Ch. 1.
12. Ptolemaeum: this was the famous Ptolemy Philadelphus. He was engaged in war with Antiochus II, king of Syria, for a long time, but finally concluded peace with him and gave him his daughter in marriage. He was noted for his patronage of literature and science.
14. Antiochus: this was the name of several kings of Syria. The one referred to here was Antiochus II, called Theos.
grātiās … ēgit: ‘gave thanks.’
16. Hierō: more properly the king of Syracuse (see Bk. II, 18, 19). During his reign the celebrated mathematician Archimedes lived. He became the firm ally of the Romans, and when the Second Punic War broke out he remained true to his alliance. After the battle of Lake Trasimenus he sent a fleet with provisions and other gifts to the Romans and also furnished them with a body of light troops.
18. exhibuit: lit. ‘held out’ ＝ ‘presented.’
Ch. 2.
19. quibus: sc. annīs; cf. tempore, Ch. 1.
20. Ligurēs: they inhabited the upper part of the Po valley. They were of small stature, but strong, active, and brave. In early times they served as mercenaries in the armies of Carthage. They were not subdued finally by the Romans until after a long and fierce struggle. Genua was their chief city.