Sulla’s commanders were concerned by the state of the troops after their rapid overnight march as they attempted to catch up with the Samnites. The officers pointed out that they were not up against the generally demoralized and disorganized soldiers of Carbo or Marius, but Samnites and Lucanians – highly motivated, experienced and warlike opponents. They urged Sulla to wait, at least overnight. But Sulla had faith in Fortuna, and only allowed his men a few hours to rest and take a meal. Then he organized his battle lines, and at four o’clock that November afternoon, with the sun already
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