Ab urbe condita

On the side of the enemy the loss was less, but certainly the courage displayed was not greater. As soon as it began to grow light the Romans were anxious to retire without fighting, but there was only one way and that led past the enemy; if they took that route it would amount to a challenge, for it would look as though they were directly advancing to attack the Samnite camp.

The consul issued a general order for the soldiers to arm for battle and follow him outside the rampart.

He then gave the necessary instructions to the officers of his staff, the military tribunes, and the prefects of the allies.