His countenance had been rendered haggard and cadaverous partly by the influence of exposures, hardships, and suffering upon his advanced age, and partly by the stern and moody plans and determinations of revenge which his mind was perpetually revolving.

He listened to the deputations which the Roman Senate sent out to him from time to time, as he advanced toward the city, but refused to make any terms.

He moved forward with all the outward deliberation and calmness suitable to his years, while all the ferocity of a tiger was burning within.
[Sidenote: Executions by order of Marius.] As soon as he had gained possession of the city, he began his work of destruction.

He first beheaded one of the consuls, and ordered his head to be set up, as a public spectacle, in the most conspicuous place in the city.

This was the beginning.