Ab urbe condita

allies. This force was to be made up of the Latins and the Hernici, whilst the colony at Antium was to supply “subitary” troops —a designation then applied to hastily raised auxiliary troops.

Numerous maneuvers and skirmishes took place during these days, because the enemy with his superior numbers was able to attack the Romans from many points and so wear out their strength, as they were not able to meet them everywhere.

Whilst one part of their army attacked the camp, another was sent to devastate the Roman territory, and, if a favourable opportunity arose, to make an attempt on the City itself.

L. Valerius was left to guard the City, the consul Postumius was sent to repel the raids on the frontier.

No precaution was omitted, no exertion spared; detachments were posted in the City, bodies of troops before the gates, veterans manned the walls, and as a necessary measure in a time of such disturbance, a cessation of public business was ordered for some days.