ression which startled the king, who had
often heard the language of the Romans, but then for the first time
heard their bold speech.

XXXII. On his return to Rome he built a house near the Forum, either,
as he gave out, because he did not wish those who paid their respects
to him to have the trouble of coming a great distance, or because he
thought the distance was the reason why a greater number of persons
did not visit his door than that of other persons. The reason,
however, was not this; but as Marius was inferior to others in
affability of manners and political usefulness, he was neglected, just
like an instrument of war in time of peace. As for others, he cared
less for their superior popularity, but he was grievously annoyed at
Sulla, who had risen to power through the dislike which the nobles
bore to Marius, and who made his quarrels with Marius the foundation
of his political conduct. But when Bocchus, the Numidian, on receiving
the title of 'Ally of the Romans,' erected in the Capitol Victories
bearing trophies, and by the side of them placed gilded figures
representing Jugurtha surrendered by him to Sulla, Marius was
transported with passion and jealousy at Sulla thus appropriating to
himself all the credit of this affair, and he was making ready
forcibly to throw down the figures. Sulla prepared to oppose him, and
a civil commotion was just on the point of breaking out, when it was
stopped by the Social[114] war, which suddenly burst upon the State.
In this war the most warlike and populous of the Italian nations
combined against Rome, and came very near to overthrowing her
supremacy, for they were not only well provided with munitions of war
and hardy soldiers, but they had commanders who displayed admirable
courage and skill, which made them a match for the Romans.

XXXIII. This war, which was diversified by many reverses and a great
variety of fortune, took from Marius as much reputation and influence
as it gave to Sulla. For Marius appeared slow in his plans, and on all
occasions rather over-cautious and tardy; whether it was that age had
quenched his wonted vigour and fire, for he was now in his sixty-sixth
year, or, as he alleged himself, his nerves were diseased and his body
was incapable of supporting fatigue, and yet from a feeling of honour
he endured the hardships of the campaign beyond his powers.
Notwithstanding this he won a great battle, in which he slaughtered
six thousand of the enemy, an