Suetonius
says that the sections had been carefully taken so as not to disturb
existing occupants; and thus it appeared that he had been thinking of them
and providing for them when they supposed themselves forgotten. Money,
too, he had ready for each, part in hand, part in bonds bearing interest,
to be redeemed when the war should be over. Again, passionately, they
implored to be allowed to continue with him. He relented, but not
entirely.
"Let all go who wish to go," he said; "I will have none serve with me who
serve unwillingly."
"All, all!" they cried; "not one of us will leave you"--and not one went.
The mutiny was the greatest peril, perhaps, to which Caesar had ever been
exposed. No more was said; but Caesar took silent notice of the officers
who had encouraged the discontented spirit. In common things, Dion Cassius
says, he was the kindest and most considerate of commanders. He passed
lightly over small offences; but military rebellion in those who were
really responsible he never forgave.
[Sidenote: B.C. 46.]
The African business could now be attended to. It was again midwinter.
Winter campaigns were trying, but Caesar had hitherto found them answer to
him; the enemy had suffered more than himself; while, as long as an
opposition Senate was sitting across the Mediterranean, intrigue and
conspiracy made security impossible at home.
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