So that the foremost of them having gained the top of all, and put
themselves into order, they all but surprised the outworks, and
mastered the watch, who were fast asleep; for neither man nor dog
perceived their coming. But there were sacred geese kept near the
temple of Juno, which at other times were plentifully fed, but
now, by reason that corn and all other provisions were grown
scarce for all, were in but a poor condition. The creature is by
nature of quick sense, and apprehensive of the least noise, so
that these, being moreover watchful through hunger, and restless,
immediately discovered the coming of the Gauls, and, running up
and down with the noise and cackling, they raised the whole camp;
while the barbarians, on the other side, perceiving themselves
discovered, no longer endeavored to conceal their attempt, but
with shouting and violence advanced to the assault. The Romans,
every one in haste snatching up the first weapon that came to
hand, did what they could on the sudden occasion. Manlius, a man
of consular dignity, of strong body and great spirit, was the
first that made head against them, and, engaging with two of the
enemy at once, with his sword cut off the right arm of one just as
he was lifting up his blade to strike, and, running his target
full in the face of the other, tumbled him headlong down the steep
rock; then mounting the rampart, and there standing with others
that came running to his assistance, drove down the rest of them,
who, indeed, to begin with, had not been many, and did nothing
worthy of so bold an attempt.
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