By skilful tactics and a successful attack he put to flight and nearly
annihilated the Suessiónes. The Bellovaci now put themselves under his
protection, but the Nervii remained in arms. One day, while the six
legions were forming camp on the bank of the river Sabis, the Nervii
and their allies suddenly rushed upon them from an ambuscade in the
woods on the opposite bank. The troops were entirely unprepared, and
so quick was the enemy's charge that the Romans had not time to put on
their helmets, to remove the covering from their shields, or to find
their proper places in the ranks. Great confusion followed, and they
became almost panic-stricken. Caesar rushed into their midst, snatched
a shield from a soldier, and by his presence and coolness revived
their courage. The Nervii were checked, and victory was assured. But
the enemy fought on with a bravery that excited the admiration of
Caesar. Of sixty thousand men scarcely five hundred survived. The
women and children were cared for kindly by Caesar, and settled in
their own territory.

The Aduatuci, who had assisted the Nervii in their struggle, were
conquered by Caesar and sold into slavery.

Thus ended the Belgian campaign (57). The legions were put into winter
quarters near where the war had been waged, and Caesar went to Italy.
In his honor was decreed a thanksgiving lasting fifteen days.


THE VENETI.--INVASION OF GERMANY.

All the tribes in the northwestern part of Gaul (Brittany) except the
VENETI had given hostages to Crassus, son of the Triumvir, and