Regulus
MARCUS ATTILIUS, a Roman general, celebrated for his patriotism and devotion in the service of his country. Made consul a second time about 256 B. c., with his colleague, Manlius Vulso, he commanded in the first war against Carthage. Taken prisoner by the Carthaginians, he was sent to Rome with an embassy, that peace might be procured, and bound himself, by an oath, to return if the terms were rejected.
He considered it his duty to advise the continuance of the war; which, being determined on, no entreaties could prevent him from fulfilling his solemn engagement; and the Carthaginians, on his return, put him to a cruel death.