21. Upon Trajan's return, after the usual triumphs and rejoicings, he was surprised with an account that the Da'cians had renewed hostilities. Deceb'alus, their king, was a second time adjudged an enemy to the Roman state, and Tra'jan again entered his dominions. 22. In order to be enabled to invade the enemy's territories at pleasure, he undertook a most stupendous work, which was no less than building a bridge across the Dan'ube. 23. This amazing structure, which was built over a deep, broad, and rapid river, consisted of more than twenty-two arches; the ruins, which remain to this day, show modern architects how far they were surpassed by the ancients, both in the greatness and boldness of their designs. 24. Upon finishing this work, Tra'jan continued the war with great vigour, sharing with the meanest of his soldiers the fatigues of the campaign, and continually encouraging them to their duty by his own example. 25. By these means, notwithstanding the country was spacious and uncultivated, and the inhabitants brave and hardy, he subdued the whole, and added the kingdom of Da'cia as a province to the Roman empire. Deceb'alus made some attempts to escape; but being surrounded, he slew himself. 26. These successes seemed to advance the empire to a greater degree of splendor than it had hitherto acquired. Ambassadors came from the interior parts of India, to congratulate Trajan on his successes, and solicit his friendship. On his return, he entered Rome in triumph, and the rejoicings for his victories lasted a hundred and twenty days. 27. Having given peace and prosperity to the empire, he was loved, honoured, and almost adored. He adorned the city with public buildings; he freed it from such men as lived by their vices; he entertained persons of merit with familiarity; and so little did he fear his enemies, that he could scarcely be induced to suppose he had any. _Questions for Examination_. 1. How was the account of Domitian's death received? 2. Was he regretted by any description of his subjects? 3. What consequences ensued from this regret? 4. Who was Cocceius Nerva? 5. Was his government acceptable to the people? 6. What afforded a presage of his future mild administration? 7. Did he keep this oath inviolate? 8. Was Nerva avaricious? 9. Was his reign free from disturbances? 10. Were all conspiracies repressed from this time? 11. Did Nerva exert himself to quell it? 12. Were his endeavours successful? 13. What important consequences ensued from these commotions? 14. What occasioned his death? 15. What was his character? 16. How did Trajan act on his accession, and what advice did he receive? 17. What sentiments did his subjects entertain of their new emperor? 18. With whom did he commence hostilities? 19. What was the event of the campaign? 20. What was the consequence of this victory? 21. Did peace continue long? 22. What great undertaking did he accomplish in this expedition? 23. Was it a difficult work?