39
The account of these transactions, sent to Rome by Agricola, was plain and simple, without any decoration of language to heighten the narrative. Domitian received it in the true spirit of his character, with a smile on his countenance, and malignity at his heart. He began to fear that the name of a private citizen might overshadow the imperial title. The reflection planted thorns in his breast. He resolved, however, to nourish resentment in sullen silence, till the tide of popularity which attended the general should ebb away, and the affection of the army had time to cool. Agricola was still in Britain, and had the command of the army and the province.
40
Domitian, in the meantime, caused a decree to pass the Senate, by which triumphal ornaments, the honour of a statue crowned with laurel, and all other marks of distinction usually substituted in the place of a real triumph were granted to Agricola. The Emperor had also the art to circulate a report, that the province of Syria, at that time vacant by the death of Atilius Rufus, an officer of consular rank, was intended for Agricola, in order to do him honour by an appointment always given to men of the highest eminence. However that may be, Agricola resigned the command (A. D. 85), and delivered to his successor, Sallustius Lucullus, a quiet and well ordered government.
