Titus Livius (Livy), The History of Rome, Book 24
Frank Gardener Moore, Professor Emeritus in Columbia University, Ed.

38. Returning from that conference to the citadel, he called his men together and said: “I believe you have heard, soldiers, how in these days Roman garrisons have been beset and overwhelmed by Sicilians. [2] Such treachery you have escaped, thanks first to the favour of the gods, and then to your own courage, by standing guard day and night [p. 297]under arms. Would that the remaining time¹ could be passed without either suffering or committing atrocities! In covert trickery the method of defence is that which we have so far employed. [3] Since the trick does not succeed, they demand back the keys of the gates openly and above board. And the moment we surrender them, Henna will be in the hands of the Carthaginians, and we shall be more cruelly slaughtered here than was the garrison slain at Murgantia. [4] With difficulty I have gained for deliberation one night in which to inform you of the impending danger. At daybreak they are to hold an assembly for the purpose of accusing me and arousing the people against you. [5] And so tomorrow Henna will be deluged either with your blood or with that of the Hennensians. If forestalled, you will have no hope, nor any danger if you forestall them. Who first draws the sword will have the victory. Therefore, alert and armed, you will all await the signal. [6] I shall be in the assembly, and I will kill time in speaking and disputing, until everything is ready. [7] When I give the signal with my toga, then do you from all sides raise a shout, attack the crowd, and strike down everyone with the sword; and see to it that no one survives whose violence or treachery can be feared. [8] Mother Ceres and Proserpina, and all the other gods, above and below, who inhabit this city, these hallowed lakes and groves, I pray that ye attend us with your favour and support, if so be that we are taking this step for the purpose of guarding against treachery, not of practising it. [9] I should exhort you, soldiers, at greater length if your battle were to be with armed men. Unarmed and off their guard, you will massacre them to your hearts' content. [p. 299]And the consul's camp is near; I tell you this that² you may have no possible fear from Himilco and the Carthaginians.”