1At the same time there was fierce fighting at Zama. 1Wherever each lieutenant or tribune was in command, there they strove most fiercely, and no one placed his hope in another more than in himself; 1and the townspeople acted with equal vigour: they fought back or made ready everywhere, more eager to wound each other than to protect themselves; shouting mixed with exhortation, rejoicing and groaning, and likewise the clash of arms rose to the sky, and missiles flew on both sides. 3But those who were defending the walls, whenever the enemy had relaxed the attack even a little, intently watched the cavalry battle. 4You could have seen them now joyful, now fearful, according to how Jugurtha's fortunes went; 4and, as if they could be heard or seen by their own side, some gave warnings, others encouragement, or signalled with their hands or strained with their bodies, and moved them this way and that as if dodging or hurling missiles.
5When Marius learned of this — for he was in command in that sector —, he deliberately acted less vigorously and pretended to have no confidence in the undertaking, allowing the Numidians to watch the king's battle undisturbed. 6So, while they were absorbed in the struggle of their own side, he suddenly attacked with great force. 6And the soldiers, climbing the ladders, had almost reached the top when the townspeople ran together; 6they hurled stones, fire and other missiles besides. 7Our men at first held out; 7then, when one ladder after another was shattered, those who had been standing on them were dashed down, and the rest withdrew as best they could, a few unhurt, most of them disabled by wounds.
8At last night broke off the battle on both sides.