4.
In the same condition were the Usipetes and the
Tenchtheri (whom we have mentioned above), who, for many years,
resisted the power of the Suevi, but being at last driven from
their possessions, and having wandered through many parts of Germany , came to the
Rhine , to districts which the Menapii inhabited, and
where they had lands, houses, and villages on either side of the river. The
latter people, alarmed by the arrival of so great a multitude, removed from
those houses which they had on the other side of the river, and having placed
guards on this side the Rhine , proceeded to hinder
the Germans from crossing. They, finding themselves,
after they had tried all means, unable either to force a passage on account of
their deficiency in shipping, or cross by stealth on account of the guards of
the Menapii, pretended to return to their own settlements and
districts; and, after having proceeded three days' march, returned; and their
cavalry having performed the whole of this journey in one night, cut off the
Menapii, who were ignorant of, and did not expect [their
approach, and] who, having moreover been informed of the departure of the Germans by their scouts, had, without apprehension,
returned to their villages beyond the Rhine . Having slain these,
and seized their ships, they crossed the river before that part of the
Menapii, who were at peace in their settlements over the Rhine
, were apprized of [their intention]; and seizing all their houses,
maintained themselves upon their provisions during the rest of the winter.
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