shouts from both places reaching them with equal force induced them to halt; then, on the side of the camp, which had been set on fire by the Romans, the wide-spreading flames indicating with more certainty the disaster [which had happened], prevented their proceeding any farther.  In that same spot, stretched on the ground at random under their arms, they passed the whole night in great inquietude, at one time wishing for, at another dreading the light.  At the first dawn, while they were still undetermined to what quarter they should direct their march, they were obliged to betake themselves hastily to flight, being descried by the cavalry; who having gone in pursuit of the Samnites, that left the town in the night, saw the multitude unprotected either by a rampart or advanced guard.  This party had likewise been perceived from the walls of Aquilonia, and the legionary cohorts now joined in the pursuit.  The foot were unable to overtake them, but about two hundred and eighty of their rear guard were cut off by the cavalry.  In their consternation they left behind them a great quantity of arms and eighteen military standards:  they reached Bovianum with the rest of their party in safety, as far as could be expected after so disorderly a rout.

44.  The joy of both Roman armies was enhanced by the success achieved on the other side.  Each consul, with the approbation of his colleague, gave to his soldiers the plunder of the town which he had taken; and, when the houses were cleared, set them on fire.  Thus, on the same day, Aquilonia and Cominium were both reduced to ashes.  The consuls then united their camps, where mutual congratulations took place between them and between their soldiers.  Here, in the view of the two armies, Carvilius bestowed on his men commendations and presents according to the desert of each; and Papirius likewise, whose troops had been engaged in a variety of actions, in the field, in the assault of the camp, and in that of the city, presented Spurius Nautius, Spurius Papirius, his nephew, four centurions, and a company of the spearmen, with bracelets and crowns of gold:—­to Nautius, on account of his behaviour at the head of his detachment, when he had terrified the enemy with the appearance as of a numerous army; to young Papirius, on account of his zealous exertions with the cavalry, both in the battle and in harassing the Samnites in their flight by night, when they withdrew privately from Aquilonia; and to the centurions and company of soldiers, because they were the first who gained possession of the gate and wall of that town.  All the horsemen he presented with gorgets and bracelets of silver, on account of their distinguished conduct on many occasions.  As the time was now come for withdrawing the army out of Samnium, the expediency was considered, as to whether they should withdraw both, or at least one.  It was concluded, that the lower the strength of the Samnites was reduced, the greater perseverance