This resolution of postponing the battle, was the chance that the republican army had for victory; and Cassius, sensible of his advantage, resolved to harass rather than engage the enemy.8.But Brutus, who began to suspect the fidelity of some of his officers, used all his influence to persuade Cassius to change his resolution.

"I am impatient," said he, "to put an end to the miseries of mankind; and in this I hope to succeed whether I conquer or fall." 9.

His wishes were soon gratified; for Antony's soldiers having, with great labour, made a road through the marsh which lay to the left of Cassius's camp, by that means opened a communication with the island of Thasos, which lay behind him.

Both armies, after several attempts to possess themselves of this road, resolved at length to come to a general engagement.10.This, however, was contrary to the advice of Cassius, who found himself forced, as Pompey had formerly been, to expose the liberty of Rome to the hazard of a battle.

On the ensuing morning, the two generals gave the signal for engaging, and conferred together a little while before the battle began.11.Cassius desired to be informed how Brutus intended to act in case they should be unsuccessful.