He was, on the contrary, modest and unassuming, and he acted in all respects in such a manner as to gain the approbation and the kind regard of all who knew him, as well as to excite their applause.

There was an old general at this time in Gaul--for all these events took place long before the time of Caesar's campaigns in that country, and, in fact, before the commencement of his successful career in Rome--whose name was Metellus, and who, either on account of his advancing age, or for some other reason, was very inefficient and unsuccessful in his government.

Sylla proposed to supersede him by sending Pompey to take his place.

Pompey replied that it was not right to take the command from a man who was so much his superior in age and character, but that, if Metellus wished for his _assistance_ in the management of his command, he would proceed to Gaul and render him every service in his power.

When this answer was reported to Metellus, he wrote to Pompey to come.