233. Pretended Victory of Alexander Severus More probable Account of the War 240. Character and Maxims of Artaxerxes Military Power of the Perfians Their Cavalry excellent ib. The Emperors Decius, Gallus, Emilianus, Valerian, and ib. Agreeable, but uncertain, Hypothefis concerning acknowledged Emperor 253. Victory and Revolt of Æmilianus Valerian revenges the Death of Gallus, and is ib. Valerian marches into the Eaft 260. Is defeated and taken Prifoner by Sapor King of Sapor overruns Syria, Cilicia, and Cappadocia ib. THE HISTORY OF THE DECLINE AND FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE. CHAP. I. The Extent and Military Force of the Empire in the Age of the Antonines. the fecond century of the Christian Æra, CHA P. the Empire of Rome comprehended the I. fairest part of the earth, and the most civilized Introduc portion of mankind. The frontiers of that tion. extenfive monarchy were guarded by ancient renown and disciplined valour. The gentle, but powerful influence of laws and manners had gradually cemented the union of the provinces. Their peaceful inhabitants enjoyed and abused the advantages of wealth and luxury. The image of a free conftitution was preferved with decent reverence: the Roman fenate appeared to poffefs the fovereign authority, and devolved on the emperors all the executive powers of government. During a happy period of more than A. D. 98 four VOL. I. B -180. |