This year the Carth aginians conveyed to Rome the first instalment of the war indemnity. It was paid in silver and the quaestors reported that it was not up to standard value, and on assaying it found that one-fourth was alloy. The Carthaginians made up the deficiency by borrowing money in Rome. y petitioned the senate to allow their hostages to be restored, a hundred were given back to them. HoPes were held out of the restoration of the remainder if Carthage was true to her obligations. A further request which they put forward was that the hostages who were still detained might be moved uncomfortable, and placed elsewhere. It was agreed that they should be removed to Signia and Ferentinum. A deputation from Gades came with a request that no Drefect might be sent there,2 as this would be in contravention of the -agreement made with L. 11Zarcius Septimus when they placed themselves under the protection of Rome.Then request was granted. Delegates also came from Narnia who stated that their colony was short of its proper number and that some of inferior status had found their way amongst them and were giving themselves out to be colonists. The consul L. Cornelius was instructed to appoint three commissioners to deal with the case. Those appointed were the two both of whom had the cognomen of Lentulus. The colonists at Cosa also requested of their number, but their request was refused.