When you have entered the territory of an enemy, you may have a near view of his advantages and disadvantages.
Hannibal did not expect that it would come to pass that so many of the states in Italy would come over to him as did so after the defeat at Cannae.

How much less would any firmness or constancy be experienced in Africa by the Carthaginians, who are themselves faithless allies, oppressive and haughty masters! Besides, we, even when deserted by our allies, stood firm in our own strength, the Roman soldiery.

The Carthaginians possess no native strength.

The soldiers they have are obtained by hire;--Africans and Numidians--people remarkable above all others for the inconstancy of their attachments.

Provided no impediment arises here, you will hear at once that I have landed, and that Africa is blazing with war; that Hannibal is preparing for his departure from this country, and that Carthage is besieged.