(letter from Appius Barbatus, encamped in Samnium en route to Brindisium)

Word has reached me here through messengers from Tarentum of a great battle and victory for Rome in the Carthaginian lands. I wish to send my hearty congratulations to the First Consul, and hope for his continued success on this front. The enemies of Rome will tremble to hear the footsteps of our Legions approaching!