"It is your presence there as the representative of the army, as my kinsman, and as the son of the general who did such good service to the state that will profit our cause.
"It is your mission to tell Carthage that now is her time or never; that Rome already totters from the blows I have struck her, and that another blow only is requisite to stretch her in the dust.

A mighty effort is needed to overthrow once for all our great rival.
"Sacrifices will be needed, and great ones, to obtain the object, but Rome once fallen the future of Carthage is secure.

What is needed is that Carthage should obtain and keep the command of the sea for two years, that at least twenty-five thousand men should be sent over in the spring, and as many in the spring following.

With such reinforcements I will undertake to destroy absolutely the power of Rome.

Tomorrow I will furnish you with letters to our friends at home, giving full details as to the course they should pursue and particulars of our needs.
"A party of horse shall accompany you to the coast, with a score of men used to navigation.