desired. All these nations surpassed the Germans in size
and spirit, and fought with the cruelty of wild beasts.

(The United Goths)

[Sidenote: HOW THE GOTHS CAME TO SCYTHIA]

IV Now from this island of Scandza, as from a hive 25
of races or a womb of nations, the Goths are said to have
come forth long ago under their king, Berig by name.
As soon as they disembarked from their ships and set
foot on the land, they straightway gave their name to the
place. And even to-day it is said to be called Gothiscandza.
Soon they moved from here to the abodes of
the Ulmerugi, who then dwelt on the shores of Ocean, 26
where they pitched camp, joined battle with them and
drove them from their homes. Then they subdued their
neighbors, the Vandals, and thus added to their victories.
But when the number of the people increased greatly and
Filimer, son of Gadaric, reigned as king--about the fifth
since Berig--he decided that the army of the Goths with
their families should move from that region. In search 27
of suitable homes and pleasant places they came to the
land of Scythia, called Oium in that tongue. Here they
were delighted with the great richness of the country,
and it is said that when half the army had been brought
over, the bridge whereby they had crossed the river fell
in utter ruin, nor could anyone thereafter pass to or fro.
For the place is said to be surrounded by quaking bogs
and an encircling abyss, so that by this double obstacle