Thus the whole body of the enemy being intent on the person of Brutus alone, his capture seemed inevitable.
21.

In this deplorable exigence, Lucil'ius, his friend, resolved, by his own death, to effect his general's delivery.22.Seeing a body of Thracian horse closely pursuing Brutus, and just upon the point of taking him, he boldly threw himself in their way, telling them that _he_ was Brutus.

The Thra'cians overjoyed with so great a prize, immediately despatched some of their companions with the news of their success to the army.23.Upon this, the ardour of the pursuit abating, Antony marched out to meet his prisoner, either to hasten his death, or insult his misfortunes.

He was followed by a great number of officers and soldiers, some silently deploring the fate of so virtuous a man, others reproaching that mean desire of life far which he consented to undergo captivity.24.Antony now seeing the Thracians approach, began to prepare himself for the interview; but the faithful Lucilius, advancing with a cheerful air--"It is _not_ Brutus," said he, "that is taken; fortune has not yet had the power of committing so great an outrage upon virtue.

As for my life, it is well lost in preserving his honour; take it, for I have deceived you." Antony, struck with so much fidelity, pardoned him, loaded him with benefits, and honoured him with his friendship.
25.