A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

a centurion, was appointed by Vitellius (A. D. 69) praefect of the praetorian guards on the recommendation of Fabius Valens. When news arrived that the army, which had espoused the side of Vespasian, was marching upon Rome, Julius Priscus was sent with Alphenus Varus at the head of fourteen praetorian cohorts and all the squadrons of cavalry to take possession of the passes of the Apennines, but he and Varus disgracefully deserted their post and returned to Rome. After the death of Vitellius, Priscus put an end to his life, more, says Tacitus, through shame than necessity. (Tac. Hist. 2.92, 3.55, 61, 4.11.)