe their town by night,
for the enemy, as yet, knew nothing of his arrival in the
province, notwithſtanding they had diſpoſed ſcouts in every
place, to bring them notice of it. Many other things they
likewife propofed, which appeared fo feafible, that CESAR
immediately fent his lieutenants Q. PEDIUS and Q FABIUS
MAXIMUS advice of his coming, and commanded them to
attend him with all the cavalry in their province. He
finiſhed his journey much fooner than he expected, and
when he came to the place of rendezvous, found his orders
punctually performed.
Ulla befieged
by young
Pompey.
Cæfar
the town.
3. SEXTUS POMPEY now commanded in chief at Cor-
dova, with a strong garrifon (for this they accounted the
capital of the province) whilft his elder brother inveſted
Ulla, where he had been employed for fome months. The
befieged having notice of CESAR's arrival, contrived to
fend meffengers to him defiring he would immediately come
to their affiftance. CESAR remembering how faithful the
people of Ulla had always been to the republick, about
throws fup- nine o'clock that night detached eleven cohorts, with a
•plies into
proportionable number of horfe to their relief, under the
command of L. JULIUS PACIECUs, an experienced officer,
who was well acquainted with the country. He happened
to arrive at POMPEY's quarters, when it rained fo violently,
and the wind blew ſo hard, that it was difficult to diftinguiſh
even the neareſt perfon; which was a lucky opportunity,
and as well improved; for PACIECUS, ordering the horſe
to march two by two directly through the enemy's lines to
the town, when they were in the midſt of them, and the
queftion was afked, Who went there?" they made anſwer,
"They had taken that occafion to approach the walls, and
ftorm the town, therefore bid them be filent."
Thus they
got fafe to the gates, and upon the ſignal given, were ad-
mitted in; for part of SCIPIO's guards were prevented
from doing their duty by the tempeft, and the reft were fatif-
fied with the anſwer PACIECUS's foldiers made them. Having
fo luckily fucceeded in this attempt, both horfe and infantry
together, leaving a party within the town, made fo vigo-
rous a fally upon the enemy, who knew nothing of their ar-
2 PLUTARCH fays he was conful, not dictator, when he went into Spain.
rival,
+
COMMENTARIES.
411
arrival, that the greatest part of POMPEY's forces with SPANISH
much difficulty preferved themſelves from being taken WAR.
priſoners.
obliges Pom-
4. This fupply thrown into Ulla, CESAR, that he might. Cæfar be-
oblige POMPEY to quit the fiege, marched directly for fieges Cor-
Cordova, fending a fquadron of cavalry, and fome felect dova, fo
heavy-armed foot before. As foon as this party arrived pey to quit
within fight of the town, the infantry got up behind the Ulla.
troopers; which the people of Cordova could not obſerve ;
but when the enemy's horfe made a fally to engage them,
our foot diſmounted and returned their charge fo warmly,
that out of a confiderable number, but few returned to the
town. This action fo alarmed SEXTUS POMPEY that
he wrote to his brother to haften to him with ſupplies im-
mediately, left CESAR fhould take the place before he ar-
rived. Thus CN. POMPEY, having almoſt rendered him-
felf maſter of Ulla, on receipt of his brother's packet, was
obliged to break up, and march with all his forces to Cor-
dova.
CHAP. II.
b
5. WHEN CÆSAR came to the banks of the * Guadal- * Bætis.
quiver, finding the river too deep to be forded, he cauſed
baſkets full of ſtones to be ſunk, whereon he erected a
bridge over-againſt the town: which was fupported by
double beams, as we have already defcribed, and having
paffed his army over it, divided them into three parties.
b The text is, Ita infuper ponte falto, copias ad caftra tripartito tranſduxit.
Tenebant adverfus oppidum e regione foutis trabes, ut fupra fcripfimus, bipartito.
To me theſe ſentences do not only feem corrupt, but tranfpofed; for the very
next period fays, Huc quum Pompeius cum fuis copiis veniffet, & ex adverfo pari
ratione caftra pofuit; which appears to have a more immediate connexion with
the last fentence but one than the last; therefore I have taken the liberty of
tranſlating them in that order. I have likewife converted Pontis into Pontem,
which, in my opinion, is the more natural conftruction of the two; for tenc-
bant and fuftinebant fignify the fame thing in fome places. That part, Ut fupra
feripfimus, probably may refer to CESAR's defcription of the bridge over the
Rhine: but I have already spoken more at large on that fubject in my pre-
face. Monfieur D'ABLANCOURT tranflates, Copias ad caftra tripartito tranſ-
duxit, Paffa à trois fois toute fon armée. And had CESAR paffed his army
over in ferry-boats, that could only have held fuch a number at a time, I
fhould fubmit to his opinion; but I cannot conceive the neceflity of making
three paffages when there was a bridge; therefore have rather choſe to apply
the tripartito to caftra than tranfduxit. BLADEN. STEPHENS'S Copy reads
tendebant; whence DAVIES reads better, Tendebant adverfus oppidum e regione
pontis (tranfiffe ut fupra fcripfimus) tripartito, ì. e. he pafs'd his army over
the bridge in three divifions, and encamped between the town and the bridge,
as I faid they paffed over, in three divifions likewife. What follows concern-
ing POMPEY fhews the A. was fpeaking of CESAR's encamping. Typogr...
POMPEY
412
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH POMPEY likewife arriving at the fame place, encamped
WAR. directly oppofite to him, difpofing his forces after the like
manner.
Skirmiſhes CÆSAR, that he might cut off POMPEY'S Communi-
between the cation with the town, and the more eafily intercept his con-
two armies. voys, began to draw a line of communication to the bridge,
Cæfar
invelt Ale-
gya.
and the enemy did the like; which occafioned frequent
fkirmishes between the two armies, and various fuccefs. At
laft greateſt part of each general's forces being drawn out,
whilft either endeavoured to maintain his poft, the difpute
grew warm and dubious; for when the combatants ap-
proached the bridge, they wanted room to beftir themſelves,
and confiderable numbers were thrown over into the river:
Thus the lofs was equal on both fides, for on both lay moun-
tains of the flain. CESAR however frequently effayed all
methods to draw POMPEY to an engagement on equal
terms, that he might bring the war to a conclufion as foon
as poffible.
6. But obferving, though he had obliged the enemy to
marches to diflodge, yet he could never perfuade them to accept of
battle, he caufed great fires to be made in the night, and
croffing the river with all his forces, marched to Ategua,
onc. of their ſtrongeft garrifons. POMPEY having notice
of his decamping from the deferters, retired the fame day,
with all his baggage and enfigns, through a narrow road to
Cordova: But on advice that CÆSAR had begun to inveſt
Ategua, immediately marched to relieve it. CESAR, in
the mean while, to compleat his lines, had erected ſeveral
forts, part of which were poffeffed by his horſe, part were
to ſhelter his infantry, when they watched upon an out-
Pompey guard. It happened to be a very cloudy morning, when
POMPEY arrived, which gave him an opportunity of fur-
rounding fome of our cavalry with a party of his horſe and
cohorts, and of cutting almoſt all of them to pieces.
arrives to
relieve the
place.
Pompey
encamps be-
tween Ate-
cubis.
7. The following night, POMPEY having put fire to his
camp, croffed the river Salfus, and marching through the
gua and U. valleys, encamped upon a hill, between Ategua and Ucubis,
whilſt CESAR was employed in carrying on his works,
raiſing mounts, vines, and preparing all things neceffary for
the fiege. The country hereabouts is mountainous, and
proper to encamp in, for the river Salfus runs through the
plain, about two miles diftant from Ategua. POMPEY
therefore took up his quarters between the two towns; his
army conſiſting of twelve legions, of which number thoſe
4
he
COMMENTARIES.
413
с
WAR.
he moſt depended on were, the ſecond and the Spaniſh le- SPANISH
gion, both which had deferted from TREBONIUS; one
levied amongst the Roman colonies; and another that had
formerly ferved under AFRANIUS, which he brought along
with him from Africk: as for the reft, they were compofed
chiefly of deferters and auxiliaries. But we were far fupe-
rior to him in light-armed foot and cavalry.
8. The nature of the place, the plenty of water and
provifions which all the province abounded with, enabled
POMPEY to prolong the war; nor were the numerous forts,
which had been erected in all places remote from great
towns to prevent the excurfions of the natives, lefs affift-
ant to him in this defign: for they were not covered with
tiles, but terras, as in Africk; and in them were centi-
nels, which could defcry any party at a confiderable diſt-
ance. Befides, moft of, the cities in the farther Spain be-
ing built upon hills, fortified by nature, and difficult of
acceſs, prevent an enemy's approaches, and cannot eaſily
be reduced; as plainly appeared in this war.
Whilft the enemy lay between Ategua and Ucubis,
within fight of both places, CÆSAR had poffeffed himſelf
of a certain eminence, called POSTHUMUS's camp, about
four miles diftant from his own quarters, whereon he had
built a fortreſs.
fort of Cæ-
far's, with-
out fuccefs,
9. But POMPEY, who lay nearer the place, being co- Pompey
vered by the very fame ridge, obferving it was remote attacks a
from CÆSAR's camp, who he believed would be prevented
from fending relief thither by the river Salfus; about twelve
at night began to inveft the fort, that he might deliver
Ategua from fo troublefome a neighbour. When his
party approached the place, fetting up a fudden fhout, they
caft their darts with fuch fuccefs, that they quickly wound-
ed feveral of our men.
d
But when we began to defend ourfelves, and CESAR,
on notice of the action, approached with three legions to
our relief, many of the enemy were killed or taken, others
c Compare § 13. with § 10, 12, 20.
d The original indeed is, Noftri cum appropinquaſſert, clamore repentino, te-
lorumque multitudine jactus facere cœperunt, but it is palpably corrupt; for this
action, as appears by the following ſentence, relates to POMPEY's men; there-
fore it fhould either be Illi cum, &c. or Noftris cum appropinquaſſent. BLADEN.
But it relates as well to CÆSAR's men, if with DAVIES we change the ftop,
and read---caftellum oppugnare cœpit. Ut laborantibus fuccurrerent, noftri, &c.
i. e.---began to inveft the fort. Upon their approach, CAESAR's men, to fup-
port their friends, fetting up a great fhout, caft their darts with fuch fuccefs
that they wounded feveral of the enemy. Afterwards, when we had begun to
make a good defence at the fort, and CASAR, &c. Typogr.
Aung
414
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH flung away their arms, that they might the more eafily
WAR. make their eſcape; fo that when the diſpute was over, we
found eighty fhields which they had left behind them.
Pompey
marches to
Cordova.
10. The next morning early arrived ARGUETIUS with
a party of cavalry, and five colours he had taken from thoſe
of Saguntum; but was obliged to quit his poft by Afprenas,
who came with another body of horſe from thence to
CÆSAR. This night POMPEY decamped, and marched to-
wards Cordova; but king INDUS, following their rear with
too much ardour, was taken and killed by the Spaniards.
11. The day following, our cavalry purſued a convoy
decamps; that brought provifions from Cordova to POMPEY, for a
confiderable ſpace, and took fifty prifoners befides horfes:
the fame day Q. MARCIUS, a tribune in POMPEY's army,
deferted to us; and that very night, about twelve o'clock,
the befieged began to ftorm our lines with great fury, caft-
ing plenty of combuftible matter within our trenches, either
fixed to their darts, or conveyed fome other way.
The be-
This attempt being ended, c. FUNDANIUS, a Roman
knight, came over to us.
12. The day after, two foldiers of the Spanish legion,
being taken by our men, pretended themſelves to be fervants,
but were diſcovered by thofe that had formerly ferved under
FABIUS and PEDIUS, to be deferters from TRERONIUS,
and were therefore put to death. About the fame time,
the couriers that were diſpatched from Cordova to POM-
PEY, miſtaking our camp for his, had their right-hands
cut off, and were difmifled. In the mean while the be-
ficged in fieged, according to their uſual cuſtom, about nine o'clock
vain attempt at night, ſpent a confiderable time in cafting darts and fire
upon our foldiers; which wounded ſeveral of them; and
by break of day fallied out upon the fixth legion, whilſt
our forces were bufy about the works, and began a ſharp
difpute; but were repulfed with many wounds, by the
bravery of our men, notwithſtanding they had the advan-
tage of the ground.
to force.
Cæfar's
lines.
13. The day after, POMPEY began to draw a line of
communication from his camp to the river Salfus, and fur-
prized a fmall party of our horſe, who were obliged, after
the death of three troopers, to give way to his fuperior
numbers. This day A. VALGUS, a fenator's fon, whoſe
e 'The text does not exactly agree with this, but can't be understood any
other way:
f The next fentence is exactly the fame, only different in the manner of ex-
prefion, therefore I have left it out,
brother
COMMENTARIES.
415
WAK.
brother was in POMPEY's camp, leaving all his baggage SPANISH
behind him, mounted his horſe, and went over to the ene-
my. One of POMPEY's fpies, that belonged to the fecond
legion, being taken, was put to the fword: but about the
fame time POMPEY fhot a billet into Ategua with this in-
ſcription, "The moment CASAR fhould endeavour to
ftorm the town, he would come to their affiſtance:" which
put the befieged in fuch hopes, that they afcended their
walls with lefs apprehenfions than before, and began to flat-
ter themſelves, they might & hold out. The day after we
overthrew a confiderable part of their outward rampier;
the enemy took fome of our foldiers priſoners, who had
formerly deſerted from them, but difmiffed them to CÆSAR
with fome of the chief officers of the garrifon, that they
might obtain for them the liberty of marching out with
their baggage. To which CÆSAR replied, "It was not
his custom to let the enemy chooſe their conditions, but to
impoſe them at his pleafure." When the befieged received
this anfwer, fetting up a fhout, they began to caft fhowers
of darts upon our men, and attack us in our trenches,
which made moft people believe they would attempt a fally:
wherefore furrounding the town on every fide, we engaged
them very briſkly, plying them at the ſame inftant with our
engines, which killed five of their men in one turret, and
a boy, whoſe buſineſs it was to obferve our battery.
*
Pompey
builds a fort
on the other
fus.
14.
Some time after POMPEY erected a fort on the other
fide the Salfus, without meeting any oppofition, and was not
a little proud to think he had been able to effect ſuch a de-fide the Sal-
ſign, ſo near us. The day after, endeavouring to carry on
his lines, fome of his cavalry and light-armed foot en-
countered another party of our horfe, who were foon obliged
to give ground, being inferior to the enemy in number, and
wanting infantry to ſuſtain them. This action happened Afkirmiſh,
within view of both camps, and POMPEY, ſeeing his men
purſue, was not a little elated with the fuccefs: but our ca- worst.
valry having retreated fome paces, and being reinforced by
a party of foot, faced about and renewed the fight with
equal vigour.
15. Whenever a trooper difmounts to engage a foot
foldier, he generally finds himſelf over matched, as ap-
peared in the late action, when a felect number of light-
armed infantry, on a fudden attacked our horfe, who
8 The text is not tenere, but potiri, which muſt of neceffity be a corruption:
but this book is fo full of errors, I fhall for the future give the reader and my-
felf no further trouble, than to mark fuch places thus *
where Pom-
pey has the
alighted
41.6
C. J. CÆSAR'S
WAR.
SPANISH alighted to fuftain the charge. Thus, in a moment, from a
horſe it became a foot fkirmiſh; and again, from a foot,
a horſe rencounter. Not far off from our rampier was
a confiderable flaughter made; for on the enemy's fide fell
an hundred and twenty-three, feveral were difarmed, and
the reft obliged to fly to their quarters; on our fide three
were killed, befides twelve foot and five troopers wounded.
The remainder of the day the fight was maintained from
fon of Ate- the walls as ufual. At length, when they had caft many
gua put the javelins, and much fire upon our men to no purpoſe, moſt
to the fword, inhumanly, before our eyes, they began to murder the
townfmen, and threw them over the walls, as is cuftomary
among the Barbarians; an action which has not been heard
of among us ſince the memory of man.
The garri-
townfmen
16. In the evening they privately fent an incendiary to
fet fire to our turrets and rampier, defigning that night,
Make ano- about twelve, to make an eruption. Accordingly, having
ther fally to thrown plenty of darts, and confumed a confiderable part
no purpoſe. of our rampier, opening that gate which fronted POMPEY'S
camp, they fally'd out with all their forces, bringing faf-
cines along with them to fill up the ditches, hooks to de-
ftroy the barracks (which our men had covered with ſtraw,
to defend them from the cold) and fire to reduce them to
afhes: fo likewiſe, to amuſe our foldiers, they brought all
their effects along with them, that, whilft we ſhould be
employed in feizing the plunder, they might fight their
way through, and eſcape to POMPEY, who, expecting
their arrival, watched with all his forces, in order of battle,
on the other fide the Salfus, to favour their retreat. But
though they furpriſed us, yet by the bravery of our refo-
lution, we drove them back again with many wounds into
the town, making ourſelves mafters of the fpoil, their
arms, and fome prifoners, who were killed the day after.
The next day a deſerter that came from Ategua in-
formed us, JUNIUS was employed in the mine whilſt the
maffacre happened amongſt the inhabitants; * but upon
his return, feverely reprimanded the foldiers for being guil-
ty of fo bloody and ungrateful an action, by which they
had violated the laws of hofpitality againft thoſe who had
made them partakers of all their domeftic and religious pri
vileges; adding many things more to the like purpoſe,
which put a ftop for the future to fuch inhuman practices.
fent to treat 17. The following day TULLIUS, with CATO the Por-
of a furren- tugueſe, were fent as deputies to CESAR, who opened
their embaffy in theſe words: "We could heartily with
Deputies
der.
Their
Speech.
the
**
COMMENTARIESCOME
417
.
the immortal gods had ordained us to have been your fol- SPANISH
diers rather than POMPEY's; that fo we might have given WAR,
theſe proofs of our conftancy in attending on your victories,
not in being companions of his fufferings; fince the fruit
of our fidelity is only this, that being born with the privi-
leges of Roman citizens we ſee the deſolation of our coun-
try, and ourſelves given up as the enemies of it. It has
been our hard destiny to ferve a man, whofe profperity we
fhared not, nor have been able to affift him in his adver-
fity: in fine, having long fuftained the attack of fo many
legions, watching night and day to oppofe your defigns;
deferted by POMPEY, and overcome by your fuperior bra-
very, we have nothing left to depend on but your mercy:
We conjure you therefore not to fhew lefs compaffion to
furrendering Romans, than you have done to foreigners."
"The compaffion, replied CÆSAR, I have fhewn to fo-
reigners, I extend to you."
18. CÆSAR having difpatched the embaffadors, as c.
ANTONIUS entered the town, he perceived TIB. TULLIUS
did not follow him; wherefore, returning to the gate,
he caught hold of him, upon which TULLIUS cut off
ANTONIUS's hand, and fo made his eſcape to CESAR.
About the fame time a ftandard-bearer of the first legion
came over, who informed us, the day the engagement hap-
pened between the horfe, thirty-five of his company were
killed: but they were not permitted to fay they had loft a
fingle man in POMPEY's camp. Not long after, a flave in
CÆSAR'S camp having murdered his mafter, who had left
his wife and children in the town, made his eſcape to
POMPEY; * and gave CÆSAR an account, by a letter
faſtened to a bullet, what condition of defence the town was
in. Afterwards, when they whoſe bufinefs it was to throw
fuch bullets, were returned into the town, two Portugueſe
brothers came over to CÆSAR, and gave him an account
what meffage POMPEY had fent them, That fince he could
not relieve them, he advifed the befieged privately to with-
draw in the night towards the fea: to which one making Pompey's
anfwer, It were more honourable to venture another en-
gagement, than appear to fly; he was immediately killed.
About the fame time we intercepted * one of their couriers
that was carrying a packet to the town: CÆSAR deliveređ
the letters to the inhabitants, and the meffenger begging
his life, had it granted, with promile of further reward,
provided he fet fire to the enemy's wooden turret ; which
could not be effected without imminent danger. He un-
te
*
de.took
advice to the
beteged.
418
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH dertook the enterprize; but going to execute the defigri,
WAR. was killed by the befieged. The fame night a deſerter in-
formed us, POMPEY and LABIENUS were very angry to
hear the townfmen had been murdered.
Another in-
effectual
fally.
tius's letter
to Cæfar.
19. About nine o'clock at night, the enemy formed a
wooden turret of ours fo vigorously, that the firft, fecond
and third ſtory began to fall: whilſt others, at the ſame
inftant, attacked our trenches, and having a fair wind, ſet
fire to the upper part of the fame tower. The next morn-
ing a matron caft herſelf over the wall, and came to our
camp, telling us her maid was joined in the fame attempt,
L. Minu but, being apprehended, was put to death. And not long af-
ter a letter was found, wherein was thus written, "L.
MINUCIUS to CESAR: If you will pardon my life, fince
I am deferted by POMPEY, I will ferve you with the fame
Deputies fincerity I have done my duty to him." And at the fame.
fent again. time the town fent the former embaſſadors again to CÆSAR,
defiring only their lives, and they would deliver up the
Cæfar's an-place the next day. To which he reply'd, "He was
fwer. CÆSAR, and they might be fecure in his promiſe." Thus
furrenders. Ategua furrendered the nineteenth of February, and CA-
SAR was faluted thereupon with the title of Imperator.
The town
Pompey re-
Cæfar fol-
CHA P. III.
20. POMPEY having notice from fome deferters, that
moves near- the town had changed its maſter, removed nearer Ucubis,
er Ucubis. where he began to build fortreffes, and contain himſelf
lows him. Within his lines. CESAR likewife decamped, and lodged
as near him as he could. About this time we were in-
formed by a Spaniſh legionary foldier, who deferted to us,
that POMPEY had affembled the inhabitants of Ucubis, and
commanded them to make ftrict enquiry after all male-
contents. Some time before this the flave that had mur-
dered his maſter, being taken in a mine, was burned alive;
and eight more foldiers of the Spaniſh legion came over to
us but a party of our horfe and light-armed infantry en-
countring another of the enemy, were worſted, and fome
of them wounded. This evening our ſcouts furprized three
fervants and fome Spaniſh foldiers; the former were hanged,
and the latter beheaded.
21. The day following, fome of the enemy's cavalry
and light-armed foot deferted to us; at the fame time about
eleven of their horfe falling in with a party of our foldiers
that were ſent out to fetch water, killed fome, and took
others priſoners; amongft which number were eight troopers.
The
COMMENTARIES.
419
The next morning POMPEY condemned feventy-four per- SPANISH
fons to be beheaded for favouring CESAR's caufe, and WA R.
gave orders for apprehending others; but a hundred and
twenty made their eſcape to CÆSAR.
*
ties murder-
round the
Pompey
condemns
22. After this fome of the inhabitants of Offuna, whom ſeveral to
CÆSAR had taken prifoners at Ategua, were fent to ac-death, o-
thers eſcape
quaint their countrymen what ufage they muſt expect from to Cæfar.
POMPEY, whoſe foldiers had maffacred the people of A- The nego-
tegua, and committed ſeveral other outrages in their pre-tationla.
fence. When they arrived at the town, attended by fome Ro-
man knights and fenators of our party, no one durſt enter,
except thoſe that were natives of the place. In fine, after
many meffages carried backwards and forwards, as the de-
puties were retiring to our party, the garrifon purfued, and The depu
put them all to the fword, except two that made theired.
eſcape to CÆSAR. *However, the inhabitants of Burfavola The townſ-
having fent fpies to Ategua, to learn the truth of the de-men fur-
puties report, and finding what they had told them con- governor ;
firmed, raiſed a tumult, and furrounding the governor, he narrowly
reſolved to ſtone him, for having caufed the embaffadors eſcapes,
to be murdered: but they fpared him upon his earneſt
fuit that he might be indulged the liberty of clearing him-
felf before CÆSAR. Under this pretence being difiniffed,
he gathered a ſtrong party, and was admitted within the
gates by treachery in the night; where he made a dreadful
flaughter amongst the townfmen; and having cut off the murders the
chief men of the contrary party, again reduced the town inhabitants.
into his power. When this was over, as we were in-
formed by fome fervants that deferted, he confifcated the
inhabitants goods, and permitted no one to ftir out without
leaving their arms; for fince Ategua was taken, feveral
being frightened, and defpairing of fuccefs, had come over
to us. But when any of ours deſerted, * they met not
with equal encouragement, for they were placed among the
light-armed infantry, and received only their pay, fix-
teen affes a day.
*
**
*
Returns and
er to Pom-
23. The day following CESAR removed his camp Cæfar re-
nearer POMPEY's, and began to draw a line to the river moves near-
Salfus; but whilft our men were employ'd about the works,
a ftrong party of the enemy's forces came pouring down pey
from the higher ground upon them, and wounded feveral.
Whereupon, * contrary to their uſual cuſtom, they began
to
a
retreat; which being obferved, fome centurions of
the fifth legion croffed the river to fuftain them. The dif
a Ut ait Ennius, Noftri ceffere parumper,
E e 2
pute
420
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH pute was carried on with great vigour; but one of the cen→
WAR. turions having received many wounds from the darts that
fell from the higher ground, expired: his fellow-officer,
after his death, ftill endeavoured to maintain his ground,
till finding himſelf furrounded on every fide, he began to
A ſkirmiſh :* retreat; and ftumbling, multitudes of the enemy flocked
Cæfar's par- about him. Yet they were foon repulfed by our horfe,
ty get the who obliged them to retreat to their rampier; but perfifting
better.
An action:
Cæfar victo-
rious.
with too much ardour, were intercepted by POMPEY's ca-
valry and light-armed foot. So that if they had not behaved
themſelves with the utmoft bravery, they had all been taken;
being driven into fo narrow a compafs, that they had hardly
room enough to move their arms. *In this action were
wounded ſeveral horſe and foot, amongſt the reſt CLODIUS
AQUITIUS; but our party came off victorious, having only
loft the two centurions.
24. The day after both armies withdrawing from Sari-
caria, we continued our works: but POMPEY perceiving
his communication with the fort of Afpavia cut off, found
himſelf obliged to fight: However, he did not proffer us
battle upon equal terms, but drew up upon a hill, that he
might have the advantage of the upper ground. Both
armies therefore having contended for a certain eminence,
our men forced them to retire into the plain; which gained
us the day we made a dreadful flaughter amongſt them on
every fide, whilft they fled before us, and were obliged to
the next rifing ground, not to their courage, for prefer-
vation. But had not the night befriended them, though in-
ferior in number, * we had certainly cut them all to pieces;
for three hundred twenty-four of their light-armed in-
fantry, and a hundred thirty-eight of their legionary foldiers,
fell upon the place, not computing thoſe that were dif-
armed. Thus the lofs of the two centurions, but the day
before, was richly vindicated.
*
25. The next day POMPEY's horfe, according to their
ufual cuſtom, came towards our lines, for none but his ca-
valry durft venture to draw up upon even ground. Hither
they flocked in confiderable numbers, whilſt our men were
employed about the works, frequently calling upon our
legionary foldiers, and provoking them to an engagement,
* defigning, if we purfued, when they fhould have drawn
us fome diftance from the camp, to face about and give us
battle. Our men having advanced fome paces beyond the
between valley they were pofted on, halted on a more equal place;
Turpio and whereupon the enemy did not think fitting to engage them.
"The combat
Niger.
*
But
COMMENTARIES.
421
But ANTISTIUS TURPIO, one of their party, depending on SPANISH
his ſtrength, and thinking no perſon able to encounter him, WAR.
profeffed himſelf the champion of the caufe: QUINTUS
POMPEIUS NIGER, a Roman knight, born in Italy, foon
accepted the challenge, and their meeting was not unlike
that of a ACHILLES and MEMNON.
b *
*Both armies being drawn out, their minds were wholly
intent on the ſucceſs of the combatants, each impatiently
expecting the fate of their champion. The knights
defcended into the field with equal fprightlinefs, armed with
refplendent ſhields; and they had certainly been parted, but
for our foldiers, who had diſpoſed themſelves not far off, to
prevent the defigns of the enemy's horfe and light-armed
infantry. When our men were retreating towards the
lines, the enemy fell upon their rear with great fury: but,
facing about, we returned their charge with ſuch vigour,
that they were obliged to retire to their camp, after having
loft feveral of their party.
26. CASSIUS's horſe behaved themſelves fo well on this
occafion, that CÆSAR rewarded them with a preſent of thir-
teen thousand fefterces; amongst the light-armed foot he
diſtributed ten thouſand more, and gave the captain of the
party two golden chains. This day likewife A. BÆBIUS,
C. FLAVIUS, and A. TREBELLIUS, all Roman knights of
Afta, came over to CÆSAR loaden with treaſure, report-
ing, all the Roman knights in POMPEY's army had agreed
to do the like; but their deſign being diſcovered by a ſlave,
they were apprehended.
Not long after, we took a courier with a packet, from
POMPEY to the people of Offuna*: "Wifhing you the fame.
health we at preſent enjoy, this is to acquaint you, we have
hitherto had all the fuccefs we could defire over the enemy,
and ſhould put an end to the war fooner than you could
expect, provided they would but offer us battle upon equal
terms. But they dare not bring their raw army into the
•
a This citation, though trifling for an hiftorian, is abundantly more pardona-
ble than the former, where, in the midſt of an important defcription, he quotes
Ennius's authority for a common phrafe, which I have remarked in the fore-
going leaf, ut ait Ennius, Noftri ceffere parumper; a way of writing by no means
agreeable to the ſtate and gravity required in an hiſtoric ſtyle.
But whether got the victory, this careleſs author, or his more negligent
tranfcribers, have left undetermined. Yet one would believe Niger had the
better of it, becauſe Cæfar's men prevented their being parted,
c According to Mr. KENNET's computation, is. 3 d. each, for I cannot
fuppofe them to be in the neuter gender. BLADEN. Tredecim feftertia or tre-
decim millia feſtertiüm, 13,000 ſeſterces, at z d. each, amounting to 10&l,
66. Sd. Engliſh moncy.
E e 3
plain,
422
C. J. CESAR'S
SPANISH plain, and only prolong the war by the affiftance of thoſe
WAR. forts they have furprized. For removing from one
Pompey de-
camps;
ville.
country to another, they fupply themſelves with corn.
But we ſhall take care to cover thoſe ſtates which are un-
der our protection, and decide the war as foon as poffible.
We defign to fend you fome cohorts for your defence,
and doubt not, but when we fhall have intercepted the
enemy's fupplies, they will find themfelves obliged to
fight."
27. Some time after, our men being carelefly diſperſed
about the works, a party of our cavalry, that went to fetch
wood, were killed by the enemy in a thicket of olives.
This day came over feveral flaves, who informed us, that
ever ſince the action on the fifth of March at Soritia, all
POMPEY's army had been in continual apprehenfions, and
ATEIUS VARUS had been appointed to ſurvey their lines.
Immediately after, POMPEY removed, and encamped in
marches to- an olive wood near Seville. But CASAR did not follow
wards Se him till midnight, giving orders to the garrifon he had
Cæfar burns put into Ucubis when it furrendered, to ſet fire to the
Ucubis, and town, and afterwards to join the reſt of his army. Ventif-
ponte ſurrendered to him by the way; from thence he
marched to Carruca, and took up his quarters over-againſt
POMPEY'S: who, before his arrival, had reduced the
town to aſhes, the inhabitants having refuſed him entrance.
Here, apprehending a* deferter from our army, who had
murdered his brother, we put him to death. Then we
Pompey to pursued POMPEY to the plains of Munda, and ſat down
the plains of directly oppoſite to him.
follows him.
Purfues
Munda.
\
CHAP.
IV.
28. THE day following, as CESAR defigned to march
further, he had notice that POMPEY's army had been drawn
out in order of battle * a confiderable time. He intended
to have marched towards Offuna, to convince the inhabi-
tants, as raw as his army was, that he durft venture to
defcend into the plains, notwithſtanding POMPEY's letter,
which had given them fo great hopes, and perfuaded them
he had fo much the advantage. However, fo foon as he
received this intelligence, he immediately gave the ſign of
battle, though the enemy had the advantage of the ground,
and were defended by the fortifications of Munda, near
which they lay encamped; for, as we have already taken
notice, the beſt towns are built upon hills.
4
29. Here
**
COMMENTARIES.
423
29. Here I muſt not omit to give an account what hap- SPANISH
pened at this juncture. Between both armies lay a plain WAR.
about five miles over; but POMPEY was defended, as well
by the nature of the place he poffeffed, as the town, attion of the
A defcrip-
the foot whereof began this valley, through which ran a place of
river, that ferved as well as the rifing ground to prevent action.
our approach to the enemy; for on the right, overflowing
its banks, it made a morals. CESAR doubted not in the
leaft but the enemy would meet him half way, becauſe
the plain was within view of * Munda. Befides, having
* difpofed their cavalry on the lower ground, the day
being ferene, and the fun fhining bright, our foldiers began
to rejoice, that the immortal gods had bleffed them with
fo happy an opportunity; though fome were uneafy to
think, how foon the fate of both parties fhould be placed
in the balance of fortune. Thus we proceeded to give
them battle, expecting they would do the like: But when
we arrived within a thoufand paces of the town, the ene-
my did not think fit to advance towards us, ftill continu-
ing cloſe by the walls. Wherefore we marched fo near,
that the equality of the ground might invite them to the
engagement: nor was this fufficient to entice them from
the mountains; where they continued till our men, arriving
at the river, made a halt.
armies.
3c. Their army confifted of thirteen legions; their The difpofi-
wings were lined with cavalry and fix thouſand light-armed tion of both
foot, befides as many auxiliaries. But we had only eighty
cohorts, and eight thouſand horfe. Thus when we arrived
at the extreme part of the valley, the enemy ſtood ready
on the higher ground, to prevent our further progrefs.
Which CESAR obferving, that his rafhnefs might not
draw his foldiers into an inconvenience, he cauſed a mark
to be made, beyond which they were not permitted to
paſs; which reftraint rendered them more eager. This
paufe likewife made the enemy more inclinable to engage,
whilſt they fancied our men were afraid of them: where-
fore* deſcending a few paces from the higher ground,
they gave us an opportunity of coming at them, though
not without danger: however, our men, fetting up a fhout,
began the charge.
The tenth legion, according to CÆSAR'S ufual cuſtom, The battle
was placed in the right; the third and fifth, with the aux- begins,
iliaries and horfe, in the left.
31. The difpute was maintained with great obftinacy
on both fides; for though they had the advantage of the
E e 4
ground,
424
C. J. CÆSA R'S
SPANISH ground, yet that was compenfated by our bravery. How-
WAR. ever, ſo great was the noife, fo dreadful the concourfe, fo
thick flew the darts, that our foldiers began to deſpair of
victory; for the enemy returned our firit charge, which is
uſually of greateft confequence in a battle, with equal vi-
gour. * The fight had continued dubious for fome time,
when a fhower of javelins, from our fide, made a dreadful
flaughter amongft POMPEY'S forces. Whereupon the
tenth legion, which we have already obferved to have been
poſted in the right, put the enemy's left wing into a
great diforder, and obliged them to give ground, till ano-
ther legion detached from the * right of their army, came
to fuftain them, and prevent their being furrounded. In
the mean time our cavalry in the left, laying hold of this
opportunity, preffed the enemy's right, who in return
maintained the charge fo vigorously that there was no room
for aid to interpofe. The fhouting of the foldiers, inter-
mix'd with groans, and the claſhing of arms, did not a
little terrify our new levies; for here, as ENNIUS fays,
Foot to foot was fet, and arm to arm. But at length,
after a vigorous refiftance, the enemy gave ground, and
* retired to the town; fome few of them embracing the
only means left for faving themfelves, that of efcaping to the
place they came from. In this action, which happened
on the feaſt of Bacchus, POMPEY loft near thirty thouſand
men, amongſt which number were LABIENUS and AT-
TIUS VARUS, whofe funerals were celebrated after the
battle: befides three thouſand Roman knights, part of
Rome, part of the Province. We took all their eagles,
feveral other enfigns, and POMPEY's fafces, with feventeen
general officers. Whereas on our fide were only a thou-
fand, part horfe, part infantry, killed, and five hundred
wounded.
Pompey
defeated.
Mar. 17.
xvi Kal,
Apr,
Munda in-
vested.
CHAP. V.
d
32. SUCH was the event of this battle; they who
eſcaped retired into Munda, which obliged us to draw a
line of circumvallation about the town. We made ufe of
the enemies dead bodies inftead of turfs; their fhields and
javelins heaped fupplied the place of a rampier; round about
were fixed the heads of the deceaſed on ſwords and daggers,
d The fecond time he has cited ENNIUS,
e PLUTARCH and APPIAN give a different account of this battle, and tell
US, CESAR was never before engaged in fo dangerous an action; here, he used
to fay, he fought for life, in other places for victory.
to
COMMENTARIES.
42.5
to ftrike the greater terror into the beſieged, * and let them SPANISH
fee the rewards they were to expect for their obftinacy. WAR.
* The management of this fiege was committed to the
Gauls, who having thus compleated their lines, began to
affault the town with darts and javelins.
Cordova,
with the de-
feat, who
town.
Young VALERIUS, having made his eſcape with a few Valerius
cavalry, retired to Cordova; where he acquainted SEXTUS efcapes to
POMPEY with the melancholy news: who thereupon im- acquaints the
mediately divided what ready money he had * amongſt the younger
horfe, and pretending he was going to treat with CÆSAR
Pompey
concerning a peace, about nine o'clock the fame night left
Cordova. In the mean time his elder brother, with a thereupon
fmall party of cavalry and foot, made the best of his way quits the
towards his navy, which lay at Carteia, a town about a
hundred and feventy miles diftant from Cordova. When The elder
he was arrived within eight miles of the place, he fent P. Pompey flies
CALVITIUS, the marfhal of his camp, before, to fetch a
litter to carry him to the town, finding himfelf indifpofed.
His orders were obeyed, and when he entered Carteia, fe-
veral of his friends attended him, privately to enquire about
the ſtate of affairs. But the whole town foon flocking
about him, * he found himſelf obliged to acquaint them
with the truth, and truft to their fidelity.
to Carteia.
Cordova.
33. The battle being over, and the lines about Munda Cæfar
compleated, CASAR marched towards Cordova, where marches to
part of the enemy's forces that eſcaped the flaughter, had
poffeffed themſelves of a bridge. Upon our arrival there,
they laughed at us, when they faw how inconfiderable our
number was, demanding, whither we defigned to fly as
if we had been the army defeated. Thus they began to
oppoſe our paſſage; but CÆSAR having croffed the river,
encamped on the other fide. SCAPULA, who had levied the Scapula's
freedmen and feditious, eſcaping to Cordova, called his death.
followers about him; and caufing a funeral pile to be erect-
ed, adorned it with his richeſt garments; he then ordered a
fumptuous fupper to be prepared: which being ended in
good time, he diftributed what money he had amongft his
attendants and having plenty of frankincenſe and ſpike-
nard with him, * afcended the pile, commanding a freed-
man, his catamite, to diſpatch him, and another to put
fire to the ftack.
town,
35. In the mean time aroſe fo loud a contention amongſt A diffen-
the befieged, whilft fome were for POMPEY, others for tion in the
CÆSAR, that the noife was heard even in our camp. Some
of the forces in garrifon confifted of vagabonds, and the
townfmen's
1
426
C. J. CESAR'S
bitants de-
SPANISH townfmen's flaves, whom POMPEY had enfranchifed; who
WA R. immediately on CÆSAR's arrival, * were for furrendering;.
but the thirteenth legion made a vigorous defence; * and
part of their turrets being beaten down, they ftill afcended
The inha- the walls. At length the inhabitants fent to defire CÆSAR
would grant them a party for the defence of the town;
whereupon the garrifon began to fet fire to their houſes,
but were beaten by our men, and twelve thouſand of them
killed upon the ſpot, not computing thofe that fell without
Cæfar gains the walls. Thus CESAR rendered himſelf mafter of Cor-
mand a
guard of
Cæfar.
the town.
Cæfar
marches to
which fur-
Seville;
renders.
dova; and whilft he was employed here, the befieged at
Munda made a vigorous fally, but were repulfed into the
town again with confiderable lofs.
35. CÆSAR marched next towards Seville; but depu-
ties met him upon the road, and humbly befought he would
fpare the town; which he condefcended to, and fent lieu-
tenant CANINIUS thither with a garrifon. POMPEY'S
forces within the town, taking it ill that CÆSAR's ſhould
be admitted, privately diſpatched one PHILO, a ſtanch
afferter of his party's intereft, to Portugal, where he was
well known, to obtain affiftance from CECILIUS NIGER,
furnamed the Barbarous, who lay encamped there, near
The town Lenium, with a confiderable number of the natives. Be-
recovered by ing privately received into the town at his return, he
put the centinels and garrifon to the fword, and ſhutting
the gates began to defend the place.
a plot.
Carteia
ties to ac-
they had
feized Cn.
Pompey.
*
36. In the mean time arrived deputies from Carteia,
fends depu- who, to atone for having denied entrance to CÆSAR, now
quaint Cæfar brought him word they had fecured POMPEY. The Por-
tugueſe, all that while, obftinately held out; which ca-
SAR obferving, left deſpair might make them fet fire to
the city, and demolish the walls, if befieged too cloſely,
held a council that night, wherein it, was refolved, the gar-
riſon ſhould have an opportunity of making an eruption:
Cefar re- accordingly the Portuguefe, not thinking it was a liberty
gains Seville. defign'd them, having forced their way to the river Bætis,
put fire to our fhips that rode at anchor there, and whilſt
we were employed in extinguifhing the flame, made their
efcape; but were afterwards purfued by our cavalry and
cut to pieces. Thus CESAR having recovered Seville,
marched towards Afta; which fent embaladors to meet
him, and deliver the keys of their town. Whilſt theſe
affairs were tranfacting, Munda having long been cloſely
befieged, feveral who had eſcaped thither out of the battle,
deferted to us, and were diftributed amongst our troops;
Afta fur-
renders.
.but
COMMENTARIES.
427
The confpi-
but before they came over, the befieged and they had a- SPANISH
greed upon a certain fignal to be given in the night, when WAR.
they within the walls were to make a vigorous fally, whilft
the deferters did what execution they could in the camp. racy of
The plot, being diſcovered, the next night about twelve Pompey's
o'clock, the foldiers were ordered to caft lots for their party at
lives, and all the officers were put to death without the
rampier.
CHAP. VI.
*
Munda de-
tected.
A fedition
at Carteia :
and narrow-
ly eſcapes :
37. CÆSAR took in all the towns as he march'd a-
long, which now deferted POMPEY, who was employed Pompey is
at this time in quieting an infurrection at Carteia; for only wounded,
part of the town confented to the fending of deputies to
CÆSAR, one half ſtill remained in POMPEY's intereft. Is purfued
After a warm diſpute he made * himſelf maſter of the gate, by Didius,
and having received fome wounds, fecured his retreat to and killed.
his thirty gallies, fo eſcaped. But DIDIUS, who com-
manded a fquadron of CASAR's fhips at Cadiz, on notice
of POMPEY'S flight, immediately put out to fea after
him; having firft ordered feveral horfe and foot to embark,
in caſe there ſhould be occafion to purſue by land. He chafed
him four days before he came up with him, when the enemy,
who hoifted fail without neceffary provifions, found them- Pompey
felves obliged to put into land for freſh water: in the mean lands; his
time DIDIUS arriving, burnt feveral of their fhips, and took hips taken
the reſt.
and burned.
He is pur-
38. POMPEY thus reduced, fled for fhelter to a place
fortified by nature; but our horfe and infantry, who were fued.
put on board for that particular ſervice, having fent their
ſcouts before, purſued day and night without intermiſſion.
POMPEY had been dangerously wounded at Carteia in
his ſhoulder and left leg; befides, he had put his ankle out
of joint, which prevented his making ſpeedy journies;
being forced to be carried in a litter. However, the
better to diſguiſe himſelf, he had put on the habit of a Por-
tugueſe foldier; but being found out by CAESAR's party,
they quickly furrounded the * place where he was, with
their foot and cavalry. The poft was difficult of acceſs,
for the moment he perceived himſelf diſcovered, he gained
an eminence, which a few foldiers were able to defend
againſt a more confiderable number. Thus our men were
repulfed by their darts, and eagerly purſued by the enemy
when they endeavoured to retreat. * DIDIUS perceiving
his
428
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH his party had frequently attempted the hill to no purpoſe,
WAR. refolved to draw a line about the place, that he might en-
counter them upon equal terms: * he had already begun
#
killed in a
head fent to
Cæfar.
his works, when they, perceiving his defign, betook them-
felves to flight.
Cn. Pompey 39. POMPEY, as we have already obferved, being lame.
and wounded, was not able to keep pace with the reſt,
cave, his the deſcent being fo fteep, that he could not be ſafely car-
ried down by horfe or litter. Our forces having driven
the enemy from the upper ground, dealt deftruction on
every fide: CN. POMPEY, defcending into the valley, hid
himſelf in a cave, where he could not eafily be diſcovered;
but being betrayed by the prifoners, our foldiers put hina
to the fword. His head was preſented to CÆSAR on the
twelfth of April, as he marched to Seville, and there ex-
poſed to the view of the people.
Didius's
encounter
f
40. DIDIUS being proud of this fuccefs, retreated to a
with the neighbouring caftle, caufing fome of his veffels to be hauled
Portugueſe; on fhore to be refitted. In the mean time the Portu-
his death. guefe, who had eſcaped from the battle of Munda, rally-
ing in a confiderable body, marched againſt him. * Omit-
ting nothing for the prefervation of his fleet, he fometimes
found himſelf obliged to fally from his caftle, to put a ſtop
to the enemy's excurfions. This occafioned daily fkır-
miſhes between them; but at laft the Portugueſe, di-
viding their forces into three parts, ordered one to put
fire to the fhips, * another to receive our charge, and
The ambuf-diſpoſed the third in ambuſcade. When DIDIUS marched
out with his forces to engage them, immediately on a fignal
given, the gallies were fet on fire, and whilft our men
purſued the enemy, they were attacked from behind. Here
DIDIUS behaved himſelf with fignal bravery, and was at-
tended by the greateſt part of his followers to the other
world. Some few that had the good fortune to eſcape
the flaughter, leaped into the boats that lay neareſt the
fhore, whilst others made to the gallies by fwimming,
and weighing anchor, immediately put out to fea; which
preferved their lives, but the Portugueſe got all their
baggage.
cade.
Which does not well agree with APPIAN'), account, who fays CESAR
caufed his head to be buried.
CHAP.
COMMENTARIES.
429
F
CHAP. VII.
WAR.
Maximus
takes Mun.
41. DURING theſe tranſactions, CESAR returned SPANISH
from Cadiz to Seville. In the mean while FABIUS MAX-
IMUS, whom he had left to carry on the fiege of Mun-
da, having cloſely blocked up the town, had frequent
fkirmiſhes with the garrifon; * who at laſt attempting to
force their way through our fortifications, many of them
loft their lives, and the reft were taken prifoners. Our Fabius
men laid hold of this occafion, to render themſelves maſters
of the town; from whence they marched directly to Of-da:
funa. This place was equally fortified by art and nature, Thence
and befides the advantage of its fituation, no water except
that within the wall, was to be had at less than eight miles
diſtance: nor were materials to be met with for build-
ing turrets nearer than fix miles off; for % POMPEY, to
render the place more fecure, had taken care to fell all
the timber round the country; which obliged our men to
fupply themſelves with neceflaries of that kind from
Munda.
+
marches to
Olluna,
42. Such was the fituation of affairs at Munda and Of Cæfar at
funa, when CESAR, the day after his arrival at Seville, af. Seville.
ſembling the inhabitants, made an oration to this effect:
"When firft I entered on the office of quæftor, yours His fpeech.
was the province that determined my choice; which I
obliged with all the friendly fervices in my power. When
I was chofen prætor, I prevailed with the fenate to remit
the tribute MARCELLUS had impofed upon you, under-
took your protection, promoted feveral laws for your ad-
vantage, and publickly afferted as well the intereft of your
country in general, as all its natives in particular; which
created me many enemies: nor did I forget to continue the
fame favours, after my election to the confulate. But you,
ungratefully forgetting all theſe benefits, have twice car-
ried on a war against me and the commonwealth: nay,
though you were well acquainted with the Roman cuſtoms,
have, like Barbarians, violated the law of nations, by twice
affaffinating the facred perfon of a magiftrate, and at-
tempting to murder CASSIUS in the publick market-place,
even at noon-day. So rebellious have you always been,
that the republick is continually forced to be at the expence
of keeping an army on foot in your country, to keep you
in obedience; whilft you mifconftrue good turns for bad,
8 The younger brother, who, as I fuppofe, was in the town,
ill
430
C. J. CÆSAR'S
SPANISH ill offices for good: thus you have neither given proofs of a
WAR. quiet temper in peace, nor conftancy in war. CNEIUS
POMPEY though a youth, a private gentleman, found re-
ception amongſt you, and here ufurped imperial dignity.
After the defeat of his party in Africk, here he raiſed re-
cruits againſt the commonwealth, and at your own defire
laid your province wafte. But fuppofe you had defeated
me, what could that have availed you, whilft the Roman
people had ftill ten legions left, who are not only able to
fubdue farther Spain, but all the earth befide? Quorum laudi-
bus & virtute.”
Defunt reliqua.
INDEX
INDEX of the Names of Places.
N. B. The Numerals refer to Book, the Figures to Sections.
G. ftands for War in Gaul; C. for Civil Wars; Al. for
Alexandrian; Af. for African; Sp. for Spaniſh War.
A
A
BRUZZO, Marufini.
Acarnania, a country of
Epirus, Carnia, C.iii.
55, 58, 78.
Achaia, in Peloponnefus, Duchy
of Clarence.
Acilla or Acholla, a city of Afri-
ca. Afr. 33.
Adduafdubis, fee Dubis.
Addrumetum, a town in Africa,
Toulba or Mahometta, C. ii. 23.
Afr. 3, 33, 63.
Aduatici, fee Atuatici.
Edui, people of Gaul, the Au-
tunois, G. i. 9 viii. 46.
Ægimurus, an Ifle in the African
fea, Galetta. Afr. 44.
Æginium, a town of Theffaly,
C. iii. 79.
Ægyptus, Egypt.
Etolia, a country of Greece, Ar-
tinia; al. il Defpotato, C. iii.
·34, 35.
Agar, a town in Africa; unknown,
Afr. 67. 77. 79.
Agen, Nitiobriges; al. Garites.
Agendicum, a city of the Senones,
Sens. G. vi. 43. vii. 10, 62.
Alba, a town of Latium in Italy,
Albano, C. i. 15. 25.
Albanefi, Piruſtæ.
Albici, people of Gaul, unknown.
Alba, by fome the capital of the
Helvii, or Vivarois; p. in the
mountains round Marfeilles, C.
i. 34. ii. 2.
Alberton, Parætonium.
Alcala del Rio, Italica.
Alefia, or Alexia, Alife, a town
of the Mandubii, G. vii. 66.
68.
Aleffio, Liffus.
Algeziva, Carteia.
Alexandria in Egypt, Scanderia,
C. iii. 103.
Allier, r. Elaver.
Allobroges, Savoyards, G. i. 6.
vii. 64, &c.
trans Rhenum
Alpes, Alps mountains.
Amagetobria, a city of Gaul,
Bag ftat; unknown, G. i. 32.
Amantia, a town in Macedonia,
Porto Ragufto, C. iii. 12. 49.
Amanus, a mountain of Syria,
M. di Scanderona.
Ambarri, p. of Charolais; un-
certain, G. i. 11.
Ambialites, or, as it fhould be,
Ambiani, p. of Gaul, of Lam-
balla in Bretagne; al. Lendoul,
G. iii. 9.
Ambianum, a city of Belgium,
Amiens, G. ii. 4. 15. vii. 75.
Ambibari, p. of Ambie in Nor-
mandy, G. vii. 75.
Ambivariti, p. of Brabant; al.
Nevers; uncertain, G. iv. 9.
vii. 75.
Ambracia, a city of Epirus, Arta,
C. iii. 36.
Ambrun, Caturiges.
Amiens, Samarobriva.
Amphilochi, p. of Epirus, Anfi
loca, C. iii. 55-
Amphipolis, a city of Macedonia,
Chriflopoli or Emboli, C. iii.
Anartes,
102.
Index to the Names of Places.
$
*
Anartes, p. of Germany, Wala-
chians, Servians, or Bulgarians;
uncertain.
Anas, r. of Spain, Guadiana or
Rio Roydera, C. i. 38.
Ancalites, p. of the hundred of
Henley in Oxfordshire, G. v. zo.
Ancona, in Italy, Ancona, C. i.
II. 29.
Andes, p. of Gaul, the Duchy of
Anjou, G. ii. 35. iii. 7. vii. 4.
Antiochia in Syria, Antachia, C.
iii. 102.
Antuates, fee Nantuates, G. viii.
46.
Apollonia, a city of Macedonia,
Piergo, C. iii, 11. 25. 75.
Aponiana, ifle near the prom. of
Lilybæum in Sicily, Afr. 2.
Apfus, r. of Macedonia, Afpro;
al. Ureo; al. Spernaza, C. iii.
13. 19. 30.
Apulia, a country in Italy, Pug-
lia, C. i. 14. iii. 87.
Aquilaria, a town of Africa near
Clupea, C. ii. 23.
Aquileia, a city of Italy, Aquilegia.
Aquitania, a country of Gaul, Gui-
enne, or Gascoigne, G. iii. 9.
20. viii. 46. C. i. 39.
Arar, r. of Gaul, the Saone, or
Sône, G. i. 13. vii. 90. viii. 4.
Arduenna, foreft of Ardenne, G.
vi. 29.
Arecomici, fee Volcæ."
Arelate, city of Gaul, Arles, C. i.
36. ii. 4.
Ariminum, city of Italy, Rimini,
C. i. II.
Armenna, Medobrega.
Armenia minor, a country of A-
fia, Aladuli, Al. 35.
Arminacha, Comana.
Armoricæ civitates, Bretagne, or
Normandy, G. v. 53. viii. 31.
Arras, Nemetocenna.
Arretium, city of Hetruria in Ita-
ly, Arezo, C. i. 11.
Arverni, p. of Gaul, the country
of Auvergne, G. i. 31. vii. 3.
64. viii. 46.
Afculum, a town of Italy, Afcoli,
C. i. 15.
1
Afculum, a fea-port town of Mau-
ritania, Afr. 23.
Afperagium, a town in Macedo-
nia, C. iii. 30. 41. 76.
Aſpavia, a town in Hifpania Baæ-
tica, Espejo.
Afta, in the fame part of Spain,
Maja de Alta, al. Xeres de la
Fontera.
Ategua, a town in Hifpania Вæ-
tica, Tebala Veja, Sp. 7. 13.
22.
Atrebates, p. of Gaul, the country
of Artois, or Arras, G. ii. 16.
23. iii. 9. viii. 7.
Atuatici, p. of Liege; al. the
county of Namur; al. Boifleduc ;
al. Doway, G. v. 27. ii. 4.
Atuatuca turris, Tongren in the
midſt of Liege, G. vi. 32.
Avaricum, in Aquitain, Bourges,
G. vii. 13. 15.
Aulerci Brannovices, p. of Gaul,
la Morienne, G. vii. 75.
Aulerci Cenomanni, p. of Gaul,
the country of Maine, G. vii. 75.
Aulerci Diablintes, p. of Gaul,
le Perche, G. iii. 9.
Aulerci Eburovices, p. of Gaul,
the country of Evreux in Nor-
mandy, G. ii. 34. iii. 17. vii.
58. viii. 7.
Aufci, p. of Gaul, Auchs or Aux
in Gascogne, G. iii 27.
Aufetani, p. of Spain under the
Pyrenæan mountains, C. i. 60.
Auxerre, Vellaudunum.
Auximum, a town in Italy, Ofi-
mo or Ofmo, C. i. 1 2.
Axona, r. of Belgic Gaul, Aifne,
G. ii 5. 9.
Ayton, Calydon.
B
Bacenis, a wood parting Suabia
and the Cherufci, Thuringer-
Walds; al. der Hartz Waldt,
G. vi. 10.
Bætis, river Guadalquivir in Spain,
Al. 59-
Bæturia, fce Bethuria.
Bagrada, river near Utica in A-
frica, C. ii. 24. 38.
Bag Radt,
Index of the Names of Places.
Bag ftadt, Amagetrobia.
Baleares infulæ, Majorca and Mi-
norca, Afr. 23.
Barbary, Mauritania.
Bafle or Bafil, Rauraci.
Batavorum infula, part of Gel-
derland, Betuwe, Holland, G.
iv. 10.
Bavaria, Bavier, - Noreia.
Bazadois, Cocofates.
Beauvois, Cæfaromagus.
Belbais, Pelufium.
Belge, the Low Countries, G. ii. 4.
Belgium, G. v. 24. viii. 9. 46.
Bellocaffi or Velocaffes, the coun-
try of Bayeus in Normandy; al.
le Vexin, G. ii. 4. vii. 75. viii.
7.
Belvedere, Elis.
Bellovaci, people of Gaul, Beau-
vois, G. ii. 4. 10. 13. 15. vii.
59. 75. viii. 6.
Bejançon, Vefontio.
Beffi, people of Thrace, C.iii. 4.
Bethuria in Hifp. Lufitanica, Eftre-
madura.
Betones, or Berones, people of
Hifp. Tarraconenfis, Birones.
Bibracte, Bevray of Autun; al.
Beurɛ&t; al. Beaulne, G. i. 23.
vii. 55.90. viii. 2.
Bibrax, a town of Rheims, Braine
or Brefne; al. Bray, G. ii. 6.
Bibroci, p. of the hundred of Bray
in Berkshire, G. v. 21.
Bigerriones, Bigorre in Gafcogny,
G. iii. 24.
Biferte, Utica.
Bithynia, a country in Aſia.
Bituriges, the Duchy of Berry,
G. I. 17. vii. 8. 75. viii. 3.
i.
Bochir, Canopus.
Boii, p. of Bourbonne, G. vii. 9,
10.
Boulogne, portus Itius.
where fee Voffius. Armorica ci-
vitates.
Bratufpantium, Beauvais, G. ii.
13. vii. 63.
Britannia, G. ii. 14. v. 12.
Bruges, Grudii.
Brundifium in Italy, Brindifi, C.i:
24. iii. 2.
Brutii, p. of Italy, Calabri, C. i.
30.
Bullis, a town in Macedonia,
C iii. 12. 40.
Burfavolenfes, p. of Hifp. Bætica,
thought to be the fame with
Urfaonenfes, Sp. 22.
Buthrotum, a city of Epirus, Bu-
trinto or Botronto, C. iii. 16.
C
Cabillonum, a city of Gaul, Chai
lons, G. vii. 42.90.
Cadetes, p. of Gaul; unknown, G.
vii. 75.
Cadurci, p. of Quercy, G. vii. 4,
5.64.75.
Cadiz, Gades.
Careli, p. of Belgium, Namur;
uncertain, G. ii. 4.
Cæfaromagus, or Bratufpantium,
Beauvais, G. ii. 1 3.
Calagurritani, p. of Hifp. Tar-
racon. Calahorre, C. i. 60.
Calais, Portus Itius, as fome.
Caletes, p. of Caulx in Norman-
dy, G. ii. 4. viii. 7.
Calydon, a city in Ætolia, Ayton,
Ć. iii. 35.
Camerinum, a city of Umbria in
Italy, Camerino, C. i. 15.
Campania, Campain, C. i. 14.
Candavia, a country of Macedo-
nia, Canovia, C. iii. 11. 79.
Canofa, Canulium.
Canopus, a city of Egypt, Ba-
chir, Al. iii. 25.
Bosphorus, near the Black Sea, Cantabri, p. of Hifp. Tarracon.
Al. 78.
Bourges, Avaricum.
Brabant, Ambivariti.
Brannovices, fee Aulerci.
Bretagne, Lexovii, G. ii. 34.
1
Bifcay, C. i. 38.
Cantium, in England, Kent, G.
V. 12.
Canufium, a city of Apulia in I-
taly, Canofa, C. i. 24.
Ff
Cappado-
Index of the Names of Places.
Cappadocia, a country of Afia,
Capoa,
Al. 35. C. i. 10. 14.
Capua, a city of Italy,
Ĉi. 10. 14. iii. 22. 71.
Caralitani, p. of Cagliari, C. i.
30.
Carales, a city of Sardinia, Cag-
liari, Afr. 98.
Carcafo, a city of Gaul, Carcaf-
fone.
Carmona, a town of Hifp. Bæ-
tica, Carmone, C. ii. 19. Al.
57.
Carnutes, p. of Gaul, Chartrain
or Chartres, G. ii. 35. v. 25.
29. vi. 2. 44. vii. 2. 11. 75.
viii. 3. 31.
Carrucca, a town in Spain; un-
certain, Sp. 27.
Carteia, a town in Spain, Alge-
ziva; al. Tariffa, Sp. 32. 36,
37.
Cafilinum, a town in Italy, Ca-
felluzzo, C. iii. 22.
Cafli, p. of Cafbow hundred in
Hertfordshire, G. v. 21.
Caftulonenfis Saltus, a city of Hifp.
Tarracon. Caftona la Vieja, C. i.
38.
Caftra Pofthumiana, a town in
Hifp.Betica, Caftro el Rio, Sp.8.
Catuaci, p. of Gaul, Douay, cor-
rupted probably from Atuatici.
Caturiges, p. of Gaul, the coun-
try of Embrun or Ambrun; al.
Charges, G. i. 10.
Cebenna, fee Gebenna.
Celtæ, p. of Gaul.
Celtiberia, a country of Spain,
C. i. 38. 61.
Cenimagni, or Iceni, p. of Suf-
folk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire,
and Huntingdonshire, G. v. 21.
Cenomanni, fee Aulerci.
Centrones, p. of Gaul, the coun-
try of Tarantaiſe, G i. 10.
Centrones, dependent on the Ner-
vii, p. of Belgium, Courtray;
al. de S. Truyen, p. about Ghent,
G. v. 39.
Cerauni, m. of Epirus, Monti di
Chimera, C. iii. 6.
Cervennes, m. Gebenna.
Cercina, ifle of Africa, Chercara,
Cercare. Afr. 34.
Chartrain, Eburones.
Charolais, Ambarri.
Chafteau Landen, Vellaunodunum,
G. vii. 11.
Cherronefus Peninf. of Africa, near
Alexandria, Al. 10.
Cherufci, p. of Germany, Lu-
nenbergh, al. Mansfelders, G.
vi. 10.
•
•
Chiorne, Nicopolis.
Cilicia, a country of Afia minor,
Caramania, C. iii, 102. Al. 66.
Cimbri, p. of Germany, Jut-
land.
Cinga, r. of Spain, Cinca or Sen-
ga, C. 48.
Cingulum, a town of Picenum in
Italy, Cingoli, C. i. 15.
Cirta, a town in Africa, Conftan-
tina, or Confantina; al Tadel,
Afr. 25.
S. Claud, part of Mons Jura.
Cleremont, Gergovia.
Clupea, a city of Africa by the
fea, Quipia, C. ii. 23. Afr. 3.
Cocolates, p. of Gaul, unknown;
Bazadois. G. iii. 27.
Cologn, Ubii, al. Condrufi.
Comana Pontica, Com or Tabach-
zan.
Comana of Cappadocia, Armina-
cha, Al. 34, 35, 66.
Compfa, city of Italy, Conza or
Confa, C. iii. 22.
Condrufi or Condrufones, p. of
Belgium, Condrotz; al. Cologn,
G. ii. 4. iv. 6. vi. 32.
Confluens Mofæ & Rheni, Co-
blentz. G. iv. 15.
Conftance, Harudes.
Corcyra, ifle of Epirus, Corfu,
C. iii. 3. 7. 10. 57. 78.
Corbeil, Metiofedum.
Corduba, city of Hifp. Bætica, Cor-
dova, C. ii. 19, 20. Al. 49.
52. 58. Hifp. 3.
Corfinium in Ital, St. Pelino, al.
Pentina, C. i. 16. Cor-
Index of the Names of Places.
Corneliana caftra, city of Africa,
between Carthage and Utica
c. ii. 24, 37.
Cornuaille, Curioſolitæ.
Cofa, fee Compfa.
al. Liege, G. ii. 4. iv. 6. v. 28.
vi. 31. vii. 75.
Eburones, al. Treves, G. v. 29.
al. Chartain, G. v. 39.
Ebro, r. Iberus.
Cofanum, city of Calabria in I- Eburovices, ſee Aulerci.
taly, Caſſano, C. i. 34.
Courtray, Gorduni.
Coutances, Unelli, G. ii. 34. vii.
75. Nantuates, G. iv. 10.
Cretenfes, p. of Candia, C. iii. 4.
Curiofolitæ, p. of Gaul, Cor-
noüalle in Bretagne, G. iii. 7.
vii. 75:
al. Landreguet, G. iii, 11.
Cyclades, ifles in the Archipelago,
C. iii. 3.
Cyprus, ifle of Cipro, C. iii. 102.
D
Daci, Tranfylvanians, Moldavi-
ans, and Walachians, G.vi. 25.
Danubius, r. Donaw, G. vi. 25.
Dardani, p. of Myfia, Rafcia
and part of Servia, c. iii. 4.
Dauphine, Allobroges trans Rho-
danum, G. vii. 64.
Decetia, a town in Gaul, Decife
on the Loire, G. vii. 33.
Delphi, city of Achaia, Delpho,
al. Salona, C. iii. 55.
Il Defpotato, Etolia.
Delta, at the mouth of the Nile,
Al. 27.
Dobronicha, Epidaurus.
Douay, Atuatici.
Diablintes, p. of Gaul, le Perche,
al. Diableres in Bretagne; al.
Linter of Brabant ;. al. Lendoul,
over-againſt Britain, G. iii. 9.
Dubis, r. of Burgundy, Le Doux.
Duracium, a city of Gaul; but
Duracius in Cæfar the name of
a general, G. viii. 26.
Durocortum, city of Gaul, Rheims,
G. vi. 44.
Dujemois, Mandubii, G. vii. 68.
Dyrrachium, city of Macedonia,
Durazzo, Drazzi, C. i. 25.
ii. 5. 11. 41.
E
Elaver, r. of Gaul, Allier, G.
vii. 34. 53.
Elen, Nantuates.
Eleutheri, fee Cadurci, Sueffiones
& Rutheni.
Elis, city of Peloponnefus, Bel-
vedere.
Elufates, p. of Gaul, country of
Eufe.
Gafcoigne, G. iii. 27.
Emboli, Amphipolis.
England, Britannia.
Ephefus, in Afia minor, Ephefo,
Figena.
Epidaurus, a city of Dalmatia,
Ragufa, Dobronicha, Al. 44.
Epirus, a country of Greece, Chi-
mera and Larta, C. iii. 12.
42. 78.
Eftremadura, Vettones; Bethuria.
Espejo, Aſpavia.
Effui, p. of Gaul, Seez. but cor-
rupted probably from Edui,
G. v. 24.
Eureux, Aulerci Burovices.
Eufubii, corrupted from Unelli or
Lexovii, G. iii. 7.
Exilles, Ocelum.
F
Fanum, city of Umbria in Italy,
Fano, C. i. 11.
Farion, Pharus.
Farfa, Pharfalus.
Figena, Ephefus.
Frentani, p. of Italy, C. 1. 33.
Trentum, the Streights, i. e. of
Gibraltar, C. i. 29.
G
Gabali, p. of Gaul, Givaudon,
G. vii. 7. 64. 75.
Gades, Cadiz, C. ii. 18, 19.
Sp. 37.
Gaditani, p. of Cadiz, Getuli,
Afr. 55.
Eburones, p. of Belgium, Tongres; Gallia togata,. Gallia citerior,
Ff2
Lom-
Index of the Names of Places.
1
Lombardy, G. i. 10. 54.
Galetta, Egimurus.
Gallogræcia, country of Afia mi-
nor, Galatia, C. iii. 4.
Garites, p. of Gaul, country of
Gavre or Gavardon; al. Agan-
nois, G. iii. 27.
Garoceli or Graioceli, p. of Gaul,
of Mount Cenis; al. of Val de
Morienne; al. of Mount Genevre,
G. i. 10.
Garumna, r. of Gaul, Garonne,
G. i. I.
Garumni, p. of Gaul on that ri-
ver, G. iii. 27.
Gascoigne, Aquitania.
Gebenna, mountains of Cevennes,
G. vii. 8. 56,
Genabum, a town in Gaul, Or-
leans, G. vii. 3. viii. 5.
Geneva, G. vi. 6.
Genufus, r. of Macedonia, C. iii.
75.
Gergovia of the Boii and Averni,
two cities of Gaul, uncertain;
Cleremont, G. vii. 4. 34. 36.
38.
Germani, G. i. 36. 49. &c.
Getuli, p. of Africa, Afr. 25. 35.
Ghent, Centrones, G. v. 39.
Gianich Nicopolis.
Gomphi, a town in Theffaly,
Gonfi, C. iii. 80.
Gorduni, p. of Belgium, Garda-
venfes; al. Courtray; uncertain,
G. v. 39.
Graioceli, fee Garoceli.
Grudii, p. of Belgium, Bruges;
al. Louvain, G. v. 38.
Guadajos, r. Salfum.
Guadalquivir, Bætis.
Guadiana, r. Anas.
Gubio, Iguvium.
Guienne, Aquitania.
Gueldres, Menapii.
H
Haliacmon, r. of Macedonia, C.
iii. 36.
Hainault, Nervii, G. ii. 4. 15.
Harudes, p. of Germany; of
Conftance, unknown, G. i. 31.
51.
Helvetii, Swiss, i. 1.
Helvi, p. of Gaul, Vivarois,
G. vii 7. 64. 75. C. i. 36.
Henley in Oxfordſhire, Ancalites.
Heraclea Sentica, a town in Ma-
cedonia, C. iii. 79.
Hercynia Silva, Hartzor, the
Black Foreft in Germany, G.
vi. 24.
Herminius, mountain of Lufitania,
Monte Armino; al. Monte della
Strella, Al. 48.
Heffe, Ufipetes.
Hibernia, Ireland, G. vi. 13.
Hippo, city of Africa, Bona,
Afr. 96.
Hifpalis, city of Hifp. Bætica,
Seville, C. ii. 18, 19. A. 56.
Sp. 27.
Hifpania, Spain, the nearer and
farther, C. i. 38. note.
Hollanders, Batavi.
Holbot, Segontiaci.
Huefca, Olca.
I
Jacetani, al. Lacetani, p. of Ja-
ca, C. i. 60.
Jadertini, or Hiadertini, Jadera,
a city of Illyricum, Zara, Al.
42.
Iberus, r. of Hifp. Tarracon. Ebro,
C. i.61.65.
Iccius, or Itius portus, Viffent, or
Witfant; al. Calais; al. Bou-
logne, G. v. 2.
Igilium, il Giglio, l'Ifle du Lys, in
the Tuſcan fea, C. i. 34.
Iguvium, city of Umbria in Italy,
Gubio, C. i. 12.
Ilerda, city of Hifp. Tarracon.
Lerida, C. i. 38. 43. 63.
Ilurgavonenfes, p. of Spain near
the Ebro, C. i. 60.
Illyricum, Sclavonia, G. iii. 7.
Al. 42.
Ilurgis, a town of Hifp. Bætica,
Illera, Al. 57.
Iffa, an ifle of the Adriatic fea
Liſſa
T
Index of the Names of Places:
Liffa, C. iii. 9. Al. 47.
Italica, a city of Hifp. Bætica,
Sevila la Veja; al. Alcala del
Rio, C. ii. 20. Al. 52.
Ituræa, a country of Palestine,
Afr. 20.
Jura, m. of St. Claud, G. i. 2.
Jutlanders, Cimbri.
Kent, Cantium.
K
L
Labourd, Tarbelli.
Lacetani, p. of Spain, near the
Pyrenæan Hills, C. i. 60.
Landreguet, Curiofolitæ, G. iii. 11.
Ofifmii, G. ii. 34. iii. 9. vii.75.
'Languedoc, Volcæ.
Larinates, Larinum, a city of Italy,
Larino, C.i. 23.
Lariffa, a city of Theffaly, La-
rizza, C. iii. 80. 97.
Latobriges, or Latobrigi, un-
known, Laufane, G. i. 5. iii.
28.
Leifieux, Lexovii.
Lemanus lacus, Lake of Geneva,
G. i. 2.
Lemovices, p. of Gaul, Limofin,
G. vii. 4. viii. 46.
Lemovices Armorici, p. of St.
Paul de Leon, G. vii. 25.
Lendoul, Ambialites, or Ambiani.
Lenium, a town in Lufitania; un-
known, Sp. 35.
Lepanto, Naupa&tum.
Lepontii, p. of the Alps, near
Val Leventina, G. iv. to.
Leptis, a town in Africa, Lebeda,
or Lepeda, C. ii. 38. Afr. 29. 63.
Lerida, Ilerda.
Levaci, p. of Belgium; uncertain;
p. of the country of Waes in
Flanders, G. v. 39.
Leuci, p. of Belgic Gaul, Toulois,
G.i. 40.
Lexovii, p. of Gaul, Lifieux in
Normandy, G. iii. 17.29. vii.
75. p. of Bretagne, G. ii. 34.
See Voff.
Liburni, p. of Sclavonia,
Liege, p. of, Eburones: Atuatici.
Ligeris, r. Loire, G. iii. 9. vii. 5.
11.50. viii. 27.
Lilybæum prom. of Sicily, Capo
Coco; al. Capo Boeo, Afr. 37.
Limo, or Limonum, Poitiers, G.
viii. 26.
Lingones, p. of Gaul, Langres,
G. i. 26. iv. 10. vii. 9.
Liffus, a city of Macedonia, Alef
fio, C. iii. 26. 40. 78.
Lombardy, Gallia togata, or Gal-
lia citerior.
Lucani, p. of Italy, C. i, 30.
Lucubi, Ucubis.
Luceria, a city of Italy, Lucera,
C.i. 24.
Lunenbergh, Cherufci.
Lufitania, fouthern part of Porta-
gal, C. i. 38. Al 51.
Lutetia, Paris, G. vii. 57.
Luxemberg, Pæmani.
Lycia, Al. 14.
M
Macedonia, C. iii. 34. 36. 41. 57:
79.
Magetrobia, or Amagetrobia, a ci-
ty of Gaul; uncertain, G. i. 3
Majorca and Minorca, Baleares inf.
le Maine, Aulerci Cenomanni.
Malaca, a city of Hifp. Bæt. Ma-
laga, Al. 64.
·
Mahometta, Adrumetum.
Mandubii, p. of Gaul. See Alexia,
Auxois in Bourgogne; al. Duje-
mois, G. vii 68. 78.
Mansfelders, Cherufci.
Marcomanni,
P.
of Germany,
Marck; al. Bohemia; al. Mai-
bern, G. i. 51.
Marrucini, p. of Abruzzo in Ita-
ly, C. i. 23. ii. 34.
Marfi, p. of Italy, Ducato de
Marfi, C. i. 15. ii. 29.
Martigny, or Martenach, Oto-
durus.
Maffilia, a city of Gaul, Mar-
feille, C. i. 33 ii. 21.
Matifco, a city of Gaul, Mafcon,
G. vii. 90.
Ff 3
Ma
ĥ
Index of the Names of Places:
1
Matrona, r. Marne in Gaul.G. i.1.
Mauritania, Barbary, Al. 52. Afr.
23.
Mazaca, a city of Cappadocia,
Tifaria, Al. 66.
Mediomatrices, Metz in Lorrain,
G. iv. 10. 75
Medobrega, a city of Portugal,
Armenna, Al. 48.
Meldæ, p. of Meaux. But pro-
bably corrupted from Belgæ,
G. v. 5
Melodunum, in Gaul above Paris,
Melun, G. vii. 58.
Menapii, uncertain, p. on the fea-
coaft of Flanders: al. on the
fea-coaft of Brabant; al. Guel-
dres, G. ii. 4. iii. 9. vi. 5. 9. 33.
Mequinenza, Octogeſa.
Meffana, in Sicily, Meffina, C. ii.
3. iii. 101.
Metiofedum, on the Sein below
Paris, Corbeil; al. Meudon, G.
vii. 61.
Metropolis, a city of Theffaly, be-
tween Pharfalus and Gomphi,
C. iii. 81.
Middlesex, Trinobantes.
Mitylene, a city of Lefbos, Mete-
lin, C. iii. 102.
Mona, Man iſle in Cæfar, G. v.
13. in Ptolemy, Anglesey.
Morini, Terouenne in Artois, G.
ii. 4. iii. 9. 27. v. 24.
Morvedre, Saguntini.
Mofa, r. of Belgic Gaul, the Maes,
or Meuſe, G. iv. 10. vi. 33.
Munda, a city of Spain, Munda;
al. Ronda la Veja, Sp. 27.
N
Nabatai, p. of Arabia, Al. 1.
Namur, Atuatici, G. v. 27. Cæ-
refi, ii. 4.
Nannetes, p. of Gaul, Nantes,
G. iii. 9.
Nantuates, p. of Gaul, uncertain;
al. Coutances, G. iv. 10. al.
Elen, G. iii. 1. 6.
Narbo, a city of Gaul, Narbonne,
G.iii. 20. C. i. 36.
Naupactum, a city of Ætolia, Lo
panto, C.iii. 35.
Neapolis, Naples, in Italy, C. iii.
22.
Nearolis, a city of Africa, between
Clupea and Adrumetum, Afr.3.
Nemetes, p. of Germany, p. of
Spire, G. i. 51.
Nemetocenna, a town of Belgium,
uncertain; according to ſome
Arras, G. viii. 46.
Nervii, p. of Hainault, al. Tournay;
uncertain, G. ii. 15. v. 24. 38.
Nevers, Ambivariti, G. vii. 75.
Nicopolis in Armenia the lefs,
Gianich; a!. Chiorme, Al.36.40.
Nilus, the Nile, Al. 5.
Nitiobriges, p. of Gaul, Agenois,
G. vii. 7. 31. 46. 75.
Normandy, Armoricæ civitates.
Noricum, or Noreia, a city of
Germany, Nuremberg; al. cap.
of Bavier, G. i. 5. 53. C. i.
18.
Noviodunum Belgarum, Noyon,
G. ii. 12.
Noviodunum Biturigum, Neury,
or Neufvy, G. vii. 12.
Noviodunun Sueffionum, Soiſſons ;
al. Noion, G. ii.¸1 2.
Noviodunum Eduorum, Nevers,
G. vii. 55.
•
Numidæ, p. of Africa, Al. 51
Nymphæum, prom. of Macedo-
nia, in the confines of Sclavonia,
C. iii. 26.
O
Obucula, in Hifp. Bætica; uncer-
tain, Al. 57.
Ocelum, on the Alps in Gaul,
Exilles; al. Oulx.
Octodurus, in Switzerland, Mar-
tenach, Martigny, St. Maurice,
G. iii. 2.
Octogefa, in Hifp. Tarracon. Me-
quinenza, C. i. 61. 68.
Orchomenus, in Boeotia, Orco.
meno, C. iii. 55-
Orleans, Genabum.
Oricum, a town in Epirus, Orco
or Orcha, C. iii. 6. 11. 40.
Ofcentes, p. of Huefca, Hifpania
Tarracon. C. i. 60.
Ofifmii,
Index of the Names of Places.
Ofifmii, p. of Gaul, uncertain;
Landreguet, G. ii. 34. iii. 9.
vii. 75-
Oſmo, Auximum.
Offuna, Urfao.
P
Padus, r. Po, G. v. 24.
Pæmani, uncertain; al. p. of Pe-
mont, near the Black foreft; al.
Luxemburg, G. ii. 4.
Palæpharfalus, fee Pharfalus.
Palæfte, a town in Epirus, near
Oricum, C. iii. 6.
Parada, in Africa, not far from
Utica, Afr. 87.
Parætonium, near the fea in Afri-
ca, Alberton or Berton, Al. 8.
Parifii, Ile de France, G. vi. 3.
vii. 57.
Paris, Lutetia.
Parthi, p. of Afia, C. iii. 31.
Parthini, p. of Macedonia, C. iii.
11.41.
Peligni, p. of Italy in Apruzzo,
C. i. 15. ii. 29.
Pelufium, in Egypt, Belbais, C.
iii. 103. Al. 26.
Pentina, or St. Pelino, Corfinium.
Le Perche, Diablintes.
Pergamus, city of Myfia, Perga-
mo, C.iii. 11. Al. 78.
Petra, a town in Macedonia, C. iii.
42.
Petrogorii, a country in Gaul,
Perigord, G. vii. 75.
Pharfalus, a city of Theffaly, Far-
fa, C. iii. 6.
Pharus, formerly an ifle in Egypt,
Farion, C. iii. 112, 114.
Phoenices, C. iii. 101.
Picenum, a country of Italy, la
Marca d'Ancona; al. Pifcara,
C. i. 12.
Pictones, p. of Poitou, G. iii. 11.
vii. 4.75. viii. 26.
Piergo, Apollonia.
Piruftæ, p. of Sclavonia, Albanefi;
uncertain, G. v. I.
Pifaurum, a city of Umbria in
Italy, Pefaro, C. i. 11.
Placentia, in Italy, Piacenza,
C. iii. 711
Pleumofii, p. of Belgium, near
Tournay; uncertain, G. v. 39,
Poitiers, Limonum.
Pontus, in Afia, on the Black Sea,
Al. 14. 41.
Portugal, Lufitania.
Pofthumiana caftra, fee Caftra.
Preciani, p. of Gaul, Precins; un-
certain, G. iii. 27.
Provincia Romanorum, Provence,
G.i. 1, &c.
Ptolemais in Africa, St. Jean ♫
Acre, C. iii. 105.
Puglia, Apulia.
Puteoli, in Italy, Puzzuolo, C. iii.
71.
Pyrenæi montes, G. i. 1.
Q
Quercy, Cadurci.
Quipea, Clupea.
R
Ragusa, Epidaurus.
Ragufeo Porto, Amantia.
Ravenna in Italy, C i. 5.
Rauraci, p. of Bafil, or Bâle,G. i.5.
Rhedones, p. of Rennes in Bre-
tagne, G. ii. 34. vii.75.
Rheims, Durocortum.
Rhemi, p. of Gaul, Rheims, G. ii,
3. v. 24.
Rhenus, r. Rhine, G. iv. 10.
Rhodanus, r. Rhone, G. i.1, 2, &c.
Rimini, Arimini.
Rhodii, p. of Rhodes, C.iii. 5.
Al. 11. 15.
Roma, Rome, Al. 65.
Rufpina, on the fea-coaft of Africa,
Soufe; al. Mahadia, Afr. 20.
33.53.
Rutheni [Eleutheri] p. of Aqui-
tain, Celtic Gaul, afterwards of
Rouergue, le Rodais, G. i. 45.
vii. 5.90.
Rutheni provinciales, G. vii. 7.
S
Sabis, r. Sambre in Belgium, G. ii.
16.18.
Saguntini, p. of Hifp. Tarracon.
Morvedre, Sp. 9.
Salona, Delphi.
Ff4
Salona,
Index of the Names of Places.
?
Salona, a city of Dalmatia, Salo-
na; al. Spalatro, C. iii. 8, 9.
Al. 43.
Salfum, r. of Hifp. Bætica, Rio
Salado, or Guadajo., Sp. 7. 23.
Samarobriva, a district of Gallia
Belgica, Amiens, G. v. 24. 47.
Santones, p. of Gaul, Saintongue,
or Xantonge, G. iii. 1. vii. 75.
Saon, or Sone, Arar, G. i. 9. iii. 11.
Sardinia inf. Sardigna, C. i. 30.
Sarfara in Africa, unknown, Afr.
75.
Savoyards, Allobroges.
Sclavonia, Illyricum, Liburni.
Scanderona, m.Amanus, Scandria,
Alexandria.
Scaldis, r. of Belgium, l'Escaut,
Scheld, G. vi. 33.
Seduni, p. of Switzerland, Sion,
G. iii. I.
Sedufii, p. of Germany, un-
known, G. i. 51.
Seez, Effui.
Segni, p. of Belgium, unknown;
al. Zulpich, G. vi. 32.
Segontiaci, p. of Holbot in Ham-
fhire, G. v. 20.
Segovia, a city of Hifpania Bæti-
ca, Al. 57.
Segufiani, p. of Lyons and Foreft,
G. vii. 64. 75.
Senones, p. of Gaul, Sens, whofe
capital was Agendicum, G. ii.
2. v. 54, vi. 2. vii. 50. 57.
Sequana, r. Seyne in France, G. i.
many, unknown, G. iv. 16.18,
vi. 33.
Silicenfis, r. of Hifp. Bætica, Rio
de las Algamidas; al. corrupt-
ed from Singuli, Xenil, Al. 57.
Soiffons, Noviodunum Sueffionum.
Soricaria, a town of Spain, un-
known.
Soritia, a town of Spain; un-
known, Sp. 27.
Sotiates, or Sontiates, p. of Gaul,
Solz, the country about Aire,
G. iii. 20.
Spain, Hifpania.
Spires, Nemetes.
The Streights of Gibraltar, Fre-
tum, C. i. 29.
Strafburgh, Tribocci.
Stulingens, Tulingi.
Sueffones, Soifonnois in Gaul,G. ii.
3. 5. 12. 75. viii. 6.
Suevi, p. of Germany, Suabians,
G. i. 37. iv. 1. 17. vi. 10.
Sulcitani, p. of Sardinia, Afr. 98,
Sulmo, a city of Italy, Sulmona,
C. i. 18.
Savifs, Helvetii.
Syria, Al. 65, &c.
T
Trajectum, Al. 56.
Tadel, Cirta.
Tamefis, r. Thames, G. v. 11. 18.
Tarantaife, Centrones, G. i. 10.
Tarbelli, p. of Gaul, near the
Pyrenees, p. of Ays and Bayonne,
in the country of Labourd,
G. iii. 27.
Tariffa, Carteia.
1. vii. 57.
Sequani, p. of part of Franche-
comté, whofe capital Besançon,
G. i. 1. iv. 10.
Sefuvii, p. of Secz, uncertain;
Voffius reads Lexovii, G. ii.
34.
Seville, Hiípalis.
Sevila la Veja, Italica.
Sibutzates, country of Buch;
Sibultz, G. iii. 27.
Sicilia, ifle of Sicily, C. iii. 101.
Sicoris, r. Segre in Catalonia, C. i.
41.48.61.
Sigambri, or Sicambri, p. of Ger- Tectofages, fee Volca.
Tarracina, in Italy, G. i. 24.
Tarraconenfes, in Spain, Tarra
gone, C. i. 60. 73. 78. ii. 21.
Tarfus, in Cilicia, Tarfo, Al. 66.
Tarufates, p. of Gaul, le Teurfan;
uncertain, G. iii. 23. 27.
Tauris, ifle in the Adriatic fea,
unknown, Al. 45.
Taurois, caftle near Marfeilles,
C. ii. 4.
Tebala Veja, Ategua.
4
Tegea,
I
Index of the Names of Places.
Tegea, in Africa; unknown, Afr.
78.
Tenchteri, p. of Germany; un-
known, Zutphen, G. iv. 1. 4.
vi. 35.
Tergeftini, Trieste, in the confines
of Iftria, and the Carni, G. viii.
24.
Terouenne, Morini.
Teutoni, p. of Germany, Teutfch,
G. i. 33. 40. ii. 4. vii. 77.
Thabena, a city of Africa, Afr. 77.
Thapfus, on the fea-coaft of Africa,
Afr. 28. 45. 67, 79.
Thebe, Thebes, Tiba, or Stibes,
C. iii. 55.
Theffalia, a country of Macedo-
nia, C. iii. 34.
Thuri, or Turii, p. of Italy, Torre
Brodogneto, C. iii. 22.
Tigurinus pagus, p. of Avenches ;
al. Canton of Zurich, G.i. 12.
Tifaria, Mazaca.
Tildra, or Tifdrus, a city of
Africa, Cairoan, Al. 36. 76. 86.
Toulois, Leuci.
Tongre, Atuatica turris.
Tongres, Eburones.
Tolofa, Thoulouse, G. i. 10. iii.
21. vii. 7.
Tournay, Pleumofii; al. Nervii.
Toulba, Adrumetum.
Tralles, a city of Afia minor, in
Lydia, Chora, C. iii. 105.
Treves, Eburones.
Trajectum, the Streights of Gibral-
tar, Al. 56.
Treviri, Triers or Treves, G. iii.
11. iv, 10. vi. 8. 9. viii. 25.45.
Triboces, or Tribocci, p. of Al-
face in Germany; al. Straßburg,
G. i. 51. iv. 10. V. 2.
Trinobantes, p. of Middlefex,
G. v. 20, 21.
St. Truyen, p. of, Centrones.
Talingi, p. of, Germany, uncer-
tain; Stulingens, G. i. 5. 21.
23.
Turinus ager, Turene, C. iii. 22.
Turones, p. of Gaul, Tours, G. ii.
35. vii. 4. 75. viii, 46.
V
Vacca in Africa; unknown, Afr.
74.
Vangiones, p. of Germany,
Wormes, G.i. 51.
Varus, r. Var in Gaul, C. i. 86.
Ubii, p. of Cologn in Germany,
G.i. 54, &c. iv. 3. 16.
Ucubis, in Hifp. Bætica, Lucubi,
Sp. 7. 20. 27.
Velauni, p. of Velai, in Gaul,
G. vii. 75.
Vellaunodunum in Gaul, Aux-
erre; al. Chasteau Landon; al.
Villeneuve in Lorrain; al.
Veron, G. vii. 11.
Velocaffes, Vexen, fee Bellocaffes.
Veneti, Vannes, in Bretagne, G. ii.
34. iii. 7. iv. 21.
Ventifponte in Spain; unknown,
Sp. 27.
Veragri, country of Gavot; al.
Chablais; al. Falais, G. iii. 1.
Verbigenus or Urbigenus pagus,
p. of Switzerland, about Orba,
G. i. 27.
Veromandui, the Vermandois in
Gaul, G. ii. 4. 16.
Verfaorienfes, fee Urfaonenfes.
Vefontio, capital of the Se-
quani, Besançon, G. i. 38.
Vettones, p. of Spain, Eftrema-
dura, C. i. 38.
Vexen, Bellocaffi.
Vibo, near the ftraits of Sicily,
C. iii. 101.
Vhalis, r. Wahal, or Wael, part
of the Rhine, G. iv. 10.
Vienna, Vienne in Dauphine,
G. vii. 9.
Viffent, portus Iccius.
Vivarais, Helvii.
Ulla, or Ulia, in Hifp. Bætica,
Monte major; al. Vaena; al.
Vilia, Al. 61. Sp. 3.
Unelli, p. of Gaul; unknown, Cou-
tances, or Conftance, G. ii. 34.
iii. 11. 17. vii. 75.
Vocates, p. of Gaul, on the coaft
of Lapurdenfium; Buchs; un-
certain, G. iii. 23. 27.
Vocontii,
Index of the Names of Places.
Vocontii, p. of Die in Dauphiné,
and of Vaifon in the county of
Veniffe, G. i. 10.
Vogelus, m of Vauge, in Lorain;
al. de Faucilles, G. iv. 10.
Volca Arecomici, p. of Lower
Languedoc, G. vii. 7. 64. C. i.
35.
of Upper
Volca Tectofages, p.
Languedoc, G. vi. 24.
Urfao, in Hifp. Batica, Offuna,
Sp. 26. 28. 41.
Ufceta, in Africa, unknown.
Ufipetes, p of Germany, uncer-
tain; Heffe, G. iv. 1. 4. vi. 35.
Utica, à city of Africa, Biferte, C.
i. 31. ii. 23. 26. 38. Afr. 24.36.
Uxellodunum, a town in Gaul,
uncertain; by fome Ufeldun,
G. viii. 32. 40.
Uzita, a town of Africa, uncer
tain, Afr. 41, 42.
W
Waes in Flanders, Levaci.
Wormes, Vangiones.
Wael, r. Vhalis.
X
Xantones, fee Santones.
Zara, Jadertini.
Z
Zama, in Africa, Zamora, Afr. 91.
Zeila, Al. 72.
Zeta, on the fea-coaſt of Africa,
Zerbi, 68. 74.
Ziela, or Zela, a city of Pontus,
Al. 72.
Zulpich, Segni.
Zutphen, Ten&thteri.
Zurich, Tigurinus pagus,
INDEX,
INDE X.
A
CHILLAS, a captain.
under Ptolemy, fent to
kill Pompey Page 321
Made general of the Alexandrian
army, 323. His death
Africk, war there under Curio 258
Carried on by Cæfar
Afranius and Petreius, their for
ces
329
364
222
The former draws out his forces
to divert Cæfar from his
works, but to no purpoſe 224
Marches to attack Cæfar's re-
cruits
Alexandrian war
228
327
The manner of building in A-
lexandria
ibid.
Alexandrian forces fallying from
the town attack the Romans;
when Cæfar eſcapes by ſwim-
ming, but lofes 800 men in
the action
337
340, 2.
Totally defeated
Alife, defcription of its fituation1 62
Amiens furrenders
Ambiorix's fpeech to the Roman
deputies
36
His management of affairs
Goes to Namur and Hainault,
Decamp and return home 34
Befançon deſcribed
Bibulus's fleet reduced to great ex-
tremities
His death
19
278
280
Brienne, the fiege of it, raiſed by
the Romans
32
Britain, fee England
Bridge built by Cæfar cross the
7
Saone
cross the Rhine, an exact de-
ſcription of it
67
Brutus with the Roman fleet en-
gages the people of Marſeilles
230
C
ibid
283
Cælius's fedition; the mob rifes 282
He is expelled Rome, then joins
with Milo
He is killed
Cæfar takes poft for Gaul
Falls upon the Swiſs
His answer to their embaſſadors 7
Sends embaffadors to Ariovistus 17
Calls a council of war: his
ſpeech
Begins his march
46
20
90
21
93
His ſpeech to Arioviftus
His reply to Arioviſtus
22
2.4
29
moves the natives to rebel 95
Androfthechinus fhuts the gates of
Gomphos againſt Cæjar 310
Antony's fuccefs in attempting to
defend Brindifi
283
He and Kalenus weigh anchor,
and arrive fafe at Durazzo 284
Ariovistus's anſwer to Cæfar's em-
baffage
War with him
17
19
His answer to Cæfar's fpeech 23
He defires a fecond interview,
which Cæfar denies; then
puts the Roman plenipoten-
tiaries in irons
25
Comes to a battle with Cæfar 27
Ategua, the fiege of it 412
Autun laid waite by the Swifs 6
B
29
Belge enter into a confederacy
against the Romans
Endeavour to pals the Aiſne, but
are repulfed with great flaugh-
ter
33
है
His war with the Belgæ
Marches to Beauvais, which fub-
mits
35
His prodigious flaughter of the
Hainaultois
42
Builds a navy, and marches into
Gaul
49
Sends feveral parties to different
places in Gaul to cut off ail
fuccours from the enemy 50
Takes feveral towns
ibid.
Routs the Gauls, but they rally,
and fend to Spain for more
fuccours
56
His expedition to Teroüenne and
Guelders
58
His progreſs ſtopped by the great
59
rains
Marches to find out the Germans,
his answer to their embaffa-
dors
62
Attacks them in their camp and
routs them
65
Cajar
INDE
X.
Cafar croffes the Rhine and re-
turns to Gaul
67
His arrival at Brindifi,
blockade of the haven
and
214
His expeditions into England de-
fcribed
Befieges Marſeille
220
68
His expedition to Spain
221
Refits his navy
73
His speech to Afranius.
243
Comes to the affiftance of his fo-
Takes Oricum
277
ragers, whom the English had
fallen upon, and afterwards
returns to Gaul
Gives orders for building a navy
74
77
His preparations for a fecond ex-
pedition into England; but
first marches into the country
of Treves, to prevent a rebel-
lion
78
Marches to Boulogne, and invites
all the princes of Gaul to meet
him
So
81
Sets fail for England
Defcribes the country and cuf-
toms of the inhabitants 83
Fords the river Thames and puts
102
Caffivellaunus (captain general
of the English) to flight 86
Routs the Hainaultois
His fpeech on the defeat of Sa-
binus
ibid.
His fecond expedition into Ger-
III
many
Croffes the mountains of the Ce-
vennes in the midit of winter,
and arrives at Auvergne, which
ſubmits
132
134
Takes Neuvy, and marches from
Takes and facks Orleans
thence to Bourges
135
Marches to intercept the Autu-
nois
148
164
177
His works at Alife
Marches into Berry, and lays the
country wafte
Demands Gutervatus, who is de-
livered up and put to death 192
Marches to befiege Uffeldon 193
Cuts off the hands of the befieged
at Uffeldon
195
Marches to Corfinium and be-
fieges it
[Which in a ſhort time furren-
ders: he afterwards marches
through Abruzzo, and great
part of the kingdom of Na-
ples
210
213
Marches to Duazzo to cut off
Pompey's communication with
the place
292
Sends Canuleius into Epirus for
corn
ibid.
Befieges Pompey in his camp, his
293
reaſons for it
Enclofes Pompey's works within
his fortifications; a fkirmiſh
between them
294
His army reduced to great ftraits
for want of proviſions 295
Offers Pompey battle, which he
declines
298
Sends Clodius to Scipio, to treat
about a peace, whofe endea-
vours prove ineffectual 299
Joins Domitius, ftorms and takes
the town of Gomphos in Thef-
faly, in four hours time 310
Summons Ptolemy and Cleopatra
to attend him
323
Burns the Alexandrian fleet 325
Gets fafe with his transports to
Alexandria
332
Obtains a victory, takes two fhips
and finks three
334
Routs the Pharians, gains the i-
fland and the town, feveral tak-
en and killed, then fortifies the
cattle, gains the ſhore, ſtops
up an arch under the bridge,
and begins to throw up a ram-
pier
335
Marches to Ptolemy's camp and
defeats him
341
He marches to Alexandria, and
performs Ptolemy the father's
will
Befieges Thapfus
342
406
Cordova, and obliges
Pompey to quit Ulla 411
Defeats him in the plains of
Munda
424
Caninius arrives at Uffeldon 190
Carfulenus detached to ftorm the
highest part of the enemy's
camp,
INDE X.
camp, which he forces 342
Caffivellaunus made generaliffimo
of the Engliſh army
83
Caffius, governour of Spain, a
plot to affaffinate him, which
was put in execution at Cordo-
va; he is wounded as he lay
on the ground by Squillus 351
Upon his recovery he caufes all
the affaffins to be feized, puts fe-
veral to death, and compounds
with the rest for money
He is caft away in the mouth of
the Ebro
357
Cato of Utica, prætor of Sicily,
prepares for war; and abdi-
cates his province
218
Excites young Pompey to war 373
Kills himfelf, and is honourably
buried by the Uticans
353
405
416
120
Cato the Portugueſe
Cativulcus poifons himſelf
Chartres, a rebellion there 89
Cleopatra and her younger brother
conftituted king and queen of
Ægypt
342
Combat between Turpio and Ni-
ger
421
Convictolitanes perfuades Litavicus
and his brothers to rebel 147
Correus, with 6000 foot, and 1000
horfe, lies in ambuſh for the
Roman foragers, he attacks
the Roman cavalry with a
fmall party, is routed and kil-
led
184
Cotuatus, and Conetodunus, maf-
facre all the Roman merchants
at Orleans
129
55
Coutances, war there
53
Craſſus's expedition againſt the
people of Gafcoigne
He invefts the Gauls capital ibid..
Craftinus's character and courage
at the battle of Pharfalia; he
is killed there
311
D
Deiotarus defires afliftance from
Domitius againſt Pharnaces, he
fends ambaffadors to bid Phar-
naces quit Cappadocia and Ar-
menia
343
Didius's encounter with the Por-
429
tugueſe, his death,
Divitiacus entreats Cæfar to par-
IO
don his brother
Domitius writes to Pompey for af-
fiftance
210
288
Comes into Macedonia
His foragers rout Scipio's party
290
165
Drapes ftarves himſelf
Druids, an account of them 113
Dumnacus befieges Duracius in
188
9
Poitiers
Dumnorix's character
He períuades the noblemen of
Gaul not to go with Cæfar into
Britain. He deferts, and is kil
led for his obftinacy
E
80
Egyptians defign to intercept
Cafar's convoys
Elephants, the way of exercifing
them
339
370
323
83
69
70
72
Egypt, war there
England, defcription of it
English fend ambaffadors to Ce-
far in Gaul
Their war with Cæfar
They beat the Romans back the
first time, but at last are
forced to fend ambaffaders
to Cæfar to deſire a peace,
which they obtain on deli-
very of hoftages
They break the peace with Ca-
far, upon hearing he was forc-
ed back by a florm, and fet
upon the Roman foragers 73
The manner of their fighting in
chariots; they fall upon the
Roman camp, and are routed
a fecond time, and petition
again for peace; which Cæfar
grants them
74
They attack the Romans on
their march, but are repulfed;
and rallying, are repulfed
again
84
They attack the Roman foragers,
but are routed, with confider-
able lofs
85
They are forced to retire to the
woods, after being a third
time routed
86
English
INDE X.
them
English furrender to Cafar, who
impofed a yearly tribute on
87
Eporedorix acquaints Cæfar with
Litavicus's defign 148
Euphranor's fpeech to Cafar 333
His death
F
339
Fabius (L.) killed and thrown
over a wall
Fabius Max. takes Munda
G
36
H
Hainaultois, their cuſtoms
They force the Roman camp 39
I
Indutiomarus's politick embaſſy 79
He fends to Germany for al-
fiftance, but is refuſed
104
He rebels, and calls a council of
war
153
Italy, war there
429
L
47
Galba and his Romans fally out of
their camp, put the enemy to
flight, and entirely defeat
them, and after that return to
Savoy
Ganymede made general; he en-
deavours to deprive the Ro-
mans of freſh water, brings
water from the fea to corrupt
Cafar's conduits
Gaſcoigne, war there
They endeavour to attack the
Romans, but are repulſed and
routed; their ambuſcade ibid.
Submit
329
55
58
I
Gaul how divided
Gauls attack Cæfar's camp 101
They attempt a general revolt
129
The manner of building their
walls
140
New commotions there 191
They impriſon the Roman com-
miffaries
48
Their preparations and alliances
50
Deſcription of their fhipping 51
Germans, their treachery, 24
Their manner of fighting 25
ibid.
209
Labienus defeats Indutiomarus; his
head cut off, and brought to
the Roman camp
Detached to the relief of An-
105
172
41
tiftius
Gains the enemy's camp, and
fends affiſtance to Cæfar
He marches against the Terou-
ennois, and lays their country
wafte
76
Lentulus the conful, his cowardice
209
Libo blockades Brindifi, his fuccefs
and vanity
283
91
Liege, a rebellion there
Lifcus's fpeech, in which he dif
covers the treachery of Dum-
norix
Litavicus made general of 10,000
9
147
foot, and his brothers fent be-
fore to Cæfar; his treafon and
diffimulation; he perfuades the
forces under his command to
rebel
Luterius marches with a convoy
towards Uffeldon, is inter-
cepted by Caninius, and moſt
of his cavalry killed and taken
191
M
Are routed, and Procilius re- Manutius Plancus kills a lictor
taken
Croſs the Rhine
War with Cæfar
28
351
59
61
Marcus Petreius, his death
Marfeille, people there, prepare
a confiderable fleet
Are defeated, and lofe nine fhips
154
230
231
246
283
They invade Guelders; the
temper of the people ibid.
Their embaffage to Cæfar 62
A fecond embaffage to Cæfar 63
After a truce made, they attack
the Roman cavalry 64
Their religion and cuſtoms 116
Greece, war there
174
Marſeille befieged
Milo killed
Mithridates arrives at Pelufium,
which he takes by ſtorm 339
Made king of Bofphorus 363
Mofe,
:
INDE X.
Moſe, deſcription of that river 63
Munda, battle on the plains there
The fiege of it
The taking of it
N
422
424
430
Nafidius arrives with a fleet to the
affiſtance of the people of Mar-
feilles
247
Noion befieged and taken 35
Nicomedes made prieſt of Bellona
358
O
Octavius comes to Illyricum 347
Orgetorix perfuades the Swifs to
invade Gaul
2
Is fent embaffador to the ftates
ibid.
He kills himſelf to avoid trial
P
3
Pharnaces invades the dominions
of Deiotarus
Over-runs Pontus; his barbarity
343
346
362
Defeated by Cæfar
Piruſtæ fubmit to Cæfar 78
Pifo, an account of the death of
him and his brother 64
Pompey's faction at Rome 202
His anſwer to Domitius's letter 2 1 1
His feet returns to Brindifi, be-
fore Cafar's works are com-
pleat, and blocks up all the
avenues
He marches to Durazzo
Defeated at Pharfalia
215
257
317
Pompey (junior) his exploits; en-
291
ters the haven of Oricum 290
Carries off four of Cæfar's gal-
lies, burns the reſt, and thirty
tranfports at Liffus
His works within Cafar's; he
builds twenty-four caſtles, in-
cludes fifteen miles within his
lines
263
He is much incommoded for
want of room and water 296
His preparations for a fally 301
He obtains the title of Imperator
305
He marches to Macedonia 309
He arrives in Theffaly, and joins
Scipio
310
Decamps, and marches towards
Seville
422
Is killed in a cave, and his head
fent to Cæfar
428
Ptolemy's young daughter goes
over to Achillas in hopes of be-
ing queen; they fall out, Po-
thinus killed
326
His diffimulation; he makes war
upon Cæfar
338
He fends his cavalry to oppofe
Cafar's paffing a branch of
341
the Nile
He gets on board, but the veſſel
is funk
R
342
63
Rhine, defcription of it
Romans entirely rout the English
72
They are driven back on the
English fhore by a violent
ibid.
ftorm
They land and rout the English
a fecond time, but their fleet
is fhattered with a violent
ftorm
They are attacked by the four
kings, whom they repulfe
with lofs
87
82
They fall on the rear of the Bel-
34
37
gx
Their battle with the Hainaul-
tois
Their experience in the art of
38
war
40
They give ground to the ene-
my, which Cæfar perceiving
fnatches a field, and places
himſelf in the front of the bat-
tle, to encourage them
They are affaulted in their
Camp
47
Their navy arrives, engages the
enemy's fleet, and takes and
finks almoſt all their ſhips, and
ends the war
52
They offer the Gauls battle, who
refuſe it, and then attack their
camp
57
The cavalry enter the. Decuman
port of it, and entirely rout
them
58
Tribunes fly to Cæfar in a cart,
dif-
INDE X.
!
diſguiſed like flaves 204
Rome, factions there againſt Ca-
far
198
The fenate decree Pompey and
Cæfar fhall each ſend a legion
to the Parthian wars
199
Rofcillus and Egus cheat their
countrymen the Savoyards of
their pay; they attempt the
murder of Volufenus; they
defert Pompey
S.
300
Sabinus's expedition to Coutances,
his ftratagem and fuccefs 53
Is defeated by Ambiorix
Salona befieged
Scapula's death
92
275
425
Scipio's avarice, and heavy im-
pofitions
287
He gives orders for plundering
the temple of Diana at E-
phefus
288
Marches towards Domitius, but
wheels about for Theffaly;
leaves his baggage at Haliac-
mon, with Favonius king of
Thrace; but on notice of his
coming to befiege Favonius,
returns
Disgraceful retreat
Is defeated
289
290
402
Sicambri, their answer to Cæfar 66
Soldiers feize Domitius, fend to
Cæfar, and proffer to furren-
der at difcretion
213
A foldier taken up by an ele-
phant in his trunk, wounds
the bealt fo that he is obliged
to let him go again
Suabians, their cuſtoms
Prepare for a war againſt the
Romans
Swifs, war with them
402
· 59
121
4
5
They have leave to pass through
Franchecompté, by the im-
portunity of Dumnorix
They ſend embaffadors to Ca-
far to defire a peace
They attack the Roman rear,
12
7
and engage
They are entirely routed, and
fend a fecond embaffage for
peace
13
The war ended with them 14
T
Tafgetius murdered by his fubjects
89
Teroüenne and Guelders, war in
them
76
288'
Theffaly and Ætolia declare for
Cafar
Theutomatus, king of the Nitio-
briges, comes over to Vercin-
getorix's affiftance
144
Thorius arrives at Cordova 354
Cauſes Pompey's name to be en-
graven on the foldiers fhields,
which they rafe out again, and
choofe Marcellus their general
355
Tifdrum declares for Cafar 380
V
Valais, an account of the war
there
46
ibid.
They befiege Galba
Vannes, war with them and the
fea-ports
48
Vatinius fits out a fleet, engages
Octavius, and beats him 348
Vercingetorix takes arms, is expel-
led his country, but lifting an
army, he returns and drives
out his enemies, and is then
declared king
130
An account of his wars with Ca-
far
132
He is accuſed of treafon, but af-
terwards, on a right under-
ftanding, is acquitted, and
commended by the whole ar-
my
138
Vergafilaunus, with 55,000 chofen
men, goes to attack Antiftius's
quarters
171
173
Is taken prifoner
Viridumarus and Eporedarix feize
Nevers, and put the garrifon
to the ſword
155
Ulla befieged by Pompey junior4 10
Volcatius Tullus repulfes a legion
of Pompey's, with three co-
horts
297
Volufenus fent to purfue Comius
Uffeldon furrenders
FTNI S.
196
194
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