Page "Battle of Actium" Paragraph 10

After Octavian's proposals for a conference with Antony had been scornfully rejected, both sides prepared for the final struggle next year.

The early months passed without notable event, beyond some successes of Agrippa on the coasts of Greece, meant to divert Antony's attention.

It was not until the latter part of August that troops were brought by land into the neighbourhood of Antony's camp on the north side of the strait.

Still Antony could not be tempted out.

It would take some months for his full strength to arrive from the various places in which his allies or his ships had wintered.

But during these months not only was Agrippa continuing his descent upon Greek towns and coasts, but in various cavalry skirmishes, Octavian had so far prevailed that Antony abandoned the north side of the strait and confined his soldiers to the southern camp.

Cleopatra now earnestly advised that garrisons should be put into strong towns, and that the main fleet should return to Alexandria.

The large contingent furnished by Egypt gave her advice as much weight as her personal influence over Antony ; and it appears that this movement was really resolved upon.