Jigerta and the Romans

In 109 BC, the Numidians took a page from old Fabius the Delaire and embarked on a war of attrition with the Romans. The Roman armies were able to do little against Jigerta, suspiciously little. Marius watched with frustration equaling that of the Roman people. He thought Mattelis far too cautious, and began to get the idea that he could do a better job. To curry favor with the troops, he relaxed discipline and camp; if he were in charge this war would be over in a week.