This was Crassus, who had been Pompey's opponent in earlier times, and who now renewed his hostility.

In the contest that ensued, Pompey relied on his renown, Crassus on his wealth.

Pompey attempted to please the people by combats of lions and of elephants which he had brought home from his foreign campaigns; Crassus courted their favor by distributing corn among them, and inviting them to public feasts on great occasions.

He spread for them, at one time, it was said, ten thousand tables.

All Rome was filled with the feuds of these great political foes.