a kind of soldiers or archers under the western empire.

The first time we read of these officers is in the reign of the emperor Adrian, who made use of them to inform himself of whatever passed. They did not make any particular corps distinct from the rest of the forces, but there was a certain number of them in each legion. It is supposed, that they were at first a number of young persons, disposed by Augustus throughout the provinces, particularly on all the grand roads, to acquaint the emperor, with all expedition, of every thing that happened.

Afterwards they were incorporated into the troops themselves, where they still retained their ancient name. As their principal office was the giving intelligence, they were often joined with the curioli, with whom they agreed in this part of their office.

Their name of frumentarius is derived from their being also a sort of purveyors to the armies, cities, &c., collecting all the corn from the several provinces to furnish the commonwealth.