Herodotus - The Histories.pdf

162 V Herodotus
Croesus thought the Lydians would even so be
better off than if they were sold for slaves, and
therefore gave the above advice to Cyrus, knowing
that, unless he brought forward some notable
suggestion, he would not be able to persuade him
to alter his mind. He was likewise afraid lest, after
escaping the danger which now pressed, the
Lydians at some future time might revolt from the
Persians and so bring themselves to ruin. The
advice pleased Cyrus, who consented to forego
his anger and do as Croesus had said. Thereupon
he summoned to his presence a certain Mede,
Mazares by name, and charged him to issue
orders to the Lydians in accordance with the
terms of Croesus’ discourse. Further, he commanded
him to sell for slaves all who had joined
the Lydians in their attack upon Sardis, and above
aught else to be sure that he brought Pactyas with
him alive on his return. Having given these orders
Cyrus continued his journey towards the Persian
territory.
Pactyas, when news came of the near approach of
the army sent against him, fled in terror to Cyme.