They weighed the glory of persisting in their attempt against the advantage of securing their plunder; and they recommended the prudent measure of a seasonable retreat.

In this important debate, Alaric displayed the spirit of the conqueror of Rome; and after he had reminded his countrymen of their achievements and of their designs, he concluded his animating speech by the solemn and positive assurance that he was resolved to find in Italy either a kingdom or a grave.

[42] [Footnote 37: Every traveller must recollect the face of Lombardy, (see Fonvenelle, tom.v.p.

279,) which is often tormented by the capricious and irregular abundance of waters.

The Austrians, before Genoa, were encamped in the dry bed of the Polcevera.