The consuls, then, dividing the provinces between them, Etruria fell to Scipio, the Samnites to Fulvius; and they set out by different routes, each against the enemy allotted to him.

Scipio, while he expected a tedious campaign, like that of the preceding year, was met near Volaterra by the Etrurians, in order of battle.

The fight lasted through the greater part of the day, while very many fell on both sides, and night came on while it was uncertain to which side victory inclined.

But the following dawn showed the conqueror and the vanquished; for the Etrurians had decamped in the dead of the night.

The Romans, marching out with intent to renew the engagement, and seeing their superiority acknowledged by the departure of the enemy, advanced to their camp; and, finding even this fortified post deserted, took possession of it, evacuated as it was, together with a vast quantity of spoil.