f Nola had told the speaker how many were his brilliant feats of arms. But
to a man who had served in the Roman camp his bravery
could not be unknown. Many who had been in the service
with Bantius were telling the speaker [i.e., Marcellus]
what a man he was, and what danger he had incurred for
the safety and honour of the Roman people, and how often; also how at the battle of Cannae he had not ceased
fighting until, almost lifeless, he had been overwhelmed
by the mass of men, horses and arms that fell upon him. "And so," he said, "all honour to your courage! Under me you will have every advancement and every reward, and the more constantly you are with me, the more you will feel
that it is a distinction and an advantage to you." The youth was delighted with the promises, and Marcellus gave him a fine horse and ordered the quaestor to pay him five hundred denarii. The lictors were bidden to allow him access to the commander whenever he wished.
These blandishments proved fully effective: "By this kindness on the part of Marcellu
...