1This was the state of Britain, these the fortunes of war, that Agricola found when he crossed over at midsummer, when the soldiers, as if campaigning were over, were turning to ease, and the enemy to their opportunity. 2The state of the Ordovices, shortly before his arrival, had almost wiped out a squadron of cavalry stationed in their territory, and the province had been roused by this beginning. 3And those who wanted war approved the example and waited to see the temper of the new governor, when Agricola, although the summer was over, the units were scattered through the province and the soldiers had counted on that year's rest, all of which were obstacles and hindrances to one about to begin a war, and although most thought it better to keep watch on the suspect areas, decided to go and meet the danger; 3and having gathered detachments of the legions and a moderate force of auxiliaries, since the Ordovices did not dare to come down into the plain, he led his line up the hill, himself in front of the column, so that the others might have equal courage from sharing a like danger.
4And when almost the whole tribe had been cut down, knowing well that he must follow up his reputation and that, as the first actions turned out, so would the rest be terrified, he set his mind on bringing into subjection the island of Mona, from whose occupation, as I mentioned above, Paulinus had been recalled by the rebellion of all Britain. 5But, as usual with sudden plans, there were no ships: the general's resourcefulness and resolve carried his men across. 5Having laid aside all baggage, he sent in the pick of the auxiliaries, who knew the shallows and had their native skill in swimming, by which they control themselves, their arms and their horses at once, so suddenly that the astonished enemy, who were expecting a fleet, ships, the sea, believed that nothing was difficult or invincible to men who came to war like this.
6So, when peace had been sought and the island surrendered, Agricola was regarded as famous and great, since on entering his province, a time which others spend in display and in courting attentions, he had chosen toil and danger. 7Nor did Agricola use his success for vanity; he did not call it a campaign or a victory to have held down the conquered; 7he did not even announce his achievements with laurelled dispatches, but by the very concealment of his fame he increased his fame, as men reckoned with what great hope for the future he had kept silent about such great deeds.