In 92 he went as Propraetor to govern the province of Asia, and here he first met MITHRADATES.
This monarch, who ruled over Pontus, was an extraordinary man.

He spoke many languages, was the idol, of his subjects, and had boundless ambition.

He doubted the durability of the Roman Empire, and began to enlarge his own territory, with no apparent fear of Rome's interference.
Cappadocia, a neighboring country, was under Roman protection, and was ruled by a prince, ARIOBARZANES, that Rome had recognized.

This country Mithradates attacked.

He killed the prince, and placed on the throne his own nephew.
Rome interfered, and Sulla was instructed to visit the monarch.