This seemed too much for his present youth, especially since the disposition of the people toward him was not clear as yet and many enemies were at hand.The suggestion was not adopted.Avengers were expected to appear from among those who in his lifetime had come upon good fortune at his hands or who had received from him power, riches,and valuable gifts, such as they had not hoped for even in dreams.Octavius received advice of various sorts form different people, as is always the case in times when a situation is obscure and unsettled, but he determined to postpone decision in the whole matter until he could see those of his friends who were preeminently mature and wise and secure the aid of their counsel also.
He decided therefore to refrain from action, but to go to Rome, and having first arrived in Italy, to find out what had taken place after Caesar's murder, and to take counsel with the people there concerning the entire affair.His retinue then began preparations for the voyage. Alexander, pleading his age and ill health, returned to his home at Pergamum. The inhabitants of Apollonia came in multitudes and for some time affectionately begged Octavius to stay with them, saying that they would put the city to any use that he wished, out of good will toward him and reverence for the deceased. they thought that it would be better for him to await developments in a friendly city, since so many enemies were abroad.
However, since he desired to participate in whatever was done, and to avail himself of any opportunity for action, he did not change his decision, but said that he must set sail.Then he praised the Apollonians, and afterward when he became master of Rome he conferred on them immunity and some other not inconsiderable favors, and made it one of the most fortunate cities. All the people escorted him at his departure, admiring his restraint and wisdom that he had revealed in his sojourn there; and at the same time the were sorry for his lot.There came to him from the army not a few from the cavalry and infantry, both tribunes and centurions, and many others for the sake of serving him, but some for their own gain.