26. Crassus was the richest man in Rome, and next to Pompey, possessed the greatest authority; his party in the senate was even greater than that of his rival, and the envy raised against him was less. He and Pompey had long been disunited by an opposition of interests and of characters; however, it was from a continuance of their mutual jealousies that the state was in some measure to expect its future safety. 27. It was in this situation of things that Julius Caesar, who had lately gone, as praetor, into Spain, and had returned with great riches and glory, resolved to convert their mutual jealousy to his own advantage. 28. This celebrated man was descended from popular and illustrious ancestors. He warmly espoused the side of the people, and shortly after the death of Sylla, procured the recall of those whom Sylla had banished. He had all along declared for the populace against the senate, and became their most favourite magistrate. 29. This consummate statesman began by offering his services to Pompey, promising to assist him in getting all his acts passed, notwithstanding the senate's opposition. Pompey, pleased at the acquisition of a person of so much merit, readily granted him his confidence and protection. 30. He next applied to Crassus, who, from former connections, was disposed to become still more nearly his friend. 31. At length, finding them not averse to an union of interests, he took an opportunity of bringing them together; and, remonstrating with them on the advantages as well as the necessity of a reconciliation, he had art enough to persuade them to forget former animosities. 32. A combination was thus formed, by which they agreed that nothing should be done in the commonwealth without their mutual concurrence and approbation. This was called the first Trium'virate, by which we find the constitution weakened by a new interest which had not hitherto taken place, very different from that of the senate or the people, and yet dependent on both. _Questions for Examination_. 1. What followed on the death of Sylla? 2. What first discovered their mutual jealousy? 3. What was the next trial between them? 4. Under what pretences did they hide their real views? 5. What farther raised the reputation of Pompey? 6. What means were had recourse to for this purpose? 7, 8. What was the state of the war in Asia? 9. What were the consequences of Pompey's victories? 10. Who was the author, and what was the object of this conspiracy? 11. What was the character of Catiline? 12. What occasioned this conspiracy? 13. How was it to be carried into execution? 14. What was the chief obstacle to its accomplishment, and how was this obstacle to be removed? 15. Was Cicero informed of their proceedings? 16. What precautions did he take in consequence? 17. What was the first step taken? 18. What was the conduct of Catiline on this occasion? 19. Did he continue in Rome? 20. Did the other conspirators escape?