I pass over those things in which you might be allowed to glory; I will mention a circumstance which of itself ought to fill you with shame and remorse.

Yesterday you separated from the enemy on equal terms.

What alteration has last night, what on this day, produced?
Have your forces been diminished by them, or theirs increased?
I verily do not seem to be talking to my own troops, or to Roman soldiers.

The bodies and the arms are the same.

Had you possessed the same spirit, would the enemy have seen your backs?
Would they have carried off a standard from any company or cohort?
Hitherto he was wont to boast of having cut to pieces the Roman legions, but yesterday you gave him the glory, for the first time, of having put to flight an army." On this many soldiers began to call upon him to pardon them for that day, and entreat that he would now, whenever he pleased, make trial of the courage of his soldiers.