These, while they only poured in volleys of
arrows at a distance did thick and extensive execution; but, approaching
too near, were by a sudden sally put in disorder. They were however
supported by a cohort of the Sigambrians, purposely posted by Sabinus in
readiness against an exigency; a people these, equally terrible in the
boisterous and mixed uproar of their voices and arms.
He afterwards pitched his camp nearer to the enemy; having in his former
entrenchments left the Thracians, whom I have mentioned to have joined us.
To them too was permitted "to lay waste, burn, and plunder; on condition
that their ravages were confined to the day; and that, at nights, they
kept within the camp, secure under guard." This restriction was at first
observed; but, anon lapsing into luxury, and grown opulent in plunder,
they neglected their guards, and resigned themselves to gaiety and
banquetting, to the intoxication and sloth of wine and sleep. The enemy
therefore apprised of their negligence, formed themselves into two bands;
one to set upon the plunderers; the other to assault the Roman camp, with
no hopes of taking it; but only that the soldiers alarmed with shouts and
darts, and all intent upon their own defence, might not hear the din of
the other battle: moreover to heighten the terror, it was to be done by
night.
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