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That is right, my brothers in arms; let us all agree to swallow our vainglory. I asked what was lacking to complete Caesar's happiness. Now you know it. 'Twas the recognition of the truth that was lacking in Caesar's happiness. Your silver helmet will never be dimmed with the dust of the triumph, Florentius! The Emperor has already triumphed for us, in Rome. He therefore declares all festivities here to be superfluous. Go, Sintula, and see that the intended procession is countermanded. The Emperor wishes to give his soldiers a much-needed rest. 'Tis his will that they remain in the camp outside the walls.

[The Master of the Horse,, goes out by the back.

Was I not once a philosopher? They said so, at least, both in Athens and Ephesus. So weak is human nature in the hours of success; I had almost been false to philosophy. The Emperor has brought me to my senses. Thank him most humbly, Decentius. Have you more to say?

One thing more. From all the Emperor has learnt, and especially from the letter you wrote him from Argentoratum, it appears that the great work of pacification in Gaul is happily accomplished.

Most certainly; the Emperor, partly by his valour, partly by his magnanimous clemency