The extinction of this conspiracy seemed only to leave an open theatre for the ambition of the great men to display itself in.

Pompey was now returned in triumph from conquering the east, as he had before been victorious in Europe and Africa.
26.

Crassus was the richest man in Rome, and next to Pompey, possessed the greatest authority; his party in the senate was even greater than that of his rival, and the envy raised against him was less.

He and Pompey had long been disunited by an opposition of interests and of characters; however, it was from a continuance of their mutual jealousies that the state was in some measure to expect its future safety.27.It was in this situation of things that Julius Caesar, who had lately gone, as praetor, into Spain, and had returned with great riches and glory, resolved to convert their mutual jealousy to his own advantage.28.This celebrated man was descended from popular and illustrious ancestors.

He warmly espoused the side of the people, and shortly after the death of Sylla, procured the recall of those whom Sylla had banished.