The conqueror returned to Rome the undisputed master of the whole Roman world.
[Illustration: The elephants made torch-bearers.] [Sidenote: Caesar's triumphs.] [Sidenote: The triumphal car breaks down.] [Sidenote: Elephant torch-bearers.] Then came his triumphs.

Triumphs were great celebrations, by which military heroes in the days of the Roman commonwealth signalized their victories on their return to the city Caesar's triumphs were four, one for each of his four great successful campaigns, viz., in Egypt, in Asia Minor, in Africa, and in Spain.

Each was celebrated on a separate day, and there was an interval of several days between them, to magnify their importance, and swell the general interest which they excited among the vast population of the city.

On one of these days, the triumphal car in which Caesar rode, which was most magnificently adorned, broke down on the way, and Caesar was nearly thrown out of it by the shock.

The immense train of cars, horses, elephants, flags, banners, captives, and trophies which formed the splendid procession was all stopped by the accident, and a considerable delay ensued.