[6] [obsolete source] Some years later Theodosius I, then emperor, appointed Gildo governor of the province, hoping that this powerful and apparently loyal provincial would succeed in firmly attaching his subjects to the authority of Rome, by the influence of his wealthy clan.
Instead, however, Gildo proved as execrable a tyrant as his brother, and ruled the province with the iron hand of a despot during twelve long years, in which the Roman government could not muster the will or moral courage to bring him to account.
Since the latter was not likely to continue tolerating Gildo's abuse, the latter decided to deliver his allegiance to the eastern empire of Arcadius, who, under the influence of his favorite Eutropius, was hostile to Stilicho, and eager to detract from his possessions.
[9] [obsolete source] Stilicho, who was in search of an able subordinate to lead the expedition to recover Africa from the treacherous Gildo, immediately enrolled Mascezel into his service, entrusting him with the command of the 5,000 Roman legionnaires allocated to put down the revolt.
[10] His superior capability, according to a contemporary panegyrist (Claudian),[11] combined with the discipline of the Roman soldiery, secured Mascezel a prompt and easy victory.