fall upon them. In the battle that followed, the barbarians were no
match for the drilled legionaries, who were irresistible. The contest
lasted two days, and the vast host of the Teutones was cut to pieces
(20 July, 102). At the close of this battle word was brought to Marius
that he had been elected Consul for the fifth time.

Meanwhile, the Cimbri had crossed the Alps and were ravaging the
fertile fields of Lombardy, meeting with but slight opposition from
Catulus, the other Consul.

The next year Marius came to his rescue. Near VERCELLAE the Cimbri met
the same fate as their brethren, and Italy was saved (101).

No sooner was the danger from the invasion over than political
quarrels broke out at Rome with great fury. Marius was elected Consul
for the sixth time. The popular heroes of the hour were two
demagogues, the Tribune SATURNÍNUS and the Praetor GLAUCIA. They
carried corn laws and land laws,[Footnote: These were the APPULEIAN
LAWS (100):--I. Any Roman citizen could buy corn of the state at a
nominal price. II. The land in Cisalpine Gaul, which the Cimbrians had
occupied, should be divided among the Italian and Roman citizens.
III. Colonies from the veterans of Marius were to be founded in
Sicily, Achaia, and Macedonia.] and compelled the Senators to take an
oath to execute their laws. Metellus Numidicus refusing to comply with
their wishes, Saturnínus sent a guard to the Senate-House, dragged him
out, and expelled him from the city.

During this troublesome time, Marius showed that he was no politician.
He lacked judgment and firmness, and by endeavoring to please all
parties he pleased none.