70.
The work having been begun, a cavalry action ensues in that plain, which we have
already described as broken by hills, and extending three miles in length. The
contest is maintained on both sides with the utmost vigor; Caesar sends the Germans to aid our
troops when distressed, and draws up the legions in front of the camp, lest any
sally should be suddenly made by the enemy's infantry. The courage of our men is
increased by the additional support of the legions; the enemy being put to
flight, hinder one another by their numbers, and as only the narrower gates were
left open, are crowded together in them; then the Germans pursue them with vigor even to the fortifications. A great
slaughter ensues; some leave their horses, and endeavor to cross the ditch and
climb the wall. Caesar orders the legions which he had
drawn up in front of the rampart to advance a little. The Gauls,
who were within the fortifications, were no less panic-stricken, thinking that
the enemy were coming that moment against them, and unanimously shout "to arms;"
some in their alarm rush into the town; Vercingetorix orders the
gates to be shut, lest the camp should be left undefended. The Germans retreat, after slaying many and taking several
horses.
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