At one time, when he was absent from Rome, at Naples, he was taken sick.

After being for some days in considerable danger, the crisis passed favorably, and he recovered.

Some of the people of Naples proposed a public thanksgiving to the gods, to celebrate his restoration to health.

The plan was adopted by acclamation, and the example, thus set, extended from city to city, until it had spread throughout Italy, and the whole country was filled with the processions, games, shows, and celebrations, which were instituted every where in honor of the event.

And when Pompey returned from Naples to Rome, the towns on the way could not afford room for the crowds that came forth to meet him.