The first conflict which he had with Afra'nius and Petrei'us was rather unfavourable.

It was fought near the city of Ilerda,[8] and both sides claimed the honour of the victory.

But, by various stratagems, he reduced them at last to such extremity of hunger and drought, that they were obliged to yield at discretion.27.

Clemency was his favourite virtue; he dismissed them all with the kindest professions, and then sent them home to Rome loaded with shame, and with obligations to publish his virtues, and confirm the affections of his adherents.28.Thus, in the space of about forty days, he became master of Spain, and returned again victorious to Rome.

The citizens on this occasion received him with fresh demonstrations of joy, and created him dictator and consul.