The longest epic poet of Ancient Rome, Silius Italicus (T. Catius, 25–101 AD), was consul in 68 and governor of the province of Asia in 69. After this tenure, he lived on his estates as a literary figure and collector. He held the works of Cicero in high esteem, owning Cicero's Tusculum tomb, and those of Virgil, whose tomb in Naples he also owned and near which he lived. His epic poem "Punica," in seventeen books, refers to the Second Punic War (218–202 BC) and is primarily based on historical elements from Livy's account. It is designed as a contrast between two great nations (and their supportive gods), with heroes the two great Scipio and Hannibal. The poem is written in pure Latin and smooth poetry, full of echoes of Virgil and other poets. It skillfully exploits all the devices and techniques of traditional Latin epic poetry. The Loeb Classical Library edition of Silius Italicus is in two volumes.