aprons, vervain[283] wreaths on their brows. Forth moves
the Ausonian army, bands with lifted javelins issuing 25
from the crowded gates. From yonder quarters pours the
Trojan and Tuscan force, with the arms of their several
countries, harnessed as if summoned by the War-god’s
bloody fray. In the midst of either squadrons the generals
flash along, glorious in gold and purple, Mnestheus, 30
Assaracus’ seed, and Asilas the brave, and Messapus,
tamer of horses, the progeny of Neptune. At a given
signal each army retreats within its confines; spears are