5.28

Arpineius and Junius, report to the legates (those things), which they have heard. Those men, disturbed by the sudden affair, although these things were said  by an enemy, nevertheless were reckoning that [these things were] not to be disregarded and were especially moved by this thing, because it was hardly to be believed that the undistinguished and weak state of the Eburones dared to make war with the Roman people of their own accord. Therefore they report the matter to the council and a great dispute arises between them.

Lucius Aurunculeius [Cotta] and several military tribunes and the centurions of the first rank were reckoning that nothing should be done rashly and [they should not depart] from the winter quarters without Caesar’s orders: they were explaining that even forces of the Germans as great as you wish might be sustained by fortified winter camps: the thing was for proof, because they had very bravely withstood the first attack of the enemy with many wounds furthermore having been inflicted: that (they) were not pressed by grain supply; that meanwhile help would assemble from both the nearest winter camp and from Caesar: finally what could be more inconstant or more shameful, than to adopt a plan on the authority of an enemy regarding the highest matters?