Having taken these measures for his own security, he proceeded to show himself more active and enterprising than any monarch since Longimanus.

It was now nearly half a century since one of the important provinces of the Empire--Egypt--had successfully asserted its independence and restored the throne of its native kings.

General after general had been employed in vain attempts to reduce the rebels to obedience.

Ochus determined to attempt the recovery of the revolted province in person.

Though a rebellion had broken out in Asia Minor, which being supported by Thebes, threatened to become serious, he declined to be diverted from his enterprise.