and
Hirtius, however, were elated at this, and approaching the fortifications
of Antony challenged him to combat; he for a time was alarmed and
remained quiet, but later when some reinforcements sent by Lepidus came
to him he took courage. Lepidus himself did not make it clear to which
of the two sides he sent the army: he thought well of Antony, who was a
relative, but had been summoned against him by the senate; and for these
reasons he made plans to have a refuge in store with both parties, by not
giving to Marcus Silanus, the commander, orders that were in the least
clear. But he, doubtless knowing well his master's frame of mind, went on
his own responsibility to Antony. [-39-] So when the latter had been thus
assisted he became bold and made a sudden sally from the gates: there was
great slaughter on both sides, but at last he turned and fled.

Up to this time Caesar was being strengthened by the people and the
senate, and because of this expected that among other honors to be
bestowed he would be forthwith appointed consul. It happened that Hirtius
perished in the occupation of Antony's camp and Vibius died of his wounds
not long after, so that Caesar was charged with having caused their death
that he might succeed to the office. But the senate had previously, while
it was still uncertain which of the two would prevail, done away with all
the privileges which formerly, granted to any person beyond the customs
of the forefathers, had paved the way to sovereignty: they voted that
this edict should apply to both parties, intending by it to anticipate
the victor, while laying the blame upon the other, who should be
defeated. First they forbade any one to hold office more than a year, and
second that any superintendent of grain supplies or commissioner of food
should be chosen. When they ascertained the outcome, they rejoiced at
Antony's defeat, changed their raiment once more, and celebrated a solemn
thanksgiving for sixty[21] days. All those arrayed on his side they held
in the light of enemies, and took possession of their property as they
did of the leader's. [-40-] Nor did they propose that Caesar any longer
should receive any great reward, but even undertook to overthrow him, by
allowing Decimus to secure all the prizes for which he was hoping. They
voted Decimus not only the right of sacrifice but a triumph and gave him
charge of the rest of the war and of the legions,--those of Vibius and
others. Upon the sold