guardian abroad of their
fortunes, in the very person of the public enemy. After this incursion
and exploit, which was of great advantage to the Volscians, since they
learned by it to be more courageous and to despise their enemy, Marcius
drew them off, and returned in safety.

But when the whole strength of the Volscians was brought together into
the field, with great expedition, it appeared so considerable a body,
that they agreed to leave part in garrison, for the security of their
towns, and with the other part to march against the Romans. Marcius
now desired Tullus to choose which of the two charges would be most
agreeable to him. Tullus answered, that since he knew Marcius to be
equally valiant with himself, and far more fortunate, he would have him
take the command of those that were going out to the war, while he made
it his care to defend their cities at home, and provide all conveniences
for the army abroad. Marcius thus reinforced, and much stronger than
before, moved first towards the city called Circaeum, a Roman colony.
He received its surrender, and did the inhabitants no injury; passing
thence, he entered and laid waste the country of the Latins, where
he expected the Romans would meet him, as the Latins were their
confederates and allies, and had often sent to demand succor from them.
the people, however, on their part, showing little inclination for the
service, and the consuls themselves being unwilling to run the hazard of
a battle, when the time of their office was almost ready to expire, they
dismissed the Latin ambassadors without any effect; so that Marcius,
finding no army to oppose him, marched up to their cities, and, having
taken by force Toleria, Lavici, Peda, and Bols, all of which offered
resistance, not only plundered their houses, but made a prey likewise
of their persons. Meantime, he showed particular regard for all such
as came over to his party, and, for fear they might sustain any damage
against his will, encamped them at the greatest distance he could, and
wholly abstained from their property.

After, however, he had made himself master of Bols, a town not above ten
miles from Rome, where he found great treasure, and put almost all
the adults to the sword; the other Volscians that were ordered to
stay behind and protect their cities, hearing of his achievements
and success, had not patience to remain any longer at home, but came
hastening in their arms to Marcius, saying that he a