With Sextus having gone over to the city of Gabii, he slowly wins the people to his side. Then he sends word to his father, asking for further instructions...

Task: categorise these terms from the chapter into those about knowledge and those about the lack of it.

When you have finished translating and discussing this passage, you should be able to answer the following:

1. How does Sextus win over the following:

i) the elders of the town;

ii) the youth;

iii) the soldiers?

2. What method do Sextus and his father use to communicate and why do you think they choose such an elaborate one?

3. huic nuntio … vocem emisisse. How does Livy convey the messenger’s sense of confusion? Make three points and refer to Livy’s style of writing.

4. Explain how some of the population of Gabii are the victims of Sextus’ coup, whilst others are beneficiaries.