Book 17
8.3
After these preparations he first of all aimed at the Franks, those namely whom custom calls the Salii,They dwelt between the Maas and the Schelde. who once had the great assurance to venture to fix their abodes on Roman soil at Toxiandria.The capital of the Toxiandri, who dwelt in modern Zeeland and the northern part of Flanders. It was then connected territory, but intersected by many marshes; modern Tessender Lo. But when he had reached Tongres,In the Belgian part of the province of Limberg; see Tac., Germ. 2. a deputation of the aforesaid people met him, expecting to find the commander even then in winter quarters; and they offered peace on these terms, that while they remained quiet, as in their own territories, no one should attack or molest them. After having fully discussed the matter and proposed in reply some puzzling conditions, as if intending to remain in the same district until they returned, he gave these envoys gifts and dismissed them.
8.4
But quicker than a flash he followed them up after their departure, and sending his general Severus along the river bank, fell upon the whole troop suddenly and smote them like a thunderstorm; at once they took to entreaties rather than to resistance, and he turned the outcome of his victory into the timely direction of mercy by receiving them in surrender with their property and their children.
