Hamilcar, also known as Phameas, the Carthaginian general, was in the prime of life, of great personal vigour, and what is most important in a soldier, a good and bold rider.
Others from extreme jealousy of Scipio tried to belittle his achievements.
Seeing the strength of the outposts, Phameas, who was by no means timid, used to avoid any engagement with Scipio, and once when he approached the Roman reserve force he got under shelter of a steep ridge and halted there for a considerable time.
The Roman maniples fled to the top of a hill, and when every one had given his advice, Scipio said,
"When men are consulting about a fresh emergency they must rather take care to avoid disaster than scheme how to damage the enemy."
It should not be a matter of surprise to anyone if I display particular interest in Scipio and report all his utterances at length.
Walbank Commentary