The shout was the first presage which way the victory would incline; that raised by the enemy was louder and more continued; that by the Romans, being dissonant, uneven, and frequently repeated in a lifeless manner, betrayed the prostration of their spirits.

The enemy advancing the more boldly on this account, pushed with their shields, brandished their swords; on the other side the helmets drooped, as the men looked around, and disconcerted they waver, and keep close to the main body.

The ensigns at one time standing their ground are deserted by their supporters, at another time they retreat between their respective companies.

As yet there was no absolute flight, nor was there victory.
The Romans rather covered themselves than fought.

The Volscians advanced, pushed against their line, saw more of the enemy slain than running away.
38.