The contest was decided by the naval battle off Cape Actium, in
Greece, September 2, 31. Antony had collected from all parts of the
East a large army, in addition to his fleet, which was supported by
that of Cleopátra. He wished to decide the contest on land; but
Cleopátra insisted that they should fight by sea. The fleet of
Octavius was commanded by Agrippa, who had been in command at the sea-
fight off Naulochus. The battle lasted a long time, and was still
undecided, when Cleopátra hoisted sail and with her sixty vessels
hastened to leave the line. Antony at once followed her. The battle,
however, continued until his remaining fleet was destroyed, and his
army, after a few days' hesitation, surrendered.

Octavius did not follow Antony for about a year. He passed the winter
in Samos, sending Agrippa to Italy with the veterans. His time was
occupied in restoring order in Greece and Asia, in raising money to
satisfy the demands of his troops, and in founding new colonies. At
length he turned his attention to Egypt. After capturing Pelusium, the
key of the country, he marched upon Alexandría. Antony, despairing of
success, committed suicide, expiring in the arms of Cleopátra. The
queen, disdaining to adorn the triumph of the conqueror, followed his
example, and was found dead on her couch, in royal attire, with her
two faithful attendants also dead at her feet.

Octavius was now sole ruler of Rome. Before returning to the capital
to celebrate his triumphs, he organized Egypt as a province, settled
disputes in Judaea, and arranged matters in Syria and Asia Minor. He
arrived at Rome (August 29), and enjoyed three magnificent triumphs.
The gates of the temple of JANUS--which were open in time of war, and
had been closed but twice before, once during Numa's reign, and once