Meanwhile Corbulo kept his
legions within the camp till spring weather was fairly established, and
having stationed his auxiliary infantry at suitable points, he directed them
not to begin an engagement. The charge of these defensive positions he
entrusted to Paccius Orfitus, who had held the post of a first-rank
centurion. Though this officer
had reported that the barbarians were
heedless, and that an opportunity for success presented itself, he was
instructed to keep within his entrenchments and to wait for a stronger
force. But he broke the order, and on the arrival of a few cavalry squadrons
from the nearest forts, who in their inexperience insisted on fighting, he
engaged the enemy and was routed. Panic-stricken by his disaster, those who
ought to have given him support returned in precipitate flight to their
respective encampments. Corbulo heard of this with displeasure; he sharply
censured Paccius, the officers and soldiers, and ordered them to have their
quarters outside the lines. There they were kept in disgrace, and were
released only on the intercession of the whole army.
