5.
Caesar, when informed of these matters, fearing the
fickle disposition of the Gauls, who are easily
prompted to take up resolutions, and much addicted to change, considered that
nothing was to be intrusted to them; for it is the custom of that people to
compel travelers to stop, even against their inclination, and inquire what they
may have heard, or may know, respecting any matter; and in towns the common
people throng around merchants and force them to state from what countries they
come, and what affairs they know of there. They often engage in resolutions
concerning the most important matters, induced by these reports and stories
alone; of which they must necessarily instantly repent, since they yield to mere
unauthorized reports; and since most people give to their questions answers
framed agreeably to their wishes.
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