In the fourth century B.C., while Rome was attacking the city of Veii, they heard 12 Etruscan armies were coming, not only to help the Veientians but to destroy Rome as well.
For such an emergency the Romans appointed Camillus as dictator.
Camillus had a checkered career, running in and out of public favor. At first, as dictator, Camillus defeated the Veientians with a trick. He had a tunnel dug under their city. When the Romans emerged suddenly during a sacrifice at the temple of Juno, the Veientians were taken by surprise. It was easy for the Romans to take the city.
As was customary, the soldiers divided the riches of the conquered city, but Camillus was accused of taking more than his fair share. Instead of facing trial, he went into self-imposed exile. Eventually, however, the Romans realized they needed Camillus back: the Senate recalled Camillus to defeat Brennus and the Gauls.
Based on Haaren's Famous Men of Rome.
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