Kitap 31
12.13
The emperor scorned these because of their low origin, demanding for the execution of a lasting treaty that suitable chieftains be sent; meanwhile the enemy purposely delayed, in order that during the pretended truce their cavalry might return, who, they hoped, would soon make their appearance; also that our soldiers might be exposed to the fiery summer heat and exhausted by their dry throats,I.e., by thirst. while the broad plains gleamed with fires, which the enemy were feeding with wood and dry fuel, for this same purpose.I.e., to exhaust the Romans by heat and thirst. To that evil was added another deadly one, namely, that men and beasts were tormented by severe hunger.
12.14
Meanwhile Fritigern, shrewd to foresee the future and fearing the uncertainty of war, on his own initiative sent one of his common soldiers as a herald, requesting that picked men of noble rank be sent to him at once as hostages and saying that he himself would fearlessly meet the threats of his soldiers and do what was necessary.The meaning of ipse minas . . . necessaria is uncertain, and the text perhaps corrupt. It seems to mean that he would put up with the anger felt by his own soldiers because of his virtual overture of peace.
