Their many miseries had confused their understandings.
The only feeling left them was one of exasperation, which went on developing; and one day they found themselves again in the gorges of Cobus and once more before Carthage! Then the actions multiplied.

Fortune remained equal; but both sides were so wearied that they would willingly have exchanged these skirmishes for a great battle, provided that it were really the last.
Matho was inclined to carry this proposal himself to the Suffet.

One of his Libyans devoted himself for the purpose.

All were convinced as they saw him depart that he would not return.
He returned the same evening.
Hamilcar accepted the challenge.

The encounter should take place the following day at sunrise, in the plain of Rhades.
The Mercenaries wished to know whether he had said anything more, and the Libyan added: "As I remained in his presence, he asked me what I was waiting for.
'To be killed!' I replied.