He deplored the many brave men that were to fall on both sides, and the wounds of his country, whoever might be victorious.15.His soldiers answered only with looks of ardour and impatience.

He gave the signal to begin.

The word on Pompey's side was, "Her'cules the Invincible:" that on Caesar's, "Ve'nus the Victorious." 16.

There was no more space between both armies than to give room for the charge: Pompey therefore ordered his men to receive the first shock without moving from their places, expecting the enemy's ranks to be put into disorder.

Caesar's soldiers were now rushing on with their usual impetuosity, when, perceiving the enemy motionless, they all stopt short, as if by general consent, and halted in the midst of their career.17.A terrible pause ensued, in which both armies continued to gaze upon each other with mutual terror and dreadful serenity.