…Pompey decides to land at Pelusium, a city on the northeast frontier of Egypt, and seek the assistance of Ptolemy, his former client.

Cleopatra, expelled by the King and his clique earlier in the year, had meanwhile quickly raised an Arab army and is besieging Pelusium.

As the opposing forces prepare for war, Pompey appears at Pelusium seeking refuge.

The King marches down to the coast, ostensibly to welcome him, but he and his counselors have chosen not to risk offending the victorious Caesar.

Pompey's small squadron lies offshore while Pompey, bidding farewell to his wife, Cornelia, complies with an insidious invitation to enter, with several companions, a small boat sent to bring him to land.

As he prepares to step ashore on September 28, 48, he is treacherously struck down and killed by an officer of the King.