CHAP. VII.
_____of sixty-two thousand volumes, attested the variety of his inclinations ; and from the productions which he left behind him, it appears that the former as well as the Jatter were designed for use rather than for ostentation[1]. The Roman people acknowledged in the features of the younger Gordian the resemblance of Scipio Africanus, recollected with pleasure that his mother was the granddaughter of Antoninus Pius, and rested the public hope on those latent virtues which had hitherto, as they fondly imagined, lain concealed in the luxurious indolence of a private life.
They solicit the confirmation of their authority.As soon as the Gordians had appeased the first tumult of a popular election, they removed their court to Carthage. They were received with the acclamations of the Africans, who honoured their virtues, and who, since the visit of Hadrian, had never beheld the majesty of a Roman emperor. But these vain acclamations neither strengthened nor confirmed the title of the Gordians. They were induced by principle, as well as interest, to solicit the approbation of the senate; and a deputation of the noblest provincials was sent, without delay, to Rome, to relate and justify the conduct of their countrymen, who, having long suffered with patience, were at length resolved to act with vigour. The letters of the new princes were modest and respectful, excusing the necessity which had obliged them to accept the imperial title, but submitting their election and their fate to the supreme judgement of the senate[2].
The senate ratifies the election of the Gordians;The inclinations of the senate were neither doubtful nor divided. The birth and noble alhances of the Gordians had intimately connected them with the most illustrious houses of Rome. Their fortune had created many dependents in that assembly ; their merit had acquired many friends. Their mild administration opened the flattering prospect of the restoration, not
