24.17
During
these proceedings at Beneventum, Hannibal, after ravaging the Neapolitan
territory, shifted his camp to Nola. As soon as the consul became aware of
his approach he sent for Pomponius, the propraetor, to join him with the
army which was in camp above Suessula, and prepared to meet the enemy
without delay. He sent C. Claudius Nero with the best of the cavalry out
through the camp gate which was furthest from the enemy, in the dead of
night, with instructions to ride round to the rear of the enemy without being
observed and follow him slowly, and when he saw the battle begin, throw
himself across his rear. Nero was unable to follow out his instructions,
whether because he lost his way or because he had not sufficient time is
uncertain. The battle commenced in his absence and the Romans
undoubtedly had the advantage, but owing to the cavalry not making their
appearance in time the general's plans were all upset. Marcellus did not
venture to pursue the retreating Carthaginians, and gave the signal for retreat
though his soldiers were actually conquering. It is asserted that more than
2000 of the enemy were killed that day, whilst the Romans lost less than
400. About sunset Nero returned with his horses and men tired out to no
purpose and without having even seen the enemy. He was severely censured
by the consul who even went so far as to say that it was entirely his fault that
they had not inflicted on the enemy in his turn a defeat as crushing as the one
at Cannae. The next day the Romans marched into the field, but the
Carthaginian remained in camp, thereby tacitly admitting that he was
vanquished. The following day he gave up all hope of gaining possession of
Nola, his attempts having been always foiled, and proceeded to Tarentum,
where he had better hopes of securing the place through treachery.