“The Histories (Book I)” (Chap. 78)

1 There was a certain Naravas, a Numidian of high rank and full of martial spirit. He had always had that attachment to the Carthaginians which was traditional in his family, and it was now strengthened by his admiration for Hamilcar.

2 Thinking that this was a favourable opportunity for meeting Hamilcar and introducing himself, he rode up to the camp escorted by about a hundred Numidians.

3 Coming close to the palisade he remained there quite fearlessly making signals with his hand.

4 Hamilcar wondered what his object could be and sent out a horseman to meet him, when he said that he desired an interview with the general.

5 The Carthaginian leader remaining still much amazed and distrustful, Naravas handed over his horse and spears to his
attendants.

6 And very boldly came into the camp unarmed. The Carthaginians looked on in mixed admiration and amazement at his daring.

7 But they met and received him, and when he was admitted to the interview, he said that he wished all the Carthaginians well but particularly desired the friendship of Barcas, and this was why he had come to introduce himself and offer his cordial assistance in all actions and enterprises.

8 Hamilcar, on hearing this, was so delighted at the young man's courage in coming to him and his simple frankness at their interview that not only did he consent to associate him in his undertakings but swore to give him his daughter in marriage.

9 If he remained loyal to Carthage. The agreement having thus been made, Naravas came in with the Numidians under his command, about two thousand in number.

10 And Hamilcar, thus reinforced, offered battle owing to the enemy. Spendius, after effecting a junction with the Libyans, descended into the plain and attacked the Carthaginians.

11 The battle was a stubborn one, but ended in the victory of Hamilcar, the elephants fighting well and Naravas rendering brilliant services.

12 Autaritus and Spendius escaped, but with the loss of about ten thousand killed and four thousand prisoners.

13 After the victory Hamilcar gave permission to those of the prisoners who chose to join his own army, arming them with the spoils of the fallen enemies.

14 Those who were unwilling to do so he collected and addressed saying that up to now he pardoned their offences, and therefore they were free to go their several ways, wherever each man chose.

15 But in future he threatened that if any of them bore arms against Carthage he would if captured meet with inevitable
punishment.