Page:The Emperor Marcus Antoninus - His Conversation with Himself.djvu/87

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Marcus Antoninus.
xxxv

would gladly have been left at Rome to have carried on his Debauchery, but this Antoninus was willing to prevent. The two Emperours therefore marched directly for Aquileia; and immediately after their Arrival, made up to the Marcomans, who lay entrench'd not far off; And here they forc'd their Camp, and routed them with a great Slaughter. [1] In this Fight Furius Victorinus, Captain of the Guards, with some of the best Troops, was cut off. However, this did not discourage the two Emperours from pushing their Point, and going on with their Advantage; In short, they press'd the Enemy so hard, that at last their Army grew Mutinous : Upon which the greatest part of their Confederates drew off their Forces, kill'd those who advised the Revolt, and sent to beg Peace of the Romans. Verus being satisfied with their Submissions, and fond of the Liberties of the Town, [2] was earnest with Antoninus to grant them their Request, and march home. What greater Advantage, says he, can your Majesty hope for than this offer ? Have you a mind to force your Enemies upon some desperate Attempt, and shew them the Weakness of the Empire whether they will or no? Let us rather manage their Ignorance, and make the most of their Consternation, and give them leave, while

c 2
they
  1. Capitol.
  2. Capitol. in Vero.