 Maximian traveled to Gaul , engaging the Bagaudae late in the summer of 285 . Details of the campaign are sparse and provide no tactical detail : the historical sources dwell only on Maximian 's virtues and victories . The panegyric to Maximian in 289 records that the rebels were defeated with a blend of harshness and leniency . As the campaign was against the Empire 's own citizens , and therefore distasteful , it went unrecorded in titles and official triumphs . Indeed , Maximian 's panegyrist declares : " I pass quickly over this episode , for I see in your magnanimity you would rather forget this victory than celebrate it . " By the end of the year , the revolt had significantly abated , and Maximian moved the bulk of his forces to the Rhine frontier , heralding a period of stability . 
