REGULUS, THE ROMAN.

Rodney and Otamatea Times, Waitemata and Kaipara Gazette, 17 February 1915, Page 3

REGULUS, THE ROMAN.

The Roman Army was once making war against the city of Carthage, and a brave Roman General named Regulus was taken prisoner. He was kept shut up for five long years, and the war still went on.

The people of Carthage at last grew tired of the war ana sent messengers to Rome to try to arrange terms for peace. They sent Regulus home to Rome with their messengers, but first made him promise to come back to prison if he could not arrange for the war to end.

Although Regulus wanted very much to return to his family, and dearly as he loved his freedom, yet he loved his country more. He knew the people of Carthage could not continue to fight much longer, and therefore it would not be best for the Romans to make peace. He decided to tell his friends not to listen to the messengers.

When the party reached the gates of Rome, Regulus would not go into the city, nor see his family, in case they should make him change his mind. He sent for the Senate to come outside the city and hear the ■ message.

The Romans wanted to end the war for the sake of Regulus, but he said: "Do not think of me. I gave my promise to go back, and I will not break my word. It matters little what becomes of me, but it does matter what happens to the city. Do what is best for Rome—do not make peace."

After a time the Senate yielded. They sent word back that they would not cease fighting till Carthage was

destroyed,

The people of Carthage were so angry with Regulus when they heard what he had done that they put him to a cruel death. The brave General lost his life for his country, but he kept his word.