[Sidenote: Gratian 367-383]

[Sidenote: HOSTILE RELATIONS WITH ROME ENDED BY A TRUCE]

[Sidenote: Theodosius 379-305]

XXVII Now in the place of Valens, his uncle, the 139
Emperor Gratian established Theodosius the Spaniard in
the Eastern Empire. Military discipline was soon restored
to a high level, and the Goth, perceiving that the
cowardice and sloth of former princes was ended, became
afraid. For the Emperor was famed alike for his acuteness
and discretion. By stern commands and by generosity
and kindness he encouraged a demoralized army to
deeds of daring. But when the soldiers, who had obtained 140
a better leader by the change, gained new confidence,
they sought to attack the Goths and drive them
from the borders of Thrace. But as the Emperor Theodosius
fell so sick at this time that his life was almost
despaired of, the Goths were again inspired with courage.
Dividing the Gothic army, Fritigern set out to plunder
Thessaly, Epirus and Achaia, while Alatheus and Safrac
with the rest of the troops made for Pannonia. Now the 141
Emperor Gratian had at this time retreated from Rome to
Gaul because of the invasions of the Vandals. When he
learned that the Goths were acting with greater boldness
because Theodosius was in despair of his life, he quickly
gathered an army and came against them. Yet he put no
trust in arms, but sought to conquer them by kindness and
gifts. So he entered on a truce with them and made