B 866,686
th

20837
ARTES
SCIENTIA
VERITAS
LIBRARY
OF THE
| UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
BUSUNUN
TUEDOS
v
IST.QUAERIS-PENINSULAM AMOENAS
CIRCUMSPICE
THE
HISTORICAL LIBRARY
OF
DIODORUS THE SICILIAN,
IN
FIFTEEN BOOKS.
TO WHICH ARE ADDED
THE FRAGMENTS OF DIODORUS,
AND
Those published by H. Valesius, I. Rhodomannus, and F. Ursinus,
TRANSLATED BY
G. BOOTH, ESQ.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
VOL. II.
LONDON:
Printed by W, M'Dowall, Pemberton Row, Gough Square, Fleet Street,
FOR J. DAVIS, MILITARY CHRONICLE OFFICE, 14, CHARLOTTE STREET,
BLOOMSBURY; AND TO BÈ HAD OF THE BOOKSELLERS.
1814.
2
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XV.
PREFACE.
HAVING, throughout the whole work, used the common and ac-
customed liberty of an historian, we have both praised the good, and
condemned the bad, as they have fallen in our way, to the end that
those whose genius and inclination prompts them to virtue may be
the more encouraged to noble actions, in hopes of having the glory
of their names continued to all succeeding generations; and, on the
other hand, that they who are bent to wickedness may be curbed and
restrained from the heat, at least, of their impiety, by those marks of
dishonour and disgrace fixed upon them.
Since, therefore, we have brought down our history to the times
wherein the Lacedæmonians fell by the sudden and unexpected
slaughter at Leuctra, and the like again not long after at Mantinea,
whereby they lost the sovereignty of Greece, we judge it part of our
province to keep close to the former course and method of writing,
and therefore by the way in the first place to blame and reprehend
the Lacedæmonians, who justly deserve it: for who cannot but judge
them worthy of censure, and that justly, who, having a well-settled
empire and government descended to them from their ancestors, and
by their valour supported and defended for the space of above five
hundred years, should now in a moment ruin it by their own folly
and imprudence? For they that were before them preserved the
grandeur and glory of their conquests by their lenity and tenderness
towards their subjects; but these, their posterity, by their cruelty to
their confederates, and pride and ambition in making war upon the
Grecians, most deservedly lost all by their rashness and inconside-
rateness. For, those that hated them for the injuries they had be-
VOL. 2. No. 40.
B
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Book XV
fore suffered, greedily took the advantage, now they were low, to re-
venge themselves on them as their enemies. And they, whose fore-
fathers were never before conquered, were so much the more despised,
by how much they deserved the greater contempt, who, by their vices,
had stained the virtue and glory of their ancestors.
The Thebans, therefore, (who for many ages before were forced
to stoop to them as their superiors), having now (beyond all men's
expectations) conquered the Lacedæmonians, were made chief com-
mauders of Greece: but the Lacedæmonians, after they had once
lost their hold, could never after recover their antient glory and
dignity. But, enough of this; we shall now return to the course of
our history,
The preceding book, the fourteenth in order, ends with the ruin
of Rhegium by Dionysius, and the taking of Rome by the Gauls,
which happened the year next before the expedition of the Persians
into Cyprus, against Evagoras. We shall here begin this book with
that war, and end it with the year next preceding the reign of Philip,
the son of Amyotas.
.
CHAP. I.
Artaxerxes's expedition against Evagoras, in Cyprus. The actions
there at sea and land. The Lacedæmonians begin new quarrels
in Greece: as first with Mantinea. Dionysius gives himself to
poetry. Peace concluded with Evagoras by Orontas the Persian
general. Teribazus brought to his trial. Judgment upon cor-
rupt judges. Teribazus acquitted.
IN Athens, Mystichides was archon; and at Rome, three tribunes
were invested with consular authority, Marcus Furius, Caius, and
Æmilius, when Artaxerxes, king of Persia, began his expedition a-
gainst Evagoras, king of Cyprus. The king had spent much time in
preparation for the war, and raised a great number of forces both
for sea and land from all parts: for his land-army consisted of three
hundred thousand horse and foot; and he equipped a fleet of above
Chap. 1.
3
DIODORUS SICULUS.
three hundred gallies. Orontas was made general of the land-army,
and Teribazus, a man highly honoured among the Persians, admiral
of the fleet. These headed their armies at Phocea and Cumà,
and descended to Cilicia, and from thence passed over to Cyprus,
where they very vigorously bestirred themselves for the carrying on
of the war.
In the mean time Evagoras entered into a league with Acoris,
king of Egypt, who supplied him with a great number of men, being
himself then at war with the Persians. He was also privately furnished
with money by Hecatomnus, the governor of Caria, to help him to
hire foreigners. And several other enemies of Persia, some secretly,
others openly, confederated with him in the war. He had, likewise,
many cities of Cyprus under bis command, with whom joined Tyre
in Phænicia, and other places Moreover, he had a navy of ninety
sail, of which twenty were from Tyre, and the rest of Cyprus. His
land-army consisted of six thousand of his own subjects, but those
from his confederates were many more: besides, being richly sup-
plied by them with money, he hired abundance of mercenaries.
And the king of Arabia, and other princes, who were jealous of
the king of Persia, sent him great forces. Being thus supported, he
applied himself to the war with great courage and resolution.
Aud, in the first place, with his privateers (of which he had many)
he intercepted the enemy's transport-ships, laden with victuals and
provisions, and sunk some, disabled others, and took several besides;
so that there began to be great scarcity and want of corn in the Per-
sian camp, in regard the merchants durst not sail to Cyprus, where
that great army and body of men were got together. And this oc-
casioned a great mutiny in the army; for the mercenaries, for want
of bread, knocked some of their officers on the head, and filled the
camp with mutiny and tumult to such a degree, that the Persian
colonels, and admiral of the fleet, called Gaos, could scarcely quell it.
The fleet, therefore, was sent to Cilicia for provisions, which returned
with a great quantity of corn from thence, by which the camp was
a
ever after plentifully supplied. But, as to Evagoras, Acoris sent to
him, out of Egypt, money, corn, and all other things necessáry, suffi-
cient for his occasions.
Evagoras, finding that his navy was far too weak for the enemy,
furnished out threescore ships more, and sent for fifty besides from
Acoris, so that now he had a fleet of two hundred sail. And, having
his navy thus bravely furnished and equipped ready for a battle (af-
ter he had some time trained and exercised his men, not without
terror to his enensies) he prepared for a fight at sea. But it hap-
pened that, as the king's fleet passed by towards Citium, falling sud-
4
Book XI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
denly upon them, in an orderly line of battle, he gained by far the
advantage, fighting in good order with ships in confusion and sepa-
rated, (and with premeditation engaging with men surprised and
taken at unawares), he presently, at the first onset, routed them :
for, charging in a body together, upon ships dispersed and in confu-
sion, they sunk and took several of them. But afterwards, when the
Persian admiral and other officers gathered up their spirits, they
bravely received the enemy's charge, so that the engagement grew
very sharp, in which Evagoras at the beginning had the better; but
Gaos with great courage bearing in upon him with his whole fleet,
the Evagoreans fled, with the loss of many of their gallies.
The Persians, having gained this victory, mustered both their land
and sea-forces at Citium, where, furnishing themselves with all things
necessary, ihey weut jointly to besiege Salamis, and blocked it up
both by sea and land. But Teribazus, after the sea-fight, put over
to Cilicia, and went to the king to bring him the news of the victory,
from whom he brought back two thousand talents for the carrying on
of the war.
Evagoras, before the fight at sea, had routed part of the enemy's
army at land, which much encouraged him to further attempts; but,
after his sad misfortune at sea, and that thereupon he was straitly
besieged, his spirits grew very low. However, conceiving it ne-
cessary to continue the war, he put the supreme power into the
bands of his son Pythagoras, and left him to defend the city, and
he himself privately in the night, undiscerned by the enemy, with
ten gallies departed from Salamis, and sailed into Egypt, where,
having audience of the king, he endeavoured to persuade him to
make war upon the king of Persia with all the power he had.
While these things were on foot in Asia, the Lacedæmonians
(without any regard to the league made) decreed to march with an
army against Mantinea, for the reasons following. There was now
peace all over Greece, by the negotiation of Antalcidas, by virtue
whereof all the cities were freed from garrisons, and governed ac-
cording to their own laws. But the Spartans (naturally ambitious,
and a long time contriving how to begin a war) looked upon the peace
as a heavy burden, and (coveting to gain their antient dominion) be-
gan to endeavour innovations. To this end, by their tools and
creatures, they stirred up seditions in the cities, and thence took oc-
casion to disturb the present state of affairs. For they who were
freed, and set at liberty to govern according to the laws of their own
country, called them to an account who acted as magistrates under
the Lacedæmonians, and, being somewhat severe and sharp, (through
the fresh resentment of the late injuries suffered), they banished
Chap. 1.
5
DIODORUS SICU LUS.
many: upon this, the Lacedæmonians protected those who were de-
pressed by the contrary faction, and restored them by force of arms,
and by that means first imposed upon the weaker cities, and brought
them into slavery; but afterwards they gave laws to cities and places
of great account, not having kept the league two years together. And
now, because Mantinea was near to them, and full of valiant men, and
by the peace grown very rich, they were jealous of it, and resolved to
bring down the lordly spirits of those inhabitants: in the first place,
therefore, they sent ambassadors to them, to require them to demolish
their walls, and to settle themselves again in those five villages from
whence they antiently removed to Mantinea; but their demands be-
ing slighted, they forthwith marched thither with their forces, and
besieged the city.
Upon this, the Mantineans sent ambassadors to Athens for aid,
but the Athenians would by no means do any thing that might be
construed a breach of the public league; so that they valiantly
defended the place, and opposed the enemy with their own forces.
And thus Greece now began again to be embroiled in new wars.
In Sicily, Dionysius, the tyrant of Syracuse, being freed from the
war with the Carthaginians, reigned a long time in peace and pros-
perity, and with great intention of mind employed himself in writing
of verses, and sent for poets far and near, whom he had in high es-
teem, and made his familiars, to whose judgment and opinions he
referred the censure of his poems. Being flattered by these in pane-
gyrics of praise, for their own interest, he grew highly conceited of
himself, and was prouder of his poems than of his conquests. Phi-
loxenus, a composer of dithyrambics, and one familiar with him, a
very excellent poet of his kind, when at a feast some of the foolish
verses of the tyrant were recited, he was asked how he approved of
them, who, answering something too freely and plainly, incurred the
tyrant's displeasure; who, looking upon himself abused, (through
envy), commanded his guard to carry him away to work as a slave in
the quarries. But the next day, through the mediation of friends, he
was reconciled to him: and afterwards, at a feast to which he had
again invited the same persons, when he was in his cups, he highly
extolled his own poems; and singing some of them, (which he thought
none could excel), he asked what he thought of those? To which he
answered not a word, but called for Dionysius's guards, and wished
them to carry him away to the quarries. Dionysius at that time, for
the jest's sake, put it off with a laugh, thereby (as he thought)
taking off the edge of the reproof. But, not long after, when both
Dionysius and the rest of the poets wished him to forbear that un-

20037
SCIENTIA
ARTES
VERITAS
LIBRARY
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
PLURIBUS UNE
FUEGO
SST QUAERIS-PENINSULAM AMOE NAME
CIRCUMSPICE
THE
fe
HISTORICAL LIBRARY
OF
DIODORUS THE SICILIAN,
IN
FIFTEEN BOOKS.
TO WHICH ARE ADDED
THE FRAGMENTS OF DIODORUS,
AND
Those published by H. Valesius, I. Rhodomannus, and F. Ursinus,
TRANSLATED BY
G. BOOTH, ESQ.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
VOL, II.
LONDON:
Printed by W. M'Dowall, Pemberton Row, Gough Square, Fleet Street,
FOR J. DAVIS, MILITARY CHRONICLE OFFICE, 14, CHARLOTTE STREET,
BLOOMSBURY; AND TO BÈ HAD OF THE BOOKSELLERS.
1814.
1
11
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XV.
PREFACE
HAVING, throughout the whole work, used the common and ac-
customed liberty of an historian, we have both praised the good, and
condemned the bad, as they have fallen in our way, to the end that
those whose genius and inclination prompts them to virtue may be
the more encouraged to noble actions, in hopes of having the glory
of their names continued to all succeeding generations; and, on the
other hand, that they who are bent to wickedness may be curbed and
restrained from the heat, at least, of their impiety, by those marks of
dishonour and disgrace fixed upon them. .
Since, therefore, we have brought down our history to the times
wherein the Lacedæmonians fell by the sudden and unexpected
slaughter at Leuctra, and the like again not long after at Mantinea,
whereby they lost the sovereignty of Greece, we judge it part of our
province to keep close to the former course and method of writing,
and therefore by the way in the first place to blame and reprehend
the Lacedæmonians, who justly deserve it: for who cannot but judge
them worthy of censure, and that justly, who, having a well-settled
empire and government descended to them from their ancestors, and
by their valour supported and defended for the space of above five
hundred years, should now in a moment ruin it by their own folly
and imprudence? For they that were before them preserved the
grandeur and glory of their conquests by their lenity and tenderness
towards their subjects; but these, their posterity, by their cruelty to
their confederates, and pride and ambition in making war upon the
Grecians, most deservedly lost all by their rashness and inconside-
rateness. For, those that hated them for the injuries they had be-
VOL. 2. No. 40.
B
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Book XV
fore suffered, greedily took the advantage, now they were low, to re-
venge themselves on them as their enemies. And they, whose fore-
fathers were never before conquered, were so much the more despised,
by how much they deserved the greater contempt, who, by their vices,
had stained the virtue and glory of their ancestors.
The Thebans, therefore, (who for many ages before were forced
to stoop to them as their superiors), having now (beyond all men's
expectations) conquered the Lacedæmonians, were made chief com-
mauders of Greece: but the Lacedæmonians, after they had once
lost their hold, could never after recover their antient glory and
dignity. But, enough of this; we shall now return to the course of
our history,
The preceding book, the fourteenth in order, ends with the ruin
of Rhegium by Dionysius, and the taking of Rome by the Gauls,
which happened the year next before the expedition of the Persians
into Cyprus, against Evagoras. We shall here begin this book with
that war, and end it with the year next preceding the reign of Philip,
the son of Amyotas.
CHAP. I.
Artaxerxes's expedition against Evagoras, in Cyprus. The actions
there at sea and land. The Lacedæmonians begin neu quarrels
in Greece: as first with Mantinea. Dionysius gives himself to
poetry. Peace concluded with Evagoras by Orontas the Persian
general. Teribazus brought to his trial. Judgment upon cor-
rupt judges. Teribazus acquitted.
IN Athens, Mystichides was archon; and at Rome, three tribunes
were invested with consular authority, Marcus Furius, Caius, and
Æmilius, when Artaxerxes, king of Persia, began his expedition a-
gainst Evagoras, king of Cyprus. The king had spent much time in
preparation for the war, and raised a great number of forces both
for sea and land from all parts: for his land-army consisted of three
hundred thousand horse and foot; and he equipped a fleet of above
Chap. 1.
3
DIODORUS SICULUS.
three hundred gallies. Orontas was made general of the land-army,
and Teribazus, a man highly honoured among the Persians, admiral
of the fleet. These headed their armies at Phocea and Cumá,
and descended to Cilicia, and from thence passed over to Cyprus,
where they very vigorously bestirred themselves for the carrying on
of the war.
In the mean time Evagoras entered into a league with Acoris,
king of Egypt, who supplied him with a great number of men, being
himself then at war with the Persians. He was also privately furnished
with money by Hecatomnus, the governor of Caria, to help him to
hire foreigners. And several other enemies of Persia, some secretly,
others openly, confederated with him in the war. He had, likewise,
many cities of Cyprus under bis command, with whom joined Tyre
in Phænicia, and other places Moreover, he had a navy of ninety
sail, of which twenty were from Tyre, and the rest of Cyprus. His
land-army consisted of six thousand of his own subjects, but those
from his confederates were many more: besides, being richly sup-
plied by them with money, be hired abundance of mercenaries.
And the king of Arabia, and other princes, who were jealous of
the king of Persia, sent him great forces. Being thus supported, hè
applied himself to the war with great courage and resolution.
And, in the first place, with his privateers (of which he had many)
he intercepted the enemy's transport-ships, laden with victuals and
provisions, and sunk some, disabled others, and took several besides;
so that there began to be great scarcity and want of corn in the Per-
sian camp, in regard the merchants durst not sail to Cyprus, where
that great army and body of men were got together. And this oc-
casioned a great mutiny in the army; for the mercenaries, for want
of bread, knocked some of their officers on the head, and filled the
camp with mutiny and tumult tó such a degree, that the Persian
colonels, and admiral of the fleet, called Gaos, could scarcely quell it.
The fleet, therefore, was sent to Cilicia for provisions, which returned
with a great quantity of corn from thence, by which the camp was
ever after plentifully supplied. But, as to Evagoras, Acoris sent to
him, out of Egypt, money, corn, and all other things necessary, suffi-
cient for his occasions,
Evagoras, finding that his navy was far too weak for the enemy,
furnished out threescore ships more, and sent for fifty besides froin
Acoris, so that now he had a fleet of two hundred sail. And, having
his navy thus bravely furnished and equipped ready for a battle (af-
ter he had some time trained and exercised his men, not without
terror to his enenries) he prepared for a fight at sea. But it hap-
pened that, as the king's fleet passed by towards Citium, falling sud-
4
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
1
denly upon them, in an orderly line of battle, he gained by far the
advantage, fighting in good order with ships in confusion and sepa-
rated, (and with premeditation engaging with men surprised and
taken at unawares), he presently, at the first onset, routed them:
for, charging in a body together, upon ships dispersed and in confu-
sion, they sunk and took several of them. But afterwards, when the
Persian admiral and other officers gathered up their spirits, they
bravely received the enemy's charge, so that the engagement grew
very sharp, in which Evagoras at the beginning had the better; but
Gaos with great courage bearing in upon him with his whole fleet,
the Evagoreans fled, with the loss of many of their gallies.
The Persians, having gained this victory, mustered both their land
and sea-forces at Citium, where, furnishing themselves with all things
necessary, ihey went jointly to besiege Salamis, and blocked it up
both by sea and land. But Teribazus, after the sea-fight, put over
to Cilicia, and went to the king to bring him the news of the victory,
from whom he brought back two thousand talents for the carrying on
of the war.
Evagoras, before the fight at sea, had routed part of the enemy's
arıny at land, which much encouraged him to further attempts; but,
after his sad misfortune at sea, and that thereupon he was straitly
besieged, bis spirits grew very low. However, conceiving it ne-
cessary to continue the war, he put the supreme power into the
hands of his son Pythagoras, and left him to defend the city, and
he himself privately in the night, undiscerned by the enemy, with
ten gallies departed from Salamis, and sailed into Egypt, where,
having audience of the king, hie endeavoured to persuade him to
make war upon the king of Persia with all the power he had.
While these things were on foot in Asia, the Lacedæmonians
(without any regard to the league made) decreed to march with an
army against Mantinea, for the reasons following. There was now
peace all over Greece, by the negotiation of Antalcidas, by virtue
whereof all the cities were freed from garrisons, and governed ac-
cording to their own laws. But the Spartans (naturally ambitious,
and a long time contriving how to begin a war) looked upon the peace
as a heavy burden, and (coveting to gain their antient dominion) be-
gan to endeavour innovations. To this end, by their tools and
creatures, they stirred up seditions in the cities, and thence took oc-
casion to disturb the present state of affairs. For they who were
freed, and set at liberty to govern according to the laws of their own
country, called them to an account who acted as maristrates under
the Lacedæmonians, and, being somewhat severe and sharp, (through
the fresh resentment of the late injuries suffered), they banished
Chap. I.
5
DIODORUS SICULUS.
many: upon this, the Lacedæinonians protected those who were de-
pressed by the contrary faction, and restored them by force of arms,
and by that means first imposed upon the weaker cities, and brought
them into slavery; but afterwards they gave laws to cities and places
of great account, not having kept the league two years together. And
now, because Mantinea was near to them, and full of valiant men, and
by the peace grown very rich, they were jealous of it, and resolved to
bring down the lordly spirits of those inhabitants: in the first place,
therefore, they sent ambassadors to them, to require them to demolish
their walls, and to settle themselves again in those five villages from
whence they antiently removed to Mantinea; but their demands be-
ing slighted, they forthwith marched thither with their forces, and
besieged the city.
Upon this, the Mantineans sent ambassadors to Athens for aid,
but the Athenians would by no means do any thing that might be
construed a breach of the public league; so that they valiantly
defended the place, and opposed the enemy with their own forces.
And thus Greece now began again to be embroiled in new wars.
In Sicily, Dionysius, the tyrant of Syracuse, being freed from the
war with the Carthaginians, reigned a long time in peace and pros-
perity, and with great intention of mind employed himself in writing
of verses, and sent for poets far and near, whom he had in high es-
teem, and made his familiars, to whose judgment and opinions he
referred the censure of his poems. Being fattered by these in pane-
gyrics of praise, for their own interest, he grew' highly conceited of
himself, and was prouder of his poems than of his conquests. Phi-
loxenus, a composer of dithyrambics, and one familiar with him, a
very excellent poet of his kind, when at a feast some of the foolish
verses of the tyrant were recited, he was asked how he approved of
them, who, answering something too freely and plainly, incurred the
tyrant's displeasure; who, looking upon himself abused, (through
envy), commanded bis guard to carry him away to work as a slave in
the quarries. But the next day, through the mediation of friends, he
was reconciled to him: and afterwards, at a feast to which he had
again invited the same persons, when he was in his cups, he highly
extolled his own poems; and singing some of them, (which he thought
none could excel), he asked what he thought of those? To which he
answered not a word, but called for Dionysius's guards, and wished
them to carry him away to the quarries. Dionysius at that time, for
the jest's sake, put it off with a laugh, thereby (as he thought)
taking off the edge of the reproof. But, not long after, when both
Dionysius and the rest of the poets wished him to forbear that un-
6
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
-
seasonable freedom of censuring, Philoxenus made a promise that
seemed to be a paradox --That for the future he would both speak
the truth, and also please Dionysius himself: and he performed his
word; for, when the tyrant afterwards recited some verses which set
forth some sad and mournful passages, he asked him how he ap-
proved of them? He answered_Miserable ! therein performing what
he had promised, by the ambiguity of the word. For Dionysius un-
derstood it as if he meant, the subject matter of the verses was very
sad and miserable, and set forth very pathetically, which sort of poesy
was rarely attained unto but by those who were of the higher form of
poets; and therefore he looked upon himself as highly applauded by
him; but others interpreted what he said with more truth, that that
word miserable denoted the badness of his verse.
Not far unlike to this was that which happened to Plato the phi-
Josopher, whom Dionysius sent for because he was a man eminent
in philosophy, and for some time at the first he greatly honoured him.
But, taking offence at something he said to him, he hated him to
that degree, that he ordered him to be brought into the common
market-place, and there sold as a slave for five minas: but the plai-
Josophers (who consulted together on the matter) afterwards redeemed
him, and sent him back to Greece, with this friendly advice __. That
a philosopher should very rarely converse with tyrants; and when he
did, he should be of a gaining behaviour.
However, Dionysius went on with his study of poetry, and sent
stage-players that could sing excellently well to the Olympic games,
there to sing his verses, who indeed at the first caught the audi-
tors by the ears with the sweetness of their voices; but, when they
considered further of the matter and composure of the poems, they
went away, and set up a great laughter. When he heard how
his verses were despised and hissed off the stage, he fell into a fit
of melancholy, which growing upon him day by day, he raged at
length like a madman, and cried out. That every one envied him,
and were plotting to take away his life, till it came to his very inti-
mate friends and relations. In this temper he arrived at last to that
height of madness and melancholy, that he put many of his friends
to death upon false accusations, and banished several others, amongst
whom were Leptines, his brother, and Philistus, men of valour and
undaunted courage, who had done remarkable service for him in the
war. They fled to the Thurians, in Italy, and were there in great
esteem among them: but afterwards they were restored to the ty-
rant's favour by his own seeking, and were not only brought back to
Syracuse, but regained his former good opinion, and enjoyed their
Chap. I.
7
DIODORUS SICULUS.
places of power and authority as they did before. And Leptines
married Dionysius's daughter. And these were the transactions of
this year.
When Dexitheus bore the office of lord-chancellor of Athens, and
Lucius* Lucretius, and Servilius Sulpitius, were Roman consuls,
Evagoras, king of Salamis, returned out of Egypt into Cyprus, where,
when he found the city closely besieged, and all his confederates to
have deserted him, he was forced to send ambassadors to seek for
terms of peace. Teribazus, who had the sovereign power and com-
mand, returned him this answer_That he would make peace with him,
upon condition he would quit all the cities of Cyprus, and be content
only with Salamis, and yield a yearly tribute to the king, and be ob.
servant to all his commands, as a servant to his master: to which
terms, though they were very hard, he submitted, excepting that one
That he should be obedient in all things, as a servant to his mas-
ter. But he said, he would agree to be subject to him as one king to
another: which Teribazus would not consent to. Upon this, the
other general, Orontas, who envied Teribazus, sent letters privately
to Artaxerxes to accuse him: as first-That whereas it was in his
power to take Salamis by force, he waved it, and had treated with the
enemy, in order to bring about some innovations for the common ad-
vantage of them both; that he bad entered into a private league with
the Lacedæmonians; that be had sent messengers to the oracle at
Delphos, to consult about making war upon the king; and, as a
matter of the greatest concern, that he might gain all the officers of
the army to be his creatures, he had bribed them with gifts, prefer-
ments, and many large promises. When the king had read these
letters, (believing all to be true), he wrote back to Orontas to seize
upon Teribazus, and to send him forthwith to bim: whereupon he
executed the command; and, when Teribazus came before the king,
be desired he might be brought to his legal trial, upon which he was
committed into custody; but the trial was long deferred, because the
king presently after was engaged in the war against the Cadusians.
In the mean time Orontas, now chief commander of the army in
Cyprus, seeing Evagoras courageously defend the place, and perceiv-
ing his own soldiers discontented with the seizing of Teribazus, and
to slight his commands, and fall off from the siege, fearing some sud-
den misfortune, sent to Evagoras, and a peace was concluded upon
the same terms he would have agreed to with Teribazus. And thus
Evagoras (beyond his own expectation) freed from absolute slavery,
entered into a league, upon conditions that he should pay an yearly
tribute to the king, and be sovereign lord of Salamis, and subject to
• Titus
8 8
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the king no otherwise than as one king to another. And thus ended
the Cyprian war, which was spun out nearly ten years, though most of
that time was only spent in preparation, and not above two years of it
in actual war.
But Gaos, the vice-admiral of the fleet, who had married the
daughter of Teribazus, was in great pain lest he should suffer some-
thing or other, out of suspicion of his being familiar and conversant
with Teribazus: therefore he resolved to be beforehand with the king,
and to that end, being well furnished with a brave navy, and having
the love of the sea-captains and officers, he began to advise and con-
sider of a defection; and forthwith, without any further delay, en-
tered into a league with Acoris, king of Egypt, against the great
king of Persia. He stirred up, likewise, the Lacedæmonians by his
letters, and, amongst other large and glorious promises, he engaged
he would assist them in settling their affairs in Greece, and maintain-
ing and supporting their sovereignty. And, in truth, the Spartans
had, some time before, been contriving how to recover the sovereign
power over the Grecians, and at that time had given clear indications
(by their disturbances) of their design to enslave the cities. And
that which furthered the matter was, they repented of the peace
made with Artaxerxes, because they were charged and accused to
have betrayed all the Grecians in Asia by that league with the king;
therefore they were very ready to catch at an opportunity to renew
the war, and to that end very cheerfully made a league with Gaos.
After Artaxerxes had ended the war with the Cadusians, he brought
Teribazus to his trial, and referred the cognizance of his cause to three
honourable persons. Near this time some corrupt judges were flayed
alive, and their skins spread round the judgment-seats, that those that
sat there might always have an example before their eyes of the pu-
nishment due to injustice, to deter them from the like.
The accusers, therefore, of Teribazus produced against him the
letters of Orontas, earnestly pressing them as sufficient evidence to
convict him. On the other hand, Teribazus, that he might make it
evidently appear that the accusation was a mere scandal contrived
between Orontas and Evagoras, produced the agreement between
them, whereby Evagoras was to obey the king as a king himself, and
no otherwise; and that the terms upon which Teribazus would have
made peace were _That Evagoras should be observant to the king
as a servant to his master. And, as to the oracle, he brought all those
Grecians who were at that time present, to testify—That the god re-
turned not any answer relating to the death of any person. And, as
to the good correspondence between him and the Lacedæmonians,
he declared that he entered into a league with them not for any pri-
Chap. 1.
9
DIODORUS SICULUS.
vate advantage of his own, but for the profit and advantage of the
king. For by this nieans (he told them) the Grecians in Asia, being
divided from the Lacedæmonians, were made better subjects, and
more obedient; and, going on with his defence, he put the judges in
mind of his former remarkable services to the crown.
Amongst those which clearly manifested his faith and loyalty to
the king, and which deserved the greatest commendation, and chiefly
(as was said) won the king's heart, was this._That when the king
was one day in his chariot a-hunting, two lions ran fiercely upon
him, and, tearing the two chariot-horses in pieces, they made at
him, at which instant Teribazus came fortunately in, killed both the
lions, and so rescued the king. It is likewise reported of him, that
he was a person of extraordinary valour, and of so sound and solid a
judgment in council, that the king never miscarried when he followed
his advice.
When Teribazus had ended what he had to say in his own defence,
all the judges with one voice acquitted him, and pronounced him in-
nocent of all the crimes and offences laid to his charge. But the
king afterwards sent for the judges to him severally, and examined
every one by himself, upon what grounds of law they pronounced the
accused innocent. To whom the first answered_That the matter
of the accusation was uncertain and dubious, but his good services
were clear, apparent, and manifest to all. Another said _That,
though those things objected against him were true, yet that all his
faults were over-ballanced by his deserts. The third justified his
vote to discharge him, by declaring_That he had no regard to his
merits, because the king had rewarded them above their deserts; but,
upon strictly examining the nature of every particular charge, it did
not appear to him that the party accused was guilty of any of them.
Upon which the king commended the judges, as just and upright
men, and advanced Teribazus to the highest places of honour. But
as to Orontas, he discarded him, as a false accuser, and noted him
with all the marks of ignominy and disgrace. And thus stood affairs
in Asia at this time.
Vol, 2. No. 40.
1
܂ ;
10
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. II.
Nantinea besieged by the Lacedæmonians. Dionysius aims to
gain the islands of the Adriatic sea. The Parii build Paros.
Dionysius's expedition into Etruria. Prepares for war against
the Carthaginians. The Sicilians routed at Cronium. The
quarrel between the Clazomenians and those of Cura, about
Leuce. The war between Amyntas and the Olynthians. The
Lacedæmonians seize the citadel of Cadmea at Thebes. Euda-
midas breaks into the country of the Olynthians.
IN Greece, the Lacedæmonians pressed on the siege of Mantineay
and the Mantineans bravely defended the place all that summer: for
they were reputed the most valiant men of all the Arcadians, and
therefore the Spartans in former times were used to account those
their surest and truest friends in all fights and engagements. But,
when winter drew on, and the river running under the town swelled
high by the rains, the Lacedæmonians dammed up the river with
earth and rubbish, and turned the current into the city; so that all
the place round about was like to a standing pool; by reason whereof
the bouses fell down, which amazed them of Mantinea, so that they
were forced to deliver up the city; which, being thus taken, the
citizens suffered no other hardships from the Lacedæmonians, save
only that they were ordered to return to those antient villages
from whence they originally came: they were forced, therefore, to
leave their country, and to settle themselves and their families in the
villages.
About this time Dionysius the tyrant of Syracuse had a design to
gain the cities lying upon the Adriatic sea; and that which chiefly
moved him to it was, because he coveted to be master of the Ionian
sea, (as they call it), to the end that he might have a free and open
passage to Epirus, and to have towns and places for his ships ready
to touch at: for he was every day making preparations to transport
great numbers of forces into Epirus, and to rifle and plunder the rich
temple at Delphos. To this end he made a league with the Illyrians,
by the help of Alcetas the Molossian, who was then an exile at Syra-
cuse. And, the Illyrians being then engaged in a war, he sent them
two thousand soldiers, and five hundred Grecian arms: the arms
they distributed amongst the strongest and stoutest of their men, and
the auxiliaries they mixed here and there in several of their own com-
a
Chap. II.
11
DIODORUS SICULUS.
panies and regiments. The Illyrians, having now raised a great
army, made an irruption into Epirus, in order to restore Alcetas to his
kingdom, and wasted and spoiled the country without opposition or
controul. Afterwards, a sharp battle was fought between them and
the Molossians, in which the Illyrians were victors, and killed above
fifteen thousand of the Molossians, which slaughter of the Epirots
being made known to the Lacedæmonians, they sent them aid, to
curb and bridle the fierceness and cruelty of the barbarians.
During the transaction of these affairs, the Parii*, by the encou-
ragement of an old prophecy, sent forth a colony to the Adriatic
coast, where they built Paros, by the help of Dionysius, in an island
so called. For, not many years before, he had sent a colony thither,
and built the city Lissus; by the advantage of which place (when
he had little else to do, he raised an arsenal for two hundred gallies,
and walled the town in so large a circuit, that it exceeded in compass
all the cities of Greece. He likewise built stately schools and col-
leges on the side of the river Anapust, with temples and other beauti-
ful fabrics, to advance the glory and greatness of the city.
And now ended the year, when Diotrephes, for the next, was ar-
chon of Athens; and Lucius Valerius, and Aulus Manlius, were Ro-
man consuls. At Ælis was solemnized the ninety-ninth Olympiad,
in which Dicon the Syracusan won the prize. At this time the
Parii (who were now seated in the island Paros) walled in the city
they had built near the sea-side, not in the least juring the barba-
rians, the antient inhabitants of the island, but allotted them a place
very strong, and excellently well fortified. But this nestling of the
Greeks was a great eye-sore to the natural inhabitants; therefore
they sent for the Illyrians bordering upon the continent over against
them, who passed over to Paros in many small vessels, to the num-
ber of above ten thousand men, and fell upon the Greeks, and killed
many of them. But he who was made governor of Lissus by Dio.
nysius, with a great fleet set upon the shipping of the Illyrians, and
took and sunk all of them, killed five thousand of their men, and took
two thousand prisoners.
Dionysius, being now in great want of money, began an expedi-
tion with threescore gallies into Etruriaf, under pretence of scour-
ing the seas of pirates, but in truth to rob a famous temple in those
parts, which was very full of rich gifts and donations. It stood in
the burbs of Agylla, a city of Etruria, where was the arsenal
which they call the Towers. He landed in the night, and, forcing
in at break of day, accomplished his design; for, there being but a
* Paros, an island of the Ægean sea, near Delos.
+ A river in Sicily.
Tyrrhenia by the Greek, but wistaken,
>
12
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
small guard in the castle, he easily overpowered them, rifled the tem-
ple, and took out above a thousand talents.
And, though they of Agylla sallied out to repel the enemy, yet he
routed them, took many prisoners, and, after he had wasted and
spoiled the country, sailed back to Syracuse, where he raised no less
than five hundred talents by the sale of the spoils. Having thus filled
his coffers, he raised soldiers from all parts, and got together a great
army; so that it was evident (to the apprehension of all) that he de-
signed war against the Carthaginians. And these were the things
done this year.
Afterwards, the dignity of archon was conferred upon Phanostra-
tus, at Athens; and the Romans made four military tribunes consuls,
Lucius Lucretius, Servius Sulpitius, Lucius* Æmilius, and Lucius
Furius. At this time Dionysius the tyrant of Syracuse, being pre-
pared for the war against Carthage, watched for a fair occasion to
colour and countenance his design. Discerning, therefore, that the
cities subject to the Carthaginians were inclined to a revolt, he re-
ceived into his protection as many as would come to him, and entered
into a league with thein, carrying himself with great complacency
and winning behaviour. Upon this, the Carthaginians first sent am-
bassadors to him, and demanded the restitution of the cities, which
being denied, was the occasion of a new war.
The Carthaginians therefore entered into confederacies with their
neighbours, and all joined together in the war against the tyrant.
And, because they prudently foresaw the greatness of the war, they
listed soldiers out of the choicest of the citizens, and laid up great
sums of money, wherewith they hired a vast number of foreigners;
and, having made Mago their general (who at that time bore the
title of king) they transported many thousands of soldiers both into
Italy and Sicily, for they had decreed to make war upon them both
at once. Dionysius likewise himself divided his forces, some against
the Italiots, and others against the Carthaginians: whereupon many
light skirmishes happened between partics here and there every day,
but nothing was as yet done of any moment. But there afterwards
happened two great battles that were especially famous and remark-
able, in one of which, at a place called Cabala, Dionysius made him-
self noted for his valour, and outed the enemy, killing above ten
thousand of them, taking five thousand prisoners, and forcing the
rest to fly to a hill that was fortified, but altogether without water.
In this fight Mago their general was killed, behaving himself with
great gallantry and resolution. The Carthaginians, terrified with the
greatness of this slaughter, sent forthwith ambassadors to make peace
• Caius.
Chap. II.
13
DIODORUS SICULUS,
He was
with Dionysius; but he returned them answer, that there was only
one way left for them to make peace with him, and that was, forth-
with to quit all the cities of Sicily, and to reimburse all the charge
of the war. This answer was looked upon as harsh and proud;
therefore they betook themselves to their old arts of fraud and deceit:
for they seemed as if they allowed of his terms, but pretended that it
was not in their power to deliver up the cities to him; therefore they
desired a truce for some few days, that they might consult with the
magistrates concerning this affair, which he agreed to.
much transported at the truce, having now a prospect presently (as
he conceived) to be lord of all Sicily. In the mean time the Cartha-
ginians buried Mago their king with great pomp and state, putting
his son into the same place, who, though he was very young, yet there
were marks and appearances in him of more than ordinary wisdom
and valour. This new general spent all the time of the truce in
training and disciplining his soldiers; so that, what with his daily
diligence, exact directions, and frequent exercise of their arms, be
had an army both readily subject to command, and hardy and strong
for service. And now the time of the cessation expired, and the ar-
mies on both sides came bastily into the field; and at Cronium was a
sharp engagement, where God gave the Carthaginians the victory, to
make amends for their former slaughter. For they who were grown
proud and boasting by their victory a little before, were now as low
and poor-spirited. On the other hand, they who were altogether de-
jected, and in despair, by reason of their overthrow, had their spirits
on a sudden raised by their great and unexpected success: for Lep-
tines, who commanded one of the wings, a valiant man, signalized
himself, and there fell in the bed of honour, after he had made a
great slaughter amongst his enemies; after whose fall the Carthagi-
nians plucked up their spirits, and at length put their enemies to
fight. Dionysius, with those choice men he had with him, at the
first worsted those that charged him; but, when the death of Leptines
was known, and the other wing was discerued to be broken and dis-
persed, that part of the army with Dionysius fled likewise: upon
which, the whole body betaking themselves to their heels, the Care
thaginians made a hot pursuit, and gave orders that no quarter should
be given; so that, all being killed that came to hand, every place for
a long way together was strewed and covered with dead bodies. The
Carthaginians, in revenge of their former loss, had made so great a
slaughter, that, when the slain came to be buried, they were found
to amount to above fourteen thousand Sicilians; and it was by the
advantage of night only that the rest escaped. The Carthaginians,
14
Book X
DIODORUS SICULUS.
*
having now gained so great and remarkable a victory, returned to
Panormus: howeyer (as it became men) they used their prosperity
with great moderation, and sent ambassadors to Dionysius, to offer
him terms of peace, which he readily embraced, and all was con-
eluded upon these conditions-That both sides should keep what
they had before the war, save only that the Carthaginians should have
the city and territory of Selinus, and part of the country of Agrigen-
tum, as far as to the river Alycum, and that Dionysius should pay a
thousand talents to the Carthaginians. And thus stood affairs in
Sicily at that time.
In Asia, Gaos, admiral of the Persian fleet, who had rebelled
against the king, after he had engaged the Lacedæmonians and Egyp-
tians to his interest, was murdered secretly by some person unknown,
and so failed of his designs. After whose death Tachos, pursuing
the same design, got an army together, and built a city upon a high
rock joining to the sea, called Leuce, where he built a chaple to
Apollo; but he died likewise a little after: upon whose death the
Clazomenians and they of Cuma fell at strife and variance for the
town, which at first they went about to decide by force of arms: but
afterwards, by the advice of some person, consulting the oracle of
Delphos, to know to which of the cities Leuce should belong, the
prophetess answered That it should be theirs who should first sacri-
fice at Leuce; but that both should set forth from their cities at he
rising of the sun, upon one and the same day, as they themselves
should agree upon. Accordingly the day was set, and the Cumani
in the mean time looked upon themselves to have the advantage, be-
cause their city was nearer than the other. But the Clazomienians,
though they were more remote, yet contrived this project to gain
their end; they sent some of their citizens, chosen by lot, to a colony
of theirs not far from Leuce, and from thence, at sun-rising, they
began their journey, and so finished their sacrifices before them of
Cuma. Having thus gained Leuce by this trick, in memory thereof
they appointed an yearly festival, which they called Prophthasia, from
this their coming first to Leuce. These things thus done, all rebel-
lions in Asia were at an end; and the Lacedæmonians now, after the
death of Gaos and Tachos, would have no more to do with Asia, but
set their heads at work how to advance their power in Greece. And,
having persuaded some of the cities, and forced others to receive their
exiles, they possessed themselves of the sovereignty of the whole,
manifestly against the league amongst all the Grecians, made by An-
talcidas, by the help of the king of Persia.
In Macedonia, king Amyntas (after he was overcome by the Illy-
#
Chup. II.
15
DIODORUS SICULUS.
rians, in despair of being able to help himself) bestowed a large track
of land upon the Olynthians, which lay near to them, as never think-
ing to be restored again to his kingdom. The Olynthians enjoyed
this peace for some time; but, when the king recovered strength, and
was reinstated in his former dignity, he demanded restitution of the
land, which the Olynthians denied. Upon which, Amyntas raised
both an army of his own, and entered into a league with the Lace-
dæmonians, and prevailed with them to send a general with a great
army against the Olynthians. The Lacedæmonians, resolving to fix
in those parts of Thrace, raised an army out of their own citizens and
confederates, to the number of ten thousand men, over which they
made Phoebidas, the Spartan, general, and commanded him to join
with Amyntas, and make war upon the Olynthians. They sent out
another body against the Phæuntines, whom they subdued, and forced
to submit to their government.
About this time the two Lacedæmonian kings, having different
sentiments, disagreed one with another. For Agesipolis was a lover
of peace, and a just and wise man, and therefore declared against
oppressing the Greeks: for he said that Sparta would become infa-
mous amongst all the people, if, after they had been instrumental in
making the Grecians in Asia slaves to the Persians, they should now
enslave all the cities of Greece to themselves, whose liberties they had
sworn in the common league to preserve inviolable. On the other
hand Agesilaus, being naturally turbulent and inclined to war, thirsted
after dominion over the Grecians.
Afterwards, when Menander was lord-chancellor of Athens, and
six military tribunes, Quintus Sulpitius, Caius Fabius, Cornelius Ser-
vilius*, Quintus Servilius, Sextus Annius, and Caius Marcius, bore
the consular dignity at Rome, the Lacedæmonians seized the Cad-
mea, the citadel of Thebes, for the reasons following:-They had for
some time before considered that Boeotia was full of towns and cities,
and that the inhabitants were men both of stout hearts and strong
bodies; and especially, that Thebes, which continued to that day in
its antient state and grandeur, was even the guard and bulwark of all
Boeotia; therefore they were afraid lest, at some fit opportunity or
other, they should become lords of Greece: for this reason they gave
private instructions to their commanders, to seize upon the Cadmea as
soon as they could spy a fit opportunity. Phoebidas the Spartan ge-
neral, in his march against the Olynthians, (remembering his instruc-
tions), surprised the Cadmea, which so enraged the Thebans, that they
Servius Cornelius,
16
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
rose in arms, but were beaten; and he banished three hundred of the
most eminent citizens, and put all the rest into a great fright: and,
leaving there a strong garrison, marched away in pursuance of the
business he had chiefly in hand,
All the Grecians everywhere complained of the Lacedæmonians for
this unworthy act; and they indeed themselves fined Phoebidas for it,
but could not be brought to withdraw the garrison. And thus the
Thebans were robbed of their liberty, and brought under the power
of the Lacedæmonians. But the Olynthians resolutely persisting in
the war against Amyntas, king of Macedon, Phæbidas was ordered to
lay down his commission, and Eudamidas, his brother, was made ge.
neral, and sent away with three thousand heavy-armed men to carry
on the war against the Olynthians, who, breaking into the their ,
country, jointly with Amyntas fell upon them; but the Olynthians be-
ing good soldiers, and overpowering the other in number, beat them
both. Upon this the Lacedæmonians raised a great army, and made
Teleutias, king Agesilaus's brother, general, whe was a man of high
esteem among the citizens for his valour, who, as soon as he entered
the borders of Olynthus, was joined by the forces of Eudamidas;
and now, being strong enough to fight the enemy, he first spoiled and
wasted the country, and divided the prey (which he had got together
in abundance) amongst the soldiers. Afterwards, the Olynthians
marched out with their own, and the forces of their confederates.
Upon which the armies engaged, and at the beginning the battle was
doubtful; but afterwards, the fight was renewed with that extraor-
dinary courage and resolution, that Teleutias, bravely acquitting him-
self, and above twelve hundred Lacedæmonians more, were there
killed upon the place. The Spartans, being nettled at this suc-
cess of the Olynthians, made greater preparations, in order to
repair their loss. So, on the other hand, the Olynthians, suspecting
that the Lacedæmonians would bring down greater forces upon
them, and that the war might continue long, furnished themselves
with plenty of corn and provisions, and with other aids from their
confederates,
Demophilus was now archon at Athens; and Publius Cornelius,
Lucius Virginius, Lucius Papirius, Marcus Furius*, Valerius Au-
liust, Manliust Lucius, and Posthumius Quintuss, military tri-
bunes, were consuls at Rome, when the Lacedæmonians decreed
war against the Olynthians, and made their king Agesipolis general
over an army of force sufficient for the expedition. As soon as he
· Valerius.
t Aulus Manlius.
Lucius.
$ Posthomius,
Chap. III,
17
DIODORUS SICULUS.
entered the enemy's country, he joined with those that were en-
camped there, and forthwith fell to action. The Olynthians this year
fought no considerable battle, but kept the king's army in play
(whom they were afraid to encounter) with continual bickering, and
light and frequent skirmishes.
CHAP. Ili.
Pelopidas sent general by the Lacedæmonians against the Olynthi-
ans. A great plague in Carthage. The Boeotian war. The Cad-
mea re-taken. A confederacy of the cities against the Lacedæ-
monians. Cleombrotus attempts to surprise the Pirous at Athens.
The Athenians seize Acta in Eubæa. Agesilaus enters Bæotia.
The sea-fight at Naxos.
AFTER the end of the year, Pytheas was created chief magistrate
of Athens; and six military tribunes bore the consular authority at
Rome, Titus Quintius, Lucius Servilius, Lucius Julius, Aquilius*
Decius, Lucretius Anchius, and Servius Sulpitius. At that time was
solemnized the hundredth Olympiad at Elis; in which Dionysiodorus
the Tarentine bore away the prize. In the mean time Agesipolis,
king of Lacedæmon, died, in the fourteenth year of his reign; and,
his brother Cleombrotus succeeding him, reigned nine years. But
the Lacedæmoniaus constituted Pelopidas general, and sent him forth
against the Olynthians. He swore all his soldiers to be true and
faithful to him, and gained many victories, managing the war with
the valour and conduct that became a good general. At length, im-
proving his good fortune and frequent successes, he drove the Olyn-
thians within their walls, and, penning them up, so terrified them,
that he forced them to submit to the Lacedæmonians as their sove.
reign lords. As soon as the Olynthians were enrolled among the
confederates of the Spartans, many other cities sought to come under
the same protection. And now the power of the Lacedæmonians
was in its greatest strength, as being lords of all Greece, both by sea
and land: for the Thebans were overawed by a garrison; the Corina
thians and Argives were tired out with wars one with another; and
the Athenians, for their covetousness and cruelty exercised among
one Lucius.
Vol. 2. No40,
D
18
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
those they had subdued, were despised by all the Grecians. On the
other hand, all were afraid of the Lacedæmonians, because they were
very populous, expert soldiers, and unwearied in their attempts; in-
somuch that the greatest of the princes in those times (I mean the
king of Persia, and Dionysius the tyrant of Sicily) courted the Spar-
tans, and were ambitious of their alliance.
Afterwards, when Nico governed at Athens, and six military tri-
bunes were created consuls at Rome, Lucius Papirius, Caius Corne-
lius, Lucius Manlius, Caius Servilius, Valerius Aulius, and Quintus
Fabius, the Carthaginians entered with an army into Italy, and re-
stored the Hipponiats to their city, whence they had been ex-
pelled, and kindly received all the exiles that came in to him from
all parts.
Not long after a great plague happened in Carthage, which, raging
more and more, swept away abundance of the inhabitants, insomuch
that they were in great danger to have lost their sovereignty: for the
Africans slighted and deserted them, and the inhabitants of Sardinia
(supposing they had now a fit opportunity) revolted, and rose up in
arms against them. Moreover, a remarkable judgment of God fell
upon Carthage at this time: for the city was all on a sudden in an
uproar, filled with tumult, fear, and horror; and, many running armed
out of their houses, (as if an enemy had entered the place), fought,
wounded, and killed one another in the streets. At length, the gods
being appeased by sacrifices, and they delivered out of their sad
afflictions, they presently subdued the Africans, and recovered Sar-
dinia.
After these things, when Nausinicus was chief governor of Athens,
and four military tribunes, Marcus Cornelius, Servilius Quintius,
Marcus Furius, and Lucius Quintius, were clothed with the consu-
lar dignity at Rome, the Baotian war (so called) broke out, between
the Baotians and the Lacedæmonians, upon the accounts following:
-The Lacedæmonians, against all law and justice, forcibly detained
the citadel of Cadmea, and had forced many persons of quality to fly
out of their own country; the exiles therefore, upon a private con-
sultation among themselves, (by the help of the Athenians), returned
in the night into their city, and in the first place killed all those they
judged had sided with the Lacedæmonians, surprising them in their
houses, while they were asleep; then they stirred up all the common
people to appear for their liberties; upon which the whole city of
Thebes readily came in to their assistance, and, getting into a body,
surrounded the Cadmea by break of day. In the mean time the La-
cedæmonian garrison that was in the citadel, which consisted of na
fewer than fifteen hundred men, sent a messenger to Sparta, to in-
Chap. III.
19
DIODORUS SICULUS.
26
form them of the insurrection in Thebes, and to desire aid with all
speed. However, they from the bastions in the citadel beat off the
besiegers, killing and wounding many. Upon this the Thebans,
concluding that great forces would be brought out of Greece to the
assistance of the Lacedænionians, sent ambassadors to Athens, to
put them in mind how they had been assisted by the Thebans at
that time when they rescued their commonwealth from the slavery
they suffered under the thirty tyrants, and therefore that they should
press them that they would hasten, with all the force they had, to help
them to reduce the Cadmea, before any aid came from Sparta.
26 The people of Athens, as soon as they heard what was desired by
the Thebans, decreed that without delay a strong and considerable
army should be sent to help them to regain their liberty, both to de-
monstrate their gratitude for their former services, and likewise hop-
ing thereby so to oblige the Thebans as that they should ever find
them fast and constant friends, to assist them at all times against the
growing and boundless power of the Lacedaemonians: for the The-
bans were looked upon not to be inferior to any in Greece for num-
ber or valour of men. In conclusion, the Athenians made Demo-
phon general over five thousand foot and five hundred horse, who
drew out before day next morning; and bastened away with a swift
march, that he might be before the Lacedæmonians; however, the
people of Athens were ready and prepared to march out with all their
forces into Baotia, if the Thebans had occasion for them. Demo-
phon with great expedition (beyond expectation) appeared in view
of them of Thebes; and soldiers came together with the like zeal and
earnestness from the other cities of Bæotia; so that the Thebans had
now a numerous army, consisting of no less than twelve thousand
foot, and about two thousand horse, and all cheerfully and readily
bestirred themselves to besiege the citadel. The army divided them-
selves into parties, and assaulted the place by turns, persisting with-
out any cessation night and day. In the mean time, they in the
castle (encouraged by their officers) bore the brunt with great
courage, hoping to receive speedy succours from the Lacedæmo-
nians: and, indeed, they valiantly stood it out while they had any vic-
tuals left, killing and wounding many of the assailants, having the
advantage of the strength of the fort; but, when their provisions
grew low, and the Lacedæmonians lingered in sending relief, the gar-
rison began to mutiny.
For the Lacedæmonians were for the standing of it out to the last
man, but the auxiliaries from the confederate cities (who were the
greater number) were for delivering it up; so the Spartans, who were
but few, were forced to surrender the citadel; and, being dismissed
18
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
those they had subdued, were despised by all the Grecians. On the
other hand, all were afraid of the Lacedæmonians, because they were
very populous, expert soldiers, and unwearied in their attempts; in-
somuch that the greatest of the princes in those times (I mean the
king of Persia, and Dionysius the tyrant of Sicily) courted the Spar-
tans, and were ambitious of their alliance,
Afterwards, when Nico governed at Athens, and six military tri-.
bunes were created consuls at Rome, Lucius Papirius, Caius Corne-
lius, Lucius Manlius, Caius Servilius, Valerius Aulius, and Quintus
Fabius, the Carthaginians entered with an army into Italy, and re-
stored the Hipponiats to their city, whence they had been ex-
pelled, and kindly received all the exiles that came in to him from
all parts.
Not long after a great plague happened in Carthage, which, raging
more and more, swept away abundance of the inhabitants, insomuch
that they were in great danger to have lost their sovereignty: for the
Africans slighted and deserted them, and the inhabitants of Sardinia
(supposing they had now a fit opportunity) revolted, and rose up in
arms against them. Moreover, a remarkable judgment of God fell
upon Carthage at this time: for the city was all on a sudden in an
uproar, filled with tumult, fear, and horror; and, many running armed
out of their houses, (as if an enemy had entered the place), fought,
wounded, and killed one another in the streets. At length, the gods
being appeased by sacrifices, and they delivered out of their sad
afflictions, they presently subdued the Africans, and recovered Sara
dinia.
After these things, when Nausinicus was chief governor of Athens,
and four military tribunes, Marcus Cornelius, Servilius Qụintius,
Marcus Furius, and Lucius Quintius, were clothed with the consu-
lar dignity at Rome, the Baotian war (so called) broke out, between
the Baotians and the Lacedæmonians, upon the accounts following:
_The Lacedæmonians, against all law and justice, forcibly detained
the citadel of Cadmea, and had forced many persons of quality to fly
out of their own country; the exiles therefore, upon a private con-
sultation among themselves, (by the help of the Athenians), returned
in the night into their city, and in the first place killed all those they
judged had sided with the Lacedæmonians, surprising them in their
houses, while they were asleep; then they stirred up all the common
people to appear for their liberties; upon which the whole city of
Thebes readily came in to their assistance, and, getting into a body,
surrounded the Cadmea by break of day. In the mean time the La-
cedæmonian garrison that was in the citadel, which consisted of na
fewer than fifteen hundred men, sent a messenger to Sparta, to in-
Chap. III.
19
DIODORUS SICULUS.
26
form them of the insurrection in Thebes, and to desire aid with all
speed. However, they from the bastions in the citadel beat off the
besiegers, killing and wounding many. Upon this the Thebans,
concluding that great forces would be brought out of Greece to the
assistance of the Lacedæmonians, sent ambassadors to Athens, to
put them in mind how they had been assisted by the Thebans at
that time when they rescued their commonwealth from the slavery
they suffered under the thirty tyrants, and therefore that they should
press them that they would hasten, with all the force they had, to help
them to reduce the Cadmea, before any aid came from Sparta.
26 The people of Athens, as soon as they heard what was desired by
the Thebans, decreed that without delay a strong and considerable
army should be sent to help them to regain their liberty, both to de-
monstrate their gratitude for their former services, and likewise hop-
ing thereby so to oblige the Thebans as that they should ever find
them fast and constant friends, to assist them at all times against the
growing and boundless power of the Lacedæmonians: for the The-
bans were looked upon not to be inferior to any in Greece for num-
ber or valour of men. In conclusion, the Athenians made Demo-
phon general over five thousand foot and five hundred horse, who
drew out before day next morning; and bastened away with a swift
march, that he might be before the Lacedæmonians; however, the
people of Athens were ready and prepared to march out with all their
forces into Baotia, if the Thebans had occasion for them. Demo-
phon with great expedition (beyond expectation) appeared in view
of the mof Thebes; and soldiers came together with the like zeal and
earnestness from the other cities of Baotia; so that the Thebans had
now a numerous army, consisting of no less than twelve thousand
foot, and about two thousand horse, and all cheerfully and readily
bestirred themselves to besiege the citadel. The army divided them-
selves into parties, and assaulted the place by turns, persisting with-
out any cessation night and day. In the mean time, they in the
castle (encouraged by their officers) bore the brunt with great
courage, hoping to receive speedy succours from the Lacedæmo-
nians: and, indeed, they valiantly stood it out while they had any vic-
tuals left, killing and wounding many of the assailants, having the
advantage of the strength of the fort; but, when their provisions
grew low, and the Lacedæmonians lingered in sending relief, the gar-
rison began to mutiny.
For the Lacedæmonians were for the standing of it out to the last
man, but the auxiliaries from the confederate cities (who were the
greater number) were for delivering it up; so the Spartans, who were
but few, were forced to surrender the citadel; and, being dismissed
20
Book XV
DIODORUS SICULUS.
accordiog to articles, returned to Peloponnesus. At length the
Lacedæmonians came with their army to Thebes; but, having lost
their opportunity, through the slowness of their march, all was to no
purpose. But they tried three of the officers of the garrison by a
council of war, and condemned two of them to die, and imposed
so great a mulct and fine upon the third, that he was never able to
pay it. Afterwards, the Athenians returned into their own country,
and the Thebans spent much time in vain in the siege of Thespis.
During these affairs the Romans sent a colony of five hundred citi-
zens into Sardinia, upon terms of being free from tribute.
28 Afterwards, when Callias was lord-chancellor of Athens, and four
military tribunes, Lucius Papirius, Marcus* Publius, Titus Corne-
liust, and Quintus Luciust, were honoured with the consular dig-
nity at Rome, (after the Lacedæmonians had miscarried at Thebes),
the Bæotians took courage, and, entering into associations, raised a
great army, because they foresaw that the Lacedæmonians would
presently enter with a strong body into Bæotia.
The Athenians likewise sent persons of the greatest quality amongst
them to persuade the cities subject to the Lacedæmonians not to ne-
glect the present opportunity now offered to recover their liberties:
for, indeed, the Lacedæmonians were grown to that height, that they
lorded it with great pride and oppression over their subjects; there-
fore many of them were inclined to comply with the Athenians. The
first that made a defection were those of Chios and Byzantium, after
them Rhodes and Mitylene, and some other islands. And now the
commotions and disturbances of the cities of Greece more and more
increasing, many of them joined with Athens; upon which the
people of Athens, encouraged by this confederacy, decreed a general
diet or senate of some chosen out of every city from among all their
allies, to consult of the present state of affairs. And it was agreed
by common consent, that the senate should sit at Athens, and that
every city, whether great or small, should send only one representa-
tive, and every one should be governed by their own laws, but under
the conduct and administration of the Athenians.
However the Lacedæmonians, though they saw the current and
tide so strong as that they were not able to stem it, yet they endea-
voured all they could by fair words, and many specious promises, tą
court the deserters to return to their obedience, not neglecting in the
mean time to prepare for the war, inasmuch as they discerned that it
would be great and of long continuance, in regard the Athenians and
other Grecians (met together in that public assembly) all joined with
the Thebans.
Publius. Cornelius Tito. * Lucius Quintius.
Chap. III.
21
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
29. Whilst these things were acting in Greece, Acoris, king of Egypt,
for some time before bearing a grudge to the Persian king, raised a
great army of foreigners from all parts: for, giving large pay, and
being otherwise very bountiful, he got together a great number of
Grecians in a short time, who listed themselves into his service. But,
wanting a skilful general, he sent for Chabrias the Athenian, an ex-
cellent commander, and one highly honoured for his valour, who una
dertook the employment, but without the consent of the people, and
so prepared himself with all diligence for the war against the Per-
sians. But Pharnabazus (declared commander-in-chief by the king)
having made great preparations of money for the war, sent messen-
gers to Athens to complain against Chabrias, letting them know,
that, by bis accepting of the chief command under the king of Egypt,
he had greatly alienated the king of Persia from the people of Athens.
Then he demanded that they would send to him Iphicrates, to assist
him in the command of the army. Upon this the Athenians (who
made it their great concern to stand right in the king's good opinion,
and to keep Pharnabazus firm to their interest) without delay re-
called Chabrias out of Egypt, and commanded Iphicrates to assist
the Persians.
The Lacedæmonians and Athenians some years before had struck
up a peace amongst themselves, which continued to this very time.
But after that Sphodrias was made general by the Spartans, (a
man of a proud and haughty spirit, rash, and headstrong), Cleombro-
tus, the Lacedæmonian king, urged him on to surprise the Piræus at
Athens without the assent of the Ephori, To this end, being fur-
nished with ten thousand heavy-armed men, he attempts to enter the
Piræus in the night; but, the treachery being detected by the Athe-
nians, his project came to nought, and he returned as he came: and,
though he was brought before the senate at Sparta for this rash and
inconsiderate action, yet, being patronised by the kings, be was,
against all law and justice, discharged. The Athenians, being in-
censed with this apparent abuse, published a decree_That, in-
asmuch as the Lacedæmonians had openly violated the league, that
war should be made upon them for the repair of the injury. To
this end, therefore, Timotheus, Chabrias, and Callistratus, (men of
great account in the city, who were made generals for this expedi-
tion), were commissioned to raise twenty thousand foot of cors-
leteers, and five hundred horse, and to equip a fleet of two hun-
dred sail.
The Athenians likewise brought the Thebans, as members, into
the public senate, upon the same terms and conditions with the rest.
It was also enacted, by the suffrage of the senate _That the lands
22
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which had been divided by lot should be restored to the antient pro-
prietors; and that no Athenian should challenge a right to any
bands that lay out of Attica. By this fair dealing the Athenians re-
gained the love of the Grecians, and again strengthened themselves
30 in their government. 3 And this was the cause which moved many
other cities of Greece to side with the Athenians. The chiefest cities
of Eabea (except Acta) with great heat and zeal entered into an
association with Athens. But, in regard they of Acta had received
many kindnesses from the Lacedæmonians, and, on the other hand,
had been grievously oppressed and harassed by the Athenians, they
bore an implacable hatred towards the one, and stuck close and
firm in their alliance to the other. In the whole, there were seventy
cities that entered into this confederacy and association, all which
had voices upon the same terms and conditions in the senate. So
that the forces of the Athenians increasing every day, and those of
Sparta decreasing, these two cities began now again to lie in equal
ballance.
The Athenians therefore (who saw all things go forward accord-
ing to their heart's desire) transported forces into Eubea, both to
fix their confederates, and to suppress their foes. In this island one
Neogenes, a little before these times, with the assistance of Jason
of Pheris, with a band of men, had seized upon the citadel of Acta,
and declared himself king of those parts, and of the city Oropus*.
But, governing proudly and tyrannically, the Lacedæmonians sent
Therippidas against him, who at the first would have persuaded him
by fair means to leave the castle; but, when he could not be so
wrought upon, he stirred up the inhabitants near adjoining to recover
their liberty, and took the castle by storm, and restored the Oro-
pians to their former freedom. For this reason the Hestiæans al-
ways loved the Lacedæmonians, and kept a firm league of friendship
with them. But Chabrias, the general, with the forces sent from
Athens, wasted and spoiled the country of the Hestiæans, and
walled Metropolis, (as it is called), situated upon a hill naturally
fortified, and left there a garrison; and he himself sailed to the Cy-
clade islands, and reduced Peparethos and Sciathos, and others sub-
ject to the Lacedæmonians.
31 When the Lacedæmonians saw that they could not put a stop ta
the defection of their confederates, they laid aside their severity, and
took other measures to win the cities by more gentle methods: and
by these means they gained upon those of their confederates that were
yet left. And because they discerned that the war was coming on a-
* In Eubwa, now Negropont.
Chap. III.
83
DIODORUS SICULUS.'
pace, and that great care was required for the management of their
affairs, among other preparations, they diligently applied themselves to
put their army into a better posture, and more aptly to dispose of
their troops and regiments, and to have their forts and garrisons more
faithfully kept and secured: for they divided their cities and soldiers,
raised there for the present war, into ten parts: the first were Lace-
dæmonians; the second and third, Arcadians; the fourth, Elians;
the fifth, Achaians; the sixth, Corinthians and Megarensians; the
seventh, Sicyonians, Pbliasians, and Actaans; the eighth, Acar-
nanians; the ninth, Phocians and Locrians; the last, Olynthians and
confederates of Thrace. The manner and way of their order and
marshalling was this: one corsleteer, or heavy-armed soldier, was
accounted equal to two lightly armed; and one horseman to four
heavy-armed footmen. The army thus disposed, king Agesilaus was
made generalissimo: for he was famous both for his valour and pru-
dence, and never had been worsted in any encounter to that very
time; for, as he was highly admired in other wars, so in the war
by the Lacedæmonians against the Persians, he routed armies far
greater than his own, and bore down all before him, wasting and
spoiling a great part of Asia; and if the Spartans had not called him
home (through the urgency of affairs in his own country) he liad not
been far from ruining the whole kingdom of Persia: for he was a
man very brisk and daring, and yet withal prudent, addicting him-
self to great and noble actions; and therefore the Spartans (when
the greatness of the war required a skilful commander) chose him
to be general above all others.
Upon which, Agesilaus entered Bæotia with above eighteen thou-
sand foot, amongst whom were five regiments of Lacedæmonians,
every regiment consisting of five hundred. The Lacedæmonian
band called the Scirite*, joined not with the rest of the army; but
kept their proper post round about the king, and always were ready
to succour that part that was most prest upon. And because it was
made up of the best soldiers, it was of the greatest esteem of any
part of the army, and most commonly instrumental to the gaining
of every victory. Besides the foot before mentioned, Agesilaus had
with him fifteen hundred horse. As soon as he came to Thespis (a
Lacedæmonian garrison) he encamped near the city, to refresh his
army after their long march.
When the Athenians heard that the Lacedæmonians, bad entered
into Baotia, they forthwith sent five thousand foot and two hundred
horse to the aid of Thebes. The Thebans having mustered and ren-
dezvoused their forces, possessed themselves of a hill which ran out
* These were commonly six hundred.
32
24
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a great length, distant twenty stages from the city, and posted them-
selves there for the advantage of the ground, (being difficult of aca
cess), and there waited for the enemy: for the great reputation of
Agesilaus did so terrify them, that they durst not engage with him
upon equal terms in the open field. Agesilaus now advances with
his forces against the Bæotians; as soon as he came near the enemy,
(to make trial whether they had a mind to fight) he sent out against
them some light-armed men, which were soon beaten back by the
Thebans from the higher ground: upon which, to strike them with
'more terror, he drew out his whole army in battalia upon them.
Whereupon, Chabrias the Athenian, commander of the mercenaries,
ordered the soldiers to appear in a posture of defiance to the Lacedæ
monians: and to that end to stand to their ranks and orders, with
their shields laid down at their feet, and with their spears advanced,
so to present themselves to the view of the enemy, which they obeyed
at the first word of command. Agesilaus admiring their excellent
order, and contempt of their enemies, thought it not safe to attempt
to force up those steep places, and to try their valour at such disad-
vantage, having experienced, that by violent pressing upon them,
they would be necessitated to stand it out to the utmost extremity.
Therefore he did all he could to provoke them to descend into the
open plain; but when he could not get them to stir, he sent out a
phalanx of foot, and a party of light horse, and wasted and spoiled
the country without controul, and got together abundance of prey
and plunder. But those that were ordered to attend upon Agesilaus
as his council, and the colonels and 'captains of the regiments won-
dering that he, being ever accounted a valiant man, and a good sol-
dier, and now furnished with an army far stronger than the enemy,
should notwithstanding wave an engagement, Agesilaus gave them
this answer_That now the Lacedæmonians were conquerors without
fighting, since the Thebans durst not move out of their place to
give a stop to the spoiling of their country: and if he should force
them to fight after they had willingly yielded the victory, the un-
certain fortune of war might be such as might on a sudden ruin the
Lacedæmonians. The man by this conception seemed modestly
to foretel the event; for, that which followed after did clearly evince
That what he said was the oracle of God, and not the mere voice
of a man: for, the Lacedæmonians within a short time after, when
they set upon the Thebans with a numerous army, and forced them
to fight for their liberties, involved themselves in unspeakable cala
mities; for, in the first place, when they were routed at the battle
of Leuctra, a great number of their citizens were cut off, amongst
whom was their king Cleombrotus. And afterwards at the battle of
>
Chap. III.
25
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Mantinea they were utterly ruined; and (beyond all men's thoughts
of any such thing) quite lost the sovereignty of Greece --For, in this
fight (especially) fortune made it her busines to bring swift destruc-
tion upon the proud and haughty, and to teach men not to aspire be-
yond the bounds of moderation and modesty. So that Agesilaus
acted prudently in being content in his former good success, and
preserving his army entire without loss or prejudice.
Some time after, Agesilaus marchod back with his army into Pe-
loponnesus; but the Thebans, now delivered from the danger they
were in by the conduct of Chabrias, highly admired his witty strata-
gem; who, though he had performed many noble exploits in the wars,
yet he gloried more in this than in all others before, and by the fa-
vour of the people procured statues to be erected in memory of the
project, representing the thing as it was done.
The Thebans, after the departure of Agesilaus, set upon Thespis,
and killed the guard, which consisted of two hundred men; but
making several assaults upon the city, though all in vain, they drew
off, in order to return with their forces to Thebes. Upon which,
Phebidas, the Lacedaemonian, the governor of Thespis, (who kept the
place with a strong garrison), made a sally upon the Thebans in their
retreat, and through his pressing on too rashly, (after many wounds
received, and signalizing his valour), he lost his own life, and the lives
of above five hundred of his fellows.
Not long after, the Lacedæmonians marched against Thebes with
the same army: and then again the Thebans possessed themselves of
some other places that were of difficult access, by which means
they did indeed hinder the wasting and spoiling the country, but
dared not at first to engage with the enemy in the plain. But up-
on the appearance of Agesilaus in the van of the army, they be-
gan to march slowly towards him, and after a long time, the armies
at length engaged with great heat and fury. At the first Agesilaus
had the advantage: but when he discerned the whole city of Thebes
to sally out upon him, he sounded a retreat: whereupon the The-
bans judging themselves nothing inferior to the Lacedæmonians,
erected a trophy, and never after hesitated to engage with the Spartans.
And this was the issue of the fights by land.
But about the same time there was a great fight at sea, between
Naxos and Paros, upon this occasion : Pollis, the Lacedæmonian
admiral, had intelligence of a great quantity of corn that was pass-
ing by sea to Athens; upon which, he made it his business to lie in
wait to surprise the transport ships. The Athenians being informed
of the design, sent out a fleet to guard the ships loaden with the pro-
visions, and brought them all into the Piræus.
Vol. 2. No, 40,
26
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
After this, Chabrias the Athenian admiral sailed with the whole
fleet to Naxos, and besieged it, and battering it with his engines,
used his utmost endeavours to take it by storm: but while he was
earnest in prosecuting his design, Pollis the Lacedæmonian admiral
came up
with his fleet tv the assistance of the Naxians:
upon
which
the fleets engaged, charging one another in a line of battle. Pollis
had a navy of sixty-five sail, and Chabrias eighty-three. Pollis in
the right wing valiantly charged the Athenians in the left, commanded
by Cedon the Athenian, whom he killed, and sunk his vessel. He
fell likewise upon others, and broke some of them in pieces with the
beaks of his ships, and put the rest to flight. Which Chabrias dis-
cerning, he ordered some ships near him to the relief of those that
were overpowered, and so rescued them. He himself, with the great-
est part of the fleet under his command, with great valour broke in
pieces and took many of the enemy's gallies. But however, though
he obtained the victory, and put the enemy's whole fleet to flight,
yet he would not pursue, remembering the battle at Arginusæ,where,
though the Athevians were victorious, yet the people, instead of a
reward, put the officers to death, only because they did not bury their
parents who were killed in that fight. Fearing therefore the like fate,
he waved the pursuit, and took up the citizens swimming and float-
ing here and there, and so preserved those that were alive, and or-
dered the dead to be buried. In this battle the Athenians lost eigh-
teen gallies, and the Lacedænianians four-and-twenty; eight were
taken with all the men.
Chabrias, crowned with this glorious victory, returned with great
and rich spoils to the Piræus, and was received by the citizens with
great honour and acclamation. This was the first victory at sea
gained by the Athenians since the Peloponnesian war; for, at Cnidus
they prevailed not by the strength of their own forces, but by the as.
sistance of the king of Persia,
While these things were acted in Greece, Marcus Manlius was
put to death at Rome for aspiring to the monarchy.
Chap. IV.
277
DIODORUS SICULUR.
CHAP. IV.
The Triballians make incursions into Thrace. Chabrias the Athe-
nian general assassinated. The Thebans rout the Spartans at
Orchomenus. Artuxerxes seeks to make peace among the Gre.
cians. Peace concluded. The Thebans only disagreed. The
commendation of Epaminondas. Seditions in several cities of
Greece.
WHEN Chariander was archon at Athens, and Servius Sulpitius,
Lucius Papirius, Cornelius Titus*, and Marcus Quintiust, four
military tribunes, were in consular dignity at Rome, the hundred and
first olympiad was celebated at Elis, and Damon of Thurium bore
away the prize. At that time the Triballians in Thrace (being in great
scarcity of corn) made an incursion with thirty thousand armed men,
into the territories of their neighbours to get provisions. To that end
they entered the borders of the Abderites in another part of Thrace,
and wasted and spoiled the country without any opposition; and hav-
ing loaden themselves with abundance of plunder, they returned so
carelesly and disorderly, as that the whole city of Abdera falling up-
on them when they were scattered and dispersed, killed above two
thousand of them. To revenge which, the exasperated barbarians
made a second inroad into the country of the Abderites. But they,
being encouraged by the late victory, and strengthened with the as
sistance of the neighbouring Thracians, drew up in battalia against
the barbarians. The armies furiously engaged, when on a sudden
the Thracians drew off and left the Abderites to themselves, who
were presently hemmed in by the barbarians, and almost every man
cut off.
As soon as this grievous slaughter of the Abderites was noised a-
broad, and they were now ready to be besieged, Chabrias the Athe,
nian arrived, with his army, and not only delivered the Abderites,
but drove the barbarians out of the country: and, after he had
strengthened the city with a strong garrison, he was basely assas-
sinated, but by whom was not known. Upon this; Timotheus was
made admiral of the Athenian feet, and, sailing to Cepbalenia, he
blocked up the city with his vavy, and wrought upon the cities of
Acarnania to side with the Athenians. Presently after, he entered
into a league with Acetas, king of the Molossians; and now, having
in his power all the countries subject to the cities in those parts, he
• Marcus Cornelius,
† Titus Quintius.
28
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
routed the Lacedæmonians in a sea-fight at Leucades; and all this
he did in a very short time, and with much ease, partly by fair words,
and partly by force of arms and his excellent conduct; so that he not
only gained esteem and reputation amongst his own fellow-citizens,
but likewise amongst all the Grecians. And thus was it with Timo-
theus at this time.
During these transactions, the Thebans (with five hundred of the
most valiant men of their city) marched against Orchomenus, and
performed an exploit worthy of 'memory. The Spartans kept this
city with a strong garrison, and, making a sally upon the Thebans,
there was a sharp encounter, in which they routed the Lacedæmo-
nians, though they were double in number, which never happened to
them before in any age; but the thing might have been borne well
enough, if they had been few, and had been conquered by the far
greater number. Henceforth the courage of the Thebans increased,
and they grew every day famous for their valour; and now it was
apparent, that they were likely to gain the sovereignty of all Greece.
As to the writers of this time, Hermeias of Methymna ends his history
of the affairs of Sicily with this year, comprehended in ten, but, as
others divide them, in twelve books.
The year following, when Hippodamus was chief magistrate of
Athens, and four military tribunes, viz. Lucius Valerius*, Crispust
Manlius, Fabius Serviliusf, and Sulpitius Lucretiuss, were Roman
consuls, Artaxerxes used his utmost endeavour to quiet all things in
Greeoe, that he might raise the more mercenaries for the carrying on
the war against the Egyptians: for by this means he hoped the Gre-
cians, being freed from domestic broils, would be in a condition to as-
sist him abroad. To this end, he sent ambassadors into Greece, to
negotiate in this affair amongst all the cities. And this embassy was
very acceptable to the Grecians, who were nearly tired out with con-
tinual wars; so that a general peace was concluded upon these condi-
tions_That all the cities should for the future be governed by their
own laws, and all the garrisons be withdrawn. And there were cer-
tain Grecians appointed as commissioners to see the garrisons drawn
out; who accordingly went to every city where there was any soldiers,
and ordered them to leave the place,
In the mean time, the Thebans only, through every town, disa-
greed to these terms, and exempted all Bootia, as tributary only to
themselves: but the Athenians opposed this with all earnestness, and
this affair was banded in the common assembly of the Greeks, by
Callistratus, a tribune of the people, on the behalf of the Athenians,
• Lucius Valerius Crispus. + Aulus Manlius. Servius Sulpitius
Lucius Lucretius.
Chap. IV.
29
DIODORUS SICULUS.
:
and by Epaminondas on the behalf of the Thebans; after which, all
the rest of the Grecians persisted in their resolution to stand to the
league, leaving out the Thebans, who (relying upon the wisdom and
prudence of Epaminondas) boldly opposed the decree made by the
general assembly.
For, seeing that the Lacedæmonians and Athenians had been all
along hitherto contesting for the sovereign command of Greece, and
at length had agreed upon these terms_That the Lacedæmonians
should have the command at land, and the Athenians at sea, they
were very uneasy to think that now a third should carry away the
sovereignty from them both; for which reason they would not allow
the cities of Boeotia to be under the power of the Thebans. But the
Thebans (who were men of strong bodies and stout hearts, and had
lately beaten the Lacedæmonians in several fights) bore themselves
very high, and were in hopes to gain the sovereign command at land.
Neither were they frustrated in their design, for the reasons before
mentioned, and likewise because they had at that time many excel-
lent officers and valiant commanders, amongst whom the most fa-
mous were Pelopidas, Gorgias, and Epaminondas; which last was
not only the best and most expert commander of any of his own
country, but even of all the Grecians, and was likewise a man of
great learning in the liberal sciences, and especially in the Pytha-
gorean philosophy; being, besides, of excellent natural parts, and
mother-wit, it was no wonder if he exceeded others in performing
those things that were more than ordinarily remarkable. For, with a
small body of men, he engaged with the whole power of the Lacedæ-
monians and their confederates, and so routed those (formerly un-
conquerable) warriors, that he killed their king Cleombrotus, and cut
off almost the whole army of the Spartans. And, by the advantage of
his singular wisdom, and virtuous and liberal education, such things
were performed hy him as were admirable beyond all expectation; of
which we shall speak more fully hereafter, when we come to treat
particularly of those things.
But now, to return to the course of our history. It was agreed
That every city should govern according to their own laws; but
presently after, all the cities were again involved in great tumults and
seditions, especially those in Peloponnesus. Some few of these had
been enslaved in the late domineering time, and, being now restored
to their democratical government, they made but an ill improvement
of it; for they banished many honest citizens that were falsely ac-
cused, and as unjustly condemned; and, by the prevailing power of
the seditious, nothing was more frequent than banishment and con-
fiscation of goods, and those chiefly were the sufferers that had been
30
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
magistrates in the time of the Lacedæmonian government; for, be-
cause in those times they carried it something imperiously towards
the people, not with that regard to justice as they ought, now that the
commonalty were restored to their liberty, they too much resented
their former injuries.
The exiles, therefore, of Phialia were the first that consulted and
joined together, and seized upon Herea, a strong and well fortified
castle, and from thence made frequent incursions into the territories
of Phialia; and, at the time when the feasts of Bacchus were cele-
brated, (upon the sudden), they rushed upon the people in the theatre,
and cut many of their throats, having before persuaded a consider-
able number to join with them in this wicked confederacy; and
afterwards they returned to Sparta. Then the exiles of Corinth, who
were in great numbers at Argos, determined to force their own re-
turn. In order hereunto, some of their servants and friends were re-
ceived into the city; but the thing being discovered to the magis-
trates, they could not lie long concealed, but, being just ready to be
seized (through fear of punishment) they killed one another. But
the Corinthians, upon suspicion that many of the citizens were con-
cerned in the plot, pat several to death, and banished others.
In the city of Megara, likewise, some were contriving how to
overturn the government, who, being convicted of the treason, many
were put to death, and not a few banished. So, at Sicyon, many were
executed upon a full conviction, for endeavouring to bring in inno-
vations. At length many of the Phialian exiles, having seized upon
a castle in that territory, got together a great army of mercenaries,
and fought with the townsmen, and got the day, having killed above
three hundred of the Phialians. But, not long after, the exiles were
betrayed by their guard, and routed by them of Phialia, with the loss
of six hundred men; and the rest, being forced out of the country,
fled to Argos. And such was the miserable condition of Peloponnesus
at that time.
Chap. V.
31
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. V.
The Persians send an army into Egypt, to reduce the revolters.
Iphicrates a skilful commander. Sedition at Zacynthus. Platæq
razed by the Thebans. The Lacedæmonians seize upon the
island Corcyra: relieved by the Athenians under Ctesias. Eva-
goras murdered in Cyprus by an eunuch. Dreadful earth-
quakes and innunilations in Peloponnesus. A great comet seen in
Greece,
SOCRATIDES the ensuing year was archon at Athens, and Quintus
Crassus*, Servilius Cornelius, Spurius Papirius, and Fabius Albust,
four military tribunes, executed the office of consuls at Rome. At
that time the king of Persia marched against the Egyptians (who had
revolted some time before). The army was commanded by Pharna-
bazus, and Iphicrates the Athenian; the barbarians by Pharnabazus,
and twenty thousand mercenaries by Iphicrates, who was in so much
favour with the king for his excellent conduct, that he intrusted bim
with that command. Pharpabazus had spent many years in prepara-
tion for this war.
Iphicrates, therefore, knowing the readiness of his tongue, and the
slowness of his actions, one day accosted him in this manner_That
he wondered that one who was so voluble in his speech, should be
so slow in his actions. To which Pharnabazus answered.
That he
was master of his words, but the king of his actions. When the
king's forces came to Acest, in Syria, and were there mustered,
there were found two hundred thousand barbarians, to be under the
conduct of Pharnabazus, and twenty thousand Grecians, under
the command of Iphicrates. The number of the navy was three
hundred gallies, of three tier of oars on a bank, and two hundred of
thirty oars a-piece, and a vast number of transport-ships, to carry
provisions, and other things necessary for the army.
About the beginning of the spring the officers, with all the forces
both at sea and land, made for Egypt. When they came near to the
river Nile, they found the Egyptians ready, and prepared for bat-
tle; for Pharnabazus had been very tedious in this expedition, and
had given the enemy time enough to prepare for their defence; for
it is the constant practice of the Persian generals (in regard they
have no absolute power) upon every special occasion to send to the
Servilius, t Lucius Æmilius, * Ace, or Ptolenjais, in Phænicia.
31
Book X
DIODORUS 'SICULUS.
ing therefore gained much experience and judgment in martial dis-
cipline, by his long and continued exercise in the wars of Persia, he
found out many things of great advantage in matters of war, espe-
cially he employed himself in contriving the making of new sorts of
arms.
It was hitherto a custom among the Grecians to carry great and
heavy shields: but, because these by their weight much hindered the
soldiers in their march, he changed the form of them, and ordered
targets of a moderate size in their room: in which alteration he had
a respect to two things, one, that their bodies should be sufficiently
defended, and, by the other, that by their lightuess they might be
the more easily managed. Experience presently approved the in-
vention, and they who from their heavy arms were before called
Hopliti, heavy-armed men, were from these new targets called Pel-
tasti, targeteers. He changed likewise the fashion of their spears
and swords. The spears he caused to be made half as long again as
they were before, and the swords longer almost by two parts.
This alteration was presently approved by use and experience, and
the reputation of the general was highly advanced by the usefulness
of his ingenious inventions. Lastly, he altered the very soldier's
shoes, that they might be sooner put on, easier to march 'with, and
more readily cast off; and therefore they are called at this very day
Iphicratics. He inverted many other things belonging to martial
affairs, which would be too tedicus here to relate. But thus all that
great preparation for an expedition into Egypt came to nothing.
During these affairs, the new frame of government throughout all
Greece filled the cities with tumult and commotion; and because of
the anarchy in most places, seditions abounded. Those who were for
an oligarchy, had the Lacedæmonians to patronise them; and those
that appeared for a democracy were protected by the Athenians: for
both the cities for awhile kept the league made between them in-
riolable. But upon their siding with the cities, as they were inclined
(
to the one or the other), without any regard to the former articles of
the peace, they presently broke out into war.
At that time the inhabitants of Zacynthus, --being enraged against
their magistrates, (encouraged thereunto under the protection of the
Lacedæmonians, and provoked with the memory of their former in-
juries), drove them all out of the city; who fled to Timotheus the A-
thenian admiral, and were received into the feet, and joined with
him in the war. He patronised their cause, and transported them
into:he island, (where they seized upon a strong castle called Arcadia),
and, by the assistance of Timotheus, very much molested and injured
the townsmen. They of Zacynthus desired aid of the Lacedæmo-
:
Chap. D.
35
DIODORUS SICULUS.
nians, who first, (before they would begin a war), sent to the people
of Athens, and by their ambassadors accused Timotheus: but when they
discerned that they inclined to favour the exiles, they bestirred them-
selves to equip out a fleet; and having manned thirty-five gallies,
they sent them to the aid of the Zacynthians, under the command of
Aristocrates.
Whilst these things were in doing, some in Corcyra that favoured
the Lacedæmoniaus, appeared against the people, and sent to Sparta
to be assisted with all speed with some shipping, promising to de-
liver up Corcyra into their hands. Upon which, they (knowing very
well the importance of that island for the recovery of the dominion
at sea) hastened away to get possession. And to that end com
manded Alcidas to pass over to Corcyra with two-and-twenty sail;
they giving out, that this fleet was to go for Sicily, but in truth with
a design, (under colour of being friends to the Corcyriang), by the
help of the exiles, to sieze upon the city. But the inhabitants coming to
understand the fraud and intended cheat of the Lacedæmopians, strong
ly fortified the place, and kept diligent watch and ward, and sent am-
bassadors to Athens for assistance. Upon which the people decreed to
send succours furthwith, both to the Corcyrians and to them of Zacyn-
thus; whereupon Ctesicles was presently sent to Zacynthus to com-
mand the exiles: but the fleet to be sent to Corcyra was but then fitting
out. In the mean time they of Platæa having entered into a league
with the Athenians, and decreed to deliver up their city into their pro- .
tection, sent for a garrison from Athens. At which the governors
of Boeotia being exceedingly offended, (to prevent the Athenians),
forthwith led out a great army against the Platzans; and having
entered the confines of Platæa, (by this sudden and unexpected ir,
ruption), they found many of the citizens straggling in the fields, who
were presently snapped up by the horsemen; the rest fed into the
city, aod, having no confederates to assist them, were forced to de-
liver themselves up, upon such terms and conditions as the enemy
was pleased to allow them: for they were to leave the city, and take
with them only their household goods, and never more to set foot
in Bæetia. After this, the Thebans razed Platæa, and took Thes-
pis (that sided against them) by assault. The Platæans fled to Athens
with their wives and children, and were there kindly received into
the franchises and liberties of the city. And in this condition stood
the affairs of Baotia all that time. The Lacedæmonians had now
Sent Mnasippus with a fleet of sixty-five sail, and fifteen hundred men
under bis comniand to Corcyra, which, after he arrived at the island,
and had taken the exiles on board, he sailed into the haven, and pre-
sently possessed himself of four of their gallies, and forced the rest
upon land, which they of Corcyra burnt, to prevent their falling into
36
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
amazement.
the enemy's hands :' he routed them, likewise, in a land-fight,
(though they had advantageously possessed themselves of a hill),
insomuch, that all the Corcyrians every where were in fear and
The Athenians liad some ime ! ufore sent Timotheus,
the son of Conon, to the aid of the Corcyriars, wi li a navy of sixty
sail; but, before he came in tu succour them, he sailed into Thrace,
and brought over many of the cities there to the Athenian interest,
and enlarged his feet with thirty sail: hat, because he came too
late to the assistance of them of Corcyra, the people of Athens were
very angry at him, and took away his commission; yet, when he re-
turned to Athens with a great number of ambassadors, who came
along with him to confirin the leagues with the Athenians, and be-
sides, brouglit in the fleet in good order, being more than they were
by thirty sail, the people rescinded the former decree, and restored
him to his command.' Before this they had likewise prepared forty
gallies more, (so that their whole fleet was fourscore), and had made
also plentiful provision of corn, arms, and all other things necessary
for the war: hut, for the present, they sent five hundred men to the
aid of them of Corcyra, under the command of Ctesias, who entered
privately in the vight into Corcyra, where he found the townsmen in
bad circumstances, by the sedition, and their ill management of af-
fairs relating to the war: but forthwith, quieting all parties, he made
it his business to put all things in a posture of defence, and by this
means pui heart and courage into the besieged. In the first place,
he made a sally, and cut off two hundred of the enemy. Presently
after, in a sharp engagement, he killed Muasippus and many of his
arnıy. And now, when the war was almost at an end in Corcyra, ar-
rived 'Í'imotheus avd Iphicrates, with the Athenian feet; who, coming
too late, did nothing worth remembering, save that they took nine
gallies, men and all, sent by Dionysius out of Sicily to the assistance
of the Lacedaemonians, under the command of Cassidas* and Crinip-
pus, and by the sale of the captives raised three score talents, with
which they paid off the soldiers.
While these things were acting, Nicocles, an eunuch in Cyprus,
treacherously murdered king Evagoras, and made himself king of
Salamis. Iu Itály, the Romans fought with the Prænestines, and routed
and killed many of them.
Afterwards, when Asteius was chief magistrate at Athens, and six
military tribunes, viz. Marcus Furius, Lucius Furius, Aulus Posthu-
mius, Lucius Lucretius, Marcus Fabius, and Lucius Posthumius, exe-
cuted the office of consuls at Rome, there happened such dreadful
carthquakes and innundations in Peloponnesus, (throughout all the
>
1
I
* Cissides.
Chap. 7.
37
DIODORUS SICULUS.
cities, and over all the country), that'are incredible to relate. For,
never in any former age did the like calamity fall upon the Grecian
cities, which were now swallowed up, together with their inhabitants;
and certainly some divine power contrived and executed this remark-
able ruin and destruction of mankind: nay, the time when it was
done added to the greatness of the calamity. For the earthquakes
happened not in the day, (when the distressed might have found out
some way or other to have helped themselves), but in the night,
when the houses, by the violence of the shake, fell down in confused
heaps; so that (by the darkness of the night, and the suddenness of
the ruin) men' were in that perplexity, that they knew not which
way to turn themselves for security; insomuch that the greatest part
of the inhabitants (buried in the rubbish of the houses) miserably
perished. But, as soon as it was day, some came running out of the
houses, and, thinking they had escaped the danger, fell into a far
greater and unexpected mischief; for, the sea raged to that degree,
and broke in with that violence, that it swallowed up them and their
houses together
• Two cities of Achaia, one called Helice, and the other Bura, chiefly
suffered by this sad accident: of which two, Helice was of the greatest
account of
any
of the cities of Achaia.
· There was a very hot dispute concerning the cause of this evil.
Indeed the natural philosophers do generally ascribe all such events
to patural causes, and necessary circumstances, and not to any divine
hand; but they who have more reverend thoughts and sentiments of
a deity, give a very probable account of this matter: that this de
struction was the effect of the anger of the gods, for the impious
violation of the rights of religion, of which we shall give a more
particular account. The three cities of Ionia were accustomed to
have a general assembly of all the Ionians at Mycale, and there-
abouts, where, in a certain solitary place, (according to antient rites),
they offered many costly sacrifices to Neptune; which Panionim*
festivals the Ionians, not being able to solemnize at that place, by
reason of the frequent wars and disturbances, they removed those as-
semblies to a more secure place not far from Ephesus. But, send-
ing to Delphos, to consult there with the oracle, they were com-
manded to take images from the most antient altars of their fore-
fathers (meaning from Helice, a city of the country formerly called
lonia, but now Achaia). Upon this they declared in the public as-
sembly of the Achaians the occasion of their embassy, and desired
them to grant their request. But they of Helice had an antient
prophecy_That then they would be in the greatest danger, when
• Pan Ionian, a general festival of the Ionians.
38
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS
the lonians sacrificed upon the altar, of Neptune. Remembering
this, therefore, they would not suffer the lonians to take the images,
alleging, that the temple was not common to all the Achaians, but
peculiar to themselves only. The same addresses were made to
them of Bura, who were of the same mind with those of Helice.
However, the Ionians, by public edict of the Athenians, (that the
prophecy might be fulfilled); offered sacrifices upon the altar of
Neptune, Upon this they of Helice seized upon all the goods of the
Ionians, and committed the ambassadors to prison, and so carried it
very impiously towards the deity: therefore they say that Neptune,
being angry, to revenge himself upon their impiety, (by these earth-
quakes and ingandations of the sea), brought this grievous calamity
upon those cities. And that it was done by him, they use this for an
argument..That it is generally believed that this god hath the power
of innundations and earthquakes in his own, land; and that Pelo-
ponnesus had been ever reputed the habitation of Neptune, and the
country dedicated to hiin, and that all the Peloponnesian cities wor-
shipped this god above all others. Besides this, they give a further
reason of this sad accident. There are (as they say) in Peloponnesus
great cavities under ground, which, by the sea flowing here and
there through the earth, are turned into great ponds and lakes of
water. And, indeed, it is very certain that there are two rivers in
that peninsula which apparently fall into the caverns of the earth:
for the rivers which run by Pheneus* in former ages .sunk in one
place into the earth, and became invisible, beiug swallowed up in
these caveras under ground. Anothert was lost at a great opening
of the earth at Stympliust, and ran unseen under ground for the
space of two hundred stages, and rose up again near the city of Argos,
To what is related is further added-
_That none suffered but only
they, who were guilty of the impiety before mentioned. And this
shall suffice to be said of the earthquakes and innundations in Pelo-
ponnesus.
When Alcisthenes was chief magistrate of Athens, and eight mili.
tary tribunes, viz. Lucius Valeriusſ, Publius Ancius, Caius Teren-
tius, Lucius Menenius, Caius Sulpitius, Titus Papirius, Lucius Æmi,
lius, and Fabius Marcus!l, bore the consular authority at Rome, the
hundred and second Olympiad was celebrated at Elis, wherein Da,
mon the Tburian was victor. At that time God (by some signs and
prodigies) foretold the fall of the Lacedaemonian sovereignty over
Greece, after they had enjoyed it near five hundred years: for a
great comet (which, from its shape, was called the Fiery Beam) was
• A city in Arcadia. + Erasenus river. Stymplialas, in Arcadia.
Lucius Publius Valerius.
Marcus Fabius,
NE
Chap. vi.
39
DIODORUS SICULUS.
seen in the heavens several nights. And, not long after, the Lace-
dæmonians being overcome in a great: battle, suddenly (beyond all
men's imagination) lost their dominion. Some among the natural
philosophers ascribe the origin of this comet to proceed from natur-
ral causes, and say that these sort of meteors, at some stated times,
do happen of necessity; and that the eminent Chaldeans in Baby-
fon, and other astrologers, have certaiuly and exactly foretold the
appearance of these comets; and that it is not surprising such
things do happen accordingly, but that it would be a great wonder
if they did not, seeing that all things have their proper courses and
turns; and at length, by incessant motions, are brought into action
in fixed and stated times and seasons. It is related, that this
comet was so 'very light, that it cast a shadow upon the eartha like
the moon, is om
,-", ".
:).-L'
CHAP. VI.
+
Artaxerses sends again to make peace among the Grecians. All
comply except the Thebans. The Spartans raise an army a-
gainst the Thebans. Epaminondas made tlie Theban general.
The famous battle of Leuctra. The terrible seditions and
cruelties in Argos. Jason of Pheræ' stirs up the Thessalonians
to gain the sovereignty of Greece. :: Pollydorus, prince of Phere
in Greece, poisoned by his brother Alexander. A plot to de-
pose Alexander. The king of Macedonia treated with to that
purpose.
storie
ABOUT this time Artaxerxes, king of Persia, hearing that Greece
was fallen into new broils, sent ambassadors again, to exhort them to
live in peace one with another, according to the late establishment.
The Grecians readily complied with the advice, and all made peace
again among themselves, except the Thebais: for they were not ad-
mitted into the leagae, because they challenged all Boeotia to be
under their own govertiment. And it was decreed that all the cities
should be bound by oath to observe the league. ..Being therefore
excluded, (as they were before), they kept Boeotia under the splejaris-
diction of their own city. Upon which the Lacedeinonians, being
enraged, resolved to make war upon them, as alie common enemies
40
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Book X
of Greece. For their growing power began to be suspected, lest
(being masters of all Boeotia) they should some time or other find
an opportunity to deprive Sparta of the sovereign command; espe-
cially, because they were a warlike nation, inferior to none in Greece,
and, by their daily exercise in the public schools, their bodies became
far stonger; and besides, they had many valiant commanders, espe-
cially three, Epaminondas, Gorgias, and Pelopidas. And to this
may be added, that the Thebans, by reason of the nobility of their
ancestors, (who were famous in the heroic times), were of proud and
lordly spirits, and ever aspiring to great matters. Upon this ac-
count the Lacedæmonians this year raised an army, composed of
their own citizens, and of their confederates, and prepared themselves
for war,
When Phrasichides was lord-chancellor of Athens, and the Ro-
mans appointed eight military tribunes to execute the office of con-
suls, viz. Publius Manlius, Caius Erenucius, Caius Sextius, Tiberius
Julius*, Lucius Labiniust, Publius Fibonius, Caius Manlius, and
Lucius Antistius, the Thebans, excluded from the common league,
were forced, by their own strength alone, to bear the brunt of the war
against the Lacedæmonians: for, by the articles of the peace, (ratified
and confirmed by all), none of the cities were to send them any aid or
relief. Therefore the Lacedæmonians, (now that the Thebans were
wholly deserted), decreed a war against them, and were resolved to
subject Thebes to the Lacedæmonian state. And, forasmuch as all
observed that the Lacedæmonians made extraordinary preparations,
and that the Thebans, on the other hand, had none to stand by them,
every body was of opinion that they would be easily conquered by the
Spartans. And therefore all that wished them well were much trou-
bled and concerned for them, to see their inevitable ruin approaching.
But their enemies, on the contrary, rejoiced as if the Thebans were
even already subdued.
When the Lacedæmonians had raised their army, they created
Cleombrotus general; and, in the first place, sent ambassadors to
Thebes, to demand that all the cities of Bæotia should be allowed
to govern themselves according to their own laws; and that Platæa
and Thespis should be rebuilt, and that those territories should be
Testored to the antient proprietors. To which the Thebanş an-
swered_That, as they did not concern themselves with the matters
of Laconia, so the Lacedæmonians ought not to meddle with the
affairs of Beotia. Upon receiving this answer, the Lacedæmonians
(without any further delay) ordered Cleombrotus to march with the
army against Thebes. And the Lacedæmonian confederates wene
* Lucius Julius. † Marcus Albipius.
}
Chap. DT.
41
DIODORUS SICULUB.
very ready to join in this war, hoping that the Baotians would be
subdued with little or no fighting, and without any great labour
or pains.
Marching on, therefore, they encamped ät Charonea, and there
waited for their confederates, who came in but slowly. In the mean
time the Thebans, hearing of the enemy's march, sent their wives
and children for security to Athens. Then they made Epaminondas
general of the army, and intrusted him with the management of the
whole war, joining with him six Bæutians, and governors of Bæotia,
as his council. He listed whoever was of an age able and fit to bear
arms among the Thebans, and likewise among the other Boeotians,
and, having now an army not above six thousand, with these he
marched out of Thebes; at which instant of time some prodigies
were seen, which forboded no good success: for, as they were going
out at the gates, there met them an herald, who (according to antient
custom) led a blind man (that had run away) and cried aloud Bring
him not out of Thebes, nor put him to death, but carry him back a=
gain, and save his life. The old men took this cry of the herald for
an evil sign; but the young men held their peace, lest, by their
timorousness; they should seem to have a desire to dissuade Epami-
nondas from the expedition he had undertaken. To those that were
pressing upon him first to consider well of these presages, he ans
swered in this verse
It is a happy sign to fight for his countrị.
Such a frank resolution had no sooner abashed, and caused all
those that were timorous to blush, but another prodigy more fright-
ful happened. For a secretary went before, carrying a javelin, to
which a scroll was annexed, to signify tliat the army was to obey the
orders and commands of their generals. It fell out that a high wind
blew off this scroll, and fixed it upon a pillar of a tomb, in which very
place some Lacedæmonians and Peloponnesians who formerly fol-
lowed Agesilaus were buried, and had been there slain: upon whichi
the antient men again, with protestations, dissuaded him from going
any farther with the army, seeing the gods so evidently opposed
the design. But the general returned them no answer, but cheerfully
marched on, preferring at that time the honesty and justice of his
cause before uncertain observations and conclusions upon signs and
prodigies. And though Epaminondas, who was a great philosopher,
managed all this affair with great prudence and discretion, yet in the
mean time he incurred the censure of many. But not long after,
when the success of the action evinced the excellency of his military
conduct, we see him instrumental in performing many things to the
great advantage and service of his country. For he marched away
VOL. 2. No. 40.
a
a
42
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
directly, and gained the straits near Chæronea, and encamped there.
Cleombrotus, when he heard that the enemy had possessed them-
selves of that pass, not looking upon it feasible to regain it, turned
aside another way, by Phocis, and marched along by the sea-shore,
where, though the way was very rugged and difficult, yet at length
he came, without any prejudice, to the confines of Bæotia : but in
his passage he took some small towns, and gained some gallies.
At last he arrived at Leuctra, and there encamped, and refreshed
his army.
In the mean time the Beotians, marching forward, drew near to
the enemy; and, as soon as they recovered the hills, and saw the
greatness of the Lacedæmonian army, covering the plains of Leuctra,
they were not a little amazed. Hereupon the Bæotarchs called a
council of war, to consider whether it were advisable to go on, and
fight upon such unequal terms, or else to march back, and engage
with the enemy in some more commodious place. It happened that
upon this consultation the votes were equal: for, there being six of
these Beotarchs, or governors of Bæotia, three were for going back,
and the other three for abiding where they were, and to try their
fortune by a battle, of which last number Epaminondas was one.
While the matter stood thus doubtful, and nothing could be deter-
mined, the seventh Bæotarch at length came in, and Epaminondas
persuaded him to give his vote on his side, and so he carried it. And
thus it was determined to lay all at stake, and try it out by a battle.
Epaminondas then, perceiving that the soldiers were still supersti-
tiously possessed with the former ominous signs and prodigies, en-
deavoured, by all the art and industry he possibly could, to remove
these opinions aud suspicions of his soldiers. To this end, upon
some persons coming newly into the camp from Thebes, he caused a
report to be spread abroad, that all the arms that hung up in Her-
cules's temple were on a sudden gone, and not to be found, and that
it was commonly noised in Thebes That the antient heroes had
taken them away, and were gone out to the assistance of the The-
bans. He suborned, likewise, another to say he lately came up out
of Trophonius's* cell, and he affirmed that the oracle there com-
manded bim to tell them _That, when they had gained the victory
at Leuctra, they should institute the Coronet festivals to Jupiter.
From whence arose that custom of keeping a yearly solemnity by the
Baotians at Lebadea. And besides this skill and prudence of the ge-
• This Trophonius was said to be the son of Apollo, and had a temple at Lebadea, in
Baotia, dedicated to him, where was a cave, of which strange things are related See
Steph. and others. Pausan. lib. 9, C, 39, a large description, and by his own expesia
ence, as he says.
Chap. VI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
43
neral, Leandras the Spartan (who was banished from Lacedæmon,
and then in arms with the Thebans) was not a little serviceable in
this affair: for, being called into the assembly, he affirmed that the
Spartans had an antient prophecy_That, when they were beaten by
the Thebans at Leuctra, they should lose their principality. At
length some of the inhabitants of the country, who undertook to in-
terpret the oracles, came to Epaminondas, and declared that it was
decreed by the gods-_That a great slaughter should be made of the
Lacedæmonians at the tombs of the daughters of Leuctrus and Sche-
dasus, for the reasons herein after related. Leuctrus was he from
whom the field was so called; and his daughters, and the daughters
of one Schedasus, virgins, in the flower of their age, were deflowered
by the Spartan ambassadors: the young women, not able to endure
that great dishonour and disgrace, (with many imprecations a-
gainst that nation who sent such wicked ambassadors), laid vio-
lent bands on themselves. When these and other such like things
were alleged, Epaminondas called the soldiers together, and, in
an oration fitted for the purpose, encouraged them to the battle;
upon which the soldiers (being now freed from their supersti-
tious conceits) changed their minds, and longed to be engaged with
the enemy.
About this time came some auxiliary forces to the Thebans from
Thessaly, fifteen hundred foot, and five hundred horse, under the
command of Jason. This man advised both the Thebans and the
Lacedæmonians (upon consideration of the uncertainty of the events
of war) to agree upon terms of peace; which took its effect, And
now Cleombrotus withdrew his forces out of Bæotia, and in his
march a great army from the Lacedæmonians and their confederates,
under the command of Archidamus, the son of Agesilaus, met him.
For the Spartans, seeing the courage and resolution of the Boeotians,
and not judging it advisable to slight men that seemed to be resolved,
and to run upon the pikes at all adventures, had sent forth this their
army (by their multitude at least) to give a check to the insolence of
the enemy. Drawing up, therefore, in a body together, (and looking
upon it as a base and mean thing, below the dignity of he Spartans,
so much as to think the valour of the Bæotians worthy of any re-
gard), without any respect to the late league, they rashly and pre-
cipitately returned to Leuctra, where they found the Bæotians (with
great earnestness) expecting and desiring a battle. Upon this, the
armies on both sides were drawn up in battalia in this manner.On
the part of the Lacedæmonians, Cleombrotus and Archidamus the
son of Agesilaus (both descended from Hercules) commanded the two
wings; on the other side, Epaminondas marshalled his army after
44
Book XV,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
new and peculiar manner, by which excellent stratagem he gained
that glorious victory never to be forgotten; for he chose out of the
whole army the best and strongest of the soldiers, and placed them
in that wing where he himself would command; in the other he
placed his weaker men, with a command not to abide the enemy's
charge, but, by a soft and slow retreat, to avoid the shock. Having
therefore thus ordered an oblique phalanx, he resolved to try the for-
tune of the day with the other wing, under his command. And now
the trumpets sounded a charge on both sides, and, at the first onset,
the armies set up a great shout: the Lacedæmonians came on with
both their wings in' fashion of an half moon; on the other hand, the
Baotians retreated with one of their wings, and charged fiercely on
the enemy with the other. When they came to the sword's point,
both fought very desperately, and at first the victory was very doubt-
ful, but at length they with Epaminondas, by their valour and close
order, broke in upon the Peloponnesians, and made a great slaughter
amongst them; for they were not able any longer to bear the weight
of the shock wherewith they were pressed, but some were slain
downright upon the spot, others mortally wounded, bravely receiving
all their wounds upon their breasts. As long as Cleombrotus the
Lacedaemonian king was alive, it was uncertain which side would
carry away the victory, because he had a strong body of targeteers
with him, who fought resolutely in his defence: but, as soon as he
fell down dead, (after many wounds received, and much valour shewn
on his part, though all ineffectual) they thronged together about his
body, where they were hewn down in heaps one upon another. And
now this wing, being without a leader, the Epaminondians charged
the Lacedæmonians with that fierceness, that they forced them by
degrees into disorder. However, the Lacedæmonians fought so
bravely for the body of their king, that at length they possessed them-
selves of it, though they were not able to gain the day: for those
choice bands with Epaminondas standing to it as unconquerable,
(encouraged, likewise, both by the words and example of their leader),
the Lacedæmonians at length (with much ado) began to give ground,
And, indeed, at first they did not (to appearance) break their order
of battle in their retreat; but, when the slaughter increased, and
they had now no commander to give necessary orders, the whole
army
fled outright. The Epaminondians pursued them close, and,
with the slaughter of a multitude of their enemies, gained a glorious
victory: for, by their engaging with the most famous warriors of
Greece, and becoming victorious with an army far short in number
to their enemy's, they highly advanced the reputation of their valour,
But Epaminondas, the general, was judged worthy of the greatest
a
Chap. VI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
45
honour and esteem, because, chiefly by his valour and prudence, he
had routed those commanders of Greece, who were never before con-
quered. The Lacedæmonians lost in this battle no fewer than four
thousanil men: of the Baotians were killed about three hundred.
After wards they made a truce for the burying of the dead, and the re-
turn of the Lacedæmonians into Peloponnesus. And this was the
issue of the battle of Leuctra.
The year following, when Dyscinetus was prætor of Athens, and
four-military tribunes, Quintus Servilius, Lucius Furius, Caius Li-
cindius, and Publius Clelius, executed the consular dignity at Rome,
the Thebaus marched with a great army against Orchomenus, with a
full purpose utterly to ruin that city. But they were advised by
Epaminondas, in regard they sought to gain the principality of
Grecce, that it was their interest to use their victory with moderation.
Whereupon they left off their design, and received the Orchomenians
as their confederatęs: afterwards they made a league with the Pho,
cians and Ætolians, and so returned into Baotia.
At that time Jason, prince of Pheræ*, (whose power grew every
day) invaded Locrist with a great army, and razed Heracleaf in
Trachinia, after it was betrayed into his hands, and bestowed their
territories on the Octеansg and Melicans. Thence marching into Perr-
hæbia, he courted some of the cities into submission, and gained others
by force of arms.
The Thessalians, seeing him mount up so fast, and in so short a
time, began to be jealous of the growth of his power, and the heat of
his ambition.
But in the mean time there arose such a sedition, followed with
such butcheries, in Argos, that the like bad never been before in any
of the cities of Greece; which new and unheard-of cruelty was called
by the Greciaos Scytalism|l, from the manner of the slaughter com-
mitted. And the cause of the tumult was this: Argos was governed
by a democracy; the orators, and those that affected popularity,
stirred up the mob against the great men of the city; which caused
them, for their own preservation, (and to free themselves from the
false accusations that were prosecuted against them), to plot and
contrive how to overturn the democratical government. And when
some who were suspected were called in question, others, fearing
they should be put to the rack, murdered themselves. For one in
the height of his torments confessed, and accused thirty of the great-
est men of the city to be in the conspiracy; upon which the people
(without any further trial) knocked them all on the head, and confis-
* In Thessaly.
+ In Thessaly. $ Near Phocis and Parnassus. Near
Blount Oeta and Thermopylæ, in Phthiotis. Knocking on the head with clubs.
1
46
Book XI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
eated their estates. And whereas there were many others seized, upon
suspicion of the plot, (and the false accusations managed against
them by the orators with all the aggravation imaginable), the people
were so enraged, that whoever were accused (of whom there was a
vast number, and all very rich) were condemned to death; so that
there were executed above sixteen hundred of the greatest and most
powerful men of the city: neither were the orators themselves spared;
for, when they slackened in the prosecution of the calumnies, (be-
cause, they were afraid lest some sudden mischief should overtake
them, by reasou of the extraordinary cruelties that were committed),
the people concluded that they had deserted their cause, which put
them into such a ferment of rage and fury, that they killed all the
orators that were then in the city; which seemed to be executed upon
them by the hand of some revenging deity, as a reward for their vil-
lanies. After the tumult was ceased, the people returned to their
former quiet and peaceable dispositions.
About this time Lycomedes of Tegea persuaded the Arcadians to
join together in one body of a commonwealth, and to constiute a
general council, consisting of ten thousand men, who should have
absolute power to determine all matters relating both to war and
peace. But a tumult happening among the Arcadians, the contro-
versy was decided by the sword, mariy being killed, and above four-
teen hundred banished, some to Sparta, others to Palantium*.
Those that fled to the Palantines were by them delivered up into the
hands of their enemies, who cut all their throats. The others pre-
vailed on the Lacedæmonians to make an inroad into Arcadia: upon
which Agesilaus, king of Sparta, with an army made up of the citi-
zens and exiles, broke into the territories of Tegea, because they
were looked upon to be the fomenters of all the broils and banish-
ments amongst the Arcadians, and wasted and spoiled the country,
which, together with a strict siege laid to the city, greatly terrified
the Arcadians,
While these things were acting, Jason, who ruled at Pheræ, (a
man excellently well versed in military affairs), who had now many
of the neighbouring countries for his confederates, persuaded the
Thessalians to endeavour to gain the sovereignty of Greece to them-
selves. For he alleged, that whoever would fight for it might now
gain it as the reward of their valour: for it was evident that the
Lacedæmonians were miserably ruined at Leuctra, and the Athe-
nians were only masters at sea, and the Thebans far unworthy of such
a dignity; and in conclusion, that the Argives bad weakened them-
selves by their own civil dissentions and bloody broils. Upon this,
• In Arcadia.
Chap. VI.
47
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the Thessalians made Jason general of all their forces, and committed
to him the whole management of the war, whe, having now received
the supreme command, marched into some of the neighbouring
countries, and entered into a league with Amyntas, king of Ma-
cedonia.
This year there happened what was very remarkable: for three
great princes died, near one and the same time; Amyntas, the son
of Tharrhaleus, (after he had reigned in Macedon four-and-twenty
years), died, leaving behind him three sons, Alexander, Perdiocas,
and Philip. Alexander succeeded, but reigned only one year. Then
Agesipolis, king of Lacedæmon, after one year's reign, died like-
wise; his brother Cleomenes succeeded him, and sat at the helm
four-and-thirty years. At last Jason of Pheræ, wbom the Thessa-
lians had lately made their general, (though he governed with great
moderation and kindness towards his subjects), was assassinated by
seven young men, as Ephorus relates, who (in hopes of praise and
commendation) had conspired for that purpose; but others write,
that he was murdered by his brother Pollydorus, who reigned not
above one year after him. Here Durius the Samian begins his
history of the affairs of Greece. And these were the things done
this year.
Afterwards, when Lysistratus governed in chief at Athens, a great
sedition arose in Rome, for some were for making of consuls, others
were for creating of military tribunes in their room; and by reason
of this dissention there was an anarchy for some time. But, at
length, six military tribunes were chosen, which were Lucius Ami-
kius, Caius Verginius*, Serulius Sulpitius, Lucius Quintius, Caius
Cornelius, and Caius Valerius. About the same time, Pollydorus, the
Pheræan, prince of Thessaly, (when he was drunk), was poisoned by
a deadly potion given him by his brother Alexander, who succeeded
him, and reigned eleven years. And as he got into the throne by
wickedness and injustice, so he ruled, (as he ever designed), with
tyranny aud oppression; and whereas all those before him, by their
moderation and kindness to their subjects, gained the love and good-
will of all, he, by his severe and tyrannical government, became
the object of all men's hatred. Therefore, some of Larissa, who
from their high birth were surnamed Aleuadæ, (fearing what might
be the effect of his wickedness), conspired to dethrone him. To
this end they made a journey into Macedonia, and treated with Alex-
ander the king, in order to assist them in deposiаg the tyrant.
While they were negociating this affair, Alexander the Pheræan (hav-
* Vetyrius.
48
Book XI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ing intelligence of the preparations making against him) raised a
considerable army, designing to engage with the enemy in Macedo-
nia; but the king of Macedonia being joined with the deserters,
brought his forces presently to Larissa, and so prevented him: when
he came there, the citizens opened the gates to him, and so he be-
came master of all but the castle, which he afterwards took by force.
The city Cranon likewise surrendered to him, and he promised to
restore all the cities to the Thessalians. But afterwards, (not valu-
ing his word or honour), he garrisoned them, and detained them all
in his own hands. But Alexander, the Pheræan, in a great fright,
fled to the city Pheræa. And this was then the condision of Thes-
saly.
CHAP. VII.
The Lacedæmonians send Polytropus into Arcadia; who is slain,
and his party routed by Lycomedes. An invasion by Epami-
nondas and Pelopidas into Peloponnesus. Sparta besieged.
The antiquity and history of Messenia, in Greece. Pellene
taken by the Arcadians. A wall drawn between Cenchrece and
the Lechæum, to hinder the inroad of the Thebans into Pelo-
ponnesus. Epaminondas breaks through into Peloponnesus :
assaults Corinth.
IN Peloponnesus, in the mean time, the Lacedæmonians sent a
thousand heavy-armed men of their own citizens, and five hundred
deserters from Argos and Bæotia, into Arcadia, under the command
of Polytropus, who, when he came to Orchomenus, in Arcadia, put a
garrison into it, being a city that favoured the Spartans. But Lyco-
medes of Mantinea, (then commander-in-chief of the Arcadians),
with a body of men to the number of five thousand, marched against
Orchomenus, and, upon their arrival, the Lacedæmonians drew out
their forces, where happened a sharp engagement, in which the La-
cedaemonian general was slain, and two hundred more with him;
the rest, by the hot pursuit of the enemy, were forced back into the
city. However, though the Arcadians then got the victory, yet they
so far feared the power of Sparta, that they durst not depend upon
Chap. VII.
49
DIODORUS SICULUS.
their own strength in contending with the Lacedæmonians, and
therefore, taking into their confederacy the Argives and the Elians,
they first sent ambassadors to Athens, to desire them to be their con-
federates, which being denied, they then addressed themselves to the
Thebans for the same purpose. Upon which the Bæotians (together
with the Phocians and Locrians, their confederates) drew out their
forces, and marched directly into Peloponnesus, under the command
of Epaminondas and Pelopidas : for all the other Bæotarchs had wil-
lingly given up the sole and absolute command of the army to those
two, being men eminent for prudence and valour.
When they entered into the confines of Arcadia, they were met
by all the Arcadians, Elians, Argives, and the rest of their confede-
rates. And now they had an army of above fifty thousand men, and,
after a council of war held, the generals resolved to march forth with
to Sparta, and to waste and spoil all the country of Laconia. But
the Lacedæmonians, having lost the flower and strength of their
young men in the battle at Leuctra, and many in several other fights
here and there, were thereby reduced to a very small number of
fighting men of their own citizens: and whereas some of their con-
federates deserted, and others were brought low by the same means
as those before, they knew not which way to turn themselves.
that they were forced to seek for aid and assistance from them (I
mean the Athenians) upon whom they had soine time before imposed
thirty tyrants, and whose walls they had demolished, and whose city
they had decreed to raze even to the ground, and lay it open and
common with the rest of the country for the grazing of flocks and
herds. But necessity has no law, and the turns of fortune are in-
vincible, through which the Lacedæmonians were brought into that
strait, as to become suppliants to their most implacable enenies for
relief. However, they were not deceived in their hopes; for such
was the brave and generous spirit of the Athenians, that they feared
not the power of the Thebans, but decreed to assist the Laccdamo-
nians to the utmost they were able, though they were now ready
even to be swallowed up, and made perfect slaves. To this end they
listed in one day twelve thousand lusty young men, and forthwith
ordered Iphicrates the general to march away to the assistance of the
Spartans. Accordingly, having men that were very forward, he
hastes away with a swift march. Neither were the Lacedæmonians
less active or forward; but now, even when the enemy were en-
camped in the borders of Laconia, they marched out of Sparta with
all the strength they could make, which was but small, yet with the
same courage and valour as they had formerly done.
In the mean time, Epaminondas's army conceiving it very diffic
Vol. 2, No. 41.
H
50
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
+
cult to enter into the enemy's country, and therefore judging it was
not convenient to attempt it with the whole army together, they
resolved to divide their forces into four bodies, and so to make
the attack in several places at once. The first marched to the city of
Sellasia, and drew off the inhabitants of that territory from the La-
cedæmonians. The Argives, who were in another body, upon theis
entrance into the borders of Tagea, engaged with the guard that
kept that pass, and killed the chief officer, Alexander, a Spartan, and
two bundred more of his men: amongst whom there were some Bæo-
tian exiles. The third body, in which were the Arcadians, and most
in number, broke into the country called Scirus, where Ischolaus a
man of great valour and prudence, kept guard with a considerable
body of men. This brave and gallant commander performed an he-
roic action, worthy to be recorded to all posterity. When he fore-
saw that both be, and all those with him, were sure every man to be
cut off by their engaging with so great and unequal a number; in
the first place he looked upon it as a dishonour to the Spartan name
to desert the post assigned him, and yet judged it to be much for the
service and advantage of his country if he could preserve the sol-
diers. To the admiration therefore of his valour, he contrived a
way how to answer the ends of both; wherein he bravely imitated
the gallant spirit of king Leonidas in former times at Thermopylæ.
For he sent away to Sparta the choicest of his soldiers that were
young and lusty, to the end they might be helpful to their country in
fighting, now that all lay at stake: and he himself, with those that were
old, kept close together, and in a brave defence, slaughtered multi-
tudes of their enemies; but at length, being surrounded and hem-
med in by the Arcadians, they were every man of them cut off.
The fourth body of the Elians having all places more clear and
open before them, arrived at length at Sellasia: for it was ordered
that all the forces should meet together at that place, where, being all
now joined, they marched towards Sparta, and wasted the country
all before them with fire and sword. And now the Lacedæmonians.
seeing their autient country Laconia (which had never known what
waste and spoil meant for the space of five hundred years before) to
be thus cruelly harassed and destroyed, could no longer forbear,
but were ready to run upon their enemies as it were with open mouth.
But being by some magistrates that came from the city commanded
not to basten away too far out of the bounds of their country, (lest
some other should make an inroad into it in the mean time), and
being likewise advised to recollect themselves, and think seriously of
defending the city, with much ado they submitted to the advice.
In the mean time, Epaminondas having passed his army over the
Chap. VII.
51
DIODORUS SICULUS.
mountain Taygetus, and arrived at the river Eurotas, (which was then
very high, being winter time), he endeavoured all he could to get
over. The Lacedæmonians perceiving how his troops were disor-
dered and dispersed through the difficulty of the passage, laid bold
upon this fit oecasion to fall upon them. Leaving therefore their
wives, children, and old men, as a guard for the city, they made out
against the enemy in good order, with all the young and strong men
of the town, and by a sudden and hot charge, cut off a great number
in their passing the river: but the Baotians and Arcadians valiantly
standing their ground, surrounded their enemies. However, the
Spartans, after they had killed a great number of the Baotians, at
length broke through, and returned to the city, leaving behind them
remarkable instances of their valour.
Presently after, when Epaminondas came up with his whole army
(to the terror of the inhabitants) to the city, the Spartans, by the
advantage of the strength of the places, killed great numbers of them.
And now all hands were at work, and very earnest to gain the city,
insomuch, that they seemed in a fair way to take Sparta by storm.
But the assailants, (through their over heat and violence), being many
of them killed, and others wounded, Epaminondas caused a trumpet
to sound a retreat, and so called them off. Presently after, the The-
bans made their approach to the city, and challenged the Spartans to
come forth and fight with them, or else to acknowledge themselves
inferior, and not able to contend with them. To whom they an-
swered _That when they saw their opportunity, they would be sure
not to decline fighting, though they laid all at stake. The army,
therefore, now drew off from the siege, and having wasted and
spoiled all Laconia, and loaded themselves with rich prey and plun-
der, returned into Arcadia. Afterwards the Athenians (who came
too late and did nothing worth taking notice of) marched back into
Attica.
In the mean while, four thousand men came to the assistance of
the Lacedæmonians from their confederates. To these they added a
thousand helots newly manumitted and set free, and two hundred
Baotian fugitives, and many more from the neighbouring towns and
villages; so that they were now strong enough to cope with the enemy.
And these forces being kept together, and daily exercised, grew more
and more daring, and fit for public service in the field.
But Epaminondas being naturally inclined to things that were great,
and ambitious to eternize his own praise and honour, persuaded the
Arcadians and the other allies to rebuild and replenish Messene
with new inhabitants, (which had been destroyed by the Lacedæmo-
nians, and lay waste and desolate many years), it being most com
52
Book XT.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
modiously situated for invading of Sparta at any time; having pro-
cured their consent, he inquired after all the antient inhabitants that
were living in any place: and enfranchising many others that were
willing to settle themselves there, he repaired Messene, and made
it very populous, and divided the land belonging to the city by lot
amongst the new inhabitants, and filled the country about with stately
seats and beautiful buildings, and so raised up a noble Grecian city
out of its ruins, to its former state and grandeur, for which he was
highly honoured.
I conceive it will not be amiss in this place, in regard that Messeno
has been so often taken and ruined, if I say something in short of
this city from its beginning. Antiently the family of Neleus and
Nestor, to the time of the Trojan war, possessed it: afterwards Orestes,
the son of Agamemnon, and bis posterity, enjoyed it, till the return
of the Heraclidæ. Then Cresphontes chose Messene for his share,
and his posterity reigned there for some time; but they being eject-
ed, it came into the power of the Lacedæmonians, who became lords
thereof. For after that Telecles king of the Lacedæmonians was
slain in a battle, the Messenians at length were subdued by the
Spartaus. This war is said to have continued twenty years; and
that the Lacedæmonians had taken a solemn oath-That they would
never returu to Sparta till they had taken Messene. At that time
were born those called the Partheniæ, who afterwards enjoyed the
city of Tarentum. The Messenians in after times being oppressed
by the Lacedemonians, Aristomenes stirred them up to revolt, and
destroyed many of the Spartans. At which time Tyrreus the poet
was sent by the Athenians to the Spartans to be their general. But
there are others who say, that Aristomenes flourished in the time of
the twenty-years war. The last war made upon them was after that
terrible earthquake which almost ruined Sparta and destroyed all
its inhabitants. At that time, those that remained of the Messenians,
(together with the helots who revolted with them), inhabited Ithome,
because Messene had lain waste many years together before that
time.
But, being unfortunate in every encounter, they were at
length utterly ruined, and driven out of their country; and scutled
themselves in Naupactus, which was given them to inhabit by the
Athenians: and from thence some removed to Cephalenia, and others
into Sicily, where they built the city of Messana, so called from them,
And now the Thebans, in the last place, by the advice of Epaminon-
das, (who invited the Messenians from all places where they were),
rebuilt Messene, and restored to the new inhabitants all the antient
territories formerly belonging to that city. And thus great and va-
rious were the changes and turns of Messene.
Chap. VII.
53
DIODORUS SICULUS.
The Thebans having dispatched all these things in the space of
eighty-five days, leaving a strong garrison for the defence of Mes-
sene, returned to their own country. And the Lacedæmonians
having now unexpectedly rid themselves of the enemy, sent some of
the greatest men of their city to Athens; and upon a treaty concern-
ing the principality, it was agreed that the Athenians should be mas-
ters at sea, and the Lacedæmonians have the chief command at land;
but afterwards both cities executed the sovereignty in common.
About the same time, the Arcadians created Lycomedes general,
and sent him away with five thousand strong and lusty young men
to besiege Pellene in Laconia: who took it by storm, and put above
three hundred Lacedæmonians there in garrison to the sword: and,
having plundered the city, and wasted and spoiled the country,
returned home before the Lacedæmonians could send them any
relief.
The Baotians (likewise being desired by the Thessalians to free
them from the tyranny of Alexander the Pherean, then but feeble
and almost broken) sent Pelopidas with a strong army into Thessaly,
with orders to manage affairs there to the advantage of the Bæo-
tians. When he came to Larissa, he possesed himself of the castle
then garrisoned by Alexander; thence he marched into Macedonia,
and made a league with king Alexander, and received Philip his
brother as an hostage, and sent him to Thebes. And having per-
fected whatever he thought might be for the service of the Baotians,
he returned into his own country.
Things standing thus, the Arcadians, Argives, and Elians, unani-
mously agreed to make war upon the Lacedæmonians, and to that
end, to send ambassadors to the Baotians, to persuade them to join
with them in the war. They accordingly consented, and sent fortla
an army of seven thousand foot, and five hundred horse, under the
command of Epaminondas and the other Bæotarchs. The Athe.
nians hearing of the preparations of the Baotians against Pelopon-
nesus, sent an army against them, under the command of Chabrias
their general, who, when he arrived at Corinth, raised men out of Me-
gara, Pellene, and Corinth, and made up an army of ten thousand
men; who being joined with the Lacedæmonians and other confe-
derates at Corinth, their whole forces were no less than twenty
thousand. They made it first their business to guard all the pas-
sages, and to do all they could to prevent the Bæotians from break.
ing into Peloponnesus: to this end they drew a wall with a deep
trench from the Cenchreæ to the Lechæum*, to block up the entrance
* The narrow pass of Peloponnesus, between two seas, viz, Lechæum, lying on the
west, and Cencbreæ in the east, forining the harbour of Corinth.
54
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that way. The thing was done with that quickness and expedition,
(through the multitude of hands and diligence of those employed),
that the place was fortified before the Bæotians could reach it.
As soon as Epaminondas came up to the place, upon diligent view
of the fortification, he discerned that that part kept by the Lace-
dæmonians was the weakest, and therefore did all he could to draw
them out to a fair field-battle, though they were almost three times
his number. But when he saw they would not stir, but kept them-
selves within their fortifications and trenches, he made a fierce as-
sault upon them, storming them in every part: but the action was
hottest and sharpest on both sides, where the Lacedæmonians were
posted, for there the place was of easiest entrance, and most difficult
to be kept. But Epaminondas having with him the flower of Thebes,
with much ado beat off the Lacedæmonians, and so clearing the way,
broke in with his forces, and laid the passage open into Peloponnesus,
which was an action nothing inferier to any he had done before.
Hereupon, he forth with marched to Træezene and Epidaurus, and
wasted and harassed the country round about, but could not take
the cities, being very strongly garrisoned; but Sicyon, Pheunte*,
and some others submitted to him. Then he marched with his
army against Corinth: and, having routed the townsmen in an en-
counter, he pursued them to the very walls: where some of the
Boeotians, puffed up with their good success, rashly broke through
the gates into the city; upon which the Corinthians, in a great fright,
shut themselves up in their houses. But Chabrias, the Athenian ge-
neral, both cordially and faithfully made head against the Baotians,
and drove some of them out of the city, making a great slaughter
of the rest, In the heat of this action, the Bæotians approached to
Corinth with their whole army in battalia, to the great terror of the
inhabitants: upon which, Chabrias, with his Athenians, forth with
made a sally out of the city, and having possessed himself of the
hills adjoining, there bore the brunt of the enemy's charge. On the
other side the Bæotians encouraged, being strong of body, and of
long experience in feats of arms, doubted not but to rout the Athe-
nians. But the Chabrians (by the advantage of the higher ground,
and continual succours coming to them out of the city) so defended
themselves, that they killed and grievously galled their assailants, and
beat them off: so that the Boeotians, after the loss of a great num-
ber of their men, not being able to do any thing, drew off their forces.
But Chabrias having thus baffled the enemy, his valour, faithfulness,
and military conduct, was cried up, and greatly admired.
* Phen in Elis,
Chap. VIII.
55
DIODORUS SICULUS,
CHAP. VIII.
Dionysius sends Gauls and Spaniards to the assistance of the La-
cedæmonians. Pelopidas and Ismenias imprisoned by Ales-
ander, tyrant of Phere. The Baotians pursued by the Phe-
reans: brought off by Epaminondas, then a private soldier.
The fight between the Arcadians and Lacedæmonians. Dio-
nysius falls upon the Carthaginian territories in Sicily. Diony-
sius dies. The cause of his death. The cruelty of Alexander
the Pherean at Scotussa. Epaminondas breaks again into Pe-
loponnesus. Coos peopled and walled. The end of the Laconic
and Baotian war by the mediation of the Persian king.
ABOUT this time arrived at Corinth two thousand Gauls and Spa-
niards, sent by Dionysius the tyrant to the Lacedæmonians from Si-
cily, who had five months pay in advauce. The Grecians, to try their
valour, drew them out against the enemy; who so far approved them-
selves stout and valiant men, that they routed and killed many of
the Boeotians and their confederates. And after they had been very
useful in the war, and procured to themselves praise and estcem
both for their courage and service, and had been rewarded according
to their merits by the Lacedæmonians, they were sent back into Si-
cily at the end of the summer.
After these things, Philiscus, ambassador from Artaxerxes king of
Persia, came into Greece to persuade the Grecians to be at peace
among themselves; to which all willingly complied except the The-
bans, who were so obstinate that they refused the conditions, hav-
ing before brought all Bæotia into subjection to their own govern-
ment. There being therefore no hopes of peace, Philiscus returned
,
into Asia, leaving behind him two thousand mercenaries, who re-
ceived their pay for the service of the Lacedæmonians,
Whilst these things were doing, Euphron of Sicyon, a bold and
rash fellow, not inferior to any of that kind, with the assistance of the
Argives, plotted to gain the sovereignty; and to that end, fortune favour-
ed him so far, that fothwith he banished forty of the citizens, and con-
fiscated their goods and estates, by which he raised a vast sum of
money, wherewith he hired a guard of foreigners, and so possessed
himself of the command of the city.
Nausigenes being lord chancellor of Athens, and four military
tribunes, viz. Lucius Papirius, Lucius Menenius, Servius Cornelius,
and Servius Sulpitius, executing the consular authority at Rome,
56
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the hundred and third olympiad was celebrated at Elis, in which Py-
thostratus the Athenian carried away the prize. This year Ptolemy
:
Alorites, the son of Amyntas, treacherously murdered his brother
Alexander, and governed the kingdom of Macedonia for the space
of three years. At the same time Pelopidas in Boutia, emulating
the glory of Epaminondas, and perceiving what great service he had
done in Peloponnesus for the commonwealth of Bæotia, made it his
business to advance his own reputation, by enlarging the power and
sovereignty of the Thebans in other parts out of Peloponnesus.
To that end, and joining with Ismenias, (his special friend, and a
man of great esteem for his valour), he took a journey into Thes-
saly, where, upon discourse with Alexander, tyrant of Pheræ, (when
he never expected any such thing), he and Ismenias were both seized,
and clapped up in prison. This fact highly incensed the Thebans,
upon which they sent eight thousand heavy-armed men, and six
hundred horse into Thessaly. At whose coming Alexander was in a
great fright, and sent ambassadors to Athens to treat with them for
their assistance. Upon this, the people of Athens forthwith des-
patched thirty sail, and a thousand men, under the command of
Autocles; but while he sailed round Eubæa, the Thebans en-
tered Thessaly. And though Alexander was well furnished with
foot, and exceeded the Baotians in horse, yet the Baotians at the
first concluded they should put an end to the war by one fight, es-
pecially being enforced by the Thessalians: but being deserted by
them, and Alexander assisted by the Athenians and other confede-
rates, and meat and drink and all other provisions being scarce, the
Bæotarchs were resolved to return home, and accordingly drew off;
and in their march through the plain, they were fallen upon in the
rear by Alexander's horse, who killed and wounded many of the Bæo-
tians. At length, not being able either to keep their ground or go
forward, they knew not which way to turn themselves, or what to
do; and to aggravate the perplexity they were in, they were in want
of food. In this desperate condition Epaminondas (who was then
but a private soldier) was chosen general by the army, who presently
placed the best and choicest of the light-armed men, and the horse
in the rear. With these he repulsed the enemy that pressed upon the
backs of the Baotians, and by frequent skirmishes, (making head
as occasion served), and keeping his troops in good order, he brought
off the army safe. Thenceforth more and more advancing his own
reputation by his noble actions, he gained praise and renown both
åmongst his citizens, and all their confederates.
But the magistrates of Boeotia set great fines upon the officers
and leaders in this late expedition, and so raised a great deal of
Chap. VII.
57
DIODORUS SICULUS.
money; but, in regard the question may be very well asked_How
it came to pass that so great a man was placed in so low a place as
a common soldier in that expedition into Thessaly? it is fit a reason
should be given in justification of Epaminondas. When he had in
the fight at Corinth beaten off the Lacedæmonians who guarded the
fortification, he might have killed a great number of them; but rest-
ing satisfied that he had gained the pass, he forbore all further pur-
suit. Being therefore suspected that he spared the Lacedæmonians
out of a design to ingratiate himself iuto their favour, those that en-
vied his glory, watched an opportunity to accuse him of treason.
Upon which the people were so exasperated, that they deprived him
of his command, and ordered him to serve as a common soldier. But
having by his noble actions wiped off those stains of dishonour cast
upon him, be was restored by the people to his former dignity.
Not long after, a sharp battle was fought between the Lacedæ-
monians and the Arcadians, in which the former obtained a famous
victory; and was the first fight since that at Leuctra, wherein they
had any considerable success. There were above ten thousand of the
Arcadians slain, and not one man lost of the Lacedæmonians. The
priests at Dodona had before foretold_That this war should end with-
out any mourning on the part of the Lacedæmonians. After this bat-
tle, the Arcadians were in that fear of the Lacedæmonians, that they
built the city called Megalopolis, in a place commodiously situated
for their security, and brought into it the Menalians, and Parrha-
sians, out of twenty villages in Arcadia. And this was the state of
Greece at that time.
In Sicily, Dionysius the tyrant having raised a great army, resolved
to take advantage of the present opportunity, and to fall upon the
Carthaginians, who were then but in a very weak condition, by rea-
son of the plague that raged amongst them, and their being deserted
by many of the Africans. And because he had not the least colour
or ground for the war, he pretended that the Carthaginians encroach-
ed and made incursions into his country. Having therefore an army
of thirty thousand foot, and three thousand horse, besides a navy of
three hundred sail, with these he invades the Carthaginian territory,
and presently won Selinus and Entella, and wastes and harasses
all the country round about: then taking Eryx, be at length besieg-
ed Lilybæum: but the strength of the garrison presently forced him
to raise the siege. Afterwards, being informed that the arsenals be-
longing to the Carthaginians were burnt down, and therefore con-
ceiving their whole fleet was destroyed, he grew secure and despised
the enemy; so that he laid up thirty of his best gallies in the bavi
at Eryx, and sent all the rest back to Syracuse. But the Carth..
Vol. 2. No. 41.
I
58
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ginians having forthwith manned two hundred sail, and entering the
port at Eryx unespectedly, on a sudden came up to the ships there,
and carried away most of them out of the harbour: but winter drawing
on, both sides made a truce, and returned with their armies to winter-
quarters. And not long after, Dionysius fell sick and died, having
reigned thirty-eight years; his son Dionysius succeeded him, and go-
verned twelve years.
Here it will not be a matter foreign to the design of our history,
if we relate the cause of his death, and what happened to this prince
a little before that time.
When he had caused a tragedy of his, called the Leneians, to be
acted at Athens, and was proclaimed victor, one of the singers or
musicians in the chorus, hoped to gain an honourable reward by bring-
ing him the first news of his victory: to that end he sailed to Co-
rinth, and thence took shipping for Sicily, and, with a fair wind, ar-
sived at Syracuse, and presently gives the tyrant an account of his
victory: upon which, he was so transported with joy, that he bounti-
fully rewarded the man; and that he might give thanks to the gods
by costly sacrifices, for such a happy piece of news, he made splen-
did entertainments, in feasting and drinking. But in this sumptu-
ous reception of his friends, drinking to excess, and overcharging
nature, he fell into a most violent distemper, which killed him. He
bad been formerly forewarned by an oracle_That he should then
die, when he should overcome those who were better than himself.
This doubtful prophecy, he applied to the Carthaginians, looking upon
them to be more powerful than he himself. And upon that account,
(though he was often fighting with them), it was his custom to wave
the victory, and own himself to be overcome. However, he was
not able to avoid his destiny. For, though he was but a bad poet,
yet by the judgment of the Athenians, he carried away the victory
against those that far excelled him in that art: so that his victory
over them, and the time of his death, very well agreed to the sense
of the oracle. Dionysius the younger, as soon as he came to the
crown, called a senate, and there courted the people, and desired
them to continue the same good will and respect to him, that they
had born to his father. Afterwards, having first solemnized his fa-
ther's funeral with great pomp and state at the king's gates in the
castle, he ordered the affairs of his kingdom so as to set himself fast
on the throne.
At this time Polyzelus was archon at Athens; and at Rome,
(through intestine broils and seditions), was nothing but an anarchy.
In Greece, Alexander, tyrant of Phere, bearing a grudge to thein
of Scotussa in Thessaly, called them to a common assembly; and when
Chap. VIII.
59
DIODORUS SICULUS.
they appeared, he encompassed them with his guard, and put them
every one to the sword, and threw their carcasses into the ditches over
the walls, and plundered the city.
At the same time, Epaminondas the Theban, with all his forces,
broke into Peloponnesus, with whom joined the Achaians, and several
other confederates, and restored Dymon*, Naupactust, and Caly-
donſ, to their antient liberties, and then made another expedition
into Thessaly; in which they freed Pelopidas out of the hands of
Alexander the tyrant of Pheræ. The Phliasians were about the
same time besieged by the Argives: but Chares, sent from Athens in
aid of the Phliasians, raised the siege, having routed the Argives in two
battles, and so returned to Athens.
At the end of this year Cephisidorys was chief governor of Athens;
and four military tribunes, clothed with consular dignity, governed at
Rome, viz. Lucius Furius, Paulus Manlius, Servitius Sulpitius, and
Servius Cornelius. At that time Themesion the prince of Eretria
took Oropus, belonging to the Athenians, but lost it again on a sud-
den. For, the Athenians coming upon him with far greater forces
tban he was able to cope with, he applied himself to the Thebans for
assistance, and delivered the city into their hands, (as a pledge),which
they never after would restore.
While those things were acting, they of Coos seated themselves
in the city they now enjoyſ, and put it into that state and grandeur
it now has. For it was made very populous, and a large wall drawn
round about it, with great cost and expense, and furnished with an
excellent harbour. From this time forward, it grew more and more,
both in its public revenues, and in the private wealth and riches of
its inhabitants, in so much, that it vied with the chiefest and most
famous cities.
During these transactions, the king of Persia sent ambassadors to
persuade the Grecians to agree and lay aside their animosities one
against another. Upon which, the Laconic and Baotian war, (as
they called it), which, from the time of the battle of Leuctra had
continued above five years, was now at length ended. About these
times flourished seveļal famous men, worthy, for their learning,
to be ever remembered. As Isocrates the orator, and his scholars;
Aristotie the philosopher, and Anaximenes of Lampsacus; and espe-
cially Plato the Athenian, and the last of the Pythagorean philoso-
phers. Besides these, Xenophon the historian, (now very old), for
* Dymon, or Dymæ, a city of Achaia. + A city of Achaia in Locris, nox
called Lepanto. $ Calydon in Ætolia, about seven miles from the sea,
Ś Coos, a city
so called in the island of cour, in the Agean sça.
60
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
he makes mention of the death of Epaminondas, which happened
shortly after this time. Aristippus and Antisthenes, and Echines of
Sphetus, (one of the scholars of Socrates), were living at this time,
CHAP. IX.
New quarrels in Greece. The battle between the Elians and Ar-
cadians near Lassia. The quarrel between the Pisates and them
of Elis about the Olympic games. A fight at the time and place
of the games. The Thebans prepare a fleet in order to gain the
dominion at sea. Rhodes, Chios, and Byzantium, brought into
the Thebans by Epaminondas. The Thebans make war upon
Orchomenus : the reason. Orchomenus razed. The Thessa-
lians war with Alexander the Pherean. Pelopidas killed; his
praises.
THIS year Chion was chief governor at Athens; and these military tri-
bunes executed the consular authority at Rome,viz. Quintus Servius*,
Caias Veturius, Aulus Cornelius, Marcus Cornelius, and Marcus Fa-
bius. In their time, while all Greece was at peace, on a sudden new
quarrels and preparations for war began to break out between some of
the cities. For the exiles of Arcadia made an excursion out of Elis, and
seized upon the strong castle of Triphyliat, called Lassia. The Ar-
cadians and Elians had been quarrelling a long time about Triphylia:
and, upon several turns of fortune, first one and then the other got
the possession; which being at that time in the hands of the Arca-
dians, the Elians, under the shelter and colour of the Arcadian fugi-
tives, dispossessed the Arcadians. They, (enraged at this affront and
injury), by their ambassadors, first demanded the re-delivery of the
place, but their demand was slighted; thereupon they procured the
Athenians to join with them in the war, and besieged Lassia. But
the Elians came presently into the assistance of the exiles: upon
which a battle was fought near Lassia, in which the Elians were
routed, being overpowered by numbers, and lost above two hundred
men. The seeds of war being now sown, the controversy be-
tween the Elians and the Arcadians grew hotter every day: for the
Arcadians, puffed up with the late victory, presently marched their
army into the country of Elis, and took the cities Marganus, Cro-
nium, Cyparissia, and Coryphasium.
• Servilius.
† A part of the country of Elis.
1
1
Chap. IX.
: 61
DIODORUS SICULUS.
In the interim Ptolomæus A lorites, in Macedonia, was treacherously
murdered by his brother Perdiccas after he had reigued three years; Per-
diccas succeeded him, and enjoyed the kingdom five years.
At this time Timocrates was archon of Athens; and three military
tribunes invested with consular authority ruled at Rome, viz. Titus
Quintius, Servilius Cornelius, and Servius Sulpitius. The hundred
and fourth olympiad was now celebrated by the Pisates and the Arca-
dians, where Phocides, the Athenian, was victor.
Abrut this time it happened, that the Pisates, (upon the account
of some old fables and stories they had amongst them), to regain the
antient honour and dignity of their country, challenged it as their
right to convene and manage the olympic games. Judging it there-
fore now a fit time to dispute this matter, they took in the Arcadians,
the enemies of the Elians, as their confederates in the war: with
whose aid and assistance they marched against the Elians, who had
then appointed the games. Whereupon the Elians, with all their
forces, made out against them; upon which there was a very sharp en-
counter. The Grecians who were then come together to this solem-
nity, stood as spectators with crowns upon their heads, (out of reach
of all danger), and at every brave action of either party gave great
shouts. The Pisates at length being conquerors, managed the sports;
but the Elians never accounted this olympiad in their annals, because
they looked upon it to be acted by force, and against law.
During these transactions of affairs, Epaminondas the Theban,
(who was in great esteem among the people), made a speech to the
citizens, in which he stirred them up to gain the dominion of the
sea. In this oration (which he had premeditated long before) he
shewed them that the thing was easily done, as it was advantageous
and profitable to the commonwealth; and amongst other things he
likewise told them_That being sovereigns at land, they might be
easily masters at sea. For although the Athenians in the war against
Xerxes, had a navy of two hundred sail well equipped and furnished,
yet they were under the command of the Lacedæmonians, who had
but ten. When he had spoken what he had to say suitable to the
occasion, he brought the Thebans to a compliance.
It was therefore forthwith decreed by the people, that a hundred
gallies, and as many docks should be built, and that application should
be made to the Rhodians, Chians, and Bizantines, for their assist-
ance to forward the work. Epaminondas himself being sent away
with some forces to the beforementioned cities, so terrified Iaches the
Athenian general, (who was sent with a strong and well furnished licet
to obstruct the designs of the Thebans), that he forced him to sail,
and reduced those eities to the obedience of Thebes: and
62
Book X.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
but if this man had lived some time longer, he had gained for the
Thebans the sovereign command both at sea and land. But not long
after, being killed at the battle at Mantenea, (where he obtained a
famous victory for his country by his own fall), all the prosperity of
the Thebans presently died (as it were) with him. But we shall treat
of these things more particularly and distinctly shortly hereafter.
About the same time likewise, the Thebars resolved to invade
Orchomenus, for the reasons following:-_Some of the Theban fun
gitives had a purpose to change the government of Thebes into
an aristocracy, and to that end, joined in confederacy with three
hundred horsemen of Orchomenus. These horses were used to ren-
dezvous at a certain day appointed and ordered by the Thebans, and
therefore they contrived that at that very day, (whenever it should be),
they would fall upon the city. And seeing there were many others
that were engaged to be assisting in effecting this design, they took
a fit opportunity at length to meet together. Then some of the
chief conspirators, who began to repent of the treason, discovered all
to the Baotians, and by betraying their fellows, saved their own lives.
Upon this all the horsemen, by command of the magistrates, were
seized, and being afterwards brought before the senate, they were all
judged to be put to death, and that the inhabitants of Orchomenus
should be sold for slaves, and their city razed to the ground. The
Thebans had born an old grudge towards them of Orchomenus for
many generations, because in the times of the heroes*, they forced
them to pay tribute, till Hercules set them free. Having therefore
now got an opportunity, and a good colour (as they conceived) to re-
venge themselves, they marched with their forces against Orchomenus.
And presently making themselves masters of the city, they put all the
men to the sword, and sold the women and children forslaves.
At this same time, the Thessalians made war upon Alexander, the
prince of Pheræ; but, being often beaten, and having lost many
men, they solicited the Thebans to send aid to them, under the com-
mand of Pelopidas: for they knew he was a brave-spirited man and
an excellent commander, and an inveterate enemy of Alexander,
upon account of his late imprisonment. The Bæotians hereupon
called a general council, and gave audience to the ambassadors; and,
having heard their message, they readily complied in all things to
their request, and forthwith ordered Pelopidas to their assistance,
with seven thousand men, who presently obeyed; and, just as he was
marching out with the army, the son was eclipsed, which prodigy
perplexed many: for there were some of the soothsayers who de,
clared, that by this marching out of the army, the sun of the city
Or demigods.
Chap. IX.
63
DIODORUS SICULUS.
should be eclipsed, meaning nothing else but the death of Pelopidas.
However, Pelopidas (nothing moved with what was said, but led on
by his inevitable destiny) marched forward. When he came into
Thessaly, he found that Alexander, with above twenty thousand
men, had possessed himself of the higher grounds: upon this he en-
camped in the face of the enemy, and, being afterwards joined with
the Thessalians, he fought the Pheræans. But Alexander prevailing,
by the advantage of the ground, Pelopidas (desiring to put an end to
the dispute by his own personal valour) charges up to Alexander
kimself, who, with those select bands that were about him, valiantly
stood his ground; upon this the battle grew very hot, in which Pelo-
pidas, acting the part both of a good soldier and skilful commander,
covered the place with the bodies of his enemies. At length he put
the enemy to flight, and gained the victory, but he himself (througla
many wounds he had received) fell down dead, and so heroically
euded his days. And now Alexander, being conquered in another
battle, and thereby having all his forces broken in pieces, he was
forced, upon terms of peace, to restore to the Thessalians all the
towns he had before taken, and to deliver Magnesia and Phthiotis,
çities of Achaia, to the Baotians, and be their confederates, and, for
the future, to be content with Pheræ only. However, though the
Thebans gained a glorious victory, yet they declared every where that
they were conquered, because of the death of Pelopidas: for they
looked upon the victory not to compensate the loss of so brave a man.
For he had often done many great and worthy services for the ad-
yantage of his country, and much enlarged the bounds and territories
of the Theban commonwealth: as, in freeing the city by the exiles,
when they recovered the citadel of Cadmea, all generally ascribed
that poble action to Pelopidas; which was the chief cause of all the
advantages, and happy success that happened to the Thebans after-
wards. Then, at the fight of Tegea, Pelopidas was the only man of
the Boeotarchs that overcame the Lacedæmonians, the most potent
people of all the Grecians; which was the first time the Thebans
crected a trophy (for the greatness of the victory) over the Lacedæ-
monians. Afterwards, at the battle of Leuctra, he was colonel of
the sacred band, and was the first that broke in upon the Lacedæ-
monians, and so became the immediate author and instrument of the
victory. Besides, in the expeditions against the Lacedæmonians,
(being general of seventy thousand men), he erected a trophy for
his victory over them in the very face of Sparta, who never knew
before what it was to be besieged. Being sent ambassador to the
king of Persia, to negotiate the affair of the common pacification,
he gained in that treaty Messene for his own country, which the
64
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Thebans rebuilt, after it had lain desolate three hundred years. And
now at last, in the battle against Alexander, (wotwithsanding he far
exceeded him in the number of his forces), he not only obtained a
glorious victory, but became famous for his extraordinary valour,
though with the loss of his life. And, during these wars, he was
in that reputation among the people, that, from the return of the
exiles, to the time of his death, he was always one of the Boeotarchs;
no one ever before being thought worthy of so great an honour. In-
asmuch, therefore, as Pelopidas was thus highly esteemed, and gained
the reputation of all for his courage and conduct, it is fit he should have
bis due commendation from us, likewise, in this our history.
About the same time Clearchus, of the city of Heraclea, aspired to
the sovereignty of Pontus; and prevailing in his enterprise, made it
his whole business to imitate Dionysius the tyrant, and governed the
Heracleans in great splendour for the space of twelve years.
During these affairs, Timotheus the Athenian general, having with
him both sea and land-forces, besieged Toryne and Potidæa, and took
them by storm, and razed the siege of Cyzicum.
CHAP. X.
The war between the Tegeans and Mantineans. The Baotians
side with the Tegeans. Epaminondas made general. The battle
of Mantinea, where Epaminondas was killed; but the Lacedæ.
monians routed. The commendation of Epaminondas.
AT the end of the year, Chariclides was created lord-chancellor of
Athens; and Lucius Æmilius Mamercus, and Lucius Sextius Late-
ranus, Roman consuls. At which time the Arcadians and the Pisates
(by compact joining together) celebrated the Olympic games at
Olympus, and possessed themselves both of the temple, and all the
riches that were there. And, because the Mantineans carried away
and converted to prophane uses many of the dedicated things, these
sacrilegious persons made it their business to promote and carry on
the war against the Elians, lest, if peace were made, they should be
called to account for their ill-gotten goods. And therefore, when
the rest of the Arcadians would have compromised matters, they
stirred up sedition against their own countrymen. Being, therefore,
Chap. X.
65
DIODORUS SICULUS.
divided into two factions, one headed by the Tegeans, the other by
the Mantineans, the feud grew to that height, that at last they deter-
mined to decide the controversy by force of arms; and they of Tegea
sent an ambassador to the Baotians, to desire their assistance:
whereupon the Beotians, without delay, made Epaminondas gene-
ral, and sent him, with a strong army, to the aid of the Tegeans.
But the Mantineans (being terrified with the Baotian army, and the
great name of Epaminondas) sent their ambassadors to the principal
enemies of the Bæotians, (the Athenians and Lacedæmonians), to
solicit them to join with the Mantineans in the war. Great forces,
therefore, being raised on both sides, many great battles were fought
in Peloponnesus; and the Lacedæmonians, as soon as they could,
broke into that part of Arcadia lying next to them. About the same
time Epaminondas was marching forward with his army, and, being
come near to Mantinea, he heard that the Lacedæmonians, with all
their forces, were wasting and spoiling the territories of Tegea; con-
ceiving, therefore, that Sparta was left naked, he undertook a weighty
affair, but fortune favoured not his enterprise. For he marched with
his army in the night against Sparta; but Agis, king of Lacedæmon,
(suspecting the craft and subtlety of Epaminondas), prudently con-
jectured what possibly might be designed: therefore, to prevent
Epaminondas, he despatched away some Cretan couriers to Sparta,
to acquaint them that the Boeotians were just then upon their march,
in order to surprise the city, and that he himself would make all the
haste he possibly could to relieve them; and therefore charged them
to look to the place, and not in the least to be afraid, for he would
be with them presently. The Cretans observed their orders with all
expedition, by which the Lacedæmonians (strangely, and on a sud-
den) prevented the ruin of their country: for, if the stratagem had
not been discovered, Epaminondas had certainly surprised Sparta.
So that the policy and contrivance of both the generals justly chal-
lenge their due praise; yet the prudent care of a skilful commander
must here be especially attributed to the Lacedæmonian. Epami-
nondas, having now marched all the night long, at break of day came
up to Sparta; but Agesilaus, who was left to guard the city, (having
had intelligence but a little before), did what he could to put the
city in a posture of defence. To this end, he commanded the boys
that were of any considerable bigness, and the old men, to the roofs
of the houses, that they might be in a capacity to drive back the
enemy from thence: then, placing all the strong and lusty men in
the several difficult passes that led into the city, and, blocking up all
other places where possibly an entrance might be made, he waited for
the coming of the enemy,
.
Vol. 2, No. 41.
a
66
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Epaminondas, having divided his army into three parts, made an
assault round the town at one and the same time; but, when he dis-
cerned in what order the Spartans were placed to oppose him, he
presently understood that his design was discovered: however, though
he was inuch obstructed by the strait and narrow passages, and forced
to fight in small parties with great bodies of men at once, and many
were killed on both sides, yet he would not draw off till the Lacedæ-
monian army came up near unto Sparta. The Spartans, therefore,
being now reinforced in such great strength, and night coming on,
he left off the assault.
Then he was informed by some prisoners, that the Mantineans,
with all the power of the city, were hastening towards him, to the
assistance of the Lacedæmonians: upon which he marched away,
and encamped not far from the city. But presently, commanding
his soldiers to eat their suppers, and, leaving there a body of horse,
whom he commanded to kindle fires all the night, he marched away
with the rest of the army, with a design on a sudden to cut off all
them that were left in Mantinea. The next day (having marched a
.
long way) he unexpectedly assaulted them of Mantinea, but failed in
his design; and, though he had (as a diligent commander) provided
all things that were necessary, yet fortune now opposed him, and so
he lost the prize. For as soon as he came near the city, which was
then naked, and without any defence, six thousand Athenian auxili-
aries entered into Mantinea at the other end of the town, under the
command of Hegelocus, a person of good esteem among the citizens,
who, having put a sufficient garrison into the city, with the rest stood
in battalia ready to engage. And presently appeared the armies,
both of the Lacedæmonians and Mantineans. And now every one
prepared to put all to the hazard of a battle, and therefore sent for
their allics out of all parts. The Elians, Lacedæmonians, Athe-
nians, and some others, sided with the Mantineans: their forces de
mounted to above twenty thousand foot, and two thousand horse.
The most considerable persons of Arcadia for riches and valour, toge.
ther with the Achaians, Bæotians, Argives, and some of the Pelo-
ponnesians, and other confederates, joined with the Tegeans, whọ
amounted, in the whole, to above thirty thousand foot, and three
thousand horse.
And now the armies on both sides took the field, in order to de.
cide the matter, and drew up in battalia; and the soothsayers, from
the view of the sacrifices, (offered here and there), declared victory
to their several parties. The Mantineans, and the rest of the Arca-
dians, (because the war was in their own country), were in the right
wing, supported by the Lacedæmonians, drawn up next to them.
Chap. X.
67
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
Next to the Lacedæmonians were placed the Elians and Achaians,
and some others of the weaker part of the army completed that
wing. The left wing consisted of the Athenians. On the other
side, the Thebans placed themselves in the left wing, opposite to the
Arcadians; and the Argives held the right. The rest of the army,
Eubeans, Locrians, Sicyonians, Messenians, Maleans, and Æneians,
and the other confederates, made up the main body. The horse on
both sides were placed on the flanks. The armies being thus drawn
up, while they stood facing one another for some time, the trumpets
at Jength sounded a charge, and the armies set up so great a shout,
as if both sides were assured of the victory. The horse from the
wings first charged one another, with the greatest fury imaginable:
the Athenian horse charged the Thebans, but were worsted, not so
much by the valour and hardiness of the Thebans, or their skill in
martial affairs, (for in these the Athenians were inferior to none), as
by their number, and being better armed and appointed, and far ex-
ceeding the other in order and manner of battle. For the Athenians
had very few darters among them, whereas the Thebans had three
times as many, besides slingers and archers from the Thessalians,
who were used to be exercised in that way of fighting from their
childhood, and by that means were always very serviceable in all en-
counters.
The Athenians therefore, what with being galled by the light-
armed men, and overpowered by the horse, were forced to fly. Yet,
because they fled out from the wings, they easily repaired the damage
they had sustained for they broke not into their own foot in their
flight, but, falling in with some Eubeans, and some other merce-
naries, who were sent out before to take possession of some hills near
the place, (with whom they had a sharp engagement), they put every
man of them to the sword. For the Theban horse did not pursue
them that fled, but charged in upon the enemy's foot, with a design
to break through them; upon which the dispute was very hot and
sharp, but at length the Athenians fled outright: but the colonel of
the Elian horse (who was in the rear-guard of the army*) succoured
them, and, cutting off many of the Baotians, renewed the fight.
And thus was the rout in the Athenian left wing in a great measure
repaired by the Elian horsemen. In the engagement by the horse
in the other wing, the success was a little while doubtful; but, within
a short time, the Mantineans were put to the rout, by the multi-
tude and strength of the Boeotian and Thessalian horsemen, and,
with great loss, were forced to fly for shelter to their own battalion of
The Mautinçañ army,
$
68
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
foot. And this was the issue of the engagement between the horse.
The foot, as soon as they engaged, fought with wonderful heat and
resolution. Never was there greater armies in the field in any battle
between Grecians and Grecians; nor more brave and excellent com-
manders, or that ever approved themselves with more valour and
courage; for the Boeotians and Lacedæmonians, who were in that
age counted the best land-soldiers in the world, fronted one another,
and began the onset with that fury, as if they valued not their lives in
the least. They first began with their lances, which being, for the
most part, broken in pieces by the violence and heat of the charge,
they took to their swords: then, setting foot to foot, all sorts of
wounds, curable and mortal, slight and deadly, were given and re-
ceived, without remitting any thing of their first heat or resolution;
and they continued in this sharp engagement with that valour, and
such a long time, (neither side giving the least ground), that victory
seemed to hover over both, (uncertain where it would fall); for every
one slighted and contemned danger, and (desiring nothing more than
to make himself remarkable by some glorious piece of service for his
country) with a brave gallantry of mind coveted to exchange life for
honour. After the battle bad continued long, and none were able to
judge who would be the conquerors, Epaminondas (conceiving the
present state of the parties engaged required his assistance) resolved
to decide the matter, with the hazard of his own life. To that end
taking a choice band of the most able men he had with him, and,
drawing them up in close order, he forthwith charged at the head of
them, and was the first that cast his javelin, and killed the Laceda-
monian general, and then broke into the midst of his enemies; then
others presently following, (beating down all before him), he clove
asunder the enemy's division: for, the fame of Epaminondas, and
the strength of that body he then had, with him, struck such a terror
into the Lacedæmonians, that they turned their backs, and began to
make away; upon which the Bæotians pursued close, and killed all
that were in the rear, so that heaps of carcases covered the ground.
At length, when the Lacedaemonians perceived that the fierceness
and heat of Epaminondas had precipitated him too far, they all in a
body made up to him, throwing an infinite number of darts at him,
of which he put by some, and received others upon his target, and
plucked others out of his body with his own hands, and threw them
back into the face of the enemy. At last, while he was most heroi-
cally exerting himself to gain the victory for his country, he received
a mortal wound in his breast by a dart, thrown* with such force, as
By one Anticrates, a Spartan.
Chap. X.
69
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that the wood broke, and the iron, with the truncheon, remained in
his body, so that, by the greatness of the wound, he suddenly fell to
the ground. And now the contest grew very sharp and hot for the
recovery of his body, and, after a great slaughter made, the Thebans,
being of much stronger bodies than the Lacedæmonians, at length
put their enemies to fight. The Baotians. pursued them a little
way, but presently returned, looking upon it absolutely necessary to
have the power of the bodies. The trumpets, therefore, sounding a
retreat, both armies drew off; and each party erected a trophy, both
pretending to the victory. For the Athenians possessed the bodies
of all those Eubeans and mercenaries that were slain at the hill:
on the other side, the Bæotians that had routed the Lacedæmonians,
and were masters of the dead, claimed the victory. And, for some
time, neither side sent any trumpets to treat for the burying of the
dead, lest they that were first should be thought to yield the day.
Yet at last the Lacedæmonians first sent a trumpet to procure liberty
to bury their men; whereupon all were buried that were slain on
both sides.
But Epaminondas (yet living) was brought back into the camp;
and, when the physicians that were sent for told him, that he would
certainly die as soon as the dart was drawn out of his body, he was
not at all daunted; but first called his armour-bearer, and asked
whether his shield was safe? When he answered, it was, and shewed
it to him, then he inquired, which side had got the day? The youth
making answer, that the Baotians were victors, “ Why then,” said
he, “Now is the time to die," and forthwith ordered the dart to be
drawn out: and, when all his friends round about him cried out, and
one, with great lamentation, expressed himself thus _" And what!
O Epaminondas ! dost thou die childless?” “ No, by Jupiter!” said
he, “ But I leave behind me two daughters, whereof the one is
Victory at Leuctra, and the other at Mantinea.” And so, upon
drawing out the head of the dart, he quietly breathed out his last,
without any shew of trouble, or disorder of mind.
And because it has been our usual method to give an honourable
testimony of worthy and deserving men after their death, we think
we might be justly blamed if we should omit so brave a man, without
a peculiar remark. For he seems to me to be not only the most
skilful general, and of the most just and generous disposition of any
of his own time, (among whom the most famous were Pelopidas the
Theban, Timotheus, Conon, Chabrias, and Iphicrates, Athenians,
and Agesilaus the Spartan, (who was a little before him); but liks-
wise of any that lived before him in the time of the Medes and i
sians, as Solon, Themistocles, Miltiades, Cimon, Myronides, Peric
70
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and some other Athenians; and Gelon, the son of Dinomenes, in Si-
cily, and some others, whose several excellencies, if any will com-
pare with the military art, and the glory of the arms of Epaminon-
das, he shall soon find him to exceed them in many degrees. For;
among them, some one peculiar excellence only was remarkable in
each particular person; but, in him, a constellation of virtues were
housed together: for, in strength and comeliness of body, volubility
of tongue, gallantness of spirit, contempt of wealth, and impartial
justice, (and that which was far before all the rest), in valour and skill
in martial affairs, (absolutely necessary for a general), he far exceeded
them all. When alive, he gained the sovereign power for his coun-
try; but, by his death they lost it again, and their affairs declined to
the worse ever afterwards; and at length, by the sloth and ignorance
of their commanders, they were utterly ruined, and reduced to perfect
slavery. And this was the end of Epaminondas, a man honoured
and esteemed of all.
After this battle, the Grecians, being tired out with continual wars,
and contented now to draw stakes, put an end to the war, and entered
into a general league, offensive and defensive, in which the Messenians
were included. But the Lacedæmonians (by reason of the implaca-
ble hatred they bore the Messenians) would not agree to the articles
of peace: and therefore they, of all the Grecians, were the only men
that swore not to the league. As to the writers of this year, Xeno-
phon the Athenian coneludes his history of the wars of Greece with
the death of Epaminondas. Anaximenes likewise, of Lampsacus,
wrote the first part of his history of the Grecian affairs, from the ori-
gin of the gods, and the first being of mankind, to the battle of Man-
tinea, and the death of Epaminondas, containing almost all the affairs
both of the Grecians and barbarians, in twelve volumes. Lastly,
Philistus, who wrote the history of Dionysius the younger, in two
books, ends them here.
Chap. XI.
71
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. XI.
A defection from the Persians in Asia. Tachos, king of Egypt,
declares war against the Persians. The war between Tachos
and his son Nectanabis. The death of Artaxerxes Mnemon.
Agesilaus routs the Egyptians that pursued him, and restores
Tachos to his kingdom. Quarrels again in Greece, after the
battle of Mantinea, between the Nlegalopolitans and the neigh-
bouring towns. Peparethos besieged by Alexander of Pheræ.
He routs Leosthenes at sea. Chares, the Athenian admiral:
his villanics,
THIS year, Molon was lord-chancellor of Athens; and Lucius Ge-
nucius, and Quintus Servilius, Roman consuls. In their times, the
inhabitants of the sea-coasts of Asia made a defection from the Per-
sians; and some of the governors of the provinces, and chief com-
manders, began new broils, and rose up in arms against Artaxerxes.
Tachos, likewise, king of Egypt, declared war against the Persians,
and employed himself in building of ships, and raising of land-forces:
he brought over, also, the Lacedæmonians to join with him, and hired
many soldiers out of the cities of Greece: for the Spartans bore a
grudge against Artaxerxes, because he had ordered the Messenians to
be comprehended in the public league among the Grecians. This
great conspiracy caused the Persian king, likewise, to exert himself
to raise forces: for he was to engage in a war with the king of Egypt,
the Grecian cities in Asia, the Lacedæmonians and their confede-
tates, and the lord-lieutenants and chief commanders of the sea
coasts, all at one and the same time. Among these, Ariobarzanes,
lord-lieutenant of Phrygia, was the chief, who had possessed himself
of the kingdom of Mithridates, after his death: with him joined
Mausolus, prince of Caria, who had many considerable towns and
castles under his command, the metropolis of which was Halicar-
nassus, wherein was a most stately citadel, the royal seat or palace
of Caria; and with these were confederated Orontes, governor of
Mysia, and Autophradates, of Lydia; and, of the Ionian nation, the
Lycians, Pisidians, Pamphylians, and Cilicians; and besides them,
the Syrians and Phænicians, and almost all that bordered upon the
Asiatic sea. By this great defection, the king lost one half of his
revenues, and what remained was not sufficient to defray the neces.
sary charges of the war,
72
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Those who revolted from the king, made Orontes general of the
army, who, after he had received the command, and money enough
to pay twenty thousand bired soldiers for one whole year, betrayed
the confederates that had so intrusted him. For, being corrupted
with large bribes, and promised to be the only governor of all the
provinces bordering upon the sea, if he would deliver up the rebels
into the power of the king, he was wrought upon; and, in the execu-
tion of his treachery, he first seized upon them that brought him the
money, and sent them prisoners to the king; and then betrayed se-
veral cities, and companies of hired soldiers, to such lieutenants as
the king had sent into those parts. The like treachery happened in
Cappadocia, which was accompanied with something more than or-
dinarily remarkable. Artabazus, the king of Persia's general, had
invaded Cappadocia with a great army, whom Datames, the governor
of that province, opposed with a strong body of horse, and twenty
thousand foot, of mercenaries. The father-in-law of Datames, and
general of his horse (to ingratiate himself with the king, and provide
for his own safety) stole away in the night with the horse to Arta-
bazus, having so agreed with him the day before. Datames (encou-
raging his mercenaries to be faithful to him, by promising to reward
them liberally) with all speed marched after these treacherous ras-
cals, and overtook them just as they were joining the enemy: upon
which the soldiers of Artabazus likewise fell upon these runagate
horse, and killed all before them. For Artabazus (at the first igno-
rant, not knowing the meaning of the thing) thought that he who had
betrayed Datames, was now acting a new piece of treason; therefore
he commanded his soldiers to fall upon the horse that were advan-
eing towards them, and not spare a man. So that Mithrobarzanes
(for that was the traitor's name) being got between them that took
him for a traitor, and those that pursued him, as one that they knew
was really such, was in an inextricable labyrinth: being, therefore,
in this strait, (and having vo time now further to consider), he made
it his business to defend himself with all the resolution imaginable,
and so plied both parties, that he made a great slaughter amongst
them. At length, upwards of ten thousand men being killed, Data-
mes put the rest to flight, and cut off in the pursuit great numbers of
them, and at length caused the trumpet to sound a retreat, and called
off his men. Some of the horsemen that survived returned to Data-
mes, and begged for pardon; the rest wandered about, and knew not
whither to turn themselves. But Datames caused his army to sur-
round five hundred of those traitors, and to dart them to death.
And, though he had formerly gained the reputation of an excellent
soldier, yet now, by this instance of his valour and prudent conduct,
Chap. XI.
773
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
his name grew much more famous than before. Artaxerxes, the
king, being informed of this stratagem, made all the haste he could
to be rid of Datames, and, within a short time after, cut him off by an
ambuscade.
Whilst these things were in acting, Rheomithres was sent by the
rebels into Egypt, to Tachos, the king, and, having received five
hundred talents, and fifty sail of men of war, he returned to Leuce,
in Asia, and, sending for many of the revolted lords and officers to
come to him thither, he seized them, and sent them all away prison-
ers to the king; and, by this piece of treachery, regained the king's
favour, who was formerly much displeased with him.
Now Tachos, king of Egypt, had prepared all things necessary for
the war: for he had a fleet of two hundred sail, ten thousand Grecian
mercenaries, and four score thousand Egyptian foot. He gave the
command of the ten thousand mercenaries to Agesilaus, who was
sent from the Lacedæmonians, with a thousand men, to the aid of the
Egyptians; because he was counted the best soldier of any among
them, and had the repute of a most expert commander. Chabrias
was made admiral of the feet, who was not sent there by public au-
thority, but (upon the persuasion of Tachos) served him as a private
man. The king reserved to himself the chief command of the whole
of the army. But Agesilaus would have persuaded him to continue in
Egypt, and to manage the war by his lieutenants; but he would not
hearken to it, though he advised bim for the best. For, when the
army was far distant from Egypt, and now encamped in Phænicia,
the governor of Egypt, whom he had deputed in his absence, re-
volted, and sent to Nectanabis, the king's son*, to take upon him
the kingdom of Egypt, which kindled the sparks which afterwards
broke forth into a most cruel and bloody war. For Nectanabis, who
had been made general of the Egyptian forces, and some time before
sent out of Phænicia to take in some cities of Syria, being privy,
and consenting to the treason against his father, drew the com-
manders of the army by large gifts, and the soldiers by as large pro-
mises, to join with him in the war. Egypt, therefore, being now
possessed by the rebels, Tachos was so terrified at the thing, that he
fled through Arabia, to the king of Persia, and begged his pardon for
what he had done; whom Artaxerxes not only forgave, but made hiin
general of the army he had raised against the Egyptians.
Not long after, the king of Persia died, having reigned three-and-
forty years. Ochus succeeded him, and governed three-and-twenty
years, taking upon him the surname of Artaxerxes : for, Artaxerxes
ruling the kingdom with great justice and integrity, and being an
• Os rather, his brother or sister's son,
VOL. 2, No. 41,
74
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
earnest promoter and lover of peace, and prosperous in all his affairs,
the Persians decreed, that all the succeeding kings should be called
by his name. And now Tachos, the king of Egypt, returned to
Agesilaus, and presently Nectanabis led above an hundred thousand
men against his father, and dared him to try his title to the kingdom
by the sword. When Agesilaus discerned that the king was fearful,
not daring to engage, he heartened him up all he could, and bid him
be of good courage, for it was not number, but valour, that carried
away the victory. But, not being able to prevail, he was obliged to
go back with him into a certain large city, there to shelter himself;
where they were presently besieged by the Egyptians, who, after the
loss of a great number of their men in assaulting the town, drew a
trench and a wall round the city, which was finished in a short time,
by having many hands at work. At length, when provision failed,
Tachos gave up all for lost: but Agesilaus (encouraging the soldiers,
and telling them all would be well) in the night broke through the
enemy's guards, and, to admiration, got off safe with all his men; but
the Egyptians (pursuing close at their heels, and, being in an open
champaign country) proposed by their great numbers to surround
them, and so cut them off, every man.
But Agesilaus in the mean time, having possessed himself of a
place secured on both sides by water from the river, (conveyed through
sluices and trenches made by art), waited there for the enemy. And,
having drawn up his men in such order as best suited the ground,
(and being defended by the arms of the river, so that he could not
be hemmed in), he there fought with the Egyptians, whose numbers
were of so little advantage to them in that place, and the valour of the
Grecians so far before them, that Agesilaus made a great slaughter
amongst them, and put the rest to flight. After which Tachos was
presently restored to his kingdom; and he rewarded Agesilaus (the
only instrument of his restoration) by many honourable gifts, and so
dismissed him, who, in his return homewards, fell sick at Cyrene, and
there died. His body was embalmed with honey, and brought back
to Sparta, where he was royally interred.
Hitherto thus proceeded matters in Asia. But in Peloponnesus,
though after the battle at Mantinea a general peace was made among
the Arcadians, yet they scarcely observed the league for one year, but
fell into new broils and wars with one another. It was one of the ar-
ticles of the league, that every one should return from the battle into
their several countries. Therefore those neighbouring cities that had
been translated, and forced to seat themselves at Megalopolis, which
then they bore very grievously, now of their own accord returned to
their old habitations: but the other Megalopolitans endeavoured once
Chap. XI.
75
DIODORUS SICULUS.
more to force them to leave their ancient seats. Hence arose a great
contest: they of the old towns craved the assistance of the Manti-
neans and the rest of the Arcadians, and likewise of the Elians and
other confederates of the Mantineans. On the other hand, they of
Megalopolis addressed themselves to the Athenians, for their aid and
assistance; who, without delay, ordered three thousand heavy-armed
men, and three hundred horse, under the command of Pammenes.--
Whereupon he marched to Megalopolis, and afterwards, by storming
some of the towns, and terrifying others, he forced them all at length
to return to Megalopolis. And thus were these towns reduced into
one city, and the tumults which came to this height appeased and
composed.
Among the historians of this time, Athanis of Syracuse, began his
history of Dion with this year, comprised in twenty-three books. He
continued likewise the history of Philistus, seven years further in one
book; and, treating of matters summarily, made it one entire and
perfect history.
Afterwards, when Nicophemus was chief magistrate of Athens, and
Caius Sulpitius and Caius Licinius executed the consular authority
at Rome, Alexander, tyrant of Pheræ, fitted out several privateers to
the Cyclade islands, and having taken some of them by force, carried
away a great number of captives. He then landed his soldiers in Pe-
parethos *, and besieged the city. But the Peparethians being re-
lieved by the Athenian garrison, under the command of Leosthenes,
who had been formerly left there, Alexander set upon the Athenians
themselves. It so happened, that as they were watching, and had
set a guard upon Alexander's fleet, which then lay at Panormus, he
suddenly fell upon them, and obtained an unexpected victory: for he
not only rescued his men from the imminent dangers wherewith they
were surrounded at Panormus, but also took five Athenian gallies,
one of Peparethos, and six hundred prisoners. The Athenians, be-
ing enraged at this misfortune, condemned Leosthenes to death, and
confiscated all bis goods, and made Chares commander in his stead,
and sent him with a considerable feet into those parts; who spent
his time only in scaring the enemy, and oppressing the confederates,
For sailing to Corcyra, a confederate city, he stirred up such seditions
and tumults there, as ended in many slaughters, rapines, and plun-
derings of men's goods and estates; which caused the Athenians to
be ill-spoken of by all the confederates. He committed many other
villanies; and, to sum up all in a few words, he did nothing but what
tended to the disgrace and dishonour of his country.
>
One of the Cyclade islands, now Lemene,
76
Book XV.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Dionysiodorus and Anaxis, Baotian writers, who composed a his-
tory of Grecian affairs, end their relations with this year. And now,
having given an account of those affairs, and things done before the
reign of Philip, according to our first design, we shall put an end to
this book. In the next following shall be comprehended whatever
was done by that king, from the beginning of his reign to the time
of his death; with other things that happened in the known parts of
the world,
77
DIODORUS SICULUS.
SICULUS.
BOOK XVI.
PREFACE.
:
IT is the duty of all writers of history, whether they treat of the ac-
tions of kings, or of particular cities, to relate the whole from the be-
ginning to the conclusion: for we conceive that thereby the history
is both better remembered, and more clearly understood. For im-
perfect relations, without knowledge of the issue of what is begun,
gives an unpleasant check to the diligent reader's eager expectation.
But where the matter is drawn down by a continued thread to the end
of the narration, such writings make the history complete in all its
parts; but more especially, if the nature of things done lead the writer
as it were by the hand, this course is by no means to be neglected.
Since, therefore, we are come to the affairs of Philip son of Amyn-
tas, we shall, according to the former rule, endeavour to comprehend
in this book all the actions of this king. For he reigned as king of
Macedon two-and-thirty years, and who, making use at first but of
small means, at length advanced his kingdom to the greatest in Eu-
rope; and made Macedon, which at the time of his coming to the
crown was under the servile yoke of the Illyrians, mistress of many
potent cities and countries. And through his valour the Grecian ci-
ties voluntarily submitted themselves to him, and made him general
of all Greece. And having subdued those that robbed and spoiled
the temple at Delphos *, coming in aid of the god there, he was made
a member of the senate of the Amphictyons; and as a reward of his
* The Fhocians.
78
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
zeal to the gods, the right of voting in the senate which belonged to
the Phocians, whom he had overcome, was allotted to him *.
After he overcame the Illyrians, Pæones, Thracians, Scythians, and
the countries adjoining to them, bis thoughts were wholly employed
how to destroy the Persian monarchy. But, after he had freed all
the Grecian cities, and was promised forces to be raised for the expe-
dition into Asia, in the midst of all his preparations he was prevented
by death: but he left those, and so many more forces behind him,
that his son Alexander had no occasion to make use of the assistance
of his confederates in overturning the Persian empire. And all those
things he did not so much by the favour of fortune, as by the great-
ness of his own valour: for this king excelled most in the art of a
general, stoutness of spirit, and clearness of judgment and apprehen-
sion. But that we may not in a preface set forth his actions before
hand, we shall proceed to the orderly course of the history, making
some short remarks on the times that went before.
CHAP. I.
Philip, a hostage at Thebes, makes his escape; beats the Atheniais;
and afterwards makes peace with them. Subdues the Pæones, and
routs the Illyrians and makes peace with them.
WHEN Callimedes was archon at Athens, in the hundred and fifth
olympiad, in which Porus the Cyrenian was victor, and Cneius Ge-
nucius and Lucius Æmilius were Roman consuls, Philip the son of
Amyntas, and father of Alexander, who conquered the Persians, came
to the crown in the manner following:
Amyntas being brought under by the Illyrians, was forced to pay
tribute to the conquerors; who having taken his youngest son Philip
as an hostage, delivered him to be kept by the Thebans; who com-
mitted the youth to the care of the father of Epaminondas †, with or-
The court of the Amphictrons was the great court of Greece, which sat at Delphos
in Phocis, like to the States General at the Hague. -Pansan, lib. 19, cap 3. The llo.
cians had two votes in that assembly.
* Poismnus was the father of Epaminondas,
Chap. I.
79
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
ders to look to his charge with all diligence, and honourably to educate
and instruct him,
A Pythagorean philosopher was at that time tutor to Epaminondas,
with whom Philip being brought up, he improved more than ordi-
nary in the Pythagorean philosophy. And both these scholars em-
ploying the utmost of their parts and diligence in prosecuting their
studies, both by that means became famous for their virtuous quali-
fications. Epaminondas, it is known to all, having run through ma-
ny hazards and difficulties, beyond all expectation, gained the sove-
reignty of all Greece for his country. And Philip having the same
advantages, shewed himself nothing inferior to Epaminondas in glo-
rious achievements: for after the death of Amyntas, his eldest son
Alexander succeeded him in the kingdom; but Ptolemy Alorites
murdered him and usurped the government: and he himself was
served the same sauce by Perdiccas; who being afterwards overcome
in a great battle by the Illyrians, and killed in the very time when
there was most need of a king, Philip, the brother, made his escape
and took possession of the kingdom, now in a very shattered con-
dition: for there were above four thousand Macedonians killed in the
fight, and those that survived were in such consternation and fear of
the Illyrians, that they had no heart left for the furtber prosecution
of the war.
About the same time the Pæones, neighbours to the Macedonians,
in contempt of them wasted their country; and the Illyrians raised
again great forces, and designed another expedition against the Ma-
cedonians. And, to aggravate the matter, one Pausanias *, of the
royal family, by the assistance of the king of Thrace, endeavoured to
invade the kingdom of Macedon. The Athenians likewise, enemies
to Philip, endeavoured to restore Argæust to the kingdom of his an-
cestors, and to this purpose had sent away their general Mantius,
with three thousand well-armed men, and a most excellent and weli-
provided navy. Hereupon the Macedonians, by reason of the late
defeat, and the storm that then threatened them, were is great fear
and perplexity: however, notwithstanding all the difficulties and fear
of those things that were at hand, Philip, nothing discouraged with
these dreadful clouds of mischief that seemed to hang over his head,
by his speeches in the daily assemblies retained the Macedonians in
their duty; and, by his eloquence (wherein he excelled) stirring
them up to be courageous, revived their drooping spirits. Then,
setting upon reforming the military discipline, he completely armed
his men, and trained them every day, teaching them how to handle
* Son of Eropus, who formerly usurped the kingdom of Macedonia.
+ Another son of Eropus.
a
80
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SÍCULUS.
their arms, and other postures of war. He likewise instituted the
new way of drawing up in a close body, imitating the heroes at Troy,
in locking their shields together; so that he was the first that found
out the Macedonian phalanx.
He was very courteous and winning in his converse, and gained
the people's hearts both by his bounty at present, and his generous
promises of future rewards; very wisely, likewise, (as it were by so
many engines), defending himself against the many and various dan-
gers that were pressing upon him. For when he discerned that the
Athenians made it their chief business to recover Amphipolis, and that
Argæus was endeavoured to be restored to his kingdom for that end,
he left the city* of his own accord, suffering them to govern them-
selves according to their own laws.
He likewise sent an ambassador to the Pæones, and corrupted some
of them with bribes, and ensnared others with fair and winning pro.
mises, and for the present made peace with them. He likewise pre-
vented Pausanias from being restored, by bribing the king that was
ready to assist him for that purpose.
In the mean time Mantius, the Athenian admiral, being arrived
at Methonet, there lay; but he sent Ægæus forward with a body of
mercenaries, to Ægæi. Coming to the city, he endeavoured to per-
suade the Ægæans to allow of his return, and to appear the first for
his restoration to the kingdom; but none consenting, he went back
to Methone.
Presently after, Philip, advancing with a well-appointed army, set
upon them, and cut off many of the mercenaries; the rest, who had
fled to a hill near at hand, (having first delivered up to him the fugi-
tives), he dismissed by agreement.
Philip being conqueror in this first battle, greatly encouraged the
Macedonians, and made them hearty and eager to undergo further
toils and difficulties.
Whilst these things were acting, the Thracians planted a colony
at Cremides, as it was heretofore called, which the king afterwards
named Philippi, after his own name, and filled it with inhabitants.
From this time Theopompus of Chios begins his history of Philip,
and continues it in fifty-eight books, of which five are controverted.
Afterwards Eucharistus was archon of Athens, and Quintus Ser-
vilius and Lucius Genucius were consuls at Rome, when Philip
sent ambassadors to Athens with proposals of peace, and prevailed
with the people, upon the account that he was willing to quit all
his right in Amphipolis.
* Amphipolis.
Nethone, in Macedonia.
: Ægæ, in Macedonia.
Chap. I.
31
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Being therefore thus freed from the war with the Athenians, and
hearing that Agis, king of the Pæones, was dead, he judged that a
fair opportunity was offered him to invade the Pæones; and to that
end he entered their country with a considerable army, overcame
them in battle, and forced them to stoop to the Macedonian yoke.
But still the Illyrians* remained an eye-sore to him, whom his
heart and all his thoughts were continually at work to bring under.
To that end he called a general council, and hy a speech fitted for
the occasion, having spirited the soldiers to the war, he led an army
into the country of the Illyrians, of no less than ten thousand foot,
and six hundred horse.
Bardyllis, king of the Illyrians, hearing of his coming, first sent
ambassadors to Philip, to renew the league between them upon these
terms _That both of them should keep those towns that they then
had. To which Philip answered _That he was very desirous of peace, ,
but resolved not to admit of it before the Illyrians had quitted all the
towns belonging to the kingdom of Macedon.
The ambassadors therefore being returned without effecting any
thing, Bardyllis (confiding in the valour of his soldiers, and encou-
raged by his former victories) marched forth against his enemies with
a strong army, having with bim ten thousand choice foot, and five
hundred horse.
When the armies drew near one to another, they suddenly set up
a great shout, and so commenced the attack. Philip being in the
right wing with a strong body of Macedonians, commanded his
horse to wheel about, for the purpose of charging the enemy in the
Hanks and ke kimself charged the front; upon which there was a hot
engagement.
On the other side, the Illyrians drew up in a square body, and va-
liantly joined battie.
The valour of both armies was such, that the issue of the battle
was a long time doubtful; many fell, but many more were wounded;
and the advantage was now here, and then there, according as the
valour and resolution of the combatants gave vigour and life to
the business.
At length, when the horse charged botlı upon the flank and rear,
and Philip, with his stoutest soldiers, fought like a hero in the front,
the whole body of the Illyrians was routed, and forced to fly outright;
whom the Macedonians pursued a long way. After many were killed
in the pursuit, Philip at length gave the signal to his inen to retire,
and erected a trophy, and buried the dead.
* Illyrium, now Dalmatin; and the inhabitants Dalmatians, or Sclavoniana,
Vot 2. No. 41.
82
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Then the Illyriaus sent another embassy, and procured a peace,
having first quitted all the cities belonging to Macedon. There were
slain of the Illyrians in this battle above seven thousand men. Hav-
ing thus given an account of things done in Macedonia and Illyrium,
we shall now relate the affairs of other nations.
CHAP. II.
The actions of Dionysius the younger, in Sicily and other parts.
Dion's flight to Corinth, and his return to Sicily. Andromachus
peoples Taurominium. The civil wars in Eubæa. The social
war between the Athenians and other nations, Philip takes
Amphipolis and other cities. His policy to gain the Olynthians,
and other places in Grecce.
IN Sicily, Dionysius the younger, tyrant of Syracuse, who came some
time before to the kingdom, (being of an inactive spirit, and much
inferior to his father), under the veil of a peaceful and gentle dispo-
sition, endeavoured to cover his sloth and cowardice; and therefore,
though the war with the Carthaginians descended upon him with the
kingdom, yet he made peace with them.
In a careless manner, likewise, he made war for some time upon
the Lucanians; and though he had the advantage in some of the last
fights, yet he was very fond of the terms and conditions offered for
putting an end to the war.
He built two cities in Apulia, the better to secure the passage of
his shipping through the Ionian sea: for the barbarians dwelling on
the sea-coasts had a great number of pirates wandering about, where-
by the Adriatic sea was greatly infested, and made troublesome to.
the merchants.
Afterwards giving himself up to his ease, he entirely neglected all
warlike exercises; and though he was lord of the greatest kingdom
in Europe, and had a dominion bound fast with a diamond, (as his
father was used to boast), yet through his effeminate sloth and idle-
ness be lost it on a sudden. How it was taken from him, and
how he conducted himself in every particular, we shall endeavour
now to declare.
At this time Cephisidorus was lord chancellor at Athens, and
* Lucanians, in Italy,
Chap. II.
83
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Caius Licinius and Caius Sulpitius were consuls at Rome; when
Dion, the brother of Hipparinus, one of the most noble persons
among the Syracusans, fled out of Sicily; and afterwards, by the
braveness of his spirit, and his excellent accomplishments, restored
not only the Syracusans, but other Sicilians, to their antient liberties,
by these means.
Dionysius the elder had issue by both his wives: by the second
wife, the daughter of Hipparinus, (who was in great esteem among
the Syracusans), he had two sons, Hipparinus and Narsæus. Dion
was the brother of this second wife; a man well skilled in philosophy,
and the most expert soldier, in his time, of all the Syracusans. The
nobleness of his birth, and greatness of his spirit, made him suspected
by the tyrant, because, upon that account, he seemed to be a fit
a
instrument to overturn the tyranny. Dionysius therefore fearing
him, determined to send him farther away from him, and so put him
to death. Dion, perceiving the design, at first discovered it to some
of his friends: afterwards he fled from Sicily to Peloponnesus, taking
with bim his brother Megacles, and Cariclides, the general of the
army under the tyrant. When he arrived at Corinth he solicited
the Corinthians to assist him in the recovery of the liberty of Syra-
cuse; and presently collected a band of mercenaries, and employed
himself in procuring arms: upon which many volunteers coming in
to him with all sorts of arms, he mustered a considerable force of
mercenary soldiers. Then having hired two ships, he put his men
and arms on Loard; and with these only passed over from Zacynthus*
(near adjoining to Cephalenia) to Sicily; and commanded Cariclides
to follow presently after him to Syracuse, with a few gallies, and
other ships of burden.
While these things were acting, Andromachus of Taurominium,
the father of Timæus the historian, a man eminent both for his riches
and wisdom, brought together from all parts all the exiles of Naxos,
(which Dionysius had razed), and gave them the hill called Taurus,
lying above Naxos. And because he and his family had continued
there a long time, he called it Taurominium, from their residence in
Taurus. The inhabitants afterwards grew very rich, and the city bea
came famous by its prosperous increase in worldly blessings. But in
our age the Taurominians were removed from their country by
Cæsar, and the city received a Ronian colony.
In the mean time the inhabitants of Euboea begao quarrelling with
each other, and one party resorted to the Baotians for aid, and the
other to the Athenians; and so a war broke out throughout all
Eubea. But though there were many light skirmishes between
* Now Zant.
84
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
them, sometimes the Thebans prevailing, and at other times the
Athenians, yet they never fought any great battle.
At length the island being wasted by this civil war, and many
men destroyed all over the land, with much ado (being made more
wise by their own slaughters) they came to an agreement, and a
peace was concluded: and the Baotians returning home, laid down
their arms.
The Athenians now began a war called the Social War, (which
continued three years), on account of the defection of the Chians,
Rhodians, them of Coos, and the Byzantines; to which war Chares
and Chabrias were sent with an army, as generals: making against
Chios*, they found the Chians assisted by the Byzantines, Rhodians,
Coians, and Mausolus, the petty king of Canat. These generals
dividing their forces, besieged the city both by sea and land. Chares
commanded the land-forces, and assaulted the walls, and fought with
them of the garrison in the open field, who made sallies upon
him.
But Chabrias was engaged in a sharp fight at sea in the very harbour;
and his ship being pierced through with the beaks of the enemy's, he
was greatly distressed; and those who were in the other ships,
thought fit to comply with the time, and so fairly ran away. But the
admiral chusing rather to die gloriouly than give up all dishonour-
ably, in defending of his ship received a wound, which put an end
to his life.
About the same time, Philip king of Macedon, after his victory
over the Illyrians in that great battle, having subdued all them that
dwelt as far as to the marches of Lychnidus, and made an honour-
able peace with them, returned into Macedonia. And having thus
by his valour raised up and supported the tottering state and condi-
tion of the Macedonians, his name became great and famous among
them. Afterwards, being provoked by the many injuries of them of
Amphipolis, he marched against them with a great army, and apply-
ing his engines of battery to the walls, made fierce and continual
assaults, and by the battering rams threw down part of the wall, and
entered into the city through the ruins, with the slaughter of many
that opposed him; and forthwith banished his chief enemies, and
graciously spared the rest.
This city, by reason of its commodious situation in Thrace, and its
neighbourhood to other places, was of great advantage to Philip; for
he presently after took Pydna; but made a league with the Olyn-
thians, and promised to give up Potidea to them, which they had a
long time before much coveted. For in regard the city of the
3
• Chios, of the same name with the island.
+ Cana, in Lesser Asia.
Chap. III.
85
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Olynthians was both rich, potent, and populous, and upon that ac-
,
count was a place of great advantage in time of war, therefore those
that were ambitious to enlarge their dominion, strove always to gain
it: so that both the Athenians and Philip earnestly contended
which of them should prevail in having them for their confederates,
But however, Philip having taken Potidea, drew out the Athenian
garrison, and treated them with great civility, and suffered them to
return to Athens; for he bore a great respect to the people of
Athens, because that city was eminent and famous for its power
and grandeur.
He likewise delivered up Pydna* (which he had subdued) to the
Olynthians, and gave them all the grounds and territories belonging
to it. Thence he marched to Cremidest, which he enlarged, and
made more populous, and called it after his own name, Philippi.
Besides, he so improved the gold mines that were in those parts,
(which before were but inconsiderable and obscure), that by build-
ing of work-houses he advanced them to bring in a yearly revenue of
above a thousand talents. So that heaping up abundance of riches,
in a short time, by the confluence of his wealth, he advanced the
kingdom of Macedonia to a higher degree of majesty and glory, than
ever it was before: for he coined pieces of gold, (called from him
Philippics), and by the help thereof, raised a great army of merce-
naries, and bribed many of the Grecians to betray their country.
Of all which, a particular account shall be given hereafter, in the
course of the history. And now we shall bend our discourse to what
follows.
CHAP. III.
Dion's march and entry into Syracuse. Dionysius comes to the
Island, a part of Syracuse: assaults the wall erected from sea to
sea: is beaten by Dion. Alexander of Phere murdered by his
wife and his two brothers. Philip relieves the Thessalians from
the two brothers.
AGATHOCLES was archon at Athens, and Marcus Fabius, and
Caius Publius, or Poetelius, were consuls at Rome, when Dion, the
son of Hipparinus, landed in Sicily, to put down the tyranny of
Pydna, in Macedonia.
+ Crewides in Maceilonia, called Philippi, vow Pbilippo.
86
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Dionysius. This Dion in an admirable manner overturned the
greatest dominion in Europe, with the most inconsiderable force
that ever any did before him : for who would ever believe that a
man who landed with only two ships of burthen, should overcome
a king who was furnished with four hundred gallies; had an army of
an hundred thousand foot, and ten thousand horse; and was pro-
vided with arms, money, and provision, suitable and sufficient to
supply so many and great forces as we have related? And who (ex-
clusive of what we have before said) was possessed of the greatest
of all the Greek cities; so many ports and arsenals, castles so
strongly fortified and impregnable, and such a number of potent
auxiliaries! But that which much forwarded the successes of Dion,
was his great spirit, and valorous resolution, and the good-will and
kindness which the people whom he came to set free bore towards
bim. And that which was more than all these was the sloth and
effeminacy of the tyrant, and the hatred of his subjects. All these
things concentrating at one moment, produced incredible effects.
But to leave off prefacing, we shall now begin to relate affairs more
particularly.
Dion therefore proceeding from Zacynthus, near to Cephalenia,
arrived at Minva, (as it is called), in the territory of Agrigentum.
This city was built by Minos, formerly king of Crete, at the time
he was entertained by Cocalus, king of the Sicanians, when he was
seeking after Dædalus.
At this time this city was in the hands of the Carthaginians, whose
governor Paralus, Dion's friend, cheerfully received liim. Upon
this encouragement he unloaded his ships of five thousand arms, and
intrusted them with Paralus, desiring him to furnish him with car-
riages to convey them to Syracuse : and he himself with a thousand
mercenaries that had joined him, makes to the same place. In his
march he prevailed with the Agrigentines, Geloi, some of the
Sicanians, and the Sicilians that inhabited the midland; the Cama-
rinians likewise, and Madinæans, to join with him in freeing the
Syracusans from their slavery; and with these he marched forward
to give a check to the tyrant. In his march, armed men flocking
in to him from all parts, in a short time he had an army of above
twenty thousand men. And besides these, many Grecians and Mes-
sanians were sent for out of Italy, and all with great cheerfulness
came readily to hiui.
As soon as Dion came to the borders of the Syracusan territories,
a multitude of unarmed men, both out of the city and country, met
hm: for Dionysius, out of fear and jealousy of the Syracusans, had
disarmed many
а
a
Chap. III.
87
DIODORUS SICULUS.
He was by chance at that time at the cities he had lately built in
Adria*, with a great army. In the mean time, the officers that were
left to guard the city endeavoured, in the first place, to retain the
citizens in their duty, and to prevent their defection; but when they
saw they could not by all the means they could use bridle the im-
petuous rage of the people, they got together all the foreign soldiers,
and all others within the city that favoured the tyrant's party, and,
having completed their regiments, resolved to fall upon the rebels.
Then Dion distributed the five thousand arms among the Syracusans
that were unarmed, and the rest he furnished as well as he could, as
arms came to his hands. He then called them all together, to a pub-
lic assembly, and told them, that he was come to restore the Sicilians
to their liberty; and to that end commanded that such officers should
be created as were fittest to be made use of for that purpose, and for
the utter ruin of the tyranny: upon which they all cried out, with
one unanimous voice_That Dion and his brother Megacles should
be chosen generals, and invested with absolute power and command.
And so, without delay, from the assembly (having first disposed the
army in order of battle) he marched strait to the city; and, none ap-
pearing in the open field to oppose him, he confidently entered within
the walls, and, through the Acradinat, marched on into the forum, and
there encamped, none daring to oppose him: for there were no fewer
with Dion, in his army, than fifty thousand men. And all these,
with coronets upon their heads, entered into the city, led by Dion,
Megacles, and thirty Syracusans, who alone, of all the exiles in Pelo-
ponnesus, were willing to run the same common fate with their
fellow-citizens.
At this time the whole city exchanged slavery for liberty, and for-
tune turned sorrow, the companion of tyranny, pompous
mirth
and jollity: and every house was full of sacrifices and rejoicing; and
men burnt incense, every one upon his own altar, thanking the gods
for what at present they enjoyed, and putting up prayers for a happy
issue of affairs for the time to come. Then were heard many shouts
of joy by the women all over the city, for their sudden and unexpected
happiness, and the people rejoicing through all corners of the town.
There was then neither freeman or servant, nor any stranger, but all
were earnest to see Dion, who, for his valour and courage, was cricd
up by all above what was fitting for a man. And it was not alto-
gether without some reason, the change being so great, and so un-
expected: for, having lived fifty years as slaves, through so long
a time they had almost forgotten what liberty meant; and now, by
* The coasts of the Adriatic sea.
† One of the four parts of Syracusc; the others are the Island, Tyche, and Neapolis.
into
88
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
the valour of one man, they were on a sudden delivered from their
calamity.
About this time Dionysius staid at Caulonia in Italy; but sent to
Philistus, his admiral, who was then with the fleet about the Adriatic
coasts, and commanded him to sail away strait for Syracuse: and,
both of them speeding away to the same place, Dionysius came to
Syracuse the seventh day after the return of Dion. And now, think-
ing to put a trick upon the Syracusans, he sent ambassadors to
treat of peace, by whom he made use of many devices, to per-
suade them, that he would restore the democracy, if he might but
have some remarkable honours conferred upon him by the govern-
ment. He desired, therefore, that ambassadors might be sent. to him,
with whom, calling a senate, he might put an end to the war.
The Syracusans, having their expectations raised to so high a
pitch, sent some of the chief of their citizens to him as ambassadors,
who had guards presently put upon them, and Dionysius one day
after another put off their audience. In the mean time, perceiving
that the Syracusans, in hopes of peace, neglected their guards, and
were unprepared for an encounter, he opened the gates of the Acro-
polis*, in the Island, and suddenly sallied out with a strong and well-
appointed party.
The Syracusans had there drawn a wall from sea to sea, which the
Dionysians fiercely assaulted, with a great shout; and, having en-
tered it, with the slaughter of many of the guard, they engaged with
the rest that came in to defend it. Dion, therefore, being thus de-
luded, (against the articles of the truce), comes down with a strong
party to oppose the enemy, engages them, and makes a great slaugl
ter within a small compass of ground: for, although the fight was
but a small distance from the walls within the town, yet a vast num-
ber of men were got together within this little spot; so that the
stoutest men on both sides were hotly engaged. The large promises
urged on the Dionysians on one side, and hopes of liberty stirred
up the Syracusans with a resolution for victory on the other: the
obstinacy, therefore, on both sides being equal, the fight was a long
time doubtful; many fell, and as many were wounded, receiving all
their wounds upon their breasts: for those that first led on coura-
geously, died to preserve those that followed; those that were next,
covered the heads of those that were tired out with their shields, and
valiantly underwent all manner of dangers, and endured the utmost
that could befal them, out of their heat and zcal to come off' con-
querors. But Dion, resolving to do something remarkable in this
a
* A eas:le in a place called the port of Syracuse
Chap. III.
89
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
engagement, and that by his own valour he might gain the day, broke
violently into the thickest of his enemies; and, laying about him
hero-like, hewed down multitudes, and wholly broke in pieces the
body of the mercenaries, and was left alone standing in the midst
of the enemy's troops; and, though he was aimed at by abundance of
darts, received upon his buckler and helmet, yet, by the strength and
goodness of his arms, he avoided the danger; but, receiving a wound
upon his right arm, (through the greatness and extremity of the
pain), he began to faint, and was not far from falling into the hands
of the enemy, but that the Syracusans (highly cencerned for the
preservation of their general) charged in a full body upon the Diony-
sians, and, rescuing Dion, (now almost spent), put the enemy to
flight. And, the citizens prevailing at another part of the wall,
the foreign forces of the tyrant were forced to fly into the castle in
the Island.
The Syracusans now, having gained a glorious victory, and con-
firmed their liberty by conquest, set up a trophy in defiance of the
tyrant, who, being thus beaten, and now perceiving that all was lost,
and an end put to his sovereignty, fortified the castle with a strong
garrison; then, being permitted to carry off the dead bodies of those
that were slain, to the number of eight hundred, he buried them
honourably, crowning them with crowns of gold, and richly clothing
them in purple robes. By this extraordinary honour and respect
shewn to the dead, he hoped to draw in others more readily and
cheerfully to venture their lives for the support of his principality.
Then he bountifully rewarded them that had valiantly behaved them-
selves in the late engagement; and sent some to the Syracusans, to
treat upon terms of peace. But Dion studied excuses to delay the
business, and in the mean time finished the rest of the wall without
any interruption.
Having thus deceived the enemy with an expectation of peace, as
they had done him before, he admitted the ambassadors to audience:
upon which, they making proposals for peace, Dion answered.
That
there was only one way left for the obtaining of a peace, and that was,
for Dionysius to lay down his government, and be contented only with
some honours to be conferred upon him. Which answer the tyrant
taking in disdain, as haughty and peremptory, he called a council
of war, to consult with his officers how he might be revenged of the
Byracusans.
He abounded with all things except corn, and was likewise master
at sea: he therefore infested the country with depredations, and, by
foraging, for some time got provisions, but with great difficulty. At
Vol. 2. No. 41,
N
90
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
length he sent forth transport-ships and money to buy corn and other
provisions : but the Syracusans, though they had but few gallies, yet,
at fit times and places, they surprised the merchants, and a great part
of the corn that they imported. And thus stood the affairs of Syracuse
at this time.
But in Greece, Alexander, the tyrant of Pheræ, was murdered by his
wife, a Theban, and his two brothers, Lycophron and Tisiphonus.
They were at first in great repute for having killed the tyrant; but
afterwards, growing ambitious, and having hired many foreign sol-
diers, they set up themselves, and put to death many that were averse
to their designs; and, having got together a strong party, they kept
the sovereignty by force of arms.
But the Aleuadæ, (as they are called), persons famous for the no-
bleness of their birth, conspired to oppose the tyrants; but, not being
able to perfect so great an undertaking of themselves, they procured
the assistance of Philip, king of Macedon, who marched into Thes-
saly, subdued the tyrants, and restored the cities to their liberty, and
carried himself with the greatest demonstrations of kindness imagin-
able towards the Thessalians; so that ever after, in all his wars, not
only be, but his son Alexander, had them to be their constant friends
and confederates.
Among the writers, Demophilus, the son of Ephorus the historian,
(who continued the history of the Sacred War, left imperfect by his
father), began at the time when the temple of Delphos was seized
and robbed by Philomelus the Phocian.
That war continued eleven years, till such time as the sacrilegious
robbers of that temple were miserably destroyed.
Callisthenes likewise comprehended in ter books the affairs of the
Grecians, bringing down his history, in a continued thread, to the
spoiling of the temple by the wickedness of Philomelus: and Dyillus
the Athenian begins his history from this sacrilege, and gives an ac-
count of the affairs of Greece and Sicily in those times, in seven-
teen books.
Chap. IV.
91
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. IV.
The
first rise of the Brutio in Italy. Dionysius's admiral invades
the Leontines. A fight at sea between Heraclides and Philistus,
admirals, the one of Dionysius, the other of Dion. A faction in
Syracuse. Dion leaves the Syracusans. Their sad condition.
Retieved by Dion.
WHEN Elpinus bore the chief magistracy of Athens, and Marcus
Popilius Lænas, and Cneius Manlius Imperiosus, were invested
with the consular dignity at Rome, the hundred and sixth Olym-
piad was celebrated, in which Porus, of Malin, was crowned with
victory.
In Italy, a promiscuous multitude got together about Lucania from
several parts of the country, most of them servants that had run away
from their masters. At first they employed themselves in robbing
and stealing, and presently, by a common practice of skulking in the
fields, and making incursions, they learnt the use and exercise of
martial discipline and feats of war; and, prevailing in several en-
counters against the inhabitants, they increased to a vast body and
number of men.
In the first place they took and plundered the city of Trojana;
then, seizing upon Arpinum and Thurium, and many.other cities, they
formed themselves into a commonwealth; and, because they had
many of them been servants, they assumed the name of Brutii*. And
thus the nation of the Brutii grew up in Italy.
At this time in Sicily, Philistus, Dionysius's general, sailed to
Rhegium, and transported above five hundred horse to Syracuse:
and, joining to these a greater body of horse, and two thousand foot,
be invaded the Leontines, who had fallen off from Dionysius. Sur-
prising, therefore, the walls secretly in the night, he possessed himself
of part of the city; upon which there was a hot engagement, and, by
the help of the Syracusans, who came to the aid of the Leontines,
Philistus, overpowered with numbers, was forced out again.
In the mean time Heraclides, Dion's admiral, being left in Pelo-
ponnesus, and hindered by storms and contrary winds, (so that he
could not arrive at Sicily time enough to be assistant to Dion in his
return into his country, and to be helpful in rescuing the Syracusans
* Rather Brettians; for they were called Brutii by the Romans, as a brutish people.
92
Book XVI,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
from slavery), arrived at length, with twenty sail of gallies, and fif-
teen hundred soldiers; who, being a man of noble birth and of great
esteem, and judged worthy of so great a trust, he was declared admiral
by the Syracusans, and he and Dion, joining head and hand together,
managed the war against Dionysius.
About the same time Philistus, being made lord-high-admiral by
Dionysius, and having a fleet of sixty sail, well provided, entered the
lists in a sea-fight with the Syracusans, who had a navy not fewer in
number than the Dionysians. Whereupon there was a sharp fight,
in which the valour of Philistus at the first prevailed; but at length,
being surrounded by the enemy, the Syracusans from all parts making
it their great business to take him alive, he, to avoid the disgrace and
misery usually attendant on a state of captivity, killed himself, after
he had served the tyrant to the utmost of his power, and had signa-
lized his faithfulness above all the rest, and chiefest of his friends.
The Syracusans, being victors, drew the mangled body of Philistus
through the whole city, and at length cast it out in the open air,
without burial.
Dionysius, having now lost the most valiant of all his friends, and
knowing not where to find another fit for the place, sent ambassadors
to Dion, with an offer at first of half the kingdom, and presently after
consented to give up the whole. But, when Dion answered _That
it was but just he should surrender the castle to the Syracusans, upon
having only some money, and some marks of honour conferred up-
on him, the tyrant hereupon said.—He was ready to deliver up the
castle to the people, upon condition that he and the mercenaries,
with all the treasure they had got, might pass over to Italy. Dion's
advice was, that the terms should be accepted: but the people, being
wrought over to a contrary opinion by the importunate orators, op-
posed Dion, for that they doubted not but to take the castle by storm,
Dionysius hereupon committed the custody of the castle to the
stoutest of the mercenaries; but he himself, having brought aboard
all his treasures and household goods, without being discovered, set
sail, and landed in Italy,
In the mean time the Syracusans were divided into factions, while
some were for Heraclides to have the chief command of the army,
and likewise the sovereign power, because he was judged a person
that was not ambitious of the tyranny; but others were for intrusting
the chief power and authority in the hands of Dion. Moreover, there
were great arrears due to the soldiers that came out of Peloponnesus
to the aşsistance of the Syracusans. The city, therefore, being very
low in money, and the soldiers defrauded of their pay, they gathered
themselves into a body, being three thousand valiant men, all old
Chap. IV.
93
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and expert soldiers, far excelling the Syracusans in courage: these
exhorted Dion to go along with them, and leave the Syracusans, that
they might be revenged of them in due time as a common enemy;
which he at first refused; but the exigency of affairs requiring it, he
at length took upon him the command of the foreigners, and joining
himself to them, marched to the Leontines: but the Syracusans get-
ting into a body, pursued the mercenaries, and engaged them in their
march, but were forced to retire, with the loss of a great number of
their fellow citizens.
But Dion, though he had obtained a great victory, yet he was
willing to forget the injuries offered bim by the Syracusans. For
when they sent a trumpet to him to have liberty to carry off the
bodies of the dead, he not only agreed to that, but freely discharged
many prisoners without ransom. For many,
For many, when they were on the
point of being knocked on the head in the pursuit, declared they
were favourers of Dion's party; and by that means escaped present
death.
Afterwards Dionysius sent Nypsius, a citizen of Naples, a valiant
and expert soldier, as his general, and with him transport-ships
laden with corn and other provisions, who, departing from Locris,
made strait for Syracuse.
In the mean time, the garrison-soldiers of the tyrant, in the castle,
though they were then driven to the utmost extremity for want of
bread, yet endured famine for some time with great resolution. But
at length nature yielding to necessity, and having no prospect of
relief any other way, they called a council of war in the night, and
resolved to surrender the castle and themselves to the Syracusans the
next day. Night therefore being now ended, the mercenaries sent
trumpets to treat for peace, which was no sooner done, but presently
Nypsius, at spring of day, arrives with the fleet, and anchored in the
port of Arethusa*. Whereupon their present necessities were sud-
denly changed into large and plentiful supplies of all sorts of provi-
sions. Then the general, having landed his men, called a council of
war, and in an oration suitable for the occasion, so spoke to them,
that he wrought them to a resolution cheerfully to undergo all future
hardships to the utmost extremity. And thus the Acropolis, ready
to be delivered into the hands of the Syracusans, was unexpectedly
preserved. Hereupon the Syracusans with all speed manned as
many gallies as they had at hand, and suddenly attacked the enemy,
while they were discharging their vessels of their corn and provisions :
and although this incursion was sudden and unexpected, and that

• A fountain called Arethusa, near Syracuse
94
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
garrison in the castle opposed the enemy's galleys in a tumultuous
and disorderly manner, yet it came to a formal sea fight, in which the
Syracusans got the victory, and sunk some of the enemy's ships,
took others, and forced the rest to the shore. Being encouraged with
this success, they offered to the gods abundance of sacrifices for the
victory: but giving themselves in the mean time to quaffing and
drinking, and likewise slighting them in the castle as a beaten enemy,
they were careless in their guards: so that Nypsius, desirous to re-
pair his late loss by a new engagement, orders a select body of his
men in the night, and suddenly assaults the wall lately built; and
finding the guard, through overmuch confidence, and their surfeiting
and drunkenness, fallen fast asleep, set scaling ladders (made for the
purpose) to the walls; by which means some of the stoutest fellows
of the garrison mounted the wall, killed the centinels, and opened
the gates. This sudden assault being made upon the city, the Syra-
cusan con manders, not yet recovered of their drunken fit, endea-
voured to help their fellows as well as they could. But through their
wine not knowing how to use their hands, some were knocked on the
head, and others took to their heels. And now the city being taken,
and almost all the soldiers issued out of the castle, and entered
within the walls, and the citizens, by reason of this sudden and un-
expected surprise, and the confusion that was amongst them, being
even at their wits end, all places were filled with slaughter and
destruction: for the tyrant's soldiers being above ten thousand
men, and in good order and discipline, none were able to withstand
them, but through fear and confusion, and the disorder of an
ungovernable multitude, through want of officers, all went to wreck.
When they came into the forum, being now conquerors, they pre-
seutly rushed into the houses, and ransacked and plundered to a vast
mount, and made captive a great multitude of women, children, and
servants. In the strait and narrow passages, and some other places,
the Syracusans made resistance, and never ceased fighting; multi-
tudes being killed, and as many wounded. And even all the night
long they killed one another as they happened to meet in the dark;
so that every part of the city was covered and strewed with dead
carcases.
As soon as it was day, the light discovered the greatness of the
calamity and misery. The citizens having now no means left to be
delivered, but by the aid and assistance of Dion, sent forth some
horsemen with all speed to the city of the Leontines, earnestly to
entreat him that he would not suffer the country to be a prey to the
enemy, but that he would pardon their former miscarriages, and
commiserate them in their present distress, and relieve and raise
Chap. IV.
95
DIODORUS SICULUS.
up their country from that low and despicable condition in which
they then were
Dion, who was a man of a brave spirit, and had a soul well prin-
cipled with the rudiments of philosophy, and so was mild, and easy
to be persuaded, remembered not the former injuries of the citizens,
but bired his soldiers to march away to the expedition, and with these
he made a swift march to Syracuse, and came to the Hexapylum*.
There he drew up his army, and marched forward with all speed;
and there met him above ten thousand women and children, and old
people, who fled out of the city, who all prostrated themselves at his
feet, and beseeched him with tears that he would rescue them from
their wretched and miserable condition. The soldiers of the castle
having now accomplished what they aimed at, after they had plun-
dered all the houses about the forum, set them on fire, and then
breaking into the rest, made a prey of all they found in them, at
which very nick of time, in the very height of their rapines, Dion
forcing into the city in many places at once, sets upon the enemy,
now eager in plundering, and killed all he met as they were carrying
away all sorts of household goods bundled upon their shoulders.
For coming upon them on a sudden, as they were scattered here
and there, bringing away their prey, they were all easily knocked on
the head. After four thousand and upwards were slain, some in the
houses, and others in the streets and highways, the rest filed into
the castle, and shut the gates upon them, and so escaped.
Dion, when he had performed this exploit, (the most glorious of
any ever before done), quenched the fire, and so preserved the houses
that were all in flames, and firmly repaired the wall that fronted
the castle; and thus by one and the same piece of work, he botła
defended the city, and straitened the garrison within the Acropolis.
Then he cleansed the town of the dead bodies, erected a trophy, and
saerificed to the gods for the deliverance of his country.
On the other hand, the people, to testify their gratitude to Dion,
called a general assembly, and by an unanimous vote made bim chief
governor, with full and absolute power, and conferred upon him the
honours due to a demigod.
Afterwards, agreeable to the glory of his other actions, he freely
pardoned all that had maliciously injured him, and, by his frequent
admonitions, brought the people to mutual peace and concord:
for all the citizens of all ranks and degrees highly honoured and
applauded him, as their great benefactor, and as the only saviour
of their country.
* The six gates so called.
a
96
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. V.
The continuance of the Social War. Iphicrates and Timotheus
joined admirals with Chares, by the Athenians. Iphicrates and
Timotheus accused by Chares, and fined and removed, Chares
joins with Pharnabazus, and routs the Persians. The end of
the Social War. Philip subdues the confederates.
IN Greece the Social War growing on apace, wherein the Chians,
Rhodians, Coians, and Byzantines, joined together against the Athe-
nians, great preparations were made on both sides to decide the
quarrel by a sea fight. The Athenians, though they had rigged out
a fleet of sixty sail, under the command of Chares, yet they sent forth
others, for the further strengthening of them that were employed
before, under the command of two of the most eminent of their citi-
zens, Iphicrates and Timotheus, who were invested in equal power of
command with Chares, to carry on the war against their rebellious
confederates.
On the other side, the Chians, Rhodians, and Byzantines, being
furnished with an hundred sail from their confederates, waste and
spoil the islands Imbros and Lemnos, belonging to the Athenians:
thence they made for Samos with a great army, and harassed the
country, and besieged the city both by sea and land. Many other
islands, likewise, under the government of the Athenians, they wasted
and spoiled, and by that means amassed a treasure for carrying on
the war.
The Athenian generals, therefore, joining their forces, resolved in
the first place to besiege Byzantium: but the Chians and their con-
federates raising their siege at Samos, and preparing to relieve
Byzantium, the fleets on both sides met in the Hellespont. And
now, just as they were ready to engage, there arose suddenly a violent
tempest, which prevented their design. However, Chares was re-
solved to fight, though Nature herself, with the wind and seas, con-
,
spired against him; but Iphicrates and Timotheus, by reason of the
storm, refused. Chares (attesting the faithfulness of the soldiers)
accused his colleagues of treason, and wrote letters to the people of
Athens, whereby he informed them that they declined fighting pure
posely out of design; at which the people were so incensed, that they
condemned them both; and having fined them in many talents, re-
voked the commissions,
Chap. V.
97
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Chares now having the sole command of the fleet, designing to
free the Athenians from charge and expense, committed a very rash
act. Pharnabazus had revolted from the king, and was now ready to
engage, with a very small force, the Persian lord-lieutenants, who
had in their army seventy thousand men : Chares joins this man with
all his forces, so that they totally routed the king's troops : and
Pharnabazus, in gratitude for the service, gave him as much money
as was sufficient to pay all his soldiers. This act of Chares was at
first very grateful and acceptable to the Athenians; but when the
king, by his ambassadors, complained of the injury done him by
Chares, they altogether changed their notes, and were as far the other
way: for a rumour was spread abroad, that the king had promised
three hundred sail for the aid and assistance of the enemies of the A-
thenians: upon which the people were so terrified, that they decreed
to adjust matters with the revolters; and finding them as willing to
embrace terms of peace as themselves, the business was easily com-
posed. And this was the end of the Social War, after it had continued
four years.
In the mean time, in Macedonia, three kings, that is to say, of
Thrace, the Pæones, and the Illyrians, confederated against Philip.
These princes, being borderers upon the Macedonians, could not
brook, without envy, his growing power: and though they had
formerly experienced that they were not his equal match singly,
(being not long before conquered by him), yet by joining their
forces together, they confidently concluded that they should be
able to deal with him. But Philip coming suddenly upon them,
while they were raising their forces, and as yet without any formed
troops being in readiness, in this surprise he broke them in pieces,
and obliged them to yield to the yoke of the Macedonian kingdom.
VOL. 2. No. 41.
98
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. VI.
The beginning of the Sacred or Phocian war. Philomelus seizes
the temple at Delphos, after he had routed the Locrians. How
the oracle at Delphos was first discovered; and the beginning
of the Tripod. The Athenians and others join with Philo-
melus.
AFTER Callistratus was created archon at Athens, and Marcus
Fabius and Caius Plotius consuls of Rome, the war called the Sacred
War broke forth, which continued nine years: for Philomelus the
Phocian, (inferior to none in impudence and wickedness), having
seized the temple at Delphos, occasioned the Sacred War, on the ac-
count following:
After the Lacedæmonians were routed by the Thebans at the
battle of Leuctra, the Thebans made great complaints against them
in the court of the Amphictyons, for their seizing of Cadmea :
upon which they were adjudged to pay to them a great sum of
money. The Phocians, likewise, were accused and condemned by
the same court, to pay many talents to the use of the oracle at
Delphos, because they had intruded into a large piece of land,
called Cirrha, which belonged to the oracle, and had tilled and
ploughed it.
But the mulct being neglected to be paid, the Hieromemones
accused the Phocians in the senate of the Amphictyons, and prayed
them, if the money were not paid, that the lands of the sacrilegious
persons might be confiscated, and devoted to the deity. They re-
required, likewise, that the others who were condemned (among
whom were the Lacedæmonians) should pay what was due upon that
account; and prayed, that unless they observed what was so ordered,
that they should be prosecuted as hateful enemies by all the Grecians.
This decree of the Amphictyons being ratified and approved of by all
the Greeks, the country of the Phocians was upon the point of being
devoted to those sacred uses. Philomelus, who was in the greatest
esteem at that time amongst them, told the people _That the fine
was so excessive, that it could not possibly be paid; and to suffer
their country to be sacrificed, it would not only argue them to be
cowardly and poor-spirited, but be dangerous to that degree, that it
would tend to the utter ruin of them and their families: and he did
* The priests and officers of the temple.
Chap. VI.
99
DIODORUS SICULUS.
all lre could to make it out, that the decree of the Amphictyons was
most unjust, and highly injurious, inasmuch as for a little and incon-
siderable spot of land, they had imposed a mulct far exceeding the
proportion and merit of the offence; and therefore advised them to
rescind the decree; and that there were reasons sufficient to justify
their so doing: and among others he alledged, that heretofore the
oracle was under their power and protection: and cited the verses of
Homer, the most antient and famous of all the poets, as a witness
of the truth of what he said, who speaks to this effect:
Epistrophus and Schedius did command
(Iphitus' valiant sons) the Phocian band,
Who Cyparis and Pitho tilld. Ogilb.
Therefore the contest is to be for the custody and patronage of the
temple, which he said belonged to the ancestors of the Phocians; and
that if they would commit to him the absolute power, as chief com-
mander in this affair, he promised to manage it with the utmost care
and dexterity.
Upon which, the Phocians (out of fear of the mulct imposed upon
them) created Philomelus sole and absolute general. Hereupon
Philomelus diligently pursued the performance of his promise; and
to that end presently made a journey to Sparta, and had private
conference concerning the business with Archidamus, king of the
Lacedæmonians, alledging, that it was as much the interest and
concern of Archidamus, as his, to have the decrees of the Amphic,
tyons rescinded; for that the Amphictyons had likewise unjustly
injured the Lacedæmonians by giving judgment against them. He
thereupon discovered to him his design of seizing upon the temple
at Delphos; and that if he prevailed in bringing the oracle under his
care and patronage, he would annul all the decrees of the Ampbic-
tyons. Archidamus approved well of what he said; but for the
present would not appear opeply to be aiding in the matter, but
assured him that he would join in all things privately, in supplying
him with money, and mercenary soldiers. Philomelus then having
received from him fifteen talents, and adding as many more of his
own, raised soldiers from all parts: a thousand he listed from among
the Phocians, whom he called Peltastates*, And after he had col-
lected a considerable force, he attacked the temple: some of the
Delphians, called Thracidæ, opposed him; but those he slew, and
gave up all they had as plunder to the soldiers. He commanded the
ſest (whom he perceived to be in no small fright) to be of good
çourage, for they should suffer no prejudice,
Those who carried short shields,
100
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
And now the report of the seizing the temple was spread far and
near; upon which the Locrians, who were next burderers, marched
against Philomelus with a considerable army, and fought him near
Delphos, but were routed; and, after a great slaughter made amongst
them, fled back to their own country.
Philomelus, puffed up with this victory, cut the decrees of the
Amphictyons out of the pillars, and destroyed all the records con-
cerning them that were condemned. In the mean time, he caused
reports to be spread abroad in every place, that he neither designed to
rob the temple, nor commit any other mischief, but only to recover
an antient right descended to thein from their ancestors; and to that
end had a desire to make void the unjust decrees of the Amphictyons,
and so to defend the antient laws of the Phocians. But the Baotians,
assembled in council, made a decree to relieve the temple, and forth-
with raised an army,
Philomelus in the mean time drew a wall round the temple, and
raised many soldiers, and added to their pay half as much more as
their due amounted unto; and, making choice of the best soldiers
among the Phocians, he enrolled them, and, in a short time, got to-
gether so great an army, as amounted to no less than five thousand
men: so that, possessing himself of all the passages to Delphos, he
became formidable to his enemies. Then, marching into the terri-
tories of the Locrians, he wasted a great part of the country, and at
length encamped near a river that ran close by a very strong fort,
which he besieged; but, after some assaults, not being able to take
it, he raised the siege, and engaged with the Locrians, in which he
lost twenty of his men, whose bodies not being able to recover by
force, he sent a trumpeter to have them delivered.
The Locrians denied the bodies, and made answer_That there was
a general law among all the Grecians, that sacrilegious persons should
be cast forthi, and not allowed any burial. Highly provoked at this
repulse, le fought again with the Locrians, and, with great valour
and resolution, slaughtered some of his enemies, and possessed him,
self of their bodies; and so forced the Locrians, in exchange, to de
liver the dead.
And now, being master of the field, he ranged up and down, and
wasted the country of Locris; and, loading his soldiers with plunder,
returned to Delphos.
Afterwards, desiring to know from the oracle what would be the
issue of the war, he forced Pythia the prophetess to ascend the tri-
pod, and give him an answer. Since mention is here made of the
tripod, I conceive it not unseasonable to give an account of what has
been handed down to us concerning it from antient times. It is re-
a
Chap. VI.
101
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
ported, that this oracle was first discovered by some goats; for which
reason such creatures are most commonly sacrificed by the Delphians,
when they come to consult the oracle. The discovery is related in
this manner_There was an opening or gulph in the earth in that
place, now called “ Adytum of the Temple;" about this the goats
straggled as they were feeding: for at that time they of Delphos had
no religious regard to the place. It often happened that when any
goat came near to the gulph, and looked down, it would fall a-leaping
and dancing in a wonderful manner, and make an unusual noise, far
different from that at other times. A shepherd wondering at the no-
velty of the ihing, drew towards the place to learn what might be the
cause; and looking down, he acted the same part with the goats:
for as they were moved and acted upon as by some enthusiasm, so
he likewise was inspired with a spirit of prophecy. The news pre-
sently spreading abroad among the inhabitants, how wonderfully they
were affected that looked down into the chasm, many flocked to the
place, and out of curiosity made experiments; and as many as came
near, were always acted upon with a spirit of divination. For these
Teasons, the place was accounted the residence of some oracle: for
some time, therefore, it was a practice, that those who had a desire
to know future events, would approach to this den, and there return
answers of things that were to come one to another. But whereas
many, through an excess and transport of mind, would leap into the
gulph, and so were never more seen, it was judged advisable by
the inhabitants, to avoid the like danger for the future, that some
one woman should be consecrated prophetess, and that by her the
answer of tlie oracle should be delivered; and that an engine should
be made for her, whereon she might sit; and by that means be in-
spired without any danger, and give answers to them who consulted
her concerning future events.
This machine had three feet, from whence it was called the Tri-
pod, whose figure and shape almost all the tripods of brass made to
this day are formed to imitate. But sufficient, we conceive, is said
concerning the manner of discovering the seat of the oracle, and for
what reasons the tripod was made.
It is reported, that at the first, virgins were assigned to this office,
because, in their nature, they are more pure and harmless, and of
the same sex with Diana; and besides, as they were judged fittest to
keep the secrets of the oracle. But it is said, that of latter times one
Thessalus Echecrates, coming to the oracle, upon sight of the virgin
prophetess, for her admirable beauty, fell in love with her, and ra-
vished her; which wicked act caused the Delphians to make a law-
That no young virgin for the future, but a grave woman of fifty years
a
102
Book XII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of age (in a virgin's dress, to keep up the memory of the antient
mode in divination) shouid preside, and return the answers. These
are the old fabulous stories that are told concerning the first discovery
of the oracle.
But to return to the acts of Philomelus; who, being now lord of
the temple, commanded Pythia to answer him from the tripod, ac-
cording to the antient rite and custom of the country. When the
prophetess answered him, saying This is the custom of the coun-
try; he commanded her, with threats, to ascend the tripod: where-
upon she, submitting by force to the authority of the imposer, an-
swered him _That it was lawful for him to do what he pleased. At
which he was very jocund, and said he had received an answer fit for
his purpose; and thereupon presently caused the answer to be re-
corded, and exposed to be read; that so it might be evident to all,
that the god had given him liberty to do what he pleased. Then he
called a general assembly, and rehearsed to them the divine oracle,
and desired them all to be faithful and courageous; and then betook
himself again to the business of the war. Moreover, a prodigy ap-
peared to him in the temple of Apollo: for an eagle hovering over it,
and at length casting itself down to the ground, pursued the pigeons
(that were fed and kept in the temple) from place to place, so that
she snatched away some even from the altars themselves. Those
that were versed in interpreting things of this nature declared, that
this portended that Philomelus and the Phocians should possess
themselves of all the treasures of the temple. Being greatly puffed
up with this encouragement, he singles out the choicest of his friends
to send as messengers abroad, some to Athens, others to Lacedæmon,
and others to Thebes, and other most remarkable cities of Greece,
with this apology_That he had seized upon Delphos, not with a
design to commit any sacrilege, but to regain the patronage of the
temple for his country; and declared, that he was ready to give an
exact account to all the Greeks of the money, and all the dedicated
gifts there, both as to weight and number, whoever should require
the same. And lastly be desired, that if any, out of envy or malice,
should make war upon the Phocians, that they would rather join with
him against such, or at least stand neuters. The ambassadors ac-
quitting themselves with all diligence in this matter, the Athenians,
Lacedæmonians, and some others, entered into the confederacy, and
promised them assistance; but the Baotians, with the Locrians, and
some others, were of a contrary mind, who took up arms in defence
of the oracle, against the Phocians. These were the things done in
the course of this year.
Chap. VII.
103
DIODORUS SICULUS.
1
CHAP. VII.
The battle at Phædra, between Philomelus and the Locrians. The
parties engaged in the Phocian war. The battle between the
Baotians and Phocians. Philomelus killed. Onomarchus made
general: his dreams, successes, and death.
NOW Diotimus executed the office of archon at Atliens; and Cneius
Manlius, and Caius Martius, of consuls at Rome; when Philomelus,
having a prospect of the storm of war that was rushing in upon him,
hired a great number of soldiers, with whom he joined the most ex-
pert and choicest of the Phocians. But, though he was in want of
money, yet he still forbore to meddle with the sacred treasures, but
got sufficient to pay the mercenaries out of the estates of the greatest
men among the Delphians. When he had raised a considerable
army, he marched into the field, that all might take notice that he
was ready to fight with any enemy that appeared against the Plio-
cians. Upon this the Locrians made out against him, and fought
with him at a place called the Rocks of Phædra, whom he routed,
and killed multitudes of them, and took many prisoners, and forced
some of them to cast themselves down headlong from the top of
the rock.
After this battle, the Phocians grew very high-crested upon the
account of their prosperous success. The misfortune, on the other
hand, greatly discouraged the Locrians; they sent, therefore, an am-
bassador to Thebes, to desire them to afford their assistance both to
them and the oracle. The Baotians, both out of their piety towards
the gods, and for confirmation of the decrees of the Amphictyons,
wherein they were greatly concerned), solicited by their ambassadors
the Thessalians, and others of the Amphictyons, to join with them in
the war against the Phocians. Upon which (after that the Amphic-
tyons had decreed war to be made upon the Phocians) there arose
great uproars and factions throughout all Greece. Some were for
assisting the oracle, and prosecuting the Phocians with revenge, as
guilty of sacrilege; others were for defending them. And, while both
the cities and countries were thus distracted in their councils, the Bæo.
tians, Locrians, Thessalians, Perrhæbeans, the Dorians, Delopians,
Athamanes, Achaians, Phthiots, Magnesians, Æneians, and some
others, resolved to assist the god. The Athenians and Lacedæmo-
,
nians, and some others of the Peloponnesians, joined as confederates
104
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
with the Phocians. The Lacedæmonians, with some others, readily
joined, for these reasons, viz. When the Thebans had overcome
them in the battle at Leuctra, they prosecuted the Spartans in the
high court of the Amphictyons, because Phæbidas the Spartan had
seized upon Cadmea, and demanded five hundred talents in com-
pensation of the injury; but the Lacedæmonians, being fined so
much, and not paying the mulct imposed in the time limited by
the law, the Thebans exhibited a new complaint against them for the
double injury.
The Lacedæmonians therefore, being condemed by the Amphic.
tyons in a thousand talents, and being much indebted and behind-
hand, made use of the same pretence the Phocians did before (that
is) _That the Amphictyons had pronounced an unjust sentence
against them. And therefore (though it was for the public good) yet
they forbore to undertake the war of themselves, upon the quarrel of
the condemnation; but judged that it might carry a better face, if they
could avoid the decree of the Amphictyons, under the covert of the
Phocians. For these reasons they were very forward to patronise
their cause; and in the mean time contrived to gain the tutelary
right of the temple to themselves.
And now upon certain information that the Thebans had prepared
a very great army against the Phocians, Philomelus resolved to
strengthen his forces with more mercenaries: but in regard more
money was requisite for carrying on of the war, he was necessitated
to make use of the sacred treasures, and therefore rifled the temple,
And because he promised half as much more as their ordinary pay to
the mercenaries, a vast number of men flocked in to him, and for the
sake of the largeness of the pay, multitudes listed themselves: but
no moderate and sober man gave up his name to be enrolled in the
lists of the army, out of a pious and religious respect to the oracle.
In the mean time every base fellow, that for the sake of gain, valued
not the gods in the least, but flocked eagerly to Philomelus: and so
in a short time he got together a strong body of men, who were im-
patient to share in the sacred treasures of the temple. And thus
abundance of wealth was the means whereby Philomelus presently
formed a complete army, and without delay marched into the coun-
try of Locris with above ten thousand horse and foot. The Locrians
being joined with the Baotians, met him; whereupon there hap-
pened a fight with the horse on both sides, in which the Phocians
were conquerors.
Not long after, the Thessalians, with the assistance of them that
bordered upon them, to the number of six thousand, marched into
Locris, and engaged with the Phocians at a hill called Argola, and
Chap. VII.
105
DIODORUS SICULUS.
were worsted. Afterwards the Bootians coming to their assistance
with thirteen thousand men, and the Actreans out of Peloponnesus,
in assistance of the Phocians, with fifteen hundred, both armies near
one and the same place, encamped over against the other. It then
happened that a great number of the mercenaries, as they were fo-
raging, fell into the hands of the Bæotians; and all of them being
brought before the walls of the city, they commanded a proclamation
to be made, that those men who had joined in arms with the sacrile-
gious persons, were adjudged by the Amphictyons to be put to death,
and it was no sooner said but the thing was executed, and all were run
through with spears and darts. This so exasperated the mercenaries
of the Phocians, that they earnestly pressed Philomelus that the
enemy might be dealt with in the same manner, and would not suf-
fer him, by their restless importunities, to be quiet; and presently
they took many of the enemy, as they were dispersed in the fields,
and brought them alive to the general, who delivered them all up to
the soldiers, to be darted to death. By this retaliation, it came
to pass that the enemy left off this insulting and cruel kind of exe-
cution.
Afterwards, both the armies moving into another part of the
country, and in their march passing through woods and rough places,
on a sudden, and unexpectedly, the forlorn hopes of both met one
another, upon which they at first skirmished, but at length it came
to a fierce and bloody battle, in which the Baotians, overpowering the
Phocians in number, totally routed them, and multitudes, both of
the Phocians and mercenaries, were slain in the pursuit, by reason
of the rough and difficult passes out of the woods. Philomelus, in
these straits and exigencies, behaved himself with great courage and
resolution, and, after many wounds received, was forced to an high
precipice, and, seeing no possible means of escape, and fearing the
punishment and torments prisoners used to undergo, cast himself
down headlong from the rock; and thus (meeting with the due re-
ward of his sacrilege) he ended his days: but his colleague Onomar-
chus, taking upon him the command of the army, marched back with
those that had escaped the slaughter, and received those that fled as
they came straggling in to him.
In the mean time, while these things were doing, Philip of Ma-
cedon took Methone, pillaged it, and laid it equal with the ground;
and forced all the villages and countries to submit to the Mace-
donian yoke.
In Pontus, Leucon, king of Bosphorus, died, after he had reigned
forty years; and Spartacus, his son, succeeded him, and reigned five
years. And, in the mean time, the war began between the Ro-
VOL. 2. No, 41.
P
106
Book XVI
DIODORUS SICULUS.
mans and the Falisci, in which there was nothing done worth
taking notice of, but only harassing the country of the Falisci by
incursions.
In Sicily, Dion, the general of the army, was murdered by the
mercenaries of Zacynthus, and Callippus, who instigated them to
the act, was made chief commander in his place, and enjoyed it for the
space of thirteen months.
When Eudemus executed the office of archon at Athens, and the
Romans intrusted the consular dignity with Marcus Fabius and
Marcus Popilius, the Bæotians, after the victory gained over the
Phocians, returned with their forces into their own country, sup-
posing that Philomelus, the author and ring-leader of the sacrilege,
(being justly punished both by the gods and men), by his remarka-
ble end would deter others from the like piece of wickedness. But
the Phocians, having at present some respite from war, went again
to Delphos, and, calling together a general council of all their con-
federates, they consulted concerning the renewing of the war. Those
that were lovers of justice, were for peace; but the prophane and im-
pious, and such as minded only their gain and advantage, were for
war, and used their utmost endeavours to find out some or other that
would patronise their wicked designs.
Onomarchus therefore, in a premeditated speech, (the chief end
of which was to advise them to stick to what they had before re-
solved), stirred up the people to renew the war; not so much for the
advancement of the public good, as to promote bis own private ad-
vantage. For he had many mulcts, as well as others, imposed upon
him by the Amphictyous; which, not being able to pay, and there-
fore judging that war was more desirable than peace as to his cir-
cumstances, by a plausible speech he incited the Phocians to persist
in what Philomelus had begun. Upon which, being then created
general, he reinforced himself with many foreign soldiers, and re-
cruited his broken troops; and, having augmented his army with a
multitude of foreign mercenaries, he made great preparation to
strengthen himself with confederates, and other things necessary for
the carrying on the war. And he was the more encouraged in his
design by a dream which he had, which did presage (as he thought)
his future greatness and advancement: in his sleep it appeared to
him as if the brazen Colossus, dedicated by the Amphictyons, and
standing in the temple of Apollo, had by his own hands been made
higher, and much bigger than it was before. Hence he fancied,
that the gods portended that he was to become famous in the world
for his martial exploits. But it fell out quite otherwise, for, on the
contrary, it signified That the mulct imposed by the Amphictyona
Chap. VII.
107
DIODORUS SICULUS.
upon the Phocians, for their sacrilege and violation of the treasures
of the temple, would be much enhanced, and advanced to a still
greater sum by the hands of Onomarchus, which at length came
to pass.
Onomarchus, therefore, after he was created general, caused a
great number of arms, both of iron and brass, to be made; and coined
gold and silver money, which he dispersed among the confederate
cities; he sought particularly to gain the magistrates by these baits
and largesses.
Moreover he corrupted many of the enemy, drawing some into the
confederacy, and working upon others to remain neutral in the mean
time. And all this he easily effected, through the covetousness of
those he wrought upon. For by his bribes, he prevailed with the
Thessalians, the most considerable of the confederates on the other
side, to stand neuter. Those among the Phocians that opposed him,
he imprisoned, and put to death, and exposed their goods to public
sale. He then marched into the enemy's country, and took Thronium
by assault, and sold all the inhabitants for slaves. The Amphisse-
nians, likewise, being greatly terrified, he forced to a submission,
and possessed himself also of the cities of the Dorians, and
wasted and spoiled the country. Thence he marched into Bæotia,
and took Orchomenys; and when he was even ready to lay siege to
Chæronea, he was worsted by the Thebans, and so returned into his
own country.
About this time Artabazus, who had rebelled against the king, still
continued his war with those lord lieutenants of the provinces that
were ordered out against him. At the first, while Chares, the Athe-
dian general assisted him, he valiantly stood it out against the enemy.
But when he left him, wanting aid, he made his application to the
Thebans for relief; who thereupon sent Pammenes general, with
five thousand men, over into Asia; who, joining with Artabazus,
routed the royalists in two great figlits, and thereby advanced both
his own reputation, and the glory and honour of his country. For
it excited the admiration of all men, that the Baotians, at the very
time when they were deserted by the Thessalians, and in the most
imminent danger from the Phocian war, which then threatened
them, should transport forces into Asia, and be conquerors in all
their engagements.
In the mean time a war broke cut between the Argives and the
Lacedæmonians, who beat the others at Ornca, and took the town,
and then returned to Sparta. Chares, likewise, the Athenian ge-
neral, with his feet, entered the Hellespont, and took Sestos, the
most considerable towa upon that coast, and put all the young men
108
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that were able to bear arms, to the sword, and carried away the rest
as slaves.
About the same time, Cersobleptes, the brother of Cotys, enemy
to Philip, but in league with the Athenians, delivered up all the
cities in Chersonesus (except Cardia) to the Athenians, who sent co-
lonies thither to inhabit the towns, which were to be divided amongst
them by lot.
Philip, therefore, discerning that the Methoneans* designed to
deliver up their city (which was of great moment in the war) to his
enemy, laid close siege to it, which the citizens defended for some
time; but being too weak to cope with him, they were forced to sur-
render upon these condities_That all the citizens should depart out
of Methone with all their clothes.
Being possessed of the place, he razed the city to the ground, and
divided the territory among the Macedonians. During this siege,
Philip lost an eye by the stroke of a dart.
Afterwards being invited by the Thessalians, he marched with
his army into Thessaly. And in the first place, in aid of the Thessa-
lians, he fought with Lycophron, tyrant of Pheræ.
Lycophrou then applied to the Phocians for assistance, who there-
upon sent to him Phayllus, the brother of Onomarchus, with seven
thousand men; but Philip routed the troops of the Phocians, and
drove them out of Thessaly. Upon which Onomarchus, thinking to
be lord of all Thessaly, came to the assistance of Lycophron with his
a
whole army.
a
Philip opposed him, both with his own and the forces of the
Thessalians, but Onamarchus, overpowering him by numbers,
routed him in two several battles, and killed many of the Macedo-
nians; insomuch as Philip was brought into very great straits.
His soldiers were hereupon so dejected, that they were ready to
desert him; but with much ado, and many persuasions, he at length
brought them over to a due obedience, and within a short time after
returned into Macedonia. But Onomarchus made an expedition
into Bæotia, and fought and routed the Boeotians, and possessed
himself of Coronea.
In the mean time Philip marches again with his army out of Ma-
cedon into Thessaly, and encamps against Lycophron, the tyrant of
Pheræ, who being too weak for him, sent for aid to the Phocians,
promising to use his utmost endeavour to order and dispose of all
things throughout Thessaly for their advantage. Whereupon Ono-
marchus came to his assistance by land with above twenty thousand
foot and five hundred horse.
In Thrace.
Chap. VII.
109
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Philip having persuaded the Thessalians to join with him, raised
above twenty thousand foot and three thousand horse.
Forthwith a bloody battle was fought, in which Philip, by the ad-
vantage and valour of the Thessalian horse, got the day, and Onomar-
chus and bis men fled towards the sea.
It happened that Chares, the Athenian admiral, passed by with a
great navy, at the same instant as a cruel slaughter was made
among the Phocians, and therefore those that fled cast away their
arms, and endeavoured to swim to the galleys, amongst whom was
Onomarchus.
In conclusion there were slain of the Phocians and mercenaries
above six thousand, amongst whom was the general himself; and no
less than three thousaud were taken prisoners.
Pbilip hanged* Onomarchus; and the rest, as sacrilegious persons,
he caused to be thrown into the sea.
Onomarchus thus coming to his end, Phayllus, his brother, was
created general of the Phocians; and he, to repair the damage sus-
tained, raised great numbers of foreign mercenaries, doubling the
former and usual pay, and further strengthened himself with additions
of his confederates; he likewise made a great number of arms, and
coined both gold and silver.
About the same time Mausolus, a petty king of Caria, died, after
he had reigned four-and-twenty years. To whom succeeded Ar-.
temesia, (who was both his sister and wife), for the space of two
years.
At that time, likewise, Clearchus, tyrant of Heraclea, when he
was going to the feast of Bacchus, was assassinated, in the twelfth
year of his reign. Timotheus, his son, succeeded him, and reigned
fifteen years.
In the mean time the Tuscans, who were at war with the Romans,
harassed and wasted a great part of their enemy's territory, making
incursions as far as to the river Tiber, and then returned to their own
country,
The friends of Dion raised a sedition at Syracuse against Callippus,
but being dispersed and worsted, they fled to the Leontines. Not long
after, Hipparinus, the brother of Dionysius, arrived with a navy at
Syracuse, and fought and beat Callippus; upon which he was driven
out of the city, and Hipparinus recovered his father's kingdom, and
enjoyed it for two years.
+ Crucified.
110
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. VIII.
Phayllus continues the Phocian war. Aryca razed. Phaylus
dies of a consumption. War between the Lacedæmonians and
Megalopolitans. Charonea taken
Chæronea taken by Phalæcus. War between
the Persians, Egyptians, and Phænicians. Salamis, in Cyprus,
besieged. The cruelty of Artaxerxes Ochus towards the Sido.
nians. The calamity of Sidon.
WHEN Aristodamus was archon at Athens, and Caius Sulpitius
bore the consulship at Rome, the hundred and seventh olympiad was
celebrated, wherein Smicrinus the Tarentine was victor. Then
Phayllus, the Phocian general, after the death of his brother, began
to repair the affairs of the Phocians, now almost at the last extre-
mity, through the late rout and slaughter of the soldiers. For
being possessed of a vast treasure, he raised a great army of merce-
naries, and brought over many to join with him in the war. And
being very free of his purse, he not only brought over private men
to his party, but also prevailed with famous cities to be his confe-
derates: for the Lacedæmonians sent him a thousand soldiers,
and the Achaians two thousand; but the Athenians sent him five
thousand foot, and four hundred horse, under the command of
Nausicles.
Lycophron and Pitholaus, tyrants of Pheræ, after the death of
Onomarchus, being destitute of succours, delivered up Pheræ into
the hands of Philip; and though they were discharged upon their
oaths to be quiet, yet they collected two thousand mercenaries, and
went over to Phayllus, to assist the Phocians: and not a few of the
smaller cities assisted them by their bountiful contributions towards
the soldier's pay. For gold, feeding and kindling men's covetous-
ness, from a prospect of gain urged them forward to grasp at their
own advantage. Upon these encouragements Phayllus marches
with his army into Baotia, but is overcome at Orchomenum, with the
loss of many of his men.
Afterwards, there was another battle at the river Cephisus, where-
in the Baotians had the better, and killed four hundred, and took
five hundred prisoners. A few days after, a third fight took place at
Coronea, where the Bootians had again the advautage, and killed
fifty of the Phocians, and took a hundred and thirty prisoners.
But having done at present rith the affairs of the Baotians and
a
Chap. VIII.
111
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Phocians, we return to Philip, who, when he had overcome Onomar-
chus in so signal a battle, freed the Pheræans from the yoke of tyran-
ny, and restored the city to liberty. And having settled all other
matters in Thessaly, he marched towards Pylos, to fight with the
Phocians: but being denied passage by the Athenians, he returned
into Macedonia, which kingdom he enlarged both by the help of his
sword, and likewise by his piety towards the gods.
In the mean time Phayllus marched with his army towards the
Locrians, called Epicnemidii, and assaulted and took by force some
cities; but one called Aryca he gained in the night by treachery, but
was presently repulsed and beaten out, with the loss of two hundred
of his men. Afterwards, encamping at a town called Abas, the Bæo-
tians surprised the Phocians in the night, and killed a great number
of them. Upon which success they were so encouraged, that they
made incursions into the territories of the Phocians, and, harassing
and spoiling the country round about, heaped together abundance
of plunder. But in their return, coming to relieve Aryca, which was
then besieged, Phayllus fell suddenly and unexpectedly upon them,
and routed them; and then taking the city by storm, plundered it,
and razed it to the ground. But at length he fell into a lingering
distemper*, which continued a long time, and, after great torments
in his body, as he justly deserved, he died, leaving Phalæcus the son
of Onomarchus, (instigator of the sacred war), to be general of the
Phocians, who being as yet but a very raw youth, he appointed Mna-
seas, one of his friends, to be his tutor and governor.
Some time after, the Bæotiats attacked the Phocians in the night,
and killed Mnaseas the general, and two hundred of his soldiers.---
Not long after, in an engagement between a party of horse at Chæ-
ropea, Phalæcus being worsted, lost many of his men.
During these transactions, there were great commotions in Pelo-
ponnesus, upon these occasions. The Lacedæmonians fell out with
them of Megalopolis; and therefore Archidamus, their general, made
incursions into their borders: with which the Megalopolitans, being
highly incensed, and not being able to contend by their own strength,
sought for relief from their confederates. Upon which the Argives,
Sicyonians, and Messenians, assisted them with all the force they
could muster. After them, the Thebans came in to their assistance
with four thousand foot, and five hundred horse, under the command
of Cephision. Being thus strengthened, the Megalopolitans made
an expedition, and encamped at the fountains of Aphæus. On the
other side, the Lacedæmonians were joined by three thousand foot
from the Phocians, and by an hundred and fifty horse from Lycophron
• A consumption. Some say, he was burnt in the temple at Abas.
112
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and Pitbolaus, who were lately deposed from their government over
the Pheræans. And, having got together a considerable army, they
encamped at Mantinea. But, marching hence to Ornea, a city
belonging to the Argives, they took it before the enemy could come
up to them; for this place was in league with the Megalopolitans :
and, though the Argives broke forth upon them, yet they were over-
come in the engagement, and lost above two hundred men.
Then the Thebans, double the Lacedæmonians in number, but
much inferior to them in their order of discipline, came upon them;
upon which there was a sharp engagement, and, even while the victory
was doubtful, the Argives flagged, and made away, with all their con-
federates, to their cities. But the Lacedæmonians entered into Ar-
cadia, and took Elisunta by storm, and, after they had plundered the
town, returned to Sparta.
Not long after the Thehans, with their confederates, routed the
enemy at Telphusa, and, with the slaughter of many of them, took
Anaxandrus, the general, and several others, to the number of sixty,
prisoners. Presently after, they became conquerors, likewise, in
two other battles, and cut off many of their enemies. At length,
after a remarkable victory gained by the Lacedæmonians, the ar-
mies on both sides returned to their several cities; and, the Lace-
dæmonians and Megalopolitans entering into a truce, the Thebans
returned into Bæotia.
In the mean time Phalæcus, continuing still in Baotia, took Chæ-
ronea; but, upon the Thehans coming in to its relief, he was
forced to quit it again. Afterwards, the Baotians entered Phocis
with a great army, and wasted and spoiled a great part of it, and
harassed all the country round about, and plundered and destroyed
every thing that was in their way. They took also some little towns,
and, loading themselves with abundance of plunder, returned into
Baotia.
When Thessalus was chief magistrate at Athens, and Marcus Fa-
bius and Titus Quintius executed the consulship at Rome, the The.
bans, wearicd out with the toils of the Phocian war, and brought
very low in their treasure, sent ambassadors to the king of Persia to
solicit that king to supply them with a sum of money; to which Ar-
taxerxes readily consented, and without delay furnished them with
three hundred talents. However, there was little or nothing done
this year worth taking notice of between the Baotians and Phocians,
except some skirmishes, and harassing the countries of each other.
In Asia, the Persian king having invaded Egypt some years before
with a numerous army; but, miscarrying in his design, at this time
renewed the war against the Egyptians, and after many worthy ac-
Chap. VIII.
113
DIODORUS SICULUS.
tions performed by his valour and diligence, he recovered Egypt,
Phænicia, and Cyprus. But that the history may be made more
plain and evident, we shall first declare the causes and grounds of
the war, looking back a little to the times proper for the occasion.
The Egyptians having heretofore rebelled against the Persians,
Artaxerxes, surnamed Ochus, notwithstanding, sat still and quiet,
being no ways adicted to arms. And though armies under the com-
mand of several captains had been sent forth, yet, through the trea-
chery and unskilfulness of the generals, he was often unfortunate and
unsuccessful. On which account, though he was greatly contemned
by the Egyptians, yet his love to his ease and pleasure. had that as-
cendency over him, as to induce him patiently to bear the disgrace.
But now, when the Phoenicians and kings of Cyprus, in imitation of
this disloyalty of the Egyptians, and in contempt of him, were all
running into rebellion, the king was at length roused, and determin-
ed to make war upon them. But he judged it not advisable or pru-
dent to manage the war by his deputies and generals, but resolved
to go himself, and try his own fortune and conduct in the defence
and preservation of his kingdom. To that end he made great pre-
parations of arms, darts, provisions, and forces; and raised three
hundred thousand foot, and thirty thousand horse; and rigged out
feet of three hundred galleys, besides six hundred ships of burden,
and other transport ships for all sorts of provisions. This was the
origin of the war in Phænicia.
In Phænicia there is a famous city called Tripolis its name agree-
ing with the nature of the place; for three cities are contained with-
in its bounds, a furlong distant from one another, one called the city
of the Arcadians, the other of the Sidonians, and the third of the Tyri-
It is the most eminent of all the cities of Phoenicia, being that
where the general senate of all the Phænicians usually meet and con-
sult about the weighty affairs of the nation. The kings, lords lieu-
tenants, and generals then in Sidon, carrying themselves by their se-
vere edicts rigorously and haughtily towards the Sidonians, the citi-
zens being so abused, and not being longer able to brook it, studied
how they might revolt from the Persians. Upon which, the rest of
the Phænicians being wrought upon to vindicate their liberty, sent
messengers to Nectanehus the king of Egypt, then at war with the
Persians, to receive them as confederates; and so the whole nation
prepared for war. And as Sidon then exceeded all the rest in wealth,
and even private men by the advantage of trade had grown very richi,
they built a great number of ships, and raised a potent army of
ceparics; and both arms, darts, and provisions, and all other things
necessary for the war, were prepared. And that they might appear
Vol. 2. No. 41,
ans.
mer-
114
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
first in the war, they spoiled and ruined the king's garden, cutting
down all the trees where the Persian kings used to recreate and di-
vert themselves. Then they burnt all the hay which the lord-
lieutenants had laid up for the use of the horses. At last, they seized
upon the Persians, who liad so exulted over them, and led them to
punishment. And in this manner began the war of the Persians
with the Phænicians: for the king, being informed what the rebels
had so impudently done, threatened to revenge it upon all the inha-
bitants of Phænicia, especially upon the Sidonians. To this end, he
rendezvoused all his army, both horse and foot, at Babylon, and pre-
sently marched away against the Phænicians. In the mean time,
while the king was upon his march, the governor of Syria, and Ma-
zæus, lord lieutenant of Cilicia, joined together against the Phæni-
cians: on the other side, Temnes, king of Sidon, procured for their
assistance four thousand Greek mercenaries from the Egyptians, un-
der the command of Mentor the Rhodian; with these, and a body of
the citizens, he engaged with the lord lieutenants, and got the day,
and expelled them out of Phænicia.
While these things were acted in Phænicia, the war in Cyprus
began at the same time, the one depending much upon the other.
There were nine great cities in this island, under whose juris-
diction were all the other smaller towns. Every one had its sepa-
rate king, who managed all public affairs; but all were subject to the
king of Persia.
All these entered into a confederacy, and, after the example of the
Phænicians, shook off the yoke; and, having made all necessary pre-
parations for the war, took upon them the absolute power and sove-
Teignty in their own several dominions.
Artaxerxes, being enraged at this insolence, wrote to Idrieus*,
prince of Caria, (then lately come to the throne, a friend and confer
derate of the Persians, as all his ancestors were before him), to raise
him both land and sea-forces, for his assistance against the kings of
Cyprus. Upon which, he forthwith rigged out a fleet of forty sail,
and sent on board eight thousand mercenaries for Cyprus, under the
command of Phocion the Athenian, and Evagoras, who had been for
some years before king of the island. As soon as they landed in
Cyprus, they marched then strait to Salamis, the greatest of the
cities, where they cast up a trench, and fortified themselves, and so
closely besieged the city both by sea and land. The island had
continued a long time in peace and quietness, and therefore was
grown very rich; so that the soldiers, who had now the power to
range over the country, had got together great treasures : which
Or Garieus.
Chap. VIII.
115
DIODORUS SICULUS.
plenty and confluence, being noised abroad, many on the opposite
continent, in hopes of gain, came flocking out of Syria and Cilicia,
to the Persian camp. The army of Phocion and Evagoras being in-
creased to double the number, the petty kings were brought into great
straits, and much terrified. And in this condition was Cyprus at
that time,
About this time the king of Persia marched with his army from
Babylon, and made towards Phænicia: but Mentor, general of the
Sidonians, when he heard how great an army was approaching, and
considering how unequal in number the rebels were, he privately
consulted his own safety. To that end he secretly despatched away
from Sidon a faithful servant of his own, called Thessalion, to Artax-
erxes, promising to betray Sidon to him; and that he would effec-
tually assist him in subduing Egypt, he being in that respect more
especially able to serve him, because he was well acquainted with all
the places in Egypt, and knew exactly the most convenient passages
over the river Nile. The king was wonderfully pleased when he
heard what Thessalion said, and promised that he would not only
pardon Mentor for what he had done, but would bountifully reward
him, if he performed what he had promised. But Thessalion further
added, that Mentor would expect that the king should confirm his
word by giving out his right hand. Upon which the king was so
incensed (as being distrusted) that he gave up Thessalian into the
hands of the officers, with command to cut off his head. When he
was led to execution, he only said this _ Thou, O king, doest what
thou pleasest; but Mentor, who is able to accomplish all I have said,
will perform nothing that is promised, because thou refusest to give
him assurance on thy part. Upon hearing of which, the king altered
his mind, and commanded the officers to discharge the man; and sa
he put forth his right hand to Thessalion, which is a most sure and
certain earnest among the Persians of performance of what is pro-
mised. Then he returned to Sidon, and secretly imparted to Mentor
what he had done.
In the mean time the king, counting it his greatest happiness if he
could subdue Egypt, (which he had before attempted in vain), sent
ambassadors to the chiefest cities of Greece, to solicit some auxiliary
forces from them. The Athenians and Lacedæmonians returned
answer_That they would still continue friends to the Persians; but
that they could not supply them with forces. But the Thebans com-
manded a thousand heavy-armed men to be sent to the assistance of
the king, under the command of Lacrates. The Argives likewise
furnished bim with three thousand inen, lut sent no captain with
116
Book XVI. (
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
them, because the king had expressly by name appointed Nicostratus
to command them, and they were unwilling to contradict him. He
was a man of great account, both as to council and execution, having
both valour and prudence, assistant one to another. And, because
he was of vast strength of body, imitating Hercules in his arms, he
carried both a club and a lion's skin in every battle. Neither were
the Grecians who inhabited upon the sea-coasts of Asia wanting on
their parts, but sent out six thousand men: so that all the auxiliary
forces from the Grecians amounted to ten thousand. But, before
these came up, the king had passed through Syria, and entered Phe-
nicia, and encamped not far from Sidon.
In the mean time, while the king spent a considerable time in
making preparation, the Sidonians had been very active and diligent
in furnishing themselves with arms and provisions; and besides, had
drawn a treble deep and broad trench, and a high wall round the city.
They had likewise a brave body of tall, handsome, and stout men
of the citizens, well exercised and trained up in martial discipline out of
the schools: and this city went far beyond all the rest of the cities
of Phoenicia for wealth, and all other sumptuous ornaments, both for
state and grandeur: and that which was not the least among the rest,
they were furnished with a hundred gallies, of three and five oars on
a bank.
And now Temnes* became a party with Mentor (who commanded
the mercenaries out of Egypt) in the treachery, and left Mentor to
keep a certain quarter of the city, in order to help forward the exe-
cution of the treason; and himself went out, with five hundred sol-
diers, upon a pretence to go to the common assembly of the Phoe-
nicians: for he had in his company a hundred of the best quality of
the citizens to be senators, as was pretended; but these he caused to
be seized, and delivered up into the hands of Artaxerxes, as soon as
they came near where the king was, who received him as his friend,
but ordered the hundred noblemen, as authors of the rebellion, to be
darted to death.
Presently after, when five hundred more of the chiefest of the Si-
doniams came to him with all the badges of submission imaginable,
he called Temnes back, and asked him whether he was able to deliver
the city into his hands, (for he earnestly desired to possess himself
of the place upon any terms whatsoever, rather than upon treaty, to
the end that the utter ruin of the citizens might be a terror to the
rest), when Temnes assured him he was able to effect it, the king,
being still implacable, caused all the five hundred (who carried olive-
* llere Mentor is put for Temnes in the Greek.
} Chap. VIII.
117
DIODORUS SICULUS.
branches before them, as supplicants for mercy, and as tokens of sub-
mission) to be shot to death with darts. Afterwards, Temnes readily
persuaded the Egyptian mercenaries to receive him and the king within
the walls; and so, by this treacherous contrivance, Sidon came again
into the hands of the Persians. Then the king, judging that Temnes
could do him no further service, caused his throat to be cut likewise.
In the mean time, the Sidonians had burnt all their shipping be-
fore the king came, lest any of the inhabitants, consulting their own
safety, should get away by sea. At length, when the Sidonians saw
that the enemy had entered, and many thousands of men ranging here
and there, and dispersed all over the city, they shut themselves up,
with their wives aud children, in their houses, and set them on fire,
and so were all consumed together, It is said there were above forty
thousand (with household servants) that perished in these flames.
After this destruction of the Sidonians, by which the whole city
and inhabitants were consumed to ashes, the king sold the rubbish
and relicts of the fire for many talents: for, the city being very rich,
there was found a vast quantity of gold and silver melted down by
the flames. Thus sad was the calamity under which the Sidonians
suffered. The rest of the cities, being terrified with this destruction,
presently surrendered themselves to the Persians. A little before
this Artemisia, the princess of Caria, died, having governed two
years: Idrieus, her brother, succeeded in the principality, and reigned
seven years.
In Italy, the Romans made a truce with the Prænestines, and entered
into a league with the Samnites; and cut off the heads of two hundred
and sixty in the forum, of those that sided with the Tarquins.
In Sicily, Leptines and Callippus, the Syracusans, being furnished
with a considerable army, besieged Rhegium, which was still held by
a garrison of Dionysius the younger; and, having forced out the garri-
son, they restored the Rhegians to their antient government,
118
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. IX.
Evagoras beheaded in Cyprus. Artaxerxes marches against
Egypt, and gains it all by the policy of Mentor. Loses many
of his men at the lake of Sorbon. Mentor advanced. Mentor's
stratagem to subdue Hermeas, prince of Atarnea. Zena razed
by Philip. The king of Egypt abdicates his kingdom, and flies
to Ethiopia.
AFTERWARDS, Apollodorus being chief magistrate at Athens,
and Marcus Valerius and Caius Sulpitius Roman consuls, all the
cities of Cyprus surrendered themselves to the Persians, excepting
Salamis, which was then besieged by Evagoras and Phocion, and
which Protagoras, king of Salamis, stoutly defended.
In the mean time, Evagoras endeavoured to regain the kingdom
of his ancestors, and contrived to be restored to his antient right, by
the help of the Persian king. But, being afterwards accused before
Artaxerxes, (who thereupon relieved Protagoras), he laid aside all
hopes of being restored, and, having afterwards cleared himself of
all that was laid to his clarge, he was intrusted with the government
of a larger province in Asia, which he so misgoverned, that he was
forced to fly again into Cyprus, where, being seized, he had his bead
struck off. But Protagoras, voluntarily submitting himself to the
Persian king, kept the kingdom of Salamis, without any rival, for
the time to come.
In the mean time the king of Persia, after the ruin of Sidon, being
joined by the forces that came from Argos, Thebes, and the antient
cities, marched with his whole army against Egypt. When he came
to the Great Lough*, or Lake, through ignorance of the places, he
Jost part of his army in the bogs there, called Barrathra. But, be-
cause we have before, in the first book, spoken of the nature of this
lake, and the strange things there happening, we shall now forbear to
repeat them.
Having passed these gulphs, he came to Pelusium, the first mouth
of the river Nile, where it enters into the sea. Here the Grecians
lay close to the city, but the Persians encamped forty furlongs off.
In the mean while, the Egyptians (in regard the Persians had given
them a long time to prepare all things necessary for the war) had
made strong defences and fortifications at all the mouths of the Nile,
Sorbon is the Lahe oi Sorbon.
Chap. IX.
119
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
especially at Pelusium, because that was the first and most conveni-
ently situated; where five thousand men were in garrison, under the
command of Philophron. The Thebans, above all the Grecians,
had a desire to give evidence of their valour, and to that end they
first of all valiantly attempted to force the trench, which was both
strait and deep, and carried it; but, as soon as they had gained it,
those of the garrison made a sally; upon which there was a sharp
engagement, insomuch that the dispute was very hot on both sides,
and continued all the day, the night scarcely putting an end to the
contest.
The next day the king divided the Greeks into three brigades;
each of which had a Greek commander, with whom was joined a
Persian officer, one who was in the greatest estimation for valour
and loyalty.
The first brigade was of the Bæotians, under the command of
Lacrates a Theban, and Rosaces a Persian. This Rosaces was de-
scended from some of those seven Persians who deposed the Magi,
and was governor of lonia and Lydia. He led a great body, both
horse and foot, all barbarians.
The second brigade was composed of the Argives, commanded
by Nicostratus, with whom was Aristazanes a Persian, who was
employed as an envoy in all the special affairs of the king, and
next to Bagoas, was the most trusty, and the chief of his friends.
He had five thousand soldiers, and four-score gallies, under his
command.
The third brigade was led by Mentor, he who betrayed Sidon, who
formerly commanded the mercenaries; his colleague was Bagoas,
a bold fellow, and none more ready in executing any villany, in whom
the king put great confidence. He commanded the Greeks that were
the king's subjects, and a great body of barbarians, besides a consi-
derable navy. The king kept the rest of the army with himself, and
was very careful in managing and overseeing the whole concern of
the war.
The army of the Persians thus divided, Nectanebus, the king of
Egypt, (though he was far short in number), neither valued the mula
titude nor the division of the Persian troops: for he had in his army
twenty thousand Grecian mercenaries, as many Africans, and three-
score thousand Egyptians, by them called warriors; and, besides
these, was furnished with an incredible number of river-boats, fitted
to fight in the river Nile. Moreover, he had defended that side of
tlie river towards Arabia with many castles and garrisons, exactly
fortified with trenches and strong walls, and was prepared with ple.
of all other things necessary for the war. But, through imprudent
120
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
and want of good advice, he lost all. The chief cause of the mis-
carriage was his ignorance how to manage warlike affairs, and his
security, upon the account of his having before beaten the Persians;
for, at the time of that success, having had most expert commanders,
Diophantus the Athenian, and Lanius the Spartan, who were both
valiant and experienced soldiers, all things succeeded according to
his heart's desire. But, being now conceited of his own sufficiency
and ability to command and order the army, he would admit of no
other assistant; and therefore, through want of skill and experience,
nothing was managed to advantage, or becoming an expert com-
mander.
Having therefore strongly garrisoned the towns, he himself, with
thirty thousand Egyptians, five thousand Grecians, and half of the
Libyans, defended the passages which lay most open and easy to
invasions.
Things thus ordered on both sides, Nicostratus, who commanded
the Argives, having, by some Egyptian guides, (whose wives and
children the Persians kept as hostages), got through a certain cut or
ditch, passed over with his fleet to a place as far out of sight as he
could, and having landed his men there, encamped. Those who
kept the neighbouring Egyptian garrisons, directly they learnt where
the enemy was encamped, speedily marched against them with no
less than seven thousand men, under the command of Clinus, of
the isle of Coos, who drew up his men in battalia, in order to fight
them: on the other side, those lately landed, likewise put themselves
into a posture of defence; when a sharp engagement ensued, in
which the Grecians on the side of the Persians so gallantly behaved
themselves, that they killed Clinus the general, and above five thou-
sand of the rest of his army.
Upon hearing of this defeat, Nectanebus was in a terrible fright,
for that he believed the rest of the Persian troops would easily pass
over the river. Being therefore afraid lest the enemy would bend all
his force against Memphis, the seat-royal, he made it his chief care
and concern to secure this place, and thereupon marched away with
the army he had to Memphis, to prevent the besieging of it.
In the mean time, Lacrates the Theban, the commander of the
first brigade, pushes on the siege of Pelusium; and having drained
the water out of the trench, and turned it another way, he raised a
mount, and there placed his engines of battery against the city.
And after a great part of the walls were battered down, the Pelu-
sians raised up others in their stead, and speedily made high wooden
towers.
These conflicts upon the walls continued for some days, during
Chap. IX.
121
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which time the Grecians that defended the place valiantly repelled
the assailants. But as soon as they heard of the king's departure for
Memphis, they were so affrighted, that they sent messengers to treat
upon terms of surrender. Whereupon Lacrates agreeing with them
upon the sacred tie of an oath, that upon their delivering up Pelusium,
they should return to Greece with whatever they brought with them
out of the town, they surrendered the place. Then Artaxerxes sent
Bagoas with a garrison of Persians, to take possession of Pelusium,
whose soldiers, when they entered the town, took away from the
Grecians, as they were going out, many of those things that they had
brought with them.
Being thus abused, they took it heinously, and with great complaints
called on the gods, as witnesses and revengers of perjury and breach
of faith.
Lacrates being justly indignant at this base dealing, attacked the
barbarians, and killed some of them, and put the rest to flight, and
so protected the Greeks thus injured contrary to the agreement con-
firmed by oath. And though Bagoas, who fled amongst the rest,
and returned to the king, accused Lacrates for what he had done,
yet the king adjudged that the soldiers of Bagoas were dealt with
according to their merits, and punished those Persians that were
authors of the rapine. And in this manner came Pelusium into the
hands of the Persians.
But Mentor, commander of the third brigade, recovered Bubastis,
and many other cities, to the obedience of the Persian king, by his
own stratagem. For whereas all these cities were garrisoned by two
sorts of people, Grecians and Egyptians; Mentor caused a report to
be spread abroad, that Artaxerxes would receive most graciously, and
pardon all those that of their own accord would give up their cities
to the king; and on the other hand, that all such as he might take by
force, should fare no better than Sidon. He also commanded that all
the gates* should be opened, and that all who wished might be per-
mitted to go away. So that all the Egyptian captives in the camp
being gone without any opposition, the report was in a short time
spread abroad through all the cities of Egypt. Whereupon all the
towns were presently filled with seditions, through quarrels and dis-
sentions between the Egyptians and the foreign auxiliaries. For all
parties strove who should be most active and forward in betraying
their several garrisons, every one aiming at his own advantage, by an
interest in the favour of the conqueror. And the first that began
was Bubastis. For as soon as Mentor and Bagoas encamped before
* Gates of the camp.
VOL. 2. No. 41.
R
122
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the city, the Egyptians, unknown to the Grecians, sent one of their
countrymen to Bagoas, and promised to surrender the city to him, if
they might be all pardoned. This being discovered by the Grecians,
they pursued and seized bim that was sent, and by threatening and
affrighting him, made him confess the truth of the matter. Upon
which, being highly enraged, they violently attacked the Egyptians,
killed some, wounded others, and drove the rest into a narrow corner
of the city.
They that were thus assailed, gave intelligence to Bagoas of what
was done, and entreated him, that without delay, he would take
possession of the city, which they would deliver up to him upon his
approach.
In the mean time, the Grecians sent a herald to Mentor, who se-
cretly advised them to set upon the barbarians as soon as Bagoas bad
entered the town. Bagoas, therefore, having entered with his
Persians, but without the consent of the Greeks, as soon as part of
the soldiers were let in, the Grecians shut the gates, and suddenly
attacked the barbarians, and killed them every man, and took Ba-
goas himself prisoner, who, coming to understand that there was no
means left for his deliverance but by Mentor, he earnestly entreated
him to interpose for his preservation, promising that for the future
he would never undertake any thing without his advice. Mentor
prevailed with the Grecians to discharge him, and to surrender the
city, so that the whole success and glory of the action was attributed
to him.
Bagoas being thus set at liberty by his means, entered into a solemn
covenant of friendship, upon oath, with Mentor, and faithfully
kept it till the time of his death; so that these two always con-
curring and agreeing, were able to do more with the king, than all
his other friends, or any of his kindred. For Mentor being made
the lord lieutenant of Artaxerxes over all the Asiatic shore, was ma-
terially serviceable to the king, both by procuring soldiers out of
Greece, and by his faithful and diligent administration of the go-
verninent.
Bagoas commanding all as viceroy in the higher parts of Asia,
obtained such power, through his consultation with Mentor, on all
occasions, that he had the kingdom at command; neither did Artax-
erxes any thing without his consent. And after the king's death,
his power was so great that the successors were ever nominated and
appointed by him, and all the affairs of the kingdom were so entirely
under his management, that he wanted nothing but the name of a
king. But we shall relate these things in their proper place.
Chap. IX.
123
DIODORUS SICULUS.
After the surrender of Bubastis, the rest of the cities, out of fear,
submitted and delivered up themselves upon articles, into the hands
of the Persians.
In the mean while Nectanebus, who was now at Memphis, seeing
the quick movements of the enemy, durst not venture a battle in
defence of his sovereignty, but abdicating his kingdom, packed up a
great deal of treasure, and fled into Ethiopia. And so Artaxerxes
possessed himself of all Egypt, and demolished the walls of all the
cities, especially those that were the greatest, and of the most ac-
count; and heaped together an infinite mass of gold and silver, by
despoiling the temples. He also carried away all the records and
writings out of the most antient temples; which Bagoas a short time
after suffered the priests to redeem for a great sum of money. Then
he sent home the Greek auxiliaries with ample rewards to every one
according to their deserts, for their services; and intrusting Phe-
rendates with the government of Egypt, he returned with his
army laden with spoil, triumphing in the glory of his victory, to
Babylon.
At the time when Callimachus was lord chancellor at Athens, and
Marcus Fabius and Publius Valerius were Roman consuls, Artaxerxes
advanced Mentor for the great services he had done him, especially
in the Egyptian war, above all his friends; and that he might put a
mark upon his valour by a reward more than ordinary, he bestowed
a
upon him a hundred talents of silver, and rich furniture for his
house. He likewise made him prefect of all the Asiatic shore, and
general of his army, with absolute power to suppress all rebellions in
those parts.
Mentor being in near alliance and kindred with Artabazus and
Memnon, (who had not long before made war upon the Persians,
and had now fled out of Asia, to Philip, in Macedonia), by his inte-
rest with the king procured their pardon, and thereupon sent for them
both to come to him, with their families: for Artabazus bad by
Mentor and Memnon's sister, eleven sons and ten daughters; with
which numerous progeny Mentor was greatly delighted, and ad-
vanced the young men, as they grew up, to high places of command
in the army.
The first expedition which Mentor made was against Hennias, the
prince or tyrant of Atarnea*, who had rebelled against Artaxerxes,
and was possessed of many strong cities and castles: upon making
him a promise to procure the king's pardon, he brought him to a
parley; aud upou that occasion having surprised him, he imprisoned
* Atarnea, in Mysia, over against Lesbos.
124
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
him, and possessing himself of his seal-ring, he wrote letters in
his name, to the several cities, signifying that through the means of
Mentor he had been restored to the king's favour: and he sent
away, likewise, with those that carried the letters, such as he had
ordered to take possession, in the name of the king, of all the forts
and castles. The governors of the cities, giving credit to the
letters, and being, likewise, very desirous of peace, delivered up
all the towns and forts to the king in every place throughout the
country.
All the revolted cities being recovered by this trick of Mentor's,
without any hazard or fatigue, the king was highly pleased with him,
as having acted the part of a brave and prudent general.
And with no less success, partly by policy, and partly by force of
arms, he reduced in a short time the other captains that were in
rebellion. And thus stood affairs in Asia at this time.
In Europe, Philip, king of Macedon, made an expedition against
the Chalcidean* cities, and took Zena, and razed it to the ground,
and caused other cities, through fear, likewise to submit. He also
made another attack upon Pheræ, and cast out its prince Pitholaus.
About that time Spartacus, king of Pontus, died, after having reigned
five years. Parysades, his brother, succeeded him, and governed
eight-and-thirty years.
a
CHAP. X.
Philip takes Olynthus, and other cities in the Hellespont. The
Athenians jealous of Philip, and instigated by Demosthenes.
Philip's policies. The value of the riches taken out of the
temple at Delphos. Dionysius sent presents to Delphos, which
were taken by the Athenians. His letter to the Athenians. The
temple burnt. The end of the Phocian war. The punishments
decreed by the Amphictyons against the Phocians. The miseries
of the sacrilegious persons. Timoleon sent to Syracuse.
AFTER the end of this year, Theophilus ruled as archon at Athens,
and Caius Sulpitius and Caius Quintius executed the consular dignity
at Rome, at which time was celebrated the hundred and eighth
Olympiad, in which Polycles of Cyrene bore away the crown of victory.
* In Thrace,
Chap. X.
125
DIODORUS SICULUS.
At the same time Philip made an expedition against the cities of the
Hellespont, of which Micaberna and Torone were betrayed into his
hands. Then he made against Olynthus (the greatest city of those
parts) with a very numerous army, and having first routed the
Olynthians in two battles, he laid siege to the town; upon which he
made many assaults, and lost a great number of his men in their
approaches to the walls. At length, by bribing Euthycrates and
Lasthenes, the chief magistrates of Olynthus, he entered the city by
treachery, and plundered it, and sold all the citizens for slaves, and
exposed to sale all the prey and plunder under the spear. Whereby
he furnished himself with abundance of money for carrying on the
war, and put all the rest of the cities into a terrible fright.
Then he bountifully rewarded such as had behaved themselves
with courage and valour, and having exacted vast sums of money from
the richest of the citizens of the surrounding cities, he made use of
it to corrupt many to betray their country; so that he himself often
boasted that he had enlarged his dominion more by his gold than by
his sword.
In the mean time, the Athenians being jealous of the growing
greatness of Philip, ever after sent aid to them whom he invaded by
his arms, and despatched ambassadors to all the cities to desire them
to look to their liberties, and to put to death such of their citizens as
should be discovered to go about to betray them, promising withal to
join with them on all occasions. At length they proclaimed open
war against Philip.
Demosthenes the orator (at that time the most eminent in politics
and eloquence of all the Grecians) was the chief instrument that in-
cited the Athenians to take upon them the defence of all Greece:
but the city could not cure that desire of treason that infected many
of the citizens; so many traitors there were at that time all over
Greece. And therefore it is reported, that Philip having an earnest
desire to gain that once strong and eminent city, and one of the
inhabitants of the place telling him it could never be taken by force,
he asked him whether it were not possible that gold might mount
the walls; for he had learnt by experience, that those who could
not be subdued by force, were easily overcome by gold. To this
end he had, by means of his bribes, procured traitors in every city;
and such as would receive his money, he called his friends and
guests. And thus with evil communications he corrupted men's
manners.
After the taking of Olynthus, he celebrated olympic games to the
gods, in commemoration of his victory, and offered most splendid
sacrifices; and in regard there were a vast number of people collected
126
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
together, he set forth specious sports, and recreating plays, and invited
a great number of strangers to his feasts: and in the midst of his
cups would talk courteously and familiarly with them, and drink to
many, and reach over the cup to them with his own hands. To many
he gave rich gifts, and made large and liberal promises to all, to the
end that his kindness and generosity might be proclaimed abroad
by them that had had experience. During the time of his feasting,
observing Satyrus the stage-player to look discontented, and knit his
brow, he asked him, why he only would not accept of the fruits of
his bounty and generosity? To which he answered, that he would
very willingly receive a certain gift from him; but he was afraid if
he should ask it openly, he would deny him. Upon which the king
,
began laughing, and bid him ask what he pleased, and he would freels
bestow it upon him. Upon which he desired that two young maids,
in the flower of their age, the daughters of one that was his host,
might be given to him from among the captives; whose liberties he
craved not to make any gain or advantage of them himself, but really
to give them portions out of his own estate, and procure them hus-
bands, and likewise to prevent their being injured by any unworthy
attempt. The king so approved of this request, that he not only
forthwith ordered the virgins to be delivered to Satyrus without ran-
som, but bestowed upon him, likewise, many other rich gifts and
presents, as special marks of his favour and bounty; so that many,
excited with the hopes of reward, strove which should serve
Philip most, and be the first that should betray their country into
his hands.
The next year Themistocles was archon at Athens, and Caius
Cornelius and Marcus Popilius were Roman consuls; at which time
the Baotians overran the country of the Phocians with depreda-
tions, and beat the enemy at Hyampolis, killing about seventy of
them. But not long after, engaging with the Phocians in another
battle, they were routed at Coronea, and lost many of their men.
And whereas the Phocians were possessed of some small towns in
Bæotia, the Baotians made an inroad upon them, and shamefully
spoiled and destroyed all their standing corn; but in their return
were beaten.
While these things were transacting, Phalæcus, the general of the
Phocians, being convicted of sacrilege, in converting the sacred
treasure of the temple to his own use, was deprived of his commis.
sion, and three others were created in his place, viz. Democrates,
Callias, and Sophanes, who managed the business and trial concern-
ing the sacred treasures, at such time as the Phocians demanded an
account of them that had the disposing of it. The greatest part of
Chap. X.
127
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the money was found to be intrusted in the hands of Philo; who
not being able to give a clear account, was condemned; and being
put upon the rack by order of the generals, he named many of his
accomplices. At length, being tortured to the utmost extremity,
he died upon the rack, and thus came to an end worthy of his
impiety.
The robbers indeed restored the rest of the money that was left,
but they themselves were put to death, as sacrilegious persons. The
first of the former generals, Philomelus, forbore to meddle with the
sacred treasures; but his brother and successor Onomarchus con-
verted much of those treasures to the use of the war. The third
general, Phayllus, brother of Onomarchus, while he executed that
command, made use of many of the consecrated things of the tem-
ple, for the paying off the foreign soldiers : for he melted down and
coined into money the hundred and twenty golden tiles dedicated by
Cresus, king of Lydia. In the same manner he dealt with the three
hundred golden bowls, (or viols), every one weighing two minas;
and likewise the lion and woman of gold, all which weighed thirty
talents of gold: so that all the gold, according to the value of silver,
would amount to four thousand talents. And, besides these, there
were things in silver, dedicated by Crưsus, and others, carried away
by all the generals, in their several times, above the value of six
thousand talents: so that the whole sum, both in gold and silver,
amounted to above ten thousand talents.
There are some authors who say, that there was as much trea-
sure sacrilegiously taken away, as Alexander afterwards found in
the treasury of the Persians. Phalæcus, likewise, with the officers
of the army, went about to dig up the pavement of the temple,
because some person had told him that a vast treasure of gold and
silver lay under it: for confirmation of the truth of it, he brought
in the testimony of that most antient and famous poet Homer,
where he says thus:
Of all the gold in Phæbus' marble fane,
Which Pytho's rocky treasuries contain.
And just as the soldiers began to dig near to the tripod, a sudden
earthquake terrified the Phocians; so that the gods seeming by such
manifest token to threaten vengeance upon the sacriligeous persons,
they desisted. But the first author of that impiety, Philo, (of
whom we spoke before), in a short time after, felt the just vengeance
of the deity. But notwithstanding the whole guilt of this impious
sacrilege be imputed to the Phocians, yet both the Athen
Lacedæmonians, who assisted the Phocians, were partne
offence, for they had more money paid to them than was prop
128
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
able to the number of the soldiers which they sent: for indeed at that
very time the Athenians carried it but impiously towards the oracle;
for but a little before this robbery at Delphos, when Iphicrates lay
with the feet before Corcyra, and Dionysius, prince of Syracuse, had
sent some statues of gold and ivory to Olympus and Delphos, he by
chance intercepted the vessels which transported them; and having
now possession of the dedicated goods, sent to Athens to know how
he must dispose of them; the Athenians bid him vever scrupulously
examine, or make inquiry after those things that were said to belong
to the gods, but to consider how to provide for the maintaining of the
army. In obedience to which decree of his country, he exposed
the sacred ornaments of the gods to sale under the spear. Upon
which the prince, being highly incensed against the Athenians, wrote
to them in this manner:
Dionysius, to the Senate and People of Athens.
It is not fit that I should
say
health to you,
since
ye
have been so
sacrilegious against the gods, both by sea and land; and, having
intercepted the images which we had sent, in order to be devoted
to the gods, you have converted them into money, and so have pro-
phanely abused the mightiest of the gods, Apollo at Delphos, and
Jupiter at Olympus.
This affront against the gods the Athenians never hesitated at,
and yet they were accustomed to boast and glory, that the god
Apollo was their ancestor. The Lacedæmonians also, though they
were famous amongst all nations for the oracle of Delphos, and in
the most weighty affairs do consult there at this very day, yet they
never scrupled to join in the sacrilege with these impious robbers of
the temple.
But now the Phocians, who had three towns strongly fortified in
Boeotia, made an inroad into Bæotia, and, being joined by great
numbers of mercenaries, wasted and spoiled the enemy's country;
and, in several incursions and skirmishes, got the better, and so re-
turned. The Bæotians therefore, being overpressed with the bur-
then of the war, and having lost many of their soldiers, and besides,
being in great want of money, sent ambassadors to Philip, to crave
his assistance. This was very welcome news to the king, to see
that they were brought low, having long desired to have their Leuctra
courage curbed and tamed: however, he sent them a great number
of men, merely upon this account, lest he shoold be thought to be
careless in the matter concerning the spoiling of the temple. Then
1
Chap. X.
129
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the Phocians built a castle at a town called Abæ, near the temple of
Apollo; at which time, being attacked by the Baotians, some of them
presently fled, in disorder, to the neighbouring cities; others, to the
number of five hundred, got into the temple, and there perished.
Many other things happened to the Phocians at that time, as by a
divine hand; but that which was most remarkable was this_They
that fled into the temple thought themselves safe under the care and
protection of the gods; but it fell out quite contrary, for divine pro-
vidence brought condign punishment upon these sacrilegious persons.
There were many straw beds round about the temple, and it happened
that the fire left in the tents of those that fied caught hold of some of
them; upon which, on a sudden, the flame so mounted that it con-
sumed the temple, with all those that fled into it: for, it seems,
God would not spare these sacrilegious persons, notwithstanding all
their supplications.
Archias was then lord-chancellor of Athens, and Marcus Æmilius
and Titus Quinctius were invested with the consulship at Rome,
when the Phocian war (which had continued ten years) was ended in
the following manner:-_When both the Bæotians and Phocians
were brought low with the continual fatigues of the war, the Pho-
cians, by their ambassadors, craved aid of the Lacedæmonians, who
sent them a thousand heavy-armed men, under the command of Ar-
chidamus, the king of Sparta. In like manner the Baotians prayed
assistance from Philip; who thereupon, being joined by the Thessa-
liaus, entered Locris with a great army, where, finding Phalæcus
(restored again to his command) with a considerable body of merce-
a
naries, he prepared to fight him. Phalæcus was then at Nicæa, who,
finding himself not able to engage with Philip, sent ambassadors to
hiin to treat. Thereupon a peace was concluded upon these condi-
tions_That Phalæcus, with all those then with him, might march
away whither they thought fit. Whereupon Phalæcus, (after ratifi-
cation on both sides), without any further delay, departed with those
forces he had with him, to the number of eight thousand, into Pelo-
ponnesus: and the Phocians, now hopeless, gave up themselves into
the power of Philip.
The king having, without fighting, unexpectedly put an end to the
Sacred War, joined in a senate with the Thessalians and Bæotians;
in which it was decreed _That the great council of the Ampbic-
tyons should be assembled, to whose decision all matters should be
wholly referred.
By them afterwards it was decreed_That Philip and his posterity
should be received as members into the council of the Amphictyons,
VOL. 2. No. 42.
130
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Book XVI.
:
and should have the privilege of a double voice, as the Phocians
(whom he conquered) had before: that the walls of three cities in
Phocis should be demolished: and, that the Phocians should never
after have any thing to do with the temple, or be members of the
court of the Amphictyons: that they should never be possessed of
horse or arms, until they had made restitution to the oracle of the
money they had sacrilegiously taken away. Moreover, that the
exiles of Phocis, and whoever they were that were partners with them
in the sacrilege, should be accounted accursed, and driven out of
every place. Likewise, that all the cities of the Phocians should be
razed to the ground, and turned into villages, every one of them not
to contain above fifty houses, and not to be less than one furlong
distant from each other; yet that the Phocians should keepjeif
lands, but should pay a tribute to the oracle every year of
talents, until they had paid the sum entered in the registers at the
time when the sacrilege was committed: that Philip, with the
Baotians and Thessalians, should set forth the Pythian games, be-
cause the Corinthians were partners in the impiety with the Pho-
cians: that the Amphictyons, together with Philip, should break in
pieces, upon the rocks, all the arms of the Phocians and mercenaries,
and then buru the remains: and lastly, that they should deliver up
all the horse.
When they had despatched this, they made laws and orders for the
Testoring of the oracle to its former state, and all other matters re-
lating to religion and the public peace, and the advancing of amity
and concord amongst the Grecians. All these decrees of the
Amphictyons were allowed and confirmed by Philip, who carried
himself towards them with great respect in all things, and then
marched back with his army into Macedonia, and not only pur-
chased honour by his piety and martial conduct, but made many ad-
vances towards the future enlargement of his dominions: for he had
long coveted to gain the sovereign command of all Greece, and to
make war upon the Persians, which indeed at length happened.
But of these things we shall hereafter give a particular account in
their due time.
Let us now, therefore, return to what properly is an appendant,
and, of course, annexed to the precedent history: yet we judge it
our duty first to relate the judgments inflicted by the gods upon the
sacrilegious robbers of the oracle; for vengeance overtook all of them
in general, not only those who were the chief ringleaders, but even
them that had the least hand in the sacrilege.
Philomelus, the first and chief contriver of seizing the temple, by a
1
Chap. X.
131
DIODORUS SICULUS.
partain fate of war was brought into such a strait, as that he cast
mself headlong from the top of a rock.
His brother Onomarchus, having taken upon him the command
If the heartless and discouraged army, was afterwards, with his
Phocians and mercenaries, totally routed in Thessaly, and he himself
aken and crucified.
Phayllus, the third, who spoiled the oracle of the greatest part of
its sacred treasures, that he might not altogether escape punishment,
vasted away by a lingering disease*.
Phalæcus, the last of them, having robbed the temple of all that
was left, wandered up and down in great terror, and in divers hazards
and troubles, for a long time together; pot in any favour to him more
than the rest of his confederates in wickedness, but that he might be
longer tormented, and that the vengeance executed might be more
remarkable to all wherever he went. After his flight, whereby he
escaped being a prisoner, at the first he remained, with his merce-
naries, about Peloponnesus, and maintained his soldiers with the
money he had sacrilegiously got into his hands from the temple.
Afterwards he hired some great transport-ships at Corinth, and, hav-
ing four other small vessels of his own, he prepared for a voyage
into Italy and Sicily, hoping either to possess himself of some city in
those parts, or that he and his men might be employed by some or
other as mercenaries.
• There was at that time a war broken out between the Lucanians
and Tarentines. He pretended to the soldiers that went along with
him, that he was sent for by the Sicilians and Italians; but, when he
came into the open sea, some of the soldiers who were on hoard in
the largest vessel, with Phalæcus, discoursed among themselves, and
declared their suspicions one to another_That it was but a pretence,
and that none had sent for them: for they saw nu commanders go
along with him, who were sent from any that desired their assist-
ance; and they perceived that the voyage undertaken was long and
tedious, and full of hazards: and therefore, concluding that Phalæcus
was no longer to be credited, (dreading the expedition beyond sea),
they conspired, especially the officers of the mercenaries, and, with
their drawn swords, so threatened both Phalæcus and the pilot, that
they compelled them to tack about, and return: the like being done
in the other ships, they all came back, and arrived in Peloponnesus;
and, being rendezvoused at Malea, a promontory of Laconia, they
therefound the Gnossian ambassadors, who accidentally were come
bither to list some foreign soldiers. After some discourse had passed
• A consumption.
132
Book XVI,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
between them and Phalacus, and the other offieers, the pay in hand
was so large, that all of them sailed away with the ambassadors to
Crete; and, having; landed at Gnossus*, they presently took the city
Lyctus at the first assault. But unexpected assistance came in sud-
denly to the expulsed Lyctians: for the Tarentines being at that time
engaged in a war with the Lucanians, sent ambassadors to the Lace-
dæmonians, from whom they were descended, to supply them with
auxiliaries; upon which the Spartans, upon the account of their
kindred, were ready to assist them; and to that end had both naval
and land forces ready, under the command of Archidamus the king
of Sparta. And being now ready to set sail for Italy, at that very
time came some from the Lyctians, earnestly desiring that they would
help them in the first place. The Lacedæmonians agreed to it, and
passed over to Crete, where they routed Phalacus and his mercena-
ries, and recovered the country for the Lyctians.
Then Archidamus made for Italy, and there assisted the Taren-
tines, and was killed in fight, behaving himself with great valour
and resolution. He was an excellent commander, and of good re-
putation in other respects; but ill spoken of, by reason of his join-
ing with the Phocians, as the principal promoter and author of the
seizing of the temple and city of Delphos. He was king of Lace-
dæmon three-and-twenty years, and his son Agis succeeded him, and
continued fifteen years.
Afterwards all the mercenaries under Archidamus, and who were
concerned in the robbing of the oracle, were killed by the Lucani-
ans.
But Phalæcus being driven out of Lyctus, besieged Sidont;
and while he was preparing his engines to batter the walls, and mak-
ing his approaches to the city, the engines were set on fire, and con-
sumed by a thunderbolt from heaveu, and a great number of the sol-
a
diers who endeavoured to save them, were consumed by fire from
heaven, amongst whom was Phalæcus himself: though there be some.
who report, that he was run through the body by one of his own sol-
diers whom he had provoked. Those soldiers that were left, were
hired by the Elian exiles, and transported into Peloponnesus, who
assisted them against their own countrymen. But the Arcadians,
who assisted the Elians, routed them, and killed a great number of
the mercenaries, and took fuur thousand prisoners; which the Ar-
cadians and Eliaus divided amongst themselves; and the Arcadians
sold those under the spear that fell to their share: but the Elians put
all theirs to the sword, for their impiety in robbing of the oracle.
And in this manner all the sacrilegious robbers, and those that took
Or Cnosus, a city in Crete. Lyctus, another city in Crete.
+ A city of Crete.
Chap. X.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
133
part with them, met due punishment for their wickedness. Like-
wise the most famous cities that shared with them in their impiety,
being afterwards conquered by Antipater, lost both their authority
and liberty at once. Moreover, the wives of the most principal
men of Phocis, who had decked themselves with necklaces of gold
robbed from Delphos, met with the deserved punishment of their
impiety. For, one that wore the chain of Helen, turning whore,
stained all the glory of her beauty by prostituting herself to every
filthy wretch. Another who adorned herself with the ornaments of
Eriphyle, in a fury of madness and rage, had her house set on fire
by her eldest son, and she and her habitation consumed together.
In this manner (as we said before) those that dared thus to despise
and contemn the deity, were overtaken by divine vengeance. On
the contrary, Philip, who appeared in defence of the oracle, eves
prospering from that time, for his piety, was at last declared su-
preme governor of all Greece, and gained the largest kingdom in
Europe. And now, having given an account of the Sacred War,
so far forth as we judged necessary, we shall return to things of ano-
ther nature.
In Sicily, the Syracusans, labouring under intestine seditions, and
enslaved under the tyranny of many that lorded over them, sent am-
bassadors to Corinth, to desire that a general should be despatched to
them, who might take charge of the city, and give a check to the
ambition of such as sought to tyrannise. Upon which, it seemed
very just and reasonable to the Corinthians to help those who were
originally descended from them; and therefore they decreed to
send them Timoleon, the son of Timodemus, wbo was accounted
the most valiant and expert commander among them; in short,
he was a person every way virtuous: but there was one thing re-
markable happened to him, which much forwarded his being chosen
general.
Timophanes, his brother, the richest and most daring man among
the Corinthians, had some time before given evident signs of his
ambition to aspire to the sovereignty. For, about that time, having
armed and got together a company of lewd fellows, and such as were
in debt, and needy, he went up and down the market-place, seeming
not to have the least thoughts of the principality, but in truth acting
in the mean time as an absolute tyrant. But Timoleon, who abhorred
monarchy, at the first advised his brother to forbear, and lay aside
such projects and designs: but he, being not only regardless of what
was said to him, but rather growing every day more audacious and
peremptory, Timoleon, because he could not work upon him by
134
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
words, killed him in the market-place. Upon which a great tumult
was raised, and the citizens, upon the commission of so horrid an
act, running in and flocking together, the matter came to a faction
and sedition in the city: for some declared, that Timoleon, who had
imbrued his hands in the blood of a citizen, should undergo the
punishment due to his offence by the law; but others were of a
contrary opinion, and said, that he deserved rather to be commended,
as one that had despatched a tyrant out of the way.
A senate therefore was called, and the matter brought before the
court, where his enemies most bitterly inveighed against him; but
those who were more moderate and favourable, consulted together to
preserve him. And, while the business remained in debate, not yet
decided, the ambassadors from Syracuse arrived, and, imparting their
embassy to the court, they very seasonably desired a general to be
sent them: upon which the senate determined to send Timoleon;
and, that he might the better behave himself, a most strange pro-
posal was offered him, to choose as he pleased: for they let him
know-
_That, if he carried himself well towards the Syracusans in
his command, then they would judge him to be one that had killed a
tyrant; but, if he were covetous and oppressive, he should be con-
demned as a murderer of his brother.
Timoleon therefore, not so much out of fear of what was threatened
by the senate, as excited by the principles of his own innate virtue,
managed affairs in Sicily with great honour and reputation to him.
self, and advantage to the Sicilians. For he subdued the Carthagi-
nians, rebuilt the Grecian cities which were destroyed by the barba-
sians, and restored all Sicily to its liberty. Lastly, having gained
Syracuse, and the Greek desolated cities, he filled them all with in-
habitants, and made them very populous. But we shall treat of these
matters in their proper place, and come to that part which is coherent
to the history,
Chap. XI.
135
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. XI.
Timoleon's expedition into Sicily. The Carthaginian army in
Sicily. Dionysius returns into Syracuse: is beaten by Hicetas.
Hicetas gains Syracuse. Timoleon's escape from Rhegium.
Timoleon routs Hicetas, and gains Syracuse. Philip invades
the Illyrians. Dionysius expelled. Timoleon makes good laws,
Philip invades Thrace.
NOW Eubulus was chief magistrate at Athens, and Marcus Fabius
and Serulius Sulpitius were consuls at Rome. At this time Timo-
leon the Corinthian, advanced by the Syracusans to the sovereign
command of all their forces, prepared for his voyage into Sicily, and
loosed from Corinth with four gallies, manned with seven hundred
mercenaries, and attended with three skiffs. In his passage he was
joined by three vessels more from the Leucadians and Corcyrians,
and so with ten sail passed over the Ionian sea.
In this voyage an
unusual and remarkable thing happened to Timoleon, the providence
of the gods seeming to favour his undertaking, and thereby to point
out the future fame and glory of his actions. For, all the night,
,
a light like a burning torch in the heavens went before him, till the
fleet came to the coasts of Italy: for he was before told at Corinth,
by the priests of Ceres and Proserpina, that in the night the goddesses
appeared to them, and told them, that they would sail along with
Timoleon to the island that was peculiarly consecrated to them.
Timoleon therefore, and all those with him, were very cheerful, un-
der the apprehension that the gods favoured their enterprise; and
thereupon Timoleon dedicated one of the best of his ships to the
goddesses, and ordered that it should be called the Sacred Ship* of
Ceres and Proserpina. And now, when the fleet came safe as far as
Metapontum in Italy, there arrived a galley which had the Carthagi-
nian ambassadors on board, who, upon a conference with Timo-
leon, charged him, upon bis peril, not to begin any war, or so much
as to set his foot upon Sicily. But he, being encouraged by them of
Rhegium, who promised to join with him, departed with all baste
from Metapontum, designing by his speed to prevent the report of
his coming: for he was in great fear lest the Carthaginians, who were
much stronger at sea, should block up his passage into Sicily. There-
fore he made off with all speed to Rhegium.
* Or called Ceres and Proserpina.
136
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
The Carthaginians, having a little before received intelligence that
a great war was likely to break out through all Sicily, carried them-
selves with all civility towards the confederate cities; and, putting
an end to all quarrels, entered into leagues of amity and friendship
with the princes of the island, especially with Hicetas, general of
the Syracusans, who was the most potent. At length the Carthagi-
nians, having raised a great number of forces both by sea and land,
transported them into Sicily, under the command of Hanno, their
general. They had with them a hundred and fifty sail of long ships,
a land-army of fifty thousand men, three hundred chariots, and two
thousand carts or carriages, drawn by two horses each; and, besides
these, a great number of arms of all sorts, and engines of battery,
and an infinite store of cort, provision, and all other things necessary
for war. The first city they attacked was Entella; and, having
wasted and spoiled the lands round about, they shut up the inhabi-
tants by a close siege. The Campanians possessed the city at that
time, and, being terrified at the multitude of their enemies, sent for
aid to the other cities, who hated the Carthaginians; but none of
them came in to their assistance, except those of Galeria, who sent
them a thousand armed men, who were intercepted by the Cartha-
ginians, and every man cut off. The Campanians, who inhabited
Ætna, at first prepared to help them of Entella, upon the account
of their consanguinity; but, hearing of the slaughter of the Galerians,
they judged it more adviseable to sit still. Dionysius at that time
had regained his former sovereignty over the Syracusans. Hicetas
therefore led a great army thither, and encamped at Olympus, forti-
fying himself with a breast-work and a trench, and drew up against
Dionysius, then acting as a tyrant in the city. But he protracted
the siege for some time, through want of provision, and marched
away to Leontium, from whence he first moved. But Dionysius
pursued him, and fell upon his rear, which occasioned the whole
army to engage. For Hicetas wheeled about, fought, and routed
him, killing three thousand of his mercenaries upon the spot, and
,
putting the rest to flight; and he pursued them so hotly, that he fell
pell-mell with him into the city, and so possessed himself of the
whole city of Syracuse, except the Island. And thus went matters
between Hicetas and Dionysius at this time.
But Timoleon, arriving at Rhegium the third day after the taking
of Syracuse, lay with his fleet in the port next to the city. At that
time came into the port twenty Carthaginian gallies. The Rhegians,
favouring Timoleon, called an assembly, and proposed terms of
compounding matters: so that the Carthaginians, supposing Timo-
leon would be persuaded to return home, were not careful to place
,
Chap. XI.
137
DIODORUS SICULUS.
sufficient guards: Timoleon therefore himself (not giving the least
ground to suspect his flight) kept close to the court, but ordered,
that nine of his ships should set sail, and make away with all the
haste they could. In the mean time, while the thoughts of the Car-
thaginians were intent upon the speeches of the Rhegians, which
were lengthened out purposely and by design, Timoleon privately
withdrew himself, and made to the ship that was left; and, hoisting
sail, he thus escaped. The Carthaginians, thus deluded, endea-
voured to pursue him; but, because he had got too far off, and night
approached, Timoleon, with his whole fleet, arrived safe at Tauro-
miniun. Andromachus, the prince of that city, (who always was a
friend to the Syracusans), courteously received the refugees, and was
greatly serviceable to them in their avoiding of the pursuers. Hicetas
afterwards, with an army of five thousand men, came against Adranum,
and encamped near the city. But Timoleon, drawing some regi-
ments out of Taurominium, marched from thence, having with him
at the most but a thousand men, And, going out of the town in the
twilight, he reached Adranum the next day: there he fell upon
the Hicetians at the very time they happened to be at meat, and
broke in upon their camp, and killed three hundred, and took six
hundred prisoners, and possessed himself of all the camp. To this
stratagem he added another: for he made straight away with all speed
to Syracuse, and, despatching his march with great activity, he broke
into the city on a sudden, having, by the swiftness of his march, ar-
rived there before those that fled. And these were the transactions
of this year
Lycisco executed the office of archon at Athens, and Marcus Va-
Jerius, and Marcus Popilius, were created Roman consuls, when the
hundred and ninth Olympiad was celebrated, wherein Aristolocus
the Athenian won the course. This was likewise the first time
that the Romans entered into a league with the Carthaginians. In
Caria, Idrieus, prince of the Carians, died, after he had reigned seven
years, whom Ada (both his wife and sister) succeeded, and governed
four years.
In Sicily, Timoleon, being strengthened with the confederacy of
them of Adranum and Tyndaris, greatly increased his army. In the
mean time there was great confusion in Syracuse, because Dionya
sius had got possession of the Island, Hicetas held the Achradina
and the new city, and Timoleon the rest of the city; and lastly, the
Carthaginians had entered the great harbour with a fleet of an buns
a
dred and fifty sail, and lay near encamped with an army of fifty
thousand men. And now Timoleon was in great perplexity, being
environed by so many enemies, when on a sudden the tables were
Voy. 2. No, 42,
138
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
turned. First, Marcus, prince of Catana, with a great army, came
in to the assistance of Timoleon. Afterwards many of the forts and
castles (out of a love of liberty) sided with him. And presently the
a
Corinthians sent ten gallies full of soldiers, and pay for them, to
Syracuse.
By these supplies Timoleon took heart, and the Carthaginians were
so discouraged and affrighted, that they very imprudently sailed out
of the barbour, and drew off their whole army, and marched away inta
their own territories. Hicetas being thus stripped of all assistance,
Timoleon, now stronger than the citizens, possessed himself of all
Syracuse. Presently after he received Messana (which had sided with
the Carthaginians) into his protection. And this was the state of
Sicily at that time.
In Macedonia, Philip, who bore an hereditary hatred against the
Illyrians, and had with them an everlasting controversy, invaded their
country with a powerful army, and wasted and spoiled their lands,
and, after the taking of many towns, returned with rich booty into
Macedonia. Afterwards, making an expedition ivto Thessaly, he
drore all the tyrants out of the cities, and, hy this means, gained
the hearts of the Thessalians: for, by gaining them to be his allies,
he hoped easily to procure an interest in all Greece; and, by the
issue, it appeared sa afterwards: for the bordering Grecians presently,
in imitation of the Thessalians, very readily entered into a league
with Philip.
Pythodorus was now lord-chancellor of Athens, and Caius Plau-
tius, and Titus Manlius, executed the consular dignity at Rome.
At this time Dionysius, being brought into great extremity of dan-
ger, and in a terrible fright, was wrought upon by Timoleon to sur-
render the castle, and, upon condition of abdicating the govern-
ment, had liberty safely to depart to Peloponnesus, with all his goods
and moveables,
And thus he, through sloth and cowardice, lost this so eminent
and famous a principality, bound fast (as they used to term it) with
an adamant, and spent the rest of his days in a poor and mean con-
dition*; whose change of fortune, and course of life, exhibit a clear
example to those who, like fools, boast in the times of prosperity:
for he, who a little before had four hundred gallies at command, not
long after, in a small skiff, was conveyed to Corinth, and became a
spectacle, to admiration, of a wonderful change. Timoleon, having
possessed himself of the Island and castles lately held by Dionysius,
demolished all the forts and palaces of the tyrant throughout the island,
а
. It is said, he kept a private school at Corinth till he was very old.- lust. lib. 21.
Chap. XI.
139
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
and freed all the towns from the garrisons; and he continually em-
ployed himself in framing of laws, and instituted such as were most
proper for the administration of the democracy: and, in his making
such as related to private contracts, he had a special regard to equality
and mutual recompence. Moreover, he appointed a chief magis-
trate to be yearly chosen, whom the Syracusans call the Amphipolus*
of Jupiter Olympus; and the first Amphipolus was Callimenes. From
hence arose the custom amongst the Syracusans of noting their years
by the respective governments of these magistrates, which continues
to this very time of writing this history, and, though the frame of
the government be now changed: for, since the Romans imparted the
laws of their city to the Sicilians, the office of the Amphipolus
has still continued, being now grown old, and having been executed
above three hundred years. And thus stood the affairs of Sicily at
that time.
In Macedonia, Philip, having persuaded all the Greek cities in
Thrace to concord amongst themselves, made an expedition against
the Thracians. For Cersobleptes, the Thracian king; was continually
destroying the Greek cities in the Hellespont, and harassing and
spoiling the country. Therefore Philip, to put a check to the designs
and progress of the barbarians, invaded them with a great army, and
was so victorious, that he forced them to pay a tenth, as a tribute, to
the kingdom of Macedonia. And, by building strong towns in con-
venient places, he curbed the insolence of the Thracians. The Greek
cities therefore, being freed from their fears, with great eagerness
entered into a league of confederacy with Philip.
As to writers, Theopompus of Chios composed an history of the
acts of Philip, in three books, in which are i::terwoven the affairs of
Sicily: for, beginning with the sovereignty of Dionysius the elder, he
comprebended an account of the transactions of fifty years, and ended
with the expulsion of Dionysius the younger. These three books are
from the forty-first to the forty-third year of the fifty years.
* Sorvant of Jupiter Olympus.
140
Book XVI
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP: XII.
The acts of Timoleon in Sicily. The preparations of the Cartha-
ginians against T'imoleon. The remarkable sicge of Perinthus
by Philip. Pexodorus expels his brother Adam from the princi-
pality in Caria. Byzantium besieged by Philip.
WHEN the chief magistracy of Athens was in the hands of Sosi-
genes; and Marcus Valerius, and Marcus Publius, executed the office
of consuls at Rome, Arybas, king of the Molossians, died, after he
had reigned ten years, leaving the kingdom to his son Æacidas, the
father of Pyrrhus; but, by the help of Philip of Macedon, Alexander,
the brother of Olympias, succeeded Arybas.
lo Sicily, Timoleon marched against the Leontines, (to whom
Hicetas had joined himself, with a great army, and in the first place
besieged the new city (as it was called). But the garrison being
very strong, they easily repulsed the assailants; and thereupon he
raised the siege, without effecting any thing. Then he made for
Engyum, (at that time under the tyranny of Leptines), and plied it
with continual assaults, being very earnest and intent to set them free,
by the expulsion of Leptines.
While Timoleon was thus employed, Hicetas marched away from
Leontium with all his forces, and besieged Syracuse; but, having
lost there a great part of his army, he hastened back to Leontium.
Timoleon at length sq terrified Leptines, that, under the terms of
safe conduct, he was sent away to Peloponnesus; and, by these ba-
nishments, Timoleon exposed to the Grecians the trophies of his
victory over the tyrants. And forasmuch as Apolloniades was like-
wise under the power of Leptines, he received the Apollonians into his
protection, and restored them, as well as the Engyans, to their liberty.
But being in great want of money, so that he knew not how to pay
the soldiers, he ordered a thousand armed men, commanded by ex-
pert officers, to make incursions into the Carthaginian territories.
These harassed the country far and near, and got together abundance
of rich plunder and spoil, and brought it to Timoleon, who exposed
all to public sale, and raised a vast sum of money, whereby he paid
the soldiers for a long time beforehand. Presently after, he pos-
sessed himself of Entella, and put to death fifteen of the citizens,
who adhered to the Carthaginians, and restored the rest to their
liberty. Timoleon growing every day in reputation for his valour
Chap. XII.
141
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and conduct, all the Greek cities throughout Sicily readily submitted to
him, and he as readily set them at liberty to govern by their own laws.
Many cities likewise of the Sicani, Sicilians, and other countries sub-
ject to the Carthaginians, sent presently their ambassadors to him, in
order to be received into a league, and to be his confederates.
But the senate and people of Carthage perceiving that their off-
cers were sluggish and inactive in the management of the war, de-
termined to send over others with a considerable additional force;
and to that end, with all despatch, they raised out of their own city,
and from among the Africans, all such as they judged able to bear
arms for this expedition. And besides, they took care to be pro-
vided with a sufficient stock of money, and listed mercenaries out of
Spain, Gaul, and Liguria*. They fitted out likewise a great navy,
.
both of long ships and others, for carrying provision, and in all other
respects were so careful and diligent, that nothing was wanting that
was necessary.
At the time when Nicomachus was chief magistrate at Athens,
and Caius Martius, and Titus Manlius Torquatus, were Roman con-
suls, Phocion the Athenian subdued and expelled Clitarchus prince
of Eretria, whom Philip had set over that city.
In Caria, Pexodorust, the younger brother, expelled Adam out
of the principality, and reigned five years, to the time of Alexan-
der's expedition into Asia. But the power of Philip still increasing,
he marched with an army against Perinthust, which favoured the A-
thenians, and much obstructed him in his designs. He pushed on
the siege therefore with all eagerness, and to that end incessantly
battered the walls with his engines, from time to time relieving those
that were tired with fresh men: he made likewise approaches with
towers four score cubits high, mounting much above the walls,where-
by he greatly annoyed the besieged, being so high above them: he so
plied them likewise with his battering rams, and undermined the
foundations of the walls to that degree, that a great part of them
tumbled down. But the Perinthians defended themselves with that
valour, that they speedily raised up a new wall; upon which there were
such disputes and fighting, the one to gain, and the other to defend
the wall, that it was to be admired.
In the mean time, while they were thus eagerly contending on
both sides, Philip being well furnished with shot, mightily galled them
upon the wall. But the Perinthians, though they lost many men
every day, were reinforced with supplies of men, darts, and shot,
from Byzantium; so that thereby becoming of equal force with the
In Italy, now the straits of Genoa.
Pizodarus.
6 A city in Eubwa, Qow Negropont.
142
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
enemy, they took courage, and valiantly stood to it for the preserva-
tion of their country.
However, the king remitted nothing of his former heat and dili-
gence; and dividing his army into several battalions, girt the city
round, and relieving his men by turns, assaulted the walls continu-
ally night and day. He had an army of thirty thousand men, and
a vast multitude of darts and engines, both for battery and other
purposes; so that the besieged were very sorely pressed. The siege
having now continued long, and many of the townsmen killed and
#ounded, and provisions growing scanty, the town was on the point
of being surrendered; when fortune favouring the distressed, hand-
ed to them an unexpected deliverance. For the growing power of
the king being noised abroad throughout Asia, the king of Persia,
who now began to suspect the greatness of Philip, commanded by
his letters the lords lieutenants of the sea-coasts to assist the Perin-
thians with what forces they could. Upon which, they all unani-
mously sent to Perinthus a great number of mercenary soldiers,
plenty of coin, sufficient provisions, weapons, and all other things
necessary for war. The Byzantians likewise sent thither a com-
mander, and the best of their soldiers. The forces now equal un
both sides, and the war revived, there was now again so sharp an en-
counter, both to gain and defend the city, as that none could possibly
exceed; for Philip, by the continual battering of the rams, brought
down part of the wall, and by his shot forced the besieged from the
bulwarks, so that he made his way, with a strong body of men,
through the ruins of the wall, and scaled the bulwarks that were be-
fore cleared of them that should have defended them. The matter
being disputed hand to hand at the sword's point, death and wounds
followed, inasmuch as the rewards of victory put life into the valour
of both parties : for the Macedonians being assured they should have
the plunder of a rich city, and likewise be honourably rewarded by
Philip, were resolved valiantly to undergo all hardships whatsoever.
The besieged, on the other hand, having as it were before their eyes
the miseries attending a place taken by storm, with generous and
undaunted resolution shunned nothing of hazard for their own pre-
servation, and that of their country. The situation of the place con-
tributed much all along to the besieged for baffling of the enemy:
for Perinthus is situated on the sea-side, upon a rising neck of land,
in a peninsula stretched out a furlong in length: the houses are close
together, and very high; for one stands above another, according to
the ascent of the hill; and the form of the city represents, as it were,
a theatre. And therefore, though a large breach bad been made in
the walls, yet they within were but little prejudiced thereby; for the
Chap. XIII.
143
DIODORUS SICULUS.
strait and narrow passages being barricadoed, the higher houses were
in stead, and as advantageous as a wall. Philip therefore having
gained the wall, after much toil and hazard, found another far
stronger, made by the situation of the houses: and besides all these
disadvantages, he saw that every thing necessary for war was readily,
and in great abundance, sent to them from Byzantium; therefore
he divided his army into two bodies; the one half he left with the
best of his commanders to carry on the siege, and with the rest be
marches speedily away to Byzantium, and lays close siege to it on a
sudden. Upon which the townsmen were put into great fear and
perplexity, having before sent away their soldiers, arms, and other
things necessary for war, to the Perinthians. These were the things
done at Perinthus and Byzantium at that time. Here Ephorus, one
of the writers, ends bis history with the siege of Perinthus. In his
memoirs he comprehends the affairs both of the Greeks and barba-
rians, from the ruturn of the Heraclidæ*, for the space of almost
seven hundred and fifty years; and divides his history into thirty books,
to every one of which he adjoins a preface. Diyllus, the Athenian,
continues this history of Ephorus, treating of the actions of the Gre-
cians and barbarians to the death of Philip.
CHAP. XIII.
The Athenians aid Byzantium. Philip raises the siege. The
Carthaginians transport forces into Sicily. The remarkable
victory of Timoleon over the Carthaginians. The acts of Ti-
moleon in Sicily. The works of Hiero in Sicily.
WHEN Theophrastus was lord chancellor at Athens, and Marcus
Valerius, and Aulus Cornelius Roman consuls, the hundred and tenth
olympiad began, in which Anticles the Athenian was victor. Philip
then besieging Byzantiam, the Athenians judging he had broken the
peace they had made with him, forthwith fitted out a great fleet a-
gainst him in aid of the Byzantines; whose example those of Chios,
Coos, and Rhodes, and other Grecians followed, and sent auxiliaries
to the same place. Whereupon, Philip being startled at the forces of
the Grecians, raised both his sieges, and made peace with the Athe-
nians and the rest of the Grecians that were in arms against him.
This return was about the time the ark was taken by the Philistincs, eighty years
after the ruin of Troy.
144
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
In the mean time, the Carthaginians, after their great preparations,
transport their forces into Sicily, which with those that were before
in the island, amounted to seventy thousand foot; and horse, chariots,
and waggons, no fewer than ten thousand. They had also a navy of
two hundred men of war, and above a thousand transport ships for
the conveying of horses, arms, and provisions. Timoleon, though
he was informed of this great preparation, yet was not at all affright-
ed with the barbarians, though his army was but small. He was at
this time engaged still.in war with Hicetas, but at length agreed the
matter, and, by the accession of his forces, greatly increased his army.
And now he judged it most for his advantage to transfer the war with
the Carthaginians into their own territory; by this means to preserve
the country of his confederates, and, on the other side, by waste and
spoil, to weaken the enemy: to this end, he forthwith mustered his
army, consisting of Syracusans, mercenaries, and other confederates;
and, in a general assembly, by a pithy oration, advised them to be
courageous, for that all now lay at stake: which was received with
general acclamation, and all pressed him without delay to be led forth
against the enemy. Whereupon he advanced, not having with him
above twelve thousand men: but as soon as he came into the con-
fines of Agrigentum, there arose a sudden mutiny in his camp; for
a mercenary soldier called Thrasius, a bold and impudent fellow,
none exceeding him in that respect, (lately a companion of those
Phocians who robbed the temple of Delphos), committed a fact
agreeable to his former villanics: for whereas most of them who had
a hand in that sacrilege were overtaken by divine vengeance, (as be-
fore related), this fellow only seemed to liave escaped; and at that
time endeavoured to persuade the mercenaries to a defection: for he
bawled it out_That Timoleon was crazed and distracted, and that
he was leading the soldiers to certain and unavoidable destruction:
the number of the Carthaginian army (he said) was six times more
than they; and so well furnished with all things necessary for war,
that none could compare with them; and yet he assured them of
victory, playing away the lives of the soldiers, as it were, at dice, be-
cause he was not able to pay them their arrears, which had been ad-
vancing for a long time together: he persuaded them therefore tą
return to Syracuse, and demand their pay, and not follow Timoleon
in that desperate expedition.
This discourse was not unpleasant to the mercenaries; and while
they were just ready to revolt, Timolcon, by entreaties and large pro-
mises, at length prevailed and put an end to the mutiny. However,
a thousand men followed Thrasius, whose punishment was deferred
for the present. And in the mean time Timoleon wrote to his friends
:
Chap. XII.
145
DIODORUS SICULUS.
at Syracuse to receive the deserters courteously, and pay the mer-
cenaries their wages; and so by this means he altogether extinguish-
ed the fire of sedition; but excluded those obstinate mutineers from
the glory of a famous victory.
In the mean time, having with fair words reduced the rest to their
former obedience, he marched towards the enemy, who lay encamp-
ed not far off. Then he called the army together, and encouraged
them to the battle, by setting forth and aggravating the slotb and
cowardice of the Carthaginians, and putting them in mind of the
successes of Gelon. And when all with one voice cried out for
fighting without delay with the barbarians, at that very time passed
by some carriage-horses laden with bundles of parsley to strew in the
tents. Timoleon thereupon declared, that it was an omen of victory;
for, (as he said), the crown at the Isthmian games* was made up of
the same herb. Hereupon, the soldiers, by the command of Timo-
leon, made themselves crowns of parsley; and with these round their
heads, with great joy, marched against the enemy, as if the gods had
assured them of certain victory; as by the issue it appeared to be:
for beyond all expectation they overcame their adversaries, not only
by their own valour, but by the special help and assistance of the
gods. For Timoleon, with a well-appointed body of men, marched
down from the tops of certain hills to the river; and upon a sudden,
being himself in the middle of the battle, attacked ten thousand of
the barbarians that were but newly passed over. Upon which, there
was a very sharp engagement, in which the valour and activity of the
Greeks so far prevailed, that a mighty slaughter was made among
the barbarians. Wbilst those that first passed over took to their heels
and fled, the whole Carthaginian army came over the river in order
to repair their loss. Hereupon the battle was renewed; and while
the Carthaginians were with their multitude hemming in the Gre-
cians round, on a sudden, there arose such a violent storm of hail,
thunder, and lightning, with a raging tempest of furious winds, which
beat upon the backs of the Grecians, but fell foul upon the faces of
the barbarians: so that Timoleon's army with ease endured this tem-
pestuous shock; but the Carthaginians, not able to bear the pressure
of so many adversaries, being at the same time hewn down by the
Grecians, quitted the field and fled: and the whole body made to the
river, where both foot, horse, and chariots, were in such confusion
mixed one amongst another, and trodden under foot one by another,
and pierced through their bodies by one another's swords and spears,
that a miserable slaughter was made without any possibility of re-
* Games in honour of Neptune, celebrated every fifth year, in the Isthmus near
Corinth,
VOL. 2. No, 42.
146
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.*
lief. Others being forced in heaps into the river by the enemy's horse,
and pursued close at their backs, after receiving many wounds, there
perished. And many, though they were vever touched by the enemy's
swords, yet, through fear, and the throng and difficulties of passage
over the river, being pressed in heaps one upon another, there breathed
out their last. And that which contributed not a little to the common
destruction, the river was swolen to that excessive height, that many
(especially such as attempted to swim over the water with their arms)
were drowved. In conclusion, two thousand five hundred, who
made up the sacred brigade of the Carthaginians, and for valour and
the glory of their arms, and greatness of their estates, excelled alt
the rest, fought valiantly, and were cut off every man. Of the rest
of the common soldiers there were slain at least ten thousand, and
above fifteen thousand taken prisoners. Many of the chariots being
broken in pieces in the fight, only two hundred fell into the hands of
the Grecians; but all the bag and baggage. The greatest part of the
arms were lost in the river: but a thousand brigandines*, and ten
thousand shields, were brought into the tent of Timoleon; of which
some were hung up in the temples at Syracuse, and others distribut-
ed among the confederates: others were sent to Corinth, and ordered
to be dedicated to Neptune. And although very rich spoils were
taken, (for the Carthaginians abounded in gold and silver, platet,
and other furniture of great value, according to the grandeur and
riches of their country), yet he gave all to the soldiers, as the reward
of their valour. The Carthaginians that escaped, with much ado
got to Lilybæum, in such fear and consternation, that they durst-not
go on board their ships, in order to return to Africa; as if, through
the anger of the gods, they should be swallowed up in the Lilybæary
sea.
•
As soon as the news of this overthrow was brought to Carthage,
their spirits were mightily broken, and they expected that Timoleon
would invade them with his army upon the first opportunity: there-
fore, they forthwith recalled Gisco, the brother of Hanno, from
his banishment, and being a stout man, and an experienced soldier,
created him general. But looking upon it not advisable for the fu-
ture to venture the lives of the citizens, they resolved to hire soldiers
out of other nations, and especially from among the Grecians, not
doubting but that many would list themselves, by reason of the large
pay promised by the rich Carthaginians. They sent likewise am-
bassadors into Sicily, with orders to strike up a peace upon any terms
whatsoever.
After the end of this year, Lysimachides was created chief goves.
* Coats of mail
+ As Baggons, cui's, &c
Chap. XIII.
147
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
nor of Athens, and Quintus Servilius, and Marcus Rutilius, bore the
office of consuls at Rome. Then Timoleon, as soon as he returned
to Syracuse, in the first place expelled those as traitors out of the
aty, who had deserted him through the instigation of Thrasius.
These being transported into Italy, they seized upon a sea-port town
of the Brettii*, and plundered it. Upon which the Brettii were
so enraged, that they forthwith came against them with a great army,
took the town' by storm, and put every man of them to the sword.
And such was the miserable end of these deserters of Timoleon, as
the just punishment of their former villany.
Afterwards he took Posthumius the tyrant, and put him to death,
who had infested the seas with his piracies, and came at that time into
the port of Syracuse as a friend. He received likewise with all de-
monstrations of kindness five thousand persons, whom the Corin-
thians bad sent over to plant new colonies. The Carthaginians now,
by their ambassadors, having earnestly sued to him for peace, he
granted it to them upon these terms_That all the Greek cities
should be set free; that the river Lycus should be the bounds be-
tween the territories of both parties; and, that the Carthaginians
should not for the future assist any of the tyrants against the Syra-
cusans. Having afterwards subdued Hicetas, he ordered him an ho.
nourable burial:.and took Ætna by storm, and put all the Campa-
nians to the sword. And he so terrified Nicodemus the tyrant of
the Centuripiaus, that he fled out of the city. Then he forced
Apolloniades, who lorded it over them of Argyra, to abdicate the go-
vernment; and the inhabitants thus freed, he enrolled them as citi-
zens of Syracuse. To conclude, Laving rooted up all the tyrants
throughout the whole island, and freed the cities from their oppres-
sion, he received them all into his protection, and they became his
confederates. Then he caused proclamation to be made throughout
all Greece That the senate and people of Syracuse offered houses
and lands to all who were willing to be members of the common-
wealth of Syracuse: upon which, many came flocking over as to the
possession of a new inheritance. At length forty thousand new plan-
ters had their shares by lot in those lands that yet remained undi-
vided within the territories of Syracuse; and ten thousand were al.
lotted to Argyra, being a very large and pleasant country,
Not long after, he caused all the antient laws of Diocles for the
government of the Syracusans, to be reviewed and amended. Such
part of them as concerned private commerce and inheritances he
altered not; but those that related to the administration of the
pube
lic government, and the commonwealth, he amended as he thought
* Brutii.
148
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
most expedient. Cephalus, a Corinthian, a learned and prudent
,
man, was chiefly concerned in this emendation and correction of the
laws. When this business was finished, he translated the Leontines
into Syracuse, and greatly enlarged Camarina with multitudes of
ivhabitants. And to sum up all, he brought things to that pass
throughout all Sicily, (now through his care in perfect peace and tran-
quillity), as that the cities in a very short time abounded in wealth,
and all earthly blessings. For through the seditions and intestine
w..5, (which Sicily laboured under for a long time together), and
the many tyrants that set up for themselves, it was brought to that
niserable condition, that the cities were depopulated, and the lands
lay waste and untilied, and no crops to be bad for the supply of daily
food. But now that there were many plantations of colonies blessed
with a constant peace, and the land was every where manured and
improved by the labour of the husbandman, it began to yield all
sorts of fruits, which being vended (with great advantage) to the
'merchants, the inhabitants grew exceeding rich in a very short time.
And this abundance of wealth occasioned in that age many stately
structures to be erected up and down in honour of the gods. As one
among the rest near to the Island of Syracuse, called the House of
Sixty Beds, built by Agathocles, for greatness and beauty excelling
all the works in Sicily; and because (as it were in contempt) it over-
topped all the temples of the gods, (as a manifest indication of their
anger), it was beaten down by a thunderbolt. At the lesser haven
likewise, there were towers built of outlandish stone, in which were
inscriptions cut, and the name of Agathocles, who raised them.
Besides these, not long after, were built by Hiero the king, an
Olympus* in the market-place, and an altar near the theatre a fur-
long in length, and in height and breadth proportionable.
In the lesser cities likewise, as in Argyra, (which by reason of the
richness of the soil, as aforesaid, received new colonies), he built a
theatre, (the most glorious of any in Sicily next to that at Syracuse),
and erected temples to the gods, built a court, a market-place,
and stately towers, and raised over the tombs and monuments many
large pyramids of admirable workmanship.
1
* o lemple.
Chap. XIV.
149
DIODORUS SICULUSULUS.
.
1
CHAP. XIV.
Elatea taken by Philip. Great consternations in Athens for fear
of Philip. The Baotians join with the Athenians through the
solicitations of Demosthenes. Python, a famous orator. The
battle of Chæronea, between Philip and the Athenians. Ly-
sicles the Athenian general put to death. Philip rebuked by
Demades; made general of Greece. Timoleon dies.
WHEN Charondas executed the office of lord-chancellor of Athens,
and Lucius Æmilius, and Caius Plotius, were Roman consuls, Philip
king of Macedon being in amity with many of the Grecians, made
it his chief business to bring under the Athenians, thereby with more
ease to gain the sovereignty of Greece.
To that end, he presently
possessed himself of Elatea, and brought all his forces thither, with
a design to fall upon the Athenians, hoping easily to overcome them,
in regard they were not (as he conceived) prepared for war, by rea-
son of the peace lately made with them; which fell out accordingly,
For after the taking of Elatea, some hastened in the night to Athens,
informing them that Elatea was taken by the Macedonians, and that
Philip was designing to invade Attica with all his forces. The A- ,
thenian commanders, surprised with the suddenness of the thing, sent
for all the trumpeters, and commanded an alarm to be sounded al}
night: upon which, the report flew through all parts of the city,
and fear rouzed up the courage of the citizens. As soon as day ap-
peared, the people, without any summons from the magistrate, (as
the custom was), all Aocked to the theatre. To which place, as soon
as the commanders came, with the messenger that brought the news,
and had declared to them the business, fear and silence filled the the-
atre, and none who were used to influence the people had a heart to
give any advice. And although a crier called out to such as ought to
declare their minds, what was to be done in order to their common
security, yet none appeared who offered any thing of advice in the
present exigency. The people therefore, in great terror and amaze-
ment, cast their eyes upon Demosthenes, who stood up and bid
them be courageous, and advised them forthwith to send ambassa-
dors to Thebes, to treat with the Bootians to join with them in de-
fence of the common liberty; for the shortness of time (he said)
would not admit of an embassy of aid from the other confederates,
for that the king would probably invade Attica within two days; and
>
152
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
reprehended him, and advanced him to places of honour. In con.
clusion, he became so far complaisant, and moulded into the civili-
ties of Athens, through his converse with Demades, that he released
all the captives without ransom; and, remitting his pride and
haughtiness, (the constant attendant upon victory), be sent ambas-
sadors to Athens, and renewed the peace with them: and, placing a
garrison in Thebes, made peace likewise with the Bæotians. After
this overthrow, the Atheniaus put to death Lysicles, the general of
the army, upon the accusation of Lycurgus, who was the most highly
preferred of any of the orators of that age. He had executed the
office of lord-treasurer of the city (with great commendation) for the
space of twelve years, and all his life long had been in great repu-
tation for his virtue and honesty; but a most bitter accuser. The
excellence and sharpness of whose speech, if any desire to know, he
may best judge by his words used against Lysicles, which follow:
“ O Lysicles, thou wast the general of the army; and, though a
thousand citizens are slain, two thousand taken prisoners, a trophy
erected to the dishonour of this city, and all Greece enslaved, and
all this done thou being captain and general, yet darest to live and
view the light of the sun, and blushest not to shew thy face in the
forum, thou who art born the monument of thy country's shame and
dishonour!”
A thing very remarkable happened at this time. For, when this
battle was fought at Chæronea, the same day and hour another was
fought in Italy, between the Tarentines and Lucanians, in which Ar-
chidamus, the king of Lacedæmon, was slain, who bad reigned three-
and-twenty years. Agis, his son, succeeded him, and governed nine
years. About that time likewise died Timotheus, prince of Heraclea,
in Pontus, in the fifteenth year of his principality, whose brother Dio-
nysius succeeded, and reigned two-and-thirty years.
Phrynicus bore the office of chief magistrate of Athens, and
Titus Manlius Torquatus, and Publius Decius, were invested with
the consular dignity at Rome, when Philip, bearing himself very
haughtily, on account of his victory at Chæronea, and having struck
a terror into the most eminent cities of Greece, made it his great
business to be chosen generalissimo of all Greece. It being there-
fore noised abroad, that he would make war upon the Persians, for
the advantage of the Grecians, and that lie would revenge the impiety
by them committed against the sacreds of the gods, he presently won
the hearts of the Grecians.
He was very liberal and courteous likewise to all, both private
men and communities, and published to the cities, that he had a
desire to consult with them concerning matters relating to the pub-
Chap. XIV.
151
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that time given evident demonstrations of his valour, and the spright-
liness of his spirit in managing affairs), to command one wing, join-
ing with him some of the best of his commanders. He himself,
with a choice body of men, commanded the other wing, and placed
and disposed the regiments and brigades in such posts and stations
as the present occasion required. The Athenians marshalled their
army according to the several nations, and committed one part to the
Baotians, and commanded the rest themselves. At length the are
mies engaged, and a fierce and bloody battle was fought, which con-
tinued a long time with great slaughter on both sides, uncertain
which way victory would incline, until Alexander, earnest to give an
indication of his valour to his father, charged with a more than or-
dinary heat and vigour, and, being assisted by many stout and brave
men, was the first that broke through the main body pf the enemy
next to him, with the slaughter of many, and bore down all before
him; and, when those that seconded him did the like, then the regi-
ments next to the former were broke to pieces. At length, the earth
being strewed with heaps of dead carcases, those with Alexander first
put the wing opposed to them to flight. The king himself, likewise,
at the head of this regiment, fought with no less courage and resolu-'
tion; and, that the glory of the victory might not be attributed to his
son, he forced the enemy opposed to him to give ground, and at
length totally routed them, and so was the chief instrument of the
victory. There were above a thousand Athenians killed in this bat-
tle, and no fewer than two thousand taken prisoners. A great num-
ber likewise of the Bæotians were slain, and many fell into the hands
of the enemy
After the battle, Philip set up a trophy, and, having given liberty
for the burying of the dead, he sacrificed to the gods for the victory,
and distributed rewards to the soldiers who had signalised their valour,
according as every one had deserved.
Some report, that Philip, having appointed a wanton and luxurious
banquet with his friends, in ostentation of his victory, in his cups
passing through the throng of the prisoners, most contumeliously
tauoted the miserable wretches with their misfortune. Whereupon
Demades the orator, one of the captives, spoke boldly to him, and
framed a discourse, in order to curb the pride and petulance of the
king, in words to this effect." Since Fortune, O king, has repre-
sented thee like Agamemnon, art thou not ashamed to act the part
of Thersites?" With this sharp reproof, they say, Philip was so
startled, that he wholly changed his former course, and not only laid
aside the coronets, and all other badges of pride and wautonness that
attended his festivals, but, with admiration, released the man that had
152
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
reprehended him, and advanced him to places of honour. In con-
clusion, he became so far complaisant, and moulded into the civili-
ties of Athens, through his converse with Demades, that he released
all the captives without rapsom; and, remitting his pride and
haughtiness, (the constant attendant upon victory), he sent ambas-
sadors to Athens, and renewed the peace with them: and, placing a
garrison in Thebes, made peace likewise with the Bæotians. After
this overthrow, the Athenians put to death Lysicles, the general of
the army, upon the accusation of Lycurgus, who was the most highly
preferred of any of the orators of that age. He had executed the
office of lord-treasurer of the city (with great commendation) for the
space of twelve years, and all his life long had been in great repu-
tation for his virtue and honesty; but a most bitter accuser. The
excellence and sharpness of whose speech, if any desire to know, he
may best judge by his words used against Lysicles, which follow:
“ O Lysicles, thou wast the general of the army; and, though a
thousand citizens are slain, two thousand taken prisoners, a trophy
erected to the dishonour of this city, and all Greece enslaved, and
all this done thou being captain and general, yet darest to live and
view the light of the sun, and blushest not to shew thy face in the
forum, thou who art born the monument of thy country's shame and
dishonour!”
A thing very remarkable happened at this time. For, when this
battle was fought at Chæronea, the same day and hour another was
fought in Italy, between the Tarentines and Lucanians, in which Ar-
chidamus, the king of Lacedæmon, was slain, who had reigned three-
and-twenty years. Agis, his son, succeeded him, and governed nine
years. About that time likewise died Timotheus, prince of Heraclea,
in Pontus, in the fifteenth year of his principality, whose brother Dio-
nysius succeeded, and reigned two-and-thirty years.
Phrynicus bore the office of chief magistrate of Athens, and
Titus Manlius Torquatus, and Publius Decius, were invested with
the consular dignity at Rome, when Philip, bearing himself very
haughtily, on account of his victory at Chæronea, and having struck
a terror into the most eminent cities of Greece, made it his great
business to be chosen generalissimo of all Greece. It being there-
fore noised abroad, that he would make war upon the Persians, for
the advantage of the Grecians, and that he would revenge the impiety
by them committed against the sacreds of the gods, he presently won
the hearts of the Grecians.
He was very liberal and courteous likewise to all, both private
men and communities, and published to the cities, that he had a
desire to consult with them concerning matters relating to the pub-
Chap. XV.
153
DIODORUS SICULUS.
lic good. Whereupon a general council was called, and held at
Corinth, where he declared his design to make war upon the Persians,
and what probable grounds there were of success, and therefore de-
sired the council to join with him as confederates in the war.
At length he was created general of all Greece, with absolute
power, and thereupon he made mighty preparations for that expedi-
tion; and, having ordered what quota of men every city should send
forth, he returned into Macedonia. And thus stood the affairs and
concerns of Philip.
In Sicily, Timoleon, after he had settled all things in right and
due order in Syracuse, died, having governed eight years. The Syra-
cusans, who highly honoured him for the many great services done
to their country, buried him in great state and pomp, and, when the
body was to be brought forth, great multitudes were got together,
and the Syracusans published a decree_That two hundred minas
should be expended upon the charge of his funeral, and that his me-
mory should be honoured yearly for ever with music, horse-coursing,
and Gymnic sports, because he had subdued the barbarians, planted
colonies in the greatest Greek city in Sicily, and rescued the Sicilians
from slavery.
About this time Ariobarzanes* died, in the twenty-sixth year of
his reign, and was succeeded by Mithridates, who reigned five-and-
thirty years. At the same time the Romans fought with the Latins
and Campanians, near the city Suessa, and routed them, and confis-
cated part of their lands; and Manlius the consul, who gained the
day, triumphed for the victory.
• King of Pontus.
Vol.2. No. 42.
$
154
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SIC'L'LUS.
CHAP, XV.
Philip consults the oracle at Delphos. Marries his daughter Cleo-
patra to the king of Epirus. Encouraged to the Persian war
by Neoptolemus's verses. Philip's pride. His murder. The
cause of it, how it was done, and by whom.
WHEN Pythodorus was chief governor of Athens, and Quintus
Publius, and Tiberius Æmilius Mamercus, were Roman consuls, the
hundred and eleventh Olympiad was celebrated, wherein Cleomantis
Cletorius wou the prize. In this year Philip began the war against
the Persians, and forthwith sent Attalus and Parmenio before into
Asia, to free the Greek cities there from slavery. He himself, in-
tending to have the concurrence of the gods, consulted the oracle at
Delphos, whether or no he should be victorious over the king of
Persia. The answer was thus
The ox is crowned when 's end is near at land,
To offer him a man dotlı ready stand.
This doubtful answer Philip construed to his own advantage, as if the
oracle had expressly foretold, that he should lead away the Persian
king as a victim to the sacrifice: but, in truth, it fell out quite other-
wise, and, by the effect, it appeared that it had a contrary significa-
tion, to wit, that Philip, in a throng, at the time of a sacred festival,
was to be koocked on the head like a bullock crowned with a garland
for sacrifice.
In the mean time, he was very jocund, as if he had conquered Asia
already, and concluded the gods were engaged with him in the ex-
pedition. Without delay, therefore, he offered most costly and mag-
nificent sacrifices, and, at the same time, solemnized the marriage of
his daughter Cleopatra, by Olympias: he married her to Alexander,
king of Epirus, brother of Olympias. Having, therefore, a desire of
a considerable appearance of the Grecians at this nuptial festivity,
conjoined with his religious sacrifices, he made most pompous pre-
paration for the entertainment of his friends and guests, both in mur
sic, dancing, and feasting,
To this end, he invited those that were his special friends and
familiars, all over Greece, and commanded his servants and attend-
ants that they should invite as many strangers from all places as
were of their owu acquaintance. And his main design in all this
was, that he might assure all the Grecians of his kindness towards
a
Chap. XV.
155
DIODORUS SICULUS.
them, and testify his gratitude, by these friendly entertainments,
for the honours conferred upon him. A vast concourse of people,
therefore, were got together from all parts, to the solemnity of these
nuptials, which were magnificently solemnized at Ægea*, in Mace-
donia, with all sorts of sports and plays; so that not only noblemen
and persons of quality, but even many great cities, presented Philip
with crowns of gold. Among the cities, Athens made one; and,
when the common cryer, with a loud voice, presented the crown
sent from them to Philip, he closed with this _That if any plotter
of treason against Philip should hereafter flee to Athens for shelter,
he should be forthwith delivered up. By this accidental publication
of the cryer, it seemed to be intimated (as it were by some divine
providence) that some piece of treachery was near at hand to be
executed.
There were several other such words (as by a divine instigation)
uttered, which portended the king's death. There was then at the
festival, Neoptolemus, the tragedian, remarkable above all others for
the loudness of his voice, and famous and eminent in other respects.
The king had commanded him to repeat some verses which he had
been ordered to compose, especially relating to the Persian expedition.
Whereupon he began to recite a witty poem, proper (as he thought)
10 Philip's intended passage into Asia, wherein he set forth the glory
and greatness of the Persian king; and, though he was so famous all
the world over, yet that fortune would some time or other bring him
down. The poem was thus-
Your minds are higher than the sky o'ergrown,
The greatest part of earth you
wish
your own;
Hlouses to house's join; fools without end,
You would your lives as well as lands extend.
Bui doleful deaih, alas! although ye do
Creep towards, 'twill gallop unto you,
Of long hopes very shortly cut the clue.
He added likewise ot!:ers in the same scnse with these, But
Philip, resting wholly upon these recited, bis thoughts were altoge-
ther full of his conquering the king of Persia; and he much revolved
in his mind the answer given him by the oracle, which agreed in all
points with the words of the tragedian.
After the feast for that time was ended, and the sports were to be
repowed the next day, a great number of people in the night time
flocked into the theatre. And whereas twelve images of the gods,
(amongst other sumptuous preparations), most curiously wrought
* Or Ægeas.
156
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
and richly adorned, were brought forth in pompous procession, the
image of Philip, clothed like the gods in every respect, made the
thirteenth, hereby arrogating to himself a place, as if he would be
enthroned among the gods*. The theatre being now full, he him-
self came forth, clothed in a white robe, his life-guards following him
at a great distance, designing thereby to evidence it to all, that he
judged himself secure in the hearts and affections of the Grecians,
and therefore stuod not in need of the guard of his halberteers.
While he was thus with loud and joyful acclamations cried up (as it
were) to the stars, and the whole multitude resounded his praise,
upon a sudden, and beyond all men's expectation, he was treacher-
ously murdered.
But, for the clearer and more distinct understanding of the history
in this matter, we shall first relate the causes and grounds of this
assassination.
There was one Pausanias, a Macedonian, of the city called Orestis,
one of the king's esquires of the body, and, for his beauty, dearly
beloved by him. This man, taking notice how much another youth
of the same name was doated on by Philip, attacked him with very
foul and opprobrious language, telling him he was an hermaphrodite,
for that he prostituted himself to the lust of every one that would.
He was much incensed at this disgrace, but concealed it for awhile.
Afterwards, consulting with Attalus what was to be done for the fu-
ture, he determined presently after, in an unusua! manner, to put an
end to his own life. For, within awhile after, in a battle wherein
Philip was engaged against Pleuratus, king of the Illyrians, Pausanias
in the heat of the fight interposed himself between the king and the
enemy, and received all the darts upon his own body that were cast
at the king, and so died upon the spot. The manner of his death
being noised abroad, Attalus, one of the courtiers, and in great es-
teem with the king, invited the other Pausanias to a feast, and, after
he had made him drunk, exposed his body, thus overcharged with
wine, to be abused by the filthy lusts of a company of base, sordid
fellowst. When he was sober, he was highly enraged at the abomi-
nable abuse, and complained against Attalus to the king; who,
though he was much offended at the wickedness of the act, yet, by
reason of his relation to him, and because he had at present occasion
to make use of him in his service, he would not punish him: for he
was uncle to Cleopatra, whom the king had married as his second
* Tliere were twelve chief gods among the Greeks, who were called Olympii; their
names were, Jupiler, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Volcan, Apollo, Juno, Vesta, Minerva,
Ceres, Diana, Venus.Vidc IIerodotus in Terpsichore.
# Alule-tenders, or others.
Chap. XV.
157
DIODORUS SICULUS.
wife, and was designed general of the army sent before into Asia,
being a very stout and valiant man. To pacify therefore Pausanias,
.
whose spirit was highly exasperated at the intolerable injury done
him, he bestowed on him many rich gifts, and advanced him to a
more honourable post in his guards. But Pausanias's anger was
implacable, and therefore he determined not only to revenge him-
self upon the author of this abuse, but upon him that waved doing
him justice by the inflicting of punishment. And Hermocrates the
sophist greatly confirmed him in this his resolution. For Pausanias
conversing with him, and in discourse asking him, by what means a
man might make himself most famous ? _The philosopher answered,
by killing him that had done the greatest things; for, whenever he
is named, then he likewise that killed bim will be sure to be remem-
bered. Pausanias, making use of this answer as an incentive to his
rage, the restlessness of his disturbed spirit would admit of no further
delay, but laid his design in the time of the festivals in this manner:
he first placed horses at the gates of the city, then he himself re-
turned and stood at the entrance into the theatre, with a Gallic
sword secreted under his coat. Philip had commanded his friends
that came along with him to go before him into the theatre, and his
guards were at a considerable distance from him: whereupon the
traitor, perceiving that the king was alone, ran up to him, and, stab-
bing him in the side, through the body, laid him dead at his feet,
and forthwith fled to the horses that were prepared for him at the
gates. Hereupon presently some of the life-guards ran to the body,
and others pursued the assassin, amongst whom were Leonatus,
Perdiccas, and Attalus. Pausanias nimbly moanted his horse, and
made so swiftly away, that he would certainly have escaped, but that
a branch of a vine caught hold of the heel of his shoe, and so en-
tangled him that he fell: upon which Perdiccas, with the others,
came upon him as he was endeavouring to rise, and, after many
wounds given him, there slew him. And thus Philip (the most
potent of all the kings in Europe in that age, and who, for the great-
ness of his dominion, associated himself for majesty into the number
of the twelve gods) came to his end, after he had reigned about four-
and-twenty years.
This king, from very small beginnings, gained the largest dominion
in Greece; and he is judged to have enlarged the bounds of his
kingdom not so much by arms, as by his fair tongue, and his com-
plaisant and courteous demeanor towards all he had to deal with:
for it is reported, that Philip himself would often boast more of his
military art and policy, and of the gaining of his enemies by fair
158
Book XVI.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
words, than in the strength and valour of his soldiers: for he had
used to say_That the honour of winuing of battles was common
and due to the rest of the army with himself; but the praise and
commendation due to affability and a pleasant converse, was peculiar
to himself alone.
And thus, being now come to the death of Philip, we shall end
this book, as we at first designed. The following we shall begin
with the succession of Alexander into his father's kingdom, and en-
deavour to comprehend all his actions in one book.
159
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XVII.
PREFACE.
THE former book, being the sixteenth of our history, began with the
reign of Philip, the son of Amyntas, and comprehended not only
the things done by him to the very day of his death, but the actions
and affairs of other kings, cities, and countries, during the space of
four-and-twenty years. Having now, in this, to declare what fol-
lowed, we shall begin with the reign of Alexander; and, in treating
of the actions of this prince, from the beginning to the end, we shall
take along with us the most remarkable things done through all parts
of the world.
And the relations (we conceive) will be the better remembered, if
things be methodically digested, as it were, into distinct heads, so as
that the beginning and end may, as by one thread, be knit one to the
other: for this king did great things in a very short time, and ex-
celled all the princes that ever were before him in his wonderful a-
chievements, effected by his own valour and policy: for he con-
quered a great part of Europe, and almost all Asia, within the space
of twelve years; so that his fame was (deservedly) advanced to that
degree, that in glory he surmounted all the heroes and demi-gods.
But we need not (we judge) in a preface auiicipate any of the
worthy actions of this king; for the particular relations themselves
will sufficiently evidence his greatness, and the fame and glory of his
name, Alexander, therefore, descended from Hercules ou the fa-
ther's side, and from Achilles on the mother's, seemed to derive his
valour, as well as his person, from such famous ancestors.
The time thus stated for this present relation, we return to the
course of our history.
160
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. I.
Conspiracies of the cities against Alexander. The Athenians send
ambassadors to Alexander, to beg pardon. He is made general
by the Amphictyons. Attalus killed by Alexander's command.
The wickedness of Bagoas. Darius commended. Raises forces.
A description of Mount Ida. Alexander invades the Illyrians,
and others. Thebes besieged by Alexander, and razed. The,
miseries of Thebes. Prodigies.
Prodigies. Alexander demands Demos-
thenes and others to be delivered up to him by the Athenians:
their answer. He returns into Macedonia, and feasts his
soldiers.
WHEN Evænetus was lord-chancellor in Athens, and Lucius Furius
and Caius Manlius* were Roman consuls, Alexander ascended the
throne, and, in the first place, executed justice upon the murderers of
his father: and, when he had with great care celebrated his funeral,
he set in order the great concerns of the kingdom much better than
most expected: for, being very young, and upon that account des-
pised, he sought first to win the common people by fair words and
courteous addresses. Amongst others, he told them, that the name
of the king only was changed, but that the government should not
be managed in any respect worse than it was when his father was alive.
He courteously, likewise, gave audience to the ambassadors, and de-
sired the Grecians that they would have the same kindness for him
as they had for his father, which he so esteemed, that he looked upon
it as part of his inheritance. Then he employed himself in the fre-
quent training of the soldiers, and in martial exercises, and brought
the army readily to submit to his commands. Attalus, the uncle of
Cleopatra, Philip's other wife, conspired to gain the kingdom; and
therefore he resolved to take him out of the way. For Cleopatra was
brought to bed of a son a few days before the death of Philip, and
Attalus was sent a little before, as general, with Parmenio his col-
league, with an army into Asia, where, by his bribes and fair tongue,
he so gained the hearts of the soldiers, that the army was wholly de-
voted to him: and therefore the king conceived he had just cause to
be jealous of him, lest, if he should side with the Grecians, (whom he
knew were his enemies), he should by that means gain the kingdom
1
Mænius,
Chap. I.
161
DIODORUS SICULUS.
for himself. Therefore he made choice of Hecateus, one of his
friends, and sent bim with a considerable army into Asia, with com-
mand to bring over Attalus alive, if he could; and, if he could not
effect that, to take the first opportunity to kill him. When he came
into Asia, he joined his forces with Attalus and Parmenio, and watched
a fit opportunity to execute what he was commanded.
In the mean time, Alexander being informed that many of the
Grecians were hatching some mischief, in order to new commotions,
his thoughts were greatly perplexed and disturbed. For the Athe,
nians (Demosthenes stirring them up against the Macedonians) re-
joiced at the news of Philip's death, and resolved that the Macedo-
nians should no longer domineer over Greece. To this end, they
sent over ambassadors to Attalus, and privately consulted with him
concerning the management of the whole affair, and stirred up many
of the cities to assert their liberties. The Ætolians made a decree
to recal the exiles of Acarnania, whom Philip had driven out of their
country. The Ambraciots, by the persuasion of Aristarchus, drove
out the garrison that was there, and restored the democracy, The
Thebans likewise decreed to cast out the garrison that was in the
citadel of Cadmea, and that Alexander should never, with their con-
sent, have command in Greece. The Arcadians also, as they were
the only people that refused to give their consent that Philip should
be general of Greece, so they now rejected Alexander. The rest of
the Peloponnesians, as the Argives, Elians, Lacedæmonians, and
some others, were with all their might for their own government. To
conclude, many of the nations beyond Macedonia waited for an op-
portunity to rebel, and great commotions there were among the bar,
barians in those parts.
Notwithstanding all which, and the fears that were every where
in the kingdom, and though he was but a youth, yet in a short
time (beyond all expectation) he overcame all those difficulties, and
made all plain and elear before him, reducing some to their duty
by fair and smooth words, and others through fear and dread of
punishments; and the rest he compelled by force to stoop to his
sovereignty.
In the first place, he so far gained upon the Thessalians, both by
promises of large rewards, and by his smooth and courteous language,
(telling them how near of kin he was to them by his descent from
Hercules), that they by a publiç decree declared him general of
Greece, as that which descended to him from his father. Having
gained this point, he brought over the bordering nations to the same
good opinion of him. Then he went to Pylene, and, in the senate of
VOL. 2. No. 42.
Y
162
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the Amphictyons he so managed his matters, that, by the general
consent of all, he was created generalissimo of all Greece. He as-
sured the Ambraciots, in a kind and smooth oration made to them
That he had that kindness for them, that he would presently restore
them to that liberty which they so lately sought to recover. But, to
strike the greater terror into those that regarded not his words, he
came with a swift march with an army of Macedonians in an hostile
manner into Bæotia, and, encamping near the Cadmea, struck a ter-
ror into the city of the Thebans.
About the same time the Athenians, hearing of the king's coming
into Boeotia, slighted him no longer: for the quickness of the youth,
and his diligent despatch of business, greatly terrified the revolters.
Hereupon the Athenians ordered every thing they had in the country
to be brought into the city, and the walls to be repaired and guarded
as well as they could; and sent ambassadors to Alexander, to beg
pardon that they had no sooner owned his sovereignty, and ordered
Demosthenes to accompany the ambassadors: but he came not with
the others to Alexander, but returned from Citheron to Athens;
either because he was afraid, upon account of the speeches he had
publicly made against the Macedonians, or that he was not willing to
displease the Persian king: for it is reported that he had received
great sums of money from the Persians to beat down the interest of
the Macedonians by his orations; which was binted (they say) by
Æschines, in one of his speeches, wherein he upbraids Demosthenes
for taking of bribes in these words_Now the king's gold plentifully
bears all his charges; but this will not serve his turn long, for cove-
tousness is never satisfied with abundance.
But to proceed, Alexander returned a very courteous answer to
the ambassadors, which freed the Athenians from their fears, and
he ordered all the ambassadors and members of the council* to meet
him at Corinth; where, when those who were usually members of
the general council were come, the king, by a gracious speech, so
prevailed with the Grecians, that they created him general of all
Greece, and decreed him aid and assistance against the Persians, in
order to revenge the many injuries the Greeks had received from
them. Having thus gained the honour he sought for, he marched
back with his army into Macedonia,
Having now given an account of the affairs of Greece, we shall
relate next what things were done in Asia : for, Attalus presently
upon the death of Philip, began to set up for himself; and to that
• Of the Amphictyons.
Chap. 1.
163
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
end, made a league with the Athenians, in order by their joint con-
currence to oppose Alexander. But afterwards he changed his mind,
and sent a letter (written to him by Demosthenes) to Alexander, and
in many smooth and flattering expressions, endeavoured to clear him-
self of all those crimes and miscarriages that were laid to his charge.
However, he was afterwards killed by Hecateus, according to the
king's command; upon which the Macedonian army in Asia laid
aside all thoughts of a defection, for that Attalus was now gone, and
Parmenio greatly loved Alexander.
But as w
re now about to write of the kingdom of Persia, it
is necessary that we begin our relation a little higher.
Lately, in the reign of Philip, Ochus* ruled over the Persians,
hated by all for his ill nature and cruelty towards his subjects. Ba-
goas therefore, a colonel in the army, and an eunuch, but a wicked
and beastly fellow, poisoned the king by the help of his physician,
and placed the king's youngest son Arses upon the throne. He like-
wise murdered the new king's brothers, (who were yet very young),
that being thus bereft of his relations, he might be more observant
to himself.
But the young man abhorring the wickedness of this wretch, and
plainly, by many tokens, discovering his design to punish him, Bagoas
smelling it out, murdered Arses and all his children, in the third year
of his reign.
The royal family being thus extinct, and none of that race left who
could make any title to the crown, he advanced one of his friends,
called Darius, to the kingdom. He was the son of Arsanes, the bro-
ther of Artaxerxes king of Persia. But the fate of Bagoas was very
remarkable; for having habituated himself to cruelty, he resolved like-
wise to poison Darius in a medicinal potion: but this treason being dis-
covered, the king sent in a friendly manner to speak with him; and
when he came delivered to him the cup, and forced him to drink it off.
And indeed Darius was judged worthy to enjoy the kingdom, being
looked upon as the most valiant man among the Persians: for here-
tofore, when Artaxerxes was engaged in a battle against the Cadu-
sians, one of the enemy, of a strong body, and courageous spirit, chal-
lenged any of the Persians there present to a single combat; which
when none would dare to undertake, this Darius entered the list,
and killed the Cadusian. For which he was highly rewarded by the
king, and gained the chiefest reputation for valour among the Per-
sians. And for this reason also, he was accounted worthy of the
a
Darius Ocbur,
164
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
crown of Persia, and began to reign about the same time that Philip
died, and Alexander succeeded in the kingdom.
The valour therefore of Alexander meeting with such a man as
this for his adversary to cope with, was the occasion that so many bat-
tles were fought for the empire with that resolution as they were.
But these matters will appear more clear hereafter, when things come
to be more distinctly and particularly related : for the present we shall
return to the orderly course of the history.
Darius* being advanced to the throne of Persia, a little before the
death of Philip, he was contriving how to avert the war threatened,
and bring it over to Macedonia itself: but when he was dead, and so
the king freed from that fear, he slighted and despised the youth of
Alexander: but being for his volour, and activeness of spirit in des-
patch of business, at length created general of all Greece, the fame
and valour of the young man was in every man's mouth.
And Darius now began to look about him, and employed his chief
care to raise forces, and fitted out a great feet, and made choice of
the best officers he could procure to command his army, which was
now very great and numerous; among whom Memnon, the Rhodian,
was one, a brave man, both for valour and discipline: him the king
commanded to march to Cyzicust with five thousand men, and to
endeavour to take that city: who, in order thereto, marched his
army over the mountain Ida. Some fabulously report that this moun-
tain was so called from Ida of Meliseus. It is the highest mountain
of any about the Hellespont. In the middle is a cave, as if it were
made on purpose to entertain the gods, in which it is reported, that
Alexandert gave judgment concerning the goddesses.
Here it is said, the Idæa Dactyliß were born, who were the first
that were taught to work in iron by the motherll of the gods.
A thing also very wonderful and remarkable is ascribed to this
place: for, at the rising of the dog-starſ, there is such a serenity and
calmness of the air upon the top of the mount, as if it were there
above all storms and winds; and then even at midnight the sun seems
to rise, so that its rays appear not in a circular form, but casts abroad
fames of fire here and there at a great distance, so that it seems as
if flakes of fire in several places overspread the earth; which, within
a little while after, are contracted into one body, till they come to the
* Darius Codomanus. + Cyzicus, an island in the Propontis, and a city there.
This was Paris, the son of Priam, called Alexander, who decided the controvessy
between Juno, Minerva, and Venus, by giving the golden apple to Venus as the fairesti
Paus. I. v. c. 19.
$ The sons of Minerve and Apollo. 1 Cybele. $ In August
Chap. 1.
165
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
quantity of three plethras*. At length, when the day is at hand,
there appears, as it were, the complete body of the sun enlightening
the air as it uses to do at other times.
But to proceed: Memnon having passed over this mountain, as-
saults Cyzicus on a sudden, and was very near surprising of it. But
failing in his design, he harassed the country, and returned loaden
with a rich booty.
In the mean time, Parmenio took Grynium hy storm, and sold all
the inhabitants for slaves. Then he besieged Pitane; but Memnon
appoaching, the Macedonians in a fright quitted the siege.
Afterwards Callas, with a body of Macedonians and other mer-
cenaries, fought with the Persians in the country of Troas, and being
overpowered with numbers, was beaten, and forced to retire to Rhe-
tium. And in this condition was Asia at that time.
Alexander having quieted all the commotions in Greece, marched
with his army into Thrace, which struck such terror into those peo-
ple that had caused tumults and disorders there, that he forced them
to submit to his government. Then he invaded Peonia and Illyriat,
and the people bordering upon them, and having subdued those that
had revolted, he likewise brought under his dominion the barbarians
next adjoining. While he was engaged in these wars, he received
intelligence that many of the Grecians were about to revolt, and that
a considerable number of the Greek cities, particularly Thebes, had
already actually rejected his sovereignty. He was hereupon in a
great rage, and returned into Macedonia, with a design to hasten
Into Greece to quiet the tumults and disturbances there.
In the mean time, the Thebans were intent upon driving the Ma-
cedonian garrison out of the Cadmea, and to that end besieged the cita-
del; and had no sooner done so, but Alexander was presently at the
city walls, and lay before it with his whole army. The Thebans,
before Alexander's approach, had so begirt the Cadmea with a deep
trench, and a strong baricado of timber, that neither relief nor
pro-
vision could be brought in to them. They had sent likewise to the
Arcadians, Argives, and Elians, for their assistance; and solicited
the Athenians by their ambassadors to join with them, and had re.
ceived a great number of arms freely given to them by Demosthenes,
with which they armed those that had none.
Among those, to whom the Thebans addressed themselves for as-
sistance, the Peloponnesians had sent forces as far as to the Isthmus,
and there ordered them to make a halt till the king came, who was
then expected. The Athenians, though they had decreed aid to the
Three hundred feet.
# Now Dalınatia, or Sclavonia.
156
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Thebans, yet they sent no forces thither, intending first to observe
how matters were likely to go.
The governor likewise of the castle of Cadmea taking notice what
great preparations the Thebans were making for the siege, was very
diligent to strengthen and fortify the walls, and had furnished the
garrison with all sorts of weapons.
But after Alexander had arrived unexpectedly, and on a sud-
den, with his whole army out of Thrace, and that it was uncertain
whether any assistance would come in to the Thebans, the forces of
the enemy far exceeding them of Thebes, the officers called a council
of war to consult what to determine, and there it was unanimously
agreed to stand out in defence of the liberties of their country:
which resolution being approved of by all the citizens, they earnestly
set themselves to the carrying on of the war.
But the king forbore force for some time, to the end they might
have time to recollect themselves, not thinking that one city only
would engage with so great an army. For Alexander had with him
above thirty thousand foot, and three thousand horse, all old expe-
rienced soldiers, (conquerors almost in every battle under Philip), in
whose valour he so far confided, that he doubted not but by them to
put an end to the Persian monarchy. However, if the Thebans had
yielded to the present difficulty of the time, and had sent ambassa-
dors to the Macedonians with terms of peace, he had no doubt com-
plied with them, and granted whatever they would have desired.
For he wished greatly to have all quiet in Greece, and to be free and
undisturbed in his war against the Persians. But when be saw that
he was slighted by the Thebans, he resolved to destroy the city, and
by that means to terrify all others who for the future should
dare to rebel. And now when the army was drawn out in battalia
ready to engage, the king caused proclamation to be made_That
any of the Thebans should have liberty to come in to him, and who-
soever did, should enjoy the common liberty of Greece. On the
other side, the Thebans, to shew themselves as forward in their am-
bition as the enemy, by the voice of a crier from a high tower made
another proclamation_That whosoever had a desire to join with the
great king* and the Thebans, to defend the liberties of the Grecians,
and kill the tyrant of Greece, should be received by them. This
touched him to the quick, and he was thereupon so enraged, that he
vowed all sorts of deaths to the Thebans, and so commanded the
engines to be prepared in order to an assault, and other things to be
made ready for an engagement.
In the mean time, the Greeks considering the utter ruin that seem-
* King of Persia.
Chap. 1.
167
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ed to hang over the heads of the Thebans, were greatly affected with
the miseries wherewith they were likely to be overwhelmed, yet none
durst appear to relieve the city, for that they had rashly and incon-
siderately brought apparant destruction upon themselves: however,
the Thebans were very forward and resolute to venture all to the ut-
most extremity, though they were a little startled with some pro-
phecies and prodigies from the gods. The most remarkable was, that
in the temple of Ceres, a slender spider's web was observed to spread
out itself as broad as a cloak, and to represent the rainbow in an
arched circumference. Concerning which, the oracle at Delphos
gave them this answer
The god to all, by this sign gives a call:
To thee, Beotia, first; and neighbours all.
And the oracle in their own country returned them this other
This web for one works bane,
And for another gain.
This prodigy happened about three months before the king came
against Thebes. About the time of the king's arrival, the statues
placed in the forum seemed to sweat to that degree, that great drops
in every part stood upon them. Moreover, the magistrates were in-
formed, that in the lake of Onchestus were heard voices like the
roaring and bellowing of oxen. And that the waters in Dirce were
to the view as if they had been all turned into blood. There were
others from Delphos that reported, that the roof of the temple, built
by the Thebans out of the spoils of the Phocians, appeared to be
besmeared over with blood.
Those who addicted themselves to the interpretation of prodigies
said _That the web portended the departure of the gods from the
city; by the colour of the rainbow, was signified various troubles and
turmoils; by the appearance of sweat, extreme miseries; and by the
blood, slaughters and destructions in the city.
Therefore they advised the Thebans, that, insomuch as the gods
plainly pointed at the ruin of the city — That they should not engage
in fight with the enemy, but rather seek to agree matters some other
way, which was much more safe.
But the Thebans abated nothing of their courage, but on the con-
trary, pushed forward by the heat of their spirits, encouraged one
another with the remembrance of their famous victory at the battle
of Leuctra, and other successes gained by their former valour. So
that trusting more to the valour of their arms, than making use of
prudent councils, they ran headlong to the ruin of themselves and
their country.
In the mean time the king, within the space of three days, put
168
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
all things in order, both for assaulting the city, and marshalling his
army for battle. His army he divided into three parts: one part
be ordered to assault the out-wall; another to fight the Theban
army; and the third he kept for reserves to relieve his men, and re-
new the fight as there should be occasion. But the Thebans placed
their horse within the ramparts. Their slaves that were manumit-
ted, the exiles, and the strangers that were inhabitants, were ordered
to defend the walls; and the Thebans themselves (though they were
far inferior in number) were resolved to fight those Macedonians
commanded by the king, that were ready to make the assault.
And now all the women and children ran to the temples, to make
supplication to the gods to deliver them from the ruin that threatened
them. When the Macedonians drew near, the trumpets sounded a
charge, upon which both armies set up a great shout, and every one
charged that battalion to which he was appointed. By day-break
the darts flew one at another, and those being quickly spent, they
fell to it with their swords hand to hand, so that the fight presently
was very sharp and bloody. For the Macedonians, through their
number (far exceeding the other) and the fierceness of their charge,
put the enemy hard to it. On the other side, the Thebans being
stronger-bodied men, and used to martial discipline by their con-
tinual exercise in the schools, and more resolved than the other, re-
solutely went through all difficulties whatsoever, so that many were
wounded, and multitudes killed on both sides. In the heat of the
battle, a man might have heard shouts for victory, and groans of dy-
ing men at one and the same time, and the Macedonians often cal.
ling out to one another, not to stain the glory of their former victories
by any base act of cowardice in the preseut engagement; and the
Thebans pressing theirs not to sụffer their parents, wives, and chil.
dren, to be miserable captives, and all their families exposed to the
rageful lust of the Macedonians, but that they would remember the
battles at Leuctra and Mantinea, and the noble actions for which
they were famous all the world over. So that the obstinate resolu.
tion of both parties occasioned the issue of the battle to be very
doubtful a long time.
Alexander perceiving how the love of liberty inflamed the courage
of the Thebans, and that the Macedonians began to faint, com-
manded the reserves to relieve them that were engaged, Upon which,
the Macedonians coming with a fierce and sudden charge upon the
Thebans, now even tired out, bore them down and killed multitudes
of them. However, the Thebans would not yield the enemy the
day, but stood to it with that obstinacy, that they slighted all mis-
fortunes, and their valour so strengthened their resolution, that they
Chap. I.
169
DIODORUS SICULUS.
cried out That the Macedonians must own themselves worsted by
the Thebans. And this is to be observed of them_That when all
others (being still pressed upon by their enemies with fresh supplies
one after another) are wont to fag, they only are the more courageous,
even when their wearied enemy is relieved by fresh reserves.
While the armies were thus resolutely engaged, the king spied a
portal without any guard, and sends away Perdiccas with some regi-
ments in order to possess himself of the place, and so break into the
city. Perdiccas having presently executed the king's command, the
Macedonians through this little gate forthwith rushed into the city.
And though the Thebans had a good while before worsted the enemy's
first battalion, and were now engaged with the second, and full of
hopes of a perfect victory, yet, when they understood that the enemy
had possessed themselves of a part of the city, they forthwith retired
within the walls. And then both the horse and foot hastened back
with all speed into the city, and trod many of their fellow-citizens
under foot, who there perished; and while they made into the city
in this trepidation and confusion, many were killed by running upon
their own weapons in the strait and narrow passages, and by falling
into the trenches. And in the midst of this distraction, the garrison
out of the castle of Cadmea, issued forth like a rapid torrent upon
the backs of the Thebans, and fell upon them as they were in this
disorder and confusion, and cut them down in heaps. The city be,
ing thus taken, multitudes of all sorts of cruelties were acted within
the walls. For the Macedonians, by reason of that insolency of the
common crier, were enraged against the Thebans beyond what the
law of arms would allow, and with many threats in their mouthis, few
upon the miserable people, and without any pity or compassion put
all to the sword that were in their way. However, among all these
calamities, the courage of the Thebans, and their love to their liberty,
was such, that they were so far from minding the preservation of their
lives, as that when they met any of their enemies, they would pro-
voke them of their own accord to kill them. For after the city was
taken, not a Theban asked any quarter from a Macedonian, not a
a
man that sordidly bowed down at the feet of the conqueror. Neither
had the enemy any pity, notwithstanding the valour of the miserable
people; nay, the whole day (though it was long) was judged too
short to satiate their most cruel revenge. The whole city was
plurdered, poor children, boys and girls, were dragged up and
down, calling upon their mothers, by their names, with most la-
mentable outcries. And to comprehend all in a few words, whole
families, with all their kindred, were hurried away, and the whole
body of the people brought under miserable slavery. The bodies of
Vol. 2, No.42,
?
170
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
!
some of the Thebans, as they lay wounded upon the ground, though
they were upon the point of expiring, yet clasping their enemy in their
arms, breathed out their last with a sort of joy and content that their
enemy died with them.
Others, though they had but a mere
trunk of a spear to lean upon, yet fought with whomsoever they met:
and so by that last attempt made it evident, how far they preferred
their liberty before their lives. And though there was so great a
slaughter made, that every part of the city was filled with dead car-
casses, yet none that saw the miserable condition of these poor
wreiches pitied then). For even the Grecians, as the Thespians,
Platzans, Orchomenians, and some others who hated the Thebans,
(and who then bore arms under the king), broke in with others into
the city, and amongst these dreadful slaughters executed their ma-
lice upon them. So that many sad spectacles of most inhuman cruelty
might be seen throughout the whole eity, Grecians butchering Gre-
cians without any compassion, and those of the same language, blood,
and nation, without any regard to any of these obligations, knocked
on the head one by another. At length, when night came, the
houses were pillaged, women, young and old, were dragged out of the
temples, (whither they had fled), and most vilely and filthily abused.
There were killed of the Thebans above sis thousand, and three
thousand made captives, and a vast treasure carried away. Above five
hundred of the Macedonians were slain, whom the king took care to
bury. Presently after, the king caused the general senate of Greece
to meet, and referred it to their determination how Thebes should
be dealt with. When the matter came to be debated, some who
bated the Thebans were for putting them all to the sword; and made
it appear how they had joined with the barbarians against the Greeks,
For in the time of Xerxes, they joined as confederates with the Per-
sians against Greece, and were the only Grecians that were honoured
as friends by the Persian king, and their ambassadors placed and pre-
ferred before kings. These, and such like, being remembered and
enforced, they so incited the senators against the Thebans, that they
decreed_That the city should be razed to the ground, and the cap-
tives sold for slaves; that all the fugitives of Thebes should be driven
out of all parts of Greece, and no Theban should be entertained by
any Grecian. Hereupon the king, according to the decree, razed
the city, which struck a terror into all the Grecians that had revolted.
By the sale of the captives, he raised four hundred and forty talents
of silver.
After this, he sent to Athens to demand ten of the orators to be
delivered up to him, (amongst whom Demosthenes and Lycurgus
were the chief), because they had stirred up the people agaiust him,
|
Chap. 1.
171
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Upoil which a general assembly was called, and when the ambassa-
dors were introduced, and had delivered their message, the people
were greatly troubled and perplexed, desiring on the one hand to
preserve the honour and dignity of the city, and on the other hand
to consult their own safety, considering the destruction of Thebes, and
that some imminent mischief might befal themselves; and thus they
were made more cautious by their neighbour's misfortunes. At
length, after many speeches made in the assembly upon this account,
Phocion, that good man, who differed from Demosthenes in his poli-
tics, stood up and said_That it would very well become those who
were demanded, to imitate the daughters of Leos* and the Hyacin-
thidest, by offering up their lives of their own accord to prevent the
ruin of their country. And he told them_That it was baseness and
cowardice to refuse to die for the preservation of the city.
At this motion the people were highly incensed, and in a popular
tumult threw Phocion out of the senate. Then the people (by a stu-
died speech made by Deinosthenes) being moved to compassion, de-
clared _That they would defend the men to the utmost. At length
Demades, wrought upon (as is reported) by the friends of Demos-
thenes, for five talents of silver, gave bis opinion for the securing and
preserving of the orators; and read the decree, which was drawn by
himself with great cunning and artifice. In which was contained an
apology for the orators, and a promise_That, if they were guilty,
they themselves would punish them according to the laws.
The people approved and ratified what Demades had read, and
sent him with some others to the king, with orders _That he should
intercede likewise on the behalfof the Theban exiles, that the people
of Athens might lawfully receive and entertain them.
Demades wisely managed his embassy, and by his eloquence pre-
vailed with the king in every respect. For Alexander both pardoned
the orators, and granted all other things the Athenians desired.
Then the king marched back with his army into Macedonia, and
called a general council of his officers and chief friends, and when
they were met together, he asked their opinion..What they thought
of an expedition into Asia? When it was fit to begin the war? and
· how it was to be managed? The counsel, indeed, of Antipater and
Parmenio was That he should first marry and have issue to succeed
.
* Leos had three daughters, Pasithea, Theope, and Eubule, who were willingly sa-
srificed to put an end to a plague in Athens.- Suid.
+ The Hyacinthides were six daughters of Erectheus king of Athens, who offered
theroselves to be sacrificed to gain a victory for their country against Eumolpus king ut
Thrace: so named from a village called Hyacbiuchus, where they were sacrificed..
Suid,
172
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
him, and then set upon matters that were of so great weight and
cernment. But the king, who was naturally fierce, and coul
endure stops and delays in business, rejected their advice. F
said _ It was a mean and unworthy thing for him who was e
general of all Greece, and had the command of an army that
knew what it was to be conquered, to stay at home merely to ma
beget children. Wherefore, after he had set before them the
tages of the war, and had encouraged them to undertake it, h
ed most magnificent sacrifices to the gods at Dium in Macedo
exhibited the sports and plays which his ancestor Archilaus |
stituted to Jupiter and the muses. This solemnity continue
days, according to the number of the muses, a day for every
He provided likewise a pavilion which would contain a hundrer
where he feasted and entertained all his friends and comma
his army, and ambassadors of cities.
After these sumptuous feasts were over, (in which he
kindly entertained a vast number of people, but likewise distributed
parts of the sacrifices, and other things suitable to the magnificence
of the festival amongst his soldiers), he rendezvoused all his forces
from all parts.
CHAP. 11.
Alexander lands his army in Asia. The battle at Granicus. The
forces of the Persians and of Alexander. Alexander kills
Spithrobates ; near being killed by Rhosaces. Miletus besieged
and taken. lda, queen of Caria, meets Alexander. Hali-
carnassus besieged, taken, and sacked. The strange act of the
Marmarenses.
CTESIDES was lord-chancellor of Athens, and Caius Sulpitius,
and Lucius Papirius consuls at Rome, when Alexander at the Helles-
pont passed over his army out of Europe into Asia. Being arrived
at Troas with sixty sail of long ships, he was the first of the Macea.
donians that cast a spear out of the ship, which fixed in the earth
upon the shore, and then leaped out of the vessel, signfying, that by
the help of the gods he had taken possession of Asia, which was
conquered by his spear.
Then he sacrificed to the ghosts of Achilles and Ajax, performing
* Upon which they sal at mcatt
Chap. II.
173
DIODORUS SICULUS,
all other rites and ceremonies proper to the veneration of those he-
roes. When that was done, he took an exact account of the num-
ber of those forces he had transported, which were found to amount
to thirteen thousand* Macedonian foot, seven thousand confederates,
and five thousand mercenaries. Parmenio had the chief command of
all these. Besides these, there were the Odrysæt, Treballians, and
Illyrians, to the number of five thousand, and a thousand darters, ealled
Agrianes; so that in the whole there were thirty thousand foot. For
horse, there were eighteen hundred raised out of Macedonia, under
the command of Philotas, the son of Parmenio. As many out of
Thrace, commanded by Callas, the son of Harpalus. From the rest
of Greece, six hundred led by Eurygius. Besides these, there were
nine hundred Thracians and Peonians in the van, whose commander
was Cassander. The whole body of horse was four thousand five
hundredi. And this is the number of them that landed in Asia with
Alexander.
In the mean time, he left under the command of Antipater, in
Europe, twelve thousand foot, and eleven thousand five huodred
horses.
When he departed from Troas, and came to the temple of Mi-
nervall, the priest called Alexander, seeing the stalue of Ariobar-
zanes (that had been lord-lieutenant of Phrygia) lie prostrate upon
the ground before the temple, and observing several other good
omens, came to the king, and told him.
That he would be con-
queror in a considerable horse engagement, especially if he fought
in Phrygia, and that he should kill a great commander of the enemy
with his own hand. And these things, he said, were foretold him
by the gods, and especially by Minerva, who would be assistant to
him in obtaining his victories.
Alexander, much taken with this prophecy, and relying upon it,
offered to Minerva a most splendid sacrifice, and dedicated his arms
to her, and took away others (that had been laid up there) in their
stead, which he made use of in the first fight afterwards, and gained
a most glorious victory by his own peculiar valour. But this hap-
pened some few days after.
In the mean time, the Persian lord-lieutenants and commanders,
(who through their sloth were not able to put a stop to the progress
of the Macedonians), met together to consult how to manage the war
against Alexander. Memnon, the Rhodian, one there amongst them,
(a very skilful general), was not for fighting, but to give a check to
the Macedonians, by destroying the country all before them, that so
• It should be twelve thousand. + A people of Thrace, of the city Odrysæ.
* But by the particolars, they amount to five thousand one hundred.
The Greek is so, but the Latin fifteen bundred horse.
|| At Ilium.
174
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
they might not be able to march forward for want of provisions: and
was for bringing over both land and sea forces into Macedonia, by
that means to make that the seat of the war. Although this was
sound advice, (as the event made it afterwards evident), yet the rest
of the commanders would not hearken to it, looking upon it as a
thing dishonourable, and much reflecting upon the valour of the
Persians.
All being therefore resolved upon a battle, forces were brought to-
gether from all parts, and the lord-lieutenants being now much supe-
rior in number, marched towards the Hellespont in Phrygia, and en-
camping close by the river Granicus, having the river for a defence
a
between them and the Macedonians.
Alexander having intelligence of the forces of the barbarians, made
a swift march, and came up so close to the enemy, that the river only
separated both armies.
In the mean time, the barbarians stood in battalia at the foot of
the hill, judging it would do their business effectually, and that they
should be sure of the victory, by falling upon them in their passage
over the river, and by that means breaking in pieces the Macedonian
battalion*. But Alexander prevented the enemy, and with great
courage passed over his army about the break of day, and drew up his
men in order of battle. The barbarians drew up the whole body of
their horse against the Macedonians, for they had before resolved to
begin the fight with them. Memnon the Rhodian, and Arsamenes
the lord-lieutenant, with their several regiments of horse, were in
the left wing, supported by Arrites, who commanded the Paphla-
gonian horse; and next to him Spithrobates, lord-lieutenant of Ionia,
with them of Hyrcania. In the left wing were two thousand Me-
dian horse, under the conduct of Arrheomithres, and the like number
from Bactria. In the main body was a vast number of horse of other
nations, of the best and most experienced soldiers; the whole amounta
ing to above ten thousand horse.
The Persian foot were at least a hundred thousand men, who stood
drawn up behind the horse, without moving a foot, because they con-
cluded, that the horse themselves would serve the turn to rout the
Macedonians.
And now the horse charged with great resolution on both sides, es-
pecially the Thessalians in the left wing, under the command of Par-
menio, bearing the brunt of a brisk charge with undaunted courage,
Alexander with the choicest body of horse in the left wing, setting
spurs to his horse, was the first that charged, and rushing into the
thickest of his enemies, made great slaughter amongst them. The
barbarians fought valiantly, striving to outdo the Macedonians, and
* Phalanx.
Chap. II.
175
DIODORUS SICULUS.
fortune at this time brought together the persons of the greatest
quality into this place. For Spitbrobates, the chief governor of
the province of lonia, a Persian, and son-in-law to Darius, a very
valiant man, charged the Macedonians with a great body of horse,
seconded by forty of his guard, all of his kindred, and inferior to
none for valour and courage. With these he put the enemy hard
to it, and attacked those about him with great resolution, killing
some, and wounding others: and, when none were able to contend
with him, Alexander rode up to the barbarian, and fought with him
hand to hand.
Hereupon the Persian, concluding that the gods, of their special
favour to him, had given him the opportunity of a happy combat,
(especially if by his valour he should free all Asia from their fears,
and by his own hands give a check to these audacious attempts of
Alexander that rung through all the world, and prevent the dishonour
of the Persians), was the first that cast his javelin at Alexander, and
with such force and violence, that it pierced through his buckler and
breast-plate, into his right shoulder-blade. The king, plucking out
the dart with his own hand, threw it away, and, setting spurs to his
horse, flew upon the Persian lord-lieutenant with that fierceness and
violence, that he fixed his spear in the middle of his breast. Upon
which the battalions of both armies there near at hand, in admiration
of such a piece of singular valour, set up a great shout. But the
point breaking in the breast-plate, so that the spear pierced no far-
ther, the Persian made at Alexander with his drawn sword, who,
having got another lance, threw it directly into his face, and pierced
him through the head; at which instant Rhosaces, brother to him
that was killed, came swiftly riding up, and gave the king such a
blow, that he cut through his helmet, and wounded him slightly upon
the head; and, just as he was ready to second his stroke, Clitus, sur-
named Niger, posted up, and cut off the hand of the barbarian.
The kinsmen of the two brothers (now both fallen) came round
about them, and at the first plied Alexander with their darts, and then
fell to it hand to hand, and ran through all hazards, that they might
kill Alexander. And, though he was environed with imminent ha-
zards and dangers of his life, yet the throng of his enemies did not at
all daunt bim: for, though he had received three strokes through his
breast-plate, and one cut upon his helmet, and had his buckler, which
he brought from the temple of Minerva, thrice pierced through, yet
he stirred not a foot, but stood his ground against all hazards and
difficulties with undaunted resolution.
In the mean time other brave commanders fell round about him,
amongst whom the most remarkable were Artyaxes, and Pharnaces
:
176
Book XVII.
DIODORUS ŞICULUS.
the brother of Darius, and Mithrobarzanes, the commander of the
Cappadocians; so that many great officers being killed, and all the
troops of the Persians routed and broken by the valour of the Mace-
donians, the first that fell upon Alexander were forced to take to
their heels, and, after them, all the rest.
In this battle, by the confession of all, the valour of Alexander was
cried up above all others; and he was reputed the chief instrument of
the victory. The Thessalian horse managed their troops with that dex-
terity, and fought with that brave resolution, that, next to the king,
they were most highly applauded, and gained exceeding honour and
reputation.
After the horse was routed and fled, the foot, running in one
upon another in confusion, fought awhile; but, amazed and dejected
with the flight of their horse, they likewise turned their backs and
made away.
There were killed in the Persian army above ten thousand foot,
and at least two thousand horse, and above twenty thousand taken
prisoners.
After the battle, the king buried those of his that were slain with
great solemnity, by these honours to encourage his soldiers to fight
the more readily, When he had refreshed his army, he marched for-
ward through Lydia, and came to Sardis, which, with the citadel, and
all the provisions and treasure therein, were voluntarily surrendered to
him by Mithrenest the governor.
In the mean time, those Persians that had escaped out of the bat-
tle, fled, together with their general Memnon, to Miletus, before
which the king afterwards came, and assaulted it continually for se-
veral days together, still relieving his men from time to time with
fresh supplies. The besieged at first easily defended themselves from
the walls; for the city was full of soldiers, and plentifully furnished
with weapons and all other things necessary for enduring a siege,
But, as soon as the king began fiercely to batter the walls with his
engines, and violently to push on the siege both by sea and land, and
the Macedonians had forced their way through a breach of the walls,
putting their enemies to flight in that part, the Milesians forthwith
prostrated themselves as suppliants at the king's feet, and gave up
themselves and the city to his mercy. Some of the barbarians were
killed by the Macedonians, others fled out of the city, and the rest
were all taken. He dealt kindly and mercifully with the Milesians;
but, as for the others, he sold them all for slaves.
And now, having no further use for his navy, and being likewise
cxpensive to maintain, he dismissed his feet, except a few ships
• Or Mithrinnes,
Chap. II.
177
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which he detained for the conveying of his engines of battery, and
other instruments useful for the besieging of towns; among
which
were twenty vessels from Athens.
There are some who say, that this discharging of the fleet proved
Alexander a prudent general: for Darius being on his march, and
it being therefore very likely that a great battle was to be fought, he
conceived that the Macedonians would fight with more resolution
when they saw there was no possibility of flight. And the very same
project he contrived at the battle of Granicus, where he so ordered the
matter, that the river should be at the backs of his soldiers, to the end
that none might have a thought of flying, since the river threatened
certain destruction to them that attempted it.
In following times Agathocles, king of Syracuse, followed this ex-
ample of Alexander, and so gained a glorious victory. For, having
transported a small army into Africa, he set all his ships on fire,
to take away all hope from his soldiers of escaping by flight; by
which means, being forced of necessity to stand to it courageously,
he overcame many thousands of the Carthaginians drawn up against
him.
After the taking of Miletus, both Persians and mercenaries, with
their chiefest commanders, came flocking to Halicarnassus. This
was then the greatest city in Caria, in which was a palace of the kings,
adorned with most curious turrets and citadels.
About the same time Memnon sent away his wife and children to
Darius, as well for their security, as to induce the king, having
such considerable hostages in his hands, to intrust him with more
confidence in the management of the war; which happened accord-
ingly: for Darius presently sent letters to all the inhabitants of the
sea-coasts of Asia, to be observant in every thing to all the commands
of Memnon. Being made, therefore, general of the whole army, he
provided all things necessary for the defence of Halicarnassus against
a siege.
In the mean time, the king sent away his engines of battery, and
corn and provisions, by sea, to Halicarnassus, and he himself, with
his whole army, marched into Caria, and, wherever lie came, he
gained upon the cities by his smooth tongue and courteous behaviour.
The Greek cities especially tasted of his grace and favour, for be
gave all of them liberty to govern according to their own laws, and
ordered that they should be free from tribute, declaring, that he had
undertaken a war against the Persians, for the rights and liberties of
the Grecians.
When he was upon his march, he was met by a woman of volile
birth, called Ada, of the lineage of the king of Caria, who, upon
Vol. 2, No, 42,
AA
178
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
discourse with him concerning the right of her ancestors, entreated him
to restore her to the kingdom of her grandfather, which he gave up to
her, and bid her take it as her own; by wlich bounty to the woman,
he gained the hearts of the Grecians, and all the cities sent their
ambassadors to him; and, presenting him with crowns of gold, pro-
mised and offered to serve him in all things to the utmost of their
power.
Alexander now encamped near to the city, and forthwith assaulted
the town in a furious and terrible manner: for, at the very begin-
ning, his soldiers by turns stormed the walls without any intermis-
sion, so that the conflict continued whole days together. Afterwards,
he brought up all sorts of engines to the walls, and filled up the
trenches before the city, by the help of three machines called snails,
and then with his rams battered down the towers and walls that ran
along between them. Part being thus beaten down, he engaged in
the breach with the enemy, and endeavoured to force his way into the
city over the rubbish. But Memnon easily repulsed the Macedo- ,
nians, (who first assaulted the wall), there being many men within
the city; and in the night, when the engines were brought up, he
made a sally with a great body of men, and set fire to them. Upon
which there were many sharp conflicts before the walls, in which the
Macedonians far excelled the other for valour, but the Persians ex-
ceeded them in number of men, and all warlike provisions. But those
upon the walls were of great advantage to the Persians that were en-
gaged in the sally, by galling their enemies with their darts and ar.
rows, attended with deaths and wounds; shouting of men and sound-
ing of trumpets every where echoed in the air, while the soldiers on
both sides, with loud acclamations, applauded the noble actions of
their several parties.
And now some endeavoured to extinguish the mounting flames of
the engines, and others, engaging with the enemy, made a grievous
slaughter amoug their adversaries. Those within raised up other
walls much stronger, instead of those that were battered down. The
commanders, with Memnon, being in the front, encouraged their
men to stand to it, offering great rewards to such as valiantly behaved
themselves: so that it was incredible with what heat and spirit every
one pushed forward to win the day. Then might be seen some car.
ried out of the army so wounded that they were breathing out their
last; others gathered round the bodies of the dead, and sharply en-
gaged in striving to carry off the bodies, in order to their burials.
others, but even now tired out with wounds and blows, presently
(through the encouragement of the officers) recovering their spirits,
fell to it briskly again.
Chap. II.
179
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Some of the Macedonians (among whom was Neoptolemus, an
honourable person), were slain, even under the city gates. And now
towers and two flankers were battered down; upon which some
drunken soldiers of Perdiccas rashly in the night mounted the walls
of the citadel : but Memnon, understanding what plight they were
in, made a sally, and, being much superior in numbers, repulsed the
Macedonians, and killed many of them, which being noised abroad,
the Macedonians came flocking in to the aid of their fellows; upon
which there was a brisk encounter. At length, when those with
Alexander appeared, and joined with the rest, the Persians flagged,
and were beaten back into the city. Then the king sent a trum-
peter to make a truce, in order to carry off those Macedonians that
were slain before the walls: but Ephialtes and Thrasybulus, both
Athenians, and then in arms for the Persians, gave advice not to
suffer the dead to be buried. However, Memnon granted what the
king desired.
Afterwards Ephialtes, in a council of war, declared his opinion --
That it was not advisable for them to stay till the city was taken,
and so to be made prisoners, but for all the officers, with the merce-
naries, to venture their lives for the safety and security of the rest,
and to sally upon the enemy out of the city. Hereupon Memnon,
perceiving Ephialtes to be prompted to action by an extraordinary
impulse of valour, and placing great confidence in him by reason of
his courage and the strength of his body, agreed to what he had ad-
vised. In order to which, he appointed two thousand mercenaries,
of the best soldiers he could pick out, to sally with him, one half of
whom were commanded to carry along with them lighted fire-brands,
and the other to fall in upon the enemy. About break of day the
gates were suddenly flung open, and the regiments issued out, and
cast their fire-brands among the engines; upon which a great flame
presently appeared. Ephialtes, at the head of others formed into a
deep phalanx, charged upon the Macedonians, who were hastening to
preserve and defend the engines. The king, quick in discerning
what was to be done, placed the chief of the Macedonians in the
front, and some of the chiefest soldiers next, in order to support them;
and to these he added a third battalion, for valour exceeding all the
rest. The whole body he led up himself, and fell upon the enemy,
who seemed (through their firm and close order) to be impenetrable,
and not to be broken by any force whatsoever. ✓
In the mean time he commanded others to go to defend the en-
gines, and quench the fire. Noise and clamour filled the camps,
and the trumpet giving the alarm to battle, they fell to it, fighting
180
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
with more than ordinary valour, ambitious to purchase honour and
renown. The Macedonians easily quenched the fire, but in the con-
flict those with Epbialtes got the better: for, with whomsoever he
engaged, (being of a far stronger body than any of them), he certainly
killed, and those that were upon the new wall slew many with their
darts: for upon this wall there was a wooden tower erected, an hun-
dred cubits high, full of engines for shooting of darts and arrows.
Many therefore of the Macedonians being killed, and the rest re-
treating by reason of the multitude of darts, and Memnon coming in
to the assistance of the Persians with a far greater number, the king
himself knew not well what to do. While those that issued out of
the town thus prevailed, on a sudden the tables were turned: for the
old Macedonians (who by reason of their age were to this time dis-
pensed with, and not called to fight, though formerly victorious in
many battles under King Philip) now, at this very instant, were
stirred up to their antient courage and resolution; and, being both
valiant and expert soldiers, (far beyond all the rest), they upbraided
the cowardice of the fresh-water soldiers, who turned their backs,
with most bitter taunts and reproaches. These presently getting into
a body, and clapping their bucklers one into another, fell in upon the
enemy, (now confident of an assured victory), and, having killed
Ephialtes, and many others, forced the rest into the city; and the
Macedonians, being mixed with the others in the night-time, entered
pell-mell with them within the walls; but the king ordered a retreat
to be sounded, and so they returned into the camp. After this,
Memnon and the rest of the commanders consulted together, and
determined to leave the city. In execution of which resolve, they
left the best of the soldiers to keep the citadel, with sufficient provi-
sion and all other things necessary, and transported themselves, with
the rest of the citizens, and all their wealth, into Coos.
Alexander about spring of day, understanding what was done,
cast a trench, and built a rampart upon it round about the castle,
and razed the city itself to the ground. Then he ordered part of his
army to march farther up into the country, in order to force other
provinces to bis obedience. These forces valiantly brought under
the power of Alexander all the nations as far as to the borders of the
Greater Phrygia, and forced them to find provisions for their army.
Alexander himself subdued all the sea-coast of Asia to Cilicia,
gaining many cities by surrender, and taking several forts and castles
by storm, amongst which there was one that was taken after a won-
derful manner, which, by reason of the rarity of the thing, is not to
be passed over.
Chap. II.
181
DIODORUS SICULUS,
In the utmost borders of Lycia, the Marmarenses*, who inha-
bited upon a great rock, and well fortified, fell upon the rear of Alex-
ander's
army in their march thither, and slew many of the Macedo-
nians, and carried away a great number of prisoners and carriage-
horses. At which the king was so enraged, that he resulved to be-
siege the place, and used his utmost endeavour to gain it. But the
Marmarenses, trusting to their own valour, and the strength of the
place, manfully endured the siege; for they were assaulted two days
together without any intermission, and were assured that the king
would not stir from thence till he had taken the rock. The antient
men, therefore, at the first advised the younger to forbear standing it
out with such violence, and to make peace with the king upon as good
conditions as they could; which, when they denied, and all resolved
to part with their lives and the liberties of their country together, the
graver men then advised them to kill all the old men, women, and
children, and that those who were strong and able to defend thema
selves should break through their enemy's camp in the night, and fly
to the next mountains. The young men approved of the counsel, and
thereupon an edict was made_That every one should go to his own
house, and eat and drink plentifully with his wife, children, and re-
lations, and then expect the execution of the decree. But some of
the young men who were more considerate than the rest (who were
about six hundred in the whole) judged it more advisable to forbear
killing their own kindred and relations with their own hands, but
rather to set the houses on fire, and then to sally out at the gates,
and make to the mountains for their security. This was presently
agreed to, and the thing put in execution; and so every man's house
became his sepulcbre: and the young men themselves broke through
the midst of their enemies, and fled to the hills near at hand. And
these were the chief things done this year.
• Or Marmarians.
182
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. III.
Mitylene taken by Memnon, Darius's general. His successes.
He dies. Charidemus the Athenian unjustly put to death by
Darius. Alexander falls sick: is recovered by Philip. Alex-
ander seizes Alexander of Lyncestes, on account of his mother's
letters. Alexander takes Issus. The memorable battle at
Issus, where the mother, wife, two daughters, and son of Da-
rius were taken. Alexander's noble behaviour towards them.
Darius's letters and offers to Alexander, Darius prepares ang-
ther army.
BUT in the following year, wherein Nicocrates was chief governor
of Athens, and Cæsio Valerius, and Lucius Papirius, succeeded in
the consular dignity at Rome, Darius sent a great sum of money to
Memnon, and declared him general of all his forces. Hereupon he
raised great numbers of men from all parts, and, fitting out a navy
of three hundred sail, applied himself with great diligence to the
prosecution of the war. To that end, he brought in Chios to join
with him. Then he sailed to Lesbos, and presently took Antissa,
Methymna, Pyrrha, and Erissa. But, as for Mitylene and Les-
bos*, because they were much larger, and strongly garrisoned and,
well provided, he gained them not without many assaults, and the
loss of many of his men, though he took them at length, with much
ado. The face of this action being presently noised abroad, many
of the Cyclade islands sent ambassadors to him, to make leagues
with him. Then there was a report spread abroad, that Memnon,
with his whole fleet, was intending to invade Eubea, which put all
the cities into a great consternation. And some of the Grecians,
being brought into the confederacy of the Persians, were heartened
in hopes of a change of their affairs for the better. Besides, Memnon
had corrupted many of the Greeks with money to sail in the same
bottom with the Persians. But fortune put a stop to the progress of
this man's success: for he fell sick of a mortal distemper, and died;
and, by his death, the affairs of Darius went backward; for the kingt
hoped to have transferred the whole weight of the war out of Asia
into Europe.
But, when he heard of the death of Memnon, he called his friends
together, and asked their advice-_Whether he should send a general
* Lesbos, a city in Lesbüs.
Or Peria.
Chap. II.
183
DIODORUS SICULUS.
with the army, or go himself in person, and try his fortune with the
Macedonians. Some were of opinion that the king should go him-
self, for they said that the Persians would then with more cheerful-
ness venture their lives. But Charidemus the Athenian, who was in
great esteem for his valour and prudence as a general, (for, under
Philip he gained great reputation, and was his chief and principal ad-
viser in all his weighty affairs), advised Darius not to lay the kingdom
rashly at stake, but still to continue lord of Asia, and keep the govern-
ment in his own hand, and to appoint an experienced general to ma-
nage the concerns of the war. And he told him, that an hundred
thousand men, of which number a third part should be mercenaries
out of Greece, were sufficient for the expedition, and engaged that
he would see the thing accomplished. The king at first agreed to
what he said; but his friends peremptorily rejected this advice, sus-
pecting that Charidemus sought for the chief command, with a dea
sign to give up all into the power of the Macedonians. Hereupon
Charidemus was in such a rage, that he called them all cowards;
with which words the king was much more offended than before:
and whereas anger never suffers a man to consider wisely before
hand, Darius ordered him to be bound in a belt, (which is the man-
ner of the Persians), and delivered him to his guards to be put to
death; who, when he was being led to execution, cried out_That
the king would in a short time repent of what he had done in this
matter, and would be punished for that unjust judgment against him
by the loss of his kingdom. Thus fell Charidemus from the summit
of all his hopes and expectations, through the unseasonable liberty of
his tongue. But the king, as soon as his anger was over, presently
repented of what he had done, and accused himself as guilty of a
most horrid crime: but the power of a king could not undo that
which was past remedy. Considering, therefore, how valiant the
Macedonians were, and musing upon the courage of Alexander, he
inquired where he might have a fit person to succeed Memnon in
the chief command of the army; and, when none could be found, he
was forced to run the hazard himself for the saving of his kingdom.
He forthwith, therefore, ordered all his forces to be called together
from all parts, and to rendezvous at Babylon. Then he made choice
of such of his kindred and friends as he thought fit, and to some he
gave commands in the army, according to their several qualities, and
others he appointed to attend upon his person, as his life-guards. As
soon as the time before fixed upon for the expedition was come, they
all rendezvoused at Babylon, to the number of four hundred thousand
foot, and an hundred thousand horse. Hence he marched away,
184
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
with this vast number of men, towards Cilicia*, taking along with
him his mother, wife, and children, that is to say, a son and two
daughters.
In the mean time, Alexander (while Memnon was living), hear..
ing how Chios and the cities of Lesbos were surrendered into the
hands of Memnon, and that Mitylene was taken by storm, and that
he was ready to invade Macedonia with a navy of three hundred sail,
and that many of the Grecians were upon the point of revolting),
was very much perplexed and discontented: but, as soon as he heard
of Memnon's death, his mind 'was more at rest. But within a short
time after he fell desperately sick, and, growing worse and worse,
sent for physicians, who, when they came, were all afraid to adminis-
ter any thing, looking upon him as irrecoverable: but there was one
Philip of Acarnania, (whose practice it was commonly to make use of
desperate medicines), who promised to cure him by a potion: the
king hereupon readily complied with this, especially because he beard
Darius was on his march from Babylon. Then the physician de-
livered the potion, which, through the art and skill of Philip, and the
advantage of the natural strength of the patient, presently cured
the king; who being thus, beyond all hope, recovered, bountifully
rewarded the physician, and received him into the number of his most
faithful friends.
About the same time Alexander received letters from his mother,
wherein (among other things which she thought fit to advise him of)
she wished him to have a care of Alexander of Lyncestest, who was
a very valiant man, and of a generous disposition, and not inferior to
any for his faithfulness to Alexander. But, many things concurring
that seemed to fortify the accusation, he was seized and committed
to custody, in order to his legal trial. But Alexander, having intelli,
gence that Darius was within a few day's march, sent Parmenio be-
fore with the army, to gain the passes and the gates I, as they were
called; who, marching away with all speed, possessed himself of
them, beating off the barbarians, who were there before him. Da-
rius, that he might march with more ease, had left all his heavy bage
gage and rabble behind him at Damascus, a city of Syria. Hence
he marched with all the speed he could, hearing that Alexander had
previously possessed himself of all the difficult passes and places, as
not daring to fight in the plain and open field, as he supposed. The
inhabitants of all the places through which Alexander had passed,
slighting the inconsiderable number of the Macedonians, and
• Cilicia, now Carmania, in the Turkish dominions. † In Macedonia,
Syriæ Pilæ, or the gates of Syria.
Chap. III.
185
DIODORUS SICULUS.
1
frightened at the approach of the vast army of the Persians, without
any regard to Alexander, sided with Darius, and readily supplied
the Persians with provisions and all other necessaries, and, by the
rule of their own opinions, adjudged the victory before-hand to the
barbarians.
In the mean time, Alexander had possessed himself of Issus*,
(surprised with the fear of his army), a considerable city of Cilicia;
and, understanding by his spies that Darius was not above thirty
furlongs distant, and that he was even now approaching, with his
army so provided and in that order as to make them terrible to all,
he judged that the gods highly favoured him, in putting such an op-
portunity into his hands, as that, by the gaining of one victory, he
should ruin the whole empire of Persia. Hereupon he stirred up
the spirits of his soldiers, (by a speech for the occasion), encourag-
ing them to fight manfully, now all lay at stake. His regimeots of
foot and squadrons of horse he posted as the place and ground would
best allow: the horse was placed before the whole body of the foot,
which were ordered behind so as to support and relieve the horse.
Being in the right wing himself, he marched on towards the enemy
with the choicest of the horse. The Thessalian borse were in the
left, for valour and skill far excelling all the rest. And now the
armies came within the cast of a dart one of another, upon which
there flew such a shower of darts from the barbarians against them
with Alexander, that, through their multitude, they so brushed in
their flight one upon another, that their force was much abated, and
they did little harm. Then presently the trumpets on both sides
sounded a charge, and the Macedonians were the first that set up a
great shout, which being answered by the barbarians, all the hills
and mountains there near at hand echoed with the noise. But the
shout of the barbarians far exceeded the other, being made by five
hundred thousand men at once.
Then Alexander looked every where round about to spy out Da-
rius, whom having found, he made at him (with those horse that
were with him) with all the speed imaginable, desiring not so much
to conquer the Persians, as to gain the present victory by bis own
personal valour. In the mean time, the whole body of horse engaged,
great slaughter being made on both sides; but the valour of those
engaged caused the victory to hang a long time in suspense, appeare
ing sometimes here and sometimes there, by changes and turns. No
dart cast or stroke given by any was in vain, but did some execution,
for in such a multitude the mark was sure to be hit. So that great
numbers were wounded, and others, fighting to their last breath,
* Issus, dow Laiazzo, under the Turks.
VOL. 2, No. 42,
BB
186
Book Xvii.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
chose rather to lose their lives, than part with their honour. And
the officers, at the head of their regiments, so bravely behaved them
selves, that they put life and courage into the common soldiers.
There might then be seen all sorts of wounds, and as various and
sharp contests for victory. Oxathres, a Persian, and brother of Da-
rius, a very valiant man, as soon as he saw Alexander make so
fiercely at Darius, was resolved to undergo the same fortune with his
brother, and therefore charged Alexander's body with the best of
the horse he could make choice of out of his own troops, and, know-
ing that his love to his brother would advance his fame and reputa-
tion above all other things among the Persians, he fought close by
his chariot, and with that courage and dexterity, that he laid many
dead at his feet; and, inasmuch as the Macedonians were as resolute
on the other side not to move a foot, the dead bodies rose up in
heaps round about the chariot of Darius. And, every one striving to
lay hold of the king, both sides fought with great obstinacy, without
any regard of their lives. In this conflict many of the Persian no-
bility were slain, amongst whom were Antixyes and Rheomitres, and
Tasiaces, the lord-lieutenant of Egypt. And many of the Macedo-
nians likewise; and Alexander himself (compassed round by the
enemy) was wounded in the thigh. The chariot-horses of Darius,
receiving many wounds, and frightened at the multitude of carcases
that lay in heaps round about them, grew so unruly, that they would
have hurried Darius into the midst of his enemies, if he had not in
this extremity caught hold of the reins himself, being forced thus to
make bold with the laws of the Persians, in debasing the majesty of
the Persian kings. In the mean time, his servants brought to him
another chariot, and, while he was ascending this, there arose a great
tumult, insomuch that Darius himself (by the enemy pressing hard
upon him) was in a great terror and consternation; which, when
some of the Persians discerned, they began first to fly, and the horse
that were next following the example of their fellows, at length all
made away as fast as they could. The places being narrow and
strait, in their haste they trod down one another, and many perished
without a stroke from the enemy; for they lay in heaps, some with
their arms, others without them; some held their naked swords so
long in their hands, that their fellow-soldiers ran themselves upon
them, and so were slain. But many got away into the open plain,
and, by the swiftness of their horses, escaped to the several cities of
the allies.
During this time, the Macedonian phalanx* and the Persian foor
fought awhile; for the fight of the horse was the prelude to the
Battalivn, about eight thousand foot.
>
Chap. III.
187
DIODORUS SICULUS.
victory. The barbarians therefore taking to their heels, and so many
thousands making away through the same straits, all places there-
abouts were in a short time covered with dead carcases; but the Per-
sians, by the advantage of night, got away here and there into seve-
ral places of shelter.
The Macedonians therefore left off the pursuit, and betook them-
selves to the rifling of the camp, especially the king's pavilion, be-
cause there were the richest booties; so that there was found and
carried thence vast sums of gold and silver, and exceeding rich gar-
ments and furniture; an abundance likewise of treasure belonging to
his friends and kindred, and the commanders of bis army: for the
wives not only from the king's household, but from the families of
bis kindred and attendants, mounted in chariots glittering with gold,
(according to the custom of the Persians), accompanied the camp in
their march from place to place. And every one of these (through
their luxury and delicateness, to which they had commonly inured
themselves) carried with them abundance of rich furniture, and a
multitude of beautiful women. But the captive ladies were then in
a must miserable condition: for they who before, by reason of their
nicety, could scarcely be placed in their stately chariots so as to
please them, and had their bodies so attired as that no air might
touch them, now rent their garments in pieces, and, scarce with one
simple veil to cover their nakedness, threw themselves shrieking out
of their chariots, and, with their eyes and lands lifted up to heaven,
cast themselves down at the feet of the conquerors. Some with
their trembling hands pulled off all their jewels and ornaments from
their own bodies, and ran up steep rocks and craggy places, with
their hair flying about their ears; and thus meeting in throngs to-
gether, some called for help from those who wanted the relief of
others as much as themselves; some were dragged along by the hair
of their heads, others were stripped naked, and then killed, and some-
times cudgelled to death with the heavy ends of the soldier's lances.
Nay, even all manner of disgrace and contempt was poured upon
the glory of the Persiaus, so famous and honourable heretofore all the
world over.
But the more sober and moderate of the Macedonians, seeing that
strange turn of fortune, much pitied the condition of those miser-
able creatures, who had lost every thing that was near and dear to
them in this world, and were now environed with nothing but stran-
gers and enemies, and fallen into miserable and dishonourable cap-
tivity. But the mother of Darius, and his wife, and two daughters,
now marriageable, (and his little son especially), drew tears from the
eyes of the beholders; for their sad change of fortune, and the great-
188
Book XVI
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ness of their sudden and unexpected calamity, (presented thus to
their view), could not but move them to a compassionate considera-
tion of their present condition: for, as yet, it was not known whether
Darius was alive or dead. And in the mean time they* perceived his
tent pillaged and rifled by armed men, who knew no difference of
persons, and therefore committed many indecent and unworthy ac-
tions, and saw likewise all Asia brought under the power of a con-
quering sword as well as themselves. The wives of the governors of
the provinces that fell at theirt feet to beg protection, were so far
from finding relief, that they themselves earnestly prayed them to
rescue them out of their present calamity.
Alexander's servants, having possessed themselves of Darius's
tents, prepared the tables and baths wbich were used by Darius him-
self, and lighted up many lamps, in expectation of the king, that at
his return from the pursuit he might take possession of all the furni-
ture of Darius, as an earnest of the empire and government of all Asia.
Of the barbarians there fell in this battle above an hundred and twenty
thousand foot, and no fewer than ten thousand horse. Of the Mace-
doniaus, three hundred foot, and an hundred and fifty horse. And
this was the issue of the battle at Issus.
But to return to the kings themselves: Darius with all his army
being thus routed, fled, and, by changing from time to time one
horse after another, the best he had, he made away with all speed,
to escape out of the hands of Alexander, and to get to the governors
of the upper provinces. But Alexander, with the best of his horse
and chiefest of his friends, pursued him close at the very heels,
earnestly longing to be master of Darius. But, after he had ridden
two hundred furlongs, he returned at midnight into the camp; and,
having refreshed his weary body in the baths, went to supper, and
then to his rest.
In the mean time, one came to the mother of Darius, and told her
that Alexander was returned from the pursuit of Darius, and had
possessed himself of all the rich spoils of his tent. Upon which there
was heard a great shriek and lamentation amongst the women,
and, from the multitude of the captives condoling with the queen at
the sad news, all places were filled with cries of anguish and horror.
The king, understanding what sorrow there was among the women,
sent Leonatus, one of his courtiers, to them, to put an end to their
fears, and to let Sisygambis, the mother of Darius, know that her
son was alive, and that Alexander would have respect to their former
dignity; and that, to confirm the promise of his generosity by his ac-
• The women-captives, Darius's wife, children, and mother.
* Oi the queen and queen-mother of Persia,
Chap. III.
189
DIODORUS SICULUS.
tions, he would come and discourse with them the day following.
Whereupon the captives were so surprised with the sudden and happy
turn of their fortunes, that they honoured Alexander as a god, and
their fears were turned into exultations of joy.
The king, as soon as it was light, (with Hephæstion, one of the
trustiest of his friends) went to visit the queens. When they en-
tered, being both habited alike, Sisygambis, taking Hephæstion for
the king, (because he was the more comely and taller man), fell
prostrate at his feet; but the attendants, by the nods of their heads,
and pointing of their fingers, directed her to Alexander: whereupon,
being much ashamed and out of countenance, by reason of the mis-
take, she saluted Alexander in the same manner she had done the
other. Upon which he lifted ber up, and said – Mother, trouble not,
nor perplex yourself; for that man also is Alexander.
By which
courteous and obliging title of mother to a grave and honourable
matron, he gave a clear demonstration of the respects and civilities he
,
intended towards them all.
Having therefore owned her for a second mother, he presently
confirmed his words by his actions: for he ordered her to be clothed
in her royal robes, and restored her to all the honours becoming her
former state and dignity. For he gave her all her attendants and
household servants and furniture allowed her by Darius, and added
also as much more of his own bounty. He promised likewise to dis-
pose of the young ladies in marriage far better than if their father
had provided husbands for them; and that he would educate the
king's little son as carefully and honourably as if he were his own.
Then he called him to him, and kissed him; and, taking notice that
he was not at all ashamed, nor seemed to be in the least affrighted,
turning to Hephæstion and those about him, “ This youth, but six
years of age,” said he, “ carries in his countenance marks of a stout
and brave spirit, above his age, and is better than his father.” He
further declared_That he would take care of the wife of Darius,
that she should want for nothing, in order to the support and main-
tenance of her royal state and former prosperity. Many other kind
and gaining expressions he used, insomuch that the ladies fell a-
weeping in showers of tears, out of transports of joy, upon account
of the greatness of their unexpected felicity. After all, he at length
put forth to them his right hand to kiss, upon which not only they
who were immediately honoured with those kindnesses set forth his
praise, but even the whole army cried up his incomparable grace and
clemency. And, indeed, I conceive that amongst the many brave
and noble acts of Alexander, none of them were greater than this, or
more worthy by history to be handed down to posterity: for storming
>
190
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and taking of cities, gaining of battles, and other successes in war,
are many times the events of fortune, more than the effects of valour
and virtue; but to be compassionate to the miserable, and those that
lie at the feet of the conqueror, must be the fruit only of wisdom and
prudence. For many by prosperity grow haughty, and are so far
swelled with pride by the favourable blasts of fortune, that they are
careless and forgetful of the common miseries of mankind; so that
it is common to see many sink under the weight of their prosperous
successes, as a heavy burthen they are not able to bear,
Therefore, though Alexander was many ages before us who are now
living, yet the remembrance of his virtue justiy challenges honour
and praise from all those that succeeded him in future generations.
As for Darius, being now got to Babylon, he mustered up his
broken troops that had escaped from the battle at Issus; and, though
he had received so great an overthrow, he was not at all discouraged,
but wrote letters to Alexander, whereby he advised him to use his
good fortune and success moderately, and offered bim a great sum of
money for the ransom of the captives: he promised, likewise, to give
up to him all that part of Asia, with the cities which lay on that side,
within the course* of the river Halyst, if he were willing to be his
friend.
Whereupon Alexander called a council of war, and laid before
them such letters as he judged most for his own advantage, but con
cealed the true ones; by which contrivance the ambassadors were
dismissed without any effect of their embassy.
Darius therefore concluding that things were not to be composed
by letters, employed himself wholly in making preparations for war.
To this end, he armed those soldiers that had lost their arms in the
late unfortunate battle, and raised others, and formed them into regi-
ments. He sent, likewise, for the forces he had through haste left.
behind him in the upper provinces when he first began his expedition,
To conclude, he was so earnest and diligent in recruiting his army,
that they were now twice as many as they were at Issus; for they
made up a body of eight hundred thousand foot, and two hundred
thousand horse, besides a vast multitude of hooked chariots. These
considerable actions were the events of this year.
This was all Natolią.
Now Casilimer, in Paphlagonia.
Chap. IV.
191
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. IV.
Alexander marches towards Egypt: besieges Tyre. Prodigies
at Tyre. The Tyrians bind Apollo with golden chains. The
inventions of the Tyrians to defend themselves. The advance-
ment of Ballominus, a poor man, to be king of Tyre. The
acts of Agis and Amyntas. Amyntas killed, and all his sol-
diers. Alexander takes Gaza by storm: is presented by the
Grecians,
NICERATUS was chief governor of Athens, and Marcus Attilius
and Marcus Valerius were consuls at Rome, when the hundred and
twelfth Olympiad was celebrated, wherein Grylus of Chalcedon was
victor.
Alexander, after the battle of Issus, caused both his own, and those
likewise of the enemy's that were of greatest repute for valour, to le
buried. After he had sacrificed and given thanks to the gods, he
bountifully rewarded all such as had valiantly behaved themselves,
every one according to his merit. After which, he gave liberty to
his soldiers for some days to recreate and refresh themselves. Thence
marching with his army towards Egypt, as he came into Phænicia
other cities readily submitted to him, and were received into his pro-
tection. But Tyre was the only city which obstinately denied him
entrance, when he desired it, in order to sacrifice to Hercules Tyrius;
at which Alexander was so enraged, that he threatened to storm
and take it by force of arms. But the Tyrians resolved to stand it
out, because they thought thereby to ingratiate themselves with Da-
rius; and that, for their faithfulness and loyalty to him, they con-
cluded he would bountifully reward them, who, by that means, had
gained him more time to recruit his army, while Alexander was de-
tained in a troublesome and dangerous siege. And besides, they
placed their confidence in the strength of the island, and their plenti-
ful provision of all things necessary, and in the Carthaginians, from
whom they were descended.
The king therefore, though he foresaw that it would be a very dif.
ficult matter to carry on the siege, by reason of the sea, and that they
were so well provided with all things for the defence of the walls,
and had a strong navy, and that the city was separated from the
continent, so that nothing could be effectually put in execution, yet
he judged it more for his honour to undergo all sorts of hazards, than
192
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
for the Macedonians to be baffled with one city, and that too not al-
together so difficult to be gained.
He forthwith therefore demolished Old Tyre, as it was then called,
and by the stones, carried by many thousands of men, raised a mole
two hundred feet in breadth, which, by the help of the inhabitants
of the neighbouring cities, (who were all called in for that purpose),
was presently despatched. The Tyrians, in the mean time, from
their ships laughed and jeered at the king, and asked him whether
he supposed himself stronger than Neptune. Afterwards, when
they perceived (beyond whatever they thought could be done) that
the mole still increased, and was likely soon to be finished, they de-
creed to transport their wives, children, and old people to Carthage;
and those that were young men were kept, some of them to guard
the walls, and others for sea-service, for they had a fleet of fourscore
sail. At length they sent away part of their wives and children, in
order to sail by the enemy for Carthage; but, being prevented by the
multitude of those that were at work, and not in a fit pesture to fight
at sea, they were all forced to return, and abide the siege. And,
though they were plentifully supplied with engines to shoot arrows,
darts, and stones, and all other machines and instruments fit and
necessary for the defence of the walls against any assault; yet they
readily furnished themselves, as they had occasion, with many more,
for Tyre was full of gun-smiths, and artificers of all sorts. So that,
being supplied by these workmen with many new-invented engines,
every place round the walls was filled with them, especially towards
that side where the mole was raised.
And now the work was brought by the Macedonians within the
cast of a dart, when presently a prodigy from the gods appeared to
a
them who were thus threatened: for the working of the sea cast a
whale of an incredible bigness to the side of the mole; and there it
lay, without doing any harm, but remained there a good while, lean-
ing one side of its body to the work, which struck the beholders with
much terror and amazement. After it was gone, and returned into
the sea, both parties went to their divinations, and each (severally
concluding as they would desire to have it) made this construc-
tion_That by this sign was portended, that Neptune would aid and
assist them.
There was another prodigy likewise happened, which greatly a-
mazed the common people: for, when the Macedonians were at
meat, the faces of those that broke the bread seemed to be all over
blowzy; and one of Tyre affirmed that he saw a vision, by which
Apollo told him that he would forsake the city. And, because the
common people suspected that he spoke this in favour of Alexan-
Chap. IV.
193
DIODORUS SICULUS.
der's
party,
the
young men would have stoned him to death, but he
was rescued by the magistrates, and fled into the temple of Her-
cules; and so, through his pious supplication, he escaped so immi-
pent a danger.
Upon this, the Tyrians, to prevent Apollo's leaving the city, fas-
tened his image to the pedestal with golden chains. But the citi-
zens, being put into a great fright by the increase of the mole,
loaded many little boats with engines to shoot arrows and darts;
and with slingers and archers; who, setting upon them that were
at work, wounded and killed many of them: for, showers of arrows
and darts being discharged upon throngs of naked men, none missed
their mark, because they all lay open and exposed to every shot,
without any defence; for they were not only wounded with darts
in front, but through the narrowness of the mole) they were likewise
galled in the rear, it being impossible for any one to guard both
sides at once.
Alexander therefore, that he might repair the sudden and unex
pected loss, with all the speed he could manned as many ships as he
had, and went on board as admiral himself, and made it his business
to get into the haven of Tyre, in order to intercept the Phænicians
in their return. Hereupon the barbarians, fearing tliat if he gained
the haven he would take the city itself, (those who should defend it
being now out at sea), made all the haste they could to return to
the city. And, indeed, both sides plied their oars with all their
might, in order to be the first. But the Macedonians just entering
the port before the other, the Phænicians were every man upon the
point of being cut off; but, forcing their way through their enemies,
they returned into the city, with the loss of some of those vessels
which lagged behind. However, though the king missed of his de-
sign, yet he eagerly set to his work again for the finishing of the
mole, and, by a considerable number of vessels, guarded the work
for the future.
The work being brought near to the city, and the town now in a
probability of being taken, on a sudden a violent storm of wind arose,
and tore away part of the mole: which so perplexed Alexander, that
he repented of having begun the siege. But, however, being urged
forward by an unquenchable thirst after glory, be caused trees of an
incredible magnitude to be cut down in the mountains, and brought
thither, and with their branches and earth piled together gave a check
to the violence of the stream.
Having, therefore, presently repaired the breach that was made,
the mole, by the help of many hands, was brought again within the
cast of a dart, and, by engines mounted upon it, he battered dowa
Vol.2, No. 42,
cc
194
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the walls, and, by shot with darts and arrows out of engines, beat off
the enemy from the bulwarks: with these, likewise, both archers
and slingers plied the besieged, and grievously wounded and galled
many of the townsmen upon the walls. But the Tyrians, being ac-
customed to the sea, and having many artificers and contrivers of
engines, used many arts and ingenious inventions to preserve them-
selves: for, against the shot, they contrived wheels with many
spokes, which, being whirled about by an engine, shattered in pieces
some of the darts and arrows, and turned off others, and broke the
force of all the rest; and, to give a check to the violence of the stones
that were shot out of the ballistas, they prepared wool-packs, and
other things that were soft and pliant, to receive them.
But the king, not contented to assault the city only from the mole,
girt the town round with his whole fleet, and diligently viewed all
parts of the walls, as if he resolved to besiege the place both by sea
and land. The Tyrians not daring to engage him at sea, he de-
stroyed three ships that were then by chance in the mouth of the
harbour, and then returned to his camp. But the Tyrians, that they
might make their walls as strong again as they were before, raised
another wall, ten cubits broad, and five cubits distant from the for-
mer, and filled the empty space between the two walls with earth
and stones.
Alexander likewise made a battery, by joining many of his ships
together, and planted upon them all sorts of rams and battering en-
gines, whereby he beat down a hundred feet of the wall, and at-
tempted to break into the city over the ruins: upon which the Ty-
rians discharged a shower of darts and arrows, and, with much ado,
repulsed the enemy, and the night following repaired that part of the
wall which bad been battered down.
But, after that the passage to the city, by the joining of the mole
close to the walls, was made, as if it had been a peninsula, there were
many and sharp contests both to gain and defend the walls: for,
though they had imminent destruction before their eyes, and the
miseries attendant upon a town's being taken by storm, yet they were
so resolved to go through all dangers, that they despised death itself.
For, when the Macedonians approached with towers of that height
that they equalled the battlements, and cast out plauks, whereof one
of the ends lay upon the top of the ramparts, and so by a bridge
mounted the walls, the Tyrians, by the ingenuity of their artificers,
were supplied with many sorts of engines and weapons for their efa
fectual defence: as, amongst others, they had very great three-forked
books, which they cast close at hand, and therewith wounded them
Tridents, the invention of the Tyrians
Chap. IV.
195
DIODORUS SICULUS.
in the towers, (to which were fastened cords, one end whereof they
held themselves), and, by fixing these in the targets of their ene-
mies, they plucked them out of their hands: for, to that necessity
and strait the Macedonians were brought, that they must either stand
naked and exposed (without defensive arms) to a multitude of darts
and arrows, and so be wounded to death, or else, out of a point of
honour, to stick to their arms, and so perish, by being plucked head-
long out of the towers. Others threw fishing-nets upon them that
were engaged upon the bridges laid to the walls, and so entangled
their hands, that they drew them off, and tumbled them headlong to
the ground.
Another wonderful invention they found out against the Macedo-
nians, whereby they grievously plagued the chiefest of their ene-
mies, which was this: they filled their iron and brazen shields with
sand, and heated them in the fire till the sand was scorching hot,
which by an engine they threw upon them that were chiefly engaged,
whereby they were cruelly tormented; for, the sand getting within
their breast-plates and coats of mail, and grievously scorching their
flesh, no remedy could be applied for the cure of the malady: so that
(though they made most bitter complaints, as men upon the rack)
yet there were none who were able to help them, insomuch that they
grew mad by the extremity of the torture, and died in the height of
inexpressible torments.
In the mean time, the Phænicians never ceased casting fire-darts
and stories at their enemies, so that they were scarce able to endure
it, the multitude was so excessive. Moreover, with long poles with
sharp hooks at the end, they cut the cords of the battering-rams in
pieces, (which forced them forwards), whereby the force of the en-
gine was lost: and they shot out of machines for the purpose large
massy pieces of red hot iron into the midst of great multitudes of
the assailants, which, by reason of the number of those against whom
they were discharged, were sure to do execution. They plucked,
likewise, men in armour from off the ramparts with iron instruments
called crows, and others shaped like men's hands. And, having
many hands at work, they eluded all the enemy's engines, and killed
multitudes of them. And, although the service was so amazing,
and the conflict so sharp, that it was scarcely to be endured, yet the
Macedonians remitted nothing of their antient valour, but made
their way over the bodies of those that were slain, not at all dis.
couraged by the misfortunes of others. In the mean time, Alex-
ander battered the walls with massy stones shot out of his engines,
and grievously galled the besieged with arrows and darts, and all
sorts of shot, from the wooden towers. To prevent this mischief,
196
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the Tyrians placed marble wheels before the walls, which were turned
round by certain engines, and with these they either broke the darts
in pieces, or so threw them off, that they were ineffectual. And, to
allay the force of the stones shot against the wall, they sowed toge-
ther hides and skins oiled over to receive them, which, meeting with
what was soft and pliant, their force was thereby much abated.
To conclude, the Tyrian's were not short in any thing whereby
their valour might be made to appear for the defence of the place,
And, being sufficiently supported with fresh aid, they were the more
courageous, and to that degree, that they left the walls and towers,
and leaped out upon the bridges to oppose the assailants, and, hand
to hand, fought smartly in defence of their country. There were some
who, with axes, cut off whole limbs at once of all that were in their
way. For, among the rest, there was one Admetus, a Macedonian
captain, a strong and valiant man, who, in the heat of his contest
with the Tyrians, had his head cloven in the middle with an axe, and
so perished.
Alexander, seeing that the Tyrians had the best of it, and night
approaching, sounded a retreat. And, indeed, at first he had thoughts
of raising the siege, and going on with his expedition into Egypt,
But he presently changed his mind, looking upon it as base and dis-
honourable to give up all the glory to the Tyrians; and therefore he
set himself again to carry on the siege, though he had only one of his
friends called Amyntas, the brother of Andromenes, who approved of
his resolution
Having, therefore, encouraged the Macedonians to stick to him,
and furnished his fleet with all things necessary, he besieged the city
both by sea and land: and, observing that that part of the wall near
the arseval was weaker than the rest, he brought all his gallies,
(which carried his best engines), chained fast together, to that place.
There he attempted an act which the beholders scarcely believed,
though they saw it with their eyes. For he cast a plank from a
wooden tower, with one end upon the battlements of the walls, as a
bridge, and by this himself alone mounted the rampart, not regarding
any danger, nor in the least affrighted with the violent assaults of the
Tyriaus; but, in the vicw of that army which had conquered the
Persians, he shewed his own personal valour, and called to the Mace-
donians to follow him, and was the first that came hand to hand with
the enemy; and, killing some with his spear, others with his sword,
and tumbling down many with the boss of his buckler, he thus al-
layed the courage of his adversaries.
In the mean time, the rains battered down a great part of the wall
in another place. And now the Macedonians entered through the
Chap. IV.
197
DIODORUS SICULUS,
breach on one side, and Alexander with his party passed over the
wall in another, so that the city was now taken; yet the Tyrians
valiantly exerted themselves, and, encouraging one another, guarded
and blocked up all the narrow passes, and fought it out to the last
man, insomuch that above seven thousand were cut in pieces upon
the place. The king made all the women and children slaves, and
hung up all the young men that were left, to the number of two
thousand. And there were found so great a number of captives, that,
though the greatest part of the inhabitants were transported to Car-
thage, yet the remainder amounted to thirteen thousand. Into such
great miseries tell the Tyrians, after they had endured a siege of seven
months with more obstinacy than prudence.
Then the king took away the golden chains from the image of
Apollo, and caused that god to be called Apollo Philaxandrus*.
When he had offered splendid sacrifices to Hercules, and rewarded
those who had signalized their valour, he honourably buried the dead,
and made oue Ballominus king of Tyre. But it would be a thing
justly to be condemned to neglect to give a further account of this
man, whose advancement and wonderful change of condition was so
extraordinary
After Alexander had gained the city, Strato, the former prince, by
reason of his faithfulness to Darius, was deprived of the command:
upon which the king gave power and liberty to Hephæstion to bestow
the kingdom of Tyre upon which of his friends he pleased. Hephæs-
tion hereupon, being inclined to gratify one who had courteously en-
tertained him, resolved to invest him with the principality of Tyre;
but he, though he was very rich and honourable, above the rest of
his fellow-citizens, yet (because he was not of the lineage of the
kings) refused it. Then Hephæstion wished him to name some one
that was of the royal blood; he thereupon told him of one who was
a very prudent and good man, but extremely poor. Hephæstion
hereupon granted the principality to him, and the officer assigned for
that purpose was sent away with the royal robes, and found him in
an orchard, in rags, drawing of water for his hire. Having informed
him of the change and alteration in his condition, he clothed him
with the robe and other ornaments becoming his state and dignity,
and then introduced him into the forum, and there declared him
king of Tyre. Which unexpected and wonderful occurrence was very
acceptable to the people.
Thus he obtained the kingdom, and was ever after a most faithful
friend to Alexander, and an example to all who are unacquainted with
* That is, a lover of Alexander,
198
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the sudden and various turns of fortune in this world. Having now
related the acts of Alexander, we shall turn to affairs elsewhere.
In Europe, Agis, king of Lacedæmon, having enlisted eight thousand
mercenaries who escaped from the battle at Issus, began some new
disturbances in favour of Darius: for, having received from him a
great sum of money and a fleet, he sailed into Crete, and, reducing
many towns there, he forced them to side with the Persians. Amyn-
tas likewise, an exile of Macedonia, who had fled to Darius, and sided
with the Persians in Cilicia, escaping with four thousand mercenaries
out of the battle of Issus, passed over to Tripolis, in Phænicia, before
Alexander's arrival; and there he made choice only of so many of
the navy as would transport his soldiers, and burnt the rest. With
these he sailed to Cyprus, and from thence, being well furnished with
soldiers and shipping, he passed over to Pelusium, and, having en-
tered the city, he pretended that Darius had sent him to be their ge-
neral, because the late governor of Egypt was killed in the battle in
Cilicia. Thence he sailed to Memphis, and routed the inhabitants
in a field-fight near to the city; who not long after fell upon the
soldiers, straggling out of the town, and plundering the country, as
they were in that disorder, carrying away what they could get, cut off
Amyntas and every man with him.
In this manner Amyntas, as he was projecting great matters, was
suddenly disappointed, and lost his life. So likewise other officers
and captains of the army that survived the battle of Issus still adhered
to the Persian interest: for some secured convenient cities and garri-
sons for Darius, and others procured several provinces to raise soldiers
for him, and provide other things necessary, as the present exigency
of affairs required.
In the mean time, the general senate of Greece made a decree to
send fifteen ambassadors to present a golden crown to Alexander, in
congratulation of his victory at Issus, who was at that time besieging
Gaza, a garrison of the Persians, which he took by assault, after a
two months siege.
Chap. V.
199
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. V.
Alexander makes a journey to the temple of Jupiter Ammon.
He is presented by the Cyreneans. The description of the place
about the temple. The wonderful properties of the fountain
Solis, The building of Alexandria. Alexander's answer to
Darius's ambassadors. Alexander passes over the river Tigris
with great hazard. The preparations on both sides for battle.
The Persians routed at the famous battle at Arbela.
ARISTOPHANES was now chief governor of Athens, and Spurius
Posthumius and Titus Viturius were invested with the dignity of
consuls at Rome, when Alexander, after the taking of Gaza, sent
Amyntas with ten sail into Macedonia, with orders to enlist the
stoutest of the young men for soldiers. And, in the mean time, he
himself marched forward with the whole army towards Egypt, and,
coming there, all the cities submitted to him without fighting.
For, because the Persians had wickedly violated their holy rites, and
domineered imperiously over them, they most willingly received the
Macedonians.
Having settled his affairs in Egypt, he undertook a journey to the
temple of Ammon, to consult with the oracle there. When he was
in the midst of his journey, he was met by the ambassadors of Cy-
rene, presenting him with a crown and other rich gifts, among which
were three hundred war-horses, and five of the best chariots, drawa
by four horses each. These he accepted, and made a league of peace
and amity with them; and then, with those that attended him, went
forward in his journey to the temple. When they came to the
parched and dry deserts, (for they had taken water along with them),
they passed through a region which was nothing but heaps of
sand. After the fourth day their water was spent, so that they were
in an extremity of distress. While they were in this great per-
plexity, and knew not what to resolve, a sudden and unexpected
shower of rain then falling, supplied all their present necessities;
which unexpected preservation they imputed to the kindness and
providence of the gods.
Having furnished themselves out of a valley with as much water
as was sufficient for four days, in that time they passed over this
dire and scorching desert; but, in regard there was no visible path,
by reason of the great heaps of sand, those who led the way told
200
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the king that there were crows, which, by their croaking at the right
hand, directed them the way to the temple; which the king taking
as a happy omen, and thereupon concluding that his coming was
grateful and acceptable to the gods, he went forward on his journey
with more cheerfulness. The next place he came to was called the
Bitter Pond: having travelled thence a hundred furlongs, he passed
by the cities of Ammon, and in one day's journey more came to the
grove of the god.
The scite of the temple is surrounded with a vast dry and sandy
desert, waste and untilled; but the grove itself is fifty furlongs broad,
and as many long, full of pleasant fountains, and watered with run-
ning streams, richly planted with all sorts of trees, most of them
bearing fruit.
The temperature of the air is a constant spring. And, though all
the places round it are dry and scorching, yet to all that live there
the heavens afford a most healthful climate. It is reported that this
temple was built by Danaus the Egyptian.
Towards the east and west part of this sacred ground the Ethio-
pians inhabit; towards the north the Numidians, a people of Africa;
and towards the south the Nasamenes. The Ammoni, the inha-
bitants of the sacred grove, live in villages. In the middle of the
grove is a castle fortified with a treble wall: within the first stands
the palace of the antient kings; within the other was the Gyne-
cæum, where were the apartments for the wives, children, and kin-
dred of the prince, and stood as a common fortress and guard to the
whole place; and lastly, the temple itself, and the sacred laver,
wherein they washed the sacrifices. Within the third, were the
lodgings of the archers and darters, and guard-houses of those who
attend as guards upon the prince when he walks abroad. Not far
.
from the castle, out of the walls, stands another temple of Ammon,
shaded round with many fruit-trees; next to which is a fountain,
called Solis, from the natural effects of it: for the water differs in its
temper, according to the several hours of the day. For, about sun-
rising it is luke-warm; afterwards, as the day comes on, it grows
colder and colder every hour, till noon, at which time it is at the
coldest; and thenceforward, till evening, the cold abates by degrees;
and, when night approaches, it waxes hot again, and increases by
little and little till midnight, at which time it boils, through intense-
ness of heat. From that time it cools by degrees, till sun-rising,
and then is luke-warm again, as it was before.
The image of the god is adorned in every part with emeralds and
other precious stones, and delivers his oracles in a singular and un-
usual way: for he is carried about in a golden ship by fourscore
Chap. V.
201
DIODORUS SICULUS.
priests, who make to that place whither the god by a nod of his head
directs them.
There follows a great multitude of matrons and young virgins,
singing Pæans all the way as they go, and setting forth the praises of
the idol, in songs composed after the style and custom of their own
country.
When Alexander was introduced by the priests into the temple,
and saw the god, one of the old prophets addressed himself to him,
and said “God save thee, my son, and this title take along with
thee from the god himself.” To whom he made answer_“I ac-
cept it, my father, and if you will make me lord of the whole world,
your son I will ever be called.” Upon which the priest approached
near the altar; and when the men, (who according to custom lifted up
the image), at the uttering of some words as signs for that purpose,
moved forward, the priest answered_“ That the god would certainly
bestow upon him what he had desired.” This was very acceptable
to Alexander.
But then he further said _“I entreat thee, O God, that thou
wouldst let me know what I have yet to inquire, and that is, whether
I have executed justice upon all my father's murderers, or whether any
have escaped ?" At which the oracle cried out_“ Express thyself
better, for no mortal can kill thy father, but all the murderers of
Philip have suffered just punishment.”
He added further_" That his wonderful successes and prosperous
achievements, were evidences of his divine birth: for, as he was
never yet overcome by any, so he should be ever victorious for the
time to come.”
Alexander, being greatly pleased with these answers, after he had
bestowed many rich and stately gifts upon the oracle, returned back
on his way for Egypt, where he intended to build a great city. In
order whereunto, when he came there, he directed the overseers of
this work to build it between the marshes and the sea, and measured
out the ground himself, and marked out the streets, and called it
Alexandria, after his own name. It had a very commodious situa-
tion, being near to the haven of Pharos *. He ordered and con-
trived the streets with that prudence as that the Etesian winds.
should, by their comfortable gales, refresh all parts of the city: for
these so cool the air by their breezes from the great seat, that the
inhabitants, by so welcome and delightful a temperature of the heat,
are very healthy. He likewise drew a large and wonderfully strong
* An island near Egypt, now joined to Alexandria by a bridge, though formerly a
day's sail, as Homer says.
+ The Mediterranean.
VOL. 2. No, 42.
DD
202
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
wall round the city; and, inasmuch as it lay between a large pond on
the one side, and the sea on the other, there were bot two narrow
ways and passes by land to it; so that it was easily defended by a
small guard. The city was in form like unto a soldier's coat, one
large and beautifully-built street running almost through the middle
of the town, in length from gate to gate forty furlongs, in breadth an
hundred feet, adorned with most stately structures, both of temples
and private houses. Alexander likewise built a large and stately
palace, of most admirable workmanship; and not only Alexander,
but all the succeeding kings of Egypt from time to time, to our pre-
sent age, have enlarged this palace with most costly and sumptuous
buildings. The city likewise itself has been enlarged in after times;
so that by many it is reported to be one of the greatest and most noble
cities in the world; for beauty, rich revenues, and plentiful provision of
all things for the comfortable support of man's life, far excelling all
others; and far more populous than any other: for, when I was in
Egypt, I was informed by them that kept the rolls of the inhabitants -
That there were above three hundred thousand freemen who inhabited
there, and that the king received above six thousand talents out of
the yearly revenues of Egypt. But, when the king had appointed
sone of his friends to oversee and take care of the building of Alex-
andria, and had settled all the affairs of Egypt, he returned with his
army into Syria.
As soon as Darius had intelligence of his coming, he got all his
forces together, and prepared all things necessary in order to fight
him: for he ordered the swords and lances to be made much longer,
thinking by that advantage Alexander gained the victory in Cilicia.
He provided, likewise, two hundred hooked chariots, drawn by four
horses each, so contrived as to strike terror into the hearts of his
enemies: fur in every one of them, on both sides the horses which
drew the chariots by iron chains, darts of three spans long were fixed
in the yoaks, with their points full in the faces of the enemy. Upon
the lower parts of the axle-trees were two others fastened exactly as
those before, pointing into the faces of the enemy, but longer and
broader; and at the top of them were fixed sharp hooks. Having
completely furnished and set forth his army, with glittering arms and
stout commanders, he marched from Babylon with eight hundred
thousand foot, and no less than two hundred thousand horse. In his
march, the Tigris was on his right, and the Euphrates on his left hand;
where he passed through a very rich country, abounding in forage
for bis horse, and supplying sufficient provision of all things for his
soldiers.
He made all the laste he could to reach Nineveh, there to fight
Chap. V.
203
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
the enemy, because it was a large and champaign country, conveni-
ent for the drawing out of so great an army. When he came to a
village called Arbela, he there encamped, and every day drew up his
army in battalia, and trained and exercised them; for he was much
afraid lest among so many nations, differing in language one from
another, there should be nothing but tumult and confusion in the
heat of the fight. He had, indeed, but lately before sent ambassa-
dors to Alexander, to treat upon terms of peace, and had offered to
him all the countries lying within the river Halys, and two thousand
talents of silver; and now he sent others to him, much commending
him for his generous and honourable usage of his mother and the
rest of the captives, and desired to make peace with him, and offered
all the lands lying within the river Euphrates, with three thousand
talents of silver, and one of his daughters in marriage; and further
promised _That if he would be content to be his son-in-law, he
should be joint partner with him in the kingdom.
Alexander iinparted all these proposals, offered to him by Darius,
to his friends, whom he called together for that purpose, and wished
them freely to deliver their opinions in this matter.
When none
durst speak their minds in a business of such great importance, Par-
menio stood up, and said " If I were Alexander, I would accept of
.
the terms offered, and make peace.” To whom Alexander replied
“ And if I were Parmenio, I would do the same.” And so, uttering
several other words manifesting a greatness and nobleness of mind,
he rejected the conditions offered by the Persians; and, preferring
honour before profit or other advantage, he spoke to the ambassadors
in this manner“ As two suns in the heaven would disorder the
course of the universe, so two kings reigning together upon earth
would turn all into tumult and confusion.” Therefore he com-
manded them to tell Darius_That if he affected the superiority, then
to come and try it out with him for the whole empire by the sword;
but, if he preferred wealth and ease before honour, that then he
should submit to Alexander; and so he might reign over others as a
king, but yet receive his kingdom at the hands of Alexander, as a fruit
of his bounty.
Having said this, he presently after broke up the assembly, and
marched with his army towards the enemy's camp. In the mean
time the wife of Darius died, and Alexander buried her honourably
according to her quality. When Darius received Alexander's answer,
he was out of all bopes of putting an end to the war by letters and
messages, and therefore he trained his soldiers every day, thereby
making them more ready and willing to observe all words of command
whenever they should engage.
204
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
In the mean while he sent Mazæus, one of his faithful friends,
with a battalion of stout men to guard the passage over the river
Tigris, and secure the ford. Others he commanded to burn up all
the country through which the enemy was to pass; for he resolved
to make use of the river as a defence and bulwark against the enemy's
approach.
But Mazæus observing that the river was not passable, both by
reason of its depth, and swiftness of its stream, waved the guarding
of it, and employed himself in wasting and destroying the country;
concluding that when that was done, the enemy could not pass that
way through want of provisions.
Alexander, when he came to the river Tigris, (being informed by
the inhabitants where the ford lay), passed his army over, but with
very great toil and extreme hazard; for the water came up above
their breasts, and several were taken off their feet, and hurried away
by the violence of the stream; many others, likewise, were borne
away, and perished through the rapid course of the water, involving
itself within their arms. Alexander, to withstand the violence of
the water, ordered his men to stand close in a body together, like a
rampier against the stream: by this means they got safe over; and
after so much danger and difficulty, he permitted them to refreshi
themselves for one day. The next day he marched in battalia against
the enemy, and at length encamped near to them. But while he
revolved in his mind the vast number of the Persian army, and what
great difficulties he had to cope with, and that now all lay at stake,
he spent all that night in anxious thoughts concerning the event.
But he fell into so deep a sleep about the morning watch, that though
the sun was now up, yet he could not be awaked. His friends at the
first were very glad of it, as judging the longer he rested the more
lively he would be, and so more able to bear the fatigues of the day.
But time drawing far on, and the king still fast asleep, Parmenio, the
oldest of the commanders, gave command through the army to pre-
pare for an engagement. The king sleeping still, some of his friends
stept in to him, and had much ado to awake him. While all won-
dered at a thing so unusual, and expected to hear the cause from
himself, “Now,” says Alexander, “I am free from all fear and care
concerning Darius, who has brought his whole strength together into
one place; for by one day's battle for the trial of all, I shall be quit
and discharged of all my hazards and toils for the time to come.
Upon which, without any delay, he made a speech to encourage his
officers to pluck up their spirits, and with courageous hearts to en-
counter all the dangers that were before them. Upon wbich he
marched in battalia against the barbarians, with the horse in front of
Chap. V.
205
DIODORUS SICULUS.
bis army. The right wing was commanded by Clitus, surnamed
Niger, wherein were other special friends under the command of
Philotas, the son of Parmenio, supported by seven other regiments
of horse under the same commander. After them were placed the
battalion of foot called Argyraspides*, glittering in their arms, (most
excellent soldiers), led by Nicanor the son of Parmenio; to support
them he placed next the squadrons of Elimeat, whose leader was
Cenus. In the next squadron stood the Oresteans and Lyncestians,
whose captain was Perdiccas; next to these was Meleager with his
squadron; and after him Polysperchoni commanded the Stympha-
lians; and next to him Philip the son of Balacrus commanded another
squadron; and after hiin Craterus. To the squadrons of horse
before-mentioned were joined, as auxiliaries, those from Peloponnesus
and Achaia, together with the Phthiots, Malians, Locrians, and
Phocians, commanded by Erigyus of Mitylene. After these were
placed the Thessalians, (for valour and horsemanship far beyond all
the rest), whose commander was Philip. Next to these he drew up
the archers from Crete, and the mercenaries from Achaia.
Both wings were drawn up into the form of an half moon, that
the Macedonians might not be hemmed in by the multitude of the
Persians. The king provided against the hooked chariots, that they
might not break in upon them, by this contrivance: he commanded
the foot, that when the chariots advanced near in their career, they
should strike with their javeliris upon their shields locked one into
another, that the horses, frightened with the noise, might start back;
but that if they still pressed forward, in order to force their way, that
then they should open, that so they might shun them without any
prejudice. He himself took upon him the command of the right wing,
and drawing up in an oblique line, resolved to venture himself wher-
ever there was any danger.
Darius drew up his army according to the distinction of the several
nations, and advanced against the enemy in that wing opposite to
Alexander. And now both armies drew near one to another, and the
trumpets on both sides gave the signal for battle, and the soldiers
made at one another with a great shout, and forthwith the hooked
chariots rushing forward with a mighty force, greatly amazed and
terrified the Macedonians. For Mazæus, the general of the horse,
charging with a great body close after the chariots, caused them to
be more terrible. In the midst of the action a mighty crash and
.
dreadful noise was made on a sudden by the foot soldiers striking
with their javelins upon their bucklers, as the king had commanded;
* Silver shields.
+ Elimea, a city of Macedonia,
206
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
upon which many of the chariots (through the fright of the horses)
were turned aside, and the horses being altogether ungovernable,
made away back again into the Persian army; most of the rest of the
chariots breaking in among the foot, by opening to make way, were
either quite destroyed by darts and arrows, or diverted. Some indeed
forced their way with that violence, that with their hooks they bore
down all before them, and many perished by several sorts of deadly
wounds. For such was the force and violence, together with the
sharpness of the hooked scythes contrived for destruction, that many
had their arms with their shields in their hands cut off; and not a
few had their heads so suddenly sheared off, that they tumbled to the
ground, with their eyes open, and their countenances the same as
when they were alive. Some were so mortally gashed, and cut
through their sides, that they forthwith fell down dead.
When the armies came closer together, and all their darts and
arrows, both from their bows and slings, and those cast by the hand,
were spent, they fell to it hand to hand. The first charge was by
the horse, the Macedonians being in the right wing opposite to Da-
rius, who commanded the left of the Persians, in which were his
kindred and near relations. For there was a regiment of a thousand
horse, composed only of such as were in the greatest reputation and
account for their valour and special love to the king. These having
him a spectator of their valour, readily and cheerfully received all the
darts that were cast at the king. They were seconded by the Mele-
phorians, who were numerous and stout men, and with them were
joined the Mardians and Cissians, men admired for their courage,
and the bulk of their bodies. Besides these, there were those of the
,
king's household, and some of the stoutest of the Indians. All these
made a fierce charge with a great shout upon the Macedonians, who
were put very hard to it by reason of their multitude. Mazæus,
likewise, in the right wing, with a brave body of horse, charged with
that briskness that he laid many at his feet at the first onset. Then
he ordered two thousand Cadusian horse, and a thousand more of the
Scythians, to take a compass round the enemy's wings, and to break
in upon the trenches that defended their carriages; who presently
thereupon put in execution what they were commanded. Thus
having forced into the Macedonian camp, some of the prisoners
caught up arms and joined with the Scythians, and rifled the car-
riages. Upon which, through the suddenness of the surprise, a great
noise and clamour arose throughout the whole camp. Then other
prisoners ran in to the barbarians. But Sisygambis, the mother of
Darius, would not stir, though she was moved to it, but with a kind
of atlectionate regard to her condition, continued in the same place,
Chap. V.
207
DIODORUS SICULUS.
not trusting to the uncertain turns of fortune, nor judging it fit and
honourable to manifest so much ingratitude towards Alexander.
The Scythians having at length rifled most of the carriages, returned
to Mazæus, and gave him an account of the happy success. With
the like good fortune that body of horse with Darius put the Mace-
donians (overpowered with numbers) to flight. While the victory
seemed thus to incline to the Persians by this second success, Alex-
ander making it his only business with all possible speed to rally his
broken forces, and to repair his losses, charged Darius with his own
brigade, and some others of the bravest horse in the army. The
Persian king received the enemy's charge with great resolution, and
fighting mounted upon his chariot, despatched many with darts that
assaulted him; neither were they few that defended him. And while
both kings were eager to destroy each other, Alexander, in throwing
a dart at Darius, missed him, but killed his chariot-driver. Upon
which those about the king that were at some distance set up a great
cry, believing that the king was killed; and forthwith betook them-
selves to flight, and then the next to them followed. Presently the
troops next to Darius himself gave ground by degrees, till such time
as he was left naked on one side; and then he himself in a great
consternation made away with all speed. The Persians being thus
dispersed, the horse in their Aight raised so great a cloud of dust,
that Alexander and his men, who pursued close after the enemy,
could not see which way Darius fled. Nothing was heard but the
groans of dying men, the trampling of horses, and continual noise
and lashing of whips. In the mean time Mazæus in the right
wing having the bravest and stoutest horse of any of the Per-
sians, pressed grievously upon those troops with whom he was
engaged. So that though Parmenio with the Thessalian horse, and
others joined with them, were greatly distressed, yet he bore the
brunt for some time, and at first through his own valour, and the
bravery of the Thessalian horse, worsted the Persians; but the horse
with Mazæus, by their number bearing down the other, that wing of
the Macedonians was quite routed, so that a great slaughter was made,
and there was now no standing before the barbarians. Parmenia
therefore sent horsemen after Alexander to entreat his assistance with
all speed, who hastened to execute the orders and command given:
but when they heard that a great part of the army had fled, they re-
turned without going farther. However, Parmenio bestirring nim-
self, and rallying his troops as well as he could, with the assistance
of the Thessalian horse hewed down many of his enemies, and at
length, with much difficulty, put the barbarians to flight, who
208
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
were in amazement and consternation at hearing that Darius had
fled.
Darius in the mean time being an expert general, and helped by
the thick cloud of dust, took not his course strait forward like the
rest, but turned a different way; and so being not discerned, (by
a
reason of the dust rising so high), escaped clear away, and brought all
those that went with him safe into the towns and villages behind the
Macedonians.
At length all the barbarians taking to flight, and the Macedonians
killing all that were in the rear, in a short time all that large plain
was covered over with dead carcases. There were killed in this
battle, of the barbarians, horse and foot, above ninety thousand; of
the Macedonians, five hundred only, but great multitudes wounded:
amongst whom Hephæstion, one of the bravest of Alexander's com-
manders, and captain of his guard, was shot through the arm with a
dart. Perdiccas, Cenus, Menidas, and some others likewise were
wounded. And this was the issue of the battle at Arbela.
CHAP. VI.
The Grecians conspire to revolt. Memnon rebels in Thrace.
Antipater marches against him. The Lacedæmonians raise an
army; are routed by Antipater, and Agis their king killed.
ARISTOPHON was at that time lord chancellor of Athens, and
Cneius Domitius and Aulus Cornelius were created Roman consuls,
when many of the cities of Greece, upon the news of the victory at
Arbela, began to bestir themselves to defend their antient liberties,
whilst the Persians had any power left to assist them; and therefore
resolved to assist Darius with money to raise foreign soldiers from all
parts. For they concluded that Alexander durst not divide bis army
lest he should disturb them; but if they should suffer the Persians to
be destroyed, they were not able of themselves to defend their
liberties. And an insurrection in Thrace encouraged them the more
to revolt: for Memnon being sent general into Thrace, having both
courage and force sufficient, at the instigation of the barbarians,
rebelled, and with a great army now appeared in open war. Upon
which Antipater gathered all his forces together, and marched through
Chap. VI.
209
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
Macedonia into Thrace, against Memnon. Things thus falling out,
the Lacedæmonians judging that a fair opportunity was now offered
them to prepare for war, solicited the Grecians to confederate toge-
ther for their remaining liberties. But the Athenians, in regard
they bad received many kindnesses and marks of honour from Alex-
ander, beyond all the rest of the cities, continued quiet and firm in
their duty. But many of the Peloponnesians, and some others,
entered into the league, and enrolled their names as soldiers for the
army; so that, according as every city was able, they sent forth
the choicest of their youth, and raised an army of twenty thousand
foot, and two thousand horse. The management of the whole war
was left to the Lacedæmonians, who were resolved to lay all at stake,
and made Agis general. Antipater hearing of the defection of the
Greeks, composed all matters relating to the war in Thrace as well
as he could, and marched with all his forces into Greece, having no
less than forty thousand Greek auxiliaries as confederates. Here-
upon a great battle was fought, wherein Agis (though he behaved
himself with great valour and resolution) was killed, and at length
the Lacedæmonians, (having stood to it stoutly for a long time),
upon their confederates giving ground, likewise retreated towards
Sparta. There fell of the Lacedæmonians and their confederates in
this battle, above five thousand three hundred: of those with Anti-
pater three thousand five hundred.
There was one thing very remarkable concerning the death of
Agis. Having fought with great gallantry and resolution, and re-
ceived many wounds, he was carried off by the soldiers in order to
be brought back to his own country, but being surrounded by the
enemy, and finding no likelihood to escape, he charged his soldiers
forthwith to be gone, and preserve themselves for the future service
of their country. He himself remained, and with his sword in his
hand fought it out upon his knees, and killed several of the assailants;
till at length being shot through the body with a dart, he there died,
after he had reigned nine years. Thus far for Europe; we shall now
return to the affairs of Asia.
Vol. 2, No. 43.
210
Book XVII,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. VII.
Alexander comes to Babylon. The wealth found there. Views
his troops at Sitacana. The riches there. Thence goes into
the country of the Uxians. Marches towards Persepolis. A
company of maimed Greeks met Alexander: his bounty to them,
He takes Persepolis: gives it up to the plunder of the soldiers.
The riches of the citadel of Persepolis. Alexander's feast at
Persepolis, Persepolis burnt at the instigation of Thais. Da-
rius murdered.
1
DARIUS, being routed at Arbela, fled towards the higher provinces,
to the end that he might, by the distance of the place, both recruit
bimself, and likewise have more time to raise a new army.
He
came first to Ecbatana, where he stayed for some time, and there
received his broken troops that came in to him, and armed again
such as had lost their arms. He sent likewise for the militia out
of the neighbouring provinces, and despatched messengers to the
lord-lieutenants and commanders in Bactria and the upper prefec-
tures, wishing them to abide firm to him in their faith and loyalty.
In the mean time, Alexander (after he had buried those that were
killed in the battle) entered Arbela, where he found abundance of
rich furniture of the king's, and vast treasures of the barbarians, a-
mounting to three thousand talents of silver. But, because he
judged that the air thereabouts must certainly be infected, through
the smell of the dead bodies that lay there, he presently removed his
camp, and came with all his forces to Babylon, where he was cheer-
fully receired by the inhabitants, and splendid entertainment afforded
to the Macedonians. And there his army was refreshed after the
many toils and difficulties they had undergone. And thus, in the
confluence of all things desirable, and free and noble entertainment
of the citizens, he continued in the city above thirty days. Then he
made Agatho of Pydna governor of the castle, with a garrison of
seven hundred Macedonians. To Apollodorus of Amphipolis, and
Nienetas of Pella, he gave the government of Babylon, and of all,
the prefectures as far as to Cilicia, and ordered them to raise what
forces they could, and gave them a thousand talents for that pur-
pose. He made Mithrenes, who betrayed the castle of Sardis, lord-
lieutenant of Armenia. Of the money that he found in Babylon, he
gave to every horseman sis minas; to every auxiliary, five; to each
Chap. VII.
'211
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
of the Macedonian phalanx, two; and to every foreign mercenary,
two months pay.
The king removing from Babylon, as he was on his march, there
came to him recruits, from Antipater, five hundred Macedonian horse,
and six thousand foot; six hundred Thracian horse, and three thou-
sand five hundred Trallians: from Peloponnesus four thousand foot,
and almost a thousand horse. Among these were sent fifty of the
sons of the king's special friends froin Macedonia, designed by their
fathers to be of the king's life-guard. Having received these, he
marched forward, and came, after six decampments, into the pro-
vince of Sitacana. And here he stayed several days, in regard the
country abounded in all things necessary for the life of man, and be-
cause he had a mind his soldiers should refresh themselves after their
tedious niarch: and had a purpose likewise to take a more exact view
and account of his troops, and to enlarge the commands and govern-
ments of his captains and commanders, and so to strengthen his army,
both by the number of soldiers, and valour of their officers. All
which he forthwith put in execution; and making choice of the most
deserving with the utmost care possible, he advanced many from very
considerable places of trust and authority to much higher prefer-
ments, by which means he both promoted his officers, and gained
their hearts and affections at the same time. He took care also for
the better government of the common soldiers, and by many new in-
ventions put every thing into a better order and posture than they
were before. To conclude, when he had so managed every thing as
that he had gained the love of the whole army, and made them in
all points observant to his commands, and was assured for valour
they would give place to none, he marched forward, in order to finish
by fighting what further remained. When he came to the province
of Susiana, he presently without any difficulty gained possession of
Susa, the royal city, the most beautiful palace in the universe, which
was voluntarily surrendered to him by Abulites the lord-lieutenant
of the province. But some writers have said _That this was done
by order of Darius himself, to them that otherwise would have
been both loyal and faithful to his interest; and that this was done
by the Persian king for this end, that Alexander, being taken up with
maiters of such great moment, as taking possession of famous and
noble cities, and loading himself with vast treasures, Darius might
gain more time for the raising of fresh forces for the carrying on of
the war.
Alexander therefore having possessed himself of the city and the
king's treasures, found there above forty thousand talents of uncoined
gold and silver. The kings had preserved this treasure untouched
212
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
for many ages, that it might be ready to resort to in case of some
sudden and unexpected turn of fortune. Besides this, there was like-
wise nine thousand talents in coined money called darics. While
Alexander was taking an account of this wealth, there happened
something that was very remarkable. The throne whereon he sat
being too high for him, so that his feet could not touch the foot-
stool, one of the king's loys observing it, brought Darius's table and
placed it under his feet, with which the king was very well pleased, and
commended his care. But one of the eunuchs standing at the side
of the throne, much concerned and grieved at such a change of for-
tune, burst out into tears: which Alexander perceiving—“ What ill
dost thou see (says he) that thou weepest so?" To whom heanswered
“ I was once Darius's servant, now I am yours; but because I cannot
but love my natural lord and master, I am not able, without extreme
sorrow, to see that table put to so base and mean a use, which by him
was so lately graced and honoured.” The king, upon this answer,
reflecting upon the strange change of the Persian monarchy, began
to consider that he had acted the part of a proud and insulting enemy,
not becoming that humanity and clemency which ought to be shewn
towards captives; and therefore he commanded him who placed the
table there, to take it away: but Philotas standing near to him said
It is not pride nor insolence, O king! being done without your com-
mand; but it falls out to be so through the providence and pleasure
of some good genius. Upon which the king ordered the table to
remain where it was, looking upon it as some happy omen.
After this, he ordered some masters to attend upon Darius's mo-
ther, his daughters, and son, to instruct them in the Greek tongue,
and left them at Susa. And he himself marched away with the whole
army, and after four decampments came to the river Tigris, which
rising out of the Uxian mountains, runs first through a rough and
craggy country, full of large and wide channels, for the space of a
thousand furlongs; thence it passes through a champaign country
with a more gentle current, and having made its way for the space
of six hundred furlongs, it empties itself into the Persian sea.
Alexander having passed the river, marched towards the most fruit-
ful country of the Uxians: for being watered in every part, it plenti-
fully produces fruits of all sorts and kinds; of which, being in their
proper season dried in the time of Autumn, they make all sorts of
sweetmeats, sauces, and other compositions, both for necessary use
and pleasure, and the merchants convey them down the river Tigris
to Babylon. He found all the passes strongly guarded by Madetes,
who was nearly related in kindred to Darius, and had with him a strong
and well disciplined army. While Alexander was viewing the strength
>
Chap. VII.
213
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of the places, and could find out no passage through those steep
rocks, an inhabitant of the country, who was well acquainted with
those ways, promised Alexander that he would lead his soldiers
through such a strait and difficult pathway, as that they should stand
at length over the heads of their enemies: hereupon the king ordered
a small party to go along with him. He himself in the mean time
used his utmost endeavour to force his way, and for that purpose set
upon the guards, and while they were hotly engaged, (fresh men still
supplying the room of them that were weary), and the barbarians
disordered, and running here and there in the engagement, on a sud-
den the soldiers that were sent away appeared over the heads of the
guards that kept the passages; upon which they were so amazed,
that they forthwith fled, and so the king gained the pass; and pre-
sently all the cities throughout all Uxiana were brought into sub-
jection. Thence he decamped and marched towards Persia, and the
fifth day came to a place called the Susian Rocks, which were before
possessed by Ariobarzanes, with five-and-twenty thousand foot,
and three bundred horse. The king concluding that he must gain
the pass by force, led his troops through some of the strait and craggy
places without any resistance, the barbariāns never offering to disturb
him till he came to the mid-way, when they bestirred themselves,
and threw down great numbers of massy stones upon the heads of
the Macedonians, and destroyed multitudes of them. Many cast
their darts from the rocks above upon them, which failed not to do
execution, falling among such a throng of men together: others with
hand-stones repulsed the Macedonians that were forcing to break in
upon them; so that by reason of the difficulty of the places, the bar-
barians so far prevailed, as to kill multitudes, and wound as many.
Alexander not being able to prevent this miserable-slaughter, and
perceiving that not one of the enemy fell, or was so much as hurt, and
that many of his own men were slain, and almost all that led the van
were wounded, he sounded a retreat, and marched back three hun-
dred furlongs, and then encamped. Then he inquired of the inha-
bitants, whether there was any other way to pass, who all answered
That there was none, but that he must go round many days journey.
But the king looking upon it as a dishonourable thing to leave the
bodies of them that were slain unburied; and as disgraceful, and even
owning himself to be conquered, by treating for liberty to bury the
dead, he commanded the captives, as many as were there at hand,
to be brought to him. Among these, there was one that understood
both the Persian and Greek tongue, who declared, that he was a Lycian,
and some time ago made a prisoner of war by the Persians, and that
for several years last past he had exercised the calling of a shepherd
214
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
in those mountains, and by that means had perfect knowledge of the
country; and told the king, that he could lead the army through the
woods, and bring them directly upon the backs of them that guarded
the passes: hearing this, the king promised the man a large reward,
who thereupon so conducted him, that in the night, with great la-
bour and toil, he got to the top of tlie mountains, for he marched
through abundance of snow, and passed through a country full of
steep rocks, deep gulfs, and many vallies. Having marched through
this tract, as soon as he came in sight of the guards, he presently kill-
ed the first, and took those prisoners that were placed in the next
pass. The third guard presently fied, and so he gained all into his
own power, and cut off the greatest part of Ariobarzanes's army.
Thence he marched towards Persepolis, and in his way received
letters from Teridates governor of the city, whereby he signified to
kim_That if he hastened away, and prevented those that were
coming to relieve Persepolis, he would deliver the city into his
hands. Upon which he made a swift march, and passed his army
over the river Araxes, by a bridge then laid for that purpose. As the
king was on bis march, a most sad spectacle presented itself, which
stirred up just hatred against the author, pity and compassion for the
irreparable loss of those that suffered; and grief and sorrow in all the
beholders. For there met him cestain Greeks, whom the former
kings of Persia had made captives and slaves, and fell down at his
feet; they were near eight hundred, most of them old men, and all
maimed, some having their hands, others their feet, some their ears,
and others their noses cut off. If any were expert in any art, and
had made a considerable progress therein, all his outward members
were cut off, but such only as were necessary for the management of
his art. So that all who beheld their venerable old age, and the sad
mangling of their bodies, greatly pitied the miserable condition of
these poor creatures: especially, Alexander so pitied their sad condi-
tion, that he conld not refrain from weeping. These all with one
voice cried out, and entreated him, that he would succour and re-
lieve them in these their calamities. Upon which the king called
the chiefest of them to him, and told them, that he would take spe-
cial care of them, and promised he would see them sent honourably
to their own country, as became the dignity of his person. Upon
which they consulted together, and at length concludedThat it
was better for them to remain where they were, than to return into
their own country: for, when they were returned, they would be
scattered here and there, and all the days of their lives be mocked
and despised on account of their sad misfortunes. But if they
continued together as fellows in their misery, the calamity of their
Chap. VII.
215
DIODORUS SICULUS.
-
fellow-sufferers would be an allay, and some comfort to every one of
them in their own adversities. Upon this, they made a second ad-
dress to the king, and declared to him what they had resolved upon,
and desired he would afford such relief to them as was most agrecable
to their present circumstances. The king consented to what they
had determined, and ordered to each of them three thousand drach-
mas*, five suits of raiment to every man, and as many to each wo-
man; and to every one of them two yoke of oxen, fifty sheep, and as
many medimnast of wheat. And commanded they should be free
from all taxes and tribute, and gave strict charge to the officers em-
ployed, that none should offer them any injury. And thus Alexan.
der, according to his natural goodness and innate liberal generosity,
comforted these poor miserable people. He then called the Macedo-
nians together, and told them—That Persepolis, the metropolis of
the kingdom of Persia, of all the cities of Asia had done most mis-
chief to the Grecians, and therefore he gave it up to the plunder and
spoil of the soldiers, except the king's palace. This was the richest
city of any under the sun, and for many ages all the private houses
were full of all sorts of wealth, and whatever was desirable.
The Macedonians therefore forcing into the city, put all the men
to the sword, and rifled and carried away every man's goods and es-
tate, amongst which was abundance of rich and costly furniture and
ornaments of all sorts. In this place was hurried away here and
there vast quantities of silver, and no less of gold, great numbers of
rich garments, some of purple, others embroidered with gold, all
which became a plentiful prey to the ravenous soldiers: and thus the
great seat-royal of the Persians, once famous all the world over, was
now exposed to scorn and contempt, and rifled from top to bottom.
For though every place was full of rich spoil, yet the covetousness
of the Macedonians was insatiable, still thirsting after more. And
they were so eager in plundering, that they fought one with another
with drawn swords, and many who were conceived to have got a greater
share than the rest, were killed in the quarrel. Some things that
were of extraordinary value they divided with their swords, and each
took a share; others in rage cut off the hands of such as laid hold of
a thing that was in dispute. They first ravished the women as they
were in their jewels and rich attire, and then sold them for slaves.
So that by how much Persepolis excelled all the other cities in glory
and worldly felicity, by so much more was the measure of their misery
and calamity. Then Alexander seized upon all the treasures in the
citadel, which was a vast quantity of gold and silver of the public re-
• Near one hundred pounds.
* Every medimna, by some writers, contains eighteen gallons; fifty bushels.
216
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
venues that had been there collected and laid up, from the time of
Cyrus the first king of Persia to that day. For there was there found
a hundred and twenty thousand talents, reckoning the gold after the
rate of the silver.
Part of this treasure he took for the use of the war, and ordered
another part of it to be treasured up at Susa. To this purpose, he
ordered that a multitude of mules both for draught and carriage, and
three thousand camels with pack-saddles, should be brought out of
Babylon, Mesopotamia, and Susa; and with these he conveyed all the
treasure to the several places he had appointed. For because he ex-
tremely hated the inhabitants, he was resolved not to trust them with
any thing, but utterly to ruin and destroy Persepolis; of whose palace,
in regard of its stately structure, we conceive it will not be imperti-
nent if we say something. This stately fabric, or citadel, was sur-
rounded with a treble wall: the first was sixteen cubits high, adorned
with many sumptuous buildings and aspiring turrets. The second
was like to the first, but as high again as the other. The third was
drawn like a quadrant, foursquare, sixty cubits high, all of the hardest
marble, and so cemented, as to continue for ever. On the four sides
are brazen gates, near to which are gallowses* of brass twenty cubits
high; these raised to terrify the beholders, and the other for the better
strengthening and fortifying of the place. On the east side of the
citadel, about four hundred feet distant, stood a mount called the
Royal Mount, for here are all the sephulchres of the kings, many ap-
partments and little cells being cut into the midst of the rock; into
which cells there is made no direct passage, but the coffins with the
dead bodies are by instruments hoisted up, and so let down into these
vaults. In this citadel were many stately lodgings, both for the king
and his soldiers, of excellent workmanship, and treasury chambers
most commodiously contrived for the laying up of money.
Here Alexander made a sumptuous feast for the entertainment of
his friends in commemoration of his victory, and offered magnificent
sacrifices to the gods. At this feast were entertained whores, who
prostituted their bodies for hire, where the caps went so high, and
the reins so let loose to drunkenness and debauchery, that many were
both drunk and mad. Among the rest, at that time there was a
courtezan called Thais, an Athenian, that said _ Alexander would
perform the most glorious act of any he ever did, if while he was feast-
ing with them, he would burn the palace, and so the glory and renown
of Persia might be said to be brought to nothing in a moment by the
hands of women. This spreading abroad, and coming to the ears of
the yoang men, (who commonly make little use of reason when drink ins
* Or crosses of brass.
Chap. VII.
217
DIODORUS SICULUS.
in their heads), presently one cries out“ Come on, bring us fire-
brands," and so incites the rest to fire the citadel, to revenge the im-
piety the Persians had commited, in destroying the temples of the
Grecians. At this, others with joy set up a shout, but said_That
so brave an exploit belonged only to Alexander to perform.
The king, stirred up at these words, embraced the motion; upon
which, as many as were present left their cups and leaped upon the
table, and said _That they would now celebrate a victorious festival
to Bacchus. Hereupon, multitudes of fire-brands were presently
got together, and all the women that played on musical instruments,
which were at the feast, were called for, and then the king, with songs,
pipes, and flutes, bravely led the way to this noule expedition, con-
trived and managed by this whore, Thais, who next after the king,
threw the first fire-brand into the palace. This precedent was pre-
sently followed by the rest, so that in a very short time, the whole
fabric, by the violence of the fire, was consumed to ashes.
It is very observable, and not without just admiration, that the
sacrilege and impiety of Xerxes, king of Persia, (exercised in his des-
troying the citadel of Athens), should so many years after be revenged
in the same kind, by one courtezan only of that city that was so in-
jured.
After these things thus done, Alexander marches against the rest
of the Persian cities, and having taken in some by force, and others
surrendered upon the fame and report of his lenity and moderation,
he made after Darius, who had begun to raise forces out of Bactria,
and other provinces; but being prevented by the march of the enemy,
he made away with all speed out of Bactria with thirty thousand Per-
sians and mercenary Greeks, and in his return was treacherously
murdered by Bessus, the lord-lieutenant of Bactria. He was scarce
dead, when Alexander with a party of light horse, came up to the
place where he lay, and there finding him, caused him to be honour-
ably interred.
But some do report, that Alexander finding him yet alive, Darius
complained of his sad misfortune, and desired him that he would see
his death revenged, which Alexander faithfully promised. He forth-
with indeed pursued Bessus, but he being a long way before him,
escaped into Bactria, so that, considering it impossible to overtake
him, he marched back. This was the state of affairs in Asia.
In Europe, the Lacedæmonians being routed in a great battle by
Antipater, were forced to send ambassadors to him; who put them
off till the meeting of the general assembly of Greece, which after-
wards met at Corinth; where, after many things were bandied and
disputed on both sides, the matter was at length left to the decision
Vol. 2, No. 43.
FP
218
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of Alexander. Hereupon, Antipater received the chiefest of the no-
bility of Sparta as hostages; and the Lacedæmonians sent ambassa-
dors into Asia, to beg pardon for their late revolt,
CHAP. VIII.
Bessus stirs up the Bactrians. Alexander discharges the Greek
auxiliaries with rewards. The river Stiboetes. He enters Hyr-
cania; its richess. Enters the Mardian country. Loses his
brave horse; which is restored. Thalestris the Amazonian queen
meets him. He falls into the effeminacy of the Persians. Enters
Drangina. A plot against Alexander. Philotas and others
put to death. Marches against the Arimaspi. Subdues Ara-
chosia.
WHEN this year ended, Cephisophon executed the office of chief
magistrate at Athens, and Caius Valerius, and Marcus Claudius, were
created Roman consuls. At that time, Bessus, with Nabarzanes and
Barzaentes, and many others, after the death of Darius, having es-
caped the hands of Alexander, came into Bactria. And in regard he
was appointed lord-lieutenant of that country by Darius, and upon
that account was well known by the inhabitants, he persuaded the
people to stand up for their liberty, and told them-_That the situa-
tion and condition of their country was such, being full of difficult
passes, and very populous, that they had an extraordinary advantage
to succeed in the attempt, and promised that he himself would take
upon him the whole management of the war.
Hereupon he so far prevailed, that he got a considerable number
to join him, and to own him for king. Then he iolisted men, pre-
pared arms, and procured whatever was necessary for the present
state of his affairs.
In the mean time, Alexander perceiving that the Macedonians had
a design to end the war with the death of Darius, and to return to
their own country, he called them together; and so courted them by
an oration fitted for that purpose, that he prevailed with them readily
to go on with the expeditions that then yet remained. Then he called
together all the Greek auxiliaries, and having highly commended them
for their valour, bestowed upon every horseman as a reward a talent,
aud every foot soldier ten minas, and discharged them from further
Chap. VIII.
219
DIODORUS SICULUS.
service in the army. And over and besides, he paid to every one of
them what was due to them for their common pay,
and
gave them
likewise sufficient provision to carry them into their own country;
and to every one that was willing still to continue in the army, he
gave three talents. He gave indeed large rewards to the soldiers, be-
ing naturally of a generous disposition; and besides, in pursuing Da-
rius he had possessed himself of a vast treasure: for he had received
eight thousand talents out of the treasures; and besides what he gave
to the soldiers, he raised thirteen thousand talents by the sale of the
cups, flagons, and furniture. And it was believed, that what was
stolen and taken away by force was much more.
Having done this, he marched with his army towards Hyrcania,
and the third day came near the city Hecatompylos*, and there en-
camped. Here he continued some days to refresh his
refresh his army, because
the country was exceeding rich, and abounded with every thing for
man's use. Thence he moved forward a hundred and fifty furlongs,
and encamped near a very high rock, at the foot of which is a cave
not unbecoming the gods; from whence, (as the spring-head), issues
the great river Stiboetes. Thence it runs with a fierce and violent
stream for the space of three furlongs, till it dashes itself upon a
great rock, in shape like a woman's pap, under which is a vast
gulf, or opening of the earth, into which, being now divided into
two channels, it falls down with a mighty noise, turned all into froth
and spume, and there runs under ground three hundred furlongst;
and then appears again, as if that were its spring-head. Having en-
tered Hyrcania with his army, he gained all the towns and cities as far
as the Caspian sea, which some likewise call the Hyrcanian sea. It
is reported, that in that sea are many serpents of an extraordinary
bigness, and fish of all sorts, much differing in colour fruns those in
other parts. When he entered farther into Hyrcania, he came to towns
called the Fortunate Towns, which are so in deed, as well as in name;
for this country excels all the rest in fertility of soil: for every vine,
they say, affords a metretef of wine, and that some fig-trees are so
very fruitful, that they will bear ten medim nas of dried figs; and that
what are left upon the tree after harvest, fall upon the ground, and
spring up again of themselves, and bring forth abundance of fruit to
perfection. There is a tree in that country much like to an oak, which
distils honey from its leaves; and this the inhabitants gather in great
plenty for their own use. There is likewise a little insect in this
tract called an Anthredon, less than a bee, but very remarkable; it
gets its living in the mountains, sucking the flowers that grow here
From its hundred gates, † About forty-tbree miles.
- About forty-nine quarts.
220
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the grow
and there in those places. It works its combs within hollow rocks,
or trees shattered or made hollow by the thunderbolts, and there
makes a liquor not inferior to any for sweetness,
In the mean time Alexander, while on his march through Hyrcania
and the bordering countries, gained great reputation, and was highly
honoured for his clemency, in carrying himself with so much huma-
nity towards all those commanders who fled away with Darius, and
afterwards submitted themselves to him: so that fifteen hundred
brave and valiant Grecians (who sided with Darius) forthwith came
unto him, and laid themselves at his feet, whom he readily pardoned,
and placed them in several of his regiments, and allowed them the
same pay with the rest.
Having run through the sea-coasts of Hyrcania, he entered the
country of the Mardi; who being a warlike nation, slight
ing power of the king, and shewed him not the least respect, either
by sending ambassadors, or otherwise; but having possessed them-
selves of the strait passes of the mountains with eight thousand men,
stood there, waiting for the coming of the Macedonians. Hereupon
the king sets upon them, kills many, and drives the rest within the
straits. But while he was burning up the country all before him, it
fell out that (some of the king's boys who led his horses, being at
some distance from the rest of the army) his best horse, by a sudden
incursion of the barbarians, was carried away. This horse was given
him by Demaratus the Corinthian, and the king bad made use of him
in all his battles in Asia. When he was bare-backed, he would ad-
mit only his keeper to mount him; but when he had the king's war-
saddle, and the rest of his brave trappings upon him, he would not
suffer his former rider to get upon his back, nor any other person but
Alexander; and to him he would down upon his knees for the king
to get into the saddle. Because of these excellent properties of the
horse, the king was the more grieved and troubled; and therefore he
ordered the trees in all parts of the country as he went to be hewn
down, and caused a proclamation to be made in their own natural
tongue_That unless his horse were restored, he would waste and
destroy all before him with fire and sword; which he began presently
to put in execution. Upon which the barbarians were so terrified,
that they not only restored the horse, but brought along with them
many rich presents for the king, and by fifty ambassadors begged his
pardon. Upon which the king accepted some of the most honour-
able among them for hostages.
When he returned to Hyrcania, Thalestris, queen of the Amazons
met him, whose dominions lay between the Phasis and Thermodon,
of an admirable beauty, and strong body, greatly honoured in her own
Chap. VIII. DIODORUS SICULUS.
. .
281
country for her brave and manly spirit. She presented herself to the
king, with three hundred Amazons in their warlike habits, having
left the rest of her forces on the borders of Hyrcania. The king be-
ing struck with admiration at the sudden and unexpected approach
of the queen, and the graceful appearance of the women, asked Tha-
lestris _“ What was the reason of her journey thither?” Who an-
swered him _“ That she came there to have issue by him; for she
looked upon him to transcend all other men for great and noble ac-
tions; and she herself to exceed all other women both in body and
miud, as to the strength of the one, and courage of the other: and
therefore there was good ground to hope that the issue of such pa-
rents, would excel all other men in valour.” The king was greatly
pleased with what she said, and gratified her request: and after he
had conversed with her for the space of thirteen days, he presented
her with honourable gifts, and then suffered her to return to her
own kingdom.
Alexander conceiving that he had now effected all that he designed,
and that there was no competitor with him for the empire, began to
indulge in the soft and effeminate manners of the Persians, and to
imitate the luxury of the Asiatic kings: and therefore, in the first
place, he ordered all the officers of the court to be Asiatics, and the
nobility of Asia to be squires of the body*, amongst whom Oxathres,
the brother of Darius, was one. He put likewise the Persian diadem
upon his head, and wore the white cassock and belt, after the manner
of the Persian kings, and all the rest, except the Persian hose and
vestment, called the Candys. He bestowed likewise purple gowns
upon his friends, and cloathed all his horsemen in the Persian habit.
He began likewise to carry his concubines along with him from place
to place as Darius used to do, who had almost as many as the days
in the year, and were the greatest beauties that could be found through-
out all Asia. These stood round the king's bed every night, that he
might take his choice of whom he pleased to lie with him. How-
ever, for the most part, he followed the antient customs of his an-
cestors, and used the other but seldom, lest he should offend the
Macedonians: and when some, notwithstanding, complained of the
king, he stopped their mouths with gifts and bribes.
About this time intelligence was brought him that Satibarzanes,
one of Darius's lord-lieutenants, had killed all the soldiers he had
committed to his charge, and was joined in conspiracy with Bessus
to make war upon the Macedonians; whereupon he marched out
against him.
Satibarzanes had got all his forces together into Chrotacana, a most
• The lictors, who carried rods before the magistrates.
22%
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
noble city in those parts, and naturally fortified; but as soon as the
king came in sight, being terrified with the greatness of the king's
army, and the valour of the Macedonians, (which was now cried up all
the world over), he hastened away with two thousand horse to Bessus,
to procure help from him with all speed. The rest of his forces he
ordered to make to a mountain near at hand, which was full of strait
passes; and where they might lie close and secure when they durst
not engage with the enemy in the open field. Upon this, the king
was so intent and diligent, (as he always was), that though they had
sheltered themselves in a large rock, and naturally strong, yet he
reduced the besieged to those straits, as that he forced them to sur-
render themselves.
Afterwards, having reduced all the cities in this province, in the
space of thirty days, he left Hyrcania, and came to the royal city of
Drangina*, where he encamped and refreshed his army,
About this time a most wicked plot was laid against Alexander,
very unworthy the goodness of his disposition. For one of the king's
friends, called Dimpus, blaming the king for something he had done,
and thereupon becoming enraged at him, laid a plan to assassinate him.
This man had a catamite, called Nicomachus, whom he dearly loved;
him he endeavoured to persuade to join with him in this wicked de-
sign: but being a very young stripling, he discovered the whole busi-
ness to his brother Ceballinus, who, (fearing lest some other should
be before him in the discovery), resolved to make the first mention
of it to the king.
Thereupon he goes to the court, and first meets Pbilotas, and ac-
quaints him with what he had heard, and entreats him to inform the
king immediately what was hatching against him.
Philotas, whether through covetousness, or that he was one of the
conspirators, (it is not certain), inclined not to make the discovery of
what had been imparted to him: for though he went to the king, and
had a long discourse with him of divers matters, yet he told him no-
thing of what Ceballinus had related to him. But when he came out,
told Ceballinus, that he had not had as yet a fit opportunity for open-
ing the matter to the king; but that the next day be would take
him aside by himself, and discover all that Ceballinus had made known
to him. Philotas neglecting the business the next day also, Cebal-
lious was afraid lest it should be discovered by some other person,
and so he himself should be in great danger: therefore he waved
Philotas, and went to one of the king's pages, and'tells him the whole
plot, wishing him forthwith to acquaint the king; and then with-
draws himself into the armory, and there lay private. The page
• In the province of Drangina, in Persia.
Chap. VIII.
223
DIODORUS SICULUS.
took the opportunity when the king was in the bath, and related to
him the whole matter told him by Ceballinus, and that he then lay
hid and secret in the armory. At this the king was greatly startled,
and forthwith ordered Dimnus to be seized; and now fully informed
of the conspiracy, sent for Ceballinus and Philotas. When every
thing, after strict examination, was fully discovered, Dimnus stabbed
himself. Philotas confessed his neglect in not making the discovery:
but utterly denied that he had any hand in the conspiracy. The king
hereupon committed the examination of the business to the judgment
of the Macedonians, who after many arguments and debates pro and
con, condemned Philolas and the rest of the conspirators to die; a-
mongst whom was Parmenio, who was ever thought to have been
one of the king's most faithful friends. And though he was not
then present, yet it was suspected that he managed the business by
his son Philotas.
Philotas therefore, being put upon the rack, confessed the whole
plot; and so he and the other conspirators were put to death, accord-
ing to the manner of their own country. Alexander Lyncestes also,
(who was before accused of a conspiracy against the king), suffered
in the same manner. He had been now three years in custody, but
his trial was deferred tillthat time for the sake of Antigonus, who had
a great kindness for him, and between whom there was a particular
friendship and familiarity. But being then brought before the Ma-
cedonian senate, and having nothing by way of plea to say for him-
self, he was executed with the rest.
Then Alexander despatched messengers upon dromedary-camels,
to prevent the report of Philotas's punishment, and by that means
caused Parmenio the father of Philotas to be seized unawares, and
put to death; he was then governor of Media, and was intrusted with
the king's treasures in Ecbatana, which amounted to a hundred and
four score thousapd talents. About the same time he severed from
the rest of his army all such as had given out harsh expressions against
him, and grumbled at the death of Parmenio, and all those who had
written false and scandalous letters to their friends in Macedonia, re-
lating to the king's affairs: all these he cast into one company or
regiment which he called the Unruly Company, lest by their un-
seasonable jangling and prating, they should corrupt the rest of the
Macedonians.
After these things thus done, and that he had settled his affairs in
Drangina, he marched against the Arimaspi, (as they were antiently
called), but now Evergetæ*, which name was given them upon the
* Benefactors.
224
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
following account: Cyrus, (who was the first that translated the em-
pire from the Medes to the Persians), in a certain expedition he had
undertaken, being brought into great extremity in a barren country
for want of provisions, insomuch as the soldiers, to satisfy their hunger,
were forced to eat the flesh of one another; the Arimaspi at that time
brought to his army thirty thousand carts and waggons loaded with
provisions. And therefore the king being unexpectedly relieved and
preserved, not only acquitted the people from paying of tribute for
the future, but bestowed upon them many other privileges and boun-
tiful rewards, and changed their old name to Evergetæ.
And now when Alexander came into their country, they received
him with all the demonstrations of love and kindness, and he rewarded
them with marks of his grace and favour, suitable to his state and
dignity. And returned the like favour to the Gedrosians their neigh-
bours, who had entertained him likewise with the same respect: and
over these two nations he made Teridates governor.
In the mean time while he staid in these parts, some brought him
intelligenee that Satibarzanes with a great body of borse out of Bac.
tria, had entered the country of the Arians, and had withdrawn the
inhabitants from their allegiance. Upon which the king sent against
him part of the army, under the command of Erigyus and Stasander.
He himself in the mean time in a few days subdued Arachosia, and
caused them to submit to his government.
CHAP. IX.
Alexander marches against the Paropamisades. His troublesome
march. Comes to mount Caucasus. A battle in Aria by Alex-
ander's officers against Satibarzanes, who is killed in a single
combat by Erigyus. Besssus brought to Alexander; his punish-
ment. Alexander kille some barbarians unexpectedly, after they
had surrendered their city. He marches to the river Indus.
Mophis's remarkable delivery up of himself and his army.
AT the end of this year Euthycritus was created chief governor of
Athens, Lucius Plotius, and Lucius Papirius executing the office of
Roman consuls. At this time was celebrated the hundred and thir-
teenth olympiad. Then Alexander led his army against the Paro-
Chap. IX.
225
DIODORUS SICULUS.
pamisades. This country lies very far north, and is covered over with
snow, and by reason of the sharpness of the cold, people cannot en-
dure to come into their country. The greatest part of it is open and
plain, without any trees, and has in it many towns scattered here and
there. The roofs of their houses are covered with tiles, running up
in shape of a spire, in the middle is a hole to let in light, and to eva-
porate the smoke: and the walls of their houses are so closely jointed
and cemented, that the inhabitants ar esufficiently guarded against
the cold. By reason of the great drifts of snow, they keep within
their houses the most part of the year, where they have every thing
necessary for their provision laid up in store. They cover their vines
and fruit trees all the winter with earth, and uncover them again
when the spring approaches. The nature of all this tract is such,
that nothing that is green or pleasant is seen in any part of it; but
snow glittering with ice covers all places. ' No sorts of fowls or birds
breed here; no wild beasts feed in the woods or forests; insomuch,
as that there is neither entertainment for any stranger, nor hospita-
Jity one with another throughout the whole country. Notwithstand-
ing all these difficulties, yet the king, encouraged by the bardiness of
the Macedonians; and put on forward by his own daring resolation,
overcame all the disadvantages of the place. But yet some of the
soldiers, and others that straggled and kept not up with the rest, were
so tired, that they were left behind. Others, by the brightness and
sharpness of the snow, and reflection thereof upon their eyes, were
destroyed. Nothing could be seen at a distance, save only the smoke
that discovered the villages; which was a sign to the Macedonians
that there were inhabitants not far off. The towns being thus dis
covered and gained, the soldiers, after their great hardships, refreshed
themselves with the plentiful store of provisions they found in the
houses, and in a short time all the inhabitants subrnitted.
After this, he marched forward, and came near to Caucasus, where
he encamped. That mountain by some is called Paropamisus: hav-
ing passed over the breadth of the mountain in sixteen days march,
he built a city called Alexandria, near the foot of the mount, at a
pass which opens a way into Media. In the middle of Caucasus is a
rock ten furlongs in compass, and four in height, wherein the inha-
bitants pretend to shew Prometheus's* cave, the fabulous vulture's
nest, and the chains and fetters. He built likewise other cities,
each distant a day's journey from Alexandria. Io these he planted
seven thousand of the barbarians, three thousand of those that fol.
lowed the camp, and as many of the mercenary soldiers as would.
• See this story in Ovid's Metamorphosis, lib. i. and other poets.
Vol. 2. No. 43,
GG
226
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Hence he marched into Bactria; for he heard that Bessus had
usurped the crown, and had raised a numerous army. These were the
things then done by Alexander.
In the mean time, the commanders that were sent into Aria, there
found the ring-leaders of the rebellion, with a strong army, under
the command of Satibarzanes, an experienced and valiant general.
The armies encamped near to one another, and sometimes would en-
gage in considerable bodies, and at others in light skirmishes, by a
few on each side. At length it came to a general battle, and, in the
midst of the fight, (wherein the valour of the barbarians was such
that the issue was very doubtful), Satibarzanes himself (to discover
who he was) pulled off his helmet with his own hand, and challenged
any of his enemy's commanders to fight with him hand to hand: upon
which Erigyus made up to him, and a stout combat ensued, in which
Erigyus was victor. . The barbarians, upon the death of their general,
were so disheartened, that, upon receiving quarter, they gave up them-
selves to the king.
In the mean while, Bessus had taken upon him the name of king,
and, having sacrificed to the gods, invited his friends to feast with
him. In the midst of his cups, he began to quarrel with one of his
companions, called Bagodares, and, the contest growing higher, he
fell at length into such a rage, that he resolved to kill him, but
changed his mind, through the persuasion of his friends. Bagodares
thus narrowly escaping with his life, fled in the night to Alexander.
The chief of the commanders (moved by the consideration of his es-
cape, and stirred up by hopes of rewards) conspired together, and
seized upon Bessus, and brought him to Alexander, for which the
king bountifully rewarded them. As for Bessus, he gave him up
into the hands of Darius's brother, and the rest of his kindred, to
punish him in such manner as they thought fit, who, after they had
put him to all manner of torments, and used him with all the despite
and disgrace imaginable, cut his body into small pieces, and hurled
every part here and there out of their slings. ***
Here the history is broken off, and lost, viz. 1. Alexander's
march through a dry country. 2. The defection of the Sog-
diani and Bactrians. 3. The hunting in Bahastis.
Peace being made upon these conditions, and ratified by mutual
oathis, the queen* mightily admired the brave and noble spirit of
Queeu of Massaga, in India,
Chap. IX.
227
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Alexander, and sent to him most rich presents, promising to do
whatever he pleased to command. *
* %
Here likewise the history is lost. 4. The impiety against
Bacchus. 5. The deuth of Clitus and Callisthenes. 6.
Wars with the Nauticæ. 7. His marriage with Roxana.
8. Of Nicæa.- These may be supplied out of Archian,
lib. 4, and Q. Curtius, lib. 7, S.
8
Then the mercenaries, as they had agreed, forthwith left the city,
and, having marched eight hundred furlongs, encamped without any
disturbance, not in the least suspecting any thing of that which af-
terwards bappened: for Alexander, hating them implacably, pursued
them with a considerable body of men, and fell upon the barbarians
on the sudden, and cut off multitudes of them. Upon which the
mercenaries first cried out, that he had violated his oath, in falling
upon them in that hostile manner, and called upon the gods to re-
venge that impious cruelty executed upon them. But the king, with
a loud voice, answered _That he did, indeed, agree that they should
quit the city, but not that they should ever be accounted as friends
to the Macedonians. Hereupon the barbarians, no at all terrified at
the desperate condition they were in*, drew up in a body in a round
ring, placing their wives, children, and women in the middle, that
they might receive the enemy on every side with less hazard and pre-
judice. Being therefore desperate, and of daring spirits, and encou-
raged by their successes in former conflicts, they bravely received
the enemy. The Macedonians, on the other hand, resolving to be in
nothing inferior to them, the engagement was very sharp and terri-
ble. For, fighting close hand to hand, man to man, various kinds of
death and wounds appeared every where: for the Macedonians, by
their sarissast, pierced through the brittle shields of the barbarians
with that violence, that the points ran into their very bodies. The
mercenaries, likewise, on their part threw their lances among the
the thickest of their enemies, upon whom (being so near) they were
sure not to fail in doing execution. When a great number of them
were wounded, and as many killed, the women took up the arms of
those that were slain, and joined with the men in the engagement :
for the desperateness of their condition, and the greatness of the
work in hand, forced them to the most resolute resistance for the de-
fence of themselves. Some of them therefore getting arms, defended
* These mercenaries were the Massagetæ.
+ Sarissa, a Macedonian spear or lance.
228
Book XVI.(
DIODORUS SICULUS.
their husbands with shields; others that had no arms rushed in upon
the enemy, and caught hold of their bucklers, so that they could
scarce do any thing. At length, all the men, together with their
wives, (who valiantly fought to the last), being overpowered by mul-
titudes, died upon the place, preferring an honourable death before a
life with slavery and disgrace. The useless and unarmed rabble, to-
gether with the women that were left, he gave to his horsemen.
He took likewise several other cities, putting them to the sword that
opposed him.
Hence* he moved forward to the rock called Aornos; for here
those inhabitants that survived sheltered themselves, it being a very
strong place. It is reported, that the antient Hercules attempted
the taking this place, but was forced to quit the siege, by reason of
terrible earthquakes, and other prodigies of the gods, that happened
there at that time; which coming to the ears of Alexander, it made
him far more eager to assault the place, as if he gloried to be that
god's co-rival both in might and power. The rock was an hundred
furlongs round, and sixteen high, and seemed to be even and steep,
and every where round. At the foot of the rock towards the south
runs the Indus, the greatest river of India: other parts are environed
by inaccessible rocks and dreadful precipices. Alexander, upon view
of the place, concluded that it was not possible for him to take it
by force. At that instant there came to him an old man, with his
two sons, who had a long time lived in those places, in a very poor
and low condition: he had there a little cell cut in the rock, wherein
were three beds: he and his sons lodging together in this place, he
was very well acquainted with all the avenues and passages round
about. When he cane, therefore, to the king, he told him his con-
dition, and promised to lead the king through the straits and craggy
by-ways, to a post where he might assault the barbarians upon the
rock. Hereupon Alexander promised him a large reward, made use
of his conduct, and in the first place possessed himself of the only
passage that led up to the top of the rock: and, because there was
no other way to pass, he so blocked up the besieged, that there
was no relief to be expected. Then, by the help of many bands, he
raised up a mount from the foot of the rock; and he advanced so
close up to the enemy, that by this means he made a very sharp and
vigorous assault, which continued, without any interruption, night
and day, for the space of seven days. At the beginning the barba-
rians, by advantage of the height of the fort, prevailed, and cut off
* Here it falls in with the index placed before the seventeenth book in the Greek
edition of Rhodomannus.
Chap. IX.
229
DIODORUS SICULUS.
many who too rasbly forced in upon them: but, when the battery
was raised up to its due height, and the engines for shooting of darts
and other warlike instruments were brought up, and that the reso-
lution of the king not to leave the assault was discerned, the besieged
were in a great consternation. But Alexander, wisely foreseeing
what would be the issue, commanded the guard that he had left at
the passage to withdraw, that so the enemy might have free liberty to
depart, if they chose it.
Upon which the barbarians, affrighted by the valour of the Mace-
donians, and the king's brave resolution, in the night left the fort,
The Indians being thus frighted with a scarecrow, the king gained
the rock without any considerable loss; and then, having rewarded
his guide, marched away with his forces to other places.
About that time there was one Aphrices, an Indian, that lay in
those parts with an army of twenty thousand men, and fifteen ele-
phants: him the Indians killed, and brought his head to Alexander,
and by that means gained his favour. He possessed himself likewise
of all the elephants in that tract, and received the Indians into his
protection. Thence he moved to the river Indus, where, being for-
nished with some ships of thirty oars a-piece, with them he made
a bridge over the river, and continued in that place for the space of
thirty days, to refresh his army, and there offered magnificent sacri-
fices to the gods.
After he had passed over his forces, there happened something
unusual and remarkable: one Taxiles, who formerly reigned in that
country, being lately dead, his son Mophis succeeded bim; this
Mophis some time before had sent an ambassador to Alexander,
when he was in Sogdiana, to offer him his assistance against the
Indians that were then preparing to oppose him, and likewise pro-
mised to deliver up his kingdom into the king's hands. When the
king was thirty furlongs distant, Mophis and his friends marched to-
wards him with a well-appointed army, and elephants adorned and
fitted for battle. When Alexander saw so numerous an army ad-
vance, he believed the Indian had made a cloak of his promises to
cover his fraud, and by that means to surprise the Macedonians
unawares; therefore he commanded the trumpets to give the signal
of battle, and drew up his army in battalia, and advanced towards the
Indians. But Mophis, being informed of the sudden commotion that
was amongst the Macedonians, and easily judging the occasion,
commanded his army to make a halt, and he himself, with a few in
his company, posted away, and presently undeceived the Macedo-
nians, by delivering up himself and his army (which was the strength
of the kingdom) into the power of the king; who was so well pleased
230
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
with what the barbarian bad done, that he restored him to his king-
dom, and ever after found Taxiles (for so he was called) bis constant
and faithful friend and associate. And these were the transactions
of this year.
CHAP. X.
Alexander overcomes Porus. How Apes are taken. Strange
serpents for venom. Large trees. He marches against the
Andrastians, Cathari, and against Sophithes. The custom of
them under Sophithes. Indian dogs. Alexander entertained by
Phigeus. The Macedonians refuse to march against the Gan-
daritæ, Alexander leaves monuments behind him at the river
Hydaspes. Nicæa and Bucephalus built. The Iberians present
Alexander. He routs the Agalasses. Is in danger in the
river Indus, by whirlpools. Marches against the Oxydrace
and Mallii. The king leaps off the wall into the town. A
duel between Coragus and Dioxippus. The Sambestæ submit
to Alexander; and also the Sogdiani and Massani. Subdues
Musicanus, Porticanus, and Sambus. Poisoned weapons. The
king's dream. Comes into the main ocean. Comes into Gedra.
sia. The savageness of the people. His army near perishing
in Gedrosia. Comes into Carmania. Punishes the Bormcial
Goremours. Nearchus returns. Islands covered at high tides.
The strange death of Calanus. Alexander marries Statira.
Harpalus's luxury. Alexander seizes with his own hand then
that had mutinied.
AT the time when Chremes was lord-chancellor at Athens, and Puls-
lius Cornelius and Aulus Posthumius executed the consulship at
Rome, Alexander, after he had refreshed his army in the province of
Taxiles, marched against Porus, prince of the neighbouring Indians,
who had in his army above fifty thousand foot, three thousand horse,
above a thousand chariots, and a hundred and thirty elephants, and
was confederated with another neighbouring king, called Embisarus,
not inferior in power to Porus, Alexander, understanding that he
was not above four hundred furlongs distant from Porus, advanced
with a resolution to fight him before the other joined him. Porus
perceiving him to approach, drew up his horse in two wings; his
a
a
Chap. X.
231
'DIODORUS SICULUS.
elephants, so accoutred as to terrify his enemies, he placed at equal
distances one from another in the front, and lined them with his
armed men, who were commanded to guard and defend them from
darts and arrows in the flank. The whole army drawn up thus in
battalia, seemed like a city: for the elephants stood like so many
towers, and the soldiers placed among them resembled the walls.
Alexander, on the other hand, (observing how his enemies were drawn
up), so disposed and ordered his own men as the present circum-
stances of his affairs then required.
The horse engaged in the first place, and thereupon almost all the
Indian chariots were presently broken in pieces; afterwards the ele-
phants being made use of, (by the mighty, bulk of their bodies, and
their great strength), bore down and trod under foot many of the
Macedonians; others were , catched up in their trunks, and tossed
into the air, and then fell down again with great violence upon the
earth, and so miserably perished; many, likewise, were so rent and
torn with their teeth, that they died forthwith. However, the Ma-
cedonians with invincible courage endured all the hardships where-
with they were pressed, and with their sarissas killed the soldiers that
guarded the elephants; so that now they fought upon equal terms:
and not long after, the beasts being plied with darts on every side,
and not being able longer to endure the many wounds they received,
their riders were not able to rule them, insomuch that they furiously
rushed backwards, and broke in upon their own regiments, and trod
many of them under foot, which caused great disturbance and con-
fusion. Upon which Porus, mounted upon the bravest elepliant,
(seeing how things were likely to be), commanded forty of those that
were not as yet startled and affrighted, to be placed round about him.
And with these he made so desperate and fierce a charge, that he
made a great slaughter amongst the Maeedonians; especially, being
a man of the strongest body of all those that were with him; for he
was five cubits high, and in bulk proportionable, so that his breast-
plate was twice as big as any of the rest of the strongest men a-
mongst them, and he threw.a dart with as great force as if it had
been shot out of an engine. But this extraordinary strength of
Porus did not at all terrify the Macedonians that were placed in the
front against him: Alexander therefore commanded the archers and
light-armed men, with all their darts and arrows, to make at Porus
kimself, who did as they were commanded: so that such a multi-
tude of archers were got together in one body, and such showers of
darts and arrows poured out upon him, that they could not possibly
miss their mark. Porus at length, (having fought with great valour
and resolution), by a multitude of wounds, lost so much blowd that his
232
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
spirits failed him, and he fell down from his beast to the ground.
Upon which, it being presently spread abroad that the king was dead,
the rest of the Indians fled, and thereupon a great slaughter was made
amongst them.
Alexander having thus gained this glorious victory, at length com-
manded his trumpets to sound a retreat. But there were killed in
this battle above twelve thousand Indians, amongst whom were two
sons of Porus, the generals of his army, and the chiefest of his com-
manders. There were taken above nine thousand prisoners, and four-
score elephants. As for Porus, he was not yet quite dead, and there-
fore Alexander recommended him to the care of the Indians them
selves, for the dressing of bis wounds. There fell of the Macedo.
nians two hundred and fourscore horse, and above seven hundred
foot, whom the king took care to have decently buried, and rewarded
those that survived who had merited by their valour. He sacrificed,
likewise, to the sun, through whose favour and assistance he had
conquered the east. The neighbouring mountains being clothed with
great numbers of fir-trees, cedars, and the pitch-tree, the place af-
fords plentiful materials for the building of ships; and therefore he
built as many here as he had occasion for: for he designed, when
he came to the utmost bounds of India, after he had subdued those
nations that lay in his way, to pass along through the river into the
ocean.
In the mean time, he built two eities in those parts, one upon the
farther side of the river* where he passed over; the other where he
overcame Porus, and both were presently perfected, having many
hands at work.
Porus being recovered, he restored him to the possession of his
kingdom; and, because there was plenty of all sorts of provisions,
hé suffered his army to lie still and refresh themselves for the space
of thirty days.
There are some things very remarkable, and worth observing, in
the mountains near where they encamped: for, besides the materials
for shipping, this tract abounds with serpents of a vast bigness, six-
teen cubits in length, and breeds a sort of apes to be admired both
for their number and the greatness of their bodies. The nature of
the beast has instrueted the hunter how to take her: for they are
apt to imitate every action they see; but, because of their strength
and natural sagacity, it is very difficult to take them by force. There-
fore some of the hunters anoint their eyes with honey, and others put
on shoes in the sight of the apes; and some there are that clap upon
their heads looking-glassest: then they leave some shoes behind
• River Hydaspes. + Glasses wade hollow like caps.
Chap. X.
233
DIODORUS SICULUS.
them, with bands fixed to them, and instead of boney lay bird-lime,
and within the glasses are ropes to run on rooses.
When they are
gone, the poor creatures begin presently to imitate what they saw done,
and so are deluded; for their eye-lids are glued together, their feet
are fast bound, and their whole bodies held by the snares; and so
they become an easy prey to the hunter.
Afterwards, Alexander forced Einbisarus (who had been so slow in
assisting Porus, and was now in a consternation) to a submission;
and then he passed the river with his forces, and made his way through
a most fruitful country: for here are strange sorts of trees, seventy
cubits high, and of that thickness that four men can scarcely compass
them, and cast a shade three hundred feet distance,
There are likewise in this tract multitudes of serpents of small
bodies, but for their various colour most remarkable: for thousands
lie like rods, yellow as brass; others have very rough and hairy
breasts, and whoever is bitten by them falls down dead immediately.
If any be stung by them, he is most horridly tormented, and a bloody
sweat issues out at all the pores of his body. The Macedonians, to
secure themselves from these mischiefs, hung up their beds on the
limbs of these trees, watching the greatest part of the night; but at
length, by some of the inhabitants, they were directed to a root which
was an antidote against the poison.
After the king had moved from thence, he was informed that
Porus, a neighbouring prince, nephew of the Porus lately vanquished,
was fled out of his kingdom, and gone to the Gandaritæ. At which
Alexander was not a little troubled, and thereupon sent Hephæstion
with a considerable body of men into his dominion, and ordered him
to reduce it into the nature of a province, and to deliver it into the
hands of his friend Porus. He himself marched into the country of
the Audrastians, and gained some of their cities by assault, and others
by surrender.
Thence be came into the country of the Cathari, where by the law
the living wives are burnt together with their dead husbands; and the
wickedness and treachery of one woman, who poisoned her husband,
was the occasion of this law. There the king burnt down to the
ground the greatest and strongest town of all others in those parts,
after he had with great difficulty and hazard taken it by assault.
The inhabitants of another town, which he was ready to assault,
came forth, and humbly submitted themselves to him, upon which he
spared them.
Hence he led his army to the cities belonging to Sophithes, which
were governed by most excellent laws; amongst the rest they strictly
observe this --To value their beauty and comely proportion above all
VOL. 2, No. 43.
HI
234
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
other things; and therefore they carefully examine every part of the
child when it is in the cradle, and such as are sound and perfect in
every limb and member, and likely to be strong and comely, they
nurse and bring up; but such as are lame and deficient, and of a weak
habit of body, they kill, as not worth the rearing. They have the
same regard to their marriages; for without any regard to portion,
or any other advantages, they only mind the beauty of the person,
and the health and strength of their bodies. Hence it is, that those
who live in those cities, are for the most part more beautifuland comely
than others. But Sophithes the king surpassed all the rest of his
subjects for admirable beauty and stately proportion; for he was a-
bove four cubits high: he came forth from his royal city, and gave
up himself and kingdom into the hands of Alexander; and from the
bounty of the victor forthwith received it back again; and thereupon
he nobly feasted Alexander and all his army for several days together.
And after many rich presents made to him, he presented him with a
hundred and fifty dogs of a wonderful strength and bigness, and of
other most remarkable properties. It was said they were brought forth
by tigers, who had coupled with dogs. Alexander wishing by an ex-
periment to try their strength and courage, caused an exceeding great
lion to be brought into the circus, and then loosed at him two of the
weakest of the dogs; which proving too weak, he let go two others.
The lion being now surrounded by four, and overpowered, Sophithes
sent one with a sword, who began to cut off the right thigh of one
of the dogs: upon which the king called out, and thereupon the
squires of his body ran to the Indian, and held his hand: but So
phithes wished them to let him alone, and promised to give three for
that one. The huntsman therefore laid hold again on the dog's thigh,
and cut it off by little and little; and all that while the dog neither
howled nor made the least noise; but held fast his hold till he fell
down dead upon the lion.
In the mean time Hephæstion returned with those troops before
sent along with him, having subdued a great part of India wherever
he came, and was hereupon honoured by the king with all deserved
praises.
Next Alexander marched into the kingdom of Phigeus, where all
the Macedonians were welcomed by the inhabitants, and Phigeus
himself meeting him with rich gifts and presents, willing to receive
from him his kingdom as a gift of his bounty; which Alexander ac-
cordingly restored to him: and both he and his army being enter-
tained by Phigeus for two days, he then moved forward to the river
Hydaspes, which is seven furlongs over, and six fathoms deep, of a
very fierce stream, and difficult to pass. He had learned from Phi-
a
Chap. X.
235
DIODORUS SICULUS.
geus, that beyond the Indus was a vast desert of twelve day's jour-
ney; and at the farthest borders thereof, ran the Ganges, two-and-
twenty furlongs broad, and the deepest of all the rivers in India: and
that beyond this river, there dwelt the Tabresians, the Gandaritæ,
whose king's name was Xandrames, who had an army of twenty thou-
sand horse, and two hundred thousand foot, two thousand chariots,
and four thousand elephants. The king could not believe this to be
true, and therefore sent for Porus, and inquired of him whether it
was so or not. He told him all was certainly true; but that the pre-
sent king of the Gandaritæ was but of a mean and obscure extrac-
tion, accounted to be a barber's son. For his father being a very
a
beau-
tiful and handsome man, the queen fell in love with him, and then
murdered her husband; and so the kingdom devolved upon the pre-
sent king.
Alexander, however, though he perceived that the expedition a-
gainst the Gandaritæ would be very difficult, yet through a desire
he still had to gain further glory, would not wave it; but confiding
in the valour of the Macedonians, and the answers he had received
from the oracles, hoped to conquer all the barbarians wherever he
went: for he remembered that at Delphos he was called by the oracle
Invincible, and that the empire of the whole world was promised to
him by Jupiter Ammon. But discerning that his soldiers were even
tired out with continual marches, (for they had now toiled them-
selves with extreme hazards for eight years together), he judged it
necessary to make a speech to his army, to persuade them to under-
take with him this expedition against the Gandaritæ. For now he
had lost many soldiers, and no hopes or prospect remained of ending
the war: nay,
their
very
horse's hoofs were worn away by their con-
tinual marches, and many of their arms wasted and become useless.
And besides, all their Greciau habits and clothes were worn out, and
they were forced to make use of the barbarian stuff, and cut the Indian
plaids in pieces to make themselves clothes. ·And it happened like-
wise, about that time, that there poured down from heaven fearful
storms of rain, with terrible thunder and lightning, which continued
for seventy days together. All which, though they happened cross
to his designs, as he conceived, yet he judged there was one way still
left for him to accomplish what he so much desired, and that was by
bounty and liberality to gain the hearts of his soldiers. To that end,
he gave free liberty to the soldiers to ravage and plunder all over the
enemy's country, which was rich, and abounding in all good things.
While the army was thus employed in spoiling and plundering, he
called together the soldier's wives and all their children; and among
the wives he ordered corn to be distributed every month; and com.
236
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
manded so much money to be paid to the children, as their father's
pay amounted to.' When the soldiers returned to the camp, loaded
with abundance of rich prey, he called them all together, and made
a handsome studied speech to them, to persuade them to march along
with him against the Gandaritæ; but not being able upon any terms
to prevail with the Macedonians, he left off that design. And now
determining there to put an end to all his expeditions, in the first
place he erected twelve altars to the twelve gods, every one fifty cu-
bits high. Then he drew a trench round his camp thrice as large as
the former, and made it fifty foot broad, and forty deep; and by the
earth out of the trench, cast up a strong mud wall on the inner side.
He commanded likewise every foot-soldier to provide two beds in
his tent of five cubits high; and every horseman (besides two beds
of the same size) to make mangers twice as big as any other; and
that every thing they left behind them should be enlarged in the same
proportion. And this he did partly to leave behind him monuments
of his heroic actions, and partly to make the world believe, that
those with him were men of mighty stature, and stronger than any
other. When this was done, he marched back with all his army the
same way he came to the river Acesines, where he found some ships
in building, which he ordered to be perfected, and built several
others.
About that time came to him supplies out of Greece, both of auxi-
Hiaries and mercenaries, to the number of about thirty thousand foot,
and almost six thousand horse. There were likewise brought to him
at the same time arms for five-and-twenty thousand men most curi-
ously wrought, and a hundred talents weight of all sorts of medicines
and physical preparations; and all these he distributed amongst the
soldiers. His ships now with all their tackle and furniture were com-
pletely rigged, of which there were two hundred open vessels, and
eight hundred transport ships for all manner of service. The two
cities he had built near the river, the one he called Nicæa, from a
victory there gained, and the other Bucephalus, from his horse that was
there killed in the battle against Porus.
Then he, together with his friends, went aboard, and sailed down
the river, with an intent to fall down to the southern ocean; but a
great part of the army marched along the river side, under the com-
mand of Craterus and Hephæstion. He came now to that place
where the rivers Hydaspes and Acesines ineet together, Here he
Janded his soldiers, and marched to the borders of the Iberians; these
are said to be descended from them who besieged the rock Aornos
with Hercules; and after they had been defeated in that design, were
planted in this country by that hero. Here he encamped near an
Chop. X.
237
DIODORUS SICULUS.
eminent city of greatest command in those parts: the citizens went
out to the king, and were admitted to converse with him; and there
they renewed the memory of their antient kindred, and promised to
perform all offices of respect and kindness, as became so near rela-
tions; and sealed and confirmed what they said with extraordinary
rich presents. The king received them very graciously, and in retura
permitted all their cities to govern according to their own laws.
Thence he moved towards the bordering nations, amongst whom
be found the Agalasses had raised an army of forty thousand foot, and
three thousand horse: Alexander fought them, and routed them; many
were killed upon the spot, and the rest fled into holes and dens, and
the neighbouring towns and villages; which being afterwards taken,
they were all sold for slaves. There were twenty thousand of the rest
of the inhabitants that got together for shelter into a great city,
which he took by storm, although the Indians, blocking up the
pas-
sages, fought resolutely from the tops of their houses, and killed mul-
titudes of the Macedonians, which put him into such a rage, that he
set the town on fire, and burnt most of them in it; so that only three
thousand remainod, who ded into the castle, and sued for pardon and
obtained it.
Then he with his friends went on board again, and sailed down the
river to the place where the two rivers, (as was said before), and like-
wise the Indus, now met together. But these great rivers rushing in one
upon another in one and the same place, there were most terrible
whirlpools, where the ships that fell into them where so whirled about,
that there they perished. And the stream was so fierce and violent,
that no pilot could govern their ships; so that two long ships were
sunk, and many of the rest driven upon the shore. The king's ship
was likewise catched in a whirlpool, and he himself now in the ut-
most extremity and danger of losing his life; which he perceiving,
stripped himself naked, and prepared for the last remedy. Where-
upon his friends came round the ship, endeavouring with all their
might to take in the king, in case his ship perished. A great hurry
and confusion there was, while the men strove with the violence of
the waves, but the river overmatched both their strength and skill.
Yet the king with great difficulty, by the help of the ships, was at
length brought to land. Being thus unexpectedly preserved, he
sacrificed to the gods for his deliverance, and that he had, like ano-
ther Achilles, conquered the river itself. Thence he marched against
the Oxydracæ and Mallii, populous and warlike nations of la-
dia, whom he found ready prepared with an army of above fourscore
thousand foot, and ten thousand horse, and seven hundred chariots.
These people were at war amongst themselves, before the king
238
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULOS.
amongst them; but, being terrified at his approach, they were forced
to agree, and confederate against him; and, in confirmation of their
league, they mutually disposed of ten thousand virgins in marriage,
and thereby entered into affinity one with another. However, they
came not against him with their armies into the field, but afterwards
fell at variance one with another concerning the chief command, and
drew away here and there into the neighbouring cities. Alexander
approaching to the capital city *, designed without any further de-
lay to assault it; but one Demophoon, a soothsayer, dissuaded the
king from his purpose, alleging --That by certain signs and prodigies
(by him observed) were portended, that the king would be in ex-
treme danger by a wound received in this siege; and therefore en-
treated him that he would wave this town, and apply himself to some
other affair. Upon this the king was very angry, because he discou-
saged the soldiers; therefore, preparing all things necessary for an
assault, he himself led up his men to the walls, with an undaunted
spirit, eager to gain the place by force. His men being slow in fix-
ing the engines, (as he thought), he was the first that broke through
the gate into the city, upon which many were hewn down, and the
rest fled, whom he pursued to the very castle. And, because the Ma-,
cedonians came not up so readily to make the assault as he expected,
he took a scaling-ladder himself, and set it to the castle-wall, and,
holding his buckler over his head, mounted the ladder; and he was
so quick, that, before they within could force him back, he had gained,
the top of the wall. None of the Indians durst engage him hand to
hand, but they so plied him with darts and arrows at a distance, that
he was over pressed.
In the mean time, the Macedonians had applied two scaling
ladders; but, too many thronging up at once, the ladders broke, and
down they all fell to the ground. The king, being then left without
any hope of relief, grew so desperate, that he did what is worth spe-
cial remark, and almost incredible: for, looking upon it as a diminu-
tion of his glory to make a retreat down amongst his own soldiers, he
leaped off the wall, with his arms in his hand, into the townt. Then
the Indians came rushing upon him in droves, and he received their
assault with great resolution : for, having a tree which grew near to
the wall on his right hand, and the wall on his left, he more easily
defended himself, standing his ground with that courage and resolu-
tion as became a king that had performed such noble acts, coveting
to end his days by a glorious and honourable death. Having now
• of the Oxydracæ.-Vid. Appian, lib. 2; Bell. Civil. latter end; and Curties,
1. ix. sect. 5.
† Castle-yard rather.
:
Chap. X.
239
DIODORUS SICULUS.
received many cuts upon his helmet, and as many on his shield, at
length he received so grievous a wound under one of his breasts, that
it brought him down upon his knees. Upon which the Indian that
wounded him ran (heedlessly) upon him to give him another blow;
but the king thrust his sword through his body, and there he fell
down dead. Then, raising himself up by the help of a bough of
the tree, he challenged any of the Indians who had a mind to fight
with him.
And now came in to his relief Peucestes, one of his guard, being
one of the first that had by other ladders scaled the wall, and after him
came several others; so that the barbarians being now in a fright,
Alexander was at length rescued and preserved.
The city being thus taken, the Macedonians (being enraged upon
account of the king) put all the men they found to the sword, and
filled every place with dead carcases.
In the mean time, while the king lay ill of his wound, the Gre-
cians that were distributed into several colonies throughout Bactria
and Sogdiana (having for a considerable time before been dissatisfied
at their plantations amongst the barbarians, and now encouraged
upon the report that Alexander was dead of his wound) rebelled a-
gainst the Macedonians, and got together, to the number of about
three thousand, and endeavoured with all their might to return into
their own country; but they were every man cut off after the death
of Alexander.
The king, after he was recovered of his wound, appointed a so-
lemn sacrifice to the gods, in order to give thanks for his recovery,
and sumptuously feasted all his friends. In his feasting and drink-
ing there happened a circumstance very remarkable, and fit to be
taken notice of: amongst other friends, there was one Coragus a
Macedonian invited, a strong-bodied man, and one that had often
behaved himself with great gallantry in several encounters. This
man in bis cups challenged one Dioxippus, an Athenian, to fight a
duel; who was a champion, and had won many noble prizes and vic-
tories. The matter was pushed forward by the guests, as is usual at
such times. Dioxippus accepted the challenge, and the king ap-
pointed the day.
As soon as it was day, many thousands of people flocked together
to see the combat. The king, with his Macedonians, favoured Cora.
gus; the Grecians wished well to Dioxippus. The Macedonian
came into the list neatly accoutred, glittering in his arms, The
Athenian presented bimself stark naked, all over anointed with oil,
with a cap upon his head. Their persons were both so admirable for
240
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
strength of body, and presence of mind, that it seemed as if two of
the gods were to fight a duel: for the Macedonian, for his stature
and the brightness of his arms, looked like Mars; Dioxippus, (be-
sides his being the stronger man), in his carrying of a great club,
and activity in feats of arms, resembled Hercules. And now both
advanced one towards another: the Macedonian, when he came
near, cast bis javelin at Dioxippus, wbich he avoided by a little mo-
tion of his body. Then Coragus presently made at bim with his
Macedonian sarissa, which the other (advancing forward) broke in
pieces with his truncheon. The Macedonian thus twice defeated,
took to his sword; but, while he was drawing it, his adversary made
up to him, and prevented bim, catching hold of his arm with his left
hand, and gave him such a blow with the other, that he laid him
at his feet. When he had him upon the ground, he set his foot upon
his Beck, and, lifting himself up, be turned about to the spectators:
upon which all the people set ap a great shout, in admiration of what
was done, and at the strength and valour of the man; but the king
ordered bin that was foiled to be let go, and then broke up the as.
sembly, and departed, not very well pleased at the misfortune of his
countryman.
But Dioxippus having now discharged his adversary, went off the
ground, and, for his famous and remarkable victory, bis countrymen
set a coronet upon his head, as one that had advaneed the honour
and reputation of the Grecians. But fortune suffered not this man to
rejoice long in his victory; for the king ever after bore a grudge
to him, and the king's friends, and all the courtiers, envied him :
therefore they persuaded one that waited at the table to put a golden
eup under his cushion; and, in the middle of the feast a complaint
was made that the cup was stolen; whereupon search was taade, and
the eup pretended to be found with Dioxippus, by which he was
greatly disgraced, and put out of countenance; and seeing the Ma-
cedonians come flocking about him, he rose from the table, and left
the place, and went to his lodging. But shortly after, he wrote a
letter to Alexander, complaining of the foul contrivances of his ene-
mies against him; and, after he had delivered it to his servants, to be
handed carefully to the king, he murdered himself,
It was certainly an imprudent act in bim to fight with a Macedo-
nian, but far more folly in him to destroy himself: therefore many
who blamed him for this piece of madness, added this to his further
disgrace_That a great body and a great wit seldom meet together,
When the king read the letter, he was exceedingly troubled at his
death, and would often commend him for his valour; and he wla
Chap. X.
241
DIODORUS SICULUS.
undervalued him when he was alive, now in vain wished for him when
he was dead, and came perfectly to understand the honesty of the
man, by the knavery of his accusers and slanderers.
And now the king ordered his army to march along the bank of
the river Indus, over against his fleet, and began again to sail down
into the ocean, and in his passage arrived at the country of the
Sambestians. These people for number and courage are nothing in-
ferior to any of the Indians, and their cities are democratical in their
government.
Having intelligence of the approach of the Macedonians, they
brought into the field threescore thousand foot, six thousand horse,
and five hundred chariots. But when the fleet drew near, they were
so terrified with the strangeness of the sight, and the fame and glory
of the Macedonians, which was noised abroad in all places, that the
old men among them dissuaded them from venturing a battle;
whereupon they sent fifty of the best quality as ambassadors to Alex-
ander, to pray his favour. The king (apon the address made to him)
granted them peace as they desired, and received large and honour-
able presents (becoming a demigod) from the inhabitants. Then
he received the submission of the Sogdiani and Massanii, who bor-
dered on both sides of the river. Here Alexander built another city
called Alexandria, on the banks of the river, and furnished it with a
thousand inhabitants. Afterwards he arrived at the kingdom of Mu-
sicanus*, whom he took and killed, and subdued his country. Then
he came to the territory of Porticanus, and took two cities upon the
first assault, and gave the spoil of them to his soldiers, and then
burnt them. Porticanus, who had fled for shelter into the castle,
was killed fighting in his own defence. Then he took all the cities
within his dominion by assault, and razed them to the ground, which
struck a great terror into the neighbouring inhabitants. Next he
wasted the territories of Sambusi, razing many of the cities, and
selling the citizens for slaves, and put to the sword above fourscore
thousand barbarians. These were the plagues the Brachmanes suf-
fered. All the rest who submitted (except such as were the authors
and ring-leaders of the defection) be pardoned. In the mean time,
king Sambus got away, with thirty elephants, into the farthest parts
beyond the river Indus, and so escaped.
Amongst the Brachmanes, the last city attempted was Harmatelia $,
i
Musicanus.—Strabo, lib. xv. p. 694,701, says he subunitted, (where see much more),
but afterwards revolted, and was crucified.
+ This territory belongs to the Bastans.-See Strabo, ib.
* The country of the Brachmanes who had revolted after submission.--See Curtius, 1.9.
Harmatelia.See Strabo, lib. xv. p. 723.
VOL. 2. No. 43.
II
242
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which greatly confided in the valour of its inhabitants, and the
strength of its situation. Here the king commanded some few of
his party to go up near to the place, and provoke the citizens to fall
upon them, and then to appear as if they fled: thereupon five hun-
dred approached to the very walls, who for their inconsiderable num-
ber were contemned by the enemy; three thousand, therefore, made
a sally out of the town upon them, whereupon they took to their
heels as if they had been in a great fright. But the king, with some
few of his troops, fell upon the backs of the pursuers, upon which
there was a smart engagement, and many of the barbarians were
killed and taken. But a great number of those that were killed and
wounded on the king's side were in a desperate condition: for the
barbarians had poisoned the heads of their weapons with a deadly
poison, which made them more courageous and forward to engage
with the king. This strong poison is made of certain serpents taken
by hunting, which, after they are killed, they lay out and expose to
the heat of the sun, when the heat does so fry their flesh as if it
were melting away, from which distils a sweaty moisture, wherein
the poison of the beast is conveyed, and may be discerned. The
working of this deadly poison is such, that a numbness and stupidity
presently seizes upon the body of him that is wounded, and in a
short time after follows most tormenting pains, convulsions, and
trembling, wreaking every member of the body. The skin grows
excessive cold and black, and the person vomits black choler: more-
over, a black frothy matter flows from the wound, which causes pu-
trefaction, and presently spreads all over the principal parts of the
body, and so the person dies in a most miserable manner. And
hence it was, that he who was ever so slightly touched was as much
tormented as he who had the greatest wounds. After all that were
thus wounded were dead, the king grieved for none so much as he
did for the misfortune of Ptolemy, (who reigned afterwards), and
whom at that time he dearly loved. There happened at this time
something extraordinarily remarkable in reference to Ptolemy, which
some ascribe to the special providence of God. He was a man that
was beloved of all, both for his valour and his wonderful obliging be-
haviour to every one, and therefore met with a cure worthy his kind
and gracious disposition. The king dreamed that he saw a serpent
with an herb in its mouth, which told him the nature and efficacy of
the plant, and where it grew: when he awoke, he presently searched
for the herb, and found it, and when he had bruised it made a poul-
tice of it, and applied it to Ptolemy's body, and gave him a potion of
the juice of the plant, and so restored him to perfect health. Others
also, when they came to know the sovereign use of the herb, were
3
Chap. X.
243
DIODORUS SICULUS.
cured by the same means.
But when Alexander now began to ap-
ply himself to the siege of Harmatelia, a strong and well-fenced
city, the inhabitants all came forth to him, and begged his pardon,
and delivered up themselves and their city into his hands, and so es-
caped punishment.
Then sailing with his familiar friends into the main ocean, he
found two islands, where he offered most magnificent sacrifices, and
threw many golden cups of great value, together with the drink-
offerings, into the sea. At length, having reared up altars to the
honour of Tethys and Oceanus, (supposing now that he had finished
the voyage he intended), he returned with the fleet up the river, and
arrived at the famous city Hyala*. This city is under the same
form of goveroment with that of Lacedæmon: for there were two
kings, of two several families, succeeding in one line, who had the
management and administration of their wars; but the chief au-
thority in civil affairs belonged to the senate. Here Alexander burnt
all the ships that were leaky and defective, and delivered the rest
of his fleet into the hands of Nearchust and some others of his
friends, with a comnand to sail all along the sea-coast, and dili-
gently observe every place, till they came to the entrance into the
river Euphrates. He himself raised his camp, and marched a long
way into the country, subduing all that opposed him, and using
those kindly who submitted to him: for the inhabitants of Abisaris
and Gedrosia he brought to submission, without any hazard or dif-
ficulty.
Afterwards, marching through many tracts of land destitute of
water, and as many deserts, he came to the borders of Neoris.
There he divided his army into three brigades: the first he gave to
Ptolemy, the other to Leonatus; the former he commanded to ha-
rass the sea-coasts, and the other the midland and champaign part
of the country. He himself wasted and spoiled the hilly country
and mountainous parts, and the places thereunto adjoining: so that
many countries being invaded all at one and the same time, all
places were filled with rapine, fire, and slaughter, from whence the
soldiers were loaded with rich booty, and many thousands perished
by the sword.
The bordering nations, being terrified by this destruction of peo-
ple, all delivered themselves into the power of the kingt. Here the
• City of Hyala, at the mouth of the river Indus.
+ This navigation described by Arrian, lib. vi. p. 143; and Pliny, Nat. Ilist. lib. vi,
c. 23. They set out from the island Patala, and city Xylenopolis, as by Arrian, lib.
cap. 23.-Vid. Ush. Aon. 266, and 269.
* In Rambacia.
244
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
king, having a desire to build a city near to the sea, and having found
a safe harbour, and a convenient place near to it, built one accord-
ingly, and called it Alexandria. Then he entered through ways made
by his pioneers into the country of the Neoritæ*, and presently
forced them all to submit.
These people are like all the rest of the Indians, both for laws and
manners, except in one thing, which is almost incredible: for the
kindred and relations of those that are dead (all stark naked, with
their lances in their hands) carry forth the dead bodies into some
wood or other belonging to the country, and there strip the corpse
of all its burying-clothes and other ornaments, and leave the body
to be food for the wild beasts: then they divide the garments of the
deceased, and sacrifice to the subterraneous heroes, and feast all their
friends.
Alexander afterwards marched into Gedrosia, all along the sea-
coast, and came at length among a most rude and savage people.
From their very birth to their old age they never cut their nails, but
suffer them still to grow; and the hair of their heads all grow in
locks, never combed out. They are of a swarthy complexion, (through
the parching heat of the sun), and cloth themselves with the skins of
wild beasts. They feed upon the flesh of whales cast up by the sea.
In building of their houses and cottages, they raise up their walls as
is usual, but the roofs are laid with the jaw-bones and ribs of whales,
of which they have somers and beams eighteen cubits in length; and
for tiles they use the whale-bone and fins of the same animal.
When Alexander with great toil had marched through this coun-
try, he came into a desolate wilderness, where nothing at all was to
be had for the support of man's life. So that many dying for want
of food, the whole army was not only altogether discouraged, but the
king himself was then overwhelmed with unusual sorrow and anxiety
of mind: for he looked upon it as a most miserable thing that those
who by the valour of their arms had conquered all wherever they
came, should now ingloriously perish for want of bread in a barren
wilderness. Therefore he sent away the swiftest couriers he could
find into Parthia, Drangina, Aria, and other bordering countries,
with orders, that with all speed they should meet him upon the bor-
ders of Carmania, with dromedary camels, and other beasts of bur-
then, loaded with bread and other necessary provisions: these hastened
away as they were commanded, and procured the governors of the
provinces to despatch abundance of provision to the place appointed.
By this extreme scarcity Alexander lost many of his men, and this
was the first mischief he met with in this expedition. Afterwards,
• Orilæ,
Chap. X.
245
DIODORUS SICULUS.
as they were marching, some of the mountaineers fell npon Leona-
tus's squadron, and cut off many of them, and then made back to
their countrymen; and this was another loss.
· When they had at length, with very great difficulties and hard-
ships, passed through this desert, they came into a rich and populous
country*. Here he rendezvoused bis whole army, and, after they had
refreshed themselves, celebrated a feast to Bacchus; and, dressed up
to make a show, like a pageant, he led the dance before his army
(which marched likewise in great pomp and state) for the space of
seven days together, spending all that time in revelling and drunken-
ness all the way he went.
When this was over, hearing that many of his officers and gover-
nors of provinces had abused their power, to the oppression and in-
jury of many, he punished them according to their demerits. Which
severity of the king being spread abroad, many who were conscious
of being guilty of the same crimes, began to fear the same punish-
ment; and therefore some who commanded the mercenaries made
a defection; others got together what money they could, and fled:
of which the king receiving intelligence, he wrote to all the gover-
nors and lord-lieutenants of Asia_That, as soon as they had read
his letters they should, without further delay, dishand all the mer-
cenaries.
About the same time, while the king was at Salmuntist, a sea-
port town, busy in making stage-plays, those who had been sent to
examine all the sca-coasts arrived with the fleet, who forthwith went
into the theatre, and addressed themselves to the king; and, after
they had made their obeysance, they acquainted him with what they
had done. The Macedonians so rejoiced at their return, that, as a
testimony of their joy, they set up a great acclamation, and filled the
whole theatre with exultations. Those that returned from the voyage
told him_There were wonderful tides of ebbing and flowing in the
ocean, and that at low water in the farthest parts of the sea-coasts
there appeared a great many large islands, which at the return of the
tide are all again laid under water, while a most fierce and violent
wind comes off from them to the continent, and causes the water to
be all of a foam: and, as the greatest wonder of all, they declared that
they met with whales of an incredible magnitude, which at the first
so terrified them, that they looked upon themselves as lost, and that
they and all their ships must in a moment perish together; but, all
of them at once setting up a great shout, and making a noise by
. In Carmania.---Vid, Curtius, lib. 9, ad finem.
+ Salmuntis, in Harmozia, now Ormus, in the gulf of Persia,
246
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
striking upon their arms, and sounding of trumpets, the monstrous
creatures were so terrified with a thing so unusual, that they made to
the bottom of the deep.
After the king had heard this relation, he ordered the sea-officers
to sail with the fleet to the Euphrates; and he himself in the means
time, marching through many countries with his army, came at last
to the borders of Susiana. At that time Calanus, an Indian, a great
philosopher, and much honoured by the king, ended his days in a
wonderful manner. Having now lived to be seventy-three years old,
and during all that time had never experienced any sickness of the
Jeast distemper, he proposed to put an end to his own life, supposing
that now both nature and fortune had brought him to the utmost
bounds of his felicity and well-being in the world. Being seized
apon, therefore, with sickness, which grew upon him more and
more every day, he desired the king that he would order a great fa-
peral pile to be erected, and that when he had placed himself upon
it, some of his servants should set it on fire. The king at first en-
deavoured to dissuade bim from this purpose; but, when he saw
he would not be moved, he promised that it should be performed as
he had desired.
The thing presently spread abroad, and, when the pile was finished,
multitudes of people flocked to see this strange sight: and there Ca-
lanus (according to the rules and dictates of his own opinion) with
great courage ascended the pile, and both he and it were consumed
together. Some who were present judged this act to be an effect of
madness, others nothing but a piece of vain glory, though some there
were who adınired bis noble spirit and contempt of death; and the
king caused him to be honourably buried.
When Alexander came to Susa, he married Statira, Darius's eldest
daughter: Drypetis, the younger, he married to Hephæstion. He
gave also wives to the chiefest of his friends, and married them to the
poblest ladies of Persia.
About this time thirty thousand Persians (very proper and hand-
some young men, and of strong bodies) came to Susa. These, ac-
cording to the king's command, had for some considerable time been
getting together, and had been trained up by their tutors and gover-
nors in martial discipline; and all of them, completely furnished
with Macedonian arms, encamped before the city, where they trained
and exercised before the king, and approved themselves so expert in
the management and handling of their arms, that they were honoured
by him with large and rich gifts: for, because the Macedonians re-
fused to pass over the river Ganges, and in the common assembly
would many times with a great tumult oppose the king, and mock är
Chap. X.
247
DIODORUS SICULUS.
his descent from Ammon, he got this body of Persians (who were
all about the same age) to be as a curb upon the Macedonian pha-
laax. And these were the things wherein Alexander employed him-
self at that time.
During this Indian expedition, Harpalus, who was made by Alexe
ander lord-high-treasurer of Babylon, almost as soon as the king kad
begun his niarch, (hoping he would never retum), gave himself up
to all manner of luxury and excess; for he was governor of a very
large province. In the first place, he followed a lewd course of
forcing and ravishing of women, and committing all sorts of abomi-
nable acts of uncleanness with the barbarians, by which luxurious
practices of wickedness he wasted the treasure committed to his
charge. He ordered great multitudes of fish to be brought to him
from distant countries, as far as from the Red Sea; and he was so
profuse in the daily provisions for his table, that all cried shame of
him, and none gave him a good word. He sent likewise for a fa-
mous strumpet from Athens, called Pythonice, to whom he gave
most princely gifts while she lived, and buried her with as much
state when she was dead, and built for her a most magnificent monu-
ment in Athens.
After her death he sent for another courtesan out of Attica, called
Glycera, with whom he lived at such a height of voluptuousness and
expense, as exceeded all bounds; but, that he might have a refuge.
to fly to, in case of the cross and destructive blasts of fortune, he
made it his business chiefly to oblige the Athenians. And therefore,
when Alexander returned from his Indian expedition, and had cut off
the heads of many of the provincial governors for their mal-adminis-
trations, Harpalus, fearing the same punishment, bagged up five
thousand talents of silver, and raised six thousand mercenary sol-
diers, and so left Asia, and sailed for Attica. But, when he perceived
that none were forward to come in to him, he left his soldiers at Te-
narus in Laconia, and, taking part of the money with him, fled to the
Athenians for protection: but, being demanded to be delivered up,
by letters from Antipater and Olympias, (having first distributed large
rewards amongst the orators that had pleaded for him, and managed
his concern with the Athenians), he withdrew himself, and Aed to his
soldiers at Tenarus. Thence he sailed to Crete, aud there was mur-
dered by Thimbron, one of his friends.
The Athenians likewise (examining the matter concerning the
money given by Harpalus) condemned Demosthenes, and several
other orators, for being corrupted by him with bribes.
About this time Alexander, at the celebration of the Olympic
games, caused public proclamation to be made by a herald_That
248
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
all exiles (except robbers of temples and murderers) should return to
their several countries: and he himself picked out ten thousand of
the oldest soldiers in his army, and discharged them from further
service; and, being informed that many of them were in debt, he
paid the whole in one day, to the amount of no less than ten thou-
sand talents. The rest of the Macedonians carrying themselves with
great insolence towards him, and in a general assembly with bawling
and noise contradicting him, he was so enraged and sharp in his re-
turns upon them, that they were all put into a great fright; and in
that rage he was so daring, that he leaped down from the tribunal,
and seized upon some of the ring-leaders of the mutiny with his
own hands, and delivered them to the lictors, to be executed. At
length, when he saw that the disorders and mutiny still increased,
he made officers of such of the Persians as he thought fit, and pre-
ferred them to the chiefest commands. Upon which the Macedo-
pians recollected themselves, and had much ado to regain Alexan-
der's favour, though they addressed themselves to him both with pe-
titions, and tears.
CHAP. XI.
Alexander mixes twenty thousand Persian darters with his army.
Marches from Susa. Bagistame breeds abundance of horses.
Hephestion dies at Ecbatana. The Lamian war. He invades
the Cussæi. Marches towards Babylon. The Chaldean astro-
logers dissuade him from coming thither. He enters Babylon.
AFTERWARDS, when Anticles was chief magistrate of Athens,
and Lucius Cornelius and Quintius Publius were consuls at Rome,
Alexander supplied the room of those he had discharged with Per-
sians, and chose a thousand of them to be squires of the body,
conceiving he might altogether as safely trust them as the Mace-
donians.
About this time Peucestes came with twenty thousand Persian
darters and slingers. These Alexander intermixed amongst his other
soldiers, by which means the army was brought into that due consti,
tution, that they were readily obedient to his command. There were
some of the Macedonians who had sons by the captives, whom, upon
Chap. XI.
249
DIODORUS SICULUS.
diligent inquiry he found to be ten thousand, and appointed them
masters to instruct them in all sorts of learning, and allowed suffi-
cient stipends for their liberal education.
Then he rendezvoused his army, and marched away from Susa,
and, passing the river Tigris, came to the villages called Carræ, and
there encamped. Thence in four days march he passed through
Sittace, and came to Sambea. Here he rested seven days, and re-
freshed his army. Thence in three days he marched to the towns
called Celonæ, in which place the posterity of the Boeotians settled
themselves in the time of Xerxes's expedition, and there remain
unto this day, having not altogether forgot the laws of their country:
for they use a double language, one learned from the natural inhabi-
tants, and in the other they preserve much of the Greek tongue; and
observe some of their laws and customs. Thence, when it grew
towards evening, he decamped and turned aside, and marched to
Bagistame, to view the country. This country abounds in all man-
ner of fruit-trees, and whatever else conduces either to the profit or
pleasure of mankind; so that it seems to be a place of delight both
for gods and men. Afterwards he came into a country that breeds
and pastures an innumerable company of horses; for they say, that
there had been here an hundred and sixty thousand horses that ran at
pasture up and down in the country; but, at the coming of Alex-
ander, there were only sixty thousand. He encamped here for the
space of thirty days. Thence, after seven encampments, he came
to Ecbatana, in Media. This city is two hundred and fifty furlongs
in compass, and is the metropolis of all Media, where abundance
of treasure was laid up. Here he staid some time, and refreshed
his army, and spent his time in feasting, drinking, and stage-plays:
at which time Hephæstion (one whom he loved above all others)
fell sick of a surfeit, and died; whose death very much grieved the
king, and he committed his body to Perdiccas, to be carried to Baby-
lon, because he intended to bury him with great pomp and state.
While these things were acting in Asia, Greece was full of tumults
and seditions, whence broke out the war called the Lamian War,
upon this occasion: after the king's order to the lord-lieutenants of
the provinces to disband all mercenary soldiers, and the execution
of those commands, many foreigners that were cashiered went strag-
gling over all Asia, and, for want of subsistence, robbed and spoiled
the country, till they all came into one body at Tenarus, in Laconia:
so likewise all the governors and commanders of the Persians that
were left got together what men and money they could, and came
all to Tenarus, and there joined their forces together. There they
created Leosthenes, an Athenian, (a brave-spirited man), general of
Vol. 2, No. 43,
KK
250
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the army; who then called a council of war, and, after having con-
sulted concerning the management of the war, disposed of fifty
talents to pay the mercenaries, and provided arms sufficient for the
present occasion. He sent, likewise, ambassadors to the Ætolians
(who were disaffected to the king) to join with them in arms. And
thus Leosthenes was altogether taken up io necessary preparations
for a war, of the greatness of which he had then a clear and evident
prospect.
Alexander now marched against the Cussæi, who refused to sub-
mit to his government. This people are a very warlike nation,
and inhabit the hilly and mountainous parts of Media; and there-
fore, confiding in their own valour, and the strength of their country,
never would be brought to admit of any foreign prince to reign over
them, and were never subdued during all the time of the Persian em-
pire; and at that time they were so very high, that they slighted the
valour of the Macedonians.
The king first gained the passes, and then wasted a great part of
the country of Cussæ; and, getting the better in every engagement,
killed many of the barbarians, and took many more prisoners. At
length the Cussæi, being worsted and beaten in every place, and
greatly concerned at the multitude of the captives, were forced to re-
deem their country by the loss of their own liberty; and so, giving up
themselves to the will of the conqueror, they obtained peace, upon
condition that they should be loyal and obedient for the time to come.
Thus Alexander conquered this nation in the space of forty days;
and, after he had built some cities at the most difficult passes in the
country, le marched away.
Socicles was now archon at Athens, and Cornelius Lentulus and
Quintius Popilius* Roman consuls, when Alexander, after the con-
quest of the Cussæi, marched thence towards
on. He always
rested awhile between every decampment, and, to ease his army,
moved very slowly. When he was about three hundred furlongs
from Babylon, the Chaldeanst, (as they are called), who were famous
for astrology, and used to prognosticate future events by the obser-
vation of the stars, (and by that means knew that the king would die
presently after he entered into Babylon), picked out some of the most
antient and expert of those of their profession, and ordered them to
signify the danger to the king, and, with all the arguments they could
use, to dissuade him from entering into the city; and to let him know
that he might avoid the danger, if he would rebuild the sepulchre of
Belus, which the Persians had destroyed, and alter his purpose, and
pass by the city.
* Publius.
+ Chaldean priests.
Chap. XN.
251
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Belephantes was the leading man of the Chaldeans that were sent
away; but he was afraid to address himself to the king, and there-
fore privately imparted all to Nearchus, (one of the king's familiar
friends), and desired him that with all speed he would acquaint the
king with the whole business. Alexander was much concerned when
Nearchus told him what the Chaldeans had prognosticated; and,
more and more considering and pondering in his thoughts the skill
and reputation of the man, was in no small consternation. At length
he sent away many of his friends to the city, but he himself turned
aside another way, and passed by Babylon; and, encamping two
hundred furlongs distant from the place, he there rested. At this all
were in astonishment; whereupon many philosophers came to him, as
well those that were followers of Anaxagoras, as other Grecians.
When they came to understand the cause of his fear, they earnestly
opposed what was said, with many philosophical arguments; by
which he was so convinced and changed, that he contemned all sorts
of divination whatsoever, and especially that of the Chaldeans, which
was every where so famous. Therefore now, as if his spirit, before
wounded, had been cured by the arguments of philosophers, he en-
tered Babylon with his army, where (as before) the soldiers were
kindly entertained by the citizens; and the plenty of provisions was
such, that all gave up themselves to ease and voluptuousness. And
these were the things acted this year.
CHAP. XII.
Ambassadors come to Alexander from all parts. He buries He-
phæstion with great state. The prodigies before Alexander's
death. His death. Durius's mother starves herself.
AGESIAS was now chief magistrate of Athens, and Caius Pætelius
and Lucius Papirius consuls at Rome, when the hundred and four-
teenth Olympiad was celebrated, in which Micinas of Rhodes was
victor. At this time ambassadors came to Alexander almost from all
parts of the world: some to congratulate his victories, others to
tender bim crowns, others to make leagues and alliances with him,
and many brought him very rich and noble presents; and some there
were that came to clear themselves from false accusations: for, be-
252
Book XVII
DIODORUS SICULUS.
sides those sent from the cities, states, and princes of Asia, many
ambassadors addressed themselves to the king from Europe and
Africa. Out of Africa, the Carthaginians, and the Phænicians of
Libya, and all bordering upon the sea-coasts as far as Hercules's
Pillars. Out of Europe, the Grecian cities, the Macedonians, the
Illyrians, many inhabiting Adria, the Thracians, and the Galatians,
a people that then first began to be known to the Grecians. These
all sent their ambassadors, of whom the king having a catalogue in
writing, he appointed in what order they should be severally admitted
to their audience. And, in the first place, those were introduced
that came about matters of religion; then those who brought pre-
sents; next, they that were at variance with the people bordering
upon them; then those were admitted, in the fourth place, who
came to treat upon concerns relating to their own country; and
lastly, those whose instructions were to oppose the restoration of the
exiles. And, among the religious, he first heard them of Elis;
after them the Ammonians, Delphians, and Corinthians; the Epi-
daurians likewise, and others; giving to them the pre-eminence, out
of reverence and veneration to the temples. He made it his great
business to return such grateful answers to all the ambassadors, as
that he might gain the good will and affection of every one of them.
When all this was over, he applied himself to the celebration of
the funeral of Hephæstion; and contrived (all that possibly he could)
so far to grace it with funeral pomp, as that it should not only ex-
ceed all that ever were before it, but likewise that it should never be
exceeded by any that was to come: for he most dearly loved him (as
much as the dearest friends that we have heard of ever loved one
another) when he was alive, and honoured him beyond comparison
when he was dead. He honoured him more than any of his friends
while he lived, although Craterus seemed to vie with him for Alex-
ander's affection: for, when one of the servants said, that Craterus
loved Alexander as well as Hephæstion did; Alexander answered
That Craterus was the king's friend, and Hephæstion Alexander's.
And at that time when the mother of Darius (through a mistake upon
the first view of the king) prostrated herself at the feet of Hephæs-
tion, and, coming to discern her error, was much out of counte-
nance..." Be not troubled, mother,' (says Alexander), for even he
is another Alexander.” To conclude, Hephæstion had such interest
with Alexander, and such free access and liberty of converse, that
when Olympias (who envied him) accused him and threatened him
by her letters, he wrote to her back again with severe checks, and
added these expressions-“ Forbear your slanders against me, and
bridle your anger, and cease your threats: but, if you will not, I
Chap. XII.
253
DIODORUS SICULUS.
value them not in the least; for you are not ignorant that Alexander
must be judge of all.”
The king therefore, taken up with the preparations for the funeral,
commanded the neighbouring cities to assist as much as possibly they
could towards its pomp and splendour; and commanded all the
people of Asia, that the fire which the Persians call the Holy Fire
should be put out, till the exequies of this funeral were fully finished,
as was used to be done in the funerals of the kings of Persia; which
was taken to be an ill omen to the king himself, and that the gods
did thereby portend his death. There were likewise other prodigies
bappened that clearly pointed out that Alexander's life was near at
an end; which we shall presently give an account of, when we have
finished our relation of the funeral. In order to this funeral, all his
chief commanders and noblemen (in compliance to the king's plea-
sure) made medals of Hephæstion graven in ivory, and cast in gold
and other rich metals. Alexander himself called together a great
number of the most exquisite workmen that could be bad, and broke
down the wall of Babylon ten furlongs in length, and took away the
brick of it; and then, levelling the place where the funeral pile was
to be raised, built thereon a foursquare pile, each square taking a
furlong in length: the platform he divided into thirty apartments,
and covered the roofs with the trunks of palm-trees. The whole
structure represented a quadrangle. Afterwards he beautified it
round with curious ornaments: the lower part was filled up
with two
hundred and forty prows of gallies of five tier of oars, burnished with
gold; upon whose rafters stood two darters, one on each side of the
beaks, of four cubits high, kneeling upon one knee; and statues of
men in arms five cubits high: all the divisions and open parts were
veiled with hangings of purple. That part next above this was set
with torches, of fifteen cabits high, in the middle part of every one of
which (where they were used to be held) were placed crowns of gold;
at the top, whence the flame ascended, were fixed eagles with their
wings displayed, and their heads stooping downwards. At the bottom
of the torches were serpents, facing and looking up at the eagles. In
the third range were exposed all sorts of wild beasts hunted; in the
fourth, centaurs all in gold combating one with another; the fifth
presented alternately to the view lions and bulls in massy gold. In
that part above these were placed the arms both of the Macedonians
and barbarians; the one signifying the victories over the conquered
nations, and the other the valour of the conqueror. In the highest
and last part of all, stood Sirenes, contrived hollow, wherein secretly
were placed those who sang the mourning song to the dead. The
height of the whole structure mounted up above a hundred and thirty
254
Book XI'II.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
cubits. To conclude, both commanders and common soldiers, am-
bassadors and the natural inhabitants, so strove to excel one another
in contributing to this stately funeral, that the charge and cost a-
mounted to above twelve thousand talents. And to grace it the more,
and make it more splendid, he conferred several other honours upon
these exequies. At length he commanded all to sacrifice to him
as a tutelar god: for it happened that Philip, one of his nobility, at
that time returned from the temple of Ammon, and brought word
from the oracle there _That Hephæstion might be sacrificed unto as
a demigod: whereat Alexander was very glad, hearing that the oracle
itself was an approver of his opinion; and thereupon he himself was
the first that offered, sacrificing ten thousand beasts of all kinds, and
making a magnificent feast for all the multitude.
When all the solemnity was over, Alexander gave himself up to
ease and a revelling course of life: and now, when he seemed to be
at the summit of worldly greatness and prosperity, that space of
life which he might have run through by the course of nature was cut
short by the determination of fate; and God himself, by many signs
and prodigies shewn in several places, foretold his death. For, when
he was anointing himself, and his royal robes and crown that while
lay upon the throne, the fetters of one of the natural inhabitants that
was then in chains unloosed and fell off of their own accord, and the
person, not being discerned by any of the watch, passed through the
court-gates without any opposition, and made strait to the throne,
and put on the royal robes and crown upon his head, and sat upon
the throne without any disturbance. Which action being noised a-
broad, the king was amazed at the strangeness of the thing, and went
to the place, and, without any rebuke, calmly asked the man_“ Who
he was, and who advised him to do so?” who plainly and simply an-
swered_" He knew nothing at all.” This strange accident was re-
ferred to the consideration of the augurs, by whose advice the poor
wretch was put to death, that the evil portended (if any were) might fall
upon his own head.
The king, having now got his robes again, sacrificed to the gods his
protectors: but, however, he continued much disturbed and perplexed
in his mind, and then began to reflect upon what the Chaldeans had
foretold; and fretted against those philosophers that persuaded him
to enter into Babylon, but admired the art and profound wisdom of
the Chaldeans. To conclude, he cursed those who, by subtle argu.
ments, had disputed against the necessity of fate.
Not long after, God shewed another prodigy concerning the change
of the kingdom: the king had a desire to see the haven* at Babylon;
* This he had newly made.
a
Chap. XII.
255
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and, being come there, he went on board with some of his nobles'
that attended him; and, while they were sailing, the king's ship was
separated from the rest, and tossed to and fro for several days toge-
ther, so as that he wholly despaired of his life; and, being at length
carried through a narrow creek, where bushes and trees grew thick
upon both sides, his turban, or diadem, was plucked off his head by
one of the boughs, and hurled into the water, which one of the mari-
ners seeing, swam to it, and, for the better securing of it, clapped it
upon
his own head, and swam back to the ship. After he had wan-
dered up and down three days and three nights, he returned at length
safe with his diadem to his friends, and again consulted the sooth-
sayers concerning this prodigy, who advised him immediately, with
all diligence, to offer splendid sacrifices to the gods.
But, at the time of these sacrifices, he was invited by one Medius,
a Thessalian, one of his friends, to a banquet; where, when he was
in his cups, and even drunk with wine, he quaffed off the great bowl
called Hercules's cup: whereupon, as if he had been struck with a
thunder-bolt, he gave a deep sigh, and was immediately led out by
his nobles, and so left the place. Those who had him in their charge
forthwith laid him upon his bed, and there diligently attended him,
His distemper increasing, his physicians were called in; but they
were not able to administer any thing for his relief,
At length his sickness was so violent, and his pains so great, that
he himself despaired of life, and in that condition drew off his ring
from his finger, and delivered it to Perdiccas. His commanders then
asked him_“ To whom, Sir, do you leave the kingdom?” He an-
swered_“To the most deserving." And when he uttered his last
words, he told them_That the chiefest of his friends and command-
ers would solemnize his funeral, when he was gone, with blood and
contention. And thus died Alexander, when he had reigned twelve
years and seven months, having performed such mighty acts as no
king ever did before him, nor any since, to this day.
But, because some writers differ as to the cause and manner of his
death, affirming that he was poisoned by a deadly potion given him,
it is necessary to relate what they have reported concerning this
matter. They say that Antipater, whom Alexander had made his
viceroy in Europe, fell out with Olympias, the king's mother, of
which at first very little notice was taken, because the king would
not hear any of the accusations against him. But afterwards, the
quarrels and heart-burnings growing still higher, the king, out of his
piety and awe to the gods, conceived it bis duty to gratify his mother;
whereupon he gave many apparent signs and tokens of the alienation
of his affections from Antipater. And, as further fuel to the flame,
256
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
the putting to death Parmenio and Philotas did not a little terrify and
affright the nobility: and therefore, it is said, Antipater ordered his
son, who was Alexander's cup-bearer, to put poison into his wine.
But, because he was a man of great power in Europe after the death
of Alexander, and that Cassander, his son, succeeded him in the king-
dom, many historians durst not say any thing in their writings of
poison. However, it is very apparent that Cassander was a great
enemy to the concerns of Alexander: for he suffered the body of
Olympias, after she was murdered, to lie with disdain unburied; and
he made it his great business to rebuild Thebes, which Alexander
had razed to the ground.
When the king was dead, Sysigambis, the mother of Darius, with
abundance of tears, bewailed the death of Alexander, and her own
desolate condition upon that account, insomuch that, to the last mi-
nute, she would neither eat, nor see the light; and so the fifth day
after died of hunger, in extreme sorrow, but with as much glory and
reputation.
Having now brought down our history to the death of Alexander,
as we designed in the beginning of this, we shall proceed to give an
account of the acts of his successors in the following book.
257
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XVIII.
PREFACE.
PYTHAGORAS the Samian, and some others of the antient natural
philosophers, held that the souls of men were immortal; and that to
foretel future events at the very point of death, when the soul is even
parting from the body, is the effect and consequence of this truth.
To which Homer witnesses, when he brings in Hector, while he was
even breathing his last, telling Achilles, that he would die within a
very short time afterwards. The same is attested of many others of
later times, and confirmed especially by the death of Alexander the
Macedonian, who, dying at Babylon, and being asked by bis com-
manders and those about him, at the time he was breathing his last
Who should succeed him? he answered _“ The most worthy;
for I foresee,” says he, “that great and grievous quarrels amongst
my friends will be the sacrifices to ine after my funeral.” Which
happened accordingly; for the chiefest of his commanders contested
together about the principality; and great wars, after the death of
Alexander, broke forth amongst them: whose actions are contained
in this book, which will clearly evidence to the studious reader the
truth of what is now said.
The former comprehended all the things done by Alexander, to the
time of his death. This present book, relating the actions of those
who succeeded, ends with the year next before the reign of Agatho-
cles, which makes a history of seven years.
Vol. 2. No. 43.
LL
258
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. I.
Quarrels about a successor to Alexander. dridæus made king.
The provinces divided amongst the chief commanders. Matters
contained in Alexander's note-books. Meleager executed by
Perdiccas. The Grecians revolt. A description of Asia. Py-
thon sent against the revolting Grecians, who were all cut off.
The Lamian war: the cause of it. Alexander's epistle to the
exiles. Leosthenes, the Athenian general. Lamia besieged.
Leosthenes killed: Antiphilus placed in his room,
WHEN Cephisodorus was chief magistrate of Athens, the Romans
created Lucius Furius and Decius Jovius consuls: about which time,
Alexander being now dead without issue, and so the government
without a head, there arose great dissentions and differences about
the empire. For the foot were for setting up Aridæus*, the son of
Philip, a weak-spirited man, labouring under many natural infirmi- .
ties: but the chiefest of the nobility and esquires of the body met
together in council; and, being joined with the squadron of horse
called the Social, they resolved to try it out with the Macedonian
phalanx.
Therefore they sent the most eminent commanders, among whom
Meleager was the chief, to the foot, to require them to observe com-
mands. But Meleager, (who was the most eminent man of the pha-
lanx), as soon as he came to the battalion which was of the greatest
account and esteem in the army, be said nothing at all of the busi,
ness for which they were sent; but, on the contrary, highly com-
mended them for their choice, and stirred them up against the op-
posers. Whereupon the Macedonians created Meleager their cap-
tain, and, with their arms, made out against the contrary party.
Those of the king's life-guard and esquires of the body marched
likewise out of Babylon, in order to fight; but the most interested
and popular men amongst them endeavoured all they could to make
peace on both sides. Upon which it was presently agreed, that Ari-
dæus, the son of Philip, should be made king, and called Philip, and
that Perdiccas, to whom the late king, when he was upon the point
of death, delivered his ring, should be invested with the executive
power of the kingdom; and ordered, that the esquires of the body
• Aridæus, the son of Philip, by one Philiana of Larissa, a strumpet, Justin, l. 13,-
c. 2, Plut.
Chap. 1.
259
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and the chief commanders should govern the provinces, and all be
observant to the commands of the king and Perdiccas.
Aridæus being thus made king, he called together a general coun-
cil of the chief commanders: and to Ptolomy Lagus he committed
the goverpment of Egypt; to Laomedon of Mitylene, Syria; to Pbi-
lotas, Cilicia; to Python, Media; to Eumenes, Cappadocia and
Paphlagonia, and the bordering countries, which were never entered
by Alexander all the time of his wars with Darius, through want of
convenient opportunity. To Antigonus he assigned the command
of Lycia, and the Greater Phrygia; to Cassander, Caria; to Me-
leager*, Lydia; to Leonatus, Phrygia all along the coast of the Hel-
lespont: and in this manner were the provinces divided. In Europe,
Thrace, with the nations bordering upon the sea of Pontus, were
committed to Lysimachus; and Macedonia, with those bordering
upon it, to Antipater. As for the rest of the Asiatic provinces, it
was thought most advisable not to alter, but to leave them under the
government of the former lord-lieutenants. The province next ad-
joining was intrusted with Taxiles, and the kings bordering upon
him: but the province adjoining to Mount Caucasus (called Paro-
pamisus) was assigned to Oxyartes, king of the Bactrians, whose
Jaughter Roxana Alexander had married. Arachosia and Gedrosia
to Siburtius; Aria and Drangioa to Stasander of Soloe; Bactriana
and Sogdiana were allotted to Philip; Parthia and Hyrcania to Phra-
taphernes; Persia to Peucestes; Carmania to Tlepolemus; Media to
Atrapes. The province of Babylon to Archon; and Mesopotamia
to Arcesilaus. Seleucus he created general of the brave brigade of
the Social horse. Hephaestion was the first commander of that bri-
gade, then Perdiccas, and the third was this Seleucus. He ordered
that Taxiles and Porus should enjoy the absolute authority within
their own kingdoms, as Alexander himself had before appointed. The
care of the funeral, and of preparing a chariot to convey the king's
body to Aminon, was committed to Aridæus.
But as for Craterus, the most noble of Alexander's captains, he
was some time before sent by Alexander, with ten thousand of the
old soldiers that were discharged from further service in the Persian
war, iato Cilicia, to put in execution some instructions in writing
given him by the king; which, after the king's death, his successors
determined should be no further proceeded in: for Perdiccas, finding
in the king's commentaries not only the vast sums of money intended
to be expended upon the funeral of Hephæstion, but likewise many
other things of extraordinary cost and charge designed by the king,
he judged it far more advisable to let them alone; but, lest he should
* Meleager for Megander.--Ush, Aon, 290, Arrian, lib. 3, p. 56.
260
Book XVIIT.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
seem to take too much upon him, and by his private judgment to de-
tract from Alexander's wisdom and discretion, he referred all these
matters to the determination of a general council of the Macedonians.
The chief and the most considerable heads of the king's purposes
contained in his books of remembrance were these _1. That a thou.
sand long ships, larger than those of three tier of oars, should be
built in Phænicia, Syria, Cilicia, and Cyprus, in order to an invasion
upon the Carthaginians, and others inhabiting the sea-coasts of Africa
and Spain, with all islands adjoining, as far as Sicily. 2. That a
plain and easy way should be made strait along through the sea-
coasts of Africa to Hercules's Pillars. 3. That six magnificent tem-
ples should be built, and that fifteen hundred talents should be ex-
pended in the cost of each of them. 4. That arsenals and ports should
be made in places convenient and fit for the reception of so great a
navy. 5. That the new cities should be planted with colonies, and
that people should be transplanted out of Asia into Europe, and others
out of Europe into Asia, to the end that, by intermarriages and mutual
affinities, he might establish peace and concord between the two main
continents of the world.
Some of the temples before mentioned were to be built in Delos,
Delphos, and Dodona; some in Macedonia, as the temple of Jupiter
in Dio; Diana's temple, in Amphipolis; another to Minerva, in
Cyrnus*, to which goddess he designed likewise to build a temple in
Ilium inferior to none for splendour and magnificence, Lastly, to
adorn his father Philip's sepulchre, he designed to erect a monument
equal to the biggest pyramid in Egypt, seven of which were by some
accounted the most stately and greatest works in the world.
These things being laid before them, the Macedonians, though
they highly commended and approved of Alexander's designs, yet,
because they seemed things beyond all measure impracticable, they
decreed all to be laid aside. Then Perdiccas caused those soldiers
that were turbulent, and exceeding inveterate against him, to the
number of thirty, to be put to death: afterwards, out of a private
grudge, he executed Meleager, (who betrayed his embassy, and car-
ried on the mutiny), as one that sought to undermine him.
: About this time the Grecians in the upper provinces revolted, and
got together a great army; against whom he sent Python, one of the
chiefest commanders. But we conceive it much conducing to the
better understanding of the history of things that were afterwards
done, if in the first place we declare the cause of the revolt, and the
situation of Asia, and the nature and extent of the provinces : for, by
this means laying before the eyes of the reader a map of the coun-
• Corsica.
Chap. 1.
259
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and the chief commanders should govern the provinces, and all be
observant to the commands of the king and Perdiccas.
Aridæus being thus made king, he called together a general coun-
cil of the chief commanders: and to Ptolomy Lagus he committed
the government of Egypt; to Laomedon of Mitylene, Syria; to Pbi-
lotas, Cilicia; to Python, Media; to Eumenes, Cappadocia and
Paphlagonia, and the bordering countries, which were never entered
by Alexander all the time of his wars with Darius, through want of
convenient opportunity. To Antigonus he assigned the command
of Lycia, and the Greater Phrygia; to Cassander, Caria; to Me-
leager*, Lydia; to Leonatus, Phrygia all along the coast of the Hel.
lespont: and in this mauner were the provinces divided. In Europe,
Thrace, with the nations bordering upon the sea of Pontus, were
committed to Lysimachus; and Macedonia, with those bordering
upon it, to Antipater. As for the rest of the Asiatic provinces, it
was thought most advisable not to alter, but to leave them under the
government of the former lord-lieutenants. The province next ad-
joining was intrusted with Taxiles, and the kings bordering upon
him: but the province adjoining to Mount Caucasus (called Paro-
pamisus) was assigned to Oxyartes, king of the Bactrians, whose
daughter Roxana Alexander had married. Arachosia and Gedrosia
to Sihurtius; Aria and Drangioa to Stasander of Soloe; Bactriana
and Sogdiana were allotted to Philip; Parthia and Hyrcania to Phra-
taphernes; Persia to Peucestes; Carmania to Tlepolemus; Media to
Atrapes. The province of Babylon to Archon; and Mesopotamia
to Arcesilaus. Seleucus he created general of the brave brigade of
the Social horse, Hephæstion was the first commander of that bri-
gade, then Perdiccas, and the third was this Seleucus. He ordered
that Taxiles and Porus should enjoy the absolute authority within
their own kingdoms, as Alexander himself had before appointed. The
care of the funeral, and of preparing a chariot to convey the king's
body to Ammon, was committed to Aridæus,
But as for Craterus, the most noble of Alexander's captains, he
was some time before sent by Alexander, with ten thousand of the
old soldiers that were discharged from further service in the Persian
war, into Cilicia, to put in execution some instructions in writing
given him by the king; which, after the king's death, his successors
determined should be no further proceeded in: for Perdiccas, finding
in the king's commentaries not only the vast sums of money intended
to be expended upon the funeral of Hephæstion, but likewise many
other things of extraordinary cost and charge designed by the king,
he judged it far more advisable to let them alone; but, lest he should
* Meleager for Menander. Usha Aon. 290, Arrian, lib. 3, p. 56.
>
body
260
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
seem to take too much upon him, and by his private judgment to de-
tract from Alexander's wisdom and discretion, he referred all these
matters to the determination of a general council of the Macedonians.
The chief and the most considerable heads of the king's purposes
contained in his books of remembrance were these-1. That a thou.
sand long ships, larger than those of three tier of oars, should be
built in Phænicia, Syria, Cilicia, and Cyprus, in order to an invasion
upon the Carthaginians, and others inhabiting the sea-coasts of Africa
and Spain, with all islands adjoining, as far as Sicily. 2. That a
plain and easy way should be made strait along through the sea-
coasts of Africa to Hercules's Pillars. 3. That six magnificent tem-
ples should be built, and that fifteen hundred talents should be ex-
pended in the cost of each of them. 4. That arsenals and ports should
be made in places convenient and fit for the reception of so great a
navy. 5. That the new cities should be planted with colonies, and
that people should be transplanted out of Asia into Europe, and others
out of Europe into Asia, to the end that, by intermarriages and mutual
affinities, he might establish peace and concord between the two main
* continents of the world.
Some of the temples before mentioned were to be built in Delos,
Delphos, and Dodona; some in Macedonia, as the temple of Jupiter
in Dio; Diana's temple, in Amphipolis; another to Minerva, in
Cyrnus*, to which goddess he designed likewise to build a temple in
Ilium inferior to none for splendour and magnificence, Lastly, to
adorn his father Philip's sepulchre, he designed to erect a monument
equal to the biggest pyramid in Egypt, seven of which were by some
accounted the most stately and greatest works in the world.
These things being laid before them, the Macedonians, though
they highly commended and approved of Alexander's designs, yet,
because they seemed things beyond all measure impracticable, they
decreed all to be laid aside. Then Perdiccas caused those soldiers
that were turbulent, and exceeding inveterate against him, to the
number of thirty, to be put to death: afterwards, out of a private
grudge, he executed Meleager, (who betrayed his embassy, and car-
ried on the mutiny), as one that sought to undermine him.
• About this time the Grecians in the upper provinces revolted, and
got together a great army; against whom he sent Python, one of the
chiefest commanders. But we conceive it much conducing to the
better understanding of the history of things that were afterwards
done, if in the first place we declare the cause of the revolt, and the
situation of Asia, and the nature and extent of the provinces : for, by
this means laying before the eyes of the reader a map of the coun-
Corsica.
1
Chap. 2.
261
DIODORUS SICULUS.'
tries, and the distances of places one from another, the relation will
be more plain and easy.
From Taurus, therefore, in Cilicia, to Caucasus and the eastern
ocean, a ridge of mountains stretch forth in a straight and continued
line throughout all Asia, as distinguished by several peaks and risings
of the bills from them; Mount Taurus has gained particular names.
By this means, Asia being divided into two parts, one rises towards
the north, the other descends towards the south; and, according to
these several climates, the rivers run contrary ways; some taking their
course into the Caspian sea, others into the Euxine, and some into
the northern ocean. These rivers, lying thus opposite one to another,
part empty themselves into the Indian sea, and another part into the
ocean adjoining to this continent; some, likewise, fall into the Red
Sea. In this manner, likewise, are the provinces divided: for some
lie towards the north, and others bend to the south. The first to-
wards the north borders upon the river Tanais, that is to say, Sog-
diana, with Bactria; and next to them Aria and Parthia. This pro-
vince surrounds the Hyrcanian sea*, which lies within its limits and
bounds. The next is Media, called by many names, from the places
included in it, and is the greatest of all the provinces. Then follows
Armenia, Lycaonia, and Cappadocia, all of a very sharp and cold
air. Bordering upon these, in a direct line, are Phrygia, both the
Greater, and that adjoining the Hellespont; in an oblique line lie
Lydia and Çaria. Pisidia stretches forth itself in length, and in a
parallel line equal with Phrygia on the right hand; and, on the side
of Pisidia lies Lycia. The Greek cities are situated upon the sea-
coasts of these provinces, whose names it is not necessary for our
purpose here to recite.
Thus situated (as we have related) are the northern provinces.
As to the southern, the first is India, under Mount Caucasus, a very
large and populous kingdom; for it is inhabited by many Indian na-
tions, the greatest of which is that of the Gandaritæ, against whom
Alexander made no attempt, by reason of the multitude of their ele-
phants. This territory is divided from the farther India by the
greatest river in those parts, being thirty furlongs broad. The rest
of India, (conquered by Alexander), a rich and fruitful country, and
watered by many rivers, borders upon this of the Gandaritæ: within
this part, besides many other kingdoms, were the dominions of Porus
and Taxiles. The river Indus (from which the country takes it
name) runs through it. Separated from India, next to it, was Ara-
chosia, Gedrosia, and Carmania, and with these was joined Persia,
wherein are situated the provinces of Susiana and Sitacana. Next
* Or rather adjoins to the Hyrcanian sea.
262
Book XVIH.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
follows the province of Babylon, extending itself as far as to Arabia
the desert. On the other side, where begins the descent*, you have
Mesopotamiat, lying between two rivers, Euphrates and Tigris, from
whence it had its name,
The higher Syria, and the countries upon the sea-coastst adjoining
to it, as Cilicia, Pamphylia, Syria Cavag, within which is Phænicia,
lie close to the province of Babylon. Upon the borders of Syria
Cava, and the desert next adjoining to it, (through which runs the
river Nile, and so divides between Syria and Egypt), appears Egypt
itself, the best and richest of all the provinces. All these countries
are scorching hot; for the southern climate is contrary in its nature
to the northern. These provinces, (conquered by Alexander), which
we have thus described, were divided amongst the chiefest of his
commanders.
But the Grecians that inhabited the opper provinces, who (through
fear while Alexander was alive) endured their being cast forth into
the utmost corner of the kingdom, now, when he was dead, being
urged by a desire to return into their own country, revolted, and to
that end unanimously chose Philo, an Enean born, to be their captain,
and had got together a considerable army of above twenty thousand
foot, and three thousand horse, all old expert soldiers, and brave and
valiant med.
Intelligence being brought of this revolt, Perdiccas chose by lot
out of the Macedonian squadrons three thousand foot, and eight
handred horse. Python, one of the squires of the body to Alexan-
des, a man of a high spirit, and a skilful commander, was chosen ge
peral by the army, and to him Perdiceas delivered the soldiers chasen,
as is before declared, and letters, likewise, to the lord-lieutenants,
whereby they were ordered to furnish him with ten thousand foot and
eight thousand horse, against the rebels. Python, being a man of
an ambitious spirit, was very ready to undertake this expedition: fur
he purposed to gain by all fair means possible these revolting Greeks,
and, by joining their forces to his own, to set up for himself, and re-
duce all those upper provinces under his own subjection. But Per-
diccas, suspecting his design, gave him express orders_That, having
overcome those rebels, he should put them all to the sword, and
divide the spoil amongst the soldiers. Python therefore marched
away with these men thus delivered, and, when he had received those
that were to join him from the lord-lieutenants, he made towards
the rebels with the whole army; and, having by a certain Epean
At the foot of Mount Taurus southward.
Mesopotamia signifies in the Greek tongue a place hetween two rivers,
The Mediterranean se3. O. Celosvrid.
Chap. I.
203
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
corrupted Lipodorus, who commanded a brigade of three thousand
men among the rebels, he routed them all: for, in the height of the
engagement, when the victory was doubtful, the traitor withdrew from
the rest of his fellow-soldiers, and, with his three thousand men,
marched up to the top of a rising ground; whereupon the rest (thiak-
ing that he had fled) broke all their ranks, and took to their heels.
Python being thus victor, sent a trumpet to the rebels, ordering them
to lay down their arms, and, upon capitulation, licensed them to re-
pair every man to his own home. It was no small joy to Python to
.
see things brought to such a pass as suited directly to his desigos;
for he had now all confirmed by oath, and the Grecians intermixed
among the Macedonians. But the Macedonians, remembering the
orders Perdiccas had given, and making nothing of their oaths, broke
faith with the Grecians: for on a sudden they fell unexpectedly upon
them, and put every man of them to the sword, and seized upon alt
they had. And so Python, being defeated in his design, returned
with the Macedonians to Perdiccas. And this was the state of affairs
in Asia at that time.
In the mean time, in Europe, the Rhodians cast out the garrison of
the Macedonians, and freed their city; and the Athenians began a
war against Antipater, which was called the Lamian War. It is in the
first place necessary to declare the causes of this war, that the pro-
gress of it may be the better understood.
Alexander, a little before his death, had ordered all the exiles and
outlawed persons of the Grecian cities to be recalled, as well to ad.
vance his own honour and esteem, as to gain the hearts of many in
every city by his elemency, who might stand up for his interest
against the innovations and defections of the Grecians. At the ap-
proach, therefore, of the time of celebrating the Olympiads, he seut
,
away Nicanor, a native of the city Stagira, with a letter concerning
the restoration of the banditties of Greece, and commanded it to be
proclaimed by the common cryer, who executed the command, and
read the letter, in these words
King Alexander, to the Banditties of the Grecian cities.
WE were not the cause of your banislıment, but will be of the re-
turn of you all into your own country, excepting such as are banished
for outrageous crimes; of which things we have written to Antipater,
requiring him to proceed by force against all such as shall oppose
your restoration.
When these orders were proclaimed, the people set up a great
shout, testifying their approbation : for those of them that were pre-
264
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS..
sent at the solemnity readily laid hold on the king's mercy, and re-
turned their thanks with expressions of their joy, and applauses of
his
grace
and favour: for all the banished men were then got toge-
ther at the Olympiads, above the number of twenty thousand. Many
there were who approved of their restoration as a prudent act; but
the Ætolians and Athenians were much offended at it; for the
Ætolians expected that the Enians who were banished out from a-
mong them should have undergone due punishment for their crimes :
for the king had made a great noise with his threats, that he would
pot only punish the children of the Enians, but that he himself
would execute justice upon the authors themselves. Whereupon
the Athenians would not agree by any means to part with Samos,
which they had divided by lot; but, because they were not at present
able to cope with Alexander, they judged it more advisable to sit still,
and watch till they found a convenient opportunity, which fortune
presently offered them: for Alexander dying in a short time after-
wards, and leaving no children to succeed him, they grew confident
that they should be able not only to regain their liberty, but likewise
the sovereignty of all Greece.
The vast treasure left by Harpalus, (of which we have particularly
spoken in the preceding book), and the soldiers that were disbanded
by the lord-lieutenants of Asia, were great supports and encourage-
ments for the carrying on of this war; for there were eight thousand
of them then about Tenarus, in Peloponnesus. They sent, therefore,
privately to Leosthenes the Athenian, wishing him that, without tak-
ing notice of any order by them, of his own accord so to dispose of
matters as to have those soldiers in readiness when occasion required.
Antipater likewise so contemned Leosthenes, that he was careless
and negligent in preparing for the war, and so gave time to the Athe-
nians to provide all things necessary for that affair.
Hereupon Leosthenes very privately listed these soldiers, and (be-
yond all expectation) had ready a brave army: for, having been a
long time in the wars in Asia, and often engaged in many great bat-
tles, they were become very expert soldiers. These things were
contrived when the death of Alexander was not generally known;
but, when a messenger came from Babylon, who was an eye-witness
of his death, the people of Athens declared open war, and sent part of
the money left by Harpalus, with a great number of arms, to Leos-
thenes, charging him no longer to conceal or palliate the matter, but
to do what was most conducive to the service of the commonwealth.
Whereupon, having distributed the money among the soldiers, as he
was commanded, and armed those that wanted, he went into Ætolia,
in order to carry on the war with the joint assistance of both nations.
Chap. I.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
265
The Ætolians joined very readily, and delivered to him, for the ser-
vice, seven thousand soldiers. Then he stirred up by his messengers
the Locrians and Phocians, and other neighbouring nations, to stand
up for their liberties, and to free Greece from the Macedonian yoke.
But in the mean time, the wealthy men among the Athenians dis-
suaded them from the war, but the rabble were for carrying it on
with all the vigour imaginable: whence it came to pass, that they
who were for war, and had nothing to live upon but their pay, were
far the greater number; to which sort of men Philip was used to say
-War was as peace, and peace as war. Forthwith, therefore, the
orators (who were in a body together, and closed with the humours
of the people) wrote down the decree That the Athenians should
take upon them the care and defence of the common liberty of
Greece, and should free all the Greek cities from their several garri-
sons; and that they should rig out a fleet of forty gallies of three
tiers of oars, and two hundred of four tiers of oars; and that all Athe-
nians under forty years of age should take up arms: that three of
the tribes should keep watch and ward in Athens, and the other seven
should be always ready to march abroad. Moreover, ambassadors
were sent to all the cities of Greece, to inform them.That the peo-
ple of Athens in the first place looked upon all Greece to be the com-
mon country of every Grecian, and that they had heretofore repulsed
the barbarians at sea, who invaded them with a design to enslave
Greece, and that now they had determined to oppose the Macedonians
for the common good, with their navies, lives, and fortunes.
The wiser sort of the Grecians judged the Athenians more forward
than prudent in passing this decree, and what they had designed
seemed to carry an honourable aspect, but nothing of profit and ad-
vantage to the state: for that they made a stir and bustle unseason-
ably, and began a war against mighty and victorious armies when
there was no necessity for it; and, though they had the repute of a
prudent people, yet they considered not the notorious ruin and de-
struction of Thebes.
However, when the ambassadors came to the cities, and by their
usual florid way of address had heated and urged them on to the war,
many confederated in the league, some in the names of their several
cities, and others in the names of whole countries. As for the rest
of the Grecians, some sided with the Macedonians, and others stood
neuter. But all the Ætolians generally (as is before said) entered
into the confederacy; and after them all the Thessalians, except them
of Pellene. Likewise the Etians, except the Heracleans. The
Phthiotians amongst the Achaians, except the Thebans. The Elians,
except the Malians. Then generally all the Dorians, Locrians, and
VOL. 2. No. 43.
MM

266
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Phocians joined in the league: also the Eneans, Clyzeans, and De-
lopians. To these joined likewise the Athamanes, Leucadians, and
Molossians, under the command of Aryptæus: but this man played
the impostor in the confederacy, and afterwards treacherously aided
the Macedonians.
A small part, likewise, of the Illyrians and Thracians, (out of hatred
to the Macedonians) came into the league, together with the Carys-
tines out of Eubea; and at length out of Peloponnesus the Argives,
Sicyonians, Elians, Messenians, and those that inhabited Acta*: all
these before-named confederated with the Grecians.
The people of Athens also sent auxiliaries to Leosthenes, out of
the cities, five thousand foot and five hundred horse, and two thousand
mercenaries; who were opposed by the Baotians in their march
through Boeotia, for the reasons following:
Alexander, when he razed Thebes, granted the territories of the
city to the neighbouring Baotians, who divided the lands of those
miserable people amongst themselves by lot, and thereby gained large
possessions; who, understanding that the Athenians (if they pre-
vailed) designed to restore the country and lands to the Thebans,
sided with the Macedonians; and, while the Boeotians were en-
camped at Platæa, Leosthenes came with part of his forces into Bæo-
tia, and, drawing up the Athenians in battalia, fell upon the inhabi-
tants, routed them, and set up a trophy, and then returned to Pyllene.
Here (after blocking up all the passages) he encamped for some time,
expecting the Macedonian army.
But Antipater, who was left viceroy of Europe by Alexander, as
soon as he heard of his death at Babylon, and of the divisions of the
provinces, sent to Craterus in Cilicia, to come to him with all the
forces he had for his assistance: for he, being sent away some time
before into Cilicia, had ready thirty thousand Macedonians, who were
dismissed from the service in Asia, with which he was returning into
Macedonia. He likewise solicited Philotas (who had the province of
Phrygia near the Hellespont under his command) to assist him, and
promised to him one of his daughters in marriage. For, as soon as he
heard of the insurrection of the Grecians against him, he left Sippas,
with a considerable body of men, general in Macedonia, with orders
to raise many more; and he himself marched out of Macedonia into
Thessaly with thirteen thousand foot, and six hundred horse: (for at
that time there was great scarcity of soldiers in Macedonia, by reason
of the recruits sent into Asia); with these forces sailed along the
whole fleet near at hand, which Alexander had sent into Macedonia
with a vast treasure out of the king's treasuries.
The sea-coasts,
Chap. I.
267
DIODORUS SICULUS.
The navy consisted of a hundred and ten gallies of three tiers of
cars. The Thessalians, indeed, at the beginning joining with Anti-
pater, had sent to him many capital horses; but afterwards, being
brought over by the Athenians into the contrary interest, they went
off with their horse to Leosthenes, and joined the Athenians for the
recovery of the liberties of Greece.
The Athenians therefore growing very strong, by many thus flock-
ing in to them, the Grecians overpowered the Macedonians, and
overcame them in a battle. Antipater being routed, not daring to
abide in the field, nor judging it safe to return into Macedonia, fled
to Lamia, where he drew his army into the city, 'repaired the walls,
furnished himself with arms offensive and defensive, and with corn
and other provisions; and there waited for further supplies and re-
inforcements out of Asia.
Leosthenes with all his forces coming up close to Lamia, fortified
bis camp with a deep trench and rampart. And first, he drew up
his army in face of the city, to provoke the Macedonians to fight;
but they not daring to engage, he daily assaulted the walls with fresh
men relieving one another. But the Macedonians made a stout de-
fence, and many of the Grecians, through their rashness and impru-
dence, were cut off. For, having a strong body of men in the city,
and well furnished with all sorts of weapons, and the walls with great
expense being made strong and well built, the besieged easily beat
off the enemy
Leosthenes therefore perceiving he could not gain the town by
force of arms, blocked it up, to hinder all supplies of provisions,
supposing the besieged would be presently subdued by famine and
want of bread. To this end he raised a wall, and drew a deep trench
round about it, and so penned them up. Afterwards the Ætolians,
being called away upon the occasion of some public concerns, got
leave of Leosthenes to return home, and so they all marched back to
Ætolia,
But while Antipater with his army was in these desperate straits,
and the city nearly lost for want of provisions, fortune on a sudden
turned the scale to the advantage of the Macedonians: for Antipater
made a sally upon them that were busied in opening the trenches,
where Leosthenes coming in to their relief, received a blow upon
the head with a stone, which felled him to the ground, and so was
carried off half dead into the camp, and died the third day after: he
was honourably buried, on account of the noble services he had pere
formed in the war. The Athepians commanded Hyperides to set
forth his praise in a funeral oration, who was esteemed the chiefest
of the orators at that time, both for his eloquence, and his particular
268
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
hatred of the Macedonians: for Demosthenes, the most famous ora-
tor, was then fled, being condemned as if he had received bribes
from Harpalus. Antiphilus, a prudent and valiant commander, was
created general in the room of Leosthenes. And this was the state
of Europe at that time.
CHAP. II.
Ptolemy gains Egypt. Leagues with Antipater. Lysimachus
enters Thrace. Leonatus comes to relieve Antipater, and is
routed. The Grecians beaten at sea. Perdiccas conquers Ari-
arathes, prince of Cappadocia; crucifies him; delivers the pro-
vince to Eumenes. The Grecians quite routed by Craterus and
Antipater. The Athenians at length submit after all the rest
but the Ætolians. The end of the Lamian war. The war in
Cyrene by Thimbron. Ophelas routs Thimbron. Cyrene gain-
ed by Ptolemy. Larissa sacked. The destruction of the Isau-
rians by themselves. Perdiccas affects the kingdom of Mace-
don; is opposed by Antigonus. The Ætolians blocked up by
Craterus and Antipater. Antigonus discovers Perdiccas's de-
sign. Peace made with the Ætolians. Perdiccas marches a-
gainst Ptolemy, into Egypt.
IN Asia, Ptolemy, one of those that had a share in the division of
the provinces, without any difficulty possessed himself of Egypt,
and carried himself with great mildness and winning behaviour to-
wards the people; and having a treasure of eight thousand talents,
raised an army of mercenaries: and many out of love flocked to him
upon the account of the goodness of his disposition.
He entered into a league with Atipater, when he was assured that
Perdiccas designed to dispossess him of Egypt.
At that time Lysimachus broke into some parts of Thrace, and
found Seuthes the king encamped with twenty thousand foot, and
eight thousand horse. But Lysimachus, though he had not above
four thousand foot, and only two thousand horse, was not affrighted
with the multitude of the enemy. And though he was so much in-
ferior in number, yet his valour was such, that he entered into.a hot
and sharp engagement; and after the loss of a great number of his
>
Chap. II.
269
DIODORUS SICULUS.
men, but many more of the enemy, he returned to his
camp
almost
victorious. Upon which both armies drew off the field, and each
made greater preparations, in order to decide the controversy by the
sword.
As for Leonatus, he promised speedy aid to Antipater and the Ma-
cedonians, being solicited by Hecatæus, who was sent to him for
that purpose. Landing therefore in Europe, as soon as he came into
Macedonia, he raised a great number of soldiers there; and having
got together an army of above twenty thousand foot, and about two
thousand five hundred horse, he marched through Thessaly against
the enemy.
Hereupon the Grecians drew off from the siege of Lamia, burned
their tents, and sent away all their sick men and heavy baggage to
Melitea; and with the rest of the army (ready and prepared for bat-
tle) marched straight away, and met Leonatus's forces before Anti :
pater had joined him, and their two armies had come up together.
The Grecians in the whole amounted to two-and-twenty thousand
foot, (for the Ætolians were returned home some time before, and
many others of the Grecians were gone into their own country);
and as to their horse, which were somewhat about three thousand
five hundred, they fought together in one body; amongst whom
were two thousand Thessalians, brave and valiant men, on whose
exertions they most relied for obtaining the victory. The horse on
both sides fought stoutly a long time, when the Thessalians, by their
extraordinary valour at length prevailing, Leonatus (although he
fought with great courage and resolution) was driven and penned up
within a morass, and, oppressed with his arms, after he had received
many wounds, was there slain, and by his own men carried off dead
to the carriages. The Greeks having now gained so famous a vic-
tory, (in which Menon the Thessalian commanded the horse), the
Macedonian phalanx, in order to avoid the horse, withdrew from the
plain and open field, and betook themselves to the steep and rocky
hills, and, by the strength of these places, were there able to defend
themselves.
However, the Thessalian horse attempted to break in upon them,
but, through the disadvantage of the places, were not able to do any
thing. The Grecians therefore being masters of the field, set up a
trophy, and left off all further pursuit. The next day, as soon as
Antipater came up with his troops, he joined himself to the broken
army, and so all the Macedonians making one camp, he took on him
the management of the whole.
But perceiving that the Thessalians were too strong for him in
horse, he judged it most advisable to be quiet for the present, not
270
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
a
daring to attempt to force his way by the sword. And therefore be
marched off, over hills and other craggy places, not easy to be pur-
sued. Antiphilus the Athenian general, who gained this victory
over the Macedonians, continued with his army in Thessaly, obsery-
ing the motions of the enemy. And this was the happy success at
that time of the Grecians.
But because the Macedonians were masters at sea, the Athenians
built so many ships more as to make up their fleet a hundred and se-
venty sail : but the Macedonian fleet consisted of two hundred and
forty, under the command of Clitus their admiral, who engaged in
two sea fights at the Echinades islands with Eetion the Athenian
admiral, in both of which he beat him, sinking many of the enemy's
ships.
About this time Perdiccas, having with him king Philip and the
king's army, undertook an expedition against Ariarathes, prince of
Cappadocia, who, though he submitted not to the empire of the Ma-
cedonians, yet Alexander being busied in his wars with Darius, pas-
sed him by, so that he enjoyed the principality of Cappadocia a long
time without any disturbance; and in the mean time he laid up a
vast sum of money out of the public revenues, and raised an army
of foreigners and from among his own people: and claiming the
kingdom as his own just right, he prepared to try it out with Per-
diccas, having an army of thirty thousand foot, and fifteen thousand
horse. At length it came to a battle, in which Perdiccas was vic-
tor, who killed four thousand upon the spot, and took six thousand
prisoners, amongst whom was Ariarathes himself, whom, together
with all his kindred he first scourged, and then crucified. He then
pardoned all the rest; and after he had settled affairs in Cappadocia,
he delivered up the province into the hands of Eumenes of Cardia,
to be governed by him as his share, according to the allotment in
the first agreement.
About the same time, Craterus arrived in Macedonia out of Cili-
cia, in order to assist Antipater, and to repair the losses of the Ma-
cedonians. He brought along with him six thousand foot which
Alexander had taken over with him at first into Asia, and four thou .
sand of those he had inlisted in the course of his march, besides a
thousand Persian darters and slingers, and fifteen hundred horse..
As soon as he came into Thessaly, he joined his forces to Antipater's
at the river Peneus, yeilding the chief command of the army to him,
The whole army, together with those that came with Leonatus, a-
mounted to about forty thousand foot, three thousand darters and
slingers, and five thousand horse. The Grecians at that time en-
camped over against them, being much inferior in number to the
Ckap. 11.
271
DIODORUS SICULUS.
enemy: for many, by reason of the late victory, slighted the Mace-
donians, and were returned to their several countries, to look after
their own private affairs. For which cause, there were many left in
the camp tliat observed no due order or discipline. There were in
the whole five-and-twenty thousand foot, and three thousand five
hundred horse, in whom they placed great confidence of victory, by
reason of the valour of the men, and the plain champaign country
that lay before them. At length Antipater drew out his forces every
day into the field, to provoke the Grecians to fight; who after they
had waited some considerable time for the return of their soldiers
out of the cities, through the urgency of their present circumstances,
were forced to venture an engagement.
Drawing up in battalia, therefore, and designing to decide the
matter by the horse, they placed them in the van before the foot,
whereupon the horse on both sides presently fell to it; and while
they were thus hotly engaged, and the Thessalian horse had the
better of the day, Antipater broke in with his battalion upon the foot,
and made a great slaughter among them; so that the Grecians not
being able to stand the shock of the enemy, who bore them down
with their multitudes pouring in upon them, they retreated in great
haste, but in good order, to the fastnesses and difficult passes near
at hand. And so having gained the higher ground, by that advan-
tage they easily repulsed the Macedonians. In the mean time the
Grecian horse, though they had the better, yet perceiving that their
foot was gone, forthwith made after them: and by this means the
horse (leaving off the fight) becoming so broken and dispersed, that
the Macedonians got the day. There were slain of the Grecians in
this battle upwards of five hundred, and of the Macedonians about a
hundred and thirty.
The next day Memnon and Antiphilus called a council of war,
where it was debated, whether they should expect aid from the cities,
and wait to see if soldiers sufficient could be raised, and so try it out
to the last; or, yielding to the times, and bearing their present dis-
asters, they should send agents to treat for terms of peace. At length
they concluded to send heralds to treat accordingly; who executing
their orders, Antipater answered them_That he expected every cia
ty should treat severally by its own ambassadors; and that he would
not upon any terms make a general peace. But the Grecians de-
clined this proposal, and therefore Antipater and Craterus besieged
the cities of Thessaly, and took them by storm, the Grecians not be-
ing able to relieve them. This so terrified all the rest, that they
transaeted the affairs of their several cities by their own ambassa-
dors; towards whom he carried himself with all demonstrations of
872
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
courtesy and gaining behaviour, and concluded peace with every one
of them. Every city therefore being desirous to provide for its own
safety, all of them by that means obtained peace.
But the Ætolians and Athenians, the implacable enemies of the
Macedonians, though they were thus deserted by their confederates,
consulted with their commanders about carrying on the war. But
Antipater having by this artifice thus broken the confederacy, led his
whole army against the Athenians; upon which the people, being
deserted by their confederates, were greatly terrified, and knew not
which way to turn themselves; and all having their eyes upon Der
mades, cried out_That he should be sent ambassador to Antipater,
to treat for peace in their behalf. But he refused to come to the se,
nate; for he had been thrice condemned for violating the laws, and
for that reason become infamous, and disabled by the law to sit in
council. But, being restored by the people to his former credit and
reputation, he forthwith, together with Phocion and others joined
with him in the commission, undertook the embassy. When Ati-
pater had heard what they had to say, he told them.
That he would
make peace with the Athenians upon no other terms but upon their
giving up all they had into his hands: for the same ayswer the
Athenians gave to Antipater when he sent ambassadors to them at
the time he was shut up in Lamia. Hereupon the people not being
able to resist, were brought to the necessity of giving up all the
power and government of the city into the hands of Antipater; who
with great humanity and generosity granted their city, their estates,
and all other things to them back again. But he dissolved the go-
vernment into a democracy, and ordered that the value of every per-
son's estate should be the rule for chusing the magistrates; viz.
that those who were worth above two thousand drachmas, might be
capable of being magistrates, and of giving votes for their election.
As for those who were not of such estates, he removed them as tur-
bulent and factious, not suffering them to have any thing to do with
public business; and granted new seats and estates in Thessaly to
any that would remove thither. Upon which, above two-and-twenty
thousand of that description of citizens were transplanted from their
own country. The government of the city, and country belong to it,
was given to the rest, who had estates to the value of what was before
limited and appointed; of whom there were about nine thousand.
And these governed the state for the future according to the laws of
Solon. And all their estates were left to them entire and untouched.
But they were forced to receive a garrison under Menyllus the go-
vernor to keep them in awe, and prevent new stirs and disturban-
ces. As for the matter of Samos, it was referred to the decisson of
Chap. II.
273
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the kings*. : And thus the Athenians (beyond their expectation) were
kindly used, and were at peace. And for the future, (governing the
commonwealth without tumults and seditions, and quietly following
their husbandry), they grew very rich in a short time.
Antipater, being returned into Macedonia, honourably and bounti-
fully rewarded Craterus according to his desert, and gave him Phila,
his eldest daughter, in marriage; and then Craterus returned into
Asia. Antipater carried himself with the same moderation and win.
ning behaviour towards all the cities of Greece, well ordering and
reforming their governments, whereby he gained praise and renown
in every place.
As for Perdiccas, he restored the city and territory of Samos to
the Samians, and caused all those that had been exiles above three-
and-forty years, to return into their country. Having now gone
through the occurrences in the Lamian war, we shall pass to the war
in Cyrene, lest we should straggle too far into times much distant
from the continued course and connection of the history. But, to
make things more clear and evident, we must have recourse to matters
done a little before.
After Harpalus had left Asia, and at length arrived with his mer-
cenaries in Crete, as is related in the preceding book, Thimbron,
one of his special friends, (as he thought him to be), having assassi-
nated Harpalus, possessed himself both of the money and soldiers,
to the number of seven thousand men. He got likewise the navy
into his hands, and, putting the soldiers on board, sailed to the coun-
try of the Cyrenians; where, joining with the Cyrenian exiles, he
made use of their conduct for the prosecuting of his designs, because
they were well acquainted with the ways and passes in the country.
Upon the approach of the Cyrenians, Thimbron fought them, and
routed them, killing many upon the spot, and taking many prisoners.
Then he possessed himself of the port, and forced the conquered
Cyrenians (now in a great fright) into a composition, and to buy
their peace at the price of five thousand talents of silver; and that
they should deliver to him one half of all their chariots ready and
fitted for any warlike expedition. He sent likewise ambassadors
to other cities, soliciting them to join with him, as if he purposed to
conquer all the lower Africa. He seized likewise upon all the mer-
chants' goods in the haven, and gave them for plunder to his soldiers,
the more to encourage them to stick to him in the war.
· But, in the height of his prosperity, a sudden blast of fortune
brought him very low, upon the following occasion. Mnasielus,
one of his captains, a Cretan born, and an expert commander, be-
* Aridærs and Alexander.
Vol. 2. No, 43,
NY
274
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
gan to quarrel with him about the division of the spoil; and, being
of a bold and turbulent spirit, he thereupon deserted, and went over
to the Cyrenians; where, making great complaints of Thimbron's
cruelty and breach of faith, he persuaded them to dissolve the league,
and assert their liberty. Thereupon they stopped their hands, and
would pay no more of the talents of silver agreed upon, having only
paid sixty.
Thimbron hereupon accused them of treachery and breach of
faith, and seized upon eight hundred of the Cyrenians that were in
the port, and laid close siege to Cyrene; but, not being able to pre-
vail, he drew off, and returned to the port. The Barceans and Hes-
perians sided with Thimbron: whereupon the Cyrenians drew part
of their forces out of the city, and with them wasted and spoiled the
neighbouring territories; to whose assistance Thimbron (whose aid
was desired) marched out with what soldiers he had then ready at
hand. The Cretan, taking advantage of that opportunity, when he
conceived few were left in the port, advised them that were left in
Cyrene to attack the port, who readily complied, and he himself was
the principal acter in the attempt, which was easily accomplished, by
reason of Thimbron's absence; so that, whatever merchandize was
left in the port he restored to the merchants, and fortified the haven
with all the care and diligence imaginable.
This first disaster greatly discouraged Thimbron, having both lost
so convenient a post, and likewise his carriages. But afterwards
plucking up his spirits, and taking Tarichæum by assault, his hopes
revived. However, not long after, he again sustained a mighty loss :
for the soldiers belonging to the fleet, by being excluded the harbour,
were in great want of provisions, and therefore every day roved up
and down the fields to get what they could for the supply of their
necessities. Thereupon the Africans, lying in ambush, fell upon
them as they were roving all over the country, and killed multitudes
of them, and took many prisoners: the rest escaped to their ships,
and sailed off towards the confederate cities; but they were over-
taken with so violent a storm, that many of their ships were swal-
lowed up by the sea; and of the rest, some were driven to Cyprus,
and others to the coasts of Egypt. Notwithstanding which dis-
tresses, Thimbron went on still with the war: for he sent some of
his friends into Peloponnesus, to inlist soldiers of those strangers that
were then still at Tenarus; for there were then many disbanded,
wandering up and down, seeking to be inlisted by any that would em-
ploy them, to the number of two thousand five hundred, and upwards.
Those that were sent took these into pay, and set sail with them
straight towards Cyrene; before whose arrival the Cyrenians, encou-
>
Chap. If.
275
DIODORUS SICULUS.
raged by their successes, had fought with Thimbron, and had cut off
great numbers of his men: by reason of which losses Thimbron gave
up all for lost as to the war against Cyrene; but the unexpected ar-
rival of the soldiers from Tenarus so strengthened his army, that he
took fresh courage, and resumed his former hopes of victory.
The Cyrenians, perceiving that the war was renewed, craved sup-
plies from the neighbouring Africans and Carthaginians; and, hav-
ing raised an army composed of their own citizens and others, to the
number of thirty thousand men, they resolved to lay all at stake, and
try it out in a battle. A very sharp engagement therefore was fought,
in which Thimbron was victor, with the slaughter of a multitude of
his enemies; which cheered up his spirits to that degree, as if he
should presently be master of all the neighbouring cities. The Cy-
renians after this fight, having lost all their commanders, joined
Mnasiclus the Cretan with some others in the chief command of the
army. But Thimbron, lifted up with his victory, besieged the haven
of Cyrene, and assaulted the city every day. The siege continuing
long, the Cyrenians, for want of bread, fell out one with another;
and the rabble (being the greatest in number) thrust forth the rich
out of the city; some of whom fled to Thimbron, others into Egypt.
Those in Egypt addressed themselves to Ptolemy for assistance, to
help them in their return, and prevailed so far as that they went
back with great forces both for sea and land, under the command of
Ophelas, their governor.
When their return was noised abroad,
those exiles who were with Thimbron contrived to steal away in the
night, and joined with those that were arrived; but, being detected,
they were all killed.
The ringleaders of the sedition in Cyrene, being terrified at the
return of the exiles, made peace with Thimbron, and resolved to join
with him against Ophelas. But Ophelas routed Thimbron, and took
him prisoner, and recovered all the towns, and delivered the cities,
with their territories, into the hands of Ptolemy. And thus the Cy-
renians and the neighbouring cities lost their former liberty, and be-
came subject to Ptolemy.
Perdiccas and king Philip having overcome Ariarathes, delivered
the province to Eumenes, and so departed out of Cappadocia. When
they came into Pisidia, they determined to raze those two cities,
one of the Larissians, the other of the Isaurians: for in the life-time
of Alexander they had killed Balacrus, the son of Nicanor, who was
appointed to be their general, and governor of the province. Larissa
therefore they took upon the first assault, and put all that were able
to bear arms to the sword, and sold all the rest for slaves, and laid
the city even with the ground. As for the city of the Isaurians,
276
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
it was large and well fortified, and manned with resolute and stout
men; and therefore, after they had assaulted it two days together,
and had lost a great number of men, they were forced to draw off:
for the inhabitants, being plentifully furnished with weapons, and all
other things necessary for the enduring of a siege, were resolute to
undergo all hazards, and readily sold their lives for the defence of
their liberty. But upon the third day, having lost many of their
citizens, insomuch that they were not able sufficiently to man the
walls, they put in execution a most heroic piece of resolution, wor-
thy for ever to be remembered. For, perceiving that they were des-
tined to inevitable destruction, and had not force sufficient for their
defence, they judged it not advisable to deliver up the city, and all
that they had, to the will of the enemy, because their certain ruin,
with the most barbarous usage, was obvious before their eyes.
Therefore they all unanimously resolved to die honourably together:
to that end, in the night they shut up their wives, children, and pa-
rents in their houses, and set them on fire, making choice by that
means to perish and be buried together. When the flame mounted
up into the air, the Isaurians threw all their wealth, and every thing
valuable, or that might be of any advantage to the enemy, into the fire.
The besiegers were struck with admiration at the sight, and ran here
and there, seeking where to break into the city; but those that re-
mained upon the walls for their defence threw many of the Macedo-
nians down headlong from the battlements. At which Perdiecas
was much surprised, and inquired what was the reason that, having
set all their houses and every thing besides on fire, they were so
diligent and careful to defend the walls. At length, wheu Perdiccas
with his Macedonians were drawn off from the city, the rest of the
Isaurians cast themselves headlong into the fire, and so every one's
house became a common sepulchre for himself and all his relations.
Perdiccas the next day gave the ransacking of the city to the sol-
diers, who (when the fire was extinguished) found much silver and
gold in the rubbish, the city having been rich and prosperous a long
time together.
After this destruction, Perdiccas married two wives, Nicæa the
daughter of Antipater, to whom he was contracted; and Cleopatra,
Alexander's half sister, the daughter of Philip and Amyntas. Per-
diccas indeed had entered into league with Antipater before he was
established in his government, and upon that account the marriage
was consummated. But after he had gained the king's forces, and
became possessed of the superintendency and administration of the
affairs of the kingdom, he changed his mind: for affecting the king-
dom, his design was to marry Cleopatra, concluding that for her sake,
Chap. II.
277
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and by her authority, the sovereign power would be yielded up to
to him by the Macedonians. But because he had no mind as yet to
discover his intentions, and to comply with the present circumstan-
ces of affairs, he married Nicæa, lest Antipater should oppose him
in his projects. But Antigonus smelling out what he was contriv-
ing, and being one that had a great kindness for Antipater, and the
most active man of all the commanders, Perdiccas resolved to des-
patch him, and take him out of the way.
Loading him therefore with false accusations and unjust asper-
sious, his design appeared plainly to take away his life. But Anti-
gonus being a crafty man, and of a bold spirit, pretended as if he
would defend himself against those things that were laid to his charge;
but in the interim he secretly prepared for his flight, and in the
night, with his servants and his son Demetrius, went on board some
ships that belonged to Athens, and set sail for Europe, on purpose to
confederate with Antipater. About that time Antipater and Crate-
rus had taken the field against the Ætolians with thirty thousand foot,
and two thousand five hundred horse: for they only remained un-
cunquered of those that were engaged in the Lamian war. But the
Ætolians, though they were pressed upon by such mighty forces, yet
were not at all discouraged; but having got together ten thousand
brave and sprightly men, betook themselves to the difficult passes in
the mountains, where they had before disposed and lodged much of
their wealth, and all their wives, children, and old people. And
though they had quitted the cities which were not tenable, yet they
placed strong garisons in those that were fortified; and in this state
undauntedly waited the approach of the enemy.
Antipater and Craterus therefore having entered Ætolia, when
they saw all the cities that were weak and untenable forsaken by
their inhabitants, made towards those that were posted in the fast-
nesses of the mountains. At the first assault they made upon these
dreadful and inaccessible precipices, they lost multitudes of their
men; for the valour of the Ætolians being supported and confirmed
by the strength of the places, easily repulsed the enemy, who ran
themselves upon difficulties that were insuperable. But afterwards,
when Craterus's soldiers had secured themselves during the winter,
by huts and warm tents, the Ætolians were obliged to endure the in-'
clemency of the season in places covered over with snow, where
they remained in great want of provisions; so that they were redu-
ced to a most desperate condition. For they were brought to that
dilemma, that they must of necessity either leave the mountains and
fight with an army far superior in number to themselves, and against
commanders who were every where renowned for their good con-
278
Book XVIII,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
duct, or, if they remained longer, certainly to perish with hunger and
cold.
And now all hopes of deliverance being despaired of, suddenly and
unexpectedly appeared a release at hand from all their miseries, as if
some god in an especial manner had had compassion of such brave
and noble souls: for Antigonus, who had Aled out of Asia, and was
now come into the camp, informed them of what Perdiccas was
hatching and contriving; and that having married Cleopatra, he
was ready, as king, to come over with his army into Macedonia, to
wrest the kingdom out of their hands. At which strange and unex-
pected news, Antipater and Craterus, and all those with them, were
so affrighted, that they called a council of war, where, upon consul-
tation, it was resolved, that matters should be compounded and end-
ed with the Ætolians as well as they could; and that forces should
be forthwith transported into Asia; and that Craterus should be ge-
neral in Asia, and Antipater have the chief command in Europe;
that ambassadors should likewise be despatched to Ptolemy, who was
their friend and an enemy to Perdiccas, and designed to be cut off as
well as they, to move him to join with them as a confederate. Here-
upon they forthwith struck up a peace with the Ætolians, intending
notwithstanding in due time afterwards, to root them up and all
their families, and to send them into some remote and desert corner
of the world far from Asia. The pacification according to the terms
before agreed upon, being put into writing and signed, they prepared
themselves for the expedition.
Perdiccas, on the other side, calling together his friends and ge-
neral officers, consulted with them whether he should transport his
army into Macedonia, ur march first against Ptolemy. All agreeing
that Ptolemy was first to be conquered, lest he should obstruct his
expedition into Macedonia, he sent Eumenes on before with a con-
siderable army, to secure the passes at the Hellespont, to prevent all
passage that way: and he himself marched out of Pisidia with the
whole of his forces towards Egypt. And these were the things done
this year.
Chap. III.
279
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. III.
Description of Alexander's funeral chariot. Ptolemy honoured in
Egypt. Perdiccas prepares for going into Egypt against Pto-
lemy. Eumenes beats Neoptolemus, who deserted. The battle
between Eumenes and Craterus, who was killed with Neoptole-
MUS, Combat between Neoptolemus and Eumenes. Perdiccas
comes into Egypt; assaults the fort called the Camel's Wall;
his miserable loss in the river Nile; is killed. Ptolemy makes
Aridæus and Python protectors of the kings. Eumenes condem-
ned to die The Ætolians invade Thessaly. Polyperchon routs
the Ætolians. The provinces again divided by Aridæus. An-
tigonus routs Eumenes, who flies to Nora. Antigonus besieges
Nora. Eumenes's invention to exercise the horse. Ptolemy
gains Syria and Phænicia by Nicanor.
WHEN Philocles was chief magistrate at Athens, and Caius Sulpi-
tius and Quintus Aulius were created Roman consuls, Aridæus, to
whom was committed the care of conveying Alexander's body to his
sepulchre, having now the chariot ready upon which it was to be
carried, prepared himself for the journey. But, forasmuch as the
whole business and concern was managed as became the majesty of
Alexander, and upon that account did not only exceed all others in
point of expense, state, and pomp, (for the charges amounted to ma-
ny talents), but also in respect of curiosity and workmanship, we
think it fit to recommend something to posterity in writing concern-
ing it. And first, a coffin of beaten gold was provided, so wrought
by the hammer, as to answer to the proportion of the body; it was
half filled with aromatic spices, which served as well to delight the
sense, as to prevent the body from putrefaction. Over the coffin
was a cover of gold, so exactly fitted, as to answer the higher part
every way. Over this was thrown a curious purple coat embroidered
with gold, pear to which were placed the arms of the deceased, that
the whole might represent the acts of his life. Then was provided
the chariot, in which the body was to be conveyed; upon the top of
which was raised a triumqhant arch of gold, set thick and studded
a
over with precious stones, eight cubits in breadth, and twelve in
length. Under this roof was placed a throne of gold, joined to the
whole work, four square, on which were carved the heads of Goat-
280
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
harts*; and to these were fastened golden rings of two hands-
breadth in diameter; at which hung, for shew and pomp, little co-
ronets of various colours, which, like so many flowers, afforded a
pleasant prospect to the eye. Upon the top of the arch, was a fringe
of network, to which were hung large bells, to the intent that the
sound of them might be heard at a great distance. On both sides
the arch, at the corners, stood an image of Victory in gold, bearing
a trophy. A peristylium f of gold supported the archwork, the cha-
piters of whose pillars were of lonian workmanship. Within the
peristylium, by a network of gold of a finger's thickness in the work-
a
manship, hung four tables I, one by another equal to the dimensions
of the wall, whereupon were pourtrayed all sorts of living creatures.
The first table represented a chariot curiously wrought, wherein
Alexander sat with a royal sceptre in his hand. About the king
stood his life-guards complete in their arms; the Macedonians on
one side, and the Persians, who bore battle-axes, on the other; and
before them stood the armour-bearers. In the second, elephants
adorned in their warlike habiliments followed them of the guard, on
which sat Indians before, and Macedonians behind, armed according
to the manner of their respective countries. In the third might be
seen squadrons of horse drown up in regular battalia. In the fourth
appeared a fleet ordered in a line of battle. At the entrance of the
arch stood lions of gold, with their faces towards the entrance.
From the middle of every pillar an acanthus & of gold sprouted up,
in branches spiring in slender threads to the very chapiters. Over
the arch, about the middle of the roof on the outside, was spread a
purple carpet in the open air, on which was placed a vast golden
crown, in the form of an olive coronet|l, which, by the reflection of
the sun-beams, darted such an amazing splendor and brightness,
that at a distance it appeared as a flash of lightning. Under the
seats or bottom of the whole work, ran two axletrees, about which
moved four Persian wheels, whose spokes and naves were overlaid
with gold, but the fellows were shod with iron. The ends and out-
parts of the axles were of gold, representing the heads of lions, each
holding a dart in his mouth. In every centre of the arch, about the
midway in the length, was artificially fixed a pole, upon which
the whole might turn, as on a hinge; by the help whereof the arch
might, in rough places, where it was apt to be shaken, be preserved
from being overturned. There were four draft-trees, to every one
* Tragelaphi, Goat-harts, bred near the river Phasis in Colchis.Plin. 1. 8, c. 33.
+ In furm resembling a piaza,
A sort of writing tables, whether of brass, stone, or wood.
$ A tree so called. || Olive coronets, usually worn by conquerors.
Chap. III.
281
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
of which were fixed four courses of yokes, and to every course were
bound four mules, so that the mules were sixty-four in number, the
most choice for strength and bigness that could be got. Every mule
was adorned with a crown of gold, and bells of gold on either side of
their heads; and on their necks were fitted rich collars, set and
beautified with precious stones.
And in this manner was the chariot set forth, the sight of which
was more stately and pompous than the report: so that the fame
of it brought together multitudes of spectators: for the people out of
every city wherever it was coming, met it, and ran back again be-
fore it, never satisfied with the delight they took in vewing and gaz-
ing. And, suitable to so stately a shew, a vast quantity of work-
men and pioneers, who levelled and smoothed the ways for its pas-
sage, attended.
And thus Aridæus, who had spent two years in preparations,
brought the king's body from Bobylon to Egypt. Ptolemy, in ho-
nour of the king, met the corpse with his army as far as Syria, where
he received it, and accompanied it with great care and observance:
for he had not resolved as yet to accompany it to the temple of Am-
mon, but to keep the body in the city* which Alexander himself had
built, the most famous almost of any city in the world. To this end
he built a temple in honour of Alexander, in greatness and stateli-
ness of structure becoming the glory and majesty of that king; and
in this repository he laid the body, and honoured the exequies of the
dead with sacrifices and magnificent shews, agreeable to the dignity
of a demigod. Upon which account he was deservedly honoured,
not only by men, but by the gods themselves: for by his bounty and
generosity he so gained upon men, that they flocked from all parts
to Alexandria, and cheerfully inlisted themselves into his service,
notwithstanding the king's army was then preparing for war against
him: and though he was in imminent danger, yet all readily ven-
tured their lives to preserve him. And the gods themselves, for his
virtue, and kind obliging temper towards all, rescued him out of all
his hazards and difficulties, which seemed insuperable: for Perdic-
cas, who before suspected the increase of his power, had resolved,
bringing the kingst along with him, upon an expedition into Egypt,
with the strength of his army. To that end he had delivered to Eu-
menes a considerable body of men, with a sufficient number of offi-
cers, with command to march to the Hellespont, to prevent the pas-
sage of Antipater and Craterus over into Asia. Amongst the com-
Alexandria.-See Curtius, 1. 10. c. ult.--The embalmed body was viewed by Au.
gustus in Alexandria, three hundred years afterwards.--Suct.
+ These kings were Aridæus and Alexander, the children of Alexander.
VOL. 2. No, 43.
00
282
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
manders the most illustrious were Alcetas his brother, and Neoptole-
mus: but these he ordered in all things to be observant to Eumenes,
because he was both a skilful and prudent general, and a constant
and faithful friend. Eumenes therefore, with the forces delivered
to him, came to the Hellespont, and completed his army with horse
(raised out of his own province) of which his troops were before only
deficient.
But after Antipater and Craterus had transported their army out
of Europe, Neoptolemus, out of envy to Eumenes, (having a consi-
derable body of Macedonians under his command), secretly sent
messengers to Antipater, and, colleaguing with him, contrived how
to entrap Eumenes: but his treachery being discovered, he was for-
ced to fight, and lost almost all his men in the battle, and was very
near being cut off himself. Eumenes being thus conqueror, after
this great slaughter, joined the remainder of those that were left to
his own army; and so by this victory not only increased his forces,
but strengthened himself with a great number of Macedonians that
were excellent soldiers. Neoptolemus fled off the field with three
hundred horse, and went over to Antipater. Whereupon there
was held a deep consultation between them, in reference to the
concerns of the war; in which it was determined to divide the army
into two bodies; one to march under Antipater into Cilicia to fight
Perdiccas, and the other with Craterus to fall upon Eumenes; and
when he was routed, then Craterus to return to Antipater; that so
the whole army being joined together in one body, and having Ptole-
my their confederate, they might be the better able to cope with the
king's army.
Eumenes having intelligence of the enemy's march, collected for-
ces together from all parts, especially horse; for, because he had not
foot able to cope with the Macedonian phalanx, he raised a great bo-
dy of horse, by whose assistance he hoped to be in a condition to
overcome the enemy.
And now at length the armies drew near to each other; whereupon
Craterus drew up his men together, in order, by a set speech to en-
courage them to fight; in which harangue he promised _That if
they were conquerors, they should have all the pillage of the field,
and all the bag and baggage as a prey to their own use. In all
things thus encouraged, he drew up his army in battalia: the right
wing he commanded himself, and the left he gave to Neoptolemus.
His army in the whole consisted of twenty thousand foot, most of
them Macedonians, inen famous for their valour, in whom he placed
the confidence of his victory; with these there marched along with
him above two thousand horse. Eumenes had likewise twenty thou-
Chap. III.
283
DIODORUS SICULUS.
sand foot of different nations, and five thousand horse, on whose va-
lour principally he had resolved to venture, and lay all at stake in
this battle,
The horse on both sides moving forward in two wings a great way
before the foot, Craterus with a body of choice men made a gallant
charge upon the enemy, but his horse stumbliug, he was thrown out
of the saddle to the ground, and not being known, was trampled un-
der foot by the confused throng, and so unfortunately lost his life;
upon whose fall the enemy was so encouraged, that, dispersing them-
selves over the field of battle, they made a terrible slaughter. The
right wing being thus distressed, and at length totally routed, was
forced to retreat to the foot. But in the left wing commanded by
Neoptolemus, opposed to Eumenes, there was a very sharp engage-
ment, the two generals singling out one another: for being known
to each other by their horses, and other special marks, they fought
hand to hand; and by combating thus singly, they put a remark
upon the victory: for after they and tried it out by their swords,
they presently began a singular and new sort of encounter, anger
and revenge mutually exciting them. For, letting their bridles fall
on their horses' necks, they catched hold of each other with their
left hands, and so grappling together, their horses violently pressing
forward, ran from under them, by which they both tumbled to the
ground. And though it was a difficult matter for either of them,
after so violent a fall, to rise again, and besides, being pressed
down by the weight of their armour, yet Eumenes rising first,
so desperately wounded Neoptolemus in the ham, that he lay ham-
strung, grovelling upon the ground; and by reason of the grievous-
ness of the wound, he was not able to raise himself upon his feet.
But the stoutuess and courage of his mind overcoming the weakness
of his body, he got upon his knees, and gave his adversary three
wounds on his arm and thigh: but none of them being mortal, (while
they were yet warm), Eumenes gave Neoptolemus a second blow on
the neck, which killed him outright.
In the mean time a great slaughter was made amongst the rest of
the horse on both sides; su that while some were killed and others
wounded, the fortune of the day was at first uncertaisi. But no
sooner was it noised abroad that Neoptolemus was slain, and both
wings broken, than the whole body of horse fled, and made off to
the phalanx, as to a strong wall of defence. But Eumenes, content
with keeping his ground, and the possession of the bodies of both
the generals, souuded a retreat to his soldiers. Then he set up a
trophy, and after he had buried the slain, he sent word to the phalanx,
and to those that were thus routed_That whoever would, should
284
Book XVII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
have liberty to take up arms with him, or to go wherever they pleas-
ed. The Macedonians accepted of these terms of peace, and, upon
oath of fidelity given, they had liberty to march off to the next towns
to supply themselves with provisons. But they dealt treacherously
with Eumenes; for, re-assembling their forces, and furnishing
themselves with provisions, in the night they stole away and went
to Antipater. Eumenes indeed did all he could to revenge this
breach of their oath, and to that end he forthwith endeavoured to
pursue the phalanx; but by reason of the strength of the enemy,
and his own indisposition through the wounds he had received, he
was not able to do any thing effectually, and therefore he judged it
better to refrain from any further pursuit.
Having therefore gained so glorious a victory, and cut off two
such eminent commanders, his name became very famous. Anti-
pater having received those that had escaped, after they had been re-
freshed, hastened away to Cilicia, and to afford assistance to Ptole-
my. But Perdiccas hearing of the victory * gained by Eumenes,
prosecuted his expedition into Egypt with much more assurance.
When he came near to the river Nile, he encamped not far from
Pelusium; and while he was cleansing an old sluice, the river over-
flowed to that degree, that it defeated all his design, and ruined his
works; and many of his friends deserted his camp, and went over to
Ptolemy: for he inclined to cruelty; and having removed the rest of
the captains from the chief commands, he made it his only business
to be sole monarch and absolute tyrant.
Ptolemy on the contrary was courteous and mild, and gave free
liberty to the rest of the captains to advise him in all his enter-
prises. Besides, he had put strong garrisons into all the convenient
places of Egypt, and had furnished them with all sorts of weapons,
and other things that were necessary. By which means he succeeded
in cvery thing for the most part that he undertook, while many that
loved the man cheerfully exposed themselves to undergo all hazards
for his sake. But Perdiccas, to repair his losses, called together the
commanders, and, having regained some by gifts, and others by
large promises, and all by smooth words, he was so far encouraged,
as to bear up against the hazards and difficulties that were coming
apace upon him. And, when he had ordered them all to be ready for
a march, about evening he moved from thence with his whole army.
Not acquainting any whither he would lead them, he marched all night
with a swift march, and at length encamped upon the banks of the
Nile, not far from a castle called the Camel's Wall.
• His arst victory over Neoptolemus, for Perdiccas was killed before the news of this
last arrived, as appears afterwards.
a
Chap. III.
285
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
When it was day he passed his army over, the elephants leading
the way, and next to them the targeteers, with those that carried the
scaling-ladders, and other things he had occasion to use in a siege:
his best horse at length brought up the rear, with whom he intended
to attack the Ptolemeans, if it happened that they appeared. In the
middle of their march Ptolemy's horse shewed themselves, making
forward in a swift career for the defence of the town; who, though
they hastened to enter the fort, and by sounding of trumpets and shouts
of men gave sufficient notice of their approach, yet Perdiccas was
not at all diverted from his purpose, but boldly led up his army close
to the fort; and forthwith the targeteers with their ladders mounted
the wall, and those that rode upon elephants threw down the fortifi-
cations, and demolished the bulwarks. Whereupon Ptolemy, with
those of his own guard about him, to encourage the rest of his offi-
cers and friends manfully to behave themselves, catched hold of a
sarissa, and mounted the hulwark; and so, being on the higher
ground, struck out the eyes of the foremost elephant, and wounded
the Indian that sat upon him; and, as for those that scaled the
walls, he hurled them down, dreadfully cut and wounded (together
with their arms) into the river. After his example Ptolemy's friends
valiantly exerted themselves, and, by killing the Indian that governed
the next elephant, the beast became unserviceable. The assault
continuing long, Perdiccas's soldiers assaulted the wall by turns,
striviog with all the vigour imaginable to gain the fort by storm.
On the other hand, Ptolemy, calling to his friends now to approve
their faithfulness and loyalty to him by their courage, fought like a
herond gave an example of valour to all the rest. In this sharp
dispute, many fell on both sides. 'The Ptolemeans had the advan-
tage in the height of the place, and the Perdiccans in the greatness
of their number, which far exceeded the other. At length, the whole
day being spent in the assault, Perdiccas raised the siege, and
marched back to his camp, and in the night decamped, and with a
quiet and silent march came into a part of the country over against
Memphis, where the Nile (dividing itself into two parts) makes an
island sufficient to receive and encamp the greatest army. Into this
place, therefore, he passed over part of his army, though the passage
was very difficult, through the depth of the river; for the water
reaching up to the chin, the soldiers could not stand upon their legs,
and were likewise encumbered with their arms. Perdiccas therefore,
discerning the strength and violence of the river, placed the elephants.
on the left, to break the force of the stream. The horse went on the
right, by whose help he took up those that were hurried down by
the current, and set them safe on the opposite shore. But there
286
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
happened in this passage that which was strange and unusual: for,
when the first had got over, those that followed were in very great
hazard; for the river rose on a sudden, without any apparent cause,
and swept away whole sholes of bodies at a time, which put all into
a consternation. The cause of this inundation could not be found
out, though it ways inquired into. Some imputed it to a dyke or
sluice in the higer grounds, whose banks might be broken down, and
so all its water ran into the Nile, by which means the ford was so
much the higher: others conceived it was great rains that fell in the
lands above which increased the waters of the river. But it was
neither of these. But the true cause why the passage at first was
without danger, was because the sand was then firm and unmoved;
but afterwards, when by the treading of the horses and elephants,
and the passage of the army, the sand was stirred and carried away
by the force of the river, the ford by this means was, as it were, dug
up, and made into holes, and so the passage was deeper in the middle
of the river. Perdiccas therefore, not being able to pass the rest of
his army over, was in a great strait, because those that had passed to
the other side were very unequal to the force of the enemy, and
those on this side of the river were not able to succour them. Here-
upon he commanded all those that were landed in the island to re-
turn. The army thus forced to repass the river, those that could
swim, and were strong-bodied men, with great difficulty recovered
the other side of the Nile; but most of them lost their arms. The
rest, who were not so skilful, some of them were drowned, and
others were carried down the stream, and fell into the hands of the
enemy. Very many for a long time tossed hither and thither, were
at length devoured by crocodiles. Above two thousand having pe-
rished in this manner, (among whom were some eminent command-
ers), the hearts of the soldiers were much turned against Perdiccas.
But Ptolemy caused all those bodies to be burned that were brought
dead down the river to him, and, having performed all funeral obse-
quies and observances due to the dead, he sent their ashes and bones
to their kindred and friends.
This far more enraged the spirits of the Macedonians against Per-
diccas, and knit their hearts in affection to Ptolemy. When the night
came on, the camp was full of cries and lamentations, that so many
men should miserably perish without a stroke, amongst whom there
were no fewer than a thousand who were swallowed by the monstrous
crocodiles,
Hereupon many of the commanders railed against Perdiccas; and
the whole phalanx of foot, being totally disaffected, discovered their
hatred by their murmurings and threats: and a hundred of the chief
a
Chap. III.
287
DIODORUS SICULUS.
commanders deserted him, the chiefest of whom was Python, who had
conquered the rebellious Greeks, and was not inferior in valour and
reputation to any of Alexander's commanders. Afterwards some of
the horse entered into a conspiracy, and made to his tent, and in a
body fell upon him, and killed him.
The next day, when the soldiers were in consultation, Ptolemy
came to them, and saluted the Macedonians, and made an apology
for what he had done. And, seeing that they were in want of pro-
visions, he furnished the army with abundance of bread, and supplied
the camp with all other things that were necessary. But, though he
was upon this account in great grace and favour with the soldiers,
and so able easily to gain the protectorship of the kings, yet he de-
manded it not, but bestowed the chief command upon Python and
Aridæus, to whom in gratitude he was much obliged. For when
the Macedonians appointed a consultation concerning that honour-
able trust and high command, by the advice of Ptolemy they all
unanimously created Python, and Aridæus who conveyed the king's
body, to be protectors of the kings, investing them with sovereign
authority. And in this manner Perdiccas, after he had enjoyed
the sovereign command for the space of three years, lost both it
and his life together. After his death, news was brought, that Eu-
menes had gained the day in Cappadocia, and that Craterus and
Neoptolemus were both slain: which news, if it had arrived the day
before Perdiccas's death, that prosperous success would have been
a protection to his person, so as that none durst have lifted up their
hands against him.
But the Macedonians now hearing how Eumenes had succeeded,
condemned him and all his adherents, to the number of fifty lords,
amongst whom was Alcetas the brother of Perdiccas, to die. And
at that very time they put to death those who were Perdiccas's
chiefest friends, then in their hands, with his sister Atalanta, the
wife of Attalus the admiral of the fleet. For at, and after the death
of Perdiccas, Attalus lay with the fleet before Pelusium; and when
the news was brought him of the death of Perdiccas, and his wife,
he departed from thence and went to Tyre; where Archelaus, a
Macedonian governor of the city kindly received him, and delivered
up to him the city, and faithfully restored to him the money intrust-
ed in his hands by Perdiccas, to the amount of eight hundred ta-
lents. And by this means Attalus, taking up his residence at Tyre,
received all Perdiccas's friends that fled to him from the camp at
Memphis.
After Antipater had gone over into Asia, the Ætolians, in pursu-
ance of their Icague concluded with Perdiccas, marched into Thes-
288
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
.-
a
saly, with a design to divide Antipater's army., They had twelve
thousand foot, and four thousand horse *, commanded, as general,
by Alexander, an Ætolian.
In their mareh they besieged the Locrians in Ampbissa, and ba-
rassed their country, and took some of the 'neighbouring towns and
villages. They likewise routed Polycles, Antipater's general, and
killed him, together with a great number of his men. Of the pri-
soners they took, some were sold for slaves, and others were ran-
somed. Afterwards, they broke into Thessaly, and brought over
many there to join them in the war against Antipater, insomuch as
they made up in the whole a body of five-and-twenty thousand
foot, and fifteen hundred horse; while they were taking in the ci-
ties, the Acarnanians bearing a grudge to the Ætolians, invaded
Ætolia, wasted and spoiled the country, and besieged the cities.
When the Ætolians heard what danger their country was in, they
left the rest of their forces in Thessaly under the command of Me-
non of Pharsalia, and they themselves speedily marched back with
their own soldiers into Ætolia, and struck such a terror into the Acar-
nanians, that they presently relieved their country. While they
were thus employed, Polyperchon, who was left general in Macedo-
nia, came into Thessaly with a noble army, and fought and routed
the enemy, killing Menon the general, and, cutting off most of his
army, soon recovered Thessaly.
As for the affairs of Asia, Aridæus and Python, protectors of the
kings, leaving the river Nile, came with the kings, and the whole
army, to Triparadisust, in Higher Syriaf. There Eurydices, the
queen, taking upon her to intermeddle and pry too curiously into
matters that concerned her not, and to control the protectors, Python
and his friends hereby became much disgusted, and, perceiving that
the Macedonians were more observant to her commands than to
theirs, they called a council, and gave up the protectorship. Where-
upon the Macedonians chose Antipater protector, with absolute au-
thority. A few days after Antipater, going to Triparadisus, found
Eurydice stirring up the Macedonians to a sedition against him;
whereupon there arose no small mutiny in the army. Antipater
hereupon called a general council, and so argued and canvassad the
business with them, that he allayed the spirit of the people, and
brought Eurydice, through fear of him, into a better and more mou
derate temper.
• Or rather four hundred.
+ Triparadisus, called by Pliny, Paradisus. Nat. Hist. I. 1, c. 23.-- The triple garden.
The Higher Seria, or what is called Cwlosyria,
§ The wife of Aridæus, one of the kings of Macedon.
a
Chap. III.
289
DIODORUS SICULUS.
After these things were over, Antipater made a second division of
the provinces, and allotted to Ptolemy that whereof he was then in
possession; for it was not practicable to remove him, because it
appeared Ptolemy had gained Egypt as a conqueror. Syria he gave
to Laomedon of Mitylene; and Cilicia to Philoxenus. Of the other
provinces, he assigned Mesopotamia and Arbelitis to Amphimachus;
the province of Babylon to Seleucus; and Susiana to Antigonus*,
because he was the first occasion of the overthrow of Perdiccas. To
Peucestes he granted Persia; to Tlepolemus, Carmania; to Python,
Media; and to Philip, Parthia., Aria and Drangina he allotted to
Stasander the Cyprian; Bactria and Sogdiana to Stasanor of So-
lium, born in the same island; Paropamisus, to Oxyartes, the father
of Roxana, whom Alexander married; and India, bordering upon
Paropamisus, to Python, the son of Agenor. Of the kingdoms next
adjoining, that which bordered upon the river Indus, continued un-
der the power of Porus; that which lay next to the Hydaspes, re-
mained with Taxiles: for these kings were not to be dispossessed
but with the royal army, and a skilful and expert general. As to the
northern provincest, he gave the government of Cappadocia to Ni-
canor; and the Greater Phrygia and Ciliciaſ to Antigonus, to hold
them as he did before. Lastly, to Cassander he assigned Caria; to
Clitus, Lyciaş; and to Aridæus, Phrygia at the Hellespont. Anti-
gonus he appointed general of the royal army, and commanded him
to pursue and destroy Eumenes. To Antigonus he also joined Cas-
sander and Clearchus, that, if he secretly projected any thing, he
might be discovered. He himself marched with the kings and his
troops towards Macedonia, that he might conduct the kings back into
their own country.
Antigonus therefore, being declared absolute commander of Asia,
drew the forces out of their winter-quarters to fight with Eumenes;
and to that end furnishing himself with all necessary preparations for
the war, he marched towards Eumenes, who then lay in Cappadocia;
where one called Perdiccas, one of his chief commanders, had de-
serted him, and lay encamped with three thousand foot and five
hundred horse (that followed him) about three days march distant.
But Eumenes sent out Phenices of Tenedos with four thousand good
foot, and a thousand horse against him; who with a swift march fell
upon the rebels on a sudden in the night, when they were asleep,
and took Perdiccas and all his army prisoners, about the second
watch of the night. Eumenes put to death the chief ringleaners
of the defection, and spared the rest of the soldiers, and mixed thein
* Fus Antigenes, capiain of the silver targetcers. + The Lesser Asia,
#Calicia for Lycia.
For Lydia
Vol. 2. No. 44.
PP
290
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
amongst his own, and by this means gained all their affections.
After this Antigonus, by a correspondence with one Apollonides,
general of the horse on Eumenes's side, by large promises so effected
the business, that he prevailed with him to betray Eumenes, and
come over to him in the heat of the fight. Eumenes was then en-
camped in Cappadocia, in places* very convenient for an engagement
with horse. Antigonus therefore made thither with his whole army,
and possessed himself of the higher ground under the foot of the
mountains. He had at that time above ten thousand foot, (of whom
most were Macedonians, brave and valiant men), and two thousand
horse, and thirty elephants. Eumenes had no less than twenty thou-
sand foot, and five thousand horse. Presently a sharp and bloody
battle was fought, in which Antigonus (through the sudden and un-
expected desertion of Apollonides with his horse, and going over to
the other side) got the day, killing eight thousand men of the enemy
upon the place, and possessing himself of all their bag and baggage;
so that the Eumeneans (through the slaughter that was made) were
in a consternation, and, by the loss of all their carriages, were
brought to an utter desperation. Hereupon Eumenes designed to
Aly into Armenia, to persuade some of the inhabitants to join with
him in arms; but, being prevented by a swift pursuit, and perceiving
his men to run away from him to Antigonus, he possessed himself
of a strong fort called Nora. It was indeed very small, not above
two furlongs in compass, but in strength impregnable: for the houses
were built upon a very high rock, and it was wonderfully fortified both
by nature and art. Besides, there was there laid up great store of
corn, fuel, and other things of that kind; so that all who fled for
shelter thither might be abundantly supplied with all things neces-
sary for many years together. Those that were his fast friends ac-
companied him in bis flight, and resolved at the last and utmost ex
tremity to die with him. They were in number, both horse and foots
about six hundred.
Antigonus being now strengthened with the forces of Eumenes,
and the revenues of his provinces, and having got together a great
mass of treasure, began to aspire to matters of higher concern: for
none of the Asiatic commanders were as yet so potent as to dare to
contend with him for the sovereign command. For the present,
indeed, he bore a fair outside towards Autipater, but secretly had re-
solved, that when he had firmly settled his affairs, he would neither
regard him nor the kings. And in the first place he blocked up
them in the fort with a double wall, and with deep trenches and works
of earth of a wonderful height. Then he entered into parley with
• In the country of Orcynia, in Cappadocia.-U.sh. Ann. 300.
>
量
​Chap. III.
291
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Eumenes, willing to renew their antient friendship, and endeavoured
to persuade him to join with him as an associate in all his affairs.
But Eumenes, foreseeing a change of fortune at hand, insisted upon
terms, and that degree of favour which seemed very unequal and
unfit to be granted to one in his present circumstances: for he re-
quired, as of right, to be restored to all his provinces, and to be fully
acquitted and discharged of all pretended offences whatsoever. An-
tigonus promised to acquaint Antipater with his demands, and, leav-
ing sufficient strength for continuing the siege, he marched against
the generals, (who were moving towards him with all their forces),
viz. Alcetas, the brother of Perdiccas, and Attalus, the admiral of
the fleet. Some time after, Eumenes sent ambassadors to Antipater,
to treat upon terms of peace, (amongst whom was Hieronymus, a
colonel, who wrote the history of the successors). In the mean time
he himself, having experienced many changes and turns of fortune,
was not at all discouraged, knowing very well what quick and sud-
den alterations had happened on both sides. For he saw that the
Macedonian kings were only vain and insignificant shadows of
princes, and the many valiant commanders who were with them so
managed their commands one after another as to seek only the ad-
vancement of their own private interests. Therefore he hoped (as
it afterwards happened) that many would desire his assistance, both
upon account of his skill in martial affairs, and of his constancy and
faithfulness.
But when he saw that the horse could not be exercised in a place
60 strait and craggy, and so were unserviceable for horse engage-
ments, he ingeniously found out a new and unusual way for the ex-
crcise of them: for he tied up their heads by cbains to a post or
strong stake, and drew them up so high as that they should stand
upon their hinder feet, and but just touch the ground with the ends
of their fore feet. Whereupon the horse presently, striving to get
his fore feet to the ground, did so curvet and caper, that legs, thighs,
and every member was in action, and by this motion the horse was
all of a foam; and thus they were all exercised to the highest de-
gree. He himself fed of the meanest food with the rest of the sol-
diers, and, by thus eating with them in common, not only gained to
himself the love of all his fellow-soldiers, but caused them to be at
perfect peace and concord one with another. In the mean time,
Prolemy in Egypt (Perdiccas with all the king's army being broken
in pieces) enjoyed that country as a conqueror: and, casting his eye
upon Phænicia and Colosyria, (as lying very commodiously to
Egypt), he used his utmost endeavour to possess himself of the cities
of those countries. To that end be created Nicanor, one of his
1
292
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
friends, general, and sent him into those parts with a considerable
army, who, coming into Syria, took Laomedon, the governor of that
province, prisoner, and brought all Syria under his own power. He
gained likewise all the cities of Phoenicia, and put garrisons into
them, and, having in a short time finished a troublesome expedition,
returned into Egypt.
CHAP. IV.
Antigonus routs Alcetas in Pisidia, and takes Attalus. Alcetas
received into Termessus, and there protected. He is murdered
there treacherously: his body inhumanly used by Antigonus.
Antipater's death. Antipater puts Demeas, one of the Athenian
ambassadors, to death. Polyperchon made chief in Macedonia.
Cassander conspires to put him out. Antigonus's plots to be
sovereign of all. Aridæus secures himself in Phrygia: besieges
Cyzicum. Antigonus goes to relieve it. Eumenes got out of
. .
Nora by Antigonus's order. Antigonus's further acts. The
various fortunes of Eumenes. A council in Macedonia called
by Polyperchon against Cassander. The decree of the council.
Polyperchon invites Olympias out of Epirus into Macedonia.
Writes to Eumenes to join with the kings.
AFTERWARDS, when Apollodorus executed the office of lord-
chancellor at Athens, and Quintus Publius and Quintus Poplias* were
consuls at Rome, Antigonus, after the defeat of Eumenes, determined
to march against Alcetas and Attalus: for those only remained of all
Perdiccas's friends and kindred who were skilful commanders, and
had forces sufficient to cope with him for the sovereign power. To
this end he marched away with his whole army out of Cappadocia,
and made for Pisidia, where Alcetas then lay, and came with a swift
march suddenly and unexpectedly to Critopolis, (as it was called),
having marched two thousand five hundred furlongs in seven days
and seven nights, and by that means was upon them before they were
aware; and there he first possessed himself of certain hills and other
difficult passes in the country. When Alcetas's party had intelli-
gence of the enemy's approach, they presently drew up a plialanxt
. Lucius Papirius.
Of horse,
Chap. IV.
293
DIODORUS SICULUS.
in order of battle, and by a fierce charge endeavoured to drive the
horse down the hills, who had now gained the tops of the mountains.
Hereupon began a sharp engagement, in which many falling on
both sides, Antigonus, with a body of six thousand* horse, bore
down with all his might upon the enemy, endeavouring to cut off all
ways and means of retreat to Alcetas: this done, those upon the tops
of the mountains, by advantage of the steepness and difficulty of the
piaces, easily put the phalanx to flight. Hereupon Alcetas's men,
being surrounded with the multitude of their enemies, and all passes
blocked up between them and their foot, they looked upon them-
selves all as dead men. Therefore, seeing no other remedy or means
left to escape, Alcetas (with the loss of multitudes of his men) at
length with much ado broke through his enemies, and got to the
foot. Hereupon Antigonus marching down from the hills with his
whole army, and his elephants, the enemy (who were far inferior in
number) were mightily terrified: for all the confederates were not
above sixteen thousand foot, and nine hundred horse; whereas the
forces of Antigonus (besides elephants) were above forty thousand
foot, and seven thousand horse. Those therefore with Alcetas (con-
sidering that they should meet with elephants in the front, and be
surrounded with multitudes of horse, and forced to engage with foot
far exceeding them, both in number of men, and in the skilfulness
of their arms, and besides had the advantage of the higher ground)
fell into confusion and amazement; nay, the enemy hastened, and
came upon them so fast, that they were not able to draw
up
their men
in due order of battle; so that the whole army was presently bruken
in pieces, and Attalus Docimus and Polemo, and many other com-
manders, were taken prisoners. But Alcetas, with his life-guard,
his children, and those Pisidians that sided with him, got into Ter-
messus, a city of Pisidia. Then Antigonus came to an agreement
with the captains, his prisoners, and the rest he disposed of among his
own troops, using them with all humanity, and by this means greatly
increased his army. But about six thousand Pisidians (valiant men)
resolved to stick to Alcetas, and promised that they would never de-
sert him upon any terms whatsoever: for they loved him entirely, for
the reasons following:
When Alcetas, after the death of Perdiccas, had no confederates in
Asia, he determined by some acts of kindness or other to engage the
Pisidians; because he knew he should thereby gain a warlike people,
who had a country very difficult to enter, and full of strong forts, to
be his confederates. Therefore in every expedition he always be-
stowed special marks of honour upon them above all the rest of his
* The Greek is so, but the Latin is six hundred.
.
294
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
confederates: for he so divided the spoil of his enemies, that the
half was ever allotted to them. Moreover, by his familiarity and
freedom in converse, daily invitations of the most eminent persons
amongst them to his table, and by his bounty and liberality in be-
stowing upon them many large gifts and rewards, he engrossed to
himself the love of all: so that now (having anchored all his hopes,
and placed his chiefest confidence in them) he was not frustrated in
his expectation: for, when Antigonus encamped with his whole army
before Termessus, and demanded Alcetas to be delivered up to him,
(and the elders of the city had determined to give him up), all the
young men got together, and resolved to run all hazards, and the ut-
most extremity, for his preservation. The elders indeed at first en-
deavoured to dissuade the young men, and draw them off from their
former resolve, wishing them not to involve their country in war for
the sake of one Macedonian. But when they saw that they could
not allay the leat of the young men, they secretly consulted together,
and in the night sent away a messenger to Antigonus, and by him
faithfully promised – That they would deliver Alcetas up to him, ei-
ther dead or alive. To this end, they desired him_That, by as-
saulting the city for some days, he would decoy the young men to
sally out, and, while he was skirmishing with them, to feign a flight;
by this means, when the young men were out of the city, and busy
in pursuit, they should have an opportunity to accomplish their de-
sign. Antigonus assented hereunto, and drew off from the city at a
further distance, and so urged on the young men to skirmishes and
light pickeerings. The elders now, discerning Alcetas left alone,
employed the faithfullest of their servants, and the most active men
of the city, (that were not engaged with him), and with them (in the
absence of the young men) set upon him; but could not take him,
for he killed himself with his own hand, lest he should fall alive into
the power of the enemy: but they laid his body upon a bier, casting
over it a coarse cloth, and carried it out of the gates, and, unknown
to them that were skirmishing, delivered it to Antigonus. By this
device they freed their country, and prevented a war; but they could
not avoid the fury of the young men. For when they returned, and
.
understood what was done, (through that ardent love and affection
they bore Alcetas), they were so enraged at their governors, that they
first possessed themselves of a part of the city, and resolved to set
the houses on fire, and then to issue out with their arms, and betake
themselves to the mountains, and waste and destroy all the country
round belonging to Antigonus. But afterwards they altered their
purpose as to the burning of the city, and began, by robbing and
spoiling, miserably to lay waste a great part of the enemy's country.
:
Chap. IV.
295
DIODORUS SICULUS.
In the mean time, Antigonus having received the body of Alcetas,
used it with all the disgrace and contumely imaginable for the space
of three days together; and it then beginning to putrify, contemptu-
ously cast it out without any burial, and so marched out of Pisidia.
But the young men of Termessus, bearing still a love and respect
to the abused body of the dead, took it up, and decently buried it,
He was of so kind and obliging a nature, that there was something
singular in him of love and respect to all those who deserved well,
and therefore he was ever towards such unchangeable in his love and
affection,
Antigonus having left Pisidia, made towards Phrygia with his whole
army. When he came to the city of the Creteans, Aristodemus the Mi-
kesian brought with him the news of Antipater's death, and that the chief
command, together with the protectorship of the kings, was devolved
upon Polyperchon the Macedonian. He was pleased with the news,
and now his hopes were exalted, for he made it his business to rule
and govern all the affairs of Asia, and to gain the absolute and sove-
reign command there without stooping to any. And thus stood the
affairs of Antigonus at this time.
In Macedonia, while Antipater was seized with a grievous sickness,
(and old age making way for his dissolution), the Athenians sent De
mades (who was looked upon as one that had managed things with
the Macedonians with a great deal of honesty and integrity) ambas-
sador to Antipater, to desire him to draw out the garrison from Mu-
nichia, as it was at first articled and agreed. Antipater at the first
was very kind to Demades; but after the death of Perdiccas, when
some letters of Demades, amongst others, were found amongst the
king's papers, wherein he pressed Perdiccas to hasten with all speed
into Europe against Antipater; though he suppressed his resentment
for a time, yet in truth he bore him a grudge. Therefore when De-
mades had delivered his message, as he was commanded, and had
somewhat sharply debated the matter concerning the garrison; An-
tipater, without giving any answer, committed his son Demeas (who
was joint ambassador with his father) to the executioners*, who pre-
sently carried him away to the prison, and for the reasous before.
mentioned cut off his head.
· Afterwards, Antipater, when he was near his end, appointed Poly-
perchon, the eldest almost of all Alexander's captains, and one in great
honour and reputation with the Macedonians, to be protector of the
kings, with chief and absolute authority. And his son Cassander he
created Chiliarcht, next in power and authority to Polyperchon. This
* Our sheriffs.
+ Commander of one thousand men; 'a colonel,
296
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
office was first made a place of honour and credit by the Persian kings,
and afterwards by Alexander when he grew great, and began to imitate
this and other customs of the Persians. But Cassander relished pot
his father's ordering of matters, and judged it very dishonourable to
his family to have one that was nothing related, either in blood or
affinity, to succeed in the sovereign command, when there was a son
who in Macedonia gave apparent and pregnant evidences both of
valour and parts, sufficient to govern the affairs of the state in the
room of his father.
In the first place therefore, he took a journey into the country with
some of his friends, where having both leisure and opportunity, he
discoursed with them about the chief command, and dealt with every
one of them privately apart by themselves, to contrive ways and means
for him to gain the principality; and by large promises prevailed with
them to join together in their assistance, for the accomplishment of
what he desired. He likewise privately sent ambassadors to Ptolemy,
to renew the league, and pray his assistance; and that he would to
that purpose help him with shipping out of Phænicia, and send them
with all speed to the Hellespont. In like manner he sent ambassa-
dors to the rest of the cities and captains, to solicit them to join with
them in arms. But the better to conceal his design, and that he
might not be suspected, he spent his time for many days together in
hunting.
But Polyperchon having gained the guardianship of the kings, cal-
led together a general council of his friends, and by their advice sent
for Olympias, wishing that she would take into her care Alexander's
son*, who was then but a child, and reside for the future as queen-
regent in Macedonia: for by reason of the quarrels and heart burn-
ings between her and Antipater, she had withdrawn herself into
Epirus.
When the death of Antipater was noised abroad in Asia, stirs and
commotions began to change the face of affairs there, while they that
were in power and authority made it their business, and sought every
one how to advance his own particular interest. The chief of whom
was Antigonus, who (upon the account of his having conquered Eu-
menes in Cappadocia, and was joined with his forces, and Alcetas and
Attalus in Pisidia, and besides was appointed by Antipater viceroy of
Asia, and had the command of a great army) bore himself very high,
and swelled with pride in the imagination of his own greatness. And
being now possessed already (in his own conceit) of the sovereignty,
he resolved neither to regard the kings nor their guardians: for in re-
gard he had a greater army, he was confident he could possess him-
Alexander, one of the kings.
a
.
४४४
t.12
-718
।
í
296
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
office was first made a place of honour and credit by the Persian kings,
and afterwards by Alexander when he grew great, and began to imitate
this and other customs of the Persians. But Cassander relished not
his father's ordering of matters, and judged it very dishonourable to
his family to have one that was nothing related, either in blood or
affinity, to succeed in the sovereign command, when there was a son
who in Macedonia gave apparent and pregnant evidences both of
valour and parts, sufficient to govern the affairs of the state in the
room of his father.
In the first place therefore, he took a journey into the country with
some of his friends, where having both leisure and opportunity, he
discoursed with them about the chief command, and dealt with every
one of them privately apart by themselves, to contrive ways and means
for him to gain the principality; and by large promises prevailed with
them to join together in their assistance, for the accomplishment of
what he desired. He likewise privately sent ambassadors to Ptolemy,
to renew the league, and pray his assistance; and that he would to
that purpose help him with shipping out of Phænicia, and send them
with all speed to the Hellespont. In like manner he sent ambassa-
dors to the rest of the cities and captains, to solicit them to join with
them in arms. But the better to conceal his design, and that he
might not be suspected, he spent his time for many days together in
hunting
But Polyperchon having gained the guardianship of the kings, cal-
led together a general council of his friends, and by their advice sent
for Olympias, wishing that she would take into her care Alexander's
son*, who was then but a child, and reside for the future as queen-
regent in Macedonia: for by reason of the quarrels and heart burn-
ings between her and Antipater, she had withdrawn herself into
Epirus.
When the death of Antipater was noised abroad in Asia, stirs and
commotions began to change the face of affairs there, while they that
were in power and authority made it their business, and sought every
one how to advance his own particular interest. The chief of whom
was Antigonus, who (upon the account of his having conquered Eu-
menes in Cappadocia, and was joined with his forces, and Alcetas and
Attalus in Pisidia, and besides was appointed by Antipater viceroy of
Asia, and had the command of a great army) bore himself very high,
and swelled with pride in the imagination of his own greatness. And
being now possessed already in his own conceit) of the sovereignty,
he resolved neither to regard the kings nor their guardians: for in re-
gard he had a greater army, he was confident he could possess him-
Alexander, one of the kings.
Chap. IV.
297
DIODORUS SICULUS.
self of all the treasures laid up in Asia, seeing there was none able to
oppose him. He had then in his army threescore thousand foot, and
ten thousand horse, and thirty elephants. And besides these, he
doubted not but to raise more, whenever he had occasion; for there
was money enough in Asia for the enlisting of soldiers abroad in any
place where he pleased.
Pondering these things in his head, he sent for Hieronymus the
historian, Eumenes the Cardian's special friend and fellow-citizen,
(he who fled to Nora), and having brought him to him by many rich
gifts and presents, he sent him as an agent to Eumenes, with instruc-
tions to desire him to forget the battle in Cappadocia, and to be his
friend and confederate in the war; and that he should have a far
larger province, and much more wealth than ever he enjoyed before:
and to let him know-
_That he should be chiefest of his friends, and
share with him in the advantages and successes of all his designs.
Then without any further delay he called his friends together, and
imparted to them the whole of his design; and to those who were of
greatest account among them, to some he allotted provinces, to others
commands in the army; and by raising the hopes and expectations of
every one of them, he made them all very forward to assist him in
carrying on his intrigues: for he determined to pass through all Asia,
and to remove all the governors of the provinces, and bestow them
upon his friends.
While he was in execution of these projects, Aridæus the gover-
nor of Phrygia at the Hellespont, understanding what he was con-
triving, resolved to secure his own province, and to that end put
sufficient garrisons into the principal cities, and marched against
Cyzicum, being the greatest and most important city of all others for
his purpose. He had with him above ten thousand foot of mercena-
ries, a thousand Macedonians, five hundred Persian darters and slingers,
and eight hundred horse, together with all sorts of engines for bat-
tery, both for shooting of darts and casting of stones, and all other
things necessary for the carrying on of a siege. He came upon the
city on a sudden, and having surprised most of the people when they
were abroad in the open fields, he pressed on the siege, and endea-
voured to force the inhabitants (who were in a very great fright) to
receive a garrison. The Cyzicans, though they were thus surprised,
and that many were shut out that were in the fields, and those that
remained were altogether unable to defend the place, looking upon it
as their duty to assert their liberty, cowardly sent forth ambassadors
to treat concerning the raising of the siege; and to let Aridæus
know. That the city was ready to submit to any thing he thought
fit, except the receiving of a garrison : but in the mean time they
VOL. 2, No. 44.
QQ
298
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
secretly armed all their young men and slaves that were fit for ser-
vice, and so lined the walls round with men for the defence of the
town. But Aridæus still pressing the matter for the receiving of a
garrison, the ambassadors answered _That they would acquaint the
citizens with his demands; which he consented unto, and so dis-
charged them: and being thus freed, they spent all that day, and the
night next following, in preparations for the holding out of the siege.
Being thus deluded, he lost the opportunity of accomplishing what he
designed: for the Cyzicans, in regard the city was very strong, and
well guarded on the land side (for it was a peninsula) and being mas-
ters likewise at sea, they easily repulsed the enemy. Moreover, they
sent to them of Byzantium for soldiers, and darts, and all other things
that were necessary and useful against an assault. All which were
speedily and readily sent to them; whereby their hopes were so re-
vived, that they were the more encouraged to stand it out to the ut-
most. They presently likewise put forth their long ships to sea,
and sailed along the coast, and took in those that were in the fields, and
brought them back into the city. Having therefore thus increased
the number of their soldiers (after the killing a great number of the
besiegers) they forced the enemy to raise the siege; whereupon Ari-
dæus (cheated by this stratagem of the Cyzicans) after a fruitless at-
tempt, returned into his own province.
In the mean time, Antigonus lying at Celæna, was informed of the
siege at Cyzicum, and therefore resolved to lay an obligation on that
city (then in danger to be ruined) to favour him in his future designs.
To that end he detached out of his whole army twenty thousand of
his best foot, and three thousand horse, and with these marched away
with all speed to the aid of the Cyzicans; but he came thither a little
too late: and so, though he made a show of great kindness to the city,
yet he was wholly frustrated in his design. But he sent ambassa-
dors to Aridæus, to expostulate matters with bim; first-
_Why he
dared to besiege a Greek confederate city without any provocation:
then, to charge him with open rebellion, and with a purpose to make
himself absolute lord and sovereign of the province. Lastly, to com,
mand him to depart out of the province, and thence forward to live
a private life, and content himself with only one city for his sub-
sistence.
Aridæus hearing these demands of the ambassadors (and charging
them with insolence) told them he would not leave the province;
but that he would garrison all his cities, and was resolved to decide
the matter with him by the sword.
In pursuance of what he had said, (having every where fortified
his towns and cities), he sent away a general with part of his army,
a
Chap. IV.
299
· DIODORUS SICULUS.
commanding him to join with Eumenes, and to free the fort from the
siege, and Eumenes from the straits and difficulties wherein he then
was, and to persuade him to be his confederate in the war.
Antigonus, in the mean time, eager to be revenged on Aridæus,
sent away some of his forces against him; and he himself marched
with a numerous army towards Lydia, with a purpose to depose Clitus
the lord-lieutenant of that province: who having before intelligence
of his march, garrisoned all his principal cities, and he himself sailed
over into Macedonia, to inform the kings and Polyperchon of the
revolt and impudence of Antigonus, and to crave their aid and as-
sistance.
Antigonus at his first approach had Ephesus delivered up to him,
by the assistance of some in the city: afterwards, when Æschylus the
Rhodian arrived at Ephesus with four ships, wherein were six hun-
dred talents of silver sent out of Cilicia to the kings in Macedonia,
he seized upon the money, alledging that he had occasion to use it
for the raising and listing soldiers; by which act he sufficiently de-
clared to the world, that he was altogether designing his own inte-
rest, and was an apparent enemy to the kings. After this, he be-
sieged those cities that stood out, some of which he took by assault,
and others he gained by fair words and promises.
Having now related the acts of Antigonus, we shall pass over to
those things that happened to Eumenes. This man had the frequent
experience of sudden turns and changes of fortune, being sometimes
in low, and other times again (beyond all expectation) in very prose
perous circumstances.
In former times, when he assisted Perdiccas and the kings, he
gained the province of Cappadocia, and those places that, as mem-
bers, belonged to it, where he lived in the height of prosperity, com-
manding both men and money at his pleasure: for he conquered
Craterus and Neoptolemus, two famous captains, who then com-
manded the before unconquered troops of the Macedonians, and
killed them both in the fight: so that now he seemed to be invinci-
ble, when on a sudden his fortune was so changed, that he was
routed by Antigonus in a great battle, and forced to fly with a few
friends to a very little fort for shelter. Being then shut up, and
hemmed in with a double wall, he had no friend left that could help
him in his distress; but after be had been cooped up a year together,
now utterly despairing of deliverance, unexpectedly and on a sudden
appeared an opportunity of freedom from all his troubles: for Anti-
gonus, who a little before had straitly besieged him, and earnestly
sought to take away his life, (the scene being changed), now soli-
eits him to be a partner with him in his concerns; and so (upon a
a
а
300
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
mutual stipulation upon oath between them) he was freed from the
pressures and hardships of the siege. And thus, after a long time,
being unexpectedly delivered, he continued awhile in Cappadocia,
where he again got together his old friends, and his former fellow-
soldiers, that were dispersed and scattered up and down in the coun-
try; and he was so wonderfully beloved, that many of his associates
and companions, in the same hopes and expectations, presently
flocked to him, ready to join in arms, and be observant to all his
commands. To conclude, within a very few days he had got toge-
ther above two thousand soldiers, who cheerfully listed themselves,
besides those five hundred friends who endured the siege with him in
the fort: and, by the assistance of fortune, he was at length raised to
that height, that he gained the king's forces, and defended the inte-
rest of the kings against all that dared to deprive them of their sove-
reign authority. But we shall give a more exact account of these
matters shortly bereafter, in their proper time and place. And so,
having now in short related the affairs of Asia, we shall pass to things
done in Europe.
Cassander, though he was excluded from the chief command of
Macedonia, yet was not at all discouraged, but resolved to gain it;
for he looked upon it as a base and dishonourable thing that the so-
vereign authority, enjoyed by his father, should now be managed by
others. But discerning that the Macedonians favoured Polyperchon,
he privately discoursed with some of his friends, and then sent them
(that nothing might be suspected) to the Hellespont: he himself in
the mean time continuing for some days together in the country, and
spending bis time in hunting, made every one believe that he had no
thoughts or designs of aspiring to the sovereign command. But
when he had got all things ready for his journey, he secretly departed
out of Macedonia, and proceeded to the Chersonesus, and thence
forward to the Hellespont; where, passing over, he went to Antigo-
nus in Asia, craving his assistance, and told him that Ptolemy would
join with him. Antigonus readily embraced the offer, and made
him large promises of assistance, and engaged forthwith to supply
him with forces both for land and sea service. But all this was no-
thing but dissimulation, pretending that he joined with him upon
account of the love and kindness he always bore towards Antipater;
whereas in truth he designed to divert Polyperchon with fierce and
bloody wars, to the end that he might with more ease subdue Asia in
the mean time; and so, without any hazard, gain the sovereign com-
mand of all at last.
While these things were acting, Polyperchon, the protector of the
kings, having a prospect of a great war he was likely to have with
Chap. IV.
301
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Cassander, (and conceiving that it was not fit to undertake any thing
without consulting first with his friends), assembled all bis captains,
and all those that were of chief authority among the Maeedonians.
And, forasmuch as it was apparent that Cassander was strengthened
with the forces of Antigonus, to gain all the cities of Greece; and
that some of them were garrisoned with his father's forces, and others
were governed by an oligarchy, influenced chiefly by the friends and
favourites of Antipater: and besides all this, that Ptolemy, who had
the power in Egypt, and Antigonus, who had openly and apparently
deserted the kings, were confederates with Cassander; and that both
were richly stored with men and money, and had the command of
many potent cities and provinces: for these reasons he appointed a
consultation, to consider how the war should be managed against
them. After the matter had been banded to and fro with variety of
opinions, it was at length resolved that the cities of Greece should
be restored to their liberties, and the oligarchy every where abolished:
for by this means they conceived they should weaken the interest of
Cassander, and much advance their own reputation, and gain strong
and powerful confederates. Hereupon they that were present forth-
with sent to the ambassadors of the cities, and, wishing them to be
courageous, promised to restore them to their several democracies;
and they delivered to the ambassadors the decree in writing, that
every one of them (when they returned into their countries) might
the better inform the people of the kindness of the kings and captains
to the Grecians. The decree was in this form:
« SINCE it has ever been the practice of our ancestors to express
their acts of grace in the many instances of their bounty towards the
Grecians, ourselves are likewise desirous to preserve and keep on
foot what they determined, and are willing to evidence to the world
the kindness and good will we shall ever be careful to preserve to-
wards the Greeks: and whereas it is well known that even in the
life-time of Alexander, and before the kingdom devolved upon us,
we were of opinion_That all ought to be restored to that peace and
form of government which was ordered and appointed by our father
Philip, and written to all the cities at that time concerning that affair:
yet afterwards it happened that some unadvisedly, when we were far
remote from Greece, made war upon the Macedonians; which un-
ruly persons being suppressed and subdued, by the help and conduct
of our captains, many cities were thereby involved in great troubles,
and brought under the smart and sense of many inconveniences:
impute, therefore, the cause of all those sufferings (as justly you
may) to those commanders. But now, in reverence and due regard
302
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
to that antieot constitution, we grant to you our peace, and the same
kinds of government which you enjoyed under Philip and Alexander,
and full power and authority to manage all other things, according
to the several rules and orders by them prescribed. We likewise re-
cal all them who have either voluntarily withdrawn themselves, or
have been forced away by the command of our captains, from the
time that Alexander first landed in Asia. It is likewise our plea-
sure _That all those thus recalled by us enjoy their estates without
quarrelling or remembrance of former injuries, and that they be re-
stored to the franchises and liberties of their several cities; and
whatever decree is made against them, let it be abrogated, except
such as are banished, by due course of law, for murder or sacrilege.
But we do not hereby intend to recal the exiles of Megalopolis, nor
Polyenerus, who are condemned for treason; nor the Amphisseneans,
nor the Triccæans, nor the Pharcadonians, nor the Heracleots. But
as for all others, let them return before the thirtieth day of the month
Xanthicus*. But if there be any laws or orders made by Philip or
Alexander against them, let them be brought to us, that such course
may be taken therein as may be most for the service and advantage
of us and of the cities. Let the Athenians enjoy all other things as
they did in the time of Philip and Alexander; and the Oropians hold
Oropus as now they do. Yet we restore Samos to the Athenians,
because our father Philip before gave it to them. Let all the Gre-
cians make a law_That none take up arms, or act any thing against
us; otherwise, that such be banished, and forfeit all their goods.
And we have ordered that Polyperchon shall manage these and all
other matters: and let all be observant to him in what we have be-
fore written to you; for those that do contrary to what we have pre-
scribed, we shall not in the least pardon.”
a
This decree being transmitted to all the cities, Polyperchon wrote
to Argos, and the rest of their cities, commanding them _That all
that were in any command in the commonwealth under Antipater
should be forthwith banished; and that some should be put to death,
and their estates confiscated; that, being reduced to extremity, they
might be in no capacity to assist Cassander. He sent letters like-
wise to Olympias, Alexander's mother, who was then in Epirus, for
fear of Cassander, to entreat her to return with all speed into Mace-
donia, and take care and charge of Alexander's little son, till he was
of age, and capable to take upon him the sole management of af-
fairs. He wrote moreover to Eumenes, that he would stick to the
interest of the kings, and not league by any means with Antigonus;
• April.
Chap. D.
303
DIODORUS SICULUS.
but make his choice, either to come over into Macedonia, in order to
join with him in the protectorship of the kings, or abide in Asia, and
to receive both men and money from them to make war upon anti-
gonus, who had now openly declared bimself a rebel against the
kings, who would be sure to restore him the province which Antigo-
nus had forced from him, and likewise all other privileges and ad-
vantages which he ever at any time before enjoyed in Asia. And
besides, he alledged, that it became Eumenes above all other men to
protect the royal family, as consonant to all those demonstrations of
his loyalty, in his late appearances on the behalf of the kings; and if
he stood in need of forces, he himself, together with the kings, would
come over into Asia with the whole army. These were the transac-
tions of this year.
CHAP. V.
Polyperchon courts Eumenes to assist the kings. Eumenes's pru-
dence amongst the Macedonian captains. Ptolemy sends to the
captains and others not to assist Eumenes. Antigonus contrives
to kill Eumenes; who marches into Phoenicia. Nicanor de-
ceives the Athenians, and still keeps Munychia, and subtilely gets
the Piræus. Ordered by Olympias to deliver the Piræus and
Munychia to the Athenians; but he shifts it off. Alexander,
son of Polyperchon, enters Attica; secretly corresponds with
Nicanor, and displeases the Athenians. Phocion's hard usage
at his trial in Athens; is condemned, and executed. Cassander
arrives at the Piræus. Polyperchon comes against him, but
returns. Besieges Megalopolis; but is there completely baffled,
and his elephants destroyed by a stratagem. A sea-fight be-
tween Clitus and Nicanor. Nicanor beaten. Clitus afterwards
routed by Nicanor, is killed in his flight to Macedonia. Anti-
gonus goes after Eumenes. Eumenes near losing his army by
the breach of a dyke in Babylonia. The Greek cities revolt to
Cassander. The Athenians make peace with him. He kills
Nicanor.
ARCHIPPUS being chicf magistrate of Athens, and Quintus Ælius
and Lucius Papirius Roman consuls, the letters from Polyperchon
were delivered to Eumenes presently after his release out of the fort;
304
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
in which were contained, besides what was before declared _That
the kings had, of their bounty, bestowed upon him five hundred ta-
lents, to repair the losses he had lately sustained, and had sent letters
to the governors and treasurers of Cilicia to pay to him the said five
hundred talents, and what other monies he should have occasion for,
either for raising of soldiers, or any other necessary uses. And that
they had ordered a thousand Macedonian Argyraspides, with their
officers, to be observant to him, and readily and cheerfully to serve
him upon all occasions, as he that was appointed general, with full
and absolute power and authority, over all Asia. There came like-
wise letters to him from Olympias, by which she earnestly entreated
him to be assistant both to her and the kings; for that he only re-
mained the most faithful of all the friends they had, who was able to
relieve the desolate state and condition of the king's family. She
likewise desired him to advise her - Whether it was better for her to
remain still in Epirus, (and not trust him who claimed the guardian-
ship of the kings, but in truth sought the kingdom), or to return?
Hereupon Eumenes forthwith wrote to her back again_That he
conceived it most advisable for ber at the present time to continue in
Epirus, till the war was ended: that he himself was resolved to be
ever faithful and constant in his love and duty towards the kings,
and not in the least to adhere to Antigonus, who was aspiring to
gain the kingdom: and because Alexander's son, by reason of the
tenderness of his age, and the covetousness of the captains, stood in
need of help, he looked upon it as his duty to expose himself to the
utmost hazards for the preservation of the kings. Hereupon he
forthwith commanded all his soldiers to decamp, and so marched out
of Cappadocia, having with him about five hundred horse, and above
two thousand foot: for he had no time to wait upon the slow march
those who had promised to join with him; because a great army of
Antigonus (under the command of Menander*) was near at hand,
and it was now no longer safe for him to stay in Cappadocia, being a
declared enemy of Antigonus: but, though this army came three
days too late, (and so lost their opportunity), yet they resolved to
pursue the troops with Eumenes; but, not being able to reach him,
they returned into Cappadocia: for Eumenes, making long marches,
presently recovered Mount Taurus, and so got into Cilicia. Here
Antigenes and Tautamus, the captains of the Argyraspides, with
their friends, (in obedience to the letters of the kings), met Eu-
menes, after a long and tedious march, and joyfully congratulated
him upon his unexpected deliverance out of his great troubles, pro-
mising to be ready on all occasions at his command. There met
* Leander.
Chap. V.
305
DIODORUS SICULUS.
him likewise about three thousand Argyraspides out of Macedonia,
with great demonstrations of love and affection. This sudden and
almost incredible change was the subject of every body's admiration;
when they considered how the kings and Macedonians (a little be-
fore) had condemned Eumenes and all his followers to die, and
now, having forgot that sentence denounced against him, not only
pardoned him, but promoted him to the highest place of command
in the whole kingdom. And it was not without just cause, that they
who considered the wonderful changes that attended Eumenes should
be thus affected _For who that does but observe the different acci-
dents in the course of man's life, would not be amazed at the various
turns and changes of fortune to and fro, first on one side, then on
another? Or who, trusting in the present support of a prosperous
fortune, would upon that account be so far transported as to forget
the infirmity of human nature? For every man's life (as disposed
and ordered by the providence of some one of the gods) has been
chequered (as it were) with the reciprocal turns of good and evil in
all ages of the world. So that it is a wonder, that not only what is
strange and unaccountable, but that even every thing which happens,
should be surprising and unexpected. Therefore who can suffi-
ciently value history? For, by the variety and change of affairs there
represented, a check is given to the pride of the fortunate, and allays
the grief and misery of the unprosperous. Which things Eumenes
then wisely considering, and weighing beforehand the instability of
fortune, he managed his affairs with the more caution and prudence.
For thinking within himself, that he was but a stranger*, and had no
right to kingly power and authority, and that the Macedonians (who
were now under his command) not long before had judged him to
die, and that the commanders and captains were all inflamed with
the heat of ambitious designs, he conceived that in a short time he
should be despised and envied, and at length be bronght into danger
of his life: for none are willing to submit to the commands of those
that they look upon to be their inferiors, nor to be lorded over by
them who ought rather to be under the commands of others them-
selves. Seriously, therefore, pondering these things within himself,
in the first place he refused to accept of the five hundred talents or-
dered him by the kings' letters for the repair of his former losses,
and refitting of himself with necessaries : for he said _He needed
not so large a sum, seeing he pretended to no principality there;
and that which he now enjoyed was not of his own choice, but he
was forced by the kings to undertake the present service. To con-
clude, he said.
That by reason of the continual fatigues of war he
* Of Cardia, in the Chersonesus of Ibrace.
Vol. 2. No, 44,
RR
306
.
DIODORUS SICULU'S.
Book XVIIT.
was so worn out, that he was not able to endure those hardships, and
retreats from place to place, any longer, especially because that a
stranger had no right to command, and by law was excluded from
the authority due to be executed by such as were of the same nation
with the Macedonians: for he said. There was represented to him a
wonderful apparition in his dream, which he judged very necessary
to discover to them all, because it might (as he conceived) conduce
much to the promoting of peace and concord, and the public good.
He declared _That in his sleep Alexander, the late king, seemed to
appear to him, (as he was when living), adorned in his royal robes,
and sitting on his throne, giving out orders to his captains, and (as
in his health) disposing and managing all the affairs and concerns of
the kingdom. “ Therefore,” says he, “ I am of opinion_That a
throne of gold should be made at the charge of the king's treasury,
in which should be placed the diadem, sceptre, and crown, and all
the other ensigns of royalty; and that at spring of day all his captains
should offer to him sacrifices, and, standing together near the throne,
should receive commands in the king's name, as if he were alive at
the helm of the government.” All were very well pleased with what
he said; and thereupon every thing was presently prepared for the
purpose, for the king's treasury was very rich; and that stately work
was forthwith finished, and the throne was set up, whereon were
placed the diadem, sceptre, and the arms he used to wear. Then
was placed an altar with fire upon it, upon which all the captains,
one after another, cast frankincense, (taken out of a golden casket),
and other costly sweet odours, and adored Alexander as a god. After
this were ordered a great number of seats, upon which the captains
and great commanders sat together, and there consulted and debated
all the weighty and important affairs. Eumenes in the mean time
carrying himself with an equal respect and deference in all public
meetings towards all the captains, and suppling them with fair and
courteous-language, not only avoided the strokes of envy, but thereby
gained all their hearts. By the same artifice (through the prevalency
of superstition relating to the king) he so elevated the hopes and ex-
pectations of the whole army, as if some god were to be their gene-
ral. In like manner he behaved himself towards the Argyraspides,
and thereby só gained their favour, that they counted him highly
worthy to be the protector of the kings.
Then he picked out the fittest persons from among his friends, and
furnished them with great sums of money, and employed them to
hire soldiers up and down upon large pay. Whereupon some of
them forthwith went into Pisidia and Lycia, and the bordering couns
tries, and diligently put in execution what they were commandedo
Chap. V.
307
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
Others went into Cilicia, and some into Cælosyria and Phænicia,
and others sailed to the cities in Cyprus. This listing of soldiers
being noised abroad, and reported what large pay was offered, many
came flocking in from the cities of Greece, and enrolled their names
for this service; so that in a short time they had raised above ten
thousand foot, and two thousand horse, besides the Argyraspides, and
those who came along with him.
The forces of Eumenes being thus on a sudden increased to an
incredible number, Ptolemy arrived with the feet at Zaphyrium, in
Cilicia, and sent away some commanders to solicit the Argyraspides
not to side with Eumenes, whom all the Macedonians had con.
demned to die. He sent likewise to the governors of the garrison
in Quinda*, desiring them not to help Eumenes with any money,
and he would bear them out: but no man regarded what he said,
because the kings, and their protector Polyperchon, and Olympias,
the mother of Alexander, had written to them to be obedient in all
things to Eumenes, as to the commander-in-chief, and general of the
kingdom.
· But of all others, Antigonus was most displeased and uneasy at the
growth and advancement of Eumenes ; for he looked upon him as
the most powerful enemy he had set up against him by Polyperchon,
because he had deserted the kings: therefore he resolved by some
stratagem to cut him off; to which end he employed one of his
friends, Philotas, and delivered to him letters to the Argyraspides,
and the rest of the Macedonians, (that sided with Eumenes), and
sent along with him thirty Macedonians (who were crafty and fair-
spoken men) with orders to deal with Antigenes and Tautamus, the
captains of the Argyraspides, privately and apart by themselves, to
destroy Eumenes, promising them great rewards, and larger pro-
vinces; and that they should likewise apply themselves to their fel-
low-citizens and acquaintances amongst the Argyraspides, and by
bribes draw them to cut off Eumenes: but they were not able to
prevail with any except Tautamus, one of the captains of the Argy-
raspides, who being corrupted by bribes, promised not only for him-
self, but undertook to draw over his colleague Antigenes 10 this foul
design: but Antigenes being a prudent and faithful man, not only
refused, but prevailed with him that was before corrupted to alter his
purpose: for he told him_That it was more expedient that Eume-
Des should live than Antigonus: for he being already grown great,
when he became more powerful, would thrust them all out of their
governments, and give them to which of his friends he pleased; but
* Where the kings' exchequer for Asia was kept.-Strabo, l. 14, 72.
308
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
as for Eumenes, being but a stranger, he durst not attempt to gain
the sovereign authority, but would be content with his present com-
mand, and to gain their favour, would secure to them their provinces,
and perhaps add more to them. And in this manner were all the pro-
jects against Eumenes frustrated and brought to nought. In the
mean time Philotas delivering a letter of Antigonus to the commanders,
written to all the captains and soldiers in general; the Argyraspides and
other Macedonians got together by themselves unknown to Eumenes,
and commanded it to be read openly to them: in which were accu-
sations against Eumenes, and advice to the Macedonians forthwith
to seize upon him and put him to death, and if they did not, that he
would come presently and fall upon them with his whole army, and
do exemplary justice on them for their disobedience. Upon the
hearing the contents of these letters, the Macedonians and their cap-
tains were greatly terrified: for one of these two was unavoidable,
either to fall under the revengeful displeasure of Antigonus by adher.
ing to the kings, or be punished by Polyperchon and the kings for
observing the commands of Antigonus. While all the soldiers were
in these distracted thoughts, Eumenes comes in amongst them, and
hearing the letters read, advised them to obey the orders of the kings,
and not to give any regard to an open declared rehel; and, having
spoken many things pertinent to the present occasion, he not only
avoided the present immjuent danger, but inclined all the soldiers to
him in a firmer bond of duty and affection than ever they were be-
fore. And thus this man, who was again on a sudden even involved
in insuperable dangers, yet was so wonderfully fortunate, as thereby
to strengthen himself the more. Ordering, therefore, his army to
march, he made for Phænicia, and endeavoured to get shipping
from all sea-towns along as he went, in order to make up a strong
navy, that, by having a fleet in Phænicia, he might be master of the
sea, and have what forces he pleased, and be able to transport Poly-
perchon at any time with safety out of Macedonia into Asia against
Antigonus. To this purpose therefore he continued in Phænicia.
While these things were acting, Nicanor (who held Munychia)
hearing that Cassander had left Macedonia, and was gone to Antigo-
nus, and that Polyperchon was suddenly expected with an army in
Attica, earnestly solicited the Athenians to stand frm in their affec-
tions to Cassander. But when none would consent to what was de-
sired, but all were rather for the garrison to march away with all
speed, at first he over-persuaded the people with fair words to for-
bear a few days, and that he would afterwards du what should be
most for the good of the city. But after the Athenians had been
1
Chap. V.
309
DIODORUS SICULUS.
quiet for some days, secretly in the night he brought soldiers by lit-
tle and little into Munychia, so that now he had got in strength suffi-
cient to defend the place, and to oppose those who designed a siege.
Hereupon the Athenians, perceiving that Nicanor meant nothing
in what he did for the advantage and safety of the city, sent a mes-
senger to the king and Polyperchon, desiring their assistance, ac-
cording to the purport of their letters, whereby they restored the
Grecians to their liberties. Then they had frequent assemblies and
consultations among themselves how to manage the war against
Nicanor: and, while they were busying their heads about these af-
fairs, he drew out many of his mercenaries secretly in the night,
possessed himself of the walls of the Piræus and the mouth of the
harbour. The Athenians hereupon were vexed to the heart, to see
how they were gulled and cheated as to Munychia, and had carelesly
lost the Piræus. They sent, therefore, some of the greatest persons
of quality, and such as were Nicanor's special friends, that is to say,
Phocion the son of Phocus, Conon the son of Timotheus, and
Clearchus the son of Nausicles, as agents to Nicanor, to debate the
late transactions they had with him, and requiring him to permit them
to enjoy their laws and liberties, according to the late edict in that
behalf. To whom he answered_That they must go to Cassander,
for he was commissioned by him to be governor of the garrison, and
had no power to treat of himself.
About this time came a letter from Olympias to Nicanor, com-
manding him to deliver Munychia and the Piræus to the Athenians.
He, understanding that the kings and Polyperchon had recalled
Olympias into Macedonia, and committed the young son of Alexan-
der to her care and tuition, and had restored her to her former royal
state and dignity, (the same that she enjoyed when Alexander was
living), merely out of fear, promised to deliver them, but always
contrived some colourable excuse or other, and so protracted the
business. The Athenians in former times had ever a great esteem
for Olympias, and now purposing in the reality of their affections)
to celebrate those public honours which were decreed to her, (and
hoping that the liberties of the city would be by her perfectly re-
stored to them, and put out of the reach of all future danger) were
very jocund and exceedingly pleased.
· In the mean time, the promises of Nicanor not being performed,
Alexander, the son of Polyperchon, came with an arıny into Attica.
The Athenians indeed thought that he came to restore to them
Munychia and the Piræus; but the event proved the contrary; for he
seized
upon both for the service of the war. For some who had been
Antipater's friends, (and among them Phocion), fearing some pu-
310
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
nishment from the laws, met Alexander, and, advising him what to
do, persuaded him to retain the forts in his own hands, and not re-
store them to the Athenians till the war was ended with Cassander,
Hereupon Alexander encamped at the Piræus, and would not permit
the Athenians to treat with Nicanor; but, by his separate treaties
with him, and secret and private transactions of affairs between them,
he gave manifest indications of the injury designed the Athenians.
The people therefore met together in a common assembly, and de-
posed the present magistrates, and set up such as most favoured the
democracy, and condemned those that favoured the oligarchy, some
to death, and others to banishment and confiscation of goods, amongst
whom Phocion was one, who had the chief command in the time of
Antipater.
These being all forced out of the city, fled to Alexander the song
of Polyperchon, and endeavoured to engage bis help for their pre-
servation. Alexander kindly received them, and wrote on their be-
half to his father, to protect Phocion and his friends, as those that
favoured his interest, and engaged readily to afford their assistance
in all his concerns: the Athenians likewise sent an embassy to Poly-
perchon, to accuse Phocion, and to solicit for the restitution of Mu-
nychia, and the restoring them to their antient laws and liberties.
Polyperchon indeed had a very great desire to retain the Piræus, be-
cause that port might be of weighty concern and importance in the
carrying on of the war, but was ashamed to aet contrary to the edict
divulged by himself; and, fearing lest the Grecians should desert
him if he dealt so basely with that city, which was the metropolis,
he changed his mind. Having therefore heard the ambassadors, he
courteously dismissed those from the Athenians with a gracious an-
swer, but seized upon Phocion and all his followers, and sent them
bound to Athens, granting power to the people either to pardon
them, or put them to death: whereupon, a general assembly being
called in Athens, judgment of death was resolved upon Phocion and
the rest that were accused: this was carried on by those who had
been banished under Antipater, and others that favoured not that go-
vernment; both these strongly urged to have them put to death.
The sum of the accusation was this _That after the Lamian war,
they endeavoured for the most part to enslave their country, and to
abolish the democracy, and the antient laws. Time being allotted
to the accused to plead their cause, Phocion began to speak for him-
self; but the people tumultuously cried out against all that he said,
and rejected his defence, so that the accused knew not what course
to take. When the tumult ceased, Phociun began again to speak,
whereupon the whole multitude set up a shout, on purpose that what
Chap. D.
311
DIODORUS SICULUS.
chat
not it
jander
perni
reaties
then,
dians
.
I de
the
ODK
ngst
e of
013
re-
jat
ce
yo
l-
S.
he said should not be heard: for the commonalty (having been re-
cently excluded from any share in the administration of the govern-
ment, and now lately restored to their right beyond all expectation)
bore an inveterate hatred against those who deprived the citizens
of their laws and liberties.
While Phocion was thus overborne, and even in a desparate con-
dition, struggling to preserve his life, those that were next to him
understood the justice and equity of his cause, but those at a distance
could hear nothing for the noise and clamour that was made by the
tumultuous rabble, but only discerned the various trembling mo-
tions of his body, occasioned by the inevitable danger that seemed to
threaten him. At length Phocion, in despair of his own life, cried
out aloud, desiring them to condemn him to die, but to spare the
rest.
But the common people being fierce and inexorable, some of
Phocion's friends stood up to make his defence. Hereupon the
people were quiet for awhile, and heard what they said at first; but
when they proceeded to urge arguments in support of his innocence,
they were rejected with tumultuous and contradicting clamours: at
length being all condemned by the unanimous voice of the people,
they were carried away to the gaol, there to be executed, and were
followed by many honest and sober men, who bewailed their condi-
tion, and the greatness of their misery: for upon serious consideration
of the inconstancy of every man's fortune, it terrified many to see that
magistrates and persons of eminent quality, and men that had shewed
many acts of kindness in the course of their lives, should neither
have liberty to plead for themselves, nor otherwise enjoy the benefit
of law. But many of the rabble being incensed against Phocion un-
mercifully, even rent his heart in pieces with scoffs and scorns, and
bitterly upbraided him with the misery of his present condition. For
hatred smothered towards men while in prosperity, when it breaks
forth with anger against them in time of their adversity, becomes
altogether savage and implacable. Being therefore all put to death
(according to the custom of the country) by drinking a potion of hem-
lock, all their bodies were cast forth unburied, out of the bounds and
limits of Attica: and this was the end of Phocion, and others who
suffered the same calamity with him.
After this, Cassander having got five-and-thirty long ships and
four thousand men, sailed into the Piræus, and being received by
Nicanor, governor of the fort, possessed himself of the Piræus and
the harbour: but Nicanor kept Munychia himself, with a for suf-
ficient to defend the place. At this time Polyperchon and it
lay in Phocis; where, being informed of der's having
*
312
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS
at the Piræus, Polyperchon marched into Attica, and encamped near
the Piræus: he had with him twenty thousand Macedonian foot, and
four thousand confederates, a thousand horse, and sixty-five ele-
phants; he resolved therefore to besiege Cassander: but because
provisions were scarce, and the siege was likely to be long and tedious,
he was forced to leave so many of the soldiers in Attica as the country
was able to sustain, under the command of Alexander, and he him-
self marched into Peloponnesus with the greater part of the army, to
reduce the Megalopolitans to the obedience of the kings; for they,
being for an oligarchy, sided with Cassander. While Polyperchon
was busied in these affairs, Cassander sailed with bis fleet to the
Ægeans, and brought them in to join with him; but the Salaminians
(who were disaffected) he closely besieged, and being well furnished
both with men and arms, he assaulted them several days together,
and reduced them to very great extremities: but when the city was
near being taken by storm, Polyperchon sent a considerable force,
both by sea and land, to attack the besiegers; at whose approach
Cassander being affrighted, he raised the siege, and sailed back to
the Piræus. Then Polyperchon passed over to Peloponnesus, to
settle matters there for the service and advantage of the kings.
Coming there he called a senate, and spoke to them concerning their
joining with him as confederates in the war; he sent likewise com-
missioners to the cities with orders to put to death them that were
created magistrates in the oligarchy by Antipater, and to restore the
people to their antient laws.
Many obeyed the order, so that while slaughters and banishments
filled the cities, they that favoured Antipater's party were ruined and
destroyed; and the democratical governments being restored to their
antient laws, all joined with Polyperchon. The Megalopolitans only
kept firm to Cassander, therefore he determined to besiege their city.
The Megalopolitans hearing what was designed by Polyperchon,
ordered by a public decree that every thing should be brought into
the city that was then in the fields: then taking an account of their
strength, they found that in antient citizens, strangers, and servants,
they were in number fifteen thousand who were able to bear arms;
they forthwith therefore formed some intu' regiments, others they
appointed to work in the fortifications, and to some were allotted the
care and charge of guarding the walls; so that at one and the same
time some were employed in drawing a deep trench round the city,
some carrying earth out of the fields, and others repairing and making
up the breaches in the walls; others hammering of arms, and others
were busy in making darts and artillery; so that the dangers which
threatened, and the forwardness of the inhabitants, put the whole
Chap. V.
313
DIODORUS SICULUS.
:
을
​city into action: for the greatness of the king's army, and the wonder-
ful strength of the elephants that attended them, was noised abroad
in every place. And now all things were ready and prepared, when
Polyperchon approached with his army, and encamped near the city,
dividing his forces into two camps, one of Macedonians and another
of confederates; and then brings wooden towers to the walls, of that
height as to overtop them; on which towers men were placed with
all sorts of weapons, and with these he drove them off who were placed
on the ramparts.
In the mean time the walls being undermined, and the props and
supporters set on fire, three of the largest towers were destroyed, with
the ruin of the like number of turrets placed between them. This
great and sudden destruction caused the Macedonians to set up a
shout, and the strangeness of the thing amazed the besieged: and
now the Macedonians rush through the breach into the city, and the
Megalopolitans, before in parties, now all together (having the ad-
vantage of the difficulty of the place, occasioned by the rubbish) made
up to one part, and bravely hore the brunt of the enemy's attack, and
beat them off: then they cast up another work of earth to guard the
breach; and working night and day without intermission, raised ano-
ther wall between them and the enemy, which was presently com-
pleted; for being furnished with every thing that was necessary, and
having many hands at work, the Megalopolitans soon repaired the
damage sustained. As for those that assailed them from their wooden
towers, they annoyed them with their engines of artillery, and with
darts and stones out of bows and slings, galled and wounded many of
their enemies. After many were killed and wounded on both sides,
till night approaching, Polyperchon sounded a retreat, and drew off
his men into the
camp
The next day he removed the rubbish before the breach, to make way
for the elephants, for he thought by the strength of these creatures to
break through into the city: but the Megalopolitans, by the help and
conduct of Damides, (who in the wars under Alexander had learnt by
experience the nature and use of the elephants), altogether baffled the
enemy: for he, making use of his own reason and industry against
the strength and violence of the beasts, made their strong bodies use-
less. For in a great number of planks he drove sharp spikes, and
then strewed them here and there in deep trenches covered with
earth, so as that the points of the spikes might not be seen, and thus
over these he left the passage into the city: but he suffered none of
the soldiers to stand in front, but placed a great number of darters
and archers, and engines of artillery in the flank.
Polyperchon therefore having cleared the place, and now approach-
VOL. 2. No. 44.
.
SS
314
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ing with the throng of his elephants, an unexpected misfortune belel
them: for none appearing in front to oppose them, the Indians pressed
them forward to make their way into the city, who, by the great
weight of their bodies pressed down upon the spikes, so that their
feet being wounded, and even pierced through, they were so foundered
that they were neither able to go forward nor return back: and besides,
showers of all sorts of darts and arrows being poured upon them by
the flankers, some of the Indians were killed, and others so wounded
that they were disabled from further service.
In the mean time the elephants (through the multitude of darts,
and the strange and unusual wounds by the spikes) were so cruelly
tormented that they forced back upon their own men, and trod many
under foot. At length the strongest and most formidable amongst
them fell down, others became altogether unserviceable, and some
killed many of their own men.
Upon this success the Megalopolitans were much encouraged; but
Polyperchon wished he had never undertaken the siege; and as he
could stay no longer there, he left part of his army to carry it on, and
betook himself to more urgent affairs. Then he sent off Clitus the
admiral, with the flcet, commanding him to lie upon the coasts of
the Hellespont, to stop the passage of the forces out of Asia into
Europe, and to join with Aridæus, who had Aed to the city of the
Ganians, being an enemy to Antigonus. After he had passed over
the Hellespont, and taken in the cities of the Propontis, he strength-
ened his army with the forces of Aridæus. Nicanor, the governor
of Munychia, on the other side, being sent off with the whole fleet
by Cassander, sailed to those parts where Clitus lay: he joined like-
wise with the navy of Antigonus, so that he had a fleet of above a
hundred sail.
Hereupon there was a fight at sea near Byzantium*, in which Cli-
tus was conqueror, and sunk seventeen of the enemy's ships, and
took no less than forty, together with all their men. The rest got
into the haven of Chalcedon. Clitus being thus successful, imagined,
that ou account of this great loss, the enemy durst not again engage
at sea.
But Antigonus having intelligence of this defeat of the fleet, by his
industry and admirable conduct, quickly repaired it: for having sent
for several transport ships in the night, from the Byzantines, in which
he put darters, slingers, and other light-armed men, sufficient for the
present design, and in the night transported them to the other side;
who, attacking the enemy at land before day, (who had left their
ships, and were there encamped), put Clitus and his men into great
Now Constantinople.
Chap: V.
315
DIODORUS SICULUS.
terror and confusion, who in that sudden fear and amazement leaped
into their vessels, so that through the incumbrance of their luggage,
and the multitude of their prisoners, there was a great tumult and
disorder.
In the mean time Antigonus had fitted out some long ships, and
manned them with many of his stoutest foot soldiers, and bid them
boldly attack the enemy, for they were sure to be conquerors. Here-
upon they came up with Nicanor in the night, and about break of
day fell suddenly upon the enemy, still in confusion, and at the very
first charge put them to flight; some of the enemy's ships they broke
in pieces with the beaks of their own, and brushed off the oars of
others; some they gained without fighting, being delivered up by
the men on board. At length all the rest (except the adıniral's
ship) fell into their hands. Clitus forsook his ship, and got ashore,
designing to have preserved himself by getting into Macedonia;
but in his way falling amongst some of Lysimachus's soldiers, he
was slain.
Antigonus's reputation for skill and prudence in the management
of martial affairs, was much advanced by this remarkable vịctory.
Hereupon he was very earnest and intent to be master at sea, and
(without the least doubt of the matter) to gain the sovereignty of
Asia. To this end he chose out of his whole army, twenty thousand
foot, and four thousand horse, of the most active men, and marched
towards Cilicia, to destroy. Eumenes before he grew too strong. But
Eumenes knowing the hot temper of Antigonus, marched into Phæ-
nicia, to regain it for the kings, then unjustly detained from them by
Ptolemy: but not having an opportunity to do what he designed, he
left Phænicia, and marched with his army through Colosyria, to
get into the higher provinces. Afterwards he lost some of his men
at the river Tigris, by an attack upon him in the night, by some of
the inhabitants. In the like manner he was fallen upon in the pro-
vince of Babylon, by Seleucus, near the river Euphrates, and was in
great danger to have lost all his army; where by the breach of a dike
his whole camp was very near being overflowed and drowned. But
setting his wits at work he fled to a high bank of earth, and diverting
the water another way, preserved both himself and his army.
And so beyond his expectation he escaped Seleucus, and got into
Persia with fifteen thousand foot, and thirteen hundred * horse. Ha-
ving refreshed his soldiers after all their toils and labours, he sent to
the governors and captains of the higher provinces to furnish bim
with more men and money. And in this state were the affairs of Asia
this year:
Three thousand in the margin. -
316
Book XVIII.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
But as for Europe, after the losses and misfortunes of Polyperchon
at Megalopolis, many of the Greek cities revolted from the kings to
Cassander. And because the Athenians could not get rid of the gar-
rison either by the help of Polyperchon or Olympias, one of the most
eminent citizens made bold to say, in the public assembly_That it
was for the interest of the city to close with Cassander. At first there
was a great hurly-burly, some being for and others against what was
said: but the advantages being more calmly debated and considered,
by common consent it was at length agreed _That peace should be
made with Cassander, upon such conditions as could be obtained by
their ambassadors. In pursuance whereof (after soine meetings)
these were the terms agreed upon_That the Athenians should
quietly enjoy the city, the territory, and all the profits, together with
the shipping and all other things, and should for the future be friends
and confederates with Cassander; but that Cassander should for the
present hold Munychia till the war was ended with the kings: and
that the commonwealth should pay a tribute of ten minas; and that
an Athenian should be constituted protector and guardian of the city,
whoever Cassander pleased. Whereupon Demetrius the Phalerian
was chosen; who being invested with the office, kept the city in per-
fect peace, and behaved very obligingly towards all the citizens.
After this Nicanor brought his fleet into the Piræus, adorned with,
the beaks of ships gained in the late victory; on account of which
success he was at first highly honoured by Cassander, but afterwards
perceiving that he grew proud and haughty, and still detained the
fort of Munychia with his own soldiers, he suspected he intended to
revolt, and therefore laid a trap for him, and cut him off. Then he
marched into Macedonia, where many of the inhabitants revolted to
him: many likewise of the Greek cities were inclined to join with
Cassander*. For Polyperchon appeared to be slothful and careless
in managing the affairs both of the kingdom and the allies. Cas-
sander, on the other hand, behaved with great candour towards all,
and approved himself industrious in the management of public affairs,
so that he gained many who countenanced him in his seeking to obtain
the supreme authority.
But as Agathocles became tyrant of Syracuse the following year,
we shall, as we designed at the beginning, put an end to this book,
and begin the next with the advance of Agathocles to the throne, and
go on with the affairs proper and pertinent to our history.
* Antipater in the Greek, but erroneous.
317
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XIX.
PREFACE.
IT is an old saying, (brought down to us by tradition)_That none
overturn democracies, but men that overtop others in power and in-
terest. For which reason some cities are always jealous of such of
their fellow-citizens as grow great and powerful, and therefore do
what they can to depress them: for when men are in power, the next
step is to dumineer over their country; and with those that (through
the greatness of their interest above others) have grounds to expect
the sovereign authority, it is very difficult to be free from a desire
of monarchy: for it is very natural for those that are ambitious,
when they have much, to thirst after more, and never set bounds to
their insatiable ambition.
The Athenians therefore, upon this very account, made a law,
which they called Ostracism, for the banishing such as grew great
amongst them; not so much to punish them for any fault they had
committed, but to prevent the mischief and prejudice to their coun-
try, which, by their power and interest, they were in a capacity to
bring upon it: for they remembered (as it were an oracle) what
Solon had formerly said, who, foretelling the tyranny of Pisistratus,
composed this elegiac-
A city by great persons is o'erthrown,
And fools beneath a monarchy do groen.
!
Of all other places, Sicily was most infected with this desire of
monarchy, before the Romans reduced it into the form of a province:
for the cities, deceived by the flattery of the orators, advanced incon-
siderable men to that height, that they became absolute lords over
the deluded multitude.
318
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
But the advancement of Agathocles to be prince of Syracuse is,
above all others, the most singular and remarkable: for he began at
first in very mean and unlikely circumstances, but at last he involved
not only Syracuse, but all Sicily, and Libya itself, in blood and
slaughter. He was so mean and low in the world, in his origin, that
he followed the trade of a potter; from whence he rose to that height
of power and cruelty, that he lorded over the greatest and richest
island in the world, and for some time gained the greatest part of
Africa, and some parts of Italy, and filled the cities of Sicily with
butcheries and oppressions. None of the tyrants that ever were be-
fore him committed the like villanies, or exercised such barbarous
cruelties upon their subjects: for, as for his own kindred, he put them
all to death, root and branch; and he so plagued the cities, that he
sometimes butchered all that were at men and women's estate, and
would cut the throats of multitudes of poor innocents for the faults
of a few, without any difference or distinction, and then presently
would murder whole cities, men, women, and children.
But because this book, with others that follow, comprehend the
tyranny of Agathocles, omitting any further preface relating there-
unto, we shall now connect things coherent with those that were be-
fore related, first allotting to every thing we treat of its due and pro-
per time.
In the preceding eighteen books, we have endeavoured to set forth
whatever was done in the known parts of the world, from the begin-
ning of time, to the year next before the reign of Agathocles, to
which time, from the taking of Troy, are computed eight hundred
and sixty-six years.
In this book, beginning with the first of his reign, we shall end
with the battle fought by Agathocles with the Carthaginians, con-
taining an account of affairs for the space of seven years.
Chap. I.
319
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. I.
Agathocles's parentage and education: his rise: his stratagems:
his bloody massacre at Syracuse. He gains the sovereign
power. The affairs of Italy. Olympias returns into Mace-
donia by Polyperchon's means. The armies revolt to her. Her
cruelties. She murders Eurydice, and Arideus, her husband.
Affairs in Asia. Eumenes and Seleucus. Eumenes joined by
many of the captains. The number of their forces. He
comes to Susa. Attalus and others imprisoned by Antigonus
in a strong castle; seeking to escape, are afterwards besieged,
and taken.
1
AT the time when Demogenes ruled as chief magistrate at Athens,
and when Lucius Plotius and Manius Fulbius were Roman consuls,
Agathocles became tyrant of Syracuse. That things as they were
severally done may be more clearly and distinctly understood, we
shall premise a few things concerning this prince.
Carsinus of Rhegium, being banished from his country, dwelt at
Thermae in Sicily, which city was then in the hands of the Cartha-
ginians. This man married a woman of that place, who, when she
was big with child, used often to be troubled with strange dreams:
being therefore much perplexed in his mind concerning this embrio,
he intrusted this affair with some devout Carthaginians, who were
then going to Delphos, and desired them to inquire of the oracle
concerning this child; who faithfully performing what they were en-
joined, the oracle gave this answer_That that child would bring
dreadful calamities upon the Carthaginians and all Sicily. The
father, being terrified at this prediction, exposed the child in the
open fields, and left it with some to watch and observe its end.
After several days, it still continued alive, and the guard left with it
growing remiss and careless, the mother in the mean time stole
the child away in the night, but durst not bring it back to her own
house, for fear of her husband; but she intrusted it with her bro-
ther Heraclides, and called it Agathocles, after the name of her
own father.
Where being brought up, he grew very beautiful, and of strength
of body above what was usual at his age. When he came to be sea,
ven years old, Carsinus was invited by Heraclides to sacrifice*, and
• To a feast at a sacrifice.
320
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
there seeing Agathocles playing with some other children about the
same age, he greatly admired both his strength and beauty; and
when his wife told him_That the child which he so exposed, if he
had been brought up, would have proved as manly a child as that he
then saw, he answered, that he was sorry for what he had done, and
then fell a-weeping: whereupon the woman, perceiving that what she
had done would be very pleasing to her husband, discovered to him
the truth of the whole matter; whereat he was mightily pleased, and
took away his son, and, out of fear of the Carthaginians, removed
with all his family to Syracuse: but, being but a poor man, he taught
his son, then a child, the potter's trade: at which time Timoleon the
Corinthian, having routed the Carthaginians at the river Cremissus,
made all free of the city that would come in to him, amongst whom
Carsinus (with Agathocles) were enrolled as citizens; and Carsinus
died a little time after.
The mother of Agathocles had in a certain place set up her son's
statue in stone, upon which a swarm of bees fastened, and began to
make their wax-combs upon the hips of the statue: which remark-
able circumstance being related to those who apply themselves to
studies of that kind, all unanimously agreed_That when he came
to be a man, he would be famous; which happened accordingly: for
Demas, a nobleman of Syracuse, falling in love with Agathocles, first
supplied him liberally with every thing he had occasion for, so that
he began in some measure to taste of plenty; afterwards Demas, be-
ing created general of the Agrigentines, advanced him to be a colo-
nel, in the room of one that was then lately dead. He was indeed
very remarkable and of great esteem before he was an officer, upon
account of the strength of his body; for in the time of training and
military exercise, he bore so great a weight of armour, and carried
such mighty weapons, as no other man was able to bear. But now,
since he was made a military tribune, his fame spread abroad much
more than it did before; for he was eager to fight, daring in action,
and bold, nay, impudent in his harangues to the people. Demas
afterwards fell sick, and died; and, having left all his estate to his
wife, Agathocles married her, and so was esteemed one of the richest
of the citizens.
Afterwards, the Crotonians being besieged by the Brutii, the Sy-
racusans sent a great army to their relief, under the command of
Antander, the brother of Agathocles, and others; but the sovereign
command and chief management of the affair was committed to
Heraclides and Sosistratus, men who employed themselves all their
lives long in assassinations, murders, and all kinds of wickedness
Chap. I.
321
DIODORUS SICULUS.
!
and debauchery; which the book* next preceding this hath particu-
larly set forth. With those in this expedition (by a decree of the
people) was joined Agathocles, who was then a colonel; and, though
he had remarkably approved his valour against the barbarians, yet he
was so envied by Sosistratus, that he altogether disregarded hini,
not allowing him the honour due to his demerits: at which he was
so exasperated, that he accused Sosistratus and his followers to the
people, as having designs to advance himself to the monarchy. But
the Syracusans giving no regard to those accusations, Sosistratus,
after his return frona Crotona, became supreme and absolute lord of
his country.
Agathocles being incensed against him, first (with those that sided
with him) remained in Italy, and endeavoured to possess himself of
Crotona; but, failing in his design, with some few along with him,
he escaped to Tarentum, where he was entertained, and taken into
pay; but, committing many rash and inconsiderate acts, he began to
be suspected of some intended innovation, and thereupon his com-
mission was taken from him; upon which he got together the exiles
of Italy, and relieved them of Rhegium, who were then besieged by
Heraclides and Sosistratus. Afterwards, when the monarchy was
abrogated at Syracuse, and Sosistratus was expelled out of the city,
he returned into his country. And in regard at that time many of
the nobility who were for an oligarchy (to the number of six hundred
of the greatest persons of quality) were, together with the magis-
trates, thrust out of the city, a war broke out between the exiles and
those that were for a democracy, and the Carthaginians sided with
Sosistratus and his exiles: hereupon there were daily skirmishes and
drawing up of armies one against another, in which Agathocles, acting
sometimes as a private soldier, and at others as a commander, gained
the reputation both of valour and policy; for always upon every op-
portunity he invented some stratagem or other which proved advan-
tageous to his party; amongst which there was one thing especially
to be remembered.
The Syracusans had encamped near to Gela, and at that time in
the night he broke into the city with a thousand armed men, who
were presently met by Sosistratus, with a strong and well-ordered
party, who forced them that had entered back, and killed three hun-
dred of them: the rest, looking upon themselves all as lost, endea-
voured to get out at a sally-port, and were, beyoud all hope and ex-
pectation, freed from their present imminent danger by Agathocles:
• Nothing is said of them iu the preceding book, therefore there must be some mis-
take or omission. Rhocomannus thinks there was either another book between these, os
a want of what was to have been inserted in tise preceding buok. --See his notes.
Vol. 2. No, 44,
TT
322
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
for he fought with great valour and resolution at the head of his
men, and received seven wounds; and, when he was even ready to
faint, (through loss of blood) and the enemy bearing down upon
him, he commanded the trumpeters to sound a charge at both parts
of the walls; which being presently done, those who came to force
out those that had entered, could not discern the truth of the thing,
because of the darkness of the night; and therefore, believing that
another party of the Syracusans had broken in at both places, they
made a halt, and pursued no farther: and so, being divided into two
parts, at the sound of the trumpets, they forthwith ran together to
defend the walls. In the mean time Agathocles, with his soldiers,
having thus made room for themselves, got safe to the trenches; and
thus, having deluded the enemy, he not only wonderfully preserved
his own men that first entered, but seven hundred more who came in
to his assistance.
After this, Acestorides the Corinthian being created general at
Syracuse, Agathocles was thought to aspire to the monarchy for his
good service; but he avoided the danger that hung over his head
upon that account: for Acestorides (not willing to cut him off, for
fear of a tumult) commanded him to depart the city, and ordered
some to kill him in the night as he was making away. But Agatho-
cles, conceiving what the general was plotting against him, picked
out one of the young men that was very like himself, both in stature
and feature, and delivered to him his horse, arms, and garments,
and by this means subtilely deceived those who were sent out to be
his murderers; but he himself slinked away in bye paths, in a poor
ragged coat; and his pursuers, by the arms and other signs, conjec-
turing that the other was Agathocles, (the darkness of the night not
permitting a perfect discovery), perpetrated indeed the murder, hut
missed the person.
Afterwards, the Syracusans having re-admitted the exiles that were
driven out of the city with Sosistratus, and having made peace with
the Carthaginians, Agathocles himself, now an exile, raised an army
of his own in the heart of the country, at which not only the citi-
zens, but the Carthaginians were much affrighted, and therefore
he was courted to return into his own country; and when he came,
being conducted into the temple of Ceres by the citizens, he there
swore that be would do nothing to the prejudice of the democracy.
Patting on therefore a cloak of dissimulation, as if he would pro-
tect the democracy, and having deceived the people by divers tricks
and devices, he was made general and conservator of the peace, till
all matters should be appeased amongst the exiles that were returned
to the city: for every company and fraternity were divided into many
Chap. I.
323
DIODORUS SICULUS.
factions, and very great heart-burnings there were between private
and particular persons: but the senate of six hundred, that was ap-
pointed to govern the city after an oligarchy, was most fierce against
Agathocles's party; for the members of this assembly were such as
were the richest and of the best quality among the Syracusans.
However, Agathocles, who now affected the sovereignty, gained
many opportunities for the accomplishing of his designs: for he had
not only the command of an army as general, but news being brought
that there was an insurrection in the interior of the country at Erbita,
he gained a further opportunity to increase his army, and raise what
men he pleased without suspicion. Under colour, therefore, of his
espedition to Erbita, he raised men out of Morgantium and other
cities in the heart of the country, together with those that had for-
merly served him in the wars against the Carthaginians; for all these
had a great respect for Agathocles, upon the account of the many
instances of his kindness towards them, throughout the whole war,
On the other band they hated the six hundred, who had been a part
of the oligarchy in Syracuse, and no less abhorred the people who
forced them into obedience. There were three thousand of them
that were thus ready with heart and hand to overturn the democracy:
To these he joined some of the citizens, who by reason of their po-
verty envied the power and pomp of the great ones.
When every thing was ready, he ordered the soldiers to meet him
at spring of day, in a body, at Timoleontium*; and he himself in the
mean time sent for Pisarchus and Decles, who seemed to be the most
leading men among the six hundred, pretending to discourse with
them concerning the public good: when they came to him, accom-
panied with forty of their friends, he pretended he was to be betrayed
by them, and thereupon seized them all, and accused them to the
soldiers, declaring, that for his love to the people, he was likely to be
hurried away to destruction by the six hundred, and sadly bewailed
his miserable state and condition; at which all the soldiers were so
enraged that they cried out, that revenge should be presently taken,
without any further delay, upon the authors of such injustice: upon
which he commanded the trumpets to sound a charge, and ordered
his soldiers to kill those that were the ring-leaders of the mischief,
and spoil and plunder the six hundred, and all those that sided with
them, of all their goods and estates.
Hereupon all being now eagerly set upon ravage and spoil, the
whole city was filled with horror and confusion; for the most iono-
cent of the citizens, not dreaming of any massacre designed against
them, ran out of their houses into the streets, to learo the cause
• Near Syracuse.
324
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the uproar; whereupon the soldiers, partly through their covetous-
ness to enrich themselves, and partly through madness and rage, fell
upon the naked people that (through ignorance) had no arms to de-
fend themselves, and put them all to the sword. For the soldiers
having secured all the varrow lanes and passes in the city, the citizens
were inhumanly murdered, some in their bouses, and others in the
streets, and many (altogether innocent, not accused of the least fault)
were knocked on the head while they were asking the reason why
they were to be killed. For the common soldiers (having now all in
their hands) made no difference betwixt friend and foe; but he was
sure to be reputed an enemy where most was to be gotten by his
fall; so that then the city was filled with violence, murders, slaugh-
ters, and all kinds of wickedness: for some, out of former grudges
spared not to load those they before hated with all sorts of disgrace,
having now full sway to do whatever they pleased; others judging it
an act of prudence to enrich themselves by the massacre of them that
were rich, spared no means, nor omitted any contrivance to destroy
them. For some broke down the gates of the out-courts; others, by
ladders ascended the house tops; and some fought with them that
defended themselves from the roofs of the houses. Nay, there was
no safety even to them who fled to the temples under the shelter of
the gods; but piety towards the gods was crushed and borne down
by the cruelty of men: and these things Greeks against Greeks, in
their own country, and kindred against kindred in a time of peace,
,
without any regard either to the laws of nature, or leagues, or reve-
rence to the gods, dared thus audaciously to commit: upon which
account not only friends, but even enemies themselves, and every
sober man, could not but pity the iniserable condition of these dis-
tressed people. All the gates were shut up, and above four thousand
were killed in one day, for no other fault but that they were in
greater esteem than others: of those that endeavoured to fly, some
in running to get out of the gates were laid hold on, others who cast
themselves over the walls, escaped to the next towns. Some, through
fear and inconsiderateness leaped off the walls, and broke their
necks. After all there were thrust out of the city, as exiles, above
six thousand, of whom the greatest part fled to Agrigentum, where
they were received and entertained with that humanity as was agree-
able to their present condition. But those of Agathocles's faction
(who spent the whole day in butchering of the citizens) were not
sparing in committing their rage and villanies upon the women, but
thought they should be revenged upon them that escaped death, if
they could hut abuse their kindred and relations, in the most vile and
beastly manner imaginable: for that it was very reasonable to think
Chap. I.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
325
a
that it would be more bitter than death itself to husbands and parents
to think of the abuses of their wives, and the ravishings of their
daughters: but from hence we must forbear composing a tragedy, as
is very usual with other writers, especially to stir up compassion to-
wards them that are involved in such horrible sufferings; because
none will expect an express account of every particular, when the
whole is so ready and clear to be understood. For they that durst
impudently at mid-day murder innocents in the open streets and
market-place, have no need of a writer to set forth what they did in
the houses in the night, and how they behaved towards wives and
young maids then in the power of their enemies, without any protec-
tion or defence.
But Agathocles, after he had glutted himself with the slaughter of
the citizens two whole days, brought together all the prisoners, and
released Dinocrates, on account of an old friendship with him: but
as to the rest, such as were his greatest enemies he put to death,
and banished the others. Then calling a common assembly, he
accused the six hundred, and those who had favoured the oligarchy,
declaring that he would purge the city of all those who affected a
monarchy, and restore the people to perfect liberty; and that he
would henceforth stand upon equal ground with them all, and live
a private life, free from further cares and toils: upon saying of which
he threw away his general's coat, and put on a jacket, and so went
his way, making a show of himself as one of the common people,
He did this dissemblingly to act the part of a communer; being in
the mean tiine very well assured that there were many of his brethren
in iniquity in the assembly, who would never suffer the generalship
to devolve on any other.
Hereupon those that had robbed the oppressed people of their
goods, immediately cried out, and with a loud voice wished him not
to desert them, but to take upon him the entire and absolute manage-
ment of all affairs. At first he appeared to be very shy; but heing
afterwards more earnestly pressed by the multitude, he told them he
was willing to accept of the chief command as general, provided
he should not be joined with any other colleague, for he should
never be willing to be accountable (as the law then was) for the
miscarriages and irregularities of those that should be joined with
him in commission. Hereupon the people having agreed that the
whole power should be in him alone, they voted him general, with
full and absolute authority; so that for the future he plainly
acted the part of a monarch, and managed the affairs of the whole
city.
The Syracusans, as yet tame and quiet, some curbed by fear,
326
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and others kept down by force, durst not discover (as a thing vain
and to no purpose) the heart-burnings that were among them.
But
many of the poorer sort, and those that were in debt, were
much pleased with this revolution: for Agathocles had promised in
the senate that all former debts should be remitted and made void,
and that lands should be allotted and shared out to the poor.
After he had finished these things, he ordered that none for the
future should be killed or otherwise abused. But on the contrary,
changing his former course, he carried himself with a great deal of
mildness towards the people, encouraging many with rewards, and
not a few with large promises, and courting all with smooth words,
he not a little ingratiated himself into the favour and good opinion of
the people: and though he was advanced to so high a pitch of ho-
nour, yet he put not on a diadem, nor suffered the attendance of a
life guard, nor allowed any difficulty of access to his person, which
is the common practice of almost all tyrants: but he made it his
business chiefly to look after the public revenue, and the making and
providing all sorts of weapons and arms: he built, likewise, other
long ships, to increase and strengthen his fleet: and lastly, he
brought many of the cities and towns in the heart of the country to
stoop to his authority. And thus then stood the affairs of Sicily.
In Italy. this was the ninth year of the war of the Romans with the
Samnites, before which time there had been very sharp battles and
engagements between them; but then (except some incursions into
the enemy's country) there was little or nothing done worth taking
notice of, only some forts were taken, and the country barassed. But
in Apulia the Romans wasted and spoiled all Daunia*, and having
conquered the Canutiit, received hostages of them. There were added
likewise two other tribes to the former, the one of Falerina, and the
other of Ufentiva.
While these things were acting, the Crotonians made peace with
the Brutians; but the war being continued another year with the
exiles, (who were expelled by the people for their conspiring with
Heraclides and Sosistratus, of which we have given a particular ac-
count in the former bookI) they created Parones and Menedemus
their generals. In the mean time the exiles went to Thurium, and
there listed three hundred mercenaries, and endeavoured in the
night to break into the city: but being repulsed by the Crotonians,
they encamped on the confines of the Brutians; but within a short
time after, they were every man cut off by a much stronger party, who
sallied out of the city against them.
• Now Capitania, in the kingdom of Naples.
† Canutii in France, now calicd Chartres. : No such account appears there.
Chap. I.
327
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
>
And now having given an account how matters went in Sicily and
Italy, we shall pass to the things done in other parts of Europe.
Eurydice being queen-regent in Macedonia, as soon as she heard
that Olympias was preparing for her return, sent an express to Cas-
sander, then in Peloponneus, wishing him to basten to her aid and
assistance; and in the mean time, by her bribes and promises, she
induced the most active men among the Macedonians to favour her
designs.
But Polyperchon got an army together, and being joined with
Æacidas of Epirus, he brought back Olympias, with Alexander's
son*, into the kingdom. And hearing that Eurydice was at Eutæa in
Macedonia with an army, aiming to make an end of all by one battle,
he makes swiftly after her; and presently, as soon as the armies en-
camped one over against the other, on a sudden the Macedonians (in
reverence to Olympias, and calling to mind the many advantages and
kindnesses they had received at the hands of Alexander) turned
about; whereupon king Philipt with all his servants were presently
taken. Eurydicet, likewise, together with Polycles, (one of her
counsellors), were afterwards taken, having before returned to
Amphipolis.
Olympias having thus gained the custody of both the kings, and
likewise the kingdom, without blood, used not her good fortune with
that humanity as she ought to have done: but at the very first, impri-
soning both Eurydice and Philip her husband, she used them very
cruelly; for she cooped them both up in a very small place, where
every thing for their necessary use was delivered to them through a
little narrow hole: and for many days together she thus (against all
law and conscience) exercised her rage and revenge upon these mise-
rable princes.
But when she perceived that the Macedonians spoke ill of her, out
of pity and commiseration towards those that were thus miserably
dealt with, she delivered Philip to certain Thracians, (after he had
reigned six years and four months), to be stabbed with poniards.
But she ordered Eurydice to be more severely dealt with, because
she was so free of her tongue, that she was still blabbing it out that
she was fitter to rule the kingdom than Olympias: and therefore she
sent to her a sword, a rope, and a cup of poison, bidding her choose
which she would to despatch herself with, neither valuing the former
state and dignity of the injured lady, nor commiserating the common
lot of mankind: and therefore she came at length to experience the
same turns of fortune herself, and came to an end every way becom-
* His name was Alexander, the son of Roxana. Aridæus, called Philip.
Eurydice the wife of Philip.
328
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
ing her cruelty. For Eurydice, in the
For Eurydice, in the presence of the person that
brought her the instruments of her death, prayed the gods that she
might have the like present sent to her; and then having bound up
the wounds of her husband, as well as the shortness of time would
permit, she wrapped him up, and so without any womanish com-
plaints, or any base dejection of spirit through the greatness of her
misery, she strangled herself with her own garter.
Having made an end of these two, she killed Nicanor, the brother
of Cassander: then she picked out a hundred Macedonians, of Cas-
sander's friends, and put them all to death. Having gratified her
revenge by these cruel acts, many of the Macedonians were incited
to hate her mortally for her cruelty: for they all remembered the
words of Antipater, who, like an oracle, a little before his death, had
given strict charge not to admit this woman to govern the kingdom.
Olympias therefore managing tbings after this rate in Macedonia, it
clearly pointed out a revolution in the state.
In Asia, Eumenes having with him the Argyraspides under their
captain Antigenes, wintered in the province of Babylon, in the towns
called Carrhæ; thence he sent ambassadors to Scleucus and Python,
requiring them to assist the kings, and that they would join with him
in the war against Antigonus. Python was appointed lord-lieutenant
of Media, and the other of the province of Babylon, when the second
division of the provinces was made in Triparadisus. Seleucus an-
swered, that he and those with him would supply the kings with
whatever they wanted, but that he would never observe any of the
commands of Eumenes, who was adjudged to die by the common
suffrage of the Macedonians. After many disputes relating to this
resolution, Python and Seleucus solicited Antigenes and the Argyras-
pides by their agents to cast off Eumenes.
But the Macedonians rejecting what they required, Eumenes
commended them for their fidelity, and marched away and came to
the river Tigris, and there encamped, three hundred furlongs from
Babylon: for he designed to march to Susa, because he intended to
raise forces out of the higher provinces, and to make use of the
king's treasures as there should be occasion. But he was forced to
pass the river, because that part on this side was eaten up by foraging
and deprepations, and the country on the other side was yet un-
touched, and afforded plenty of forage and other provisions for his
army. While he was procuring vessels to pass over the river, Seleu-
cus and Python sailed up the river with two gallies of three tiers of
oars, and many other small vessels, being part of those that Alexander
built at Babylon.
As soon as they arrived at the place where the passage was intended,
Chap. 1.
329
DIODORUS SICULUS.
they renewed their solicitations to the Macedonians, to persuade them
to cast off Eumenes, and not to abet and encourage a fellow against
them who was but a stranger, and had destroyed multitudes of the
Macedonians. But when Antigenes could not be prevailed with
upon any terms whatsoever, the Seleucians sailed to an old sluice,
and broke down the head of it, where it was grown up through length
of time; upon which the Macedonian camp was surrounded with
water, and all the tract of ground overflowed, so that the whole army
was in great danger of being utterly lost. Al that day, therefore,
they rested, considering and advising what was best to be done in
such an exigency. The next day, without any disturbance from the
enemy, they transported the greatest part of the army in flat-bottomed
boats, to the number of thirty, forced forward with long poles: for
Seleucus had only horse with him, and those far inferior in number
to the enemy. And now night approached, when Eumenes (in great
pain for his carriages left behind) caused all the Macedonians to re-
pass the river; and then, by direction of one of the natural inhabitants,
he set upon cleansing another such like place, by which the water
might be easily diverted, and the ground all round about drained dry.
Which when Seleucus perceived, (intending to get rid of them out of
his province with what speed he could), he sent ambassadors to them
to make a truce, and so permitted them to pass over the river: but
forthwith sent expresses to Antigonus in Mesopotamia, to desire him
with all speed to come down with his army, before the governors of
the provinces came in with their forces.
Eumenes having now passed the river Tigris, as soon as he came
into Susiana, he divided his army into three bodies, on account of
the scarcity of provisions; and thus marching through the country
three several ways, he was in great want of bread-corn, and therefore
distributed rice, millel*, and dates, with which that country abounded,
amongst the soldiers.
Although he had before taken care to send away the king's letters
to the lord-lieutenants of the upper provinces, yet he then again
sent expresses, to desire them all to meet him with their forces in
Susiana. At which time it so happened that they had their forces
then in the field, and were got together for some other reasons.
Of which it is necessary here to say something before we proceed
further.
Python was lord-lieutenant of Media, and general of all the higher
Satrapies, by 'nation a Parthian, who had killed Philotas the former
general, and had placed Eudamus, his own brother, in his room.
Upon which all the other provinces joined together, lest they should
• A white grain, of which the Indians make oil,
VOL. 2, No.44.
UU
330
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
be served in the same way, because Python was of a restless spirit, and
had engaged himself in matters of high importance. Having there-
fore overcome him in battle, and cut off most of his army, they drove
the man himself out of Parthia, who first sought for shelter in Media,
and in a short time after he went to Babylon, and prayed assistance
from Saleucus, and that they might join together in one common in-
terest. The governors, therefore, for these causes having drawn
their forces together, Eumenes's messengers came to the armies
when they were ready, and prepared in the field. Peucestes was the
most renowned captain of them all, and was made general by a
unanimous assent. He was formerly squire of the body to Alexan-
der, and advanced by the king for his valour. He was lord-lieutenant
of the greatest part of Persia, and in great esteem among the natives.
And for this reason, he of all the Macedonians was allowed by Alex-
ander to wear a Persian gown, because he thought thereby to ingra-
tiate himself with the Persians, and engage them to be more observant
to all his commands. He then had with him ten thousand Persian
archers and slingers, and of other nations (taken into the rank of
Macedonians) three thousand, with six hundred horse of Greeks and
Thracians, and of Persian horse four hundred.. Polemon, a Mace-
donian, governor of Carmania, had fifteen hundred foot, and seven
hundred horse. Siburtius, governor of Arachosia, had a thousand
a
foot, and six hundred and ten horse. Androbazus, likewise, was
sent from Paropamisus (of which province Oxyartes was governor)
with twelve hundred foot, and four hundred horse. Stasander, go-
vernor of Aria and Drangina, being joined with the Bactrians, had
with him fifteen hundred foot, and a thousand horse. Out of India
came Eudamus with five hundred* horse, and three thousand foot,
and a hundred and twenty elephants, which he got after Alexander's
а
death, when he treacherously slew Porus. There were in the whole,
with the governors of the provinces, above eighteen thousand and
seven hundredt foot, and four thousand and six hundred horse.
When all these came into the province of Susiana, and joined with
Eumenes, a public assembly was called, where was a hot dispute
concerning the choice of a general. Peucestes, on account of his
bringing most men into the field, and his eminent post under Alex-
ander, conceived he had most right to challenge the chief command.
Antigenes, captain of the silver targeteersf, insisted upon it, that the
whole power of election ought to be committed to his Macedonians,
who, under Alexander, had conquered Asia; and by their valour had
so signalized themselves, as to gain the reputation of being uncon-
Three hundred in the margin.-Usk. Ann. 307.
* The particulars make one-and-twenty thousand. Argyraspides.
а
Chap. I.
331
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
querable. But Eumenes fearing lest by their divisions they should
become an easy prey to Antigonus, advised that they should not make
one general only, but that all who were before chosen captains and
commanders should meet every day in the king's pavilion, and there
consult of all the public affairs. For a tent had been before erected
to Alexander, and his throne placed therein, to which they used to
resort, (offering incense as to a god), and there debate all matters of
weight and special concern. This advice being approved and ap-
plauded by all, they met there every day, as in a city governed by a
democracy. Afterwards being come to Susa, there Eumenes was
supplied with what monies he had occasion for out of the kings' ex-
chequer. For the kings by their letters had ordered the treasurers,
that they should issue to Eumenes alone so much money as he at any
time required. Hereupon he gave the Macedonians six months pay
before-hand, and to Eudamus (who brought the elephants out of
India) he paid two hundred talents, under colour to defray the charge
and expence of the elephants, but in truth the more to engage him
to his interest. For if contests should arise, that party would have
the greatest advantage with whom he sided, by reason of the terror
occasioned by the use of these beasts. The rest of the governors
every one maintained their own soldiers they brought with them.
This done, Eumenes continued for some time in Susa, and there re.
freshed his army.
In the mean time Antigonus, who wintered in Mesopotamia, re-
solved forthwith to set upon Eumenes before he grew too strong:
but when he heard that the provincial governors, with their forces,
together with the Macedonians, were joined with him, he let his
soldiers rest, and made it his busines to raise more. For he saw that
he had need of a great army, and reason to make more than ordinary
preparations for the war.
In the midst of these preparations Attalus, Polemon, Docimus,
Antipater, and Philotas, who before were commanders in Alcetas's
army, and were taken prisoners and kept in an extraordinary strong
castle, hearing of Antigonus's intended expedition into the higher
provinces, (conceiving now they had gained a fair opportunity), bribed
some of their keepers to suffer them to escape. Having therefore
procured arms, about midnight they set upon the guard: they them-
selves were but eight in number, (surrounded with four hundred men),
yet valiant and expert soldiers, through their experience in the war
with Alexander. Xenopithes, the governor of the castle, they threw
off from the walls, headlong down a steep rock, a furlong high; and
as to the rest, some they killed upon the place, and others they hurled
down, and then set the houses on fire. Hereupon they took into the
2
332
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
castle five hundred men that were without, expecting the issue: it
was indeed very well stored with provisions, and all other things ne-
cessary: but they consulted together whether it was better to stay
there, and trust to the strength of the place, waiting for relief from
Eumenes, or to get away, and wander about in the country, making
use of a change and turn of fortune when it might happen. Much
canvassing and disputing there was ou both sides: Docimus was for
leaving the place, but Attalus declared he was not able to endure la-
bour, by reason of the hardship of his late imprisonment.
Whilst they were thus at variance amongst themselves, above five
hundred foot and four hundred horse, were drawn out of the neigh-
bouring garrisons, and got together in a body, besides three thousand
of the natural inhabitants, and upwards, gathered from all parts of the
country; these created one from among themselves to be their gene-
ral, and laid close siege to the castle.
Being therefore thus unexpectedly again cooped up, Docimus, ac-
quainted with a passage under ground, where no guard was set, by a
private messenger kept correspondence with Stratonice, the wife of
Antigonus, who was not far distant from the place: and afterwards
he, with one other in his company, through this pass slipt out to her;
but, contrary to her promise, he was seized and secured. And he that
came out with him undertook to conduct the enemy into the castle,
and accordingly brought in a great number, and with them gained one
of the highest rocks within the fort.
And although Attalus, and all those with him, were far inferior in
number, yet they defended the place courageously, fighting valiantly
every day, till at length they fell into the enemy's hands, after a siege
of sixteen months,
Chap. II.
333
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. II.
Antigonus marches to the Tigris after Eumenes. Eumenes cuts off
a great many of his men there. Antigonus goes into Media.
Eumenes comes to Persepolis. The description of Persia. Peu-
cestes's great feast. Eumenes's policy. His tale of the lion,
A battle in Pureteceni, between Antigonus and Eumenes. An-
tigonus returns into Media. The story of Ceteus's two wives
striving which should be burnt. Eumenes marches to Gabene;
Cassander to Macedonia. Olympias goes to Pydna : is there
besieged. The Epirots forsake their king, and
join with Cas-
sander. Antigonus designs to surprise Eumenes, who stops his
march by a stratagem.
The last battle between them in Gabene.
Eumenes basely delivered up. Antigonus returns to Media.
The dreadful earthquakes in the country of Rhages.
1
AFTERWARDS, Democledes was chief governor at Athens, and
Caius Junius and Quintus Æmilius were consuls at Rome. At that
time was celebrated the hundred and sixteenth Olympiad, at which
Deinomenes the Laconian gained the victory. About this time An-
tigonus marched out of Mesopotamia and came to Babylon, and made
a league with Seleucus and Python, and having strengthened himself
with forces received from them, made a bridge of boats over the river
Tigris, passed over his army, and hastened away with a swift march
after the enemy. Of which Eumenes having intelligence, he sent
to Xenophilus, governor* of the citadel at Susa, not to give any
money to Antigonus, nor by any means to come out to parley with
him.;
He himself marched with the army to the Tigris, a day's journey dis-
tant from Susa, where he came into the country of the Uxians, a free
people. The river is in some places three, and in others four
furlongs broad. The depth in the middle of the channel was equal
with the height of the elephants. It runs in a current from the
mountains seven hundred furlongs, and empties itself into the Red
sea. There are many sea-fish and whales in this river, which appear
chiefly at the rising of the dog-start.
The Eumenians had the river before them for a defence, and man-
ned the bank all along from the head of the river to the sea [, with
forts every where built upon the bank, and there waited for the ene-
* Or treasurer.
+ In the dog.days: about the end of July.
* The Red sea, or Persian gull.
-
1
334
Book XIX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
my's approach. But because these forts required a great number of
men to keep them, in regard they stretched out a great length, Ea-
menes and Antigenes solicited Peucestes to send for ten thousand
archers more out of Persia; who at first refused, complaining how he
was denied to be general of the army. But afterwards, upon mature
deliberation with himself, he complied, concluding that if Antigonus
prevailed, he should lose both his province, and be in danger of los-
ing his life besides; careful, therefore, to preserve his own interest,
and hoping thereby with more ease to gain the chief command by
having more men than any of the rest, he brought ten thousand archers
more into the camp according to their desire. And though some
of the Persians were distant one from another thirty days march, yet
they had placed their guards with that art and exactness, that they
all heard the word of command in one and the same day; the rea-
son of which is worthy remark: for Persia is full of long and narrow
vallies, and is full of high watch-towers, upon which were placed some
of the inhabitants that were men of loud and strong voices: when
the voice was heard by those of the next division, they imparted it in
the same manner to the others, and they again to the rest, one after
another, till what was commanded came at length to the end of the
province.
While Eumenes and Peucestes were busy about these affairs, An-
tigonus came with his army to the king's palace in Susa, and made
Seleucus lord-lieutenant of the proviuce, and leaving with him a suf-
ficient army, ordered him to besiege the citadel, Xenophilus the trea-
surer refusing to obey his commands; but he himself marched away
with bis army against the enemy, through a hot scalding country,
very dangerous for foreign armies to pass. Therefore they were forced
to march in the night, and encamp near the river before sun-rising:
however, he could not secure himself from all the inconveniencies
and mischiefs of that country: for though he did all that was possible
for him to do, yet through the excessive heat of the season, being
about the rising of the dog-star*), he lost a great multitude of his men.
Coming at length to the river Coprates, he prepared what was neces-
sary for the passing over of his men. This river issues from a moun-
tainous country, and runs into the Tigris, and is four acres broad, and
was fourscore furlongs distant from Eumenes's camp. The stream
is so rapid and swift, that there is no passing over without boats or a
bridge. Having therefore got together a few flat-bottomed boats, in
them he put over some of his foot, ordering them to draw a trench
and cast up works to defend it, and there to attend the coming over
of the rest.
* See the foregoing page.
a
Chap. II.
335
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Eumenes having intelligence by his scouts of the enemy's designs,
passed over the bridge of Tigris with four thousand foot and thirteen
hundred horse, and found above three thousand foot and three hun-
dred horse of Antigonus's army got over*; and no less than six
thousand who were foraging up and down the country: these he sud-
denly set upon and routed, and presently put the rest to flight.
As for the Macedonians, (who stood their ground), being overpowered
by numbers, he forced them all to the river, where running head-
long into their hoats, and overcharging them, they sunk down: upon
which many of them endeavouring to swim, some few of them es-
caped, but the rest were all drowned. Others that could not swim,
(judging it more advisable to fall into the enemy's hands, than cer-
tainly to lose their lives in the river, were taken prisoners, to the
number of four thousand. Antigonus, for want of boats, was not
able to help them, though he saw such multitudes perish. Conceiv.
ing therefore that it was impossible to pass the river, he marched
back to the city of Badaca, seated, on the river Ulaie. By reason of
the vehement heat, this march was very sweltering and troublesome,
and many of the army were tired out, so that they were heartless, and
even at their wits end: but when he came to the city before men-
tioned, staying there some days, he refreshed his army. Thence he
judged it advisable to march to Ecbatana in Media, and making that
the seat of war, to take in all the higher provinces.
There were two ways that led to Media, and both were difficult:
that over the mountains was pleasant, and the high way; but scorch-
ing hot, and very long, almost forty days journey. That through
the country of the Cosseans was strait, narrow, and steep, leading
through the enemy's borders, and barren and scant of provisions,
but a short cut, and more cool; yet it was not easy for an army to
march this way, unless agreement were first made with the barbarians
who inhabit the mountains.
They have been a free people time out of mind, and inhabit in caves,
and feed upon acorns and mushrooms, and the salted flesh of wild
beasts. But he looked upon it as a dishonourable thing for him who
commanded so great an army, to court these barbarous people with
smooth words, or gain them by rich gifts. He picked out therefore
the choicest of his targeteers, and divided the archers and slingers,
and such like light-armed men into two bodies, and delivered them
to Nearchus, with command to go before him, and first secure the
straits and difficult passes. These being posted all along in the way,
he himself led the phalanx, and Python commanded the rear.
They that were sent with Nearchus had endeavoured to possess
* The river Caprares, which falls into the Pasitigris.
a
336
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
themselves of a few watch-towers; but, being hindered and pre-
vented of many, and the most necessary and commodious places,
they lost many of their soldiers, and, being set upon on every side
by the barbarians, they had much difficulty in making their way
through them. And as to those that followed Antigonus, (having
entered the straits), they fell into dangers that were inextricable: for
the natives, being well acquainted with the places, and having before
possessed themselves of the steep and craggy rocks, cast down massy
stones upon the heads of the soldiers as they passed by; and besides,
making use of showers of arrows, they so galled them, that they were
neither able (through the inconveniency of the place) to annoy their
enemies, nor avoid their shot: and in regard the passage was very
craggy and difficult, the elephants, horses, and heavy-armed men,
were involved both in toils and hazards at one and the same time,
and in no capacity to help themselves.
Antigonus being brought into these straits, now repented that he
did not follow the counsel of Python, who had advised him to have
bought his passage with money. But after the loss of many of his
men, and the rest still in imminent hazard, after nine days trouble-
some march, he came at length to the inhabited parts of Media.
One mischief after another thus falling upon the army, the intole-
rable distresses they were brought into stirred up the soldiers to cry
out against Antigonus, insomuch that they gave him very harsh and
bitter words.
For in forty days time, they had three several times been miserably
slaughtered: but by fair words, and a plentiful supply of all things
Decessary, he at length quieted them. Then he commanded Python
to go over all Media, to get together horsemen, and horses, and car-
riages, which he easily performed, the country abounding with horses
and cattle. For Python returned, bringing along with him two
thousand horsemen and a thousand horses, ready furnished, and so
many
loads of ammunition as that the whole army might be com-
pletely armed; together with five hundred talents out of the king's
treasury.
Antigonus formed the horse into regiments, and distributed the
horses among those that had lost their own, and gave the draught-
beasts freely among those that wanted them, whereby he regained the
former love of the soldiers.
In the mean time, the governors of the provinces, and captains of
the forces with Eumenes, when they heard that the enemy was in
Media, were of various opinions what to resolve upon: for Eumenes,
Antigenes, and the rest who came up from the sea-coasts, were for
returning thither again. But those who came from the higher pro-
>
Chap. II.
337
DIODORUS SICULUS.
vinces (upon the account of their friends and relations that were left
at home) were for defending those parts. The contest growing hot,
Eumenes, considering that one part of the army (which was now di-
vided into two) was not strong enough to cope with the enemy, com-
plied with the governors of the upper provinces. Decamping there-
fore from Pasitigris, he moved towards Persia, and came to the royal
seat of the kingdom, Persepolis, at the end of four-and-twenty days
march.
The country, in the first entrance into it, and as far as the Ladders,
(as they are called), is flat and low, exceeding hot, and barren of pro-
visions; but the rest is higher, of a wholesome air, and very fruitful:
wherein are many shady vallies, variety of pleasant gardens, natural
walks bounded on each side with all sorts of trees, and watered
with refreshing springs. So that those that pass this way many
times stop here and solace themselves in these pleasant places with
great delight.
Here the inhabitants brought in to Peucestes abundance of all kinds
of prey and booty, which he largely distributed among the soldiers, to
gain their favour and good will. In this tract inhabit the most war-
like of the Persians, being all archers and slingers, and is far more
populous than any of the other provinces.
When they came to Persepolis, the king's palace, Peucestes the
governor, and general of the province, ordered a magnificent sacrifice
to the gods, and to Alexander and Philip; and to that end sending al-
most over all Persia for beasts to be sacrificed, and abundance of all
other provisions necessary for a festival and public assembly, he
feasted the whole army.
In this festival the guests were placed in four rounds, including
one within another, the greatest surrounding all the rest, which was
ten furlongs in compass, and was filled with mercenaries and con-
federates.
The second round was eight furlongs, in which were placed the
Macedonian silver targeteers, and the rest of Alexander's fellow-
soldiers. The other circle was of four furlongs, and filled with in-
ferior officers, special friends, commanders, and horsemen.
That in the midst of all was two furlongs, wherein the generals,
masters of the horse, and the nobility of Persia, had their several tents
allotted them; and in the midst of them were placed the altars of the
gods, and of Alexander and Philip.
The tents were made of green boughs of trees, covered with arras,
and all sorts of tapestry hangings, Persia plentifully affording every
thing for pleasure and delight.
The rounds were at that convenient distance one from another, as
VOL. 2. No, 44.
XX
338
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that the guests found nothing of trouble or uneasiness; bat every
thing that was prepared was near at hand. All being thus gracefully
managed, with the general applause of the common soldiers, thereby
expressing how great Peucestes was in their favour and esteem, he
was suspected by Eumenes, who conceived that Peucestes did this to
ingratiate himself with the army, and thereby to gain the sovereign
command; he therefore forged a letter, by which he raised up the
spirits of the soldiers, and made them more courageous, and brought
down the haughty spirit and pride of Peucestes; but advanced his-
own reputation with the army, by the hopes of good success for the
future. The contents of the letter was this_That Olympias, with
Alexander's son, (having killed Cassander), had fully recovered the
kingdom of Macedon; and that Polyperchon, with the main power
of the king's army, and his elephants, had put over into Asia against
Antigonus, and was then in Cappadocia. This letter was written in
Syriac characters, in the name of Orontas, governor of Armenia, an
intimate friend of Peucestes. These letters passing as authentic, be-
cause of the continual correspondence between him and the lord-
lieutenants, Eumenes ordered them to be carried about, and shewn to
the captains and most of the soldiers. Hereupon the whole army
changed their mind, and all eyes were upon Eumenes, as the chief
favourite, and therefore they resolved to depend upon him, as he whose
interest in the kings would be able to advance whom he pleased, and
to punish whom he thought fit.
When the feasting was ended, Eumenes, the more to terrify them
that were regardless of his orders, and who affected the sovereign
command, called in question, in due form of law, Siburtius, the go-
vernor of Arachosia, Peucestes's special friend: for Peucestés, send-
ing away some horse into Arachosia, had secretly commanded Si-
burtius to intercept the carriages coming from thence. Whereupon
Eumenes brought him into such imminent danger, that unless he
had privately withdrawn himself, he would have been killed by the
soldiers. By this piece of policy, having terrified others, and advanced
his own honour and reputation, he put on a new face again, and so
gained upon Peucestes with smooth words and large promises, that
he became both kind and courteous to him, and cheerful and ready to
afford aid and assistance to the kings. Desiring likewise to be as-
sured of the rest of the governors, and captains by some pledges, which
might engage them not to forsake him, he pretended to want money,
and desired them to contribute, every one according to his ability, to
the kings.
Hereupon, receiving four hundred talents from among so many of
the captains and generals as he thought fit, those whom he before
Chap. II.
339
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
suspected of treachery or desertion, became most faithful attend-
ants and guards to his person, and stuck close to him in all en-
counters.
While he thus prudently managed affairs, and was providing for
the future, news was brought by some who came out of Media, that
Antigonus was marching with his army into Persia: whereupon he
moved forward, with a design to meet and engage the enemy.
The second day of their march he sacrificed to the gods, and plen-
tifully feasted the army, wishing them to continue firm and faithful
to him; but, wishing to comply with the humour of his guests, who
loved to drink freely, he fell into a distemper, which caused him to
lay by, and so hindered his march for some days.
In the mean time the army was greatly dejected, to consider that
the most expert and bravest commander of all the generals should be
now sick, at the very time (as they thought) they were even ready to
fight the enemy.
But his distemper abating, and after a little time having recovered
himself, he pursued his march, Peucestes and Antigenes leading the
van; and he himself in a litter followed after with the elephants, to
prevent disturbance by the crowd, and the inconveniency by the
etraitness of the places they were to pass.
And now the two armies were within a day's march one of the -
other, when the scouts on both sides brought an account of their ap-
proach, and what numbers they were, and ways they took. Where-
upon each party, prepared for battle: but at length they parted
without fighting; for there was a river and a deep trench between
the two armies. Buth indeed were drawn forth in battalia, but, by
reason of the badness of the ground, they could not come to action:
wherefore, drawing off three furlongs distant one from another, they
spent four days in light skirmishes, and foraging the country there-
abouts, being much in want of all things necessary. The fifth day
Antigonus, by his agents, again solicited the governors of the pro-
vinces, and the Macedonians, to desert Eumenes, and commit them-
selves to his protection. For he promised that he would leave to
every one of them their own several provinces, and would bestow
large territories upon the rest; and others he would send into their
own country, laden with honours and great rewards; and, as for
those that were willing still to bear arms, he would give them places
and posts in the army suitable to their several circumstances: but
the Macedonians would not hearken to any part of these terms, but
sent away the messengers with great indignation and threats: upon
which Eumenes came amongst them, and gave them thanks, with
commendations for their fidelity, and told them an old story, but very
1
340
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
suitable to the present occasion_That a lion falling in love with a
young lady, treated with her father to bestow her upon him in mar-
riage; who answered _That he was very willing to give the young
woman to be bis wife, but that he was afraid of his claws and teeth,
lest, when he was married, according to the nature of his kind, he
should devour the poor girl. Hereupon the lion beat out his teeth,
and tore off his claws: upon which the father, perceiving that now he
had lost whatever before made him formidable, fell upon him, and
easily cudgelled him to death. And that now Antigonus was acting
a part not much unlike this: for he courted them with fair promises,
till such time as he could get the army into his power, and then he
would be sure to cut the throats of the commanders. This fine story,
thus handsomely told, was highly applauded by the army; and here-
upon he dismissed them.
The next night some deserters from Aptigonus came in, and gave
intelligence, that he had ordered his army to march at the second
watch. Hereupon Eumenes, upon serioas thoughts, and musing on
what his designs might be, at length bit upon the truth of the mat-
ter, that the enemy's purpose was to march to Gabene, which was a
country three days march distant, then untouched, abounding in corn
and forage, sufficient to supply the greatest army plentifully with all
sorts of provisions; and besides, it was a place of great advantage, full
of rivers and deep ravins that were impassable Contriving there
fore to prevent the enemy, he put in execution the like project;
and sent away some of the mercenaries, (whom he hired with mo-
ney), under colour of runaways, with orders to inform Antigonus,
that Eumenes would fall upon his camp that night. But Eumenes
himself sent off the carriages before, and commanded the soldiers
with all speed to eat their suppers, and march: all which was pre-
sently despatched.
In the mean time Antigonus, upon the intelligence received from
the deserters, resolved to fight the enemy that night, and therefore
put a stop to his march, and placed his army in order of battle.
During which hurry of Antigonus, and while he was preparing to
meet his enemy, Eumenes stole away with his army, and made to-
wards Gabene before him. Antigonus for some time waited with
his soldiers at their arms; but receiving intelligence by his scouts,
that the army of Eumenes was gone, he perceived that a trick was
put upon him. However, he went on with what he had before de-
signed; and, to that end, giving the word of command to his army
to march, he posted away with that haste and speed, as if he had been
in a pursuit.
But when he understood that Eumenes had got six hours march
1
1
1
Chap. II.
341
DIODORUS SICULUS.
9
a
before him, and so perceiving that he was not able at so great a dis-
tance to overtake him with his whole army, he contrived as follows:
he delivered the rest of the army to Python, willing that he should
come softly after him; and he himself posted away with the horse.
About spring of day he came up with the rear of the enemy's army,
as they were marching down a hill; upon the top of the moun-
tain he made a halt, and there presented himself to the view of
the enemy.
Eumenes, at a convenient distance, seeing the enemy's horse, con-
ceived that the whole army was near at hand, and therefore made a
stand, and drew up his men in order of battle, as if they should forth-
with engage. In this manner these two generals pat tricks one upon
another, as if they were striving which should outwit the other, there-
by sbewing, that all their hopes of victory lay and were grounded up-
on their own stratagems.
By this means, therefore, Antigonus put a stop to the enemy's
march, and gained time for his army to come up to him; which at
length joining with him, he drew up in battalia, and in that order
marched down the hill in a terrible manner upon the enemy. The
whole army (with those brought in by Python and Seleucus) amounted
to abuve eight-and-twenty thousand foot, eight thousand five hun-
dred horse, and sixty-five elephants. Both the generals ranged their
armies in an array that was strange and unusual, as if they strove
which should excel the other even in this piece of art also. In the
left wing Eumenes placed Eudamus, the captain of the elephants
from India, who had with him a body of a hundred and fifty horse:
in front of these were drawn up two squadrons of choice horse armed
with lances, fifty deep, and were all joined to those who were placed
upon the rising ground near the foot of the mountain. Next to them
was drawn up Stasander, with nine hundred and fifty of bis own
horse. After these, he ordered Amphimachus, lord-lieutenant of
Mesopotamia, who had under his command six hundred horse,
Next to them were drawn up the horse from Arachosia, lately com-
manded by Siburtius, but, because he was then fled, the command
was given to Cephalus. Close to these were five hundred horse
from Paropamisus, and as many Thracians from the upper colonies.
.
In the van of all these stood five-and-forty elephants, drawn up
in the form of a half moon, lined with as many archers and slingers
as was thought fit.
Then he drew up his main body of foot in a phalanx in this man-
ner: at the farthest point were placed above six thousand foreign
soldiers, then five thousand out of several countries, armed after the
manner of the Macedonians; after these were drawn up no more
342
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
than three thousand Argyraspides, but men never conquered, and for
their valour dreaded by the enemy. And lastly, after all, three thou-
sand targeteers of the life guard; which, together with the Argyras-
pides, were commanded by Antigenes and Tautamus. And in the
van of this phalanx stood forty elephants, lined with light-armed
men. Next to the phalanx in the right wing he drew up eight hun-
dred of Carmanian horse, under the command of Tlepolimus, the
governor of that province; and after them nine hundred who were
called Companions. Then the squadron of Antigenes and Peucestes,
being three hundred in one troop. In the utmost part of the wing
was placed Eumenes's own regiment, consisting of as many horse;
and before these was a forlorn-hope, made up of Eumenes's servants,
placed in two bodies, each consisting of fifty horse. There were
likewise two hundred horse drawn up in four squadrons, and placed
in the flank at a distance from the main wing, to be a guard to that
part. And besides all these, he placed three hundred horse, culled
out of all the provinces for strength and speed, to be a guard to the
rear of his squadron: and in the van of this wing thus arrayed were
placed forty elephants, for the better defence of the whole. Eume-
nes's whole army amounted to five-and-thirty thousand foot, six
thousand and one hundred horse, and one hundred and fourteen
elephants.
Antigonus observing from the top of the hills how the army of the
enemy was drawn up, drew up his likewise so as might be most con-
venient to the present circumstances. For taking notice that his
enemy's right wing was very strongly guarded with horse and ele-
phants, he fronted them with the choicest of his own horse, who
being in sinall parties, at a considerable distance one from another,
might charge in manner of a running fight, wheeling off one after
another, and so still renew the fight by fresh men. And by this
means the strength of that part of the enemy's army, wherein they
placed their greatest confidence, was wholly eluded. For in this
phalanx he had placed about a thousand archers and lanceteers on
horseback, out of Media and Armenia, who had ever been used to this
way of charging by turns. Next to them were drawn up two thou-
sand and two hundred Tarentines, who came up with him from the
sea-coasts, who were men very expert in laying ambuscades, and
contriving other stratagems of war, and had a great respect and kind-
ness for him: a thousand, likewise, out of Phrygia and Lydia; fifteen
hundred under the command of Python; and four hundred spearmen
led by Lysanias. After all these followed those called the Anthippi*,
and then out of the higher provinces, to the number of eight huns
* Anthippi: i. e, enemies or opposers of the horsemen.
Chap. II.
343
DIODORUS SICULUS.
dred. And of this body of horse was the left wing completed and
made up, all under the command of Python. In the main battle, of
foot were placed in the front wine thousand foreigners; next to them
three thousand Lycians and Pamphilians, and above eight thousand
out of divers nations, armed after the Macedonian manner; and in
the rear were the Macedonians, to the number of eight thousand,
which Antipater had formerly sent as recruits when he took upon
him the government of the kingdom. In the right wing of horse,
close to the right of the phalanx of foot, were first placed five hun-
dred mercenaries; next to them a thousand Thracians, and as many
confederates; and close after them were a thousand called Compa-
nions. These were all commanded by Demetrius the son of Anti-
gonus, which was the first time he appeared in arms to assist his
father: in the utmost part of the wing were placed three hundred
horse, with which Antigonus himself engaged. This squadron con-
sisted of three troops of his servants, and as many of others, drawn
up in equal distances one from another, supported by a hundred
Tarentines. Round this wing were placed thirty of the strongest of
his elephants, in form of a half-moon, interlined with light-armed
mon: many of the other elephants he placed in the front of the
phalanx of foot, and a few with some horse in the flank on the left.
The army arrayed in this manner, he marched down upon the enemy
in an oblique order: for he ordered the right wing to be stretched
out far in length, and the left to be much contracted, designing with
this to make a running fight, and to engage hand to hand with the
other.
And now the armies drew near one to the other; and signal of
battle being given on both sides, shouts echoed one to another, and
the trumpets sounded a charge. And first the horse with Python fell
on, although they had no forlorn either of men or elephants for a firm
defence; yet overpowering the enemy in number and swiftness, made
use of that advantage: but looking upon it not safe to encounter the
elephants in the front, they wheeled about, and poured in showers of
shot upon the enemy in the flank, and with little or no prejudice to
themselves, by reason of their speed, and nimbleness of their horses,
for they sorely galled the enemy, who were neither able to fall upon
the assailants, on account of the weight of their arms, nor in a capa-
eity to avoid them as occasion required. Hereupon Eumenes seeing
how the right wing was distressed by multitudes of archers on horse-
back, sent for some of the swiftest horse from Eudamus, who com
manded the left wing; and by this body of horse brought in from the
other wing, (though it were but small), he made so fierce a charge
upon the enemy, being seconded by his elephants, that he easily put
a
344
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the Pythonians to flight, and pursued them as far as to the foot of the
mountains.
In the mean while the foot fought stoutly a long time together;
at length, after many falling on both sides, the Eumenians routed
them by the valour of the silver shields*. For though they were now
very old, yet by frequent use of their arms in many battles, they so
excelled all others, both as to courage and skill in their weapons, that
none were able to stand before them. And therefore at this very
time, though they were only three thousand, yet they were the chief
strength and support of the whole army.
When Antigonus perceived that his left wing was routed, and the
whole phalanxt put to flight, though he was advised (seeing that part
of the army with him was yet entire) to retreat to the mountains, and
receive in again those that were fled, yet he would not hear of it; but
prudently making use of the present opportunity, both saved his own
men, and gained likewise the advantage.
For the Argyraspides, with Eumenes and the rest of the foot, hav-
ing put the enemy to flight, continued their pursuit to the foot of the
mountains: upon which Antigonus, through an open passage made
in the enemies main body, with a party of horse fell upon the flank
of Eudamus's regiments, which were in the left wing, and by this
sudden and unexpected charge put them to flight; and after the
slaughter of multitudes, sent away some of the swiftest of his horse
to recal his own men that were before fled, and so caused them to
rally at the foot of the mountains. And Eumenes also perceiving
the flight of his men, hastened to the relief of Eudamus, and recalled
by sound of trumpet, those of his that fled. And now the stars be-
gan to appear, when the generals having recalled their fying men,
on both sides prepared for battle afresh; such was the heat and vigour
both of the officers and common soldiers. The night was very clear
and serene, and the moon at full: and the armies being about four
acres distant one over against the other, the clattering of arms, and
the peighing of horses seemed on both sides as if they had been in
the midst of one another. It was now midnight when they had drawn
off about thirty furlongs from the place of battle where the dead lay,
and by reasou of the troublesomeness of the march, and the toils and
grievances of the fight, with the want, likewise, of provisions, both
sides were but in a bad condition: therefore they were forced to leave
off fighting, and encamp, Eumenes had a design to have marched
back to the slain, in order to have buried them, as a sign of his being
absolute victor, but the army refused, and all were instant with loud
cries to return to their carriages, which were then at a great distance
* Argyraspides.
+ Battalion of foot.
Chap. II.
345
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
>
from them, so that he was forced to submit. For seeing there were
so many that affected the chief command, he had no power to move
the army by threats, nor saw at that time any convenient opportunity
to gain upon them that were obstinate by arguments and entreaties.
But Antigonus, on the contrary, was an absolute general, without any
dependance upon the popularity, and therefore forced the soldiers to
encamp near the dead bodies; and so gaining the privilege of bury-
ing the dead, he raised a doubt who was victorious, saying _That he
who had power to bury his dead, was ever to be esteemed conqueror
of the field.
In this battle there were killed on Antigonus's side three thou-
sand and seven hundred foot, and fifty-four horse, and above four
thousand wounded. On Eumenes's party were slain five hundred
and forty foot, but very few horse, and above nine hundred hurt.
Antigonus, after the battle was over, perceiving that the spirits
of his soldiers were very low, resolved, with all the haste he could,
to remove far off from the enemy's camp, and that his forees might
march the more readily, he sent away the wounded men and heavy
baggage to a town near at hand. Then having buried the dead, about
break of day (detaining with him the herald that was sent to him by
the enemy to beg the bodies of the dead), even at that very hour he
commanded the soldiers to dine. At night he discharged the herald,
and gave leave to come and bury the dead the next day. He himself
presently at the first watch of the night moved with his whole army,
and by continued and long marches got a long way off from the
enemy, to a country untouched, where he had plenty of provisions
for the refreshing of his army: for he marched as far as to Gamarga
in Media, a country under the command of Python, abounding in all
things for the maintaining of the greatest armies. Eumenes having
intelligence by his scouts that Antigonus was gone, would not
follow after him, both because his army was in want of provisions,
and in other bad circumstances, as likewise because he had a great
desire to inter his dead in the most solemn manner le possibly
could.
Upon which occasion a strange accident occurred at this time,
very unusual and dissonant from the laws of the Grecians: for there
was one Ceteus, who commanded them that came out of India, and
fought with great resolution, but died in this battle; he left two
wives behind him, who followed him all along during the campaign:
one he had but lately married, the other had been his wife for some
years before; and both loved their husband exceedingly. It had
been an antient custom in India for men and women to marry with
VOL. 2, No. 44.
YY
346
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
their own mutual liking, without consulting the advice of their
parents. And in regard that in those former times young people
would rashly marry one another, and often repent after, as being
deceived in their choice, many wives were corrupted, and through
their inordinate lusts fell in love with other men; and because they
could not with their credit and reputation leave them they first chose,
they would often poison their husbands; to the more ready effecting
of which the country did not a little contribute, by bearing many and
divers sorts of poisonous plants, some of which ever so little bruised and
mixed either in meat or drink, certainly kill the party. This wicked
art growing still more and more prevalent, and many being destroyed
by this means, and though several were punished for these pieces of
villany, yet others would not be reclaimed, nor restrained from the
like practices: another law therefore was made _That wives should
be burnt together with their dead husbands, except they were with
child, or had born children; and that she who would not observe the
common law of the land, should remain a widow, and as one con-
victed of that impiety, should be excluded from all sacred rites, and
all other benefit and privilege of the laws. This being thus esta-
blished, henceforward this wickedness of the wives was changed into
a contrary practice. For seeing that every wife, to avoid that insuf-
ferable disgrace, was voluntarily to die, they became not only careful
to preserve the health, and provide for the well-being of their hus-
bands, as that which was likewise their own preservation; but the
wives strove one with another, as who should gain the highest pitch
of honour and reputation. An example of which fell out at this
time. For although by the law one only was to be burnt with the
husband, yet at the funeral of Ceteus, both struve which should die,
as for some honourable reward of their virtue: whereupon the matter
was brought before the generals for their decision. The younger
declared, that the other was with child, and therefore her death could
not satisfy the law: the elder pleaded, that it was a greater piece of
justice, that she who was before the other in years, should be prefer-
ed before her in honour: for in all other cases the constant role is
to yield more honour and respect to the elder than to the younger.
The captains being informed by the midwives that the elder was with
child, preferred the younger before the other: upon which she lost
her cause, went out weeping and wailing, renting her veil in pieces,
and tearing her hair, as if some sad and dreadful news had been told
her. The other, rejoicing in the victory, made forthwith to the
funeral pile, crowned by the women of her house with attires called
mitres*, and by her kindred brought forth most riehly adorned, as to
* Attires woinen used to wear, with labels hanging down.
Chap. II.
347
DIODORUS SICULUS.
some nuptial festival, setting forth her praises all along as they went,
in songs fitted for that occasion.
As soon as she came to the pile she threw off her attire, and distri-
buted them amongst her servants and friends, leaving these behind
her, as tokens of remembrances for them that loved her. Her attire
was multitudes of rings upon her fingers, set with all manner of
precious stones of divers colours. Upon her head were a great
number of little golden stars, between which were placed sparkling
stones of all sorts. About her neck she wore abundance of jewels,
some small and others large; increasing by degrees in bigness as they
were put on one after another. At length she took leave of all her
.
family and servants, and then her brother placed her upon the pile,
and to the great admiration of the people, (who flocked thither to
see the sight), with an heroic courage she there ended her life.
The whole army solemnly in their arms marched thrice round the
pile before it was kindled: she in the mean time (disposing of her-
self towards her husband's body) discovered not by any shrieks or
otherwise, that she was at all daunted at the noise of the crackling
fames, so that the spectators were affected, some with pity, and
others with admiration, and extraordinary commendation of her re-
solution. However there are some who condemn this law as cruel
and inhuman.
After the funeral was over, Eumenes marched from Pareteceni to
Gabene, which being yet untouched, was in a condition to supply
the army with all things necessary, which was distant from Anti-
gonus's army (going through the countries inhabited) five-and-
twenty days journey; but passing through the deserts, (where there
is no water), it is but nine days journey; being thus far distant one
from another, he there wintered, and so gave his army time to refresh
themselves.
As for the affairs of Europe, Cassander, while he lay at the siege of
Tegæa, hearing of the return of Olympias into Macedonia, and of the
death of Eurydice and king Philip, and what was done to the sepul-
chre of Iolas his brother, agreed with the Tegæans, and marched
with his army into Macedonia, leaving his confederates in great
trouble and perplexity. For Alexander the son of Polyperchon was
then entered Peloponnesus, and ready to set upon the cities with a
great army. And the Ætolians, to ingratiate themselves with Olym.
pias and Polyperchon, seized upon the strait passes at Pylæ, and
blocked up the passage to stop Cassander in bis march: but he per-
ceiving that it was very difficult for him to force his way through
those narrow straits, by the help of some ships and several boats out
348
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of Eubea and Locris, passed over into Thessaly. And hearing that
Polyperchon lay with his army in Perrhæbia, he ordered away Callas
his general, with some forces to fight him. In the mean time Dinias
being sent away to secure the straits of Perrhæbia, possessed himself
of those passes before the forces of Olympias could reach them.
As soon as Olympias heard that Cassander was entering Macedonia
with a great army, she created Aristonus general, and commanded
him to fight Cassander. She herself, taking along with her the son
of Alexander, and Roxana his mother, and Thessalonica the daughter
of Philip the son of Amyntas, Deidamia the daughter of Æacidas king of
Epirus, and sister to Pyrrhus, (who afterwards made war upon the
Romans), and the daughters of Attalus, and other kindred and emi-
nent relations, entered into Pydna, so that a great throng of people,
useless and unserviceable for war, attended upon her. Neither was
there provision in that place sufficient for such a multitude, to hold
out any long siege. All which disadvantages, though they were clear
evidences of the greatness of the danger, yet she was resolved to stay
here, expecting many Greeks and Macedonians to come in to her
assistance by sea.
There were with her some horse from Ambracia, and many of the
troops of the household; and the rest of Polyperchon's elephants :
the others had been before taken by Cassander, at his former irrup-
tion into Macedonia; who now having recovered the passes at
Perrhæbia, so as that he had his way open to Pydna, begirt the
town round with a mud wall from sea to sea; and sent for ship-
ping, and all sorts of weapons and engines of battery from his
confederates, with a design to block up Olympias both by sea and
land.
But when he had intelligence that Æacidas king of Epirus was
coming with a strong army to the relief of Olympias, he delivered
some forces to the command of Atarchias, with orders to meet the
Epirots, who presently executing what he was commanded, possessed
himself of the passes into Epirus, so that Æacidas was wholly defeated
in his design.
For the Epirots were forced against their wills to the expedition
into Macedonia, and therefore mutinied in the camp: however, Æa-
cidas, desirous by any way possible to relieve Olympias, cashiered all
those that favoured not his desigu; taking in those who were willing
to run the same risk with himself; he was indeed very forward to en-
gage, but had not yet force enough; for the party that stuck to him
was very small.
In the mean tiine the Epirots that were sent away into their own
Chap. II.
349
DIODORUS SICULUS.
country revolted from the king; and his people, by a common decree
of the state, banished him the kingdom, and confederated with Cas-
sander; like to which never before happened in Epirus, from the time
that Neoptolemus the son of Achilles reigoed there. For the kingdom
ever descended from the father by right of succession to the son, till
this time.
When Cassander was thus supported by the confederacy of the
Epirots, and had sent Lyciscus both as general and viceroy into
Epirus, they in Macedonia, who before were at a stand whether
they should confederate with Olympias or not, now, (seeing no hopes
remaining for the retrieving her affairs), joined with Cassander. So
that now the only prop remaining to rely upon for relief was Poly-
perchon,-and this was presently in a strange manner shattered and
broken in pieces; for when Callas, who was sent as general by
Cassander, sat down with his army near to Polyperchon in Perrhæ-
bia, he so corrupted most of his soldiers with large bribes, that very
few remained, especially of those that were looked upon to be most
faithful: and thus low were the affairs of Olympias sunk in a very
short time.
As for the affairs of Asia at this time, Antigonus then wintering in
Gadamalis, otherwise Gadarlis, looking upon his army too weak for
the enemy, contriving how to fall upon them unawares, and to outa
wit them. Eumenes's soldiers were so scattered and dispersed in
their winter-quarters, that some of them were six days march distant
one from another. But Antigonus judged it not advisable to march
through the countries that were inhabited, both in regard the
journey would be very long and tedious, and likewise presently
known to the enemy, but conceived it much more for his advantage
to lead his army through the dry and barren deserts, though it
were far more troublesome, for that it was much the shorter cut; ·
and by that means his march would be secret, and so he might
fall upon the enemy suddenly and unexpectedly, as they lay dis-
persed and scattered in their quarters, never dreaming of any such
thing.
Upon these considerations he commanded his soldiers to be ready
for a march, and to prepare for themselves ten days victuals, such
as need not the fire. He himself gave it out that he would march
through Armenia: but on a sudden, contrary to the expectation of
his whole army, in the depth of winter*, he marched towards the
deserts. In their march he ordered fires to be made in the day, but
to be put out in the night, lest that any seeing them far off from the
• The winter tropic,
350
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
.
mountains, might discover his approach to the enemy: for the
desert was almost entirely plain and champaign, surrounded with
many high hills, from whence it was easy to discover the fires
from a great distance off. But when the army had spent five days
in this tedious journey, the soldiers, for very cold, as for other
necessary uses, fell to making of fires by night as well as by
day; which some of the inhabitants of the wilderness espying,
they immediately, on the very same day, sent away messengers
upon dromedaries, to give intelligence thereof to Eumenes and
Peucestes. This beast will commonly run fifteen hundred fur-
Jongs* a day
Peucestes being informed that the enemy's army was seen balf
way of their march, began to think of running away as far as he
couldt, being afraid the enemy would be upon him before he could
get the forces together, from every quarter where they then lay dis-
persed. Eumenes perceiving the fright he was in, bid him be of
good heart, and continue upon the edge of the wilderness, for he
had found out a way that Antigonus should not come into those
parts in three or four days. And having done that, they should be
able within that time easily to get all their forces together; and so
the enemy being tired out, and starved for want of provisions, would
all fall into their hands. All wondered at this strange undertaking,
and every one was earnest to learn what it was that should give a
stop to the enemy. Eumenes hereupon commanded all the captains
and soldiers that were then at hand, to follow him with a great num-
ber of urns full of fire, and then chose out some of the highest ground
in the couutry, which looked every way towards the wilderness, and
there marked out several places, within the compass of seventy
furlongs, and allotted to every captain a post distant about twenty
cubits one from another, with command to kindle a fire in the night
in every place; and at the first watch to make the greater fires, as
if they were then still upon the guard, and going to supper and
refreshing themselves; at the second, that the fires should be less;
and at the third to be left nearly out and extinct; that so at a dis-
a
tance it might seem as if the army were certainly there encamped
together.
The soldiers observing the order given them, some of the inlia-
bitants of the mountains over against them (friends to Python, the
governor of Media) perceived the fire, and supposing the army was
really there encamped, ran down into the plain, and informed both
* Two hundred miles, or thereabouts.
+ To the utmost bounds of their winter quarters.
Chap. II.
351
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Python and Antigonus; who being amazed, (and as it were thunder-
struck at this strange and unexpected news) made a halt, and
consulted with those that brought them the news, what course was
best to be taken. For men that were tired out, and in want of every
thing that was necessary, to engage with an enemy prepared and
furnished with plenty of all sorts of provisions, was alledged to be a
desperate and hazardous adventure. Concluding therefore that they
were betrayed, and that the forces of the enemy were drawn together,
(upon intelligence given them of what was designed), it was re-
solved not to march forward, but turn aside to the right; and so
the army moved into both parts of the countries inhabited, to the
end that the soldiers might refresh themselves after their toilsome
march.
In the mean time, Eumenes having by this stratagem thus de-
luded the enemy, got all his army together from all parts where
they were in their winter-quarters, and fortifying his camp with a
rampart and a deep trench, he there received his confederates as
they came in to him, and plentifully furnished his camp with all things
necessary.
But Antigonus, after he had marched through the desert, receiving
intelligence from the inhabitants that the rest of Eumenes's forces
had almost all come to him, but that his elephants, coming out of
their winter stations, were not far off, with a very slender guard,
sent out two thousand horse lanceteers, two hundred Tarentines,
and all his light-armed foot to intercept them: for by setting upon
them as they were without a sufficient guard, he hoped he inight
easily make himself master of them; and so deprive the enemy
of the main strength of his army. But Eumenes fearing the worst
that might lappen upon that account, sent away (for a further
guard) five hundred of his best horse, and three thousand light-
armed foot.
As soon as Antigonus's soldiers came in sight, the commanders of
the elephants drew them into a square, in the form of a tile, and
placed the carriages in the middle, and so marched on. They were
supported in the rear with no more than four hundred horse. The
enemy then pouring in all their force upon them, and pushing on
still with great violence, the horse in the rear being overpowered,
made away. The masters of the elephants stood for some time,
galled with darts and arrows on every side, not able to damage or touch
the enemy. And now, when they were just ready to give up all, the
Eumencans unexpectedly arrived, and extricated them out of all their
dangers. A few days after, the armies encamped within forty furlongs
352
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
of each other; and now being about to lay all at stake, both sides
prepared for action.
Antigonus drew up his horse in two wings, and committed the
left to Python, and the right to his son Demetrius, where he himself
intended to charge; the foot was in the middle battle, and all the
elephants he placed in front of the whole army, interlined with light-
armed men. His whole army was twenty-two thousand foot, and nine
thousand horse, besides those that were listed in Media; and sixty-five
elephants.
When Eumenes understood that Antigonus had placed himself in
the right wing, with the best of his horse, he himself fronted him
with the choicest of his own, in the left; for here he placed most
of the governors of the provinces, with the best of that horse which
they themselves brought into the field; and with these he ventured
himself.
In this wing too was Mithridates, son of Ariobarzanes, descended
from one of those seven Persians who slew Smerdis, one of the Magi,
a man of exemplary valour, and brought up in the feats of war from
his very youth. In front of this wing he placed sixty of his best
elephants, drawn up in form of a half-moon, interlined with light-
armed men.
As to the foot, the targeteers were placed in the front, then the
Argyraspides, and in the rear all the foreigners, and those that were
armed after the manner of the Macedonians, and so many elephants
and light armed men were placed in front of the main battle of foot
as was thought sufficient. In the right wing were drawn up such
horse and elephants as were judged the most weak and feeble of all
the rest, over which Philip was appointed commander, with orders
to retire leisurely as he fought, and diligently to observe the event of
the other side.
Eumenes's army amounted to thirty-six thousand and seven hun-
dred foot, six thousand and fifty horse, and a hundred and fourteen
elephants.
A little before the battle, Antigenes, general of the Argyraspides,
had sent a Macedonian horseman to the enemy's phalanx, with
command to ride up as close to them as he possibly could, and pro-
claim with a loud voice what he had ordered him. · Hereupon, when
he was come up within hearing of that part of the army where
Antigonus's Macedonian phalanx was drawn up, he cried out with a
loud voice, thus-Oh ye villains! ye fight against your fathers, who
ventured their lives, and performed all those poble acts with Philip
and Alexander, whom you shall shortly experience to be men worthy
Chap. II.
353
DIODORUS SICULUS.
age,
.
a
those kings, and those former conquests! -_The youngest of the Argy-
raspides at that time were at least three score years
of but most of
the rest were seventy, and some older; all of them for strength and
skill in their weapons unconquerable: for continual practice of their
arms had made them expert and daring.
Proclamation being made, as we have before said, there were many
harsh words and discontented speeches cast out in Antigonus's army.
That they should be forced to fight against their own countrymen,
and with men that were so much older than themselves. In Eume-
nes's army, on the other hand, they were continually crying out,
while the army was drawing up, to be led out against the enemy.
Eumenes seeing the alacrity of the soldiers, lifted up the ensigo of
battle, upon which forthwith the trumpets sounded a charge, and the
whole army set up a shout for the onset. The elephants in the first
place fought one with another; then the horse charged on both
sides. The field was very large, sandy, and waste, so that so much
dust was raised by the trampling of the horses, as that a man could
not see what was done, though but at a small distance from bim:
which Antigonus observing, immediately sent away some Median
horse, and a body of Tarentines, to set upon the baggage of the
enemy.
For he hoped by reason of the dust that was raised (as the thing in
truth proved) that they would not be discerned, and that if he got
possession of the carriages, he should easily bring the whole army into
his power. Hereupon those that were sent forth secretly slipping by
the enemy's wing, set upon the pages, scullion boys, and others that
were with the baggage, and about five furlongs distant from the place
of battle.
There they found a multitude of useless and unserviceable rabble,
and a very small guard in the place, so that they were presently put
to fight, and the rest all fell into the enemy's hands. In the mean
time, Antigonus charging the enemy with a strong body of horse, so
terrified Peucestes, governor of Persia, that he, with his horse, got
out of the dust, and drew fifteen hundred more after him. But
Eumenes, though he was left but with a very few in the outskirts of -
the wing where he was, yet accounted it base to flag or fly; judging
it more honourable to be faithful to his word, in the quarrel of the
kings, and to die in an honest and just cause with resolution, made a
fierce charge upon Antigonus; so that now there was a sharp dispute
between the horse; where the Eumeneans excelled the others in
heat and resolution, but the Antigonians them in number; and many
fell on both sides. At which time the elephants fighting one with
another, the leader on Eumenes's side engaging with one of the
Vol.2, No. 44.
ZZ
354
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
stoutest of the other, was there slain. Hereupon, Eumenes perceiv-
ing his horse to be worsted on every hand, withdrew with the rest of
the liorse out of the fight, and passed over to the other wing, and
joined himself to those with Philip, whom he had ordered to make
a leisurely retreat. And thus ended the engagement between the
horse.
But as to the foot, the Argyraspides (or silver shields) in a full body
fiew with that violence upon the enemy, that they killed some upon
the spot, and put the rest to flight, for they were not to be withstood;
who, though they engaged with the enemy's main battle, yet they
signalized both their valour and dexterity to that degree, that they
killed above five thousand without the loss of oue man, and put
the whole foot to flight, though they were far more in number than
themselves.
When Eumenes understood that all the carriages were taken,
and that Peucestes was not far off with the horse, he endeavoured to
rally them all again, and to try their fortune in a second engagement
with Antigonus: for he concluded, if he prevailed he should not only
recover his own carriages, but likewise possess himself of the enemy's:
but Peucestes would not hear of fighting any more, but got farther
off, so that Eumenes was forced to yield the day.
Then Antigonus dividing his horse into two bodies, he himself with
one sought how to entrap Eumenes, observing which way he made;
the other be delivered to Python, with orders to fall upon the Argy-
raspides, who were then forsaken by their horse; who forthwith setting
upon them, as he was commanded, the Macedonians drew up in form
of a square, and got safe to the river, exclaiming against Peucestes,
as the cause of the routing of the horse.
When Eumenes came up to them in the evening, they consulted
together what was then best to be done. The governors of the
pro-
vinces were for returning with all speed into the higher provinces ;
but Eumenes was for staying where they were and fighting, in regard
the enemy's main battle was broken and cut off, and that they were
then equal in horse on both sides. But the Macedonians seeing that
they had lost their carriages, wives and children, and all that was dear
to them, declared they would neither do the one nor the other. And
so'at that time they parted without agreeing in any thing. But after-
wards the Macedonians secretly corresponding with Antigonus, seized
and delivered Eumenes into his hands. And having received their
carriages, and faith taken for security, they all marched away toge-
ther; whose example the governors of the provinces, and most of the
other captains and soldiers followed, forsaking their general, chiefly
consulting their own safety and preservation.
Chap. II.
355
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Antigonus having thus strangely and unexpectedly possessed him-
self both of Eumenes and his whole army, seized upon Antigenes,
captain of the Argyraspides, and put him alive into a coffin, and burnt
him to ashes. He likewise put Eudamus to death, who brought the
elephants out of India; and Celbanus, and some others; who appeared
against him on all occasions. But Eumenes he put in prison, and took
time to consider how to dispose of him; for he had in truth a great
desire to have gained so good a general to his own interest, and to have
obliged him upon that account; but because of the great kindness and
strict correspondence which passed between him and Olympias, and
the kings, he durst not absolutely rely upon him; for but a while
before, though he had delivered him out of the straits he was in at
Nora in Phrygia, yet he shortly after fell in and sided with the kings;
and therefore upon the pressing importunities of the Macedonians he
put him to death. But in respect of his former familiarity with him,
he caused his body to be burnt, and his bones to be put into an urn,
and delivered to his nearest friends. Amongst those that were
wounded and prisoners was Hieronymus of Cardia, historiographer,
who having been ever in great esteem with Eumenes during his life,
after his death found great favour also with Antigonus.
Antigonus returning into Media with his whole army, spent the
rest of the winter in a town not far from Ecbatana, where the palace-
royal of that province stood. He distributed his army here and there
all over the province, and especially in the country of Rhages; so
called from the calamnities it had miserably suffered in former times.
For being heretofore full of rich and populous cities, such terrible
earthquakes happened in those parts, that both cities and inhabitants
were swallowed up together, not one left, and the very face of the
country was so changed, that new rivers and ponds appeared in the
room of the old.
356
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICUIUS,
CHAP. III.
The inundations at Rhodes. Antigonus kills Python, getting
him into his power by dissimulation. Then he marches into
Persia. Revolters from Antigonus cut off in Media.
He di-
vides the provinces of Asia, and contrives to destroy all the Ar-
gyraspides. Gets great treasure in Susa. Cassander besieges
Olympias in Pydna: the great distress to which it was reduced.
Amphipolis surrendered to Cassander. He kills Olympias. Mar-
ries Thessalonices: builds Cassandria. Imprisons Roxana and
her son Alexander. His expedition into Peloponnesus against
Alexander the son of Polyperchon. The history of Thebes.
Cassander rebuilds Thebes.
ABOUT this time happened a flood near the city of Rhodes, which
destroyed many of the inhabitants. The first flood did little preju-
dice, because the city was then but newly built, and far larger in
compass; but the second was more mischievous, and destroyed mul-
titudes. The last happened at the beginning of the spring, accom-
panied with violent storms of rain, and hail-stones of an incredible
bigness; for they were a mina in weight, and sometimes more, so
that they not only beat down houses, but killed many men. And in
regard Rhodes was built in the form of a theatre, and that the water
ran for the most part into one place, the lower parts of the city were
presently filled with water: for, the winter being now looked upon
to be over, no care was taken to cleanse the channels and aqueducts;
and the pipes likewise in the walls were choaked up; so that the
waters flowing in altogether on a sudden, all the ground about the
Digma*, (as it is called), and the temple of Bacchus, was filled with
water; and it now rising up like a standing pond to the temple of
Æsculapius, all were in a consternation, and could not agree toge-
ther what should be done, in order to their preservation. Some were
for making to the ships, and others for hastening to the theatre.
Some now almost surrounded with the evil that threatened them, in
great terror and amazement climbed up to the top of the highest al-
tars, and others to the top of the pedestals of the statues. The city
being in this danger to be overwhelmed and ruined, with all its in-
habitants, on a sudden they were unexpectedly delivered: for the
• Some monument in the town, in memory of some remarkable event,
either good or bad.
Chap. III,
357
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
wall burst asunder, making a large breach, and the water, which be-
fore stood in a flood, made its way through, and ran with a violent
current into the sea, and so every one presently had free passage to
his own house.
It was of great advantage to these distressed people that this
inundation was in the day-time: for most of the citizens ran to the
higher parts of the city for shelter. And another advantage was,
that the houses were not built of tile, but of stone; so that those
who got to the house-tops escaped without any great damage: how-
ever, there perished in this common calamity above five hundred
souls; and some of the houses were borne down to the ground, and
others much damaged and shaken. And in this danger was Rhodes.
Antigonus, while he wintered in Media, discovered Python plot-
ting to draw over the soldiers, then in their winter-quarters, partly
by bribes, and partly by fair promises, to his own interest, and to
make a turn and defection in the army. But Antigonus covered and
concealed his design, and pretended to give no credit to the in-
formers, but to chide them as those that contrived only to set him
and Python at variance together. In the mean time, he caused it to
be noised abroad _That he intended to leave Python, with a copsi-
derable army for his defence, lord-lieutenant of the higher provinces;
and he wrote likewise to Python, and desired him to hasten to him
with all speed, that, after they had consulted together on some
weighty affairs, they might forthwith march away into the Lesser Asia.
Thus he managed his business, thereby to remove all ground of sus-
picion, and to get the poor man into his hands, upon an expectation
and hopes to be left governor of those provinces: for it was a diffi-
cult matter to take one by force who had been in such great repute
with Alexander, and for his valour advanced by him to places of ho-
nour; and who, being then governor of Media, was a help and sup-
port to the whole army.
Python was at that time in the farthest parts of all Media, in his
winter-quarters, and had now corrupted many, who had promised to
join with him in the defection. His friends likewise acquainting him
by their letters with Antigonus's purpose, gave him an expectation
of mighty things: and thus deceived, he went to Antigonus; who,
having now seized his prey, brought him before a council of war, even
of his own confederates, where he was easily convicted, and forthwith
had his head cut off.
Hereupon Antigonus, gathering all his army together, committed
the government of Media to Orontobates, a Median born; but made
Hippostratus general of the army, who had three thousand five hun-
dred foreign foot-soldiers under his command. He himself, taking
358
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
with him the body of his army, went to Ecbatana, where receiving
five thousand talents of massy silver, he marched into Persia; and
it cost him twenty days mareh before he arrived at the capital city
Persepolis.
In the mean time, while Antigonus was on his march, Python's
friends, who were concerned with him in the conspiracy, (the chief
of whom was Meleager and Menetas), and other well-wishers of
Eumenes and Python, who were scattered abroad into corners, met
together, to the number of eight hundred horse; and in the first place
wasted the territories of the Medes, who refused to join with them.
Then, receiving intelligence where Hippostrates and Orontobates lay
encamped, they broke in upon them in the night, and were not far
from effecting what they designed; but being overpowered by num-
bers, and having only enticed a few of the soldiers to join with them,
they were forced to retreat; yet some of the nimblest of them (all
being horsemen) made many sudden incursions upon the country,
and caused a great consternation and confusion amongst them; but
they were at last enclosed in a place compassed about with rocks, and
were there all killed or taken. But Meleager, and Cranes the Me-
dian, and some of the better sort of them, stood it out to the last, and
died with their swords in their hands. And this was the condition of
the conspirators in Media.
As for Antigonus, when he came into Persia, the people honoured
him as a king, and he that was now undoubtedly absolute lord of all
Asia. There calling together a council of his nobility, he propounded
to them the matter concerning the government of the provinces: in
which consultation they left Carmania to Tiepolemus, and Bactria to
Stasanor; for it was no easy matter to expel them, having gained the
hearts of the people by their fair deportment, and likewise were as-
sociated with potent confederates. Eritus he sent into Aria; who
dying shortly after, was succeeded by Evagoras, a man of wonderful
valour and prudence. Oxyartes likewise, the father of Roxana, was
permitted to enjoy the province of Paropamisus, as he did before; for
neither could he eject him without a long expense of time and a very
great army.
But he sent for Siburtius, a well-wisher of his, out of Arachosia,
and bestowed upon him the government of that province, and gave
him the most turbulent of the silver shields, under colour of serving
him in the war, but in truth with a design to have them all cut off;
for he gave him private instructions to employ them in such services
as that by degrees they might all be destroyed. Amongst these were
those that betrayed Eumenes, that vengeance might in a short time
after overtake these perfidious villains for their treachery against their
Chap. III.
359
DIODORUS SICULUS.
general. For princes, by reason of their great power, may reap ad-
vantage by the wicked acts of others; but private men who are the
actors, for the most part, are by those means brought into miserable
disasters.
Antigonus moreover, finding that Peucestes was much beloved
in Persia, made it one of his first pursuits to deprive him of that go-
vernment. At which all the natives greatly repined; and a chief
man amongst them, called Thespias, spoke openly against it, and
said _That the Persians would be governed by no other man but
Peucestes: whereupon Antigonus slew Thespias, and made Ascle-
piodorus governor of Persia, and committed to him a considerable
army; and he held on Peucestes with vain hopes of conferring upon
him higher preferments elsewhere, until he had drawn him quite out
of the country
While Antigonus was on his way to Susa, Xenophilus, who had
the keeping of the king's treasure there, being sent by Seleucus, went
and met him at Pasitigris, and offered him his service in whatsoever
he pleased to command him. Antigonus received him very gra-
ciously, and seemed as if he honoured him above all the friends he
had, fearing lest he might alter his mind, and keep him out when he
came thither. But when he came into the castle of Susa, he pos-
sessed himself of it, and there seized upon the golden vine, and store
of other such rarities, to the value of fifteen thousand talents: all
which he turned into ready money, besides what he made of crowns
of gold, and other presents and spoils taken from the enemy, amount-
ing to five thousand talents more, and a like quantity collected out of
Media, besides the treasure had from Susa; so that in the whole he
heaped together five-and-twenty thousand talents. And thus stood
the affairs of Antigonus at that time.
Since we have treated of the affairs of Asia, we shall now pass over
into Europe, and relate what was done there concurring and cotem-
porary with the former. Cassander having shut up Olympias ia
Pydoa in Macedonia, could not assault the walls by reason of the
winter season; but he blocked up the city with his forces on every
side, and drew a mud-wall from sea to sea; and, to prevent all re-
lief by sea as well as by land, he guarded the mouth of the harbour
with his own shipping: insomuch that their provisions being almost
spent, the besieged were reduced to that extremity of want, that they
were nearly starved; for they were brought to that strait, that every
soldier was allowed but five chenices * of bread-corn every mouth,
and the elephants were fed with saw-dust. At last they killed the
draught-beasts and horses for meat.
* About seven quarts and half a pint.
a
360
Book XIX,
DIODORUS SICULUS,
While the city was in this state, and Olympias earnestly expecting
foreign aid, the elephants pined away for want of food. And the
horsemen that were foreigners almost all died, having no proportion
of bread allotted them, and many of the other soldiers fared no better.
Some of the barbarians, (liunger overcoming what nature would have
otherwise dreaded and abhorred), fed upon the carcasses of the
dead.
The town being now filled with dead bodies, the colonels and cap-
tains of the king's guard buried some, and threw others over the walls;
insomuch, as not only the queens, (who were bred up delicately all
their days), but even the soldiers, who were always inured to hard-
ships, could not endure the sight nor stink of the carcasses.
And now the spring came on, and the famine increased every day,
whereupon most of the soldiers came up in a body, and entreated 0.
lympias to suffer them to leave the place because of the scarcity, who
(not being able to supply them with bread, nor in a condition to
raise the siege), let them go; and they were all kindly received by
Cassander, and disposed of into several towns and cities round about.
For he hoped that the Macedonians coming to understand by them
how weak Olympias was, would conclude her affairs desperate and
without remedy. And he did not miss the mark in his conjecture;
for they who were just now sending relief to the besieged, presently
altered their purpose, and sided with Cassander. Only Aristonus and
,
Monimus, of all the Macedonians continued firm and faithful to
Olympias, of whom Aristonus was governor of Amphipolis, and the
other of Pella. At length Olympias perceiving that many went over
10 Cassander, and those who were her friends were not able to help
her; without further delay got ready a galley of five oars on a bank,
with a design to rescue herself and all her kindred out of the present
danger: but being discovered to the enemy by some of the deserters,
Cassander sailed to the place and seized the vessel.
Whereupon
Olympias looking upon herself in a desperate condition, sent an
herald to Cassander to treat upon terms of pacification; but he in-
sisting upon the delivering up of herself to his mercy, with much ado
she at length prevailed only for the preservation of her person. Be-
ing therefore now possessed of the city, he sent some away to summon
Pella and Amphipolis.
Monimus the governor of Pella hearing how things went with 0-
lympias, presently surrendered; but Aristonus at first resolved to
hold out and maintain the cause of the kings, in regard he had a
strong garrison, and had been then lately prosperous and successful.
For a few days before he had fought with Cratevas, one of Cassander's
captains, and cut off many of the enemy, and drove Cratevas himself,
Chap. III.
361
DIODORUS SICULUS.
with two thousand of his men, into the city Bedys in Bisaltia, and
there besieged him, took him, and disarmed him, and then, upon mu-
tual pledges of faith given and taken, discharged him. Being en-
couraged upon this account, and not knowing but that Eumenes was
still living, and concluding that he should be sure of aid and relief
from Alexander and Polyperchon, he refused to surrender Am-
phipolis.
But as soon as he received letters from Olympias, (whereby she
commanded him, upon the faith of his former engagement, to restore
the city), he observed her coinmands, and delivered it up, upon as-
surance of his own preservation. But Cassander, perceiving that he
was a man of great interest, by reason of the honours conferred upon
him by Alexander, and determining to take all such out of the way as
might be in a capacity to make any disturbance, by the help of Cra-
tevas's kindred, he put him also to death. Then he incited the re-
lations of such as were put to death by Olympias to prosecute her in
the general assembly of the Macedonians, who thereupon very readily
complied with what they were desired to do; and, though she her-
self was not then present, nor had any person there to plead her
cause, yet the Macedonians condemned her to die. Cassander there.
upon sent some of his friends to Olympias, and advised her to get
out of the way, and promised to procure for her a ship, and to cause
her to be conveyed safe to Athens. And this he did not for her pre-
servation, but that, as one conscious of her own guilt by her fight, it
might be judged a just vengeance upon her if she was cut off as she
was on her voyage: for he was afraid as well of the fickle disposi-
tion of the Macedonians, as of the dignity of her person. But Olym-
pias refused to fly, and said She was ready to defend her cause be-
fore all the Macedonians.
Cassander therefore, fearing lest the people, calling to mind the
worthy acts and kindnesses of Philip and Alexander towards the whole
nation, should change their minds, and so take upon them to defend
the queen, sent to her a band of two hundred soldiers well armed and
accoutred, with orders to despatch her forthwith; who rushing on a
sadden into the palace, as soon as they saw her, (in reverence to her
person), drew back, without executing what they were cominanded.
But the kindred of those she had put to death, both to ingratiate
themselves with Cassander, and likewise to gratify their own revenge
for the death of their relations, cut her throat, she not in the least
crying out in any womanish terror or fear to spare her. In this
manner died Olympias, the greatest and most honourable woman in
the age wherein slre lived, daughter of Neoptolemus, king of Epirus;
VOL. 2. No, 44.
1
AAA
362
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
1
sister of Alexander*, who made the expedition into Italy; wife of
Philip, the greatest and most victorious prince of all that ever were
before in Europe; and lastly, the mother of Alexander, who never
was exceeded by any for the many great and wonderful things that
were done by him.
Cassander now seeing all things go on according to his heart's
desire, in his hopes and expectations was already possessed of the
kingdom of Macedon: he therefore now married Thessalonica,
daughter of Philip, and sister of Alexander by the same father, am-
bitious to be related in affinity, and esteemed as one of the royal fa-
mily. He built likewise Cassandria, (calling it after his own name),
in Pellene, and peopled it with inhabitants drawn out of the cities
of the Chersonesust, and out of Potidæa, and many other neigh-
bouring cities, and placed there likewise those Olynthians that were
left, of whom there were still a considerable number. To this
city he joined a large and rich territory, and made it his earnest care
to advance the glory and splendour of this place; so that it grew up
in a short time to that degree of power, as to excel all the cities of
Macedonia.
Cassander likewise, resolving to cut off all the posterity of Alex-
ander, (that there might be none of his line left to succeed in the
kingdom), purposed to kill the son of Alexander, and Roxana his
mother. But for the present, being willing first to observe what
people's discourses were concerning the cutting off of Olympias, and
having as yet no certain account how things went with Antigonus,
he committed Roxana and her son close prisoners to the castle at
Amphipolis, under the charge of Glaucias, then by him made go-
vernor, and one of his friends, in whom he placed great confidence.
He likewise took away from the young king those children that were
bred
up with him as his companions, and ordered that he should be
no longer attended as a king, nor regarded otherwise than as a pri-
vate person.
And now ruling the kingdom in all things as king, he royally and
sumptuously interred Eurydice and Philip, the late king and queen, at
Ægis; and Cinna, whom Alcetas had put to death, gracing the dead
with the solemnity of funeral sports and plays.
Then he raised soldiers out of Macedonia for the expedition re-
solved upon into Peloponnesus. While he was employed in these
affairs, Polyperchon, who was then besieged in Naxos, in Perrhæbia,
when he heard of the death of Olympias, in despair of retrieving his
• Sister of Alexander, tbat is, Pyrrhus,
+ Tbe Chersonesus of Pellene ix Thrace,
Chap. III.
363
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
affairs in Macedonia, with a few in his company, broke out of the
city, and passed through Thessaly, together with Æacidas, and came
into Ætolia, where he judged he miglit safely abide, and observe how
things went, because there was a good understanding between him
and that nation.
But Cassander having now raised a considerable army, marched
out of Macedonia with an intent to drive Alexander the son of Poly-
perchon out of Peloponnesus: for he with his army was the only
enemy left, and had possessed himself of many convenient posts and
towns there. Through Thessaly he marched without any opposition;
but found the pass at Pylæ guarded by the Etolians, whom having
with much difficulty beaten off, he came into Bæotia, where, getting
all the Thebans together that were remaining from all parts, he set
about re-peopling of Thebes, conceiving that now he had a fair op-
portunity put into his hands for the rebuilding of that city, famous
both for its renowned actions, and the antient stories concerning it.,
And by so good a work he concluded he should reap the fruit of an
immortal fame and glory.
This city had felt very many changes and turns of fortune, and
those to the utmost extremity, being sometimes in danger of being
razed to the ground. Of which to say something briefly will not be
any foreign digression.
· After Deucalion's flood, when Cadmus had built the citadel, called
Cadmea after his own name, the people called Spartans, or Sparsans,
flocked thither in droves, called so by some because they flocked to-
gether from all places; others called them Thebigens*, because the
natives of Thebes were forced away by the flood, and dispersed here
and there up and down in the country. When these were again re-
turned, they were afterwards expelled by force of arms by the En-
chelensians, and then even Cadmus himself was forced to fly to the
Illyrians. After this, when Amphion and Zethus ruled, and there
first built the city, (as the poett says),
Who first Thebes' walls with seven gates did raise.
The inhabitants were again expelled when Polydorus, the son of
Cadmus, returned into the kingdom, where all things were then
carelessly managed, by reason of the sad condition of Amphionſ for
the loss of all his children.
Then again in the time of the reign of his posteritys, (when all
the country was called Bæotia, from one Bæotus, the son of Mela-
• Born at Thebes.
+ Homer.
His seven sons and seven daughters by Niobe were killed by Jupiter And Diana
with arrows --Paus, in Baot, Diod. lib. 4.
The posterity of Folydorus,
364
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
nippe and Neptune, who reigned there), the Thebans were expelled
the third time by the Epigoni* of Argos, when they took the city by
force. Those that escaped of them who were expelled fled to Alal-
comenæ and the mountain Tilfossius; but, after the death of these
Argives, they returned into their own country.
In the time of the Trojan war, when the Thebans were in Asia,
those who stayed at home, together with other Baotians, were ex-
pelled by the Pelasgians: and after they had endured many and various
calamities in the course of near four generations, (according to the
oracle relating to the crowst) they returned, and inhabited Thebes.
From this time this city continued in a state of prosperity nearly
eight hundred years. And the Thebans at the beginning had the chief
command over all the rest of their country.
Afterwards when they attempted to be sovereign lords of all Greece,
Alexander the son of Philip took it by storm, and razed it to the
ground. In the twentieth year next after, Cassander, to make him-
self famous, and advance his own reputation, so far prevailed with the
Baotians for their concurrence, as that he rebuilt the city, and
restored it to those Thebans that were then remaining of the old
stock. Many of the Greek cities afforded their assistance to the re-
building of this place, out of compassion to the distressed condition
of the Thebans, and the antient fame and glory of the city. The
Athenians built the greatest part of the walls, and others assisted ac-
cording to their several abilities; and contributions were sent not
only from all parts of Greece, but from some both in Sicily and Italy.
And thus the Thebans came to be restored to the antient seat of their
ancestors. Then Cassander moved with his army towards Pelopon-
nesus; and when he found that Alexander the son of Polyperchon
had fortified the isthmus with strong guards, he turned aside to Me-
gara; and there be fitted out some boats, and in them transported
his elephants to Epidaurus, and the rest of his army in other ships.
Thence coming to Argos, he forced them to quit their confederacy
with Alexander, and join with him. Afterwards he brought over to
him all the cities and towns, with the territories, of Messenia, except
Ithome; and Hermonides he took in upon articles of agreement: but
upon Alexander's marching down to fight, he left two thousand men
at Geraniaf, near the isthmus, under the command of Molycus, and
returoed into Macedonia.
• The posterity of the seven captains who besieged Thebes.
+ This story of the crows is—That the oracle said, the Baotians should be expelled
when they saw white crows: which happened afterwards by playful boys painting crows
white, and then letting them go. A little while after, the Bævtians were ejected by the
Æolians. See the Annot. upon Erasm. Adag. (Ad Corvos.) p. 374.
| Gerania, a hill near the isthmus, ip Megara.
Chap. IV.
365
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. IV.
Antigonus's army feasted by Seleucus in Babylon. Quarrels with
Seleucus, who flies to Ptolemy, and is kindly received. Ptolemy,
Seleucus, Cassander, and Lysimachus, join against Antigonus.
They send ambassadors to him, who winters in Cilicia. He goes
into Phænicia, and there builds ships; besieges Tyre. The
praise of Phylla, wife of Demetrius. Aristodemus raises forces
for Antigonus in Peloponnesus. The acts of Ptolemy, one of
Antigonus's captains. Antigonus's policy. Tyre delivered.
The agreement of Ptolemy's captains, and the rest at Cyprus.
The acts of Seleucus. A fleet comes to Antigonus from the
Hellespont and Rhodes. Things done in Peloponnesus. Cas-
sander's acts there and in Greece. The great victory by sea and
land obtained by Polyclitus, Seleucus's lieutenant: he is rewarded
by Ptolemy. The acts of Agathocles in Sicily. The Romans
make war against the Samnites.
AT the end of the former year, Praxibulus was created chief magis-
trate at Athens, and Spurius Nautius and Marcus Popilius bore the
office of consuls at Rome; at which time Antigonus left one Aspisa,
a native, governor of Susiana. He himself resolving to carry away
with him all the money, prepared carriages and camels for that pur-
pose to bring it down to the sea-side; and so having it along with
him, marched with his army towards Babylon, which he reached in
two-and-twenty days march; where Seleucus, the governor of the
provinces, received him with royal presents, and feasted the whole
army. But when Antigonus demanded au account of the revenue,
be told him_He was not bound to give any account of that province
which the Macedonians had bestowed upon him as a reward of his
service in Alexander's life-time. The difference growing wider and
wider every day, Seleucus, remembering Python's fall, was thereupon
the more afraid, lest Antigonus should catch an opportunity to put
him also to death. For he seemed to have a design to cut off (as soon
as he possibly could) all men in power, and such as were in a capa-
city to struggle for the chief command: whereupon, for fear of the
worst, he forthwith made away with fifty horse only in his company,
iutending to go into Egypt, to Ptolemy: for his kindness and cour-
teous behaviour towards all that came to him for protection and shelter
366
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
was praised in every place. When Antigonus came to understand
this, he rejoiced exceedingly, in that he was not forced to destroy his
friend and potent confederate, but that Seleucus, by his own voluntary
banishment had seemed to deliver up the province of his own accord,
without a stroke struck.
Afterwards the Chaldeans came to him, and foretold that if Seleucus
got absolutely away, he should be lord of all Asia, and that in a battle
between them Antigonus himself should be killed. Whereupon
being sorry that he had let him go, he sent some away to pursue him;
but having followed him some litile way, they returned as they went.
Antigonus was wont to slight these kind of divinations in other men,
but at this time he was so amazed and affrighted with the high esteein
and reputation of these men, that he was very much disturbed in his
thoughts: for they were judged to be men very expert and skilful,
through their exact and diligent observation of the stars: and they
affirm that they and their predecessors have studied this art of astro-
logy for above twenty thousand years. And what they had foretold
concerning Alexander's death, if he entered into Babylon, was found
true by late experience. And in truth, as those predictions concern-
ing Alexander came afterwards to pass, so what they now said
selating to Seleucus was likewise in due time accomplished. Of
which we shall treat particularly when we come to the times proper
for that purpose.
Seleucus, when he was got safe into Egypt, was entertained by
Ptolemy with all the expressions of kindness and affection that might
be; where he bitterly complained against Antigonus, affirming that
his design was to expei all persons of eminent quality out of their
provinces; and especially such as were in service under Alexander;
which he supported with arguments from Python's being put to
death, and Peucestes being deprived of the government of Persia,
and from the usage he himself had lately met with; and all these
though they had never done any thing to deserve it, but rather upon
all occasions performed all the acts of kindness and service to him
that was in their power, and this was the reward they obtained for
their services. He reckoned up, likewise, the strength of his forces,
his great treasure, and his late successes, which so puffed bim
up, that he was in hopes to gain the sovereign command over all the
Macedonians.
Having by these arguments stirred up Ptolemy to make war
against him, he sent some of his friends over into Europe, to pre-
vail with Cassander and Lysimachus, with the like arguments, to
appear in arms against Antigonus; which orders being forth with
Chap. IV.
367
DIODORUS SICULUS.
executed, foundations were laid for a mighty war, which afterwards
took place.
Antigonus, upon many probable conjectures, conceiving what was
Seleucus's design, sent anıbassadors to Ptolemy, Cassander, and Ly-
simachus, to desire them that the antient friendship might be pre-
served and maintained amongst them. And then, having made
Python, who came out of India, lord-lieutenant of the province of
Babylon, he broke up his camp, and marched towards Cilicia. As
soon as he came to Mallos*, he distributed his army into winter-
quarters, about the month of Novembert: and he received out of the
treasury in the city of Quinda, ten thousand talents, and eleven thou-
sand talents out of the yearly revenues of that province: so that he
was very formidable both in respect of his great forces and the vast-
ness of his treasure. And now being removed into the Upper Syria,
ambassadors came to him from Ptolemy, Cassander, and Lysimachus,
who being introduced as he sat in council, demanded all Cappadocia
and Lycia to be delivered up to Cassander: Phrygia, bordering upon
the Hellespont, to Lysimachus; all Syria to Ptolemy; and the pro-
vince of Babylon to Seleucus; and all the common stock of money
which he had incroached upon since the battle with Eumenes, to be
shared equally amongst them; which if he refused, then they were
to let him know, that their masters intended, with their joint forces,
to make war upon him. Whereunto he answered roughly_That
he was now making a war upon Ptolemy; and thereupon the am-
bassadors returned, without any effect of their embassy: and upon
this answer, Ptolemy, Cassander, and Lysimachus, entered into a
league amongst themselves, and gathered their forces together, and
made it their business to provide arms, and all other things necessary
for the war.
And now Antigonus perceiving how many great and potent adver-
saries had confederated against him, and what a storm was ready to,
fall upon him, sought the alliance and confederacy of other cities,
nations, and princes; and to this purpose despatched Agesilaus to
the king of Cyprus, Idomineus and Moschion to Rhodes, and one
Ptolemy, his own brother's son, with an army, to raise the siege of
Amisus, in Cappadocia, and to drive out those that were sent thither
by Cassander. He commanded him likewise to go to the Hellespont,
and fall upon Cassander, if he attempted to pass over out of Europe
into Asia. He also sent away Aristodemus the Milesian, with a thou-
sand talents, with orders to enter into a league of amity with Alexander
and Polyperchon, and to hire soldiers and make war upon Cassant
• In Cilicia, † After the setting of Orion

368
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and he himself disposed beacons and couriers throughout all Asia,
which was entirely at his command, hereby to give and get knowledge
of all things that passed, and to manage his affairs the more
expeditiously.
Having taken this order, he marches into Phenicia to provide a
fleet; for at that time the enemy had the command of the sea, being
possessed of abundance of shipping, when he himself had not one.
Encamping near to Tyre, designing to besiege it, he sent for the
petty kings of Phænicia, and governors of Syria, and treated with
them to join him in the building of ships, because all the ships that
belonged to Phænicia were then with Ptolemy in Egypt. He also
gave them orders to bring him, with all speed, four millions and five
hundred thousand bushels of wheat; for to so much came the yearly
expense of his army. Then he got together hewers of timber, sawyers,
and ship carpenters from all parts, and caused timber to be brought
down from Mount Libanus to the sea side, employing therein eight
thousand men to work, and a thousand beasts for carriage. This
mount runs through Tripolis, Byblia, and Sidonis, and abounds in
most beautiful tall cedars and cypress trees. He appointed three
arsenals in Phenicia, one at Tripolis, another at Byblia, and the
third at Sidon; a fourth he had in Cilicia, whither timber was
brought from mount Taurus; and a fifth in Rhodes, where the inha-
bitants suffered him to build ships of timber, conveyed thither at his
own charge.
While Antigonus was thus employed, and lay encansped by the
sea-side, Seleucus came with a fleet of a hundred sail out of
Egypt, quick sailers, and royally furnished, and in a scornful man-
ner skirred under the noses of them, which not a little troubled the
minds of his new associates, and those that joined with him in
the carrying on of the work. For it was very apparent, that
the enemy now being masters at sea, would be sure to waste and
spoil those who, out of kindness to Antigonus, had joined with their
adversaries.
But Antigonus bid them be of good cheer, for before the end
of summer, he said, he would be at sea with a fleet of five hundred
sail.
Agesilaus, in the mean time returned from his embassy out of
Cyprus, and brought intelligence that Nicocreon, and the most potent
kings of that island, had already joined Ptolemy; nevertheless, that
Citticus, Lapithius, Marius, and Cyrenites, would side with him:
whereupon he left three thousand men, under the command of
Andronicus, to maintain the siege against Tyre, and he himself
Chap. IV.
369
DIODORUS SICULUS.
marched with the rest of the army against Gaza and Joppa, which
stood out against him, and took them by force; and such of Pro-
lemy's men whom he found there, he took and distributed among
his own regiments, and placed garrisons in both those cities, to keep
them in oljedience. Which done, he returned to his standing camp
about Tyre, and prepared all necessaries for a siege against it. At
the same time Aristo, who was intrusted by Eumenes to carry Cra-
terus's bones, delivered them to Phila to be buried, who was married
first to Craterus, and at that time to Demetrius, the son of Antigo-
pus, who was a woman of excellent parts and prudence; for by her
prudent behaviour and carriage towards every soldier in the army,
she was able to qualify and moderate those that were most turbulent,
and she put forth the daughters and sisters of those that were poor,
at her own charge, and prevented the ruin of many that were falsely
accused. It is reported, that Antipater her father (who was the most
prudent prince that governed in his age) was used to consult with
Phila his daughter in the most weighty affairs, while she was yet but
a girl. But the prudence of this woman will more fully appear in the
following narration, and when things tended to a revolution, and
the fatal period of Demetrius's kingdom. And thus stood the affairs
of Antigonus and Phila at this time,
Amongst the captains sent away by Antigonus, Aristodemus passed
over to Laconia, and, having got leave of the Spartans to raise sol-
diers, got together eight thousand out of Peloponnesus; and, upon
conference with Polyperchon and Alexander, joined them both in a
firm league of amity with Antigonus, and made Polyperchon general
over the forces in Peloponnesus, but prevailed with Alexander to pass
over into Asia to Antigonus.
Ptolemæus, another of bis captains, going into Cappadocia with an
army, and there finding the city of Amisus besieged by Asclepiodo.
rus, a captain of Cassander's, raised the siege, and secured the place;
and so, having sent away Asclepiodorus, packing up certain condi-
tions, recovered that whole province to Autigonus; and, marching
thence through Bithynia, came upon the back of Zibytes, king of the
Bithynians, whilst he was busy in besieging two cities at once, that
of the Assarenians, and the other of the Chalcedonians, and forced
him to raise bis siege from both; and then, falling to capitulations
both with him and the cities that were besieged, after hostages re-
ceived, removed thence towards Ionia and Lydia, because Antigonus
bad written to 'im to secure that coast with all possible speed, hav-
ing intelligence that Seleucus was going into those parts with bis
feet; whither indeed he came, and besieged Erythræ: but, hearing
of the enemy's approach, left it, and went away as he came. Mean-
Vol. 2. No. 45.
вBB
370
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
while Alexander, the son of Polyperchon, came to Antigonus, who
made a league with him; and then, calling a general council of the
army and the strangers resident there, declared unto them how Cas-
sander had murdered Olympias, and how villainously he had dealt
with Roxana and the young king, and that he had forced Thessaloni-
ca to marry him, and that it was very clear and evident that he as-
pired to the kingdom of Macedonia. Moreover, that he had planted
the Olynthians, the most bitter enemies of the Macedonians, in the
city called after his own name_That he had rebuilt Thebes, which
was razed by the Macedonians. Having thus incensed the army,
he made and wrote an edict _That Cassander should be considered as
an open enemy, unless he razed the two cities, released the king and
Roxana his mother, and returned them safe to the Macedonians; and
lastiy, unless he submitted to Antigonus, as general and sole protector
of the kingdom, and freed all the Greek cities, and withdrew all the
garrisons out of them.
When the army had approved of this edict by their suffrages, he
sent couriers away to publish it in all places: for he hoped that by
this means all the Grecians, in expectation of having their liberties
restored, would be his confederates, and readily assist him in the
war, and that all the governors of the higher provinces, who before
suspected him, as if he designed to deprive the posterity of Alexan-
der of the kingdom, (now that it clearly appeared that he took up
arms in their behalf), would observe all his commands of their own
accord.
Having despatched all these matters, he sent back Alexander with
five hundred talents into Peloponnesus, with his hopes raised, in ex-
pectation of mighty concerns: and he himself, with shipping from
Rhodes, and others he had lately built, set sail for Tyre; where, be-
ing now master at sea, he so blocked it up for thirteen months toge-
ther, that no supply of victuals could be brought thither, and there-
by reduced the inhabitants into such great distress, that at length
(upon suffering the soldiers to march away with some small things
that were their own) the city was surrendered to him upon terms,
and he placed a garrison in it for its defence.
In the mean time Ptolemy, hearing what a declaration Antigonus
with the Macedonians had made concerning the liberty of the Gre-
cians, made the like himself, as desirous that all the world should
take notice that he was no less zealous for the liberty of Greece than
Antigonus was: for both of them, well considering of what great
moment it was to their affairs to gain the good will of the Grecians,
strove one with another which should oblige them most by acts of
grace. Then he joined to his party the governor of Caria, who was
Chap. IV.
371
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a man of great power, and had many great cities under his command.
And, though he had before sent three thousand soldiers to the kings
in Cyprus, yet he hastened away many more, to reduce those who had
there sided against him. Those sent were ten thousand, under the
command of Myrmidon, an Athenian born, and an hundred sail of
ships, commanded by Polyclitus; and the general over all he made
his brother Menelaus.
These coming into Cyprus, joined then with Seleucus and his fleet,
and in a council of war advised what course was fit to be taken.
The result of which was, that Polyclitus with fifty sail should pass
into Peloponnesus, and there should make war upon Aristodemus,
Polyperchon, and his son Alexander: that Myrmidon should go
with an army of foreigners into Caria, there to help Cassander a-
gainst Ptolemy, a captain of Antigonus, who pressed hard upon him;
and that Seleucus and Menelaus, staying in Cyprus, should bear up
Nicocreon the king, and the rest of their confederates, against their
enemies.
Having thus therefore divided their forces, Seleucus went and took
Cyrinia and Lapithus; and, having drawn over Stasiecus, king of the
Malenses, to his party, he forced the prince of the Amathusians to
give him hostages for his fealty for the time to come. As for the
city Citium, (seeing that it would come to no agreement with him),
be set about besieging it with his whole army.
About the same time came forty ships out of the Hellespont and
Rhodes, under the command of one Themison, their admiral, to An-
tigonus; and after them came Dioscorides, with fourscore more;
and besides these, Antigonus had a navy of his own newly built ia
Phænicia, to the number of an hundred and twenty ships, with those
that he left at Tyre; so that he had in the whole two hundred and
forty men of war, of which there were ninety of four tier of ours, ten
of five, three of nine, ten of ten, and thirty open gallies.
Antigonus dividing this navy into squadrons, sent fifty of them in-
to Peloponnesus, and the rest he committed to Dioscorides, bis own
brother's son, with this charge _That he should guard the seas, and
help his friends as their occasion required, and that he should gain
unto his party such of the islands as hitherto stood out against him.
And in this posture stood the affairs of Antigonus.
And now, having related the things done throughout all Asia, we
shall give a particular account of the affairs of Europe.
Apollonides, being made commander of the Argives by Cassander,
in the night broke into Arcadia, and surprised the city* of the Stym-
phalians. And, while he was absent, some of the Argives (enemies
• Stymphalus, acar the Stymphalian Lake.
372
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
to Cassander) corresponded with Alexander, the son of Polyperchon,
and promised to deliver up the city* into his hands : but Alexander
being too slow, Apollonides came to Argos before him, and surprised
five hundred of the conspirators that were in a senate in the Pryta-
neumt, and kept them in, and burut them there alive; most of the
rest he banished, and some few more he took and put to death.
Cassander, having intelligence that Aristodemus was arrived in
Peloponnesus, and that he had listed there great numbers of sol-
diers, in the first place sought to draw off Polyperchon from Anti-
gonus; but not being able to prevail, he marched with an army
through Thessaly, and came into Baotia; where, having assisted the
Thebans in raising of their walls, he passed into Peloponnesus, and,
having first taken Cenchræa, he spoiled and harassed all the territory
of Corinth. Then he took two castles by storm, and, upon condition
of future faith and allegiance, dismissed all the garrison soldiers that
were placed there by Alexander. Afterwards he besieged Orcho-
menus, and, being let into the town by Alexander's enemies, he put'
a garrison into the city: those that sided with Alexander took sanc-
tuary in Diana's temple, whom he gave up to the citizens, to do with
them as they thought fit; whereupon the Orchomenians drew them
all out of the temple by force, and, against the common laws of Greece,
put them all to death.
Cassander went thence into Messenia, but, finding the city strongly
garrisoned by Polyperchon, he did not think fit for the present to
besiege it, but marched into Arcadia, where he left Damides gover-
nor of the city, and returned to Argolides, and there celebrated
the Nemæan games, and returned into Macedonia. When he was
gone, Alexander with Aristodemus lay before the cities in Pelopon-
nesus, to expel the garrisons of Cassander, and endeavoured all he
could to restore the cities to their liberties: which coming to the
ears of Cassander, he sent to him Prepelaus, to work upon him to de.
sert Antigonus, and enter into a league of friendship and amity with
himself, promising, that if he would do so, he would give him the
sovereign command of all Peloponnesus, and create him general of
the army, and would advance him to high places of honour and pre-
ferment. Alexander, seeing that he was now likely to attain that
for which from the beginning he made war upon Cassander, entered
into a league with him, and so was made general of all the forces in
Peloponnesus.
Argos.
+ A public place wbere the great men used to sacrifice, or a place where a court was
held belonging to the senate.
Stymphalus.
Argia.

Chap. ID.
373
DIODORUS SICULUS.
In the mean time Polyclitus, Seleucus's lieutenant, sailing from
Cyprus, came to Cenchræa, where, hearing of the defection of Alex-
ander, and finding no enemy there to encounter, he changed his
course, and set sail for Pamphylia; and from thence arriving at
Aphrodisiades in Cilicia, he there understood that Theodotus, admi-
ral of Antigonus's navy, would pass by from Patara, a port in Lycia,
a
with the Rhodian fleet, furnished with mariners out of Caria; and
that Perilaus with a land-army coasted along by the shore, for the
defence of the fleet, if necessary: in this case he outwitted them
both; for he landed his men in a place out of view, where the land-
army must of necessity pass, and himself with the fleet went and
lay behind a foreland, waiting for the coming of the enemy; there
the enemy's foot fell into an ambush, and Perilaus himself was
taken prisoner, and all his men either killed or taken. The fleet at
sea, seeing the land-army engaged, hastened to their relief; but then
Polyclitus coming upon them in this confusion, with his ships drawn
up in a line of battle, put them easily to flight; so that Polyclitus took
all their ships, and most part of the men in them, and amongst the
rest Theodotus himself, their admiral, sorely martyred with wounds,
of which be shortly after died.
Polyclitus, having succeeded so well on all hands, sailed back first
to Cyprus, and then to Pelusium*, where Ptolemy richly rewarded him
for so great a service, and promoted him to a far higher dignity and
place of honour than he was in before, as the author of so great a
victory; but released Perilaus and some other prisoners, whom Anti-
gonus desired by a messenger sent to him for that purpose. And
then himself, going to a place called Ecregma, came to a parley with
Antigonus; but Antigonus refusing to grant him what he demanded,
he left him and returned.
Having now given an account of the affairs of the European Greeks,
both in Greece and Macedonia, we shall pass over to the parts lying
towards the west.
Agathocles, prince of Syracuse, having possessed himself of a cas-
tle' belonging to the Messenians, promised to restore it upon receiv-
ing of thirty talents of silver; which when the Messenians had paid,
he not only broke his faith, but endeavoured to have seized upon
Messina itself: for, being informed that part of the walls were fallen
down, he sent a party of horse by land from Syracuse, and he himself
in some ships called Hemioliast, went by sea, and arrived in the
night close under the walls of the city; but the Messenians, coming
to understand his design beforehand, wholly defeated bim in what he
bad contrived: however, he came to Mylas, and, upon laying siege
• In Egypt.
+ Barks or frigates,
374
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
to the castle, had it delivered up to him, and then returned to Syra-
cuse. In harvest-time he made a second attempt upon Messina,
and, encamping near the city, made continual assaults, but was not
able to effect any thing considerable: for many exiles had flocked
into this place from Syracuse, who, both for the sake of their own
preservation, and out of hatred to the tyrant, fought most coura-
geously.
About this time came ambassadors from Carthage, arguing the case
with Agathocles, and complaining of the breach of articles; and,
making peace with the Messenians, they forced the tyrant to restore
the castle*, and then sailed back into Africa.
After which Agathocles went to Abecenus, one of his confederate
cities, and there he put to death forty, whom he looked upon to be
his enemies.
In these times the Romans were at war with the Samnites, and
took Ferentum by storm; and the inhabitants of Nuceria (called Al-
faterna) were, by the persuasions of some persons, prevailed with to
desert the Romans, and join in league with the Samnites.
CHAP. V.
霍
​The acts of Aristodemus, Antigonus's general in Peloponnesus.
The Dimeans in Achaia seek to free themselves from Cassan-
der's garrison: they take the citadel. Alexander, son of Poly-
perchon, assassinated: the praise of Cratesipolis, his wife. The
acts of Cassander in Ætolia, and other parts of Greece. The
cruelty of the Ætolians. Cassander sends an army into Caria,
and Aristotle with a fleet to Lemnos. The acts of Cassander's
army in Caria. Antigonus leaves his son Demetrius in Syria,
to watch Ptolemy. His troublesome march into Asia. The af-
fairs of Sicily. Acrotatus's misgovernment and cruelties in Si-
cily. The acts of Agathocles. The affairs of Italy.
WHEN the former year was ended, Nicodorus was created archon
at Athens, and Lucius Papirius chosen the fourth, and Quintus Pub-
lius the second time consul at Rome. At that time Aristodemus,
made general by Antigonus, hearing of the defection of Alexander,
• Mylas.
Chap. V.
375
DIODORUS SICULUS,
the son of Polyperchon, after he had opened the justice of the cause
before the senate of the Ætolians, solicited them to be assistant to
the affairs of Antigunus. Then passing into Peloponnesus with the
mercenaries, found Alexander with the Elians besieging Cyllene, and,
just arriving in time, raised the siege; and then, leaving a garrison
to defend the place, he moved towards Actria, and freed Patræ from
the garrison of Cassander; but Ægææ he took by force, and, being
possessed of the place, was ready to restore the Ægæans to their li-
berty, according to the former decree, but was prevented by this acci.
dent. The soldiers began to plunder; and upon that occasion many
of the citizens were killed, and the greatest part of the town was burnt
to the ground.
After which he sailed back into Ætolia. The Dymæi, who were
awed by a garrison of Cassander's in the castle, separated their city
from the citadel by a wall drawn round it, and, encouraging one ano-
ther to stand up for their liberties, besieged the castle, and infested
it with continual assaults: of which Alexander receiving intelligence,
he came upon them with his army on a sudden, and drove them
within their walls, and entered pell mell with them into the city, and
took it. Some of the Dymæans he put to the sword, others he im-
prisoned, and many of them he banished. After Alexander went
away, the rest of them were quiet for a little while, being both ter-
a
rified with the greatness of the late calamity, and likewise wanting
the assistance of their confederates. But some time after, they made
application to Aristodemus's mercenaries, who marched to them
from Ægææ: whereupon they again assaulted the citadel, and took
it, and freed the city, and put many of the garrison to the sword,
and put to death such of their own citizens as favoured Alexander's
party.
Amongst these turns and changes of fortune, while Alexander
with his army was marching from Sicyon, he was killed by Alexion,
a Sicyonian, and some others, who pretended to be his friends. His
wife Cratesipolis after his death took upon her the management of
affairs, and kept the army in due obedience. Her obliging carriage
and bounty was such, that she was greatly beloved by the soldiers;
for she was continually affording all the help she could to them that
were in distress, and relieving and supporting many that were in
want: besides, she was a woman of admirable prudence in manag-
ing affairs, and of courage beyond the natural temper of her sex.
For when the Sicyonians, in contempt of her, (after the death of her
husband), rose up in arms for the recovery of their liberty, she exe-
cuted her revenge by cutting off multitudes of them in a field-battle,
and crucified thirty of those she had taken prisoners: and so, having,
376
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
settled the affairs of the city, she reigned over the Sicyonians, hay-
ing under her command multitudes of soldiers ready upon all occa-
sions for any undertaking, though ever so hazardous. And this was
then the state and condition of Peloponnesus.
Cassander, perceiving that the Ætolians assisted Antigonus, and
were then likewise engaged in a war with their neighbours the Acar-
nanians, judged that the most probable way to bring down the Æto-
lians was for him to join with the Acarpanians. To this end, he
marched out of Macedonia with a great army, and came into Ætolia,
and encamped near the river Camphylus. Here he invited the Acar-
nanians to a common consultation, where he set forth how they had
been vexed for many generations past by war from their unruly and
troublesome neighbours; and therefore he advised them, that they
should leave their little forts and castles, (though they were fortified),
and betake themselves to a few cities, lest, being so dispersed and
scattered in their habitations, they should not be able to get together
to assist one another when the enemy at aoy time should suddenly
and unexpectedly break in upon them. The Acarnanians followed
his advice, and the most of them removed to Stratopolis, which was
the strongest and largest of their cities. The Eniadæ, and soine
others, went to Saurion; the Dorians, with the rest, to Agripium.
Cassander hereupon left Lyciscus his general in those parts with a
considerable body of men, with orders to assist the Acarnanians; and
he himself marched with his army to the city Leucades, and by treaty
gained them for confederates. Then with a swift march he came
şuddenly into Adria, and took in Apollonia upon his first approach.
Thence marching into Illyria, he passed over the river Hebrus, and
fought with Glaucias, the Illyrian king, and routed his army; after
which he made peace with him, upon condition that he should not
make war upon any of his confederates. Then he took Epidamnus*,
and, placing there a garrison, returned into Macedonia.
After Cassander had left Ætolia, the Ætolians joining together,
to the number of three thousand, besieged Agrinium, girting it round
with a trench and a breast-work. But the inhabitants that came be-
fore out of the country treated and agreed with the enemy-_That
upon delivery up of the city, their persons should be secure, and
they should have liberty to depart and leave the place. Whereupon,
after faith given for their security, they went out; but, when they
were on their way, the Ætolians falsely and treacherously, when the
others never suspected any thing, pursued them, and killed them al-
most every man.
Epidamnum, bordering upon the Adriatic sea. Now called Durazzo, called also
Dyrracbium,
Chap. V.
377
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Cassander being returned into Macedonia, as soon as he heard how
the cities in Caria (that had confederated with Ptolemy and Seleucus)
were infested by the war, sent over an army into Caria, both to help
the confederates, and also in time to divert Antigonus, that he might
have no leisure to come into Europe. He commanded also by his
letters Demetrius, Phalerius, and Dionysius, governor of the fort of
Munychia, to fit out forthwith twenty ships for Lemnos: who there-
upon presently despatched away the ships, under the command of
Aristotle, their admiral; and he, arriving at Lemnos, and being there
joined by Seleucus and his fleet, prevailed with the inhabitants to
desert Antigonus. But they afterwards retracted what they had be-
fore engaged to, and thereupon he wasted and harassed the country,
and drew a trench round the city, and besieged it.
About this time Seleucus arrived at Coos; whose coming there be-
ing noised abroad, Dioscorides, admiral of Antigonus's fleet, sailed to
Lemnos, and drove Aristotle out of the island, and took many of his
ships, together with all their men on board.
One Cassander and Prepelaus were commanders of the forces sent
into Caria by Cassander; who, hearing that Ptolemy, Antigonus's
general in those parts, had distributed his army into their winter-
quarters, and that he himself was busied in burying his father, sent
away Eupolemus, with eight thousand foot and two thousand horse,
to a place called Caprima, in Caria, to lie in ambuscade for him
there: but Ptolemy getting notice thereof by some that fled over to
him, got together out of the next winter-quarters eight thousand
three hundred foot, and six hundred horse, and, falling about mid-
night into the enemy's trenches, and finding them nearly all fast
asleep, took Eupolemus prisoner, and forced all his men to surrender
at discretion. And this was then the condition of those sent by Cas-
sander into Asia.
But Antigonus, perceiving that Cassander aimed at the sovereignty
of Asia, left his son Demetrius in Syria, with instructions to inter-
cept Ptolemy's men, whom he suspected were then coming with an
army further up into Syria; and for that purpose left with him ten
thousand foot of other nations, two thousand Macedonians, five hun-
dred out of Lycia and Pamphylia, four hundred Persian archers and
slingers, five thousand horse, and above forty elephants; and four
men for his counsellors, Nearchon, Python, son of Agenor, who came
lately from Babylon, Andronicus of Olynthus, and Philippus, all
men of mature age and judgment, and such as had attended upon
Alexander in all his wars: for Demetrius himself was but a young
man, not above two-and-twenty years of age. Upon Antigonus him-
self, while he passed with the rest of his army over Mount Taurus,
Vol. 2. No.45,
CCC
378
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
there fell a mighty snow, wherein he lost many of his men. Where-
upon he returned back into Cilicia, where he found out a better way
to pass that mountain, and with little damage to his army; and so,
coming to Celæne in Phrygia, he there put his army into winter-
quarters. Then he sent for the fleet out of Phoenicia, of which Medius
was admiral, who by mere chance in his way met with a fleet of thirty-
six sail belonging to the city of Pydna, and defeated them, and brought
the ships, with all their men, under his subjection. In this posture
stood the affairs both of Greece and Asia at this time.
In the mean time, in Sicily, the exiles of Syracuse, who were then
in Agrigentum, stirred up the great men of the city not to suffer
Agathocles in that manner to make a prey of the cities, alleging,
that it was better to fall upon the tyrant before he grew too strong,
than to wait till he was in greater power, and then to be forced to
contend with him, when it was more hazardous. Whereupon the
Agrigentines, approving of this advice, decreed by their suffrages war
against Agathocles; and, joining in confederacy with the Geloans
and Messenians, they sent some of the exiles to the Lacedæmonians,
with orders to procure a general to be sent to them from thence: for
they suspected that some of their own citizens were too much in-
clined to tyranny themselves; but judged that foreigners, if they re-
membered the government of Timoleon the Corinthian, would better
manage the public affairs. When they arrived, therefore, in Laco-
nia, they found Acrotatus, the son of King Cleomenes, much hated
by many of the young noblemen at home, and therefore very desir-
ous to be employed abroad: for when the Lacedæmonians, after the
fight with Antipater, had acquitted those that escaped out of that
battle from all censures of disgrace, he only opposed the decree; so
that many were offended at him, especially those that were liable to
the penalty of the laws. And upon that account they had lain in
wait for him, and beaten him, and were constantly seeking to entrap
him: being therefore for this reason desirous of a foreign command,
he very freely complied with the Agrigentines; and thereupon, with-
out the order of the ephori, (resolving upon the voyage), he set sail
with a few ships for Agrigentum: but, being driven back by a storm
into Adria, he arrived in the territory of the Apolloniates; where,
finding the city besieged by Glaucias, king of the Illyrians, he per-
suaded the king to raise the siege, and enter into a league of friend-
ship with the Apolloniates. Then he sailed to Tarentum, and there
solicited the people to join with him in procuring the restoration of
the Syracusans to their antient liberties, and so far prevailed, that
they decreed to assist them with twenty ships : for, on account of
his kindred, and the nobleness of his family, his words were of great
a
Chap. D.
379
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
>
weight and credit. While the Tarentines were making preparations,
he himself sailed to Agrigentum, and there took upon him the com-
mand of the army; whereupon the people were in high expectations,
all concluding that an end would presently be put to the tyranny:
but, in a short time, it plainly appeared that he did nothing worthy
either the nobility of his birth or the reputation of his country, but
on the contrary became more cruel than the very tyrants themselves,
and so fell into the hatred of the people; he degenerated likewise
from the custom of his country in his manner of living, and so in-
dulged himself in voluptuousness, that he seemed more like a Per-
sian than a Spartan. After he had lavished away the greatest part
of the public revenues, partly by his misgovernment, and partly by
robbing of the treasury, in the conclusion he invited Sosistratus (the
most eminent person among the exiles) and one who had been a
general of armies) to supper, and treacherously killed him, not having
any thing in the least to lay to his charge, but only that he might
take out of the way a stout and valiant man, and one that was able to
discern and discover his miscarriages: which wicked act being pre-
sently noised abroad, the exiles in a body came upon him, and every
body else forsook him, and in the first place they deposed him, and
presently after attempted to stone him to death; to avoid therefore
the rage of the people, he stole away in the night, and landed pri-
vately in Laconia. After his departure, the Tarentines recalled the
fleet they had before sent into Sicily.
Hereupon the Agrigentines, Geloans, and Messenians, by the me-
diation of Amilcar, the Carthaginian general, made peace with Aga-
thocles, the conditions of which were_That Heraclea, Selinus, and
Himera, part of the Greek cities, should belong to the Carthaginians,
as they did before; all the rest, under the power of the Syracusans,
should be free to be governed by their own laws. But afterwards
Agathocles, when he saw the coast clear, and Sicily free from all ap-
pearance of an enemy, fell upon the cities, and without any difficulty
brought them under his subjection; and, gaining many in a very
short time, strongly fixed himself in the principality. For, in the
multitude of his confederates, the greatness of his yearly revenues,
and the power of a mighty army, he grew very strong: for, besides
hi; confederates, and those raised from among the Syracusans, he had
of mercenaries ten thousand foot, and three thousand and fifty horse;
he furnished himself likewise with all sorts of arms, foreseeing that
the Carthaginians (who had smartly rebuked Amilcar for making the
peace) would in a short time make war upon him. And such was
the state of Sicily at this time,
In Italy, the Samnites, baying now been at war with the Romans
a
380
Book XIX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
for many years last past, took Philista, wherein was a strong Roman
garrison, and prevailed with the Soranions to massacre all the Ro-
mans that were there, and to confederate with the Sampites.
Afterwards, while the Romans were besieging Saticula, they came
upon them with a strong army, resolving to raise the siege; upon
which followed a sharp engagement, and, after many killed on both
sides, the Romans carried the day; and then presently after they took
the town, and gained several other neighbouring towns and castles,
And now the war was brought over amongst the cities of Apulia;
whereupon the Samnites listed all that were of age to bear arms, and
marched out, and encamped close to the enemy, being now resolved
to win or lose all. The people of Rome therefore, to prevent the
worst, sent thither a great number of soldiers; and, because they
were accustomed in perilous times to choose one of the most noble
and eminent persons to be their general, with full and absolute power
and authority, they therefore pitched upon Quintus Fabius and Quin-
tus Aulius, master of the horse, for that honourable employment,
These generals afterwards fought the Samnites at Lautulus, where
they sustained great loss of their men, and the whole army fled out-
right, only Aulus (being ashamed of the dishonour) opposed the
whole body of the enemy, not out of any hopes or expectation of
gaining the victory, but to have it manifest and apparent to all, from
his own valour, that his country was unconquerable. Not sharing
therefore with the rest of the citizens in the dishonour of the flight,
he died there a glorious and honourable death.
The Romans now, fearing lest they should lose all Apulia, sent
colonies into Luceria*, the most famous city of all those parts; and
this proved of great advantage to them, by the frequent eruptions
made upon the Samnites: for, by the help and advantage of this city,
they became conquerors not only in this war, but several times after-
wards; and even to our present age they have constantly made use
of this city as a strong fort and citadel of war against all the neigh-
bouring nations.
Loceria, now Nocera.
a
Chap. VI.
381
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. VI.
Several cities revolt; Lysimachus comes against them. Philip,
Cassander's general, routs the Epirots and Ætolians. Cassan-
der agrees with Antigonus. Antigonus gains the cities in Caria.
Cassander's acts in Greece. The Samnites routed by the Ro.
mans. Polemon sent by Antigonus into Greece to set the cities'
at liberty. The acts of Antigonus and Cassander. Polemon's
acts in Greece for Antigonus. Ptolemy goes against Cyrene
and Cyprus; and then against Demetrius. The battle with De-
metrius at Gaza. Ptolemy takes Tyre. The acts of Antigo-
nus's commanders in Greece. The Epirots make Alcetas king,
who is beaten by Lyciscus, Cassander's general; and is beaten
again by the other. Cassander goes against the Apolloniates.
Seleucus recovers Babylon with a small army. Demetrius routs
Cilles, Ptolemy's general. Ptolemy returns to Egypt, after
wasting Samaria, Gaza, Joppa, &c. Atheneus sent against
the Nabathæans by Antigonus. The customs of the Arabians.
Description of the Asphaltites, or Lake of Sodom. Demetrius
sent against Selencus in Babylon. The Wars between the Ro-
mans and Samnites in Italy. The conduct of Agathocles in Si-
cily.
a
THE affairs of this year being brought to this conclusion, Theo-
phrastus became chief magistrate of Athens, and Marcus Petilius and
Caius Sulpitius were invested with the consular dignity at Rome.
The Callantiniaus, the inhabitants of those parts on the left of the
Pontus, cast out the garrison put upon them by Lysimachus, and re-
covered their liberty. In the same manner the Istrians freed their
city, and confederated with the neighbouring inhabitants to join to-
gether in a war against their prince. The Thracians and Scythians
likewise joined with their neighbours; so that all the forces together
were of that strength, that they were able to cope with the most po-
tept army.
Lysimachus hearing what was done, marched with his army agaiust
the rebels, and passing through Thrace, when he had got over mount
Hæmus, encamped near Odessus, which, upon blocking it up, the
inhabitants in a great consternation delivered up to him. Reducing
likewise the Istrians in the same manner, he marched thence against
the Callantinians; about which time the Thracians and Scythians came
in with a great army to the assistance of their confederates. Upon
a
382
Book XIX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which Lysimachus advancing, faced them, and forthwith lifting up
his ensigns for battle, the Thracians were so terrified, that they march-
ed off and went their way. But he engaged the Scythians and routed
them, killing a great number, and driviog the rest out of the coun-
try. Then he laid close siege to the city of the Callantinians, setting
all his wits at work, and making it his principal and only business
how he might be revenged on the authors of the defection. While
he was engaged in this project, news was brought him that Antigo-
bus had sent two armies to the assistance of the Callantinians, one
by land and another by sea; and that Lycon the admiral was with
the fleet in Pontus, and that Pausanias was encamped with a great
Land army at Hieron. At this news Lysimachus was much concern-
ed, and thereupon, leaving a considerable body of troops to main-
tain the siege, he speedily marched off with the main strength of his
army to engage the enemy; and being ready to repass mount Hæmus,
he found Seuthes king of Thrace, who had revolted to Antigonus,
obstructing his passage with a great body of men : upon which he
engaged, and forced his way through the barbarians, with the loss of
a great number of his owo men, but many more of the enemy.
Then he fell upon the Pausanians, finding them in the straits,
whither they had fled. These be gained by force; and having killed
Pausanias, be discharged some of the soldiers upon ransoin, and o-
thers, who took up arms with him, he distributed amongst his own
troops. And thus stood the affairs of Lysimachus. But when this
enterprise failed, Antigonus sent Telesphorus into Peloponnesus
with a fleet of fifty sail, and a considerable number of soldiers, with
orders to set free all the cities, that they might live according to their
own ancient laws. This he did, hoping by this means to gain credit
amongst the Grecians, as one that really intended the procurement
and preservation of their liberties and by this plan he concluded he
should find out how matters stood with Cassander.
Telesphorus therefore, as soon as he arrived in Peloponnesus, went
to Alexander's garrisons, and set them all free, except Sicyon and
Corinth. For in these Polyperchon had placed great numbers of
soldiers, trusting to them and the strength of the places.
In the mean time Philip, being sent by. Cassander as general to
make war upon the tolians, as soon as he came with his army into
Acarnania, the first thing he did was to harass and spoil Ætolia: but
not long after, bearing that Æacidas king of Epirus (who was re-
stored to his kingdom) had raised a strong army, he made against
him with all speed; for he endeavoured all he could to fight him be-
fore the Ætolians had joined him. And finding the Epirots ready
prepared to fight, he forthwith engaged, and killed multitudes of

Chap. VI.
383
DIODORUS SICULUS.
them, and took many prisoners; amongst whom it happened that
there were about fifty of the faction who were the instruments of re-
storing Æacidas, whom he sent away bound to Cassander. After-
wards, the broken troops of Æacidas rallying again, joined with the
Ætolians; and Philip set upon them and routed them a second time,
with the slaughter of many, amongst whom was Æacidas himself.
Having effected sach great matters in so short a time, the Ætoli-
ans were so terrified, that they forsook their unfortified cities, and
fled with their wives and children to the fastnesses of the mountains,
where it was very difficult to come at them. And this conclusion had
the affairs of Greece at that time.
GIS ( 2 in a
As for Asia, Cassander, though he was chief governor there, yet,
overpressed with the weight of the war, agreed with Antigonus
upon these terms_That he should deliver all the soldiers into the
hands of Antigonus, and should grant liberty to all the Greek cities
there, to govern according to their own laws; and that he should
keep the province he formerly possessed as by grant from him, and
should be ever after Antigonus's firm friend.
And for the true performance of these conditions, he delivered to
him his brother Agathonas as hostage: but in a short time after he
repented of what he had done, and got his brother out of the clutches
of those who had him in custody, and sent an ambassador to Ptolemy
and Seleucus, to desire them to send him aid with all speed: at
which Antigonus was highly incensed, and sent off forces both by
sea and land, with orders to set free all the cities, and created Medius
admiral of the fleet, and Docimus general of the land forces.
1. These commanders coming to Miletus, persuaded the inhabitants
to stand up for their liberties; and took the citadel with the garrison
therein, and restored the ancient laws to the cities. Sed neid
In the mean time Antigonus took Tralles; and then lay before the
city of Caunus, and sending his fleet, took that likewise, except only
the castle; about which he cast a trench, and made continual assaults
upon it, in those parts where there was any hope of entry. He had
sent Ptolemy to the city of Lasus, with a considerable army; but he
was glad to return again to Antigonus; and so all those cities in Ca-
ria came at that time into his hands.
Within a few days after, came ambassadors from the Ætolians
and Baotians, with whom Antigonus entered into a league of con-
federacy; but, going to Cassander to the Hellespont to treat with him
for a peace, he returned without effecting any thing, for they could
not agree upon any terms. Whereupon Cassander, siden
hopes of an accommodation, resolved again to pursue
of his affairs in Greece. To that end he went with all
384
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
4
sail, to the city of Oreum *, which he so fiercely assaulted, that he
took it by storm; presently upon this came in Telesphorus from
Peloponnesus, with twenty ships and a thousand soldiers, and Me-
dius out of Asia, with a hundred sail, to the relief of Oreum, who,
spying Cassander's ships then at anchor in the harbour, burnt four
of them, and disabled almost all the rest. But the Athenians com-
ing in to their relief, Cassander, in scorn and contempt of the ene-
my, fell upon them afresh, and in the engagement sunk one, and took
three, together with all their men. And thus were affairs then ma-
naged in Greece.
In Italy, the Samnites wasted and spoiled the towns and country
round about that sided with their enemies : but the Roman con-
sals marched into those parts with an army, in order to succour
their confederates; and there encamping near Cinna, in the face of
the enemy, they allayed the fears of the city. A few days after,
the armies on both sides drew up in battalia, and fought a bloody
battle, wherein multitudes fell on both sides; but at length the Ro-
mans, breaking through the main body of their enemies, totally
routed them, and pursued them a long way, and killed above ten
thousand.
In the mean time the Campanians, (not knowing of this battle),
in contempt of the Romans, rebelled: whereupon the people of Rome
forthwith sent out a strong army against them, under the command
of Caius Menius, as general, with absolute and uplimited power, with
whom was joined, according to the custom of the Romans, Marcus
Follius, master of the horse. These consuls sitting down with their
army near Capua, the Campanians at first resolved to fight them; but
afterwards, hearing of the rout and slaughter of the Samnites, and
thinking that the Romans would fall upon them with their whole
army, made peace with them: for they gave up the ringleaders of the
defection, who, after they were examined, prevented the sentence of
condemnation by murdering themselves. But the cities were par-
doned, and so returned to their former allegiance.
The former year being ended, Polemus executed the place of the
chief magistrate at Athens, and Lucius Papirius the fifth, and Caius
Junius the second consulate at Rome, in which year was celebrated
the hundred and seventeenth Olympiad, in which Parmenio of Mity-
lene carried away the prize. At this time Antigonus sent Polemon
into Greece, to set at liberty all the Grecian cities, and with him a
hundred and fifty long ships, under the command of Medius, his ad-
miral, on board of which vessels were five thousand foot and five
hundred horse. Having made a league with the Rhodians, he re-
* In Eubea, now Negropont,
Chap. VI.
385
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ceived likewise ten ships of war more from them, to help forward the
restoring of the Greek cities to their liberties. About the same
time Ptolemy* arrived in the harbour of Bæotia (called the Deep)
with the whole fleet, and received from the Baotians two thousand
two hundred foot, and thirteen hundred horse. He sent likewise
for shipping from Oreum, and walled Salganeat, and there rendez-
voused his whole army; for he was in good hopes that the Chalci-
dians would confederate with him, who were the only Euboeans that
were garrisoned by the enemy. But Cassander was jealous of Chal-
cist, and therefore raised his siege before Oreum, and sent for his
forces thither.
Antigonus, being informed that the armies lay encamped one over
against another in Eubea, recalled Medius with the fleet into Asia,
and forthwith got his forces together, and with a swift march made
for the Hellespont, with a design to pass over into Macedonia,
that he might either seize upon it while Cassander was busy in Eu-
hæa, and the country void of sufficient defence; or that, by forcing
him to come in with aid for the defence of the kingdom, he might
thereby divert him from prosecuting the war in Greece, and ne-
cessitate him to endeavour for the preservation of his concerns nearer
at home.
But Cassander coming to understand what he designed, left Plis-
tarchus to guard Chalcis, and he himself marched away with the
whole army, and took Oropus by assault, and brought over the The-
bans to be his confederates, and entered into a truce with the rest of
the Bæotians; and having so done, he left Eupolemus to defend
Greece, and returned into Macedonia with his head full of care con-
cerning the enemy's march into that country.
When Antigonus came to the Propontis, he solicited the Byzan-
tines by his ambassadors to join with him as confederates; but it
proved that there were there at the same time agents from Lysi-
machus, treating with them not to engage in any thing either against
him or Cassander. Whereupon the Byzantines resolved to remain
quiet at home, and stand upon equal terms of peace and amity with
both sides.
This unlucky accident giving a stop to Antigonus's further pro-
gress in this affair, together with the approach of the winter, he dis-
tributed his soldiers in the towns round about into their winter-
quarters.
In the mean time, the Corcyreans assisted the Apolloniates and
them of Epidamnus, and, upon terms of agreement, sent away Cas-
+ Salganeus in Beotia, near Chalcis.
* Antigonus's general.
Vol. 2, No. 45.
In Bæotia,
DDD
386
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
sander's soldiers, and thereupon restored them of Apollonia to their
antient liberties, and Epidamnus they delivered up to Glaucias, king
of the Illyrians.
But Ptolemy, Antigonus's general, upon Cassander's return into
Macedonia, and the consternation Chalcis was in, had the city de-
livered up to him, and so freed the Chalcidians from receiving any
further garrison, to the end that every one might take notice that
Antigonus was sincere, and did really design to restore all the Greek
cities to their liberties; for it was a city of very great moment and
concern to such as were ambitious of gaining the sovereignty of
Greece, and valued a place of strength for that purpose.
Polemon likewise took Oropus, and delivered it up to the Boo-
tians, and made all Cassander's soldiers prisoners of war; and, after
he had brought in the Eretrians and Carystians to join as confede-
rates, he led his army into Attica, Demetrius Phalerius being then
chief magistrate of the city: for those Athenians that desired to be
restored to their antient laws had not long before sent privately to
Antigonus, to treat with him upon that account; and now, being
more resolved and encouraged upon Ptolemy's drawing near to the
city, they forced Demetrius to make a truce, and send an agent te
Antigonus, in order to treat of a league with him.
Out of Attica, Ptolemy marched into Baotia, and took the cita-
del Cadmea, and freed the Thebans from that garrison. Thence he
went forward into Phocis, and, reducing several cities there, he cast
out the garrisons of Cassander in every place wherever he came.
Then he invaded Locris; and, because the Opuntians joined with
Cassander, he besieged them, and pressed upon the place with con-
tinual assaults.
About the same time, the Cyrenians revolted from Ptolemy, king
of Egypt, and besieged the castle there so fiercely, as if they would
presently have taken it; and when messengers came from Alexandria,
persuading them to desist, they struck off their heads, and fell to
work against the castle more fiercely than before. Ptolemy being
exceedingly moved hereat, sent one Agis, a captain of his, thither with
an army, and withal a navy to assist him by sea, under the command
of Epenetus. Agis vigorously pursuing the war against those rebels,
took Cyrene by storm, and committed the authors of this sedition to
prison, and then sent them bound to Alexandria, and disarmed the
rest: and so, having set things in order there, (as he saw cause), re-
turned into Egypt.
Ptolemy having had this good success at Cyrene, took shipping,
and with his fleet passed over out of Egypt into Cyprus, against those
who rebelled against their kings; and, having seized Pygmalion,,
Chap. VI.
387
DIODORUS SICULUS.
(whom he found corresponding with Antigonus), he put him to death.
Then he took Praxippus, king of the Lapithæ*, and-prince of Ce-
ryneat, who was suspected of a revolt, and laid them fast: he took
likewise Stasiecus, a petty king of the Malieansſ, and, destroying
their city, removed the inhabitants from thence to Paphos; which
done, he made Nicocreon commander over all Cyprus, and gave him
the cities, together with the revenues of all the kings whom he had
cast out of their dominions, and then went with his army into the
Upper Syria, ard saked the cities Posideum and Potamos, of the
Carians. That done, he went with a flying army into Cilicia, and
took Mallos, and sold all the inhabitants for slaves, and wasted all
the region thereabout; and, having stored all his army with rich
plunder, sailed back again to Cyprus. He so shared with his soldiers
in all hazards and dangers, that he stirred them
that he stirred them up, by his example,
,
cheerfully and readily to undergo all manner of difficulties.
Meanwhile Demetrius, the son of Antigonus, kept in Colosyria,
expecting the coming of the Egyptians; but when he heard of the
taking of so many cities, he left Python to command in those parts,
leaving his corsleteers and elephants with him, and he, with his horse
and companies of light-armed soldiers, hastened away with all speed
to Cilicia, to aid them that were in distress there; but coming too
late, and finding the enemies all gone, le returned speedily to his
camp again, spoiling many of his horse by the way; for in six days
time he made away from Mallos, four-and-twenty days journey, by
their ordinary stages; so that, through their immoderate speed in
travelling, none of their servants or horse-boys were able to keep them
company.
Ptolemy therefore, seeing all go every where as he would have it,
for the present returned into Egypt. But not long after, being pre-
vailed upon by Seleucus, (for the hatred that he bore to Antigonus),
he resolved to march into Calosyria, and there to try it out with De-
metrius: wherefore, gathering all his army together, he marched
from Alexandria to Pelusium, having with him eighteen thousand
foot, and four thousand horse, whereof some were Macedonians, and
some hired soldiers: as for the Egyptians, some served to carry their
darts and weapons, and other luggage of the army, and some for sol-
diers; and, having passed the desert from Pelusium, he encamped
near the old city of Gaza, in Syria, not far from the enemy.
Demetrius, on the other side, called all his army out of their
wiater-quarters, and appointed them to rendezvous at Gaza, there to
attend the enemy's approach. His friends indeed advised him not
to fight with so great a general, who had the advantage of a far more
• In Thessaly,
In Arcadia. Malicans, in Thessaly,
388
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
numerous army; but he rejected their counsel, and confidently pre-
pared himself for battle, though he was then but a mere boy, and was
to undertake so hazardous an engagement without his father. Call-
ing now, therefore, the soldiers as they stood at their arms, he
mounted an ascent raised by earth, and there stood as if he were in
amaze and astonishment: upon which, all the soldiers cried out with
one voice_“ Be courageous ;” and presently there was a deep si-
lence before the herald could command it: for, because that he had
but newly taken upon him the sovereign command, none took any
offence at his deportment, in relation either to civil or military af-
fairs, which is frequently the lot of old captains, who have many
times all their faults exposed at one time:For the common people
are not long pleased with the same things; and whatever grows stale
in the use, has a pleasant gust in the change and alteration. And
besides, the expectation of his coming to the kingdom (his father be-
ing now old) conjoined in his succession both the supreme command
and the good will of the people together. Moreover, he was a very
proper and comely person, and, being clad in royal armour, appeared
in that majesty as possessed the beholders with awe and reverence,
and raised up the spirits of the army with high expectations of great
things to come. He was likewise of a mild disposition, becoming a
new prince and general, by which he won the love of all, insomuch
that even those who were not as yet reduced into regular regiments
flocked to him to receive his commands, being much concerned upon
account of his youth, and the hazardous battle that was presently to
be fought: for he was not only to try the fortune of war against a
greater number of men, but against the most eminent and expert
commanders of the age, Ptolemy and Seleucus, who had been captains
under Alexander in all his wars, and had been often generals of their
own armies, never conquered to that day.
Demetrius therefore, after he had with winning and obliging ex-
pressions courted the soldiers, and promised rewards suitable to every
man's merit, drew up the army in battalia. In the left wing (where
he himself intended to be) he placed first two hundred choice horse,
amongst wbom, with other of the nobility, was Python, who had
served under Alexander, and had been made general of all the forces
by Antigonus, and fellow-partner with him in all his concerns. In
the front he placed three regiments of horse, and as many flankers to
support them: at a distance out from the wing were three other re-
giments of Tarentines, to the end that five hundred horsemen with
lances, and a hundred Tarentines, might be ready at hand as the
king's life-guard. Next he placed eight hundred horse, which were
called Associates; and after them fifteen hundred out of several na-
Chap. VI.
389
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
tions; and before the whole wing stood as a guard thirty elephants,
lined with light-armed men, of whom a thousand were darters and
archers, and five hundred Persian slingers. And in this manner was
the left wing drawn up, with which he intended to make the onset:
then was ranged the main body, consisting of eleven thousand foot,
of whom two thousand were Macedonians, and a thousand Lycians and
Pamphylians, and eight thousand hired soldiers.
In the right wing he drew up the rest of the horse, to the number
of fifteen hundred, under the command of Andronicus, who had or-
ders to keep in an oblique line, and make a running fight of it, still
observing how it went with Demetrius. The rest of the elephants,
to the number of thirteen, he placed before the main body of the foot,
lining them with as many light-armed men as were suflicient. And
in this manner Demetrius drew
up
his
army.
As for Ptolemy and Seleucus, at the first they made it their busi-
ness to place their greatest strength in their left wing, not knowing
what the enemy designed: but being afterwards informed by their
scouts what was done, they forthwith so drew up, as that the greatest
strength being in their right wing, they might be the better able to
engage with Demetrius in the left; and therefore in that wing were
drawn
up three thousand of the best horse, amongst whom they them-
selves intended to charge. Before these were placed those who bore
an artificial palisado before them, sharp-pointed with iron, and fas-
tened together with chains, prepared against the shock of the ele-
phants; for this being drawn out in lengtli, it was an easy matter by
this means to put a stop to their further career. In the front of this
wing were placed light-armed soldiers, who were commanded to ply
the elephants and their riders with darts and arrows as they came on.
The right wing being thus drawn up, and the rest of the army so dis-
posed as the present occasion at that time most required, they led
forth the army with a great shout towards the enemy; who, on the
other side, drawing down upon them, the fight was begun by the horse
in the fronts of both wings, where the Demetrians had much the bet.
ter; but within a little time after, the Ptolemians and Seleucians,
(having surrounded the wing) made a fierce charge with their whole
body, upon which (through the resolution of both parties) there fol-
lowed a very sharp engagement. Upon the first onset they fought
with their lances, when many were killed, and as many wounded,
on both sides. Then they fell to it with their swords, and there,
thronging together, thrust one another through, and fell in heaps to-
gether.
The generals, exposing themselves to the utmost bazard, led on
their men, and encouraged their troops to stick to it like valiant sol-
390
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
diers. The horse, which were placed to guard the wings, were all
brave and gallant men; and having their commanders, who fought
together with them, eye-witnesses of their valour, strove to outvie
each other. And now, when the fight between the horse had been
a long time doubtful, the elephants, forced on by the Indians, made
so terrible an onset, that it appeared impossible for any force to have
stood against them. But when they came up to the palisado, the
darters and archers sorely galled both the beasts and their riders; and
being still forced on, and whipt by the Indians, some of them stuck
upon the sharp points of the palisado, with which, besides the mul-
titude of the darts and arrows that galled them, they were in such
pain and torment, that they caused a horrible tumult and confusion:
for these creatures, in plain and level places, bear down all before
them; but in those which are rough and craggy, they are of no
use or service, because of the tenderness of their feet. Ptolemy
therefore, wisely foreseeing of what advantage this palisado would be,
by that means frustrated the rage and fury of the beasts. At length,
most of the Indians that rode them being killed, all the elephants
were taken ; upon which the greatest part of Demetrius's horse were
in such a consternation, that they forthwith fled; and he himself was
left with a very few that attended him; but not being able, with all
the arguments he could make, to persuade his men to stand their
ground, and not forsake him, he was forced likewise to retreat. A
great part of the horse that followed the other, retired in good order,
and kept themselves unbroken till they came to Gaza, so as that none
of the pursuers durst hastily fall upon them. For the field being a
large open plain, they had the more liberty to draw off in order and
jetreat in a formed body. Some of the foot also, thinking it the best
course to forfake their colours and look to themselves, cast away their
arms, and followed the horse.
About sun-setting Demetrius passed by Gaza *; but some of the
horse left him and entered the city, for the purpose of bringing out
some luggage. The gates therefore being open, and the streets fil-
Jed with baggage horses, and all being engaged in leading and carry-
ing out their goods, there was such disorder and thronging at the
gates, that, upon the approach of Ptolemy's troops, it was impossible
to shut them to prevent their entry; so that the enemy breaking in,
the city thus fell into the hands of Ptolemy. Aud such was the is-
sue of this battle.
Demetrius, without stop or delay, about midnight arrived at Azo-
tus t, having ridden about thirty miles from the place of battle Ice
* Gaza, in Judæa, where Sampson carried away the gates.
1 Asdod, in Judæa, now a small village called Alzute.
$ T'no hundred and seventy furlongs.
Chap. VI.
391
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Thence he sent a trumpet to beg the bodies of the dead, being very
desirous of performing the last office of right due to them that were
slain. Many of his nobility were there killed; amongst whom, the
most eminent were Python, joined in equal commission with him-
self, and Beotus, who had long lived with Antigonus his father, and
was ever privy to all his desigos, and partaker of all his councils.
There were slain in this battle, on Demetrius's side, above five huo-
dred,* the greatest part of whom was horse, and the chief of his no-
bility; and more than eight thousand were taken prisoners.
Ptolemy and Seleucus not only granted him the dead bodies, but
sent him back his own pavilion with all the furniture belonging to it,
and all such prisoners as were of his household, free and without
ransom; moreover letting him know, that they fought not with Anti-
gonus for these things, but because he had not restored to the go-
vernors those provinces that were conquered by their joint arms in
the war first against Perdiccas, and then against Eumenes; also be-
cause, after that he had renewed his league of friendship with Seleu-
cus, he had most unjustly, and against all right, deprived hins of the
province of Babylon. Other prisoners Ptolemy sent into Egypt,
with orders to distribute them amongst the several regiments in his
fleet.
After Ptolemy had with great pomp and solemnity buried those
that were slain in the battle, he marched with his army against the
cities of Phænicia, besieging some and persuading others to yield.
Demetrius in the mean time (being no longer able to hold out) des-
patched away a messenger with letters to his father, to pray him to
come speedily to his assistance: and he himself going to Tripoli in
Phænicia, sent for the soldiers that were in Cilicia and elsewhere in
garrisons remote and far distant from the enemies' quarters to come
to him. But Ptolemy, still keeping with his army in the open field,
marched unto the coasts of Sidon, and encàmping near Tyre, sent
to Andronicus, governor of the garrison there, to surrender the city
to him, making him large promises both of wealth and honour. But
He not only answered _ That he would never betray the trust which
Antigonus and Demetrius had put in him, but also used many revi.
ling speeches against Ptolemy: but a little while after he was sur
prised by a mutiny of his own soldiers, and fell into his hauds; and
thereupon expected nothing but death for his refusal to deliver up the
city, and for his reviling language. But Ptolemy not only forgot
the injury but highly rewarded him, and took hiin into the number
of his friends, and honourably preferred him. For this prince was of
a most affable and gentle disposition, and very kind and generous,
• Five thousand, accurding to Plutarch.
392
Book XIX,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
which much contributed to the increase of his power, and to the ad-
vancement of his bonour and reputation, and induced many upon
that account to join with him, as his allies and confederates. For he
honourably received Seleucus when he was cast out of Babylon, and
made him and the rest of his friends partners with him in that plenty
and state of prosperity which he himself enjoyed: and therefore,
when Seleucus desired some forces from him to go along with him to
Babylon, he very readily granted them, and besides promised that
he would assist him in every thing to his power, till he had recover-
ed his former government. In this condition stood the affairs of Asia
at that time.
In Europe, Telesphorus, Antigonus's admiral, who then lay with
the fleet at Corinth, seeing how Ptolemy was preferred before him,
and that all the concerns of Greece were entrusted to his hands, ac-
cused Antigonus upon this account, and delivered up to him those
ships he had with him. Then picking out so many of his soldiers as
were willing to join with him in his designs, he began to put them
in execution. And pretending to be in amity with Antigonus, he
entered Elis, fortified the citadel, and enslaved the city. He like-
wise robbed the temple at Olympus, and took thence above fifty ta-
lents of silver, wherewith he raised and hired foreign soldiers. And
thus Telesphorus, out of envy to the advancement of Ptolemy, be-
came a traitor to Antigonus.
But Ptolemy, Antigonus's general in Greece, as soon as he heard
of the defection of Telesphorus, and that he had seized upon the ci-
ty of the Elians, and robbed the temple at Olympus, marched with
an army into Peloponnesus: and coming to Elis, razed the citadel
to the ground, restored the Elians to their liberty, and the money to
the temple.
Afterwards, he so far wrought upon Telesphorus, that he regain-
ed Cylene, wherein Telesphorus had put a garrison, and restored it to
the Elians.
In the mean time, while these things were acting, the Epirots,
Æacidas their king being dead, delivered up the kingdom to Alcetas,
who had before been banished by his father Arybilus. This Alcetas
was an inveterate enemy to Cassander, and therefore Lyciscus, Cas-
sander's general in Acarnania, marched with an army into Epirus,
hoping he should easily depose him, the affairs of the kingdom being
then scarcely well settled.
Lyciscus for this purpose encamping at Cassopia, Alcetas sent his
sons Alexauder and Teucrus, to all the cities, to raise as many sol-
diers as they possibly could; and he himself marched forward with
what forces he had, and when he came near the enemy made a halt,
waiting the approach of his sons,
Chap. VI.
395
DIODORUS SICULUS.
But Lyciscus, who far exceeded him in number, pressing upon him,
the Epirots in a great terror, rạn over to the enemy: whereupon
Alcetas being thus forsaken, fled to Eurymenas, a city in Epirus.-
While he was closely besieged in this place, Alexander arrived with
assistance to the relief of his father; upon which followed a sharp
engagement, wherein many of Lyciscus's men were cut off, among
,
whom, besides other persons of great account, were Micythus, an ex-
pert captain, and Lysander the Athenian, Cassander's lord-lieutenant
in Leucadia.
Afterwards, Dinias arriving to the assistance of those thus worst-
ad, a second engagement took place, in which Alexander and Teucrus
being routed, they, together with their father, fled to a strong castle
in that neighbourhood for shelter. Lyciscus presently took Eury-
menas, plundered it, and razed it to the ground.
Cassander at this time hearing of the defeat of his forces, but hav-
ing no intelligence of the success which followed, hastened away to
Epirus to succour Lyciscus. But when he came to understand how
well matters had succeeded with him, he made peace, and entered
into a league of friendship with Alcetas. Then with part of his are
my he went to Adria *, in order to besiege the Apolloniates t, who had
cast out his garrison, and joined with the Illyrians. But the inhabi-
tants were not at all alarmed, and having sent for help from their
confederates, they drew up in battalia before their walls: upon which
there ensued a sharp and long contested action; but the Apollo-
niates, overpowering the others with numbers, put their enemies to
flight. Cassander therefore, having lost many of his men, being in
want of sufficient forces, and perceiving winter to draw on, returned
to Macedonia.
After his departure, the Leucadians I, assisted by the Corcyrians,
drove out the garrison of Cassander. As for the Epirots, they were
quite under the royal government of Alcelas for a time; but when
he grew more severe and tyrannical, they murdered both him and
his two sons, Hesioneas and Nisus, who were but then young chil-
dren.
In Asia, Seleucus after the routing of Demetrius at Gaza in Syria,
(receiving from Prolemy no more than eight hundred foot, and two
hundred horse) marched towards Babylon with that confidence as to
believe, that though he had no forces at all with him, yet he should
be able to go up into the higher provinces with only his own particu-
a
• A city and country upon the coast of the Adriatic sea.
+ The inhabitants of Apollonia, a city of Thrace.
The people of Leucas, a peninsula near to the Ambracian gull, bordering on Epirus,
callcd also Neritis.
Vol. 2. No. 45.
DEK
394
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
R
lar friends and servants; being verily persuaded, that the Babyloni-
ans (for the former love and affection they bore him) would readily
come in and side with him; and that now he had a fair opportunity
a
to accomplish his design, Antigonus being with his army at a great
distance from the place.
However, though he went on with such confidence of mind, yet
his friends that were with him, (seeing the inconsiderable number of
his soldiers, and on the other hand the great strength of his enemies
against whom he was marching, and the abundance of provision,
and number of the confederates wherewith they were supplied and
furnished) were greatly discouraged: which Seleucus observing, ad-
dressed them to this effect -- It becomes not the captains and fellow
soldiers of Alexander, in the expeditions of war, to confide only in
the strength of arins and confluence of wealth, but in their military
art and prudence through which he accomplished great and wonder-
ful things, by all for ever to be admired: but it is our duty rather to
believe the gods who have assured us that this expedition shall be
successful. For he told them _That in consulting the oracle of the
Branchidæ*, some consideral;le time before the god called him king;
and that Alexander stood by him in his sleep, and clearly discovered
to him the royal diguity to which in due time he should be advanced:
and further declared _That whatever was great and glorious amongst
men was always to be attained by hazards and toil. And withal
carrying himself fairly and amicably to all his soldiers he was honour-
ed by every body, and all were willing to run with him the hazard of
this desperate enterprise.
On then he marched, and coming with them into Mesopotamia
he there dealt with such Macedonians as he found dwelling in Car-
ræ, and some of them by persuasion, and some of them by plain force,
he drew to go along with him in this expedition. As soon as he en-
.
tered into Babylon, the inhabitants came in flocking to him, and of
fered him their service; for he had before carried himself in the
most obliging manner to all, for the space of four years together,
when he was governor of the province, thereby to gain the good will
of the people, and to secure an interest for himself, if at any time af-
terwards he should liave an occasion to contend for the sovereign
command. Polyarchus also came in to him, who bore some kind of
office among them, with above a thousand men completely armed.
But they who stood for Antigonus, when they perceived the general
and irresistible inclination of the multitude towards him, fled all to
the castle, wbich was commanded by Diphilus; and Seleucus fell
The temple of Apollo Didyræus iu Ionia, where the priests and inhabitants were
called Branchidæ.
Chap. VI.
395
DIODORUS SICULUS.
presently to besiege it, and having taken it by force, delivered such
of his children and friends as Antigonus (when Seleucus for fear iled
away from Babylon into Egypt) had there committed to prison.
This done, he began to raise soldiers in the country, and, having
bought horses, distributed them among such as were fit to ride them.
And withal, carrying himself with all fairness and affability towards
all sorts, made them all ready to run any hazard with him, and so in a
short time recovered all his government of Babylon. But afterwards,
Nicanor, whom Antigonus had made governor of Media, marched
against him with ten thousand foot, and seven thousand horse; and
Seleucus without delay went out to meet him, having with him in
all a little above three thousand foot and four hundred horse: and
passing the river Tigris, when he heard that the enemy was not far
off, he hid his men in the fens there near at hand, purposing to set
on him unawares; who, when he came to the bank of the Tigris,
and found no enemy there, went and encamped near to a post-house
of the king's, little thinking the enemy had been so near. But the
night following (through a careless regard and contempt of the ene-
my, not keeping a due watch) Seleucus fell upon him, and raised a
great tumult in his army; for the Persians putting themselves for-
ward, Evager, their general, with several others of their commanders
were slain. After which encounter, the greater part of Nicanor's
army, as well on account of the present danger they were in, as for
the disgust they had to Antigonus's government, left him and came
over to the service of Seleucus. Whereupon Nicanor, fearing lest
at the next rencounter his soldiers should deliver him up to Seleu-
eus, absolutely stole away with some of his friends, and fled through
the desert. Seleucus having by this means got a potent army about
him, and continued his fair carriage to all men as before, casily pro-
cured the provinces of Media and Susa, and other countries bordering
thereupon, to come under his subjection; and sent Ptolemy word
how he had succeeded, having now.got the full royal power and ma-
jesty into his hands.
Ptolemy continued still in Cælosyria after the great victory gain-
ed over Demetrius, whom he heard was returned out of Cilicia, and
lay encamped in the upper Syria; whereupon he sent one of his no-
bility about him, called Celles, (a Macedonian born) with a great ar-
my, commanding him either to drive him out of every part of Syria,
or to coop him up and tread him to dirt where he lay. While he
was upon his march, Demetrius understanding by his scouts that
Celles lay carelessly with his army at Myus, leaving bis carriages be-
hind him, marched away with a company of light infantry, who tra-
velled all night, and a little before day fell in
upen Celles's
camp,
396
Book XIX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
took it without striking a blow, and Celles himself prisoner; by which
victory (it was judged) that he was quit with them for the former
loss he had sustained. Yet because he thought Ptolemy himself was
coming after with all his army, he therefore pitched his camp in a
place where he had a bog on the one hand, and a lough on the other.
Demetrius wrote letters of this his good success to his father Antigo-
nus wishing him either to send an army speedily, or to come himself
in person into Syria. Antigonus was then at Celænæ in Phrygia,
and having read the letter was wonderfully pleased with the news,
both because the victory was obtained by his own son's conduct (who
was so young), and for that he had shewn himself to be a man wor-
thy to wear a crown hereafter. Upon this news he himself with his
army marched out of Phrygia, and having passed over mount Taurus
in a few days time he joined with Demetrius.
Ptolemy, hearing of the coming of Antigonus, called a council of
war to advise whether it were better to stay where he was, and there
to try it out with him in Syria, or to return into Egypt and fight with
him from thience, as he had done before with Perdiccas? The result
of the council was_That he should not hazard himself by engaging
with an army far more numerous than his own, and where there were
such multitudes of elephants, and all under the command of a gene-
ral never yet conquered; and that it was much safer for him to fight
in Egypt where he would be better supplied with provision than the
enemy could be, and had places of strength wherein he might confide.
Determining therefore to leave Syria, before he went he laid waste
and destroyed the principal cities he held there at that time in his
possession, as Achon in Syrophænicia, Joppa, and Samaria; and Ga-
za in Syria. Then taking along with him out of the country, whate-
ver he could drive or carry (loaded with wealth) he returned into
Egypt.
Antigonus, when he had recovered all Syria and Phænicia without
striking a blow, took a journey into the country of the Arabians, call-
ed the Nabathæans*; for, thinking that they never much favoured
his proceedings, he appointed one of his nobility, called Athenæus,
with four thousand foot, and six hundred horse to fall in upon them,
and to bring away what spoil he could out of their country.
It is worth our pains here to relate the manners and customs of
these Arabians, for the information of those that are ignorant; by the
use of which customs they have hitherto secured theniselves and pre-
served their liberty. They live in the plain and open fields, calling
xhat desert their country, wherein are neither inhabitants, rivers, nor
springs, whereby any enemy's arnıy can be relieved. It is a law a-
• Nabatb, of the sead of Ishmael.
Chap. VI.
397
DIODORUS SICULUS.
mongst them neither to sow, plant, build houses, nor drink any wine;
and he that is discovered to do any of these is sure to die for it.
And the reason of this law is, þecause they conceive that those who
are possessed of such things are easily (for fear of losing what they
have, or in hopes of gaining more) forced to comply with the will
and humour of those that are more powerful. Some of them breed
up camels, others employ themselves in feeding sheep, roving to and
fro in the wilderness for that purpose. There are no few, indeed, of
the Arabians, that though they give themselves to the pasturage of
eattle in the deserts, yet are far richer than the rest, but exceed not
in number above ten thousand. For many of them use to carry frank-
incense, myrrh, and other rich perfumes down to the sea-side, which
they traffic for, and receive from those who bring them from Arabia
the Happy. They highly prize and value their liberty, and when any
strong armies invade them, they presently fly into the wilderness, as
to a strong fort and castle, for refuge; for no water being there to
be had, none can follow them through these deserts : but as to
themselves, they have a sure and safe retreat by the help of earthen
pots and vessels hid in the ground prepared before hand. For the
soil is a fat clay, under which lies a soft stone, in which they dig
great caves very narrow at the entrance, but enlarging by degrees as
they increase in depth, till they come at length to that bigness as to
be a hundred feet square; these caves they fill up to the mouths
with these vessels filled with rain-water; then they lay all even with
the rest of the ground and leave certain marks where to find the
place, known to none but themselves. For the cattle (driven away
along with them) take so much water as may serve them for three
days, lest while they are in their flight in dry and parched places,
they should ever be put to a stop by the continual watering of their
cattle,
Their food is flesh, milk, and roots. For drink, having abundance
of wild honey, aud a sort of pepper, they mix them together for that
purpose.
There are likewise other kinds of Arabians, some of whom em-
ploy themselves in husbandry, selling of corn, and other sorts of
provisions, and agree with the Syrians in all other things, except
dwelling in houses. And such were then the customs of these Ara-
bians.
Near at hand there was a public meeting of these Arabians*,
wbither all bordering nations used to come, as to a common mart,
to sell off to them their commodities, and to buy from them the mer-
chandize of their country. To this mart the Nabathæans now went,
* The Nabathæaus.
398
Book XIX.
DIQDORUS SICULUS.
leaving their wealth and old men, with their wives and children, up-
on the top of a rock. The place was very strong, but unwalled, and
distant two days journey from the country that was inhabited. Athe-
næus, watching his opportunity, marched speedily to this rock; and,
having marched out of the province of Edom the space of two thou-
sand two hundred furlongs in three days and three nights, late at
midnight (the Arabians knowing nothing of his coming) possessed
himself of the place: of the soldiers there found, some he put to the
sword, and others he made prisoners, and such as were wounded, he
there left behind him; and he carried away the greatest part of their
myrrh and frankincense, with five hundred talents of silver, and,
staying there not above three hours, for fear of the country's coming
in upon him, presently returned again. And now he and his sol-
diers, having gone two hundred furlongs, could go no farther for
extreme weariness, and therefore rested there, keeping neither watch
nor ward, presuming that the country people could not reach thither
in less than two or three days time. But the Arabians, receiving in-
telligence by some that saw the army, presently got together, left the
fair, and returned to the rock, where, being more fully informed by
the wounded men of what was done, they immediately pursued the
Greeks with all possible speed; and, because Athenæus's men kept
no watch, and, after their long journey, lay weary and fast asleep,
some of the prisoners stole away from them; from whom, when their
countrymen (whom they met) had learnt how the enemy's camp lay,
they hastened to the place, and, coming upon them at three of the
clock in the morning, fell into their trenches, to the number of eight
thousand of them, and cut the throats of some sleeping in their ca-
bins, and others, who made resistance, they slew. In short, they
utterly destroyed all the foot, and only fifty of their horse got away,
and those too, for the most part, wounded. And thus Athenæus,
though he began well, yet, tbrough his owo imprudence, lost all in
the close. And therefore some, not without cause, are of opinion,
that it is easier to improve misfortunes to the best advantage, than to
act with prudence under extraordinary successes: for the first, through
fear of what further mischief may follow, puts a man on to a more
exact and careful management of his concerns; but, by prosperous
adventures, men are many times flattered into gross vegligence and
security.
The Nabathæans, having thus revenged themselves of their ene-
mies, and recovered their goods again, returned to the rock; and, by
a letter of theirs, written to Antigonus in Syriac characters, com-
plained of Athenæus, and the wrong he had done them, and excused
themselves. To whom Antigonus wrote back again, cunningly telling
Chap. VI.
399
DIODORUS SICULUS.
them, that Athenæus was well enough served by them, blaming him
for what he had done, and assuring them that he had given him no
such orders. This he did to cover what he was really designing a-
gainst them, and to make them the less cautious, that thereby he
might with more ease effectually accomplish what he was now con-
triving: for, without some stratagem, it was no easy matter to over-
come men that wandered up and down continually here and there,
and had the wilderness for an inaccessible shelter and refuge at the
last extremity.
The Arabians, upon the receipt of the letter, rejoiced that they
seemed at present to be freed from their great fears; but yet they did
not wholly rely upon his letter; but, being between hope apd fear,
placed spies upon watch-towers and other high places, whence they
might easily see afar off, when any enemy made an incursion into
Arabia; and they themselves put all things in readiness, waiting for
the issue and event.
But Antigonus, having for a time carried himself as a friend to-
wards these barbarians, now judged that he had a fair opportunity to
fall upon them, having brought them, as it were, to his bait. To this
end, therefore, he chose out of all his army four thousand light-armed
foot, and the swiftest he could find, and added to them four thousand
horse, desiring them to take with them as many day's victuals as
they could well carry, and such as needed no cooking; and, assigning
Demetrius his son to command them, he sent them away about the
first watch of the night, with this charge, that he should by all means
be revenged on them. He therefore travelled three days journey
through the desert, hastening to fall upon them at unawares. But
their scouts, perceiving the first approach of the enemy towards their
borders, immediately gave notice of their coming to the country:
whereupon they presently betook themselves to their rock, where
there was but one way up, and that made by art, and there laid all
their baggage, and left a sufficient guard to keep it; and the rest
went and drove away their cattle, some to one place, and some to
another, in the desert. Demetrius, when he came to the rock, and
saw all the cattle driven away, presently began to besiege it; but
they that were within manfully defending it, by the advantage of the
place, had all the day long the better of it, so that Demetrius was
,
forced at last to draw off. The next day, when he approached again
with his forces to the rock, one of the barbarians cried out_“ What
wouldest thou have, O king, Demetrius? or what has provoked thee
to make war upon us, who inhabit the wilderness, and in places where
there is neither water, corn, nor wine, nor any thing else which you
want? But as for us, who can upon no terms endure to be slaves,
400
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
we betake ourselves to a country destitute of all things that are of
absolute necessity to all other men; and we choose to live a solitary
life altogether, like the beasts of the field, without doing the least
harm to any of you. Therefore we intreat you Demetrius, and your
father, that you injure not us, but that you would accept of some
presents, and march away with the army from us, and receive the
Nabathæans into the number of your friends for the time to come.
Neither can you possibly stay here many days, (though you had ever
so great a mind to do it), for want of water, and all other necessa-
sies; neither can you ever force us to change our course of life,
though perhaps you may take some poor dispirited prisoners, who will
never endure to be brought under the power of other laws and rules
of living."
After this was said, Demetrius drew off his army, and wished them
to send ambassadors to him to treat of these matters. Hereupon the
Arabians sent their oldest men, who (using the same arguments with
those before related) persuaded Demetrius to accept of such gifts as
• were of greatest esteem and value among them, and so put an end to
the war. Upon hostages therefore given him, and such gifts as were
agreed upon between them, he drew off from the rock, and so, re-
moving with bis army three hundred furlongs off, he encamped near
to the Lake Asphaltites*, the nature of which it is not fit to pass over
without giving some account of it.
It lies in the midst of the province of Edom, and stretches forth
in length five hundred furlongs; but in breadth it is but threescore.
The water is very bitter and stinking, so that neither fish, nor any
other thing used to the water, can live in it; and, though many re-
markable rivers of very sweet water empty themselves into it, yet it
remains as corrupt and unsavory, both as to taste and smell, as ever
it did before. Every year there rises out of the middle of it great
massy pieces of bitumen and pitch, sometimes bigger than three
plethrast, and sometimes a little less than one. And upon that ac-
count the barbarous inhabitants call the larger pieces bulls, and the
lesser calves. These pieces of pitch and brimstone, floating upon
the water, appear at a distance like so many islands. There are evi-
dent signs that forego and give notice of the casting up of this bitu-
minous matter, at least twenty days before: for a horrid smell of
brimstone and pitch infects the air round about the lake at many fur-
longs distance, and all metals, whether of gold, silver, or copper,
near the place, change their natural colour, which presently returns
again as soon as the brimstone is exhaled. The places bordering
• Asphaltites, or the Dead Sea. The Lake of Socom,
+ Divery plethra is one hundred foci,
Chap. VI.
401
DIODORUS SICULUS.
:
upon it are so burning hot, (by reason of the sulphur and brimstone
under ground), and cast forth such a horrible stench, that the in-
habitants are very unhealthy and short-lived: yet the country there-
abouts, being watered with many pleasant rivers and refreshing
springs, bears abundance of palm-trees; and in a certain vale near
to this place grows what they call Balm*, from which they raise a
great revenue, inasmuch as this plant grows in no other part of the
world besides, and is of great use amongst physicians, for the healing
and curing of wounds, and other distempers. The inhabitants on
both sides of this lake are so earnest to carry away this brimstone,
that they fight one with another; and they bring it off in a strange
'manner, without shipping: for they cast in huge hundles of bul-
Tushes fastened close together, upon which three or more of them
place themselves, two of whom ply the oars that are fastened to the
bulrushes, and the third carries a bow and arrows to defend themselves
against such as attempt to make up to them from the opposite shore,
or to offer them any violence. As soon as they come to the brim-
stone, they get upon it, and hew it in pieces with axes, as pieces of
stone out of a soft rock; and so, loading the bulrush boat, they row
back. If any fall into the water, through the deficiency of the boat,
he never sinks, as in other waters, though he knows not how to swim,
but lies upon the water as if he were the best swimmer in the world:
for this lake naturally bears up any thing that has either a vegetative
or an animal life; and even such things as are solid, and seem to be
without pores, as silver, gold, lead, or the like, are also much longer
and slower in sinking than when they are cast into other waters.
And this profit and advantage the barbarians reap from it: they
transport this pitch into Egypt, and there sell it, for the use of em-
balming the dead; for, if they do not mix this with other aromatic
spices, the bodies cannot be preserved long from putrefaction.
Antigonus, at the return of Demetrius, having heard the relation
of his voyage, blamed him for making peace with the Nabathæans,
saying that those barbarous people, having so escaped, would there-
upon grow more insolent than before, concluding that they were not
favoured out of love or compassion of the conqueror, but in despair
of the conquest; but he commended him for discovering the Lake
Asphaltites, seeing that from thence he might raise some yearly re-
venue to himself, and made Hieronymus Cardianus, the historian, his
treasurer for that revenue, and commanded him to build ships, and
gather together all the bitumen, or liquid brimstone, that could be
get out of that lake: but Antigonus in the event was frustrated of
his hopes; for the Arabians, coming together to the number of six
• The Balm of Gilead.
Vol. 2. No. 45.
FFE
402
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
thousand men, fell upon them as they were in their ships, gather-
ing this brimstone, and shot them almost all to death with their ar-
rows; whereby Antigonus lost all hopes of making any standing
revenue that way, and forbore all further prosecution of that design,
both upon account of the miscarriage already experienced, and like-
wise because that he had matters of greater weight and concern then
in his head,
For about that time a courier came, and brought letters to bim
from Nicanor, governor of Media, and others, that Seleucus was re-
turned, and prospered in those parts: whereupon Antigonus, being
much concerned for the upper provinces, sent his son Demetrius,
with five thousand Macedonian foot, and ten thousand mercenaries,
and four thousand horse, with charge that he should march to the
very walls of Babylon, and, having recovered that province, should
from thence march down to the sea. Demetrius hereupon departed
from Damascus in Syria, and went vigorously on to fulfil his father's
command. But Patrocles, whom Seleucus had made president of
Babylon, as soon as he heard that Demetrius was marching into
Mesopotamia, not daring to stay his coming, (because he had but a
small power about him), commanded the rest to leave the city, and
that, passing the Euphrates, they should fly some into the desert,
others over the Tigris into the province of Susa, and to the Persian*
Sea; and he himself, with a company which he had about him, trust.
ing in the bars of the rivers and dykes of the country thereabouts,
instead of so many fortresses and bulwarks for his defence, kept him-
self still within the bounds of his own government, and studied how
to entrap his enemy, sending ever and anon tidings to Seleucus in
Media how things went with him, and desiring aid to be speedily sent
to him.
Demetrius, when he came to Babylon, and found the city itself.
void of inhabitants, began presently to besiege the forts and castles
that were therein; and, having taken one of them, gave the spoil
thereof to his soldiers: but, having besieged the other for some days
together, he departed in haste, leaving Archelaus, one of his trusty
friends, to maintain the siege, with five thousand foot and a thousand
horse; and he himself, seeing the time run out which his father had
appointed him to finish his work in, returned with the rest of the army
into the Lesser Asia.
While those things were acting, the wars between the Romans and
the Samnites continued still in Italy, wherein there were daily excur..
sions into one another's territories, besieging of cities, and encamping
of armies, on both sides: for the contest between the most warlike
• The Red Sea in the Greek, but mistook,
a
Chap. VI.
403
DIODORUS SICULUS.
pations of Italy was, wbich should gain the empire and sovereign
command of the whole, upon which account many great battles were
fought.
At length the consuls of Rome, with a part of their forces, en-
camped in the face of the enemy, watching for a fit opportunity to
fall upon them, by which means they preserved their confederate
cities from anmoyance and disturbance by the enemy. With the
rest of the army Quintus Fabius the dictator took Fretomanum, and
carried away the persons of greatest quality that were enemies to the
Romans, to the number of upwards of two hundred, and brought them
to Rome, and exposed them as a public spectacle in the forum; and
when he had scourged them, according to the Roman custom, he cut
off their heads. He made likewise an inroad into the enemy's terri-
tories, and took Celia, and the citadel of Nota*, with abundance of
spoil, and divided a great part of the country by lot amongst the
soldiers. The Romans hereupon, encouraged with these successes,
which happened according to their hearts desire, sent a colony into
the island called Pontiat.
As for Sicily, after that Agathocles had made peace with the Sici-
lians, except the Messanians, the refugees of Syracuse all Alocked to
Messana, because they perceived that to be the only city which stood
out against him. Agathocles therefore with all speed made it his
business to break their confederacy, and to that end sent away Pasi-
philus, his general, with an army to Messana, with private instructions
to do what he thought fit, and most agreeable to the circumstances
of affairs as he should find them; hereupon he entered the country
on a sudden, and, after he had taken many prisoners, and got much
spoil, he solicited the Messanians to peace and amity, and that they
would not suffer themselves so to be led aside as to join with the im.
placable enemies of Agathocles.
Upon which the Messanians, hoping to extricate themselves out of
the war without fighting, cast out all the Syracusan fugitives, and re-
ceived Agathocles with his army into the city; who at the first carried
himself very courteously and obligingly towards all, and courted them
to admit those exiles that were in his army (and had been by them, ac-
cording to law, formerly banished) into the freedom and liberties of
the city.
But afterwards he sent for such out of Taurominium and Messana
as formerly had opposed his government, and put them all to death,
to the number of six hundred; for, intending to make war upon the
A city in Campania, in Italy.
1. Pontiæ Insulæ, in the Tuscan Sea. Plin. lib. 3, c. 6. Parcin, an island in the
same aca, commonly called Porce.
404
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
Carthaginians, he resolved to rid himself of every thing that looked
like an enemy in Sicily. The Messanians therefore, seeing their
chief citizens cut off that opposed the tyrant, and that they them-
selves had driven those strangers out of the city that wished them
so well, and who would have been their main strength against him,
and had been compelled to receive those who had formerly been con-
demned for their notorious crimes, much repented themselves of
what they had done; but, out of fear of the power of the conqueror,
they were forced to stoop.
Thence he moved in the first place towards Agrigentum, design-
ing to make a prey also of this city; but because the Carthaginians
were there lately arrived with a fleet of sixty sail, he desisted and
left off that project, but wasted and harassed the territories of the
Carthaginians, and took some of their forts and castles by storm, and
gained others by capitulation.
Among these turmoils Dinocrates, captain of the Syracusan ex-
iles, sent to desire aid of the Carthaginians before Agathocles had
brought all Sicily under his sovereign command; he himself receive
ed all those exiles which the Messanians had banished the city, and
having now a very great army, sent Nymphodorus, one of his prin-
cipal friends, with part of the army to the city of the Centuripians;
for this place being a garrison of Agathocles, some of the citizens
had undertaken to betray it, upon condition they should he suffered
to govern according to their own laws. Upon this encouragement,
therefore, breaking into the city in the night, the chief commanders
of the garrison presently took the alarm, and killed both Nymphodo-
rus and all the rest that had entered within the walls. Agathocles
made use of this as an occasion and ground to accuse the Centuripi-
ans of contrivances against his government, and cut the throats of
all those whom he supposed to be the ringleaders of the defection.
While he was thus employed the Carthaginians entered the port
at Syracuse with a fleet of fifty sail, but all that they did there was
the sinking of two transport ships (one of which belonged to the A-
thenians) and cutting off the hands of all those that were on board:
which was looked upon as a piece of extreme cruelty towards those
who never offered them the least injury; and God made this present-
ly to appear: for soon after some ships that were forced from the
rest of the fleet about Brutia fell into the hands of Agathocles, where
those Carthaginians that were taken received the same punishment
as they had inflicted on their prisoners.
But Dinocrates, commander of the exiles, having with him above
three thousand foot and two thousand horse, seized upon Galata, (as
it is called), invited thither by the inhabitants, and cast out those
а
Chap. VII.
405
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that sided with Agathocles, and then encamped before the walls of
the city.
Agathocles presently sent against him Pasiphilus and Demophilus,
with five thousand men, who fought with the refugees; whose cap-
tains were Denocrates and Philonides, who commanded separately
in the two wings. The battle was doubtful for a long time, while
both armies exerted themselves to the utmost. But Philonides be-
ing slain, that wing fled, and Dinocrates was thereupon forced like-
wise to give ground, and Pasiphilus killed many of them in the pur-
suit, and recovered Galata, and put the authors of the defection to
death.
Agathocles receiving intelligence of what was done, resolved to
fall upon the Carthaginians with his whole army, who had then pos-
sessed themselves of the hill at Gela, called Ecnomos *. To that
end, without any further delay he made up to them, and as soon as
he came near, offered them battle, being puffed up with the success
of his late victory. But the barbarians durst not engage, and there-
upon, supposing he was absolute master of the field without fighting,
he returned to Syracuse, and adorned the chiefest temples there with
the spoils. And these were the actions of this year as far forth as
is needful for us to give an account.
.
CHAP. VII.
Cassander, Ptolemy, and Lysimachus, make peace with Antigonus,
Cassander murders Roxana and her son, The governors take
the title of kings upon them. The Carthaginians raise forces a-
gainst Agathocles. Four thousand Gelans murdered by Aga-
thocles. The battle between Agathocles and Amilcar the Car-
thaginian, at Himera. Agathocles routed. Several cities revolt
from Agathocles.
WHEN Simonides was lord-chancellor of Athens, and the Romans
had created Marcus Valerius and Publius Decius consuls, Cassander,
Ptolemy, and Lysimachus made peace with Antigonus, the form of
which was put into writing, and contained the terms following: -
* That is, wicked,
406
Book XIX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
That Cassander should be the sovereign lord of all in Europe, until
Alexander, the son of Roxana, came to full age; that Lysimachus
should have the chief command in Thrace; Ptolemy should enjoy
the sovereign power in Egypt, and the bordering cities in Arabia
and Africa; that Antigonus should be lord of all Asia; and the
Greeks should govern according to their own laws. But these con-
ditions they observed not long; but every one took one occasion or
another to encroach upon more than he was justly entitled to.
Cassander seeing that Alexander, the son of Roxana, now grew up
towards man's estate, and hearing how it was the discourse of some
throughout all Macedonia, that it was now fit the young man should
be freed from his prison, and assume the government of his father's
kingdom into his own hands; out of fear of being supplanted com-
manded Glaucias, the keeper, to murder both Roxana and the king,
and to hide their bodies when he had done, and by all means possi-
ble to conceal their deaths. This he effectually executed, and so by
this means Cassander, Lysimachus, Ptolemy, and Antigonus him-
self, were freed from all grounds of fear upon the account of the
king. For now all the seed royal being extinct, and no successor
remaining, every one of the captains who had possessed themselves
of provinces or cities took upon themselves the titles and stiles of
kings; and every one claimed the province, of which he was gover-
nor, as a conquered kingdom. And thus stood the affairs in Europe,
Asia, Greece, and Macedonia.
In Italy, the Romans marched with a great body of horse and
foot against Pollitium, a city of the Marucci ; where they removed
part of the citizens and made them a new colony, giving them Ite-
ramna (as it is called) to inhabit.
In Sicily, the power of Agathocles increased every day, his forces
growing stronger and stronger. Whereupon the Carthaginians be-
ing informed that he had gained almost all the towns and cities
through the island, and that their captains and commanders there
were not able to cope with him, they resolved to pursue the war with
more vigour. To this end they forthwith provided a fleet of a hun-
dred and thirty sail of men of war, and made Amilcar (a person of
eminent quality) general, and delivered to him two thousand soldiers
raised out of the city, amongst whom many were men of note; out
of Africa, ten thousand; from Tyrrhenia a thousand mercenaries
and two bundred charioteers; and a thousand slingers from the Ba-
leares*. They provided likewise a great treasure, all sorts of wea-
pons, store of corn, and all other things necessary for carrying on the
-Three islands in the Mediterranean, moderuly called Majorca, Minorca,
and Yvica.
a
Chap. VII.
107
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
war, as they had occasion to use. And now when the whole fleet
had hoisted sail and were come to the open sea, on a sudden a vio-
lent storm arose, which sunk sixty of the gallies, and broke in pieces
two hundred of the ships laden with corn and provisions. The rest
of the fleet, after much hardship at sea, with great difficulty got into
Šicily. Many of the inost eminent men of Carthage were lost at this
time, which occasioned a public lamentation in that city. For when
any misfortunë happens to that place greater than ordinary, theis
custom is to cover the walls with black cassocks or cloaks.
Amilcar the general, after he had landed, mustered those that
were saved from the storm; and, to supply those that were lost, in-
listed foreigo mercenaries, and raised others from among the confe-
derates throughout Sicily, whom he incorporated with the rest of the
forces that were there before; and, carefully providing every thing
that was necessary for the war, he kept the army in the field, having
under his command about forty thousand foot, and nearly five thou-
sand horse. Therefore, having in a short time recruited himself,
and being accounted a man of great reputation for honesty and inte-
grity, he not only revived the courage of the confederates, but io no
smalí degree struck a terror into the hearts of his enemies.
On the other hand, Agathocles perceiving that he was greatly
overpowered by the Carthaginians in number of their forces, con-'
cluded, that many of the forts and castles, and those cities and towns
that bore him a grudge, would revolt to the enemy; be especially
he
suspected the city of Gela, because he understood that all the forces
of the enemy were encamped in their territories. And besides, no
small detriment befel him at this time in his fleet, for about twenty
sail, which then happened to be at sea, with all their men, fell into
the hands of the Carthaginians. However, he conceived it fit to put
a garrison into the place for its security, but durst not bring any for-
ces openly into the city, lest the inhabitants should prevent him,
who had not then at any time before any occasion offered them to re.
bel, and so by that means he might come to lose a town which had
been very useful and serviceable to him. Therefore, to prevent şus-
picion, he sent soldiers into the city by degrees, a few at a time, (as
if they had come there for other purposes), till he had got so many
into the town as far exceeded the citizens in number. And then a
while after he came thither himself, and charged the Gelans with
a traiterous design to revolt; however, whether this were true or not,
or that they were falsely accused by the exiles, or that his design was
to scrape and get together what money he could, he put to death a-
bout four thousand of the Gelans, and confiscated all their estates;
and threatened with death all the rest who did not bring forth all
a
408
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
their money, whether gold or silver, coined or uncoined. Where-
upon all (out of fear of this thundering edict) forthwith obeyed his
command; whereby he heaped together a vast treasure, and became
a terror to all his subjects. And though he was judged to act with
too much cruelty and severity towards the Gelans, yet he ordered
them to be decently buried without the walls; and then leaving the
city with a strong garrison, encamped over against the enemy. The
Carthaginians possessed the hill Ecnomos, where formerly stood the
castle of Phaleris, as is reported, where they say the tyrant had the
brazen bull contrived to torment offenders, by putting fire under it,
thereby causing it to grow scorching hot by degrees. And therefore,
by reason of this horrid cruelty executed upon poor miserable crea-
tures, the hill was called Ecnomos*. Agathocles possessed himself
of another castle of Phaleris over against them, which he called Pha-
lereus; between both armies lay a river, which was a defence and
bulwark on both sides. There was an ancient prophecy that a great
battle should be fought, and multitudes of men destroyed about this
place; and it being uncertain on which side the slaughter should
mainly fall, out of a superstitious awe of the gods, the armies were
more backward and slow to engage; and therefore neither party, for
a long time, durst pass the river with their whole forces, till a sud-
den and unexpected occasion forced them to fight. For the Africans
making a sudden incursion upon the enemy, stirred up Agathocles to
do the same: For when the Greeks were driving away their 'cattle,
and some carriage-horses and other beasts out of the camp, some
sallied out from among the Carthaginians to pursue them. But A-
gathocles, perceiving what the enemy would do, had before laid an
ambuscade of stout and resolute men near the river, who, as soon as
the Carthaginians liad passed the river, and were in pursuit of those
that were driving away the cattle, rose out of the ambush, and fell on
them as they were in disorder, and easily routed them and put them
to flight. While the barbarians were thus hewed down, and flying
to their camp, Agathocles, looking upon it now as a fit time to en-
gage, led forth his army against the enemy; and, falling upon them
on a sudden, presently filled up a part of their trench and cut through
their breast-work, and so forced their camp. The Carthaginians,
,
amazed at this sudden attack, having no time to put themselves in
order of battle, fell in as fortune led them, and engaged the enemy
in the best manner they could: and in regard the hottest work was
near the trench, the ground all thereabout was strewed with dead
bodies; for the chiefest of the Carthaginians made to the defence of
that place where they saw the camp entered.
* Signifying the wicked place.
a
Chap. VII.
409
DIODORUS SICULUS.
On the other hand, the Agathocleans encouraged by the happy
success of their attempt, and supposing they should put an end to
the war by this one battle, pressed resolutely upon the barbarians:
Amilcar, therefore, perceiving that his men were too weak, and that
the Grecians were continually pouring in more men into the camp,
brings up a thousand slingers of the islands Baleares who wounded
many by the multitude of great stones thrown out of their slings,
and killed many that were forcing into the camp, and broke in pieces
the shields and armour of many of their assailants. For these men
being used to cast stones of three pounds weight, were always very
serviceable, and contributed much in several battles to the gaining
of the victory, as being those that were diligently taught and well ex-
ercised in the art of slinging from their very childhood. And now
at this time they gained the point, driving the Grecians back again
beyond the out-works of the camp. But Agathocles broke into it in
other places; and, just as the camp was forced, unexpectedly suc-
cours arrived from Carthage, which again revived the spirits of the
Carthaginians, and those in the camp fought the enemy in the front,
and the new supplies hemmed in the Greeks in the rear, and hewed
them down; thus the fortune of the day turned suddenly and unex-
pectedly. For the Grecians fled outright, some to the river Himera,
and others to their own camp, which was forty furlongs distant;
and being a plain and cbampain country, they were pursued with no
fewer than five thousand of the barbarian horse, so that the plain all
along was covered with dead bodies, the river contributing much to
the destruction of the Greeks. For the pursuit being about noon,
and in the dog-days, many of them that fled were so parched with
thirst, by the heat of the weather and the fatigue of the flight, that
they greedily filled themselves with salt-water, insomuch that as ma-
ny (who had not the least hurt) were found dead near the river as
were killed by the sword in the pursuit. There were killed of the
barbarians in this battle about five hundred, but no fewer than seven
thousand of the Greeks.
Agathocles being thus grievosuly defeated, after he had received all
those that had escaped, burnt his camp and went to Gela. But he
bad caused it to be rumoured abroad, that he was gone away for Sy-
racuse. It happened that three hundred African horse, then in the
country, fell in among some of Agathocles's soldiers, who told them
that Agathocles was gone back to Syracuse, and thereupon the horse-
men entered Gela as friends; but, being thus deluded, they were all
killed by darts. Yet Agathocles shut not himself up in Gela, be-
cause he could not get safe to Syracuse, but that he might divert the
Carthaginians from Syracuse to the besieging of Gela, that so by
Vol. 2, No. 45.
CGG
410
Book XIX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that means the Syracusans might have leisure enough to get in their
harvest, while he protracted the time at Gela. Amilcar indeed at
the first intended to have besieged Gela, but hearing that there was
there a strong body of men to oppose bim, and that Agathocles was
furnished with plenty of all things necessary, he laid aside that de-
sign, and made his approaches to the forts and castles, and had
them all surrendered to him; and, to gain the good opinion of the
Sicilians, he carried himself courteously and obligingly towards all.
The Camareans, Leontines, Cataneans, and Taurominians sent con-
tinually ambassadors, and made their applications to the Carthagini-
ans. And, a little time after, the Messanians and Abacenians, and
many other cities who before were at variance amongst themselves,
all went over to Amilcar; such was the zeal of the common people
after the late defeat, through the hatred they bore against the tyrant.
But Agathocles led away all the forces that were yet left him to
Syracuse, and there repaired the ruinous parts of the walls, and got
in all the corn and fruits out of the fields; and now contrived to
leave a strong garrison for the defence of the city, and to transport
the power and strength of the army into Africa, with an intent to
draw the war out of the island into the continent. We shall there-
fore, as we at first designed, begin the following book with the pass-
ing of Agathocles into Africa.
411
DIODORUS SICULUS.
BOOK XX.
PREFACE.
THOSE who stuff their histories with long and tedious harangues,
or are constantly setting forth their works in rhetorical expressions,
are, not without just cause, to be blamed. For besides that it inter-
rupts and cuts off the natural course of the history by an unseasona-
ble introduction of set and contrived speeches, it likewise gives an
unpleasant check to the earnest expectation of such as are eager to
kuow the issue of the matters of fact. Yet it is no ways to be dis-
approved for such as desire to be cried up for eloquent orators, to
compose public orations and speeches made by ambassadors, and pa-
negyrics of praise and dispraise, and such like. For they that ma-
nage both parts well and distinctly in a modest stile are justly to be
praised and commended in both kinds of the discourse. But there
are some who so over-abound in rhetorical flourishes, that they make
their whole history but as an appendix as it were to the other. For
such a tedious manner of writing is not only troublesome, but, in
this respect likewise, is to be condemned. That although the writer
seem in other things to have hit the mark, yet by this kind of writing
he seems to straggle and wander from the due course both of time
and place; and therefore they who read such sort of writings, partly
pass over such artificial and framed discourses, though they be ever
so apt and fit to the purpose; and partly tired out with the tedious
and unseasonable digression of the author, leave off reading altoge-
ther. For the nature of history is simple, and in every part agreea-
ble to itself, like to the body of a living creature, where the cutting
off of one member is the deformity of the whole. On the other side,
that which is duly and orderly composed keeps within its proper
412
Book XX,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
bounds, and the coherence of the whole affords a clear and pleasant
view and understanding of the matter in the reading.
However, we do not abandon altogether rhetoric and oratorical
flourishes out of history: for, because that it ought to be adorned
with variety, it is absolutely necessary in some places to insert these
speeches and orations. And I myself would not be deprived making
use of them upon such occasions; and, therefore, when the circum-
stances of the matter related are such as that the speech of an am-
bassador, or the harangue of a senator, or the like, fall in naturally
and easily, he that does not then put himself forth to the utmost in
this kind deserves justly to be censured and condemned,
A man may be able to give many reasons why rhetorical adorn-
ments are often to be made use of. For amongst quaiot and elo-
quent discourses, such as are worthy remark, and bring profit and
advantage along with them together with the history, are hy no
means to be passed over: or when the subject treated of is high and
lofty, of things famous and remarkable, then it is very unbecoming,
and not in the least to be endured, that the manner of expression
should sink meanly below the greatness of the acts related. It may
be likewise necessary when some extraordinary event happens, so as
that we are forced to make use of words adapted to the occasion, in
order to clear up and make plain the dark and intricate grounds and
reasons of such an accident. But what we have said of these things
shall suffice, and we will now proceed to the relation of those affairs
we before designed, first observing the time where we are now fallen
in the course of our history. In the former books we have treated
of the affairs both of the Greeks and barbarians from the most an-
tient times till the year next preceding the expedition of Agathocles
into Africa : from the sacking of Troy to which time are run up
eight hundred and eighty-three years, and something more. In this
book we shall go on with things next in course, and coherent with
the former relation, and begin with the descent of Agathocles into
Africa, and end with that year wherein the kings agreed to join toge-
ther in a common war against Antigonus, the son of Philip, compre-
hending the transactions of nine years.
1
Chap. I.
413
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. I.
Agathocles designs to invade Africa. His cruelty pursued in his
voyage. An eclipse of the Sun very great. Lands in Africa.
Burns his ships. His successes in Africa. Hanno and Bomil-
car made generals in Africa. Battle between them and Agatho-
cles, who routs them; kills Hanno. His stratagem by owls
The cruel superstition of the Carthaginians in sacrificing their
children. The actions at Syracuse. Actions of Agathocles in
Africa. The acts of Cassander in Macedonia. Polyperchon
endeavours to restore Hercules, the son of Alexander. The
miserable destruction of Nicocles and his family at Cyprus.
The wars of Parisades's sons, king of the Cimmerian Bospho-
The valour of Satyrus, one of the sons; his death. The
sad death of Eumelus, another of the sons.
rus.
IN the chancellorship of Hieromnemones at Athens, and the con-
sulship of Caius Julius and Quintus Æmilius at Rome; Agathocles,
being routed at Himera in Sicily by the Carthaginians, and having
lost the greatest and best part of his army, fled to Syracuse; where
perceiving that he was forsaken by all his confederates, and that the
barbarians had got into their hands almost all Sicily (except Syra-
cuse), and that they far overpowered him by their forces both by
sea and land, undertook a very rash and desperate adventure. For
when all were of opinion that it was not advisable for him in the
least to endeavour to contend with the Carthaginians, he even then
tesolved to leave a strong garrison in the city, and with the choicest
of the rest of his forces to make a descent into Africa; and by that
means he hoped, by his old and experienced soldiers, easily to van-
quish the Carthaginians, who (through a long peace) were grown
soft and delicate, and unexpert in their arms; and besides hereby he
thought that their confederates, who had been for a long time very
uneasy under the yoke of their government, would take an occasion
to revolt. And what most induced him was, that by this sudden and
unexpected invasion he should load himself with the spoils of a coun-
try that was never before harassed, and that abounded in the conflu-
ence of all sorts of worldly blessings. And to sum up all, that he
should by this course draw the barbarians, not only out of his own
$
414
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
a
country, but out of all Sicily, and transfer the war entirely over into
Africa, which happened aecordingly.
For, without advising with any of his friends, he made Antander,
his brother, governor of the city, leaving with him a considerable gar-
sison; he himself listed what soldiers he thought fit for his purpose,
ordering his foot to be ready with arms at the first call, and com-
manded the horsemen, that besides arms, they should every one car-
Jy along with him a saddle and bridle, that whenever he could get
horses he might have those ready to mount them who were furnished
with all things necessary for that purpose.
For in the late battle most of his foot were cut off, but most of his
horse escaped; but their horses he could not transport into Africa.
And to prevent all stirs and commotions (in order to a defection)
in Syracuse in his absence, he divided kindred and relations one from
another, especially brothers from brothers, and parents from children,
taking some along with him and leaving others behind: and he acted
in this very wisely; for, certain it was, that those who remained in
Syracuse, although they hated the tyrant, yet would attempt nothing
to his prejudice, by reason of their natural love and affection to their
children, and near relations, and kindred. And because he was in
great want of money, he took the estates of infants out of the hands
of their guardians; declaring, that he would have a far greater care
of them than they had, and be more faithful in giving them an ac-
count, and making restitution when they came to full age. He bor-
rowed likewise much from the merchants, and converted to his own
use some of the sacred treasures of the temples; and took the jewels
and ornaments from the women's backs.
Whereupon, discerning that the richer sort were highly displeas-
ed and incensed at this usage, and for that reason hated him, he call-
ed a general assembly, in which he greatly lamented the late over-
throw, and the dreadful calamities that from thence seemed to hang
over their heads. He told them, that he indeed was inured to hard-
ships, could easily endure the miseries of a siege; but that he should
- greatly pity the citizens if they should be blocked up and forced to
undergo the like. Therefore he ordered those that were not willing
to suffer what might be their fortune and lot, to provide for the safe-
ty of themselves and their estates. Upon which, the most wealthy
citizens (who bore a most implacable hatred against him) forthwith
left the city: but he presently sent out some of his mercenaries af-
ter them, and cut all their throats, and confiscated their estates,
And thus, when by one and the same act he had both enriched him-
self, and likewise purged the city of those that were his enemies, he
manumitted all the slaves and servants that were fit to bear as
1
Chap. I.
415
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and now, having all things in readiness, and being furnished with a
fleet of sixty sail, he only waited for a fair wind. His design being
not commonly known, some reported that he intended an expedition
into Italy, others that he purposed to waste and destroy that part of
Sicily which belonged to the Carthaginians; to conclude, every body
gave them (who were ready to sail) all up for lost men, and con-
demned the folly and madness of the prince. The enemy at that time
had a fleet far exceeding him in number in the harbour, therefore he
was forced for some days at the first to lie still with his men on
board, because he had not an opportunity to set sail. Afterwards
some transport-ships laden with corn making with full sail towards
the city, the Carthaginians pursued them with their whole fleet:
whereupon Agathocles, (before almost in despair of accomplishing his
design), as soon as he saw the mouth of the harbour open, causing the
rowers to ply their oars with all the quickuess imaginable, broke out
of the harbour.
The Carthaginians being now come up near to the transport-ships,
and seeing a fleet of their enemy's ships sailing out of the harbour,
thought at first that they came to secure and defend the corn-ships;
whereupon they tacked about, and prepared to fight: but when they
saw that they directed their course straight forward, and were far be-
fore them, they pursued them with all the sail they could; and,
while these were striving to outsail each other, the transport-ships
unexpectedly escaped the danger, and plentifully supplied the city,
which was before in great straits for want of corn and provisions.
Agathocles also, though closely pursued by the enemy, by the ad-
vantage of the night, (beyond all hope), got safe off from them*.
The next day, there was such an eclipse of the sun, that the stars
appeared every where in the firmament, and the day was turned in-
to night: upon which Agathocles's soldiers (conceiving that God
thereby did foretel their destruction) fell into great perplexities and
discontents concerning what was likely to befal them. Having,
therefore sailed six days and six nights, early in the morning they
suddenly espied the Carthaginian fleet making up close upon them:
upon which all set themselves to it with might and main to ply their
oars: the Carthaginians concluding, that together with the ships
they should not only take all the Syracusans prisoners, but should
deliver their country from the present imminent danger: the Gre-
cians, on the other hand, saw apparent destruction to themselves be-
fore their eyes, and intolerable bondage and slavery to all their kin-
dred and relations they had left at home, if they did not recover the
shore before the enemy. And now Africa was in view, when all
• Ibis was on the 15ih of August. --Ush. Ann. p. 323. '
416
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
the sailors and rowers called out earnestly one to another to exert
themselves, so that the strife and pains to get to land was incredible.
The barbarians indeed were more swift sailers, because they were
more accustomed to the sea than the others; but the Grecian ships
kept still a considerable distance before them: making therefore a-
way with all the expedition imaginable, when they came near the
shore, they leaped out of their ships in throngs upon the strand, as
if they had been contending for the mastership at the Gymnastic
games: for the first squadron of the Carthaginian fleet was come up
within a dart's cast of those in the rear of the Grecian fleet. After,
therefore, some contest for a while with their bows and slings, (a
few only of the barbarians' ships being come up), Agathocles (over-
powering the other by number) gained the advantage; whereupon
the Carthaginians tacked about, and stood off a little above the cast
of a dart. Hereupon Agathocles presently landed his men at a place
called the Quarries, and drew a breast-work for the security of his
shipping all along from sea to sea; and, after he had effected this
bold and daring attempt, he set about another far more dangerous:
for, calling together such of his captains and commanders as were
wholly devoted to him, he first sacrificed to Ceres and Proserpina,
and then called a council of war; where, coming into the assembly
to make his harangue, splendidly clothed in royal robes, and with his
crowa upon his head, (after a few things premised, to make an in-
troduction to what he had further to say), he told them_That at the
time they were pursued by the Carthaginians he had made a vow to
the goddesses Ceres and Proserpina, the protectresses of Sicily, that
he would consecrate all the ships in the feet to them, by burning
them all into so many burning lamps; and therefore, since they were
now safe, and were delivered, it was just and fit that they should pay
their vows; and he promised, that if they fought courageously, he
would return them far more than those ships they then had: for the
gods by the sacrifices did foretel, that they should be conquerors
throughout the whole war. While he was speaking, one of his ser-
vants brought him a lighted firebrand, which catching hold of, and
commanding the like to be delivered to the rest of the captains, he
invoked the goddesses, and was the first that made to the admiral's
vessel, and, standing upon the stern, commanded the rest to follow
his example: whereupon all the captains of the vessels set fire to
their ships, and forthwith the flame mounted aloft, the trumpets
sounded a charge, and the whole army set up a shout, and all as one
man offered up their joint prayers to the gods for their safe return to
their own country. And all this was done by Agathocles, that he
might necessitate his soldiers to fight, without ever thinking of turn-
Chap. 1.
417
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ing their backs: for it was plain that, having no shipping left for
their last refuge, they could not have the least hope of safety in any
thing but by being absolute conquerors. Then he considered, that,
having but a small army, if he would guard his fleet he must be
forced to divide it, and so should not be strong enough to venture a
battle; and, if he left the ships without any guard, they would all fall
into the hands of the Carthaginians. However, while the whole
navy was on fire, and the flame spread itself round at a great dis-
tance, the hearts of the Sicilians quaked: for at first, being deluded
by the juggling tricks of Agathocles, and the quickness of execution
giving them no time to consider, they all consented to what was
done: but when they had leisure distinctly to weigh every particu-
lar, they repented themselves of what they had done; and, pondering
in their minds the vastness of the sea by which they were separated
from their own country, they utterly despaired of their safety and
preservation. Agathocles therefore, designing as soon as possibly
he could to cure this pusilanimity in his soldiers, led his army to the
great city* (as it is called) within the dominions of the Carthaginians.
The whole country through which they marched was beautified with
gardens planted with all sorts of fruit-trees, and sluices and canals
were cut all along for the convenience of water, by which that whole
tract was every where abundantly watered. This part of the country
was likewise full of towns and villages, adorned with stately houses,
the roofs of which were curiously wrought, all setting forth the
wealth and riches of their owners. The houses were full of all man-
per of provision of every thing that was needful; for the inhabitants
(through a long peace) had stored up their treasures in great abun-
dance. The country is planted partly with vines, and partly with
olive-trees, and furnished likewise with many other fruit-trees: in
another part, the fields are pastured with flocks of sheep, and herds
of cows and oxen; and in the neighbouring fens run great numbers of
breeding mares. And what shall I say more? Those places abound-
ed with plenty of all things for the use of man, and the rather so,
because they were the possessions of the nobility of Carthage, who
laid out much of their estates and wealth with more than ordinary
curiosity to improve them for their delight and pleasure; so that the
fertility and sweetness of the country was the admiration of the Sici-
lians, and rouzed up their drooping spirits in the view they had of
those rewards and rich returns, which they judged were well worthy
the hazards to be run by the conquerors to obtain them. Agathocles
therefore, perceiving that his soldiers were now recovered from their
• Samatho in the Punic language, White.
VOL. 2. No. 45.
HHH
118
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.'
a
up
despair and former melancholy apprehensions, made a sudden assault
upon the walls of the city; which being so surprising and unes-
pected, and the citizens unskilful in their arms, after a short resist-
ance he took the city by storm, and gave the plunder of the town to
the soldiers, which both encouraged and enriched them at once.
Thence he forthwith moved with his army to Tunis*, and gained that
city, which is two thousand furlongs from Carthage. The soldiers
would willingly have garrisoned these two cities, having stored and
laid in them the plunder they had got: but Agathocles weighing
what was most expedient in his present circumstances, after he had
convinced the soldiers, that it was by no means convenient to leave
any place to fly to for shelter, till they had conquered the enemy by
downright fighting, he razed the cities to the ground, and encamped
in the open field. In the mean time, the Carthaginians that lay near
to the Sicilian fleet at first greatly rejoiced when they saw their ships
all in a flame, supposing that they were constrained to burn their
pavy, out of fear of their enemies: but after they perceived them to
march forward up into the country with their whole army, and ima-
gining what they intended to do, they then concluded that the burn-
ing of the ships was a designed mischief to them: whereupon they
spread leathern hides upon the forecastles of all their ships, which
is their constant custom whenever any misfortune seems to threaten
the Carthaginian commonwealth. Moreover, they took into their
own gallies the iron beaks out of Agathocles's ships, and sent ex-
presses to Carthage, to give them a particular account of every thing
that had happened. But before these messengers reached the city,
some out of the country, who had discerned Agathocles's fleet to be
near at hand, presently ran to Carthage, to give them an account:
whereupon the citizens were so amazed at the surprising news of
such an unexpected accident, that they forth with concluded that their
armies in Sicily were utterly cut off and destroyed; for that it was not
probable that Agathocles, unless he were victorious, would dare to
leave Syracuse naked, without any garrison, or pass over his army
when at the same time his enemy was master at sea. The city there-
fore was in a great terror and confusion, and the people thronged
into the market-place, and the senate met together to consult what
was fit to be done in the present exigency: for they had no army at
hand wherewith to fight the enemy; besides, the common citizens
being raw and ignorant in matters of war, were altogether heartless,
and every body thought that the enemy was then just at their walls.
Some therefore were for sending ambassadors to Agathocles, to proa
• White Tunis.
Chap. 1.
419
DIODORUS SICULUS.
pose terms of peace, who might likewise at the same time discover
the posture of the enemy; others were for waiting till they should
have perfect intelligence of every thing that was done.
While the city was in this hurry and perplexity arrived those that
were sent from the admiral of the fleet, and declared to them all that
was done: whereupon their courage revived; and the senate blamed
all the officers of the fleet, that, being masters at sea, they should be
so careless as to suffer the enemy's forces to make a descent upon
Africa; and they created Hanno and Bomilcar generals of their ar-
my, notwithstanding they were at private feuds between themselves,
and that antient grudges had been in their families one towards ano-
ther. For they thought that these private quarrels would tend much
to the common advantage of the city. But they were very much
inistaken: for Bomilcar had for a long time been ambitious of the
monarchy, but never yet had an opportunity fitted for his purpose to
put his designs in execution, and therefore he greedily embraced the
offer of such a command as was exactly agreeable to what he was
aiming at. And the chief cause of these plots and contrivances of
his was the severity and cruelty of the Carthaginians: for they ad-
vance the most eminent persons to be generals in their wars, be-
cause they conclude that they will fight with more resolution than
others, when all lies at stake; but after the wars are ended, and
peace concluded, then they bring false accusations against them,
and most unjustly, through envy, put them to death: and there,
fore some generals, out of fear of those unjust sentences, either give
up their commissions, or seek to become absolute monarchs, as Bo-
milcar, one of the Carthaginian generals, then did; of whom we shall
speak hereafter.
The Carthaginian generals therefore, seeing now that delays were
dangerous, waited not for soldiers to be raised out of the country, and
from the cities of their confederates, but led out the citizens them-
selves into the field, having under their command no less than forty
thousand foot, a thousand horse, and two thousand chariots; and,
possessing themselves of a hill not far from the enemy, drew up in
battalia. Hanno commanded the right wing, supported by those of
the sacred brigade: Bomilcar the left, making his phalanx very deep,
because the nature of the place would not allow him to extend his
wing further in front; the chariots and horsemen he placed in the
van, to the end that with these, at the first charge, they might try
the courage of the Greeks. Agathocles, on the other side, viewing
how the barbarians had drawn up their army, committed the right
wing to Archagathus, his son, delivering to him two thousand five
hundred foot. Then he drew up about three thousand five hund.
420
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Syracusans: next to them three thousand mercenaries out of Greece;
and lastly, three thousand Samnites, Tyrrhenians, and Celtæ. He
himself, with the troops of the household, and a thousand heavy-armed
men, commanded in the left wing, opposite to the Carthaginian Sa-
cred Brigade. The archers and slingers, to the number of five huo-
dred, he mixed here and there in the two wings. The truth was, his
soldiers were scarcely all armed; and therefore, when he saw some of
those that were naked, and without arms, he took the covers and
cases of the shields, and stretched them out upon sticks in the round
shape of a shield, and so delivered them to the unarmed; however in
truth useless, yet so contrived by him, to the end that those who were
at a distance (and knew nothing of the stratagem) should look upon
thein to be armed men.
Perceiving likewise that the spirits of his soldiers were very low,
and much discouraged, by reason of the great numbers of their ene-
mies, he let out several owls (which he had before prepared for that
purpose) into divers parts of the camp, here and there, to deliver them
from their fears; which birds flying up apd down through the army,
and alighting ever and anon upon their shields and bucklers, cheered
up the spirits of the soldiers, all taking it for a very happy omen, be-
cause that creature is sacred to Minerva. These sorts of tricks and
devices, although they may seem to some to be foolish and vain, yet
they have many times been the causes of extraordinary success, as it
happened likewise at this time; for the soldiers by this means grow-
ing more bold and courageous, and it being generally noised abroad
that the goddess plainly foretold that they should be victorious, they
more resolutely underwent all dangers and difficulties: for, when the
chariots charged fiercely upon them, some they pierced through with
their darts and arrows, others they avoided and suffered to pass by,
and most of them they drove back into the midst of their own foot.
In the same manner they received the charge of their horse, wounding
many, and putting them all at last to flight.
When they had thus gallantly behaved themselves in the first
charge, the barbarians began to fall upon them with their whole body
of foot at once; upon which there was a very sharp engagement,
wherein Hanno, with that body of men called the Sacred Brigade,
(striving to win the day by his own valour), made a fierce charge up-
on the Grecians, and hewed down many of them: and, though he was
even overwhelmed with showers of darts and arrows, yet he fell not;
but, receiving one wound after another, he still went on, till, being
overpressed and altogether tired out, he fell down, and gave up his
last breath. On the other hand, Agathocles's soldiers were so lifted
up with expectations of victory, that they were still more and more
Chap. I.
421
DIODORUS SICULUS.
courageous; which when the other general Bomilcar came to under-
stand, conceiving that the gods had put an opportunity into his
hands to gain the tyranny, he reasoned with himself, that if the army
of Agathocles were destroyed, he could not mount the throne, be-
cause the city would be too strong for him: but if Agathocles were
conqueror, and by that means broke the spirits of the Carthaginians,
then, when they were brought low, he should be able to lead them
which way he would; and as for Agathocles, he concluded he should
be able to subdue him whenever he pleased. Revolving these things
in his mind, he began to face about and retreat, wishing the enemy
should take notice of what they were about to do: then telling his
soldiers that Hanno was slain, ordered them to keep their ranks and
get to a rising ground there near at hand, for that was now the last
course for them to take. But the retreat looking like a complete
flight, the enemy pressed so close upon them, that the Africans who
were in the rear, supposing that those who were in the front of the
battle were routed, likewise fled.
· In the mean time, those in the sacred brigade fought bravely for a
while after the death of Hanno, and resolutely pressed forward upon
the enemy over the carcasses of their fellow soldiers; but when they
perceived that most of their army was fled, and that the enemy was
surrounding them at their backs, they were forced likewise to give
way and begone.
The whole Carthaginian army being thus put to flight, the barba-
rians made towards Carthage; whom Agathocles pursued but a little
a
way, and then returned, and took the pillage of the field. In this
battle were slain two hundred Grecians, and not above a thousand
Carthaginians, though some have written above six thousand: among
other rich spoils there were found many chariots in the Carthagini-
an camp, in which were carried above twenty thousand pair of fetters
and manacles. For, concluding that they should easily overcome
the Greeks, they agreed to make as many prisoners as they could,
to throw them into the dungeons, fettered hand and foot; but God
(I conceive) purposely sets himself by contrary events to cross the
expectations of such, who proudly before hand resolve what shall ab-
solutely be done.
Agathocles having now routed the Carthaginians both beyond their,
and even his own expectation, blocked them up within their walls;
and thus we see fortune, whose common course it is to make che.
quer-work of good and bad success, of defeats and victories in their
several turns, now humbled the conquerors as well as those that be-
fore were conquered. For the Carthaginians, after they had beaten
a
422
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Agathocles in Sicily in a great battle, besieged Syracuse; and now
Agathocles baving routed them in Africa, besieges Carthage: and
that which was most to be admired was, that this prince was beaten
by the barbarians in the island, when all his forces were with him
whole and entire; but now is victorious in the continent over the
conquerors with a piece of a broken and shattered army. The Car-
thaginians therefore concluding that this miserable misfortune was
brought upon them by the gods, they all betook themselves to prayers
and supplications to the deity; especially thinking that Hercules, the
tutelar god of their country, was angry at them, they sent a vast sum
of money, and many other rich gifts, to Tyre. For, in as much as
they were a colony which originated from them, they used in former
ages to send the tenth part of all their revenues as an offering to that
god. But afterwards, when they had grown wealthy, and their reve-
nues had greatly increased, they began to slack in their devotion, and
sent thither but a small pittance to their god. Being therefore
brought to repentance by this remarkable slaughter, they remem-
bered all the gods in Tyre. They sent likewise out of their temples,
to the images, golden shrines, supposing they should prevail the
more iu averting the anger of the god, by sending sacred gifts to
pacify him. They gave just cause, likewise, to their god Saturn, to
be their enemy! for in former times they used to sacrifice to this god
the sons of the most eminent persons; but of later times they secret-
ly bought and bred up children for that parpose: and upon strict
search being made, there were found amongst them, that were to be
sacrificed, some children that had been changed, and put in the place
of others. Weighing these things in their minds, and now seeing
that the enemy lay before their walls, they were seized with such a
pang of superstition, as if they had utterly forsaken the religion of
their fathers. That they might therefore, without delay, reform
what was amiss, they offered as a public sacrifice two hundred of the
sons of the nobility; and no fewer than three hundred more (who
were liable to censure) voluntarily offered themselves up: for among
the Carthaginians there was a brazen statue of Saturn putting forth
the palms of his hands bending in such a manner towards the earth,
as that the hoy who was laid upon them, in order to be sacrificed,
should slip off, and so fall down headlong into a deep fiery furnace.
Hence it is probable that Euripides took what he fabulously relates
concerning the sacrifice in Taurus, where he introduces Iphigenia
asking Orestes this question
But what sepulchre will me dead receive,
Slaid the gull of sacred fire shen me have?
Chap. I.
423
DIODORUS SICULUS.
The antient fable likewise that is common among all the Grecians,
that Saturn devoured his own children, seems to be confirmed by
this law among the Carthaginians.
But after this change of affairs in Africa, the Carthaginians sent to
Amilcar into Sicily to hasten over to their assistance with all speed,
and ordered that all the beaks of Agathocles's ships should be carri-
ed to him. When the messengers arrived, he commanded them not
to say aoy thing about the routing of their forces, but to spread it
abroad among the soldiers, that the fleet and land army of Agathocles
were both utterly destroyed. And he himself sent away some (who
were lately come from Carthage) to Syracuse, together with the iron
beaks, to demand the surrender of the city, and to tell them that all
their forces were cut off by the Carthaginians, and their whole navy
burnt; and that, if they would not believe them, the beaks of their
vessels (there shewed) were a sufficient evidence of the truth of
what they related. When they that were in the city heard of this
overthrow of Agathocles, many believed it: but the leading men of
the city, wishing to keep private a matter that was yet uncertain, and
to prevent tumults, forthwith dismissed the messengers, and sent
them away. They cast out of the city likewise the kindred and
friends of the exiles, and eight thousand at least of others who seem-
ed to be uneasy under the government; whereupon, when so great a
number on a sudden were forced to leave the place of their birth,
the city was full of confusion, lamentation, and crying of women
running up and down in the streets; neither was there any house at
this time which had not its share of weeping and mourning. For
they who favoured the tyrant bewailed the ruin of Agathocles, and
the loss of their sons; others wept for those of their friends whom
they supposed were all cut off in Africa; others grieved and mourn-
ed for them that were compelled to forsake their houses, and the gods
of their forefathers, and who were neither suffered to stay nor could
get well out of the city by reason of the siege. And besides these
most grievous and bitter sufferings which they laboured under, they
were compelled to fly with their wives, and drag aloug with them their
little young children; but Amilcar courteously received and secured
the exiles, and marched to Syracuse with his army, as if he should
forthwith possess himself of the city, upon account of the place being
destitute of inhabitants, and of the misery those were in (as he heard)
who were left behind: however, he sent messengers before, and pro-
mised pardon to Antander, and to all those who sided with him, if
he would deliver up the city into his hands. Upon which there was
a council of war called of those captains that were in the greatest
authority; where, after much debate on both sides of the question,
424
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Antander (who was naturally a poor spirited man, and of a weak
head, and much inferior in courage and resolution to his brother)
was in favour of delivering up the town: but Eurymnon, the Ætoli.
an, (whom Agathocles had left to assist his brother in advice and
council) was of another opinion, and prevailed with them all to hold
out till they had certain intelligence of the truth. Whereupon A-
milcar, coming to understand the resolution of the townsmen, pre-
pared all his engines with a full resolution to batter down the walls.
Agathocles, after the late battle, built two ships, each of thirty oars;
and in one of them put on board the best of his rowers, with Near-
chus, one of the most faithful friends he then had with him, and sent
them away to Syracuse, to give an account of his victory. Having
therefore a fair wind, on the fifth day (in the night) they arrived in
the harbour of Syracuse, and at break of day, crowned with garlands,
and singing the Pæan as they sailed along, they made for the city;
which being perceived by the Carthaginian guard-ships, they pursu-
ed them with all their might, and the other not being far before
them, there was a great contest between the rowers on both sides.
While the seamen were thus conteuding, both the besiegers and be-
sieged understanding the matter, ran down to the port; and each,
fearful of the event, called out and encouraged every one their own
men. And now the ship was upon the point of falling into the hands
of the pursuers, upon which the barbarians gave a shout; but the ci-
tizens not being able otherwise to assist, prayed to their gods for the
preservation of their men on board. The pursuers being now ready
to board her not far from land, she got within a dart's cast of the
shore, and by the help of the Syracusans, who came in to her relief,
narrowly escaped the danger. Amilcar perceiving that the citizens
(upon the account of the late contest, and the sudden arrival of the
intelligence expected) were all flocked down to the port; and there-
upon conceiving that part of the walls were left undefended, ordered
the stoutest of his soldiers to rear up scaling ladders; who, finding
there no guards, mounted the walls without being discerned; and
had almost possessed themselves of an entire part lying between two
towers, when they that used to go the round came just then to the
place and discovered them. Upon which they attacked them before
any relief could be brought to the assailants, so that some were kill-
ed, and others were thrown down headlong over the walls. At which
Amilcar was so mortified, that he drew off his forces from the city,
and sent away five thousand men to the relief of Carthage.
While these things were in action in Sicily, Agathocles, being
now master of the field, took some forts and castles near to Carthage
by storm; and other cities, some out of fear, and some through
Chap. I.
425
DIODORUS SICULUS.
hatred of the Carthaginians, voluntarily surrendered themselves.
Having fortified his camp near Tunis, he left there a sufficient guard,
and moved towards the towns lying upon the sea-coast; and first le
took by storm the new city, but acted very favourably towards the
inhabitants; thence he marched to Adrimetum, and besieged it, and
confederated with Elymus, king of Libya. News whereof being
brought to the Carthaginians, they bent all their arms against Tunis;
and possessed themselves of Agathocles's camp, and with their bat-
tering rams pressed upon the city with continual assaults. Agatho-
cles, receiving intelligence of the slaughter of his men, leaving the
greatest part of his army to carry on the siege, and taking with him
his life-guard and a small body of men, secretly marched up to the
top of a mountain, whence he might view the country of the Adrime-
Itines, and likewise the Carthaginians who were besieging Tunis.
In the night he commanded his soldiers to kindle fires, and with
them to occupy a large tract of ground, to the end that the Cartha-
gipians might think he was making towards them with a strong ar-
my, and that the besieged might conclude, that fresh forces in vast
numbers were come up to him to his assistance; both being deceive
ed by this stratagem, were caught in the snare; for they who besieg-
ed Tunis fled, and left their engines behind them; and the Adrime-
tines, surprised with fear, delivered up the city, which was gained,
upon certain terms agreed upon, but Thapsus he afterwards took by
storm; and he took several other cities in this quarter, some by
force, and others upon capitulation. Having at length gained in the
whole above two hundred towns and cities, he resolved upon an ex-
pedition into the higher Libya: to that end he raised his camp, and
marched on many days journey.
Then the Carthaginians marched out with those forces, besides o-
thers which were sent out of Sicily, and besieged Tunis a second
time, and recovered a great part of the country that was then in the
hands of the enemy. When couriers came from Tunis, and gave an
account of what the Carthagivians had done, Agathocles immediate-
ly returned. Being come within two hundred furlongs of the ene-
my he encamped, and commanded his soldiers not to light any fires :
then making a sudden march in the night, about day-break he fell
upon those who were wasting and harassing the country, and disor-
derly roving up and down, and killed above two thousand of them,
and took many prisoners, which was a great step to his many succes-
ses afterwards: for the Carthaginians being reinforced by their aids
from Sicily, and strengthened by their confederates in Africa,
thought they had been too strong for Agathocles: but after this mis-
Vol. 2. No. 45.
III
426
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
fortune the barbarians became quite dispirited; for he had overcome
Elymus, the king of Libya, (who had deserted him), and killed like-
wise the general, with a great number of the barbarians. And thus
stood affairs in Sicily and Africa at this time.
In Macedonia, Cassander came in to the assistance of Autoleuntes,
king of the Pæonians, who was then at war with the Autariats*, and
rescued him from the straits and dangers he was in at that time, and
transplanted the Autariats, together with their wives and children
that were then with them, to the number of twenty thousand, and
placed them near the mountain Orbitaust.
While he was thus employed, Ptolenry, Antigonus's general in Pe-
loponnesus, who was intrusted by him with an army in these parts,
(took a pique against Antigonus, thinking he was not rewarded ac-
cording to what he might justly expect), revolted and joined with
Cassander, He had left one. Phænix, one of his confederates, presi-
dent of the province adjoining to the Hellespont, and sent over some
soldiers to him, wishing him to take care of the castles and cities there,
and henceforth not regard any orders that came from Antigonus.
It was generally agreed by Alexander's captains, as part of their
articles among themselves, that the Greek cities should be all restor,
ed to their antient liberties. Therefore Ptolemy, king of Egypt,
(accusing Antigonus of having placed garrisons in several Greek
cities), prepared to make war upon him; and sent Leonides, a cap-
tain of his own, into Cilicia Aspera, and there possessed himself of
certain cities and places belonging to Antigonus; and, moreover,
sent his agent to some cities appertaining to Cassander and Lysima-
thus, that they would follow his advice, and not suffer Antigonus to
grow too fast in power.
And as for Antigonus, he sent his younger son Philip to make
war upon Phoenix, and others who had revolted from him in the
Hellespont; but he sent his son Demetrius into Cilicia, who putting
in execution what he had in command, routed the captains of Ptolemy
that were there, and recovered the cities.
While these things were doing, Polyperchon (then residing in Pe-
loponnesus) still affecting the government of Macedon, cried out a-
gainst Cassander, and sent for Hercules, a son of Alexander I by
Barsine, out of Pergamus, (now seventeen years of age), and sent
about to those who were his own friends, and enemies to Cassander,
to assist in placing this young man in his father's kingdom. fle so-
licited the Ætolians likewise by his letters to assist him in his pre-
• A people of Daimatia. + Orbelus, a Mountaip io Macedonia.
The Great
03
Chap. I.
427
DIODORUS SICULUS.
sent design; promising that they should find more grace and favour
from him than at any time before, if they would help bim to restore
the young lad to his father's throne.
All things going on to his wish, and the Ætolians complying with
his request, many others came flocking in to restore the new king,
so that there were collected together above twenty thousand foot, and
not less than a thousand horse. And thus diligently exerting him-
self in the undertaking, he raised what money he could, and sent
some to solicit his friends in Macedonia to assist him.
In the mean time, Ptolemy of Egypt liaving all Cyprus under his
command, and finding that Nicocles, the king of Paphos, held cor-
respondence under-hand with Antigonus, sent two confidents of his
own, Argaus and Callicrates, with instructions to destroy Nicocles;
for he was much afraid lest some others also should fall off, as he had
perceived many others had done before. Wherefore, passing into
Cyprus, and taking with them a certain number of soldiers from
Menelaus, who commanded the army there, they beset the house of
Nicocles; and then telling him what the king's pleasure was, advis-
ed him to dispose of himself for another world. He first began to
clear hitnself of what was laid to his charge, but when he saw that
no man hearkened to what he said, be drew his sword and slew him-
self. Axiothea, his wife, hearing of her husband's death, took her
daughters, who were all young and virgins, and cut their throats,
that they might not fall into any of the enemy's hands, and was
earnest with the wives of Nicocles's brothers to accompany her in
her own death; whereas Ptolemy had given no order concerning any
of them, save only to preserve them. The king's palace therefore
thus filled with the sudden and unexpected slaughters and dreadful
spectacles, so terrified the brothers of Nicocles, that each of them
shut himself in, and set fire to their houses, and slew themselves.
Thus the whole race of the kings of Paphos came to a tragical and
lamentable end. Having given an account of those affairs we be-
fore promised, we shall now proceed to those which follow next in
order.
About this time in Pontus", after the death of Parisades, king of
the Cimmerian Bosphorus, his sons Eumelus, Satyrus, and Prytanis,
contended one with another for the kingdom: Satyrus, the eldest,
was appointed successor by his father, who reigned eight-and-thirty
years.
Eumelus, compacting with some of the natives adjoining, raised
an army, and laid claim to the kingdom against his elder brother;
* In the Cimmeriau Dosphorus, near the Eusine sea; or in Taurus Chersonesus,
428
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of which Satyrus Leing informed, went against him with a great ar-
my, and, passing the river Thapsus, when he came near his quarters,
fortified his camp with his carts and waggons, wherein he had brought
an infinite quantity of provisions; and, ranging afterwards his army
in the field, (after the manner of the Scythian kings), he led the main
body himself. He had not in his army above two* thousand Greeks,
and as many Thracians, all the rest were Scythians, which came to
assist him, to the number of twenty thousand, and no less than ten
thousand horse. Eumelus was assisted by Ariopharnes, king of
Thrace, with twenty thousand horse, and two-and-twenty thousand
foot. Between these forces a bloody battle was fought, wherein Sa-
tyrus (who had with him a choice party of brave horse) encountered
first with Ariopharpes in a skirmish of horse, who likewise command-
ed the middle body opposite to Satyrus, where many fell on both sides;
but at length he forced his way through, and put the barbarian king
to flight, and, being the first in the pursuit, put every man to the
sword that was in his way. But when he beard that his brother Eu-
melus in the right wing had routed the mercenaries, he left off the
pursuit, and made up to the succour of those that fled, and regained
the day, and utterly bruke and routed the whole army, putting them
all to flight; so that he gave a clear testimony that he justly deserved
to wear the crown, as well upon account of his valour, as the privi-
lege of his birth.
Ariopharnes and Eumelus thus beaten, fled into the king's palacet,
which was enviroped by the river Thasis, of an exceeding depth,
so that the place was of difficult approach: it was surrounded like-
wise with steep rocks and thick woods, into which there were only
two entrances made by ari, one leading straight to the palace, de-
fended with high towers and bulwarks: the one on the other side was
made in the fens, guarded with forts and towers of timber, raised upon
pillars over the water, The place being very strong, Satyrus first
wasted the enemy's country, and burnt their towns, whence he car-
ried a vast number of prisoners, and abundance of spoil. Afterwards
he attempted to force his way through the passes; but, losing many
of his men at the bulwarks and towers, he was forced to retreat. But
making an attack upon that side towards the fens, he took the tim-
ber forts, which he demolished, and then passed the river. Upon
which he began to fell a wood, through which he must necessarily
pass to the palace; and, while these attempts were carrying on in
great earnestness, king Ariopharnes, fearing lest the castle should be
taken by storm, valiantly fell upon thein, perceiving that there was
po hopes of safety remaining but in an absolute victory. He placed
. One thousand in the margiu. t Ariopharnes's palace,
Chap. 1.
429
DIODORUS SICULUS.
likewise archers on both sides the passage, by whom he sorely galled
the fellers of the wood, because they could neither see the arrows
before they pierced them, nor come at the archers, nor return the
like upon them, by reason of the thick and close standing of the
trees. However, Satyrus's soldiers continued felling the wood, and
opening a way to the palace, for three days together, though with
great toil and hazard. The fourth day they came under the wall;
but, being worsted through showers of arrows, and straightness of the
places, they sustained very great loss: for Meniscus (who led the
mercenary companies) having got in at a passage, (though he fought
very manfully), was nevertheless (being overpowered by the multi-
tude within) forced to retreat; whom Satyrus seeing in such immi-
nent danger, came up to bim with seasonable relief, and, bearing up
against the enemy's charge, was run through the arm with a spear,
which was so sore, that it forced him to retire to his camp, and the
next night he died of the wound, having reigned scarcely nine months
after the death of Parisades, his father. Hereupon Meniscus, captain
of the mercenaries, breaking up the siege, drew off the army to a
city called Gargaza, and from thence carried the king's body down
the river, to a city called Panticapæum, to his brother Prytanis, who,
having magnificently buried it, and laid up the relicts in the king's
sepulchre, went presently to Gargaza, and there took into his hands
the army, together with the kingdom.
Hereupon came the agents of Eumelus to him to treat concerning
the parting of the kingdom hetween them two, which he would not
hearken to. Leaving therefore a strong garrison at Gargaza, he re-
turned to Panticapæum, there to settle the affairs of his kingdom.
But awhile after, Eumelus, by the help of some barbarians, possessed
himself of Gargaza, and sundry other towns and castles: whereupon
Prytanis marchied with an army against him, but was overthrown in
a battle by his brother; and, being shut up within a neck of land
near the Palus Mæotis, was forced to surrender himself upon condi-
tions, which were that he should give up all his army, and depart out of
the kingdom.
Nevertheless, when Prytanis returned to Panticapæum, which is
the place where the kings of Bosphorus keep the standing court,
he there endeavoured again to recover his kingdom; but, being
foiled there again, he fled to a place called the Gardens, and was
there slain.
Eumelus, after the death of his brother, to confirm himself in the
kingdom, put to death all the friends, wives, and children of both his
brothers, Satyrus and Prytanis; only Parisades, Satyrus's son, being
but a youth, escaped his hands: for, by the benefit of a swift horse,
430
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
he got away out of the city to Agarus, king of the Scythiaps. But
when Eumelus saw that the people repiped at the loss of their friends,
whom he had murdered, be called them all together, and there ex-
cused himself, and restored to them their antient form of government,
and to the citizens of Panticapæum their former immunities, and
promised to discharge them of all kind of tributes, sparing no fair
words which might reconcile the hearts of the people to him; by
which means having gained their good opivions, he held a just and
moderate hand over them, and grew afterwards into no small admira-
tion for all kind of virtue among them. For he omitted not to oblige
the Byzantines and Sinopians, and the rest of the Grecian inhabitants
of Pontus, by all the demonstrations of kindness imaginable: for
when the Callantinians were besieged by Lysimachus, and were
brought to great distress through want of provisions, he entertained a
thousand of them who left the place for want of bread, and not only
granted them a safe protection, but allotted to them habitations with-
in the city; and divided likewise a place called Psoa, with the terri-
tory thereunto belonging, among them by lot. And for the benefit
of the merchants that traded to Pontus, he made war upon the bar-
barous piratical Heniochians, and them of Taurus, with the Achæ-
ans, and scoured and cleansed the seas of them. So that his name
was advanced to the skies, (as the fruit of his generosity), not only
in his own kingdom, but almost all the world over, while the mer-
ehants every where published the greatness and braveness of bis spi-
rit. Moreover, he much enlarged his dominion, by the addition of
a considerable part of the country of the barbarians bordering upon
him, and advanced the fame and reputation of the kingdom above
whatever it was before.
In conclusion, he had a design to have brought under all the
neighbouring nations, and would certainly have effected in a short
time what he thus designed, if he had not been prevented by death:
for, after he had reigned five years and as many months, he ended
his days by a sudden and unusual accident: for, returning home out
of Scythia, with a great desire to be present at a certain sacrifice,
and making towards his palace in a chariot with four horses, covered
over with a canopy, the horses took a fright at the canopy, and vio-
lently ran away with bim, the coachman not being able to stop them
in their career: upon which Eumelus, fearing lest he should be borne
away headlong down some steep rock, threw himself out; but his
sword entangling in one of the wheels, he was burried away by the
violent motion of the chariot, and killed forthwith.
It is reported that there were some predictions concerning the
deatin of Eumelus and his brother Satyrus, though something foolislı
Chap. I.
431
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and vain, yet credited by the inhabitants. For they say, that the
oracle warned Satyrus to be aware of one Musculus, lest he should
kill him; and that for that reason he would not suffer any of that
name, whether bond or free, to abide within his dominions; and that
upon that account he was afraid both of house and field-mice*, and
continually charged the children to kill them, and stop up their
holes. At length, when he had done all that he possibly could to
avoid bis fate, he was at last killed by a wound in the musele of his
arm. And as for Eumelus, that he was charged by the oracle to
take heed of a moving house; and therefore that he durst not go in-
to his house before his servants had made a diligent search to see
that both the roof and foundation were sound: but when they came
to understand that the canopy placed upon the chariot was the acca-
sion of his death, every one concluded that the prophecy was fulfilled.
But this shall suffice concerning the aftairs of the Bosphorus.
In Italy, the Roman consuls entered the country of the Samnitest
with an army, and routed them in a battle at Talius. But the routed
party afterwards possessing themselves of a bill, and the night draw.
ing on, the Romans retreated to their camp; but the next day the
fight was renewed, and great numbers of the Samnites were slain,
and above two thousand two hundred were taken prisoners. The
Romans being thus suecessful, now quictly enjoyed whatever they had
iu the open field, and brought under all the revolting cities, and placed
garrisons in Cataracta and Ceraunia, places they had taken by assauic,
and others they redueed upon terms and conditions.
• Musculus is a lidle mouse.
1 In the Greek, Italy is fur Sunuium, sod Italium for Talium,
439
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. JI.
The acts of Ptolemy in Cilicia, and elsewhere. Polyperchon mur-
ders Hercules, Alexander's son, by the instigation of Cassander.
Amilcar taken, and put to death by the Syracusans. His head
sent to Agathocles in Africa. The transactions in Sicily. Ar-
chagathus, Agathocles's son, kills Lysiscus: he and his son in
great danger by the army. Affairs in Italy. The works of
Appius Claudius: the Appian Way. Ptolemy comes to Co-
rinth: his acts there. Cleopatra, Alexander's sister, killed by
the governor of Sardis. The further acts of Agathocles in
Africa. Ophelas decoyed, and cut off by Agathocles. Ophe-
las's troublesome march to Agathocles. Lamias's cruelty, and
the story of her. Bomilcar seeks to be prince of Carthage, but
is put to death by the citizens. Agathocles sends the spoils of
the Cyrenians to Syracuse: most of them lost in a storm. Af-
fairs in Italy.
WHEN Demetrius Phalerius was lord-chancellor of Athens, Quin-
tus Fabius (the second time) and Caius Martius were invested with
the consular dignity at Rome. At that time Ptolemy, king of Egypt,
hearing that his captains had lost all the cities again in Cilicia, put
over with his feet to Phaselis, and took that city by force, and from
thence passing into Lycia, took Xanthus by assault, and the garrison
of Antigonus that was therein. Then sailing to Caunus, took the city
by surrender, and then fell upon the citadels and forts that were in it,
and took them by assaults.
As for Heracleum, he utterly destroyed it; and the city Persicum
came into his hands by the surrender of the soldiers that were put to
keep it. Then sailing to Coos, he sent for Ptolemy the captain, who
was Antigonus's brother's son, and had an army committed to him by
Antigonus: but now forsaking his uncle, he clave to Ptolemy, and
joined with him in all his affairs. Passing therefore from Colchis,
and arriving at Coos, Ptolemy the king at first received him very
courteously; yet after a while, when he saw the insolence of his car-
riage, and how he sought to allure the officers by gifts, and held se-
eret cabals with them, for fear of the worst, he clapped him up in
prison, and there poisoned him with a draught of hemlock: as for the
a
Chap. II.
433
DIODORUS SICULUS.
soldiers that came with him, he made them his own by large pro-
mises, and distributed them by small parcels among his own army.
Whilst these things were acting, Polyperchon,, having raised a great
army, restored Hercules, the son of Alexander, begotten upon
Bar-
sine, to his father's kingdom. And while he lay encamped at Stym-
phalia, Cassander came up with his army, and both encamped near to
each other; neither did the Macedonians dislike to see the restoration
of their king
Cassander therefore, fearing lest the Macedonians (who are natu-
rally inconstant) should revolt to Hercules, sent an agent to Poly-
perchon, chiefly to advise with him concerning the business of the
king. If the king was restored, he told him, he must be sure to be
under the commands of others; but if he would assist him, and kill
the young man, he should enjoy the same privileges and honours in
Macedonia that ever he had before. And besides, that he should
have the command of an army; that he should be declared genera-
lissimo of Peloponnesus; and that he should share in the principality,
and be in equal honour with Cassander. At length he so caught and
ensnared Polyperchon with many large promises, that they entered
into a secret combination, and Polyperchon undertook to murder the
young king, which he accordingly effected; upon which Polyperchon
openly joined with Cassander in all his concerns, and was advanced
iu Macedonia, and received (according to the compact) four thousand
Macedonian foot, and five hundred Thessalian horse; and, having
listed several other volunteers, he attempted to pass through Bæotia
into Peloponnesus: but being opposed by the Baotians and Pelo-
ponnesians, he was forced to retire, and march into Locris, where he
took up his winter-quarters.
During these transactions, Lysimachus built a city in Chersonesus,
and called it after his own name, Lysimachia. Cleomenes, king of
Lacedæmon, now died, when he had reigned threescore years and
ten months, and was succeeded by Aretas, his son, who ruled forty-
four years.
About this time Amilcar, general of the forces in Sicily, having
reduced the rest of that island, marched with his army to Syracuse,
as if he would presently gain that city by force of arms: and to that
end hindered all provision from coming to the town, having been a
long time master at sea; and, having wasted and destroyed all the
corn, and other fruits of the field, attempted to possess himself of all
the places about Olympias* lying before the town. Then he resolved
forthwith to assault the walls, being encouraged thereunto by the au-
• A strong furt near the temple of Jupiter Olympus,
VOL. 2. No. 45
ККЕ
434
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
gur, who, by viewing the entrails of the sacrifice, foretold that he
should certainly sup the next day in Syracuse. But the townsmen,
suspecting the enemy's design, sent out in the night three thousand
foot, and about four hundred horse, with orders to possess themselves
of Euryclus*, who presently effected what they were commanded to
do. The Carthaginians, thinking to surprise the enemy, fell on about
midnight. Amilcar commanded the whole body, and led them up, ,
having always a strong party near to support him. Dinocrates,
master of the horse, followed him. The army was divided into two
battalions, one of barbarians, and the other of Grecian confederates.
A rabble likewise of divers other nations followed, to get what plan-
der they could; which sort of people, as they are of no use in an
army, so they are many times the cause of sudden alarms, and vain
and needless fears, which often occasion great mischief and preju.
dice. And at that time, the passes being straight and rough, the drivers
of the carriages, and other servants and attendants of the army that
were not of any formed companies, quarrelled one with another for
the way, and, not being able to move forward, by reason of the throng,
some fell to downright blows; so that many on each side coming in
to help their several parties, a great tumult, noise, and clamour ran
through the whole army. Upon which the Syracusans who were
posted at Euryclus, understanding the approach of the barbarians by
their tumultuous march, and having the higher ground, fell in upon
the enemy. Some from the high places where they were posted
galled them as they came on with their darts and arrows, and some
prevented them by gaining the necessary passes, and so blocked up
their way. Others drove those that fled headlong down the rocks ;
for, by reason of the darkness of the night, and want of intelligence,
they thought the enemy was coming upon them with a mighty army;
so that the Carthaginians, by reason of the disturbance and tumult
amongst their own men, their ignorancet of the ways, and straightness
of the passages, were at a stand, and confounded, and at last fled
outright: and because there was no room to give way, great numbers
of them were trodden under foot by their own horse; and part of the
army fought one with another, as if they had been enemies, led into
the error by the darkness of the night. Amilcar indeed at the first
received the enemy's charge with great resolution, and called out to
the colonels and commanders to stand to it, and valiantly bear the
brunt with the rest. But afterwards, being deserted by his soldiers,
Or Euryalus, a fort upon the highest point of the hill over the city called the
Epipole.
+ For some made away even upon the appearance of the enemy, especially being
pepned up, and in araze, through their ignorance of the places,
Chap. II.
435
DIODORUS SICULUS.
through the consternation that was amongst them, having muchi ado
to save his life, he fell into the hands of the Syracusans.
Here a man may justly observe the inconstancy of fortune, and
the surprising events men are overtaken with, contrary to what they
expected. For Agathocles, not inferior to any in valour, and who
had the command of a great army in the battle' at Himera, was net
only beaten by the barbarians, but lost the best and greatest part of
his army. But those that were left, and penned up within the walls
of Syracuse, with a small handful of men that had been before beat-
en, not only routed the army of the Carthaginians by whom they
were besieged, but took Amilcar the general, one of the noblest of the
citizens of Carthage, prisoner: and that most to be admired is, that
a small body of men by an ambuscade, and the advantage of the
place, should utterly rout an army of a hundred and twenty thousand
foot, and five thousand horse. So this is very true, which is in eve-
ry body's mouth_Many things are vain and to no purpose in war.
After this fight, the Carthaginians being scattered and dispersed
to a great distance from one another, could scarcely be collected to-
gether next day. But the Syracusans, returning to the city with
much spoil, delivered Amilcar to those that were resolved to revenge
themselves of him. They remembered what was foretold by the
augur-
_That he should sup in Syracuse the next day: the truth of
which, the deity now confirmed by the event. The kindred, there-
fore, of them that were slain, led Amilcar bound through all parts
of the city; and after they had most horribly tormented him, killed
him with the greatest scorn and contempt imaginable. Then the
principal men of the city sent his head to Agathocles, with an ex-
press, to give him an account of the late victory.
But the army of the Carthaginians, after this defeat, though they
came to understand what was the cause of such great calamities
and misfortunes, yet were scarcely after all freed from their fears :
and because they wanted a general, quarrels arose between the bar-
barians and Grecians. The exiles, therefore, and the rest of the
Greeks, made Dinocrates general over themselves: and the Cartha-
giniáns intrusted the supreme command to those that were next
in dignity to the late general. At this time, when the Agrigentines
perceived that Sicily was now in that condition as that it might be
easily gained, they began to seek after the sovereign command of
the island themselves: for they supposed that the Carthaginians
were not able to cope with Agathocles in the war; and that Dino-
crates, who had only a company of fugitives about him, might be
easily vanquished; and that the Syracusans, who were grievously
pressed for want of provisions, would not so much as attempt to
436
Book XX,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
gain the sovereign command. And lastly, that which was of the
greatest weight was, that inasmuch as they took up arms to free all
the Greek cities, they concluded, that all would readily concur, both
upon the account of the hatred they mutually bure against the bar-
barians, and the natural love and regard they all had to the laws of
their own country. They therefore created Xenodicus general, and
sent him forth to the war with a considerable army, who forthwith
makes for Gela, and by some of his friends was let into the city in
the night; and thus gained more forces in the town, and a great
deal of money, at one and the same time. The Gelans having thus
recovered their liberty, joined in the war with the whole strength
and power of the city, and most readily applied their helping hands
for the restoring all the cities to their antient laws.
This attempt of the Agrigentines being noised abroad throughout
the whole island, a sudden desire of liberty spread over all the cities :
and first, the Enneans sent agents and delivered up their city to the
Agrigentines: who, freeing this city, marched on to Erbessus a gar-
rison of the Carthaginians: here was a sharp engagement, but the
citizens coming in to the assistance of the Agrigentines, the garrison
was expulsed, and many of the barbarians were killed, and five hun-
dred laid down their arms and surrendered.
While thc Agrigentines were employed in these affairs, some of
Agathocles's soldiers in Syracuse, having taken Echelta, wasted and
harassed the country of the Leontines and Camareans. This cala-
mity grievously afflicted the cities, because the country was laid waste,
and all the corn and fruits destroyed: whereupon Xenodicus, the ge-
• neral, marched into those parts, and drove the enemy out of the
country of the Leontines and Camarenians, and then retaking Echel-
ta, which was a very strong fort, he restored the democratical go-
vernment to the city, and struck a terror into the Syracusans. To
conclude, he marched up and down to the several garrisons and ci-
ties, and freed them from the Carthaginian government.
In the mean time, the Syracusans, being in great straits and per-
plexity for want of provisions, when they understood that some ships
were coming with corn, fitted out twenty gallies; and, understand-
ing that the barbarians kept but a slight guard where they lay, they
slipt by undiscenied, and got as far as the Megareans, and there
waited for the merchants. But thirty Carthaginian gallies making
up to them, they prepared themselves at first to fight: but being
presently driven on shore, they left their ships and swam out, and so
escaped to a certain temple of Juno, upon which there was a sharp
dispute about the ships; "the Carthaginians threw in grappling irons,
aud hauled them off by force from the land, and so took ten of them
Chap. II.
437
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the rest were saved by some help that came in out of the city. And
this was the condition of Sicily at that time.
In Africa, after that they who brought the head of Amilcar were
arrived, Agathocles, as soon as he had received it, rode up so near to
the enemy's camp as that his voice might be heard; and shewing
them the head, told them how all their forces in Sicily were destroy-
ed, which presently caused most bitter mourning and lamentation
among the Carthaginians, who bowed down themselves in adoration
to the head of their king, (as is the custom of their country), and
looking upon his death to be their own calamity, had no. courage to
prosecute the war further. Agathocles on the other side, lifted up
with his successes in Africa, and with such confluence of prosperity,
carried himself high in mighty hopes and expectations for the future,
as if he had been now out of the reach of all dangers. But fortune
did not think it fit to suffer things to run on in the same course of
prosperity, but brought him under the most imminent hazards and
difficulties from his own soldiers. For one Lyciscus, one of his col-
onels, being invited by Agathocles to supper, when he was heated
with wine, and in his cups, began to rail against him with most bit-
ter imprecations. But Agathocles, because he had a great esteem
for the man on account of his valour, passed by all with a jest: but
Archagathus, his son, on the contrary being enraged at him, retorted
upon him with bitter reproaches and threats. When supper was
ended, and every one was returned to his tent, Lyciscus contemptu-
ously charged Archagathus as an incestuous adalterer with his own
step-mother; for he was judged to be too familiar with Alcia, bis fa-
ther's wife. Whereupon Archagathus, stirred up to a degree of mad-
ness and rage, snatched a lance out of the hands of one of the guards
and ran him through the side, who, falling down dead, was carried
into his tent by those that attended him. As soon as it was day, the
friends of him that was slain, and many others of the soldiers, ran
up and down, and (enraged at the deed which was committed) filled
the camp with tumult and confusion. Many likewise of the cap-
tains, who were subject to be called in question for their crimes,
fearing what might ensue, made use of the present occasion, and
stirred up the soldiers to a terrible mutiny; so that the whole army,
inflamed with the hatred of his cruelty, ran to their arms to execute
condign punishment upon the murderer. At length they resolved
to put Archagathas to death; and that, if Agathocles did not deliver
up his son, he should die in his room: besides, they demanded of
him their arrears, and chose new officers and captains to command
the army. At length they possessed themselves of the walls of T'«-
nis, and inclosed the princes with their guards. This mutiny come
438
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
ing to the ears of the enemy, the Carthaginians sent some of their
own men to persuade the soldiers to a revolt, promising them larger
pay and ample rewards: whereupon many of the captains promised
to bring over the army to them. But Agathocles, when he saw he
was in the utmost extremity of danger, and fearing lest if he were
given up to the enemy he should end his days with disgrace and dis-
honour, concluded that it was much better if he must suffer to be
killed by the soldiers: whereupon he laid aside his purple robe, and
put on a poor country-fellow's habit, and came into the midst of
them; at which strange sight there was a deep silence, and many
came in from every quarter flocking about him, where he made a
speech to them adapted to the present occasion, whereia he set forth
the acts he had done to that time, and told them he was now ready
to die, if they (his fellow-soldiers) thought fit it should be so. For
he was resolved never (like a coward) to make exchange of his honour
for his life, of which, he said, they should be then eye witnesses;
and thereupon drew out his sword as if he would run himself through:
and just as he was ready to thrust it into his body, the whole army
cried aloud to him to forbear, and all gave their voices generally -
That he should be acquitted and discharged from all further accusa-
tion. The soldiers then wishing him to put on his royal robes, he
returned them many thanks, shedding many tears, and then cloath-
ed himself again as became his state and dignity, and the people with
cheerful countenances congratulated the reassumption of his former
power. In the mean time, the Carthaginians expected every hour
that the Greeks would come over to them.
But Agathocles, that he might not lose the advantage of the pre-
sent occasion, led the army out against them; for the Carthaginians
expecting continually a revolt and a desertion from the enemy's
camp, never in the least dreamed of what was really in agitation.
But Agathocles, as soon as he approached the enemy's camp, pre-
sently commanded his men to sound a charge, and so forthwith fell
in upon them, and cut them down before him. The Carthaginians
being surprised by this sudden attack, after the loss of many of their
men, fled to their camp. And thus Agathocles, who was near losing
bis life through the fashness of his son, by his own valour not only
extricated himself out of the snare, but completely routed his ene-
mies: but they who were the heads and ring-leaders of the mutiny,
and as many others as bore a grudge to the prince, to the number of
two hundred and upwards, vilely deserted, and went over to the Car-
thaginians.
Having now gone through the affairs of Africa and Sicily, we
shall next take notice of what was done in Italy. For there the E-
Chap. II.
439
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
truscans came with a great army against Sutrium, a Roman colony:
to whose defence the consuls marched out with great forces, and
fought and routed the Etruscans, and pursued them to their very
camp
About the same time the Samnites (when the Roman army
was abroad at a great distance, without the least fear of an enemy) be-
sieged the lapyges, allies to the Romans: therefore the consuls were
forced to divide their forces. Fabius continued in Etruria; but
Marcius marched against the Samnites, and took the city of Alifa
by storm, and freed their allies from the siege of Japyges. But Fa-
bius, while the Etrurians flocked in great numbers to besiege Sutri-
um, slipt secretly by the enemy through the bordering country, and
made an incursion into the higher Etruria, which had for a long
time been free from all mapner of inroads and invasions; where,
breaking in on a sudden, he wasted and harassed the country up and
down, and routed those of the inhabitants that made head against
him, and killed many of them, and took a great number of prisoners.
Afterwards be overcame and killed many of them in a set battle, at a
place called Perusia, and put that people into a great consternation,
He was the first of the Romans that ever entered into those parts
with an army. But he made peace with the Arretines and Crotoneans,
and them of Perusia; and taking the city called Castula, he forced
the Etrurians to raise their siege before Sutrium.
This year there were two censors created at Rome; the one of
whom was Appius Claudius; who, with the concurrence of his col-
league, Caius Plautius, abrogated many of the antient laws: for, to
gratify the people, he made no account of the senate. He brought
water, which from bim was called Appia, into Rome, from places four
furlongs distant; and expended a vast sum of money in this work,
received out of the treasury by consent of the senate. Then he laid
a causeway of hard stones the greatest part of that road, which is
from him called Appia, extending from Rome to Capua, a thousand
furlongs and upwards; and with great cost and expense levelled all
the rising grounds, and filled up all the holes and hollow places,
making all even and plain; but hereby drained the treasury of al-
most all the money that was in it. And by his employing himself
in promoting the public good, he left behind him an immortal me-
morial. He also made up the senate not only of the nobility, as the
antient custom was, but likewise of the libertines *, by choosing nia-
ny of them, and mixing them with the others, which the patricians
took very heinously. Moreover, he gave liberty to the citizens to in-
corporate themselves into what tribe they thought fit, and to be tas-
ed in whatever rank they pleased.
such as had been slaves and were set free,
440
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
At length, perceiving how greatly he was envied by the nobility,
he avoided the storm by insinuating himself into the favour of the
common people, and making use of them as a bulwark against the
envy of the patricians. In mustering the horse, he never took apy
man's horse from him, nor removed any person, however mean, out
of the senate (when once chosen) when he took an account of the
senators, which the censors used to do. But the consuls, both out
of envy, and to gratify the nobility, convened a senate out of such as
were enrolled by the former censors, and not those that were allow-
ed by bim: but the people opposed them, and sided with Appius;
and that he might confirm the advancement of such as were of mean
and obscure birth, he preferred one Caius Flavius, the son of a li-
bertine, to the office of ædile, and to the highest place in that office.
And this was the first Roman born of a libertine, that ever before
was advanced to that honourable situation. Appius, at length being
removed out of his office, out of fear of the sepate's malice, kept his
house under pretence of being blind.
Now Charinus was chief governor at Athens, and the Romans creo
ated Publius Decius and Quintus Fabius consuls. And at Elis was
celebrated the hundred and eighteenth olympiad, in which Apol-
Jonides of Tegæa bore away the prize: at which time Ptolemy, sail -
ing from Myndus along the islands which lay in his way, came to
Andros; and, putting out the garrison that was there, restored it to
its former liberty: thence he sailed to the Isthmus, and received Si-
cyon and Corinth from Cratesipolis. But for what reasons, and
up-
on what account he took these eminent cities into his hands, we
have related in the former books, and therefore we shall forbear re-
petition. He designed also to restore the rest of the Greek cities to
their liberty, judging that, by gaining the hearts of the Grecians, he
should very much promote his own interest. But when the Pelo-
ponnesians were ordered to provide money and victuals, but perform-
ed nothing of what they agreed to, he was so incensed that he made
peace with Cassander upon this condition,--That each of them
should retain the cities they had then in their hands. Then having
put garrisons into Sicyon and Corinth, he returned into Egypt.
In the mean time, Cleopatra, being incensed against Antigonus,
of her own accord inclined to Ptolemy, and left Sardis to go to him:
she was the sister of Alexander, the conqueror of the Persians, the
daughter of Philip, son of Amyntas, and the wife of Alexander who
undertook an expedition into Italy. And therefore upon the account
of the nobleness of her birth, Cassander, Lysimachus, Antigonus,
and Ptolemy, and even the chiefest of Alexander's captains after his
death, were every one ambitious to marry her: for every one hoped
Chap. II.
441
DIODORUS SICULUS.
by this marriage to draw all the Macedonians after him; and there-
fore each coveted to be related to the royal family, looking upon
that as the way to gain the sovereign command over all the rest.
But the governor of Sardis, whom Antigonus had ordered to retain
Cleopatra, stopped her journey; and afterwards, by the order of An-
tigonus, with the help of some women, privately murdered her.
But Antigonus, who would no ways be thoụght guilty of her death,
struck off the heads of some of those women for having a hand in her
murder, and huried her with all the magnificence that might be.
And such was the end of Cleopatra, before any solemnization of mar-
riage; who was earnestly coveted as a wife by all the most noble
captains and generals of the army.
Having now gone through the affairs af Asia and Greece, we shall
pass over to other parts of the world.
In Africa, the Carthaginians sent an army against the Numidians,
who had revolted from them, in order to reduce them. Upon which,
Agathocles left his son Archagathus witla part of the army at Tunis;
and he himself, with eight thousand foot, and eight hundred horse
of the most valiant men of his army, and fifty African carriages,
made after the enemy with all possible speed. In the mean time;
the Carthaginians being come among the Numidians called Suphons,
caused many of the inhabitants to join with them; and reduced like-
wise some of the revolters to their former alliance and confederacy
with them; but when they heard of the enemy's approach they en-
camped upon a high piece of ground lying on the other side of a
deep and impassable river, to secure themselves against all sudden
attacks and incursions of the enemy; and commanded the most ac-
tive Numidians to hinder the march of the Grecians by constantly
harassing them with continual attacks in the rear; who accordingly
executing their commands, Agathocles sent out the archers and
slingers against them; and he himself, with the rest of the army,
made towards the enemy's camp. But the Carthaginians, under-
standing his design, drew the army out of the camp, and stood rang-
ed in battle array, ready and prepared for fight: as soon as they saw
Agathocles's soldiers pass the river, they fell upon them in a full
body, and made a great slaughter at that part of the river where
it was so difficult to pass; and in this endeavour to force their way
through the river, the Greeks as far excelled the barbarians in valour,
as they did them in number and multitude. While both sides stood
stoutly to it for a long time, the Numidians in each army left off
fighting, expecting the issue of the engagement with a design to rifle
the carriages of that party which was routed. At length Agathocles
with those brave and valiant men he had about him, broke through
VOL. 2. No, 45,
LLL
442
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
near the
that part of the enemy's battalion which was opposed to him, and put
them to flight, and the rest presently followed him; only the Greci-
an horse that sided with the Carthaginians, under the command of
Clino, bore the shock of the Agathocleans, who prest very sore up-
on them; upon which there was a very sharp engagement, and nia-
ny fighting courageously died on the spot, the rest by good fortune
escaping: then Agathocles, leaving off the pursuit, bent all his
strength against them who had fled back into the camp; but, endea-
vouring to break in at places strongly fortified and of difficult ap-
proach, he sustained as much loss as the Carthaginians; however,
he remitted nothing of his resolution, but being lifted up with his
victory still pressed upon the enemy, confidently concluding be
could force the camp. In the mean time the Numidians were very
intent in observing how things were like to go, but could not fall
upon the baggage of the Carthaginians because both armies were so
camp When therefore they saw that Agathocles was at a
great distance, and the guards but small in the Grecian camp, they
broke in there, and easily killed those that withstood them, and took
mang prisoners, and possessed themselves of other prey and plunder.
Which, as soon as Agathocles came to understand, he hastened thi-
ther with his forces, and recovered some of the spoil: but the Numi-
dians carried most away with them, and in the night got a long way
off from the place. Then the prince erected a trophy, and divided
all the booty amongst the soldiers that none might repine at the
losses they had sustained. The Greeks likewise, that sided with
the Carthaginians, he committed prisoners to a castle; who, fearing
that the prince would revenge liimself on them, in the night fell
upon the guard in the castle; but being worsted, they got into a fort
and sheltered 'themselves there to the number of a thousand at least,
amongst whom were above five hundred Syracusans. As soon as
Agathocles came to kuow what was done, he marched with his army
thither, where after terms and articles agreed upon, those complot-
ters came forth from the hold, but he put them all to the sword. Be-
ing crowned with this victory, and having done all that he possibly
could contrive for the subduing of the Carthaginians, he sent Ortho
the Syracusan to Cyrene, as his ambassador to Ophelas, who was
one of Alexander's captains during the whole of the late wars, and
was then possessed of Cyrene with the neighbouring cities, and had
the command of a great army, and was contriving how to enlarge his
dominions; and while he was employing his mind on these ambi-
tious projects, the agent of Agathocles just then arrived 10 solicit
him to join with him in affording his assistance to subdue the Car-
thaginians. In return for which piece of service Agathocles promis-
Chap. II.
443
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
ed he would yield up to him the sovereign command of all Africa,
and that he himself would be content with Sicily, where, being freed
from all fear of future dangers and troubles from the Carthaginians,
he should be able with ease and safety to reduce the whole island to
his obedience. And if he should have a desire to enlarge his domi-
pion, he said that Italy was near at hand, where he might gra ify his
ambition in that respect. That Africa was far from him, separated
by a large sea, and that he came not into it of choice, but was driven
there by necessity. This therefore coming in the way so heighten-
ed him in his former hopes that he readily hearkened to him, and
sent his agent to Athens to pray their aid and association in this war.
For he had married from thence Eurydice, the daughter of Miltiades,
who was general of the conquerors at the battle of Marathon; and
therefore, upon account of this marriage, and other acts of kindness,
he was received into the franchises of the city; many of the Atheni-
ans readily hearkened to this motion, and not a few likewise of the
other Grecians willingly joined in this expedition, hoping thereby to
have the sharing of the richest parts of all Africa with all the wealth
of Carthage among themselves: for the state of the affairs of Greece,
by reason of the continual wars and quarrels of the princes among
themselves, was but in a very weak and low condition; therefore
they concluded they should not only reap much advantage, but be
freed likewise from those pressing evils which at that time lay hea-
vy upon them.
Opbelas at length, when he had made plentiful provision of all
things necessary for his expedition in hand, led forth bis army, hav-
ing with him above ten thousand foot, and six hundred horse, and a
hundred chariots, and above three hundred men drivers and soldiers
to manage them, besides extraordinaries and followers of the camp
to the number of ten thousand more; many of whom carried their
wives and children with their stuff and baggage along with them, so
that they looked like a colony going to be planted. Having there-
fore marched eighteen days journey, and in them gone three thou-
sand furlongs, they came to a city called Automolus, and there en-
camped; thence marching forward, they came to a mountain shelv-
ing down on both sides with steep and sharp rocks, having a deep
valley in the midst, out of which rose a soft stone spiring up like un-
to a sharp rock, at the foot of which was a wide cave overshadowed
with ivy and the leaves of the yew tree, in which it is reported, qucen
Lamia, a lady of admirable beauty, formerly dwelt; but for her cru-
elty, they say, her face was afterwards transformed into the shape of
a beast; for it is reported that, being bereaved of all her children,
* All ber children, ibey say, were killed by Juno, because they were go by Jupiter.
444
Book XX,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
she took it so grievously, that she envied all other women that had
children, and commanded the poor infants to be plucked out of their
mothers' arms, and forthwith murdered. And therefore, even to
this day, the tale of this woman is fresh among children, and with
the name of Lamia they are presently put into a great fright. More,
,
over, being much given to drunkenness, she let every one do what
they pleased, without any enquiry after mens' maộners; and because
she never seriously minded what was done in her province, it was
believed she was blind. And therefore there is a fable told by some
that she put her eyes into a little purse, excusing her drunken sot-
tishness by such an invented tale, as if that was the reason she saw
nothing. That she was in Africa one brings in Euripides for a wit-
ness, for so he says- -
To whom is that most hateful name unknown?
Or of th African Lania the spawn?
But Opbelas, removing again, travelled with great toil and labour
through a dry and thirsty country full of wild beasts; for they did
not only want water, but bread and other provision, so that the whole
army was in danger of perishing. These sandy deserts near the Syr-
tes were pestered with noisome serpents and all sorts of hurtful
beasts, and it being for the most part deadly to be bitten by these ve-
nomous creatures, many were brought into a sad condition; out of
the reach both of friends' help and remedy from medicines. For
some of the serpents were of the same colour with the earth, so that
none could see them before they were hurt, so that many treading
upon them were stung to death. At last, after two months misera-
ble marching, with much difficulty they came to Agathocles's camp,
where they pitched their camps at a small distance one from ano-
ther; on the other hand the Carthaginians, hearing that they were
come up to him, were in a great consternation, seeing the great for--
ces that were making against them.
Agathocles, hearing of his approach, went to meet him, and ad-
vised him by all means to have a care of his army after so tedious
and hard a journey, and to see them well refreshed. He himself lay
quiet a few days, observing every thing that was done in the neigh-
bouring camp. At length, taking his opportunity when the greater
part of Ophelas's army were gone a-foraging into the country, and
taking notice that Ophelas never suspected any thing of what he
was then contriving, he suddenly called his army together, and be-
fore them accused Ophelas for that, being called for as an assistant
in this war, he went about to betray him; and, having incensed the
multitude, drew out his whole army in battalia against him and his
Cyrenians. Ophelas, growing amazed at this unexpected alteration,
Chap. II.
445
DIODORUS SICULUS.
put nevertheless himself and the men he had with him in a posture
of defence: but the enemy being too quick for him, and he too weak
for them, he was there slain upon the place. Agathocles persuaded
those that were left to lay down their arms; then telling them what
great things he would do for them, he got the whole army to him-
self. And thus Ophelas, by indulging his ambition, and being over
credulous, came to this fatal catastrophe. In the mean time Bomil-
car at Carthage was waiting for an opportunity to put in execution
what he had a long time been hammering in his brain in order to
gain the sovereign power and authority. And, although he had se-
veral times fit occasions offered him for that purpose, yet always
some light and inconsiderable cause or other intervening, put a stop
to his design. For some superstitious persons many times are pre-
paring to act great and remarkable pieces of wickedness, and yet al.
ways choose rather to delay than act, to put off, than execute the
thing; which even then came to pass: for, concluding that he had
a fair opportunity offered bim, the better to effect his purpose, he
sent away the most eminent persons of the citizens that were about
him on an expedition against the Numidians, that he might have none
of the nobility at hand to oppose him; but then, checked by his owa
fears, he durst not reveal to any his design of gaining the principa-
lity, and so let the matter fall again. At length it fell out that he
attempted to set up himself at the very same time that Ophelas was
cut off by Agathocles; and neither of them knew what was done in
one another's camp. For Agathocles knew nothing of the ambition
of the other, or of the tumult and disorder that was in the city, which
he might at that time have easily subdued: for if Bomilcar had been
surprised, and taken in the very act, he would have chosen rather to
have joined with Agathocles, than to have given up himself to be
punished by the citizens. Neither did the Carthaginians know any
thing of Agathocles's falling upon Ophelas; for they might easily
have overcome him, by joining with Ophelas. But I suppose both
sides were well enough content to be ignorant, although they were
things of great weight and concern, and contrived by them that were
near one to another.
For Agathocles, being plotting to cut off a person that was his friend
and associate, minded not to inquire after any thing that was doing
with the enemy; and Bomilcar, on the other side, contriving how to
overturn the liberties of his country, cared not what was in agitation
in Agathocles's camp, whose purpose was now not so much to con:
quer an enemy, as to subdue his own fellow-citizens. Matters being
thus, here some may find fault with history, seeing many things of
divers gatures happening at one and the same time, and that writers
446
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
are forced to break in with new matter of another nature, and to di-
vide between things done at the same instant, that the truths related
may delight the more. But to answer this, the history that is denied
this liberty, although it afterwards represents the things done, yet it
postpones the true pleasure of the thing to too great a distance from
the first relation.
Bomilcar therefore, picking out a select number of men in the
New City*, (as it is called), not far distant from the old Carthage,
dismissed all the rest; then, having called together five hundredt of
the citizens who were privy to his design, and about a thousand mer-
a
cenary soldiers, he declared himself sole monarch of the Carthagini-
ans. Then he divided his troops into five bodies, and fell upon the
city, killing all that he met in the highways; upon which an incre-
dible terror and amazement possessed the whole city. At first, the
Carthaginians suspected that the town was betrayed, and that the
enemy had broke in by that means: but when the truth was known,
the young men marshalled themselves, and made against the tyrant,
who hastened into the forum, killing all he met in the streets, and
slaughtering great numbers of naked and unarmed citizens. But the
Carthaginians, mounting the tops of the houses that were round a-
bout the market-place, cast down showers of darts from thence, so
that the conspirators (the place being altogether exposed to the shot)
were galled most grievously: whereupon in a full body they forced
their way through the narrow passes, and got into the New City, be-
ing plyed and wounded with darts and arrows all along as they came
under the houses. Then possessing themselves of a hill, (the whole
city being now in arms), the Carthaginians drew up their camp in
the face of the rebels. At length they sent some of the most antient
and gravest of their citizens to them, and remitted what was past, and
so all things were peaceably composed. Towards all the rest, indeed,
they performed their articles, and (because of the cloud that hang
over the city) passed by the crimes committed; but, without any re-
gard to their oaths, they most ignominiously tormented Bomilcar,
and put him to death. And thus the Carthaginians, when their com-
monwealth was near upon the point of expiring, recovered their an-
tient form of government.
In the mean time, Agathocles loaded all his transport-ships with
spoils, and such of the Cyrenians as he found not fit and serviceable
for the war he put on board, and sent them to Syracuse; but a fierce
tempest overtook them, in which some of the ships were lost, and o-
thers were cast upon the Pithecusian islands bordering upon Italy, co
that very few arrived at Syracuse,
• despolis. + Fuori'n cand in the inargin.
Chap. III.
447
DIODORUS SICULUS,
In Italy, the Roman consuls assisted the Marsilians, (who were
sorely oppressed by the Samnites), and were conquerors, killing great
numbers of the enemy upon the place. Then they marched through
the country of the Umbri, and invaded Etruria, then at war with
them, and took a castle called Caprium by storm. But the inhabi-
tants sending their ambassadors to treat upon terms of peace, they
made peace with the Tarquinians for forty years; but with the rest of
the Etruriaus only for one year.
CHAP. III.
Demetrius frees all the Grecian cities: takes the Piræus at Athens.
Demetrius Phalerius flies to Ptolemy. Honours given to De-
metrius in Athens. He sails to Cyprus: his acts there: be-
sieges Salamis. His great engines. Ptolemy sails to Cyprus.
Sea-fight between Ptolemy and Demetrius, wherein Ptolemy is
routed. Antigonus takes the title of king, as likewise do several
other captains. Agathocles's acts at Utica in Africa. Ties his
prisoners to a great engine. The sorts of people in Africa. .
Xenodochus routed in Sicily by Agathocles's captains. The acts
of Agathocles in Sicily. What was done by Archagathus in
Africa. Maschala inhabited by some Greeks that came from
Troy. Apes, their custom among the Pithecusæ. The Car-
thaginians draw thirty thousand men out of Carthage. Mis-
fortunes to Agathocles's captains in Africa. The army blocked
up, and almost starved. Agaihocles beats the Carthaginians at
sea near Syracuse. His captain Leptines harasses the Agrigen.
tines. Agathocles feasts the Syracusans. His jocund temper.
His cruelty. Routed in Africa. Carthaginian camp burnt.
.
The misfortune afterwards to both armies by one cause. Aga-
thocles put in chains by his own men. Steuls out of Africa. The
soldiers kill his two sons. They make peace with the Carthagi-
nians. Agathocles's exceeding cruelty at Ægesta; and after-
wearels at Syracuse.
AT the end of the year, Anasicrates was created chief governor of
Athens, and Appius Claudius and Lucius Volutius consuls at Rome.
1: this time Demetrius, the son of Antigonus, being furnished with
448
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
two strong armies, one by land, and the other by sea, and provided
with weapons and all other necessaries for the war, set forth from
Ephesus with full orders and instructions to set all the Grecian cities
at liberty, and in the first place to free Athens, which was then held
by garrison of Cassander's. To this purpose he arrived at the Pi.
ræus with his fleet; and upon his first arrival caused the edict to be
proclaimed, and then assaulted the Piræus on every side. But Dio-
nysius, the governor of the fort Munychia, and Demetrius Phalerius,
whom Cassander had made president of the city, with a strong body
of men beat off the enemy from the walls: but some of Antigonus's
men forced their way near the shore, and scaled the walls; where-
upon many within came up to their assistance, and in this manner
was the Piræus taken. Dionysius the governor fled into Munychia,
and Demetrius Phalerius into the city. The next day he, with some
others, was sent by the city to Demetrius, and, after he had treated
with him concerning the liberty of the city, and his own preserva-
tion, he prevailed so far as to be dismissed with a safe conduct, and
so, without any further care or concern for Athens, he fled to Thebes,
and thence to Ptolemy in Egypt. And thus he, who had governed
the city for the space of ten years, was in this manner thrust out of
his country. The people of Athens being hereupon restored to their
liberty, decreed public honours to them that were the authors of
their deliverance. Demetrius forthwith brought up his engines and
battering-rams, and besieged Munychia both by sea and land. But
the Dionysians made a stout resistance, and, by the advantage and
difficulty of the height of the places to be assaulted, beat off the De-
metrians, (for Munychia is not only strong by nature, but by art also,
and defended by high walls), though Demetrius indeed far exceeded
the other in number of men, and warlike preparations. At length,
after the assault had continued for the space of two days together,
many of those within being wounded and killed by the shot from the
engines, so as that there were not men enough left to defend the
place, the garrison-soldiers began to flag. In the mean time the De-
metrians, who assaulted by turns, and mutually relieved one another
with fresh supplies, having cleared the wall by their shot, broke into
Munychia, and so, forcing the soldiers within to lay down their arms,
they took the governor prisoner. Having despatched this business
in a few days time, Demetrius demolished Munychia, and entirely
testored the people to their liberty, and entered with them into a
league of peace and amity. The Athenians therefore made a decree
(which was written by Stratocles)_That golden statues of Antigonus
and Demetrius should be set up, and mounted upon a chariot, next
Chap. III.
449
DIODORUS SICULUS.
to Harmadius and Aristogiton*; and that they should be both a-
dorned with crowns of gold of two hundred talents weight a-piece;
and that an altar should be erected in honour of them, called the
Saviour's Altar: and in further honour of them, to the ten tribes of
Athens they added two more, called the Antigonian and Demetrian.
And thus the people of Athens, after they had been stripped of all
their liberties by the Lamian war, after fifteen years were restored to
their antient laws and government. Megara was still under the curb
of a garrison; but Demetrius likewise took that city, and restored
the people to their former privileges; therefore he was highly ho-
noured and richly presented by the inhabitants upon this account.
Moreover, when the Atheniau ambassador, who was sent to Antigo-
nus, presented to him the decree, he, understanding that they both
wanted corn for necessary provision, and timber for building of
ships, sent them a hundred and fifty medimnas of wheat, and as much
timber as would build a hundred ships. Then he withdrew the gar-
rison out of Imbros, and restored the city to the inhabitants. After-
wards he wrote to his son Demetrius, and ordered him to call a se-
nate of members chosen out of all the confederate cities, in order to
consult concerning what night be most conducive to the public good
of all Greece; and that he himself with all speed should transport
forces into Cyprus, and there fight Ptolemy's captains. In obedi-
ence to his father's commands, without any further delay, he passed
over first into Caria, and moved the Rhodians to make war against
Ptolemy, who were slack and slow in the matter, willing rather to be
neuters, and keep in with all parties: hence first grew the hearthurn-
ings between them and Antigonus. Thence he sailed into Cilicia,
and, furnishing himself there with shipping and men, he passed over
into Cyprus with fifteen thousand foot, and five hundred horse, and
a fleet consisting of an hundred and ten ships of three tier of oars
a-piece, of singular swiftness, and fifty-three not so swift as the
others, but men of war, as they were; besides transport-ships of all
sorts, answerable to so great a multitude of men and horses. Being
landed, he first encamped near the shore, not far from Carpasia, and,
drawing up his ships to land, fenced them with a deep trench and
ramparts; and then he fell upon the cities next at hand, and took
Urania and Carpasia by storm; and, leaving a sufficient guard to de-
fend his trenches about the fleet, he marched to Salamis.
Menelaus, appointed by Ptolemy chief commander of the isle, be-
ing then at Salamis, and seeing the enemy within forty furlongs of
Two brothers that killed the tyrant Hyparchus in Athens.-Olymp. 66,
Thucyd. Hist.
VOL. 2, No. 46,
MMM
450
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
а
the city, drew out of the garrisons adjoining, to the number of
twelve thousand foot, and eight hundred borse, and went out to
meet him, and fought awhile; but, not being able to endure the ene-
my's charge, he fled, and Demetrius, pursuing him even to the gates
of the city, took to the number of three thousand of his men, and
killed a thousand upon the field. The prisoners be pardoned, and
distributed them among his own men: but finding that they were
ever ready to fly over again to Menelaus, because their wealth was
in Ptolemy's hands in Egypt, he shipped them all away to Antigonus
his father.
Antigonus at that time was building a city in the Upper Syria,
near the river Orontes, called by his own name Aotigonia, laying out
great sums of money upon it, and taking within the walls seventy
furlongs of ground: for the place itself was very opportune to lie as a
yoke both upon Babylon and the upper provinces, and likewise upon
the lower, with the other provinces, as far down as to Egypt. But
this city continued not long; for Seleucus razed it, and transplanted
the inhabitants to another, built by himself, called Seleucia, after his
own name. But we shall give an account of these things when we
come to the time proper for them.
But Menelaus, after he was thus routed in Cyprus, drew all his
engines within the walls, and lined all the bulwarks and battlements
with soldiers, and prepared for fighting, observing at the same time
that Demetrius was doing the like. He despatched likewise a mes-
senger to Ptolemy, to tell him what had happened, and to desire
more help, in regard the affairs of Cyprus were in a very low and
dangerous condition.
Demetrius, seeing that the city was in no contemptible condition,
and that it was furnished with a great number of soldiers for its de-
fence, was resolved to prepare engines of an extraordinary bigness,
and all sorts of battering rams, and other instruments of war, that
might in any manner terrify the besieged. He sent likewise for
.
workmen out of Asia, and for iron, timber, and every thing else that
was necessary to be made use of in the works he designed. And now
every thing being ready at hand, he built an engine, which he called
Helepolis, from taking of cities, forty-five cubits broad on every
side, and nioety in height, drawn upon four strong wheels, eight cu-
bits high: he made likewise two exceeding great battering rams,
and galleries to support them. He put several great shot of massy
stones in the lowest story of the Helepolis, the greatest of which
weighed three talents: in the middle were placed very great ma-
chines to shoot darts and arrows; in the highest part were those
Chap. III.
451
DIODORUS SICULUS.
that were less, and a great store of stone-snot, and above two hun-
dred men, who knew the manner of managing all these devices to the
best advantage.
Bringing up, therefore, his engines to the walls of the city, by
showers of shot he there swept off the turrets and battlements, and
battered down the walls with his rams: but the besieged made such
obstinate resistance, and opposing engines to engines, that the issue
for some days was very doubtful; and toil, labour, and wounds, were
the mutual lot and portion of each party. At length the wall tumbled
down, and the city was even upon the point of being taken by storm;
but night coming on, both sides drew off. Then Menelaus, having
a diligent eye for the security of the city, lest it should be taken by
some fresh stratagem, got a great deal of dry stuff and matter toge-
ther, and cast it in the night from off the walls upon the engines, to-
gether with many lighted firebrands, and burnt the principal of them.
On the mounting up of the flames, the Demetrians came in to quench
the fire; but it was so quick and furious, that the engines were totally
consumed, and most of the men that were in them.
However, Demetrius, though he was for the present disappointed
in his design, yet desisted not in the least, but still urged on the siege
both by sea and land, supposing that time at last would crown him
with victory.
But Ptolemy, having received intelligence how his forces were
routed, set sail from Egypt with an army well furnished both for sea
and land service; and, arriving at Paphos in Cyprus, took boats, and
went to Citium, two hundred furlongs from Salamis. His whole fleet
consisted of an hundred and forty long ships, the biggest whereof was
of five tier of oars, and the least of four; and these were attended by
two hundred ships of burthen, carrying no less than ten thousand
soldiers. From thence Ptolemy despatched away by land some mes-
sengers to Menelaus, to bid him with all speed to send him (if pos-
sibly he could) those ships that were then in the port of Salamis,
which were sixty sail: for he was in hopes that with this addition,
having made his navy two hundred sail, (if he should come to a sea-
fight), he should be victorious. But Demetrius, foreseeing what
.
might be in contriving, left part of his army to carry on the siege,
and manned all his vessels with the best of his soldiers, and placed
his engines to shoot stones, arrows, and darts of three spans in length,
upon the forecastles of his ships. Then with his fleet, top and top-
gallant, ready prepared for battle, he sailed about to the city, and an-
chored about a dart's cast from the mouth of the harbour, and there
lay all night, both to prevent that fleet in the port from joining with
452
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the other, and likewise waiting the coming up of the enemy, being
himself then prepared to fight him.
On the other hand, Ptolemy set sail for Salamis; and in regard he
had with him in his fleet a great number of tenders, his pavy seemed
to be exceeding great. Demetrius, hearing of the enemy's approach,
left Antisthenes the admiral, with ten ships of five tier of oars, to
keep in the fleet that was in the harbour; and commanded the horse
to keep near the sea-side, to be ready to relieve those that should
swim to land, in case any misfortune should happen. He himself
drew up his feet in a line of battle, and made towards the enemy,
having not above a hundred and eight sail, with those taken in the
forts that were deserted; the greatest of which ships were of seven
tier of oars, but the most of them were of five. In the left wing were
seven Phænician gallies of seven tier of oars, and thirty Athenian
vessels of four tier of oars, commanded by Medius as admiral. To
support these, he drew up ten gallies of six tier of oars, and as many
of five, conceiving it prudent chiefly to guard that wing where he
himself intended to engage. In the middle division he placed the least
ships, under the command of Themisus, the Samian, and Marsyas, the
writer of the affairs of Macedon. The right wing was commanded by
Hegesippus of Halicarnassus, and Pleisthias of Coos, who was lord-
high-admiral of the whole fleet.
Ptolemy at the first made with all the sail he could in the night
time towards Salamis, in hopes to enter the port before the enemy :
but at break of day, spying the enemy's fleet not far off ready drawn
up, he likewise forthwith prepared for battle; and for this purpose
ordered his transport-ships to lie off at sea at a great distance, and
drew up the rest in a line. He himself commanded in the left wing,
where were the greatest of his ships ready to defend him. The fleets
being thus drawn up, both sides (according to antient custon)) called
(by their priests) upon their gods, and the whole army followed the
noise and cry of them that first began. But the princes, seeing now
all (both lives and fortunes) ready to be laid at stake, were both in no
small concern. Demetrius now, not a quarter of a league distant
from the enemy, gave the sign of battle which was before agreed up-
on, and that was the lifting up of a golden target visible to the whole
fleet, one part after another. Ptolemy doing the same, presently the
fleets joined, and the trumpets sounded a charge, and both armies
setting up a great shout, to it they went in a dreadful and terrible
manner. At first they made use of bows, and engines to shoot ar-
rows, stones, and darts, by which many on both sides were grievously
galled and wounded,
Chap. III.
453
DIODORUS SICULUS.
When the ships came side to side, and fell foul with great violence
one upon another, those upon the decks fell to it with their lances
and spears, and the rowers (encouraged by them that called out to
them) plied their oars with extraordinary eagerness. And now the
vessels, with the fierceness and violence of the charge, were so pressed
upon each side, that some brushed off the oars one of another, so
that they could neither fly nor pursue, and hy this means disabled the
soldiers on board from making a vigorous defence, by putting a check
to the force wherewith they might otherwise have borne down upon
their enemy; others so forced with the beaks of their ships one upon
another's poops, that they rowed a-stern from time to time to repeat
their strokes. In the mean time, those upon the hatches mutually
wounded one another, every one having his mark near and plain be-
fore him. Some of the captains of the vessels struck the broadsides
of their adversary's ships with that violence, that the beaks stuck fast
in them, whereupon they boarded the enemy's ships, giving and re-
ceiving wounds and blows on either side: some catching hold upon
the sides of ships, when they missed footing, in their attempts to
board the other, tumbled headlong into the sea, and were forthwith
run through with the lances of them that were next at hand. Some
who prevailed in the boarding of their enemy, killed some upon their
first entrance, and drove all the rest in heaps one upon another, and
threw them overboard. In fine, various and sudden were the turns
and changes of fortune in this battle, while they that were worsted
now, were presently after conquerors, by the height of their ships
overtopping their adversaries; and then again the conquerors were
brought into straits, by being driven into bad stations, and by other un-
accountable accidents, which frequently happen in these cases. For
in land-fights valour apparently carries the day, when no unusual
misfortune intervenes; but in sea-fights there are many and various
accidents often occur, which sometimes on a sudden ruin them
whose valour otherwise would certainly and most justly have brought
them off victorious. Of all the rest, Demetrius, placing himself
upon the stern of his galley of seven tier of oars, behaved himself
with most gallantry: for, when he was surrounded by throngs of ene-
mies on every side, he so exerted himself, that he strewed the decks
with them, some by darts at a distance, and others by his lance
hand to hand : showers of darts and other weapons, it is true, were
cast at him, but some he nimbly declined, and others he received
on his target and other defensive arms that he then wore. In this
conflict there were three that stuck close to him as assistants, where-
of one was run through and slain with a lance, and the other two
were both wounded. But at length Demetrius repulsed his enemies,
454
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and put the right wing to a total rout, and forth with those that were
next to them.
On the other hand, Ptolemy, who had with him the greatest ships,
and the best soldiers, easily broke that party that opposed him, and
put them to flight, sinking some of their ships, and taking others,
with the men in them, and then returning from the pursuit, thought
to have done the like with the rest: but when he came, he found
his left wing totally routed by Demetrius, and him in hot pursuit
of them; upon which he made back to Citium. But Demetrius,
being now conqueror, committed his men of war to Neon and Buri-
chus, with orders to pursue the enemy, and to take up such as
they found swimming for their lives. He himself, with his own
ships richly adorned, and those that were taken of the enemy's, towed
along after small skiffs, returned to his own camp and port, whence
he set out.
Meanwhile, about the very time of the fight at sea, Menelaus,
governor of Salamis, sent out to the aid of Ptolemy the sixty ships
completely manned and armed, under the command of Menetius,
who, engaging with those ships in the mouth of the harbour, which
were set to keep him in, charged through them; whereupon they fed
for safety to the army that was at land. But when the Menetians
were in the open sea, and perceived that they came too late, they
returned back to Salamis, This being the issue of this fight, there
were taken above a hundred transport-ships, wherein there were al-
most eight thousand soldiers: of ships of war he took forty, with the
men in them, and of those that were bilged in the fight about four-
score, which being almost full of water in the hold, they hawled to
land under the camp near the city. Demetrius had twenty of his
own ships much damaged in this fight, which yet, being refitted and
rigged up again, proved serviceable as before,
Afterwards, Ptolemy, seeing no good to be done in Cyprus, returned
into Egypt. But Demetrius, having taken in all the towns and
cities of the island, distributed the garrison-soldiers among his own
companies, to the number of sixteen thousand foot, and six hundred
horse; and put messengers on board the greatest ship in the fleet,
and sent them to his father, with an account of the victory he had
gained.
As soon as Antigonus received the news, he was so transported
with the greatness of the victory, that he put a diadem upon his head,
and from that time assumed the stile and title of a king, and allowed
Demetrius to do the same. And Ptolemy also, not at all willing to
hang the head at his late ill success, took the crown and title of a king
to himself likewise; and in all his letters from that time forward wrote
Chap. III.
455
DIODORUS SICULUS.
himself king: and by their example, other governors of provinces, as
Seleucus, who had lately subdued the upper provinces, and Lysima-
chus, and Cassander, who held the provinces first allotted to them, all
proclaimed themselves kings.
Having now spoken sufficient concerning these affairs, we shall
proceed to give a distinct account of things further done in Africa
and Sicily.
Agathocles, when he heard that the governors of the provinces be-
forementioned had taken upon them the dignity of crowned heads,
judging himself no way inferior to them, either as to the strength and
power of their arms, largeness of his dominjons, or memorable ac-
tions, took upon him likewise the name and title of a king, but yet
did not think fit to wear a diadem: for, from the very time of his
first aspiring to the principality, he wore a crown, after the manner
of a priest, which he never laid aside all the time he was in contest
for the tyranny.
Some say, that he always wore this, because he wanted hair. And
now he made it his business to do something worthy of the honour-
able title he had assumed, and therefore he led his army against the
rebellious Uticaps; and, surprising them on the sudden, took three
hundred of them as they were abroad in the fields. At the first he
pardoned them, and required the surrender of the city; but those
· within refusing so to do, he built an engine, and hanged up all the
prisoners upon it, living as they were, and so brought it up to the
walls. The Uticans, though they pitied the miserable creatures, yet
they valued more their common liberty, and therefore lined the walls,
and resolved to abide a siege. Whereupon Agathocles furnished his
engine with shot, slingers, and darters; and, plying them with shot
from his machine, began the siege, and so terrified them, that he
even cauterized the spirits of the besieged. Those that were upon
.
the walls at first scrupled to use their darts and arrows, having their
own citizens placed before them as their marks, amongst whom were
some of the chief nobility: but the enemy still pressing on with
more violence, they were forced to endeavour to beat off them that
were placed in the engine; and here it happened that the Uticans
fell into a sudden and unexpected misfortune, through an inevitable
necessity. For the Greeks exposing the prisoners they took abroad
in the fields to be marks to their own fellow-citizens, they were con-
strained either to fall into the enemy's hands, by sparing their towns-
men, or unmercifully to kill a great number of miserable creatures in
defending the city, as in truth it happened. For while they re-
pulsed the enemy with all sorts of darts and arrows, and other wea-
pons, the same time as they wounded and galled those that managed
456
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
the engine, at the same time they wounded the citizens that hung
at it, shooting some through, and fastening others with their darts
and arrows, as with nails, to that part of the machine towards which
the body happened to move, so that their ignominy and misfor-
tune resembled that of the cross. And thus some suffered (as for-
tune ordered it) by the hands of their near relations and friends, ex-
tremity and necessity not allowing any consideration of natural re.
lations.
Agathocles, perceiving the townsmen to defy all danger, and throw
off all regard and affection to their countrymen, begirt the city round,
and made a violent assault upon a part of the wall where it was
weakest, and there broke through into the city; upon which some
fled into their houses, and others into the temples. Agathocles be-
ing enraged, filled all places with blood and slaughter: some were
killed in the heat of fight, others that were taken prisoners were
hanged up afterwards, and those that fled to the temples and altars
were altogether frustrated of their hopes. After he had rifled and
plundered the town, he left a garrison in it, and marched to the cita-
del called the Horse-castle, naturally defended by a lake adjoining
to it: but he took it by storm, after a close siege, and a sharp fight
with the inhabitants upon the water with his gallies. Thus, having
subdued the cities, he brought most of the sea-coasts, and those that
inhabited in the heart of the country, under his own power, except
the Numidians, part of whom made peace with him, and the rest were
in continual expectation to fight it out to the last.
Africa was at that time divided into four sorts of inhabitants, that
is to say, the Pæni, who inhabited Carthage: the Libyan Pani, who
had many cities upon the tracts lying to the sea-shore, who, being
-
conjoined in affinity by marriages with the Carthaginians, were called
by this name, which imported the denomination of both people. The
most antient inhabitants, and most numerous of all the rest, were
called Africans, who bore a deadly hatred to the Carthaginians, by
reason of the severity of their government. The last are the Numi-
dians, who hold a vast tract of Libya, as far as to the very deserts.
But Agathocles, though he was now, by the help of his confede-
rates, and the valour of his own army, conqueror over the Carthagi-
nians, yet being much concerned for the affairs of Sicily, he built
some open vessels and skiffs, rowed with fifty oars a-piece, and put
on board two thousand soldiers, and sailed from Africa with his whole
fleet towards Sicily, leaving his son Archagathus chief commander and
governor of Libya.
While these things were acting, Xenodochus general of the Agri-
gentines having freed many of the cities, and raised the hopes of the
I
Chap. III,
457
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and was
Sicilians that they should all be restored to their antient liberties
throughout the whole island, led out his forces against Agathocles's
captains, having with him above ten thousand foot, and almost a thou-
sand horse. Leptines and Demophilus on the other hand, having got
together as great an army as possibly they could out of Syracuse and
the neighbouring garrisons, encamped against him with eight thou-
sand and two hundred foot, and twelve hundred horse. At length
there was a sharp engagement between the two armies, in which
Xenodochus was routed, and lost fifteen hundred of his men,
forced to fly to Agrigentum. The Agrigentines, weakened by this
loss, left off their honourable design, and frustrated the hopes where-
with they had filled the hearts of the confederates. Presently after the
battle, Agathocles landed at Selinus in Sicily, and shortly forced
the Heracleots, who had regained their liberty, to stoop again to his
government: thence marching into another part of the island, he
brought under the Thermites, (whose city was held by a Carthagi-
nian garrison), and received hostages of them. Then he took Cepha-
lædis, and made Leptines governor. Then marching up into the
heart of the country, he attempted to have entered Centuripa in the
night by the help of a faction he had in the city: but the treachery
being discovered, the garrison-soldiers fell in upon him and drove him
out of the town, with the loss of above five hundred of his men.
After this, some of the Apolloniats sent to him, and promised to de-
liver up their city; whereupon he forthwith made thither. But the
traitors being apprehended and punished, he made nothing of it the
first day; but the next, after many hardships, and the loss of many
of his men, he at length with much ado gained the place; and put-
ting multitudes of the Apolloniats to the sword, he gave the town up
to the plunder of his soldiers. While Agathocles was thus employ-
ed, Dinocrates the captain of the exiles revived the prosecution of the
former design of the Agrigentines, and declared bimself Protector
of the common liberty, and got together great numbers who came
flocking to him from all parts. Some out of a natural love of liberty,
and others out of fear of Agathocles, were at his devotion. Having
therefore now an army of twenty thousand foot, and fifteen hundred
horse, (who were all accustomed to the hardships and toils of exiles),
he took the field, and dared Agathocles to a hattle. But Agathocles
being much inferior in numbers, made a running fight of it; but Di-
nocrates still pressing close at his heels, often gained several advao,
tages without any difficulty. From this time forward things began
,
to go backwards with Agathocles, not only in Şicily, but also in
Africa. For Archagathus, left general there, after his father was gone,
sent a part of the army into the upper countries, under the command
Vol. 2. No. 46.
NNN
458
Book XX
DIODORUS SICULUS,
of Eumachus' and at first was successful; for Eumachus, took the
great city Tocas, and subdued many of the neighbouring Numidians.
Then he took another town called Phelina, and subdued the border-
ing inhabitants called Asphodelodians, who are as black as the Ethio-
pians. He gained likewise Maschala, an exceeding large city, au-
tiently inhabited by the Greeks, that planted there in their returi
from Troy, as we have before related in the third book. Afterwards
he brought under the citadel called the Horse-castle, formerly taken
by Agathocles: the last town be gained was Acris, a free city, the
plunder of which he gave to his soldiers, and sold the inhabitants
for slaves; and so, lader with spoil, he returned to Archagathus to the
camp,
His name being now up for a brave and valiant man, he under-
took another expedition into the higher Africa'; and passing by the
places he had before lately taken, he inconsiderately broke into the
city called Mittines': but the barbarians coming upon him in a full
body in the streets, they so far prevailed, that unexpectedly they drove
bime out of the town again, with the loss of a great number of his
men. Thence he marched away over a high mountain, two hun
dred furlongs in length, full of wild cats; there no kind of birds breed,
either in trees, boles, or elsewhere, because of the greedy nature of
these beasts. Having passed over these mountains, he entered into
a conntry abounding with apes, and came to three cities, in the Greek
language called Pithecusæ*: but their customs are far different from
ours; for those apes are as familiar in the houses as the inhabitants
themselves, and are worshipped as gods, as the Egyptians do dogs.
These creatures come and take mcat out of the cellars and butteries,
whenever they are hungry, without any disturbance; and parents
use to name their children after these apes, as we do after the goods.
Whoever kills any of them, is sure to die as a notorious atheistt :
and therefore it is a common proverb amongst some of them, if a
man carry himself haughtily and proudly, to say ---- Thou hast
drank the blood of an ape.” Eumachus took one of these cities by
storm, and razed it to the ground: the other two submitted. But re-
ceiving intelligence that the bordering harbarians were coming against
him with a great army, he hastened away as fast as he could towards
the sca ( asts.
To this very time all things succeeded in Libya according to Ar-
çhagathus’s heart's desire. But afterwards the senate of Carthage,
upon more mature deliberation, ordered their forces to be divided
-
* Pithecusæ, i. e. The city of apes.
+ See Erasmus Adag. (Simiæ sanguinem profudisse, p. 492), referring to this place,
where this p:overb is applied to tbose that die a violent death.
Chap. III.
459
DIODORUA SICULUS:
into three bodies, and to march out of the city, one to the towns upon
the sea coasts, another into the heart of the country, and the third
into the upper Africa. For by this means they supposed they should
free the city, both from the siege and the inconveniences through
- scarcity of provisions at one and the same time. For being that all
bad focked to Carthage from every place around, the city was in very
great want, having now spent and eaten up all their provisions, so
that they had nothing left to subsist upon; they knew likewise that
- there was no danger that the city should be taken by force, because
it lay so close to the sea, and was so well guarded by the strength of
the walls, so that it was then even inaccessible: besides, they con-
cluded that if they had considerable armies in the field, ready to assist
their confederates upon occasion, they would remain firm and con-
stant in their alliance. And that which was of more weight than all
the rest, they hoped that by this means the enemy would be obliged
to divide their forces, and go to other places far distant froin
Carthage: all which good counsel was afterwards crowned with suc-
cess in all these particulars. For sending thirty thousand soldiers
out of the city, there was not only provisions sufficient for the mer-
chants that were left, but a glut and overplus more than they had oc-
casion to use; and those confederates who before out of fear were
forced to join with the enemy, now recollecting themselves, returned
to them as their old friends and allies. Hereupon Archagạthus, per-
ceiving that the Carthaginian armies were now, in, every part of Aſ.
rica, divided likewise his army; part of which he sent to the sea -
coasts, balf of the rest he delivered to Eschrion, and the other half
he led himself, leaving a sufficient garrison at Tunis. While great
armies were thus marching to and fro all over the country, and every
one expecting a sudden revolution at hand, all were in a fear and
amazement, in expectation of what would be the event.
Hanno, who commanded that part of the forces that marched, up
into the heart of the country, laid an ambuscade for Escbrion, and
surprising him on a sudden, cut off above four thousand of his foot
and two hundred of his horse, amongst whom was the general him-
self. Of the rest, part of them was taken prisoners, and the remainder
escaped to Archagathus, who was five hundred furlongs* from the
place. Himilco, general in the higher Africa, first possessed himself
of a city near to Eumachus, whose army was overloaden with spoils
taken out of several cities. But the Grecians notwithstanding drew
- up in battalia, and offered the Carthaginian general battle; where-
upon he left a part of the army ready drawn up in the town, with this
* About sixty milesi
460
Book xx.
DIODORUS SICUIUS.
order, that as soon as they saw him fly, they should sally out upon
the
pursuers. Marching therefore out with half of the army, he en-
gaged the enemy almost close under their camp, and presently fled,
as if he had been in a great fright; whereupon Eumachus's men,
proud of their victory, pursued them in disorder, and in that confu-
sion followed them close at their heels; and presently on a sudden
issued out from another part of the city the body before drawn up in
the town, and at one word of command set up a great shout, which
struck the pursuers with fear and astonishment; and, the barba-
rians falling upon the other that were in disorder, and surprised be-
ides, the Grecians presently fled: but the enemy having blocked up
the passage to their
camp,
the Eunjachians were forced to turn aside
to the next bill, where they wanted water; which being surrounded
by the Carthaginians, they almost all there perished, some by thirst,
and others by the sword: for of eight thousand foot, thirty only es-
caped, and of eight hundred horse only forty.
Archagathus therefore, being thus distressed, left Tunis, and re-
called the rest of the soldiers (he had sent abroad) from all parts,
and sent messengers into Sicily to give an account to his father of
what had happened, and to entreat him to hasten over with assistance
with all speed. Besides these misfortunes, other inconveniences and
mischiefs oyertook the Grecians; for all their confederates (except a
· very few) forsook them, and all their enemies joined together, and
encamped just in front of them, and were ready to swallow them up.
For Himilco had blocked up all the passes, and secured the country
from all inroads of the enemy for a hundred furlongs distant; and on
the other side, Atarbas had placed his camp forty furlongs from Tu-
nis; so that the Greeks, hemmed in both by sea and land, were nearly
: starved for want of provisions, and nothing but terror and amazement
filled every place. While they were in this sad and dreadful condi-
tion, Agathocles, receiving intelligence of the destruction of his men
in Africa, had prepared seventeen men of war for the assistance of
Archagathus. But his affairs in Sicily growing every day worse and
worse, and the number of the exiles with Dinocrates increasing more
and more, he left the management of the war in the island to Lep-
tines and bis captains; and he himself, having manned his ships,
waited only for an opportunity to get out, for at that time thirty Care
thaginian ships lay in the mouth of the harbour. But some time af-
ter, when eighteen ships came in to his assistance from Etruria, who
had passed by the Carthaginians in the night into the harbour, he
took that occasion, and by a stratagem deluded the enemy; for he
charged part of his fleet to lie still for some time, while he, by making
out of the port, should draw off the Carthaginians to pursue himn. Out
Chap. III.
461
DIODORUS SICULUS.
therefore he went with seventeen sail, with all the wind he could
make, whom the enemy's feet forthwith pursued: but Agathocles, as
soon as he saw that the Etrurians were got out of the harbour, pre-
sently tacked about, and fell upon the barbarians; upon which the
Carthaginians, surprised with the unexpectedness of the thing, and
now surrounded by the gallies of their enemies, in a great terror made
away and fled. The Grecians then took five of their ships, together
with the men in them; and the Carthaginian admiral (seeing that the
ship he was in was upon the point of being taken) killed himself,
preferring death before captivity, which then (as he thought) was
just at hand. But he took no right measures at that time; for the
ship, by the help of a happy gale of wind, got off with the loss of
the little trinket-sail. Thus Agathocles, who never in the least
hoped to overcome the Carthaginians at sea, unexpectedly beat them
in a sea-fight, and, being thenceforth master of the port, he se-
cured the passage for the benefit of the merchants; so that the Sy-
racusans, having provision brought in from all parts, instead of their
former scarcity of every thing necessary, presently abouuded in plenty
of all things.
Agathocles, lifted up with this success, sent Leptines away to ha-
rass the enemy's country, and especially the Agrigentines: for Xeno-
dochus was in disgrace amongst his fellow-citizens, and blackened
by his adversaries upon account of his late overthrow, so that he was
troubled with mutinies and seditions. Therefore Agathocles com-
manded Leptines to make it his business to draw him out to fight, if
he possibly could; for that it was a very easy thing to vanquish an
army that was in divisions and mutinies among themselves, and that
had been beaten but a little before, which afterwards happened ac-
cordingly: for Leptines, making an inroad into the territories of the
Agrigentines, harassed and spoiled all before them. Xenodochus,
looking upon himself as too weak, lay quiet and still at first; but,
being called a coward by the citizens, he marched out with an army
nearly as many as the enemy, but far inferior to them for courage and
resolution; because the citizens had lived altogether in ease and
idleness, but the other had been used to lie in the open field, and
continually inured to all manner of hardships. A battle therefore
being fought between them, those with Leptines presently put the
Agrigentines to fight, and pursued them.qven to the walls of Agri-
gentum. There were killed of those thus routed about five hundred
foot, and fifty horse. The Agrigentines being grievously incensed
at these losses, one after another, summoned Xenodochus to his trial,
as the occasion of two overthrows and slaughters of the citizens,
a
462
Book XX.
DIODORUS SÍCULUS.
1
1
who, fearing the severity of the sentence he was likely to fall under,
fled to Gela.
Agathocles, having conquered his enemies both at sea and land in
a few days time, sacrificed to the gods, and entertained his friends
twith sumptuous feasts and royal banquetings. In the time of his
feasting and quaffing, he laid aside all his ensigns of royalty and ma-
jesty, and appeared as one of the meanest among them: and this he
did in the first place to gain upon the good will of the people, which
he sought thus to purchase; and in the second, that, by giving every
man free liberty in their cups to say what they pleased of him, he
might the better learn how every one stood affected towards him:
for, by the force of wine, truth often appears from behind the hang-
ing. He was naturally of a jocund and jesting temper, and would
not sometimes lose his jest even in public assemblies, but would jeer
- the very senators, and mock some of them by his apish imitations,
- insomuch that he would often set the people laughing, as if they
rhad seen some juggler or stageplayer. For he would go alone to the
public assemblies, attended only by the common people, much differ-
ing from the practice of Dionysius the tyrant; for he was so fearful
of every body, that he would let the hair of his head and beard grow
- to excess, that the principal parts of his body might not be at the
mercy of a razor; and whenever he wanited sliaving, or polling, he
burnt off the hair: every one may hereby see, that the only guard
for tyranny is diffidence. Moreover, at this time of revelling Aga-
thocles took up a great golden bowl, and boasted, that he never left
off the potter's trade before he had made cups and bowls exactly of
that shape: for he did not deny, but rather glory in bis trade, as a
· foil that set off with more lustre that high state and digoity to which
his own valour had advanced him from a mean and contemptible
calling.
Once when he besieged one of the considerable cities, the soldiers
from the walls cried out_“ O potter! Sweep-chimney! When wilt
thou pay thy soldiers ?" To whom he answered" When I have taken
and razed this place."
When he had found out by the craft of his carousing and festival
jollity who were his enemies, he invited them another time by them-
selves, together with five hundred other Syracusans, who were men
of brave and undaunted spirits; and when they were together, he
surrounded them with his mercenary soldiers, and murdered them
every man: for be was terribly afraid. lest, when he was gone into
Africa, they should recal Dinocrates and the refugees, and abrog rate
this government,
+
>
Chap. III.
463
DIODORUS SICULUS.
.
Having thus settled affairs in order to the establishing himself in
the priucipality, he departs from Syracuse. When he landed in Africa,
he found there in the camp nothing but want and desperation; there-
fore judging it most for his advantage to fight, he made it his busi-
ness to encourage the soldiers to engage the enemy, and thereupon
drew them all out in battalia, and offered the barbarians battle. The
remainder of the foot then with him were at the most not above six
thousand Grecians, and as many Celts, Samnites, and Etrurians, and
almost ten thousand Africans of those that stayed with him. These
Africans are a treacherous sort of men, ever upon any occasion run-
ning over from one party to another. Besides these, there were with
him fifteen hundred horse, and about six thousand African carriages.
But the Carthaginians, though they had the advantage of a high
ground, and of difficult access, yet they were not willing to venture
all at once with men that were desperate, but by lying still in their
camp, (where they had plenty of provisions), and by protracting of
time, they hoped to starve the enemy, and so be masters of their camp
without fighting,
Agathocles therefore, not being able to draw the enemy forth to a
battle in the open field, and being necessitated by his present cir.
cumstances to attempt something, and enter upon some desperate,
action, marched up with his whole army close to the enemy's camp:
thereupon the Carthaginians made out against him; and, though they
had the advantage of ground, and far exceeded him in number of
men, yet Agathocles, pressed hard ou every side, for some time ree
solutely bore up against them: but his mercenaries and some others
at length giving ground, he was forced to retreat to his camp. The
barbarians pursued them close; but, to gain the good will and favour
of the Africans, they passed by them without doing any execution:
but the Greeks (whom they knew by their arms) they killed all along
till they had driven the rest into their camp. There were slain of
Agathocles's men at that time three thousand.
The next night a sudden and unexpected disaster fell upon both
the armies: for the Carthaginians, when they were sacrificing the
most eminent and considerable persons among their prisoners, in
gratitude to their gods for the victory they had gained, the flame
ſising high that enwrapped the bodies of the sacrificed captives, a
fierce wind on a sudden carried the flame to the sacred tabernacle
near the altar, where it catched and burnt it down to the ground;
thence it proceeded to the general's pavilion, and the officer's tents
next adjoining: upon which arose a mighty consternation, and as-
tonishment filled the whole camp, while some endeavouring to quench
the fire, others striving to carry away arms and rich furniture, were
464
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
consunied by the flames. The tents were made of reeds and straw,
and therefore the fire (through the height of the wind) raged the
more; so that by its quickness it prevented all help and assistance
that the soldiers could any ways contribute. The whole camp being
presently in a flame, many in straight and narrow passes were inter-
cepted by the fire, and burnt to death. And thus they presently
paid for their cruelty to the captives, suffering the like punishment
as a retaliation of their impiety, And others, who tumultuously with
woful cries got out of the camp, were pursued by another and greater
misfortune: for those Africans that were in Agathocles's army, to
the number of five thousand, deserted the Grecians, and were flying
to the barbarians. When those that went out to scout saw those de-
serters make towards the Carthaginian camp, thinking the whole
Grecian army was at hand ready to fall upon them, they forth with
gave intelligence to their own party, that the enemy's whole army
approached; which being noised abroad, confusion and dread of the
enemy's being just in the midst of them ran through the whole
camp: whereupon every one placed his own safety in the swiftness
of his heels; and in regard no word of command was given by any of
the officers, nor any order kept among the soldiers, those that fled
fell down one upon another; and some of them through the darkness
of the night, and others out of excess of fear, fell a-fighting with
their own med, not knowing who they were. The mistake still con-
tinuing, and increasing, a great slaughter was made; and some were
killed hand to hand, and others running away with the loss of their
arms, in the height of a surprising fear, in their baste fell down steep
and craggy rocks, and were dashed to pieces; about five thousand of
them being destroyed, the rest at length got to Carthage. The citie
zeris within the town (deceived by the report of their own men) be-
Jieved they were routed, and that the greatest part of the army was
cut off; in this fright they opened the gates, and received them with
great terror and amazement into the town, fearing lest the enemy
skould likewise break in at the heels of them. And though when it
was full day they came to understand the truth of the matter, yet they
could scarce allay the fears they had been in, as if the evils were still
even at their doors.
About the same time, through a vain fear and foolish imagination,
Agathocles fell into a misfortune something of the same kind. For
the African deserters, after the burning of the Carthaginian camp,
apd the confusion and uproar that followed thereupon, durst not march
forward, but made their way back to the place from whence they
came; whom some of the Greeks espying to make towards them,
they took them to be the Carthaginian army, and thereupon gave ins
a
Chap. III,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
465
telligence to Agathocles, that the enemy was near at hand: upon
which, by the king's order, they cried out __“ Arms! Arms!" and
forthwith the soldiers came pouring out of the camp in great tumult
and confusion. And besides all this, when they saw the flame in the
enemy's camp mount up into the air, and heard the shouts and cries
of the Carthaginians, they were the more confirmed in their opi-
nion, that the barbarians were making towards them with their whole
army.
But excess of fear leaving no room for due and serious considera-
tion, horror and amazement filled the whole camp, and all of them
took to their heels; and the Africans being presently mixed among
them, (the night causing the mistake), every one opposed him that
he met as an enemy, and being all the night long dispersed here and
there, and wandering up and down in a panic fear, there perished of
them above four thousand: the rest, (with much ado, at length coming
to understand the mistake), returned safe to their camp. And in this
manner both arnies, deceived by the vanity of war, (as the common
proverb is), fell into miserable disasters. After which misfortune,
being now deserted by the Africans, and having not sufficient forces
left to contend with the Carthaginians, he resolved to leave Africa:
but he thought it impossible to transport the soldiers with him, be-
cause he both wanted shipping, and heard that the Carthaginians were
masters at sea, and lay to intercept his passage: and he concluded
that the barbarians (whose forces far exceeded his) would never make
peace with him, but rather cut off every man of them that first set
footing upon Africa, to deter all others for the future from the like
attempt. He determined therefore to slip away privately with a few,
and take along with him his younger son Heraclides; for be feared
lest his son Archagathus, being a daring man, and one that had been
too familiar with his step-mother, would plot something against his
life. But Archagathus perceiving his design, resolved to discover
the matter to those captains and officers who would be able to defeat
him in his contrivance, and to that purpose strictly observed his mo-
tions: for he looked upon it as a base and unworthy thing that he,
who had undergone a good part of the toils and hazards of the war
for the sake of his father and brother, should be now left alone as a
prey to the enemy, without any hopes of deliverance. He informed
,
therefore some of the captains and most considerable officers of the
intended departure of Agathocles and his companions the next night:
whiereupon all the body forthwith made up to him, and not only put
a stop to bis voyage, but acquainted the common soldiers how the
plot was laid; who being both grieved and enraged together, laid hold
of him, and bound him, and so committed him to custody. An
Vol. 2. No. 46.
000
466
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
anarchy following hereupon, there was nothing but tumult and con-
fusion throughout all the camp: and when night came on, a rumour
was spread over the camp, that the enemy was just falling in amongst
them: upon which all were so possessed with a panic fear, that,
having none to command them, every one was preparing to get away;
at which very time they that had the custody of the prince (in as great
a consternation as the rest) thought that some or other called them
forth, who thereupon came out with Agathocles in his chains along
with them; at which sight the whole army was so affected with pity
and compassion, that they cried out_“ Loose him, let him go."
Being freed from his chains, he presently after with a small at-
tendance stole away, and took shipping about the beginning of Oc-
tober* in the night, in winter-time, and got away. And thus to pre-
serve himself, forsook his children; whom the soldiers presently, up-
on the news of their father's flight, killed; and then they chose cap-
tains from among themselves, and made peace with the Carthaginians
upon these conditions, viz.-_That the Greeks should receive three
hundred talents, and should restore all the towns they then beld,
and that all that would, might take up arms with the Carthaginians, and
receive the usual pay: that the rest should be transported to Sicily,
and should have Selinus for their habitation. The greatest part of
the soldiers, who were faithful to what they had agreed, had all as
faithfully performed to them: but those cities and towns that held
out in hopes and expectations of relief from Agathocles, were all taken
by force of arms; whose several governors the Carthaginians cruci-
fied, and the rest they bound in chains, and employed them to till,
and repair by their own labours, those parts of the country that they
had before wasted and destroyed. And thus the Carthaginians, after
they had been harassed and vexed with a four-years war, recovered
their former peace and liberty.
In this expedition of Agathocles into Africa, any one may observe
most remarkable accidents, and the divine providence in the punish-
ment inflicted upon his sons. For, heing routed in Sicily, he lost
the greatest part of his army: a little time after, he overcame the
conquerors with a very inconsiderable body of men in Africa. In
Sicily, being thrown out of all the cities, he was cooped up hy a close
siege within the walls of Syracuse: in Africa, he gained all the towns,
except Carthage, and closely besieged the Carthaginians in that city;
by which fortune seemed to make it her business to let every one see
what power she had to retrieve those things that seemed to be ina
desperate condition. But after that Agathocles, in the height of his
prosperity, had murdered Ophelas, against all the laws of friendship
• At the setting of the Pleiades, or seven stars.
Chap. III.
467
DIODORUS SICULUS.
and hospitality, God made it manifestly apparent, that for the piece
of wickedness acted upon that man, whatever happened to him after-
wards was ordered and dispensed by his own hand: for the very
mouth and day of the month that he killed Ophelas, and brought over
to him all his army, the very same day and month he again lost both
his sons and his army. And that which is more especially to be ob-
served was, that God, as a just law-giver, inflicted on him a double
punishment; for he who had most wickedly destroyed his friend, was
deprived of two sons together, even by the hands of those that came
along with Oplielas. This remark ought not to offend those who
slight and despise such providences.
As for Agathocles, as soon as he landed in Sicily, by a hasty flight
out of Africa, he sent for part of his forces, and marched to the con-
federate city of the Ægestines; and, being in want of money, exacted
the greatest part of the estates of those that were rich, in which place
were ten thousand inhabitants. This many of them took very hei-
nously, and met together in private cabals; but Agathocles, finding out
that the Ægestines were plotting against him, brought most dreadful
calamities upon the city: for, drawing all the poor out of the town, he
cut all their throats upon the bank of the river Scamander; and all
those who seemed to be richer than the rest he put to severe tor-
tures, to force them to confess how much money they had: for some
he broke upon the wheel; others he bound to bis engines of battery,
and shot them away like stones; and of others, he cut out the ankle-
bones of their feet, and by his cruel and unmerciful dealing put them
to most horrible torments. He invented likewise another sort of
punishment, not much unlike the Phalarian bull; for he made a bed
of brass exactly after the shape of a man, wherein were several open-
ings and hollow places on every side: those that he intended to tor-
ment he put into this bed, and then put fire under it, and burnt them
to death. In one thing this engine differed from the bull, that those
who perished, and were consumed in those strait and narrow holes,
were exposed to the view of every one. He would likewise break in
pieces the ankle-bones of some of the rich women with iron pincers,
and cut off the breasts of others; and would sometimes lay a weight
of tiles upon the loins of women with child, till he forced the child
to leap, as it were, forcibly out of the womb. While the tyrant was
in this manner endeavouring to find out all the wealth every body had,
and the whole city was in terror and astonishmeut, some burnt them-
selves and their lwuses together, and others hanged themselves. And
thus Ægesta, in one black and doleful day, had the prime and flower
of her youth cut off. But the young women and children the tyrant
transported into Italy, and sold them to the Brutii: and, that the very
468
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
name of the place should be extinguished and forgotten, he called it
Dicæpolis, and granted it as a habitation to such refugees as came
over to him.
When he heard of the murder of his sons, he was so enraged at
those he had left behind him in Africa, that he sent some of his friends
to his brother Antander at Syracuse, with orders, that he should cut
the throats of all the kindred and relations of those that went over in
the Carthaginian expedition; who thereupon executing what he was
commanded, committed such slaughters and murders as never occurred
at any time before: for he not only hurried away to destruction young
men in the prime of their age, as brothers, fathers, and children;
but even grandfathers and great-grandfathers, if they happened then
to be living, though they had one foot even in the grave, and could
neither see nor hear, through extremity of old age: nay, even infants
carried in arms, who were not sensible of any harm designed them
before they felt it: they dragged away likewise to execution women,
whether they were servants or kindred to them in Africa, or whoever
else that (by their death) might be the occasion of grief and sorrow to
them: so that, while a vast number of persons of all ages and sexes
were hauled away to execution at the sea-shore, where the butchers
stood ready for them, tears, earnest entreaties upon their knees, and
woful lamentations appeared every where, both from them that were
butchered, and from others, who so far compassionated the sad con-
dition of their neighbours, that their hearts were as full of grief as
theirs who were just ready to die. And that which was the most
grievous of all was, that after so great a slaughter, and that the car-
cases lay cast forth upon the shore, neither kinsman nor friend durst
bury them, lest any of them should be thought related to those that
were dead. The multitude of them that were murdered upon the
shore was such, that the sea was dyed with blood a long way off, whic
presented to the eye at a great distance the horridness of that barba-
rous cruelty.
Chap. IV.
469
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CHAP. IV.
Antigonus's march into Egypt. A tempest near Raphia, where
he lost some of his ships. He returns into Syria. Dinocrates
.
prevails in Sicily. Agathocles is willing to resign his govern-
ment; but Dinocrates stands off. What was done in Italy.
Antigonus's war with the Rhodians. Rhodes besieged by De-
metrius. Agathocles routs Dinocrates's great army with a few
His cruelty to those that submitted upon terms, where he
butchers seven thousand. Dinocrates in favour with Agathocles;
he betrays the confederates. Further transactions in Italy,
men.
а
THE year following, Corybus was chief magistrate at Athens, and
Quintus Martius and Publ:us Cornelius were created consuls at Rome.
About that time king Antigonus buried his youngest son with royal
pomp and splendour; and, calling bome Demetrius out of Cyprus,
commanded his whole army to meet at his new city Antigonia, for
he purposed to march from thence into Egypt: wherefore leading
the foot himself, he passed through Cælosyria, having an army of
fourscore thousand foot, and above eight thousand horse, and four-
score and three elephants. He made Demetrius admiral of bis fleet,
giving him orders to keep close to the shore, in sight of the land-
army, having in all a hundred and fifty fighting ships, and a hundred
more of burtben, wherein was an infinite store of arms of all sorts :
and when the pilots told him, that they were to stay till the setting
of the seven stars, which would be the eighth day* from thence, he
condemned them for being too timorous. Coming to Gaza, and pur-
posing to fall upon Ptolemy before he was provided for him, he com-
manded his soldiers to take with them ten days victuals; and, getting
together camels out of Arabia, be loaded on them a hundred and
thirty thousand bushels of wheat, and an infinite store of hay upon
other beasts of burthen; and, carrying his ammunition on carts, went
through the desert, not without some trouble to the army; for they
met with sundry fens aod dirty places by the way, especially about
the place called Barathra. Demetrius departing from Gaza in the dead
of night, was for many days together becalmed; so that the lighter
ships were obliged to low the ships of burthen after them with ropes.
.
• About the beginning of April.
470
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
.
But after this, and as soon as the seven stars were set, a northerly
wind arose, and fell upon them, by which many of the ships with
foar tier of oars a-piece were driven on shore near to the city Raphia,
where there was no commodious landing for them: but of those which
carried the artillery, some of them were sunk, and the rest recovered
Gaza again. Yet some of the best of them bore up,
and came under
the promontory of Cassius. That foreland is not far distant from
the river Nile, but is not a place fit for shipping; especially if any tem-
pest happen, there is no coning near it: wherefore every ship drop-
ping two anchors each, two furlongs off from land, were obliged to
tide out in a huge sea, in the midst of a thousand dangers; for the
fury of the waves was such, that the great danger was, lest both men
and ships should sink down together; and because there was no fit
landing-place, and likewise as the shore was guarded by the enemy,
the vessels could neither make to land, nor any swim out without
extreme hazard. But the most grievous of all was, that they had
spent all their fresh water, and were reduced to that extremity of
wapt, that, had the tempest lasted but one day longer, they must all
necessarily have perished through extreme thirst. But in this great
extremity of theirs, and when they expected nothing but death, the
storm ceased: Antigonus with his army coming to the place, there
encamped, and the weather-beaten men came on shore, and refreshed
themselves in the camp, and waited for the ships that were separated
from them by the storm. Nevertheless there were lost in this tem-
pest three ships of five tier of oars each, out of which some men ese
caped alive to land. From hence Antigonus removed, and sat down
with his army two furlongs distant from the river Nile. But Pto-
lemy, having manned all the bank of the river with strong garrisons,
sent some in river-boats, with commands that, going as near the
farther bank as safely they could, they should there proclaim_That
if any of Antigonus's army would come to him, he would give him,
if a commun soldier, two minas, if a captain, a talent. No sooner
was this proclamation made, thau a multitude of Antigonus's men,
who served him for pay, grew very desirous to be gone; yea, and
some of his captains too, for that and some other reasons, had a mind
to go also.
But when Antigonus perceived that a multitude of his
men were flying away from him, he disposed archers and slingers,
and other engines of war, upon the shore, to keep them from flying
over the water in boats; and some that ran away he overtook, and put
to horrible torments, to deter others from the like.
Antigonus, gathering together his ships that came in after the
tempest, though later than him, went to a place called Pseudostomon,
thinking there to have landed some of his men; but he found a strong
а
Chap. ID.
471
DIODORUS SICULUS.
garrison, and was beaten off with bows and slings, and other engines
of war: the night therefore drawing on, he went his way, giving or
ders to the masters of every ship, to follow the admiral's lanthorn,
and to make to the mouth of the river Nile which is called Phagneti-
cum: but the next morning, finding that many of his ships had lost
their way, he was forced to come to anchor there, and to send away
the swiftest ships he had to seek them out.
The time thus spent and protracted, Ptolemy being advertised of
the approach of the enemy, came in speedily to the relief of his men,
and ranged his army all along the shore. Whereupon, Demetrius
finding no possibility of landing here neither, and being informed
that the country adjoining was naturally fenced with fens and moorish
grounds, he set sail and returned. But as he was going, the wind
struck up to the north, and with a mighty tempest drove three of his
ships of four tier of oars, and some others of his transport-ships, upon
the shore, all which came into Ptolemy's hands; the rest with much
ado recovered Antigonus's camp. Now Ptolemy had placed strong
garrisons at every one of the mouths of the river Nile, and had an ina
finite number of river-boats every where ready, stored with darts and
slings, and men which knew well how to use them, which greatly
vexed and troubled Antigonus: for the mouth of the river at Pelu-
sium being strongly guarded by Ptolemy, he could make no use of
his ships at all: and for the land forces, they were not able to do any
thing, because of the height of the river: and that which was worse,
by his long tarrying, both food for men, and fodder for cattle, began
to grow scarce. Wherefore Antigonus seeing his army disheart-
ened, called them all together, and propounded it to the captains.com
Whether of the two were best, to stay and fight it out now, or to go
into Syria for the present, and to return again better provided,
and when the waters should be lower? And when every man's voice
was for departing, be bid his soldiers truss up their trinkets; and so
with his navy keeping still along the shore by them, he returned
into Syria.
Ptolemy growing glad at heart that the enemy was thus gone, of-
fered sacrifice to his gods for this great deliverance; and made withal
a most magnificent feast for his nobles, and wrote off letters to Se-
leucus, Lysimachus, and Cassander, of bis prosperous success, in-
forming them likewise, how a multitude of Antigonus's men had fled
over to him. And now having rescued as it were Egypt a second
time, and obtained it by his sword, judging therefore he might law-
fully reckon it as his own, he returned to Alexandria,
While these things thus passed in Egypt, Dionysius*, the tyrant
See Alian. Var. Histor, 1, 9. o. 13, the fatness of this man.
a
472
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of Heraclea in Pontus, died, having reigned thirty-two years: and
his sons Zathras and Clearchus succeeding him reigned sventeen
years.
In the mean time, Agathocles visited all the cities in Sicily that
were under his command, filling them with garrisons, and polling
them for moncy: for the man was in a terrible fright, lest when he
should fall under a cloud, they should recover their liberty by force
of arms.
About that time, Pasiphilus, the general, hearing of the death of
Agathocles's sons, and the rout of his forces in Libya, held the tyrant
in contempt: and falling off to Dinocrates, joined in confederacy with
him; and being possessed of the cities which were before committed
to his care and trust, he enticed and drew off the army (then under
his command) from the tyrant by fair promises, and hopes of mighty
things.
Agathocles therefore being now every where disappointed and frus-
trated of his hopes, was so far dejected, that he sent an agent to Di-
nocrates, and offered to make peace with him upon these conditions, ,
viz._That he would lay down his sovereignty, and restore Syracuse
to the citizens; and that Dinocrates should be no longer an exile, so
that he would deliver up two castles, Tharma and Cephalædis, to-
gether with their adjoining territories, to Agathocles. Here some
mayjustly wonder how it came to pass, that Agathocles, who was at
all other times, and in all other things resolute and obstinate, and
never in the least discouraged when his condition was most despe-
rate, should be now so dastardly, as to be willing to give up all into the
enemy's hands, without striking a stroke for the obtaining and com-
passing of which he had fought so many and great battles: and that
which is the strangest of all, was, that he who was lord of Syracuse,
and of many other cities, and had a considerable navy at sea, and an
army at land, should become so weak-headed, as not to remember
any thing of that which happened to Dionysius; for when he was
reduced to most miserable straits, and to that degree of fear of those
mischiefs that hung over his head, as that he was altogether hopeless
of retaining his principality, and was upon the very point of mounting
his horse, and flying away from Syracuse; Heloris, one of the most
antient of his noblemen (to put a stop to his career) said to him
“ The sepulchre of a king is honourable.” And the like to this is what
his father-in-law, Megacles, said to him, that _“He who is deprived
of a kingdom, should part with it so, as if forced from between his
very thighs, and not as one making a voluntary abdication.” By
which serious admonitions, Dionysius was so encouraged, that he
went through every thing courageously, though ever so terrible, and
>
Chap. IV.
473
DIODORUS SICULUS.
afterwards mightily enlarged his dominion, and continued in this
height of prosperity till he was old, leaving the greatest principality
in Europe to his children.
But Agathocles not in the least encouraged by any of these con-
siderations, nor considering the vanity of human confidence and ex-
pectations by what he had learnt by his own experience, set to sale so
great a principality for a trifle : but yet the proposals took no effect;
for though Agathocles would willingly have had them confirmed, yet
the ambition of Dinocrates rejected them; for he affected an ab-
solute monarchy, and therefore hated the Syracusan democracy,
and was beiter pleased with the command (as general of the army)
which he then enjoyed: for he had at that time under his command
above twenty thousand foot, and three thousand borse, and many of
the largest and chiefest cities; so, though he was called only general
of the exiles, yet in truth he had the majesty and authority of a king;
the chief and absolute power of every thing being in his hands; for
if he returned to Syracuse, he concluded he must of necessity be no
more than a private man, and be reputed but one of the many, (for
liberty loves equality), and subject to be undermined and degraded by
the suffrage of every demagogue in the public assemblies; for the
common people are ever enemies to those that are rising men, and
speak their minds most freely. Avd therefore a man may justly say,
that Agathocles voluntarily lowered his sails; and that Dinocrates
was the only cause of whatever good was done by this prince at any
time afterwards. For Agathocles often sent agents to him to solicit
and treat about the conditions of peace, stillinsisting upon having the
two castles for his subsistence, and he as often contrived some spe-
cious pretence or another, to dash and break all in pieces; some-
times requiring that be should depart wholly out of Sicily, and at
others, that he should give up his children as hostages.
Agathocles therefore smelling out his design, sent agents to the
exiles to accuse Dinocrates of the project he was carrying on, to ob-
struct the restitution of their aptient liberties. He sent likewise an
ambassador to the Carthaginians, and made peace with them upon
the following conditions, viz._That all the cities the Carthaginians
formerly enjoyed, should be forthwith surrendered to them: for which
he received of the Carthaginians three hundred talents of gold, ac-
cording to the account and value of silver: but as Timæus says, a
hundred and fifty talents, and two hundred thousand medimni* of
wheat. Thus stood the affairs of Sicily at that time,
. Every medimnus is eighteen gallons, and eight gallons make a bushel; so that two
bundred thousand mediani make five hundred thousand bushels.
VOL. 2, No. 46
PPP
474
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
a
In Italy the Samnites took Sora and Atia, (two confederate cities
of the Romans), by storm, and sold all the captives for slaves: upon
which, the consuls broke in with mighty forces into Japygia, and sat
down before the city Silvium, a garrison of the Samnites, which the
Romans took by assault after a few days siege, and carried away above
five thousand prisoners, and abundance of rich spoil and booty. Then
they harassed the country of the Samnites, cutting down all the trees,
and making havock and spoil wherever they came. For Rome hav-
ing for many years been in contest with this nation for the supreme
command, hoped at length, that the enemy being stripped of all they
had throughout the country, would be forced to stoop to the stronger;
and to that end they continued wasting and spoiling the country five
months together, within which time they burnt down to the ground
almost all the towns, and rooted up every plant and tree, and what-
ever other thing that might yield any fruit for daily food. After this,
the Æginetes* proclaimed war for the injuries done them, and took
Frusinot by assault, and sold the territories belonging to it.
After the end of this year, Xenippus governed at Athens, and Lu-
cius Posthumius and Tiberius Minucius, bore the office of consuls
at Rome. - About this time the Rhodians were at wat with Antigonus
upon
the accounts following:_The city of Rhodes was very strong
in shipping, and the best governed of any city among the Greeks, and
therefore all the kings and petty princes strove which should gain the
greatest interest among the citizens, every one endeavouring to have
her for their confederate. But foreseeing afar off, what would be most
for her advantage, she secretly made peace with all, but would not
meddle with any of the wars wherein the princes were engaged one
against another; so that she was courted and richly presented by every
one of them, and grew exceeding rich by the enjoyment of a long
peace. For she became so potent, that in the piratical war, under-
taken for the common good of all Greece, she scowered the seas and
freed them from pirates at her own charge.
Alexander, the most potent prince of any that is recorded, honour-
ed this city above all others; for there he laid up his last will con-
cerning the disposal of his whole kingdom, and honouring her in
other respects, advanced her to the state of a royal city. The Rho-
dians thus in amity with all the princes, kept themselves (with all
the art they could) from giving any just offence by outward appear-
ance; though in their hearts they most favoured Ptolemy: for they
were most enriched by the merchants which traded thence into Egypt;
and the whole city was maintained and supported by the wealth of
that kingdom; which being understood by Antigonus, he did all he
Anagnia, or Anagni, in Italy; a city of thc Hernici.
+ Frutinum.
Chap. IV.
474
DIODORUS SICULUS.
could to draw them off from siding with Ptolemy: and therefore at
first, when he was engaged in a war against Ptolemy for the island of
Cyprus, he sent ambassadors thither to solicit them to send aid and
shipping to Demetrius; which they denying, he commanded one of
bis admirals to go with his fleet against them, and intercept and
rifle all the ships that proceeded from the port of Rhodes for Egypt.
But the Rhodians beating the admiral, he charged them to be the
aggressors and beginners of an unjust war, and threatened to besiege
their city with the strength of his whole army: upon which the
Rhodians decreed him great honours, and sent ambassadors to him
to entreat him that he would not force them to engage in a war a-
gainst Ptolemy, contrary to the league they had made with him: but
the king growing more enraged at this, sent Demetrius against them
with the army and all manner of engines for a siege; who were there-
upon so terrified with the mighty power of the king, that at first they
signified to Demetrius by their ambassadors, that they would assist
Antigonus against Ptolemy:- but afterwards, when he required a hun-
dred of the nobility for hostages, and that his feet might be admitted
into the harbour, they concluded that he designed to surprise the city;
and therefore they prepared for war.
Demetrius, on the other hand, rendezvoused all his Meet in the port
at Elorymna, and put all in readiness for an expedition to Rhodes.
He had with him two hundred men of war of several dimensions, a
hundred and seventy ships of burthen, in which were carried about
forty thousand soldiers, together with horse and auxiliaries from the
pirates: besides, there were on board abundance of all sorts of darts,
arrows, and other engines fit for the carrying ou of an assault. And
along with all these there followed almost a thousand vessels, be-
longing to private men, full of wares and merchandize. And where-
as the country of the Rhodians had been free from all devastations
for many years together, a vast multitude of men that had enriched
themselves by the losses of others in the war fucked thither from all
places. Demetrius therefore drawing up his fleet in a line of battle,
as ready prepared for a sea-fight, commanded his men of war (which
carried engines upon their forecastles to cast darts and arrows of
three spans long).to sail before; and the transport-ships, and such as
had horses on board, they that rowed in lesser vessels towed after
them by cable-ropes. In the rear came the vessels of the pirates, and a
numerous company (as is betore said) of merchant-ships laden
with corn and other provisions; so that all the sea between the
island and the opposite shore seemed to be covered over with ships,
which struck a great terror and amazement into those that had the
prospect from the city. For the Rhodian soldiers who were placed
476
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
a
a
upon the walls there, waited for the enemy's approach: the old-men
and women likewise had a prospect of them from the tops of their
houses, (for the city was in its situation like a theatre); and all being
amazed and terrified with the greatness of the feet, and glittering of
the arms, were in no small perplexity; for all they had in this world
was now lying at stake.
Demetrius now at last arrived at the island, and landed his men,
and then encamped near the city, but not within the cast of a dart:
which done, he forth with sent out some of the pirates, and others fit
for the purpose, to spoil and pillage all before them, both by sea and
land. He cut down also all the trees of the country next adjoining,
and razed the towns; and with the timber and materials from thence
he fortified his camp, drawing round it a treble trench, and many
great and strong ramparts; so that by the misery and losses of the
enemy he effectually provided for the security of his troops. Then, by
the labour of his whole army, and the seamen that came along with
him, in a few days he enclosed with a rampart of earth all that portion
of ground lying between his landing-place and the city, and enlarged
the haven, for the more commodious riding of his ships.
In the mean time the Rhodiaus sent anıbassadors to him, entreat-
ing him that he would not do any thing that might be irreparable:
but when they perceived that he would not hearken to any terms,
(laying aside all hopes of composing matters), they sent messengers
to Ptolemy, Lysimachus, and Cassander, praying their assistance, be-
cause that war was made on them upon their account. Both inha-
bitants (that were not free of the city) and foreigners (lately come
in) were admitted to take up arms, if they thought fit, for defence of
the place; the rest of the rabble that were useless they put forth out
of the city, both to prevent scarcity of provision, and lest any, uneasy
under the present circumstances they were in, should betray the town.
Then taking an account of the number of them in arms, they found
that there were of the citizens six thousand, of inhabitants and strang-
ers one thousand. They made likewise a decree_That all servants
who had approved themselves honest and faithful in all hazards and
dangers should be bought off from their masters, and set free, and
enrolled into the number of the citizens. Then a proclamation was
made_That whosoever died in the war should be buried at the pub-
lic charge, and that his parents and children should be maintained
out of the city treasury; that portions should be given to the daugh-
ters out of the public stock, and that the sons, when they were grown
up, should be crowned and adorned in the theatre, at the time of the
festivals of Bacchus, with all sorts of arms and armour. With these
promises all were presently excited to stand to it to the last, and en
Chap. IV.
477
DIODORUS SICULUS.
dure the utmost extremity; and then they made it their business (as
far as it was possible) to provide all other things that were necessary;
for all being unanimous, the rich brought in their money, and the
smiths and other workmen earnestly set themselves to the making of
arms, and all were so intent upon their business, that every one strove
to exceed each other. Some therefore employed themselves in mak-
ing engines to cast darts and shoot stones, and others in making and
preparing other things; some repaired the walls where they were de-
fective, and many loaded men with stones to carry to the walls.
They sent out likewise three swift-sailing vessels against the enemy,
and the merchants that brought them in provisions: these falling sud-
denly upon them, suok many of the merchant-ships, the crews having
gone on shore to rob and spoil the country, and burnt no few that
were driven up to land; and what they received for the redemption
of captives they brought with them back into the city: for the Rho-
dians had agreed with Demetrius what the value of redemption on
both sides should be, that is, for every freeman a thousand drach-
mas, and for every servant and bondman five hundred. Demetrius
being furnished with plenty of all things necessary for the making of
engines, began to make two, called Testudoes, the one against the
engines that cast stones, and the other against those that shot darts
and arrows; these they placed upon the fore decks of two transport-
ships, which moved from place to place, and were chained close to-
gether: he likewise made two towers four stories high each, higher
than those turrets belonging to the towu in the harbour, both which
likewise were placed upon two ships of equal height, and joined one
to another, that both might be equally ballasted when they were
forced forward. He built likewise a rampart upon a four-footed piece
of timber pailed together, to float upon the water, in order to beat off
the enemy in any attack they might make upon the ships where the
engines were placed. At the same time while he was making these,
he got together a number of the strongest water-boats, and fenced
them round with boards and planks, and made loop-holes in the sides,
(to shut at pleasure), and in these he placed engines to shoot darts
and arrows of three spans long at a great distance, together with such
soldiers as knew very well how to make use of them, and with them
some Cretan archers. Coming up, therefore, with his ships within
the cast of a dart, he sorely galled the townsmen with bis darts and
arrows, the engines in the ships being higher than the walls next to
the barbour. The Rhodians, on the other hand, understanding that
Demetrius made it his main business to gain the port, were as earnest
in providing all things necessary for its defence. To this end they
mounted two engines upon a rampart, and put on board three others
478
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
upon two transport-ships, and lay with them at the mouth of the
little harbour; and in these they put great numbers of engines for
the shooting of stones, darts, and arrows, of all sizes, that by the help
of these they might repulse the enemy, if he either attempted to land
men, or make up with his engines. Besides all this, they had con-
trived convenient places and apartments in the transport-ships which
then lay in the harbour, wherein to place their engines and darts, as
they had occasion. Both sides being now thus ready prepared, and
Demetrius just upon the point of moving into the barbours with his
machines, was prevented by a fierce and violent storm which then
arose. But being calm all the night afterwards, he sailed up secretly,
and seized upon the highest rampart of the great harbour, and forth-
with drew a mud wall about it, and fenced it with stones and planks
of timber: then he landed four hundred of his men, and placed them
there, with all sorts of darts and weapons; the fort was five plethras
distant from the walls. As soon as it was light they came up with
the engines into the port, with shouting and sound of trumpet, then
with their small shot, which did execution at a great distance, they
beat off those that were building the wall in the port, and with their
battering engines broke in pieces the enemy's machines, and shook
the wall near the rampart in one part, and battered it down in ano-
ther: for it was but low and weak at that time. The citizens stoutly
defended themselves, and spent all that day in wounding and receiv-
ing wounds from their enemies: but night drawing on, Demetrius
towed his ships hy cables tied to smaller vessels, and got off his en-
gines out of the reach of the enemy's artillery. But the Rhodiang
took fire aloog with them, and in boats filled with combustible mat-
ter pursued their enemies, and, coming up with the engines, put fire
to the matter in the boats; but being presently beaten off by darts and
arrows from the floating rampart, they were forced to tack about,
and to retire; but the flame raged to that degree, that some few only
having extinguished tlie fire, returned in the boats; and the greatest
part of them, having had their vessels burnt down to the water, by
swimming only saved their lives.
The next day Demetrius in the same manner made his attack from
the sea, and ordered that an assault, with shouting and suund of
trumpet, should be made on every side from the land, that he might
strike the greater terror into the Rhodians, while innumerable dangers
surrounded and distracted them on every hand. He continued thus
assaulting the town for the space of eight days together, shooting from
his engines upon the rampart stones of the weight of a talent, and
battered down the middle walls between the towers, together with the
towers themselves; the soldiers likewise possessed themselves of part
Chap. IV.
479
DIODORUS SICULUS.
:
of the wall that faced the harbours: upon which the Rhodians all
flocked to that place, and there they sharply fell to it, and engaged
the enemy; and, overpowering them in number, with the slaughter
of some of them, forced the rest to draw off. The uneasy, rough,
and uneven passage to the place, (by reason of many heaps of great
and massy stones which were laid before the walls on the outside),
was of great advantage to the besieged. Many of the enemy's ves-
sels, (in the midst of this confusion), manned with soldiers, coming
up, the Rhodians presently tore off the beaks of the ships, and by
combustible matter and firebrands thrown in among them, burnt the
ships themselves. While the besieged were thus hurried and dis-
tracted in defending themselves, the Demetrians coming in with their
vessels on every side, set scaling-ladders to the walls, and pressed
on with the greater resolution, being assisted in all parts by the sol-
diers at land, who, together with them in the ships, mutually repeated
their shouts and acclamations. And now many boldly and resolutely,
in contempt of danger, pressed forward, and in great bodies mounted
the walls; upon which followed a sharp engagement, the assailants
forcing on with great resolution from without, and the besieged with
as much courage flocking together to defend themselves within. At
length the Rhodians, after a brave resistance, beat off the assailants,
killing some, and taking others prisoners that were wounded, amongst
whom were some of the chiefest commanders. The besiegers being
thus baffled, Demetrius drew off his engines into his own port, and
then set upon repairing both them and bis ships.
In the mean time the Rhodians buried their dead, and dedicated
to their gods their enemy's arms, and the beaks of their ships, and
repaired those parts of their walls that were beaten down by the
engines.
Demetrius however, after seven days time spent in refitting his
battering engines, and repairing his shipping, having now all things
in readiness, entered the barbour again: for he made it his main bu.
siness to be absolute lord of this, and to intercept all provisions that
might be brought in to the relief of the city. When he came within
the cast of a dart, he threw firebrands (of which he had a great num-
ber) into the Rhodian ships, which lay scattered here and there, and
shook and battered the walls with his engines, and wounded and galled
with his darts and arrows whoever appeared in view. The assault
thus continuing, to the great terror and amazement of the in-
habitants, the Rhodian pilots (in great fear and concern for the
shipping) extinguished the firebrands; and the magistrates of the
city, (whom they call Prytanes), seeing that the port was now even
upon the point of being taken, earnestly entreated all the citizens,
a
480
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
both high and low without distinction, resolutely to put to their lielp-
ing hands for the common preservation and security of the whole
city. Whereupon many readily came in, and manned three of their
strongest vessels with the best of their men, giving them orders to
do the utmost they could with the beahs of their ships to sink the
enemy's vessels that carried their engines. Those thus sent out,
though they were plied with showers of darts and arrows, yet by the
violence of their charge they broke in pieces the rampart* that was
fenced with iron, and so shattered their ships with one stroke after
another, that they filled them with water, and dismounted two of
their engines: whereupon the Demetrians towing back the third with
cables, the Rhodians, encouraged by their success, pressed on still
with more boldness than prudence; and therefore, being pierced and
sbattered by the beaks of many great ships that surrounded them,
Execestus the admiral, and the captain of the gallies, and some
others, (being badly wounded), were taken prisoners; the rest by
swimming got to their own men; only one ship was taken by the De-
metrians, and the rest escaped the danger. After this conflict, Deme-
trius made another engine, which was thrice as big as the former,
both in height and breadth. And now, being just upon entering
into port, there arose a violent south wind, which suddenly burst
out of a cloud, and sunk the ships which were advancing, and over-
turned the engine. Upon which the Rhodians, taking advantage of
the present opportunity, at the very same time iung open their gates,
and made a sally upon them that entered the port: upon which there
was a sharp dispute for a long time together; and because that Deme-
а
trius could not come up to the assistance of his men, by reason of
the storm, the Rhodians still fell upon them with fresh parties one
after another, so that the Demetrians, to the number of four bun-
dred, were forced to throw down their arms, and submit. After this
victory gained by the Rhodians, there arrived to their aid and assist-
ance a hundred and fifty Grossians, and five hundred men sent by
Ptolemy, amongst whom were some Rhodians that were soldiers un-
der the king's pay. And thus stood matters in the siege of Rhodes
at that time.
In Sicily, Agathocles, not being able to compose matters with
Dinocrates and the exiles, marched out with what forces he had a-
gainst them, looking upon it as absolutely necessary to bazard his
person, and resolutely to fight it out, and gain all, or lose all. He had
not with him above five thousand foot, and eight hundred horse.
Dinocrates with the exiles, seeing that the enemy came boldly on,
went out with as much earnestness and resolution to fight them, bea
• The Boating ramparta
Chap. IV.
481
DIODORUS SICULUS.
cause he was far superior to the Agathocleans in number, having a-
bove five-and-twenty thousand foot, and three thousand horse. Both
armies sat down one against another at a place called Gorgius. At
length they drew up in battalia, and fell to it; and the fight was very
sharp for a while, by reason of the heat and resolution of both para
ties: but after a little time some deserted Dinocrates, (to the num-
ber of two thousand), and went over to the tyrant, which was the
ruin of the exiles: for the Agathocleans were thereupon much more
encouraged and heartened; but those with Dinocrates were as much
amazed and dejected, and, thinking that many more went off than
there did, they all took to their heels. Agathocles pursued them a
little way; but then called off his men from the slaughter, and sent
to the broken troops proposals, that all differences being at length
laid aside, every one should have free liberty to return into their own
country: for they found by experience that they were never able to
overcome him by force of arms, being even now routed, when they
had an army far superior to his in number. The horse indeed all es-
caped to the castle of Ambicas; and some of the foot the night fol-
lowing got away. The greatest part possessed themselves of a hill;
but, despairing to prevail by force of arms, and desirous to return to
their kindred, friends, estates, and country, made peace with Aga-
thocles. Having therefore plighted his faith to them, and thereupon
all of them being come down from the hill, which was a natural fora
tification, he first disarmed them, then hemmed them in with his
forces, and put them every man to the sword, tự the number of se-
ven thousand, (as Timæus says), but as others have written, four thou-
sand. For this tyrant never in the least valued either his word or
oath, and increased his power not so much by the greatness of his
forces, as by the weakness of his subjects, fearing more his confede-
rates than his enemies. Having thus cut off his enemy's army, he
received the rest of the exiles into his protection, and, receiving Di-
nocrates into grace and favour, made him general of part of the army,
and intrusted him ever after in his most weighty affairs. At which
every man may justly wonder that he, who was so jealous and sus
picious of every one that he would never confide in any, should to the
last maintain a firm friendship only with Dinocrates, who, having
thus betrayed his confederatęs, seized upon Pasiphilus at Gela, and
there murdered him, and delivered up all the castles and cities to
Agathocles, bringing all his enemies under his feet in two years
time.
In Italy, the Romans subdued the Palinians, and took th
noun
try from them, and some that were students at medley free
of the city. Afterwards the consuls marched
Vol. 2. No. 46.
QO
482
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS
nites, who had wasted and harassed Phaleria, and in a battle routed
them, wherein they took twenty standards, and two thousand priso-
ners; and, after they had taken the city Bola by assault, presently
appeared Caius Gellius, general of the Samnites, with six thousand
men; upon which there was then another sharp engagement, in
which Gellius himself was taken, and many of the other Samnites
slain and taken prisoners. The consuls being thus successful, re-
covered Sora, Harpina, and Serenia, cities of their allies, which had
been before taken from them.
CHAP. V.
The siege of Rhodes continued. The acts of the sea-captains of
the Rhodians. Peace made with the Rhodians. The acts of
Agathocles in the Lipari islands. The acts of Demetrius in
Greece. The war between the Tarentines and Lucanians. The
acts of Cleonymus the Spartan. Cassander sends to Antigonus
to make peace, who refuses. Lysimachus joins with Cassander,
and so does Ptolemy and Seleucus, against Antigonus: he
marches against Lysimachus. Demetrius's further acts in Greece.
The armies of Cassander and Demetrius. Demetrius leaves
Greece, and goes with his army to his father in Asia, after peace
made with Cassander. The misfortunes of Plistarchus at sea.
Ptolemy besieges Sidon, but returns to Egypt upon a false report.
Seleucus marches from Babylon with a great army.
AFTER the former year had run its course, Pherecles was made
chief governor of Athens, and Publius Sempronius and Publius Sul.
picius were invested with the consular dignity at Rome. At the same
time was solemnized the hundred and nineteenth Olympiad, in which
Andromenes the Corinthian bore away the prize. About this time
Demetrius, who lay still before Rhodes, seeing things did not suc-
ceed as to his attempts made at sea, resolved to assault the city by
land. To that end he made preparation of plenty of all sort of tim-
ber, and framed the engine called Helepolis, far bigger than any of
the former. Its basis was four square; every side was almost in length
fifty cubits, made up of four-square pieces of timber, bound together
Chap. V.
483
DIODORUS SICULUS.
by plates of iron. In the middle part he placed strong planks of
timber, a cubit distance one from another, for those that forced the
engine forward to stand upon. The whole was moved upon eight
strong and large wheels, whose felloes were two cubits thick, covered
with strong iron plates: across over the spokes were contrived An-
tistreptas* to turn about the engine io a trice whenever they pleased.
At every corner of the machine were pillars raised, litile less than a
hundred cubits high, every one of au equal length, so compacted to-
gether as that the whole machine was nine stories high. In the first
were three-and-forty beds, and in the highest nine: the three sides
of the engine were lined on the outside with iron plates fastened with
nails, to prevent all damage from fire that might be shot or cast from
the city. In every story at the front were made loop-holes, propor-
tionable, and in shape, to the nature of the artillery that was thence
to be discharged. To these were shutters (fastened to the engine)
to draw up, for the better defence of them within that threw the
darts; for they were lined with skins stuffed with wool, to deaden the
force of the stone-shot. Every story was furnished with two large
ladders, that whatever was necessary might be brought in to them at
one and the same time by one, while others were going down upon
other occasions by the other, that so every thing might be despatched
without tumult and confusion. There were chosen out of the whole
army the strongest men (to the number of three thousand and four
hundred) to move the engine forward; of whom some from within,
and others placed behind, so forced it forward, that art and strength
together much facilitated the motion. He made also Testudoest, by
some to fill up trenches and ditches, and with others to bring up
battering rams: he made likewise galleries, through which they that
were employed might pass and repass with safety at their pleasure.
By the help and assistance likewise of the seamen, he plained and
laid even all the way along which the engines were to be brought up,
to the space of four furlongs, so that the breadth of the work faced
as much of the city-wall as consisted of six divisions lietween the
turrets, and of seven of the turrets themselves. The multitude of
artificers and workmen that were got together were no less than thirty
thousand men. Every thing therefore (through multitude of hands)
being perfected and completed sooner than could be imagined, De-
metrius became a terror to the Rbodians; for not only the greatness
of the engines, and the multitude of men, but the valour and dili-
gence of the king in carrying on of sieges amazed them: for he was
extraordinarily ingenious in invention, and contrived many things
* Instruments to turn the engine.
t Aſtificial covers over spen’s beads, made of strong timber covered with raw skins
464
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
beyond all the art and industry of the artificers, whence he got the
name of Poliorcetes*: for he was so fierce and violent in his assaults,
that no wall seemed to be so strong as to be a sufficient defence to
the besieged against him. And besides, he was so tall and beautiful,
that he looked like a demi-god; insomuch that those who came to
him but as guests and strangers, and saw his graceful mien, clothed
with royal majesty, were struck with admiration, and would often at-
tend upon him in his expeditions, merely to have the satisfaction of
looking at liim. Moreover, he was of a high and noble spirit, aud
scorned not only to stoop to the common sort, but even to princes
themselves. And that which was most strange, and peculiar only to
himself was, that in times of peace he was given to drunkenness and
banqueting, to dancing and riuting, and would imitate even the man-
hers of Bacchus himself, such as is fabulously reported he used to
practice when he was upon earth; but in times of war he was very
active and serious, insomuch that he went beyond all the rest, both
as to his head and hand, when any thing was to be done. For in his
time, and by his contrivance, were made the greatest darts, and such
sort of engines as far exceeded all other pations in the world: and
after this siege, and his father's death, he launched forth the greatest
ships that ever were before seen. In the mean time the Rhodians,
perceiving how the enemy's works went on, built another wall with-
in, answerable to that which was now presently to be assaulted; and
to this purpose they used the stones that walled in the theatre, and
pulled down some neighbouring houses and some temples for the
same purpose, vowing to the gods to build larger and fairer, if the
city were preserved. They sent out likewise pine ships, and com-
manded the captains that, infesting every part, and surprising what
ships they could, they should sink some of those they took, and
bring others into the city harbour. These captains divided their
squadron into three parts: Damophilus, with the ships which the
Rbodians called Phalacidæt, sailed to Carpathus I, where, surprising
many of Demetrius's fleet, he sunk some, and burnt others that were
drawn up upon the shore, making choice of such prisoners as might
be most useful and serviceable; and many ships that were carrying
corn and other fruits out of the island he brought away with him into
his own country.
Menedemus, who commanded three small gallies between two
and three tier of oars, made for Patara and Lycia, and there found a
ship at anchor, and burnt her, all her men being before gone off to
* Poliorcetes, city.taker. + Guard ships.
Carpathus, an island between Rhodes and Crete, now Scapanto.
Ś Incmoltians, something less than three tier of oars.
Chap. V.
465
DIODORUS SICULUS.
land: he took likewise many of the enemy's transport-ships which
carried provisions to their camp, and sent them to Rhodes: he took
also a ship of four tier of oárs coming out of Cilicia, which carried a
royal robe, and other rich furniture, which Phila, Demetrius's wife,
had curiously wrought, and had sent as a present to her husband.
He ordered the garments to be conveyed into Egypt, for they were
purple robes, fit for none to wear but kings; but the ship he took
away with bim, and sold all the seamen he had taken, both out of the
galley.of four tier of oars, and other vessels. Amyntas, who com-
manded the other ships, sailed to the islands, and, falling in with
some of the enemy that were conveying away something of use for
the engines, he sunk some of the ships, and brought in others to the
city, in which were taken eleven famous artificers, most expert artists
in making of darts and engines.
After this was called a general assembly, wherein it was proposed
that the statues of Antigonus and Demetrius should be pulled down,
affirming, that it was a thing intolerable that enemies and besiegers
of the city should have the same honours as those that were friends
and benefactors: but the people were much incensed at this motion,
and checked them that proposed it as those that did ill, and would
not suffer any thing in diminution to the honour of Antigonus, there-
by wisely consulting both their own reputation and advantage: for
this greatness of mind and soundness of judgment in a democratical
government redounded amongst all to the praise of the besieged, and
softened and melted the spirits of the besiegers: for they that had
set at liberty the Greek cities, who had testified nothing of their good
will towards them as their benefactors, now seemed to go about to
enslave that city, who had given a clear and evident demonstration
of the firmness and constancy of their gratitude. This resolution
likewise might reasonably be concluded to be of singular advantage
to them in the worst of fortune; for if the city were taken, the re-
membrance of their kindness might plead and prevail for their par-
don: it is clear, therefore, that the Rhodians manifested singular pru-
dence in the management of this affair.
Demetrius had now even undermined the city, when a deserter
very opportunely came in, and informed the city, that the miners
were approached almost within the walls: upon which the Rhodians
drew a deep trench all along the wall that was now ready to be tum-
bled down, and forthwith fell to countermining; and at length met
the enemy under ground, and so prevented the mine from proceed-
ing any further: and while both parties guarded the mines, some of
Demetrius's soldiers with money bribed Athenagoras, the captain of
486
Book XX,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
the guard for the Rhodians. He was a Milesian, sent thither by
Ptolemy, and captain of the mercenaries, who, having promised to
betray the city, appointed a day on which Demetrius should send some
one of the chiefest of his commanders, who should enter in the night
through the mines into the city, and find out a place fit and conve-
nient to receive the soldiers. Athenagoras having now raised up the
hopes and expectations of the Demetrians, discovered the whole in-
trigue to the senate. The king, according to the compact, sent one
of his noblemen, Alexander, a Macedonian: but the Rhodians seized
him as soon as be peeped up out of the mine; but crowned Athenas
goras with a crown of gold, and for a reward gave him five talents
of silver; and then made it their business to engage the rest of the
mercenaries and strangers to be faithful to the people all the ways
they could.
However, Demetrius, having now finished all his engines, and
plained and laid even every place under the walls, brought up his
Helepolis* in the middle, and so ordered his Testudoes for filling up
of trenches and ditches, (which were eight in number), that be placed
four on each side of the Helepolis. To each of these was adjuined
a gallery, that they who went in and out might execure what w«s
commanded without any danger. He had likewise two other Teseudoes
that bore battering rams, far larger than the rest; for both at there
were a hundred and twenty cubits long, strongly armed with iron,and
their headst resembled the beak of a ship, and were easily moved
forward by the help of wheels; but tu du effecsual execution, they
were forced on by a thousand men at least.
Being ready to bring up his engines to the walls, he filled every
story in the Helepolis with as many engines for shooting of stones,
arrows, and darts, as each would hold. Then he sent his sea-forces,
to the hayep and the places adjoining, and ordered his land-army ta
the rest of the wall where any approach could possibly be made. At
length, at one signal and word of command all set up a shout togea
ther, and with great violence stormed the city on every side: and at
the very time that the walls were shaking and trembling with the
strokes of the battering rams, and stones shot from the engines, in
came ambassadors from Cnidus, and intreated him to forbear all furs
ther proceedings by force of arms, and promised, that they would per-
suade the Rhodians to submit (as far as it was possible) to his com-
mands. The king hereupon remitted his heat, and ambassadors were
sent from both sides, who banded matters to and fro, but could not
come to any agreement. Whereupon he resolutely renewed the asa
• The great engine, 1. The sams' heals
Char. Vi
487
DIODORUS SICULUS.
sault, and battered down one of the strongest towers built of four-
square stone, and so shook the whole space between the towers, that
the besieged could not pass that way to the bulwarks.
But at this time, King Ptolemy sent a great feet with provisious
to the Rbodians, in which were three hundred thousand Artabans*
of corn, beans, and peas. These making a straight course for Rhodes,
Demetrius sent shipping after them, in order to seize the provisions
for the use of his own camp: but the Ptolemians, (hoisting up all
their sails), by the favour of a fait gale of wind, arrived safe at their
port, and so those that were sent after them by Demetrius returned
as they went. Cassander likewise sent ten thousand medimni of
barley to the Rhodians, and Lysimachus forty thousand of wheat, and
as much of barley.
The town thus supplied with plenty of provisions, their languishing
spirits now revived; and thereupon judging it much to their advan-
tage if they could ruin the enemy's engines, they got together abun-
dance of fire-balls, and several engines for shooting of fire, and
placed them and their other artillery upon the walls; and the next
night, about the second watch, they suddenly commenced playing
upon the enemy's guard, with arrows, darts, stones, and other wea-
pons; and at the same time making use of all sorts of fire engines,
they grievously wounded and galled all that came flocking into that
part: whereupon the Demetrians, who were altogether surprised by
so suddeo and unexpected an attack, being mightily concerned for
their engines and their other works, ran all in a body together to
defend them. The night being very dark, no moon appearing, fire-
brands Aying about with great violence, gave light to the night; and
darts and stones from the catapults and balistas, not discerned when
they were shot, wounded and galled many of the combatants, who
could not see how to avoid them. And now, at this very time, some
of the iron plates fell off from the great engine, and the fire-brands
had the good fortune to fall upon that part that was bare: upon which
as the fire increased, Demetrius was in a great fright lest the engine
should be totally consumed; and therefore he endeavoured to pre-
vent it with all the speed possible, and to quench the ragiog flame
by the water before prepared, and ready in the apartments of the en-
gine for such accidents. At length he called together, by sound
of trumpet, those that were to move the engines, and by their help
removed them out of the reach of the darts. Wben it was day, he
ordered the boys and pages in the army to gather up all the darts
and arrows shot by the Rhodians, because he had a desire, by num-
• A Persian measure, something larger than a medimous, which is eighteen gallons,
488
Book XX.
DIODORUS SÍCULUS.
bering of these, to make a conjecture how the citizens were furnish-
ed and provided. These boys performing what they were com-
manded, there were in number of fire- brands, and other vehicles of
fire of several sizes, above eight hundred; and of darts, no fewer
than fifteen hundred. This vast number of darts, arrows, fire-
brands, and balls, shot in so little a portion of the night, caused him
to admire the store and provision of the city in their ammunition;
and likewise their great charge and expense in providing them.
Then he set about repairing his engines, burying the dead, and cur-
ing those that were wounded; during which time the citizens, bava
ing a respite from the assaults and batteries of the engines, built a
third wall in the shape of a half moon, which encompassed all that
part of the wall which lay most open and exposed to the enemy's
attacks. And besides this, they drew a deep trench round that part
of the wall which was ready to fall, that the king might not enter on
a sudden, at the first push. They likewise sent out some swift sail-
ing ships under the command of Amyntas, who made over to the
continent of Asia, and there set upon some privateers that were com
missioned by Demetrius: they had three open vessels, and were re-
puted the stoutest men the king had in his fleet. After a short fight,
the Rhodians took both the ships and the men, among whom were
Timocles, the chief of the pirates. They likewise fell upon some
merchant-ships, and took some light vessels laden with corn, and
with these, and the open vessels of the pirates, they secretly passed
by the enemy, and got into Rhodes.
Demetrius having repaired his machines, brings them again up
to the walls, and, with showers of darts and arrows, forced the bea
sieged from the bulwarks; and battering the place adjacent with bis
rams, he beat down two spaces between the tower. In the heat of
this action the besieged with all their might defended the middle
tower, and were continually harassed by strong parties of fresh men
one after another, so that Aminias their chief commander, coura-
geously behaving himself, was there slain, with many of the com-
mon soldiers.
While these things were doing, king Ptolemy sent to the Rho.
dians as much corn and other provisions as he had done before; and
also fifteen hundred soldiers, under the command of Antigonus a
Macedonian.
About the same time there came to Demetrius, about fifty ambas-
sadors, from Athens and other cities of Greece, all soliciting the
king to compose matters, and conclude a peace with the Rhodians.
Wbereupon there was a cessation of arms, and many harangues were
now made to the people, and then a-ain to Demetrius, but they
Chap. V.
489
DIODORUS SICULUS.
could not agree upon any terms; and therefore the ambassadors de
parted without effecting any thing.
Demetrius was afterwards contriving to make an attack upon the
city in the night, at that part of the wall which had fallen down.-
To this end he picked out the best of his soldiers, avd some others,
fit for the purpose, in all to the amount of fifteen hundred, whom he
commanded to approach the walls secretly, about the second watch.
He himself stood ready with the rest of the army, and gave orders
to the officers of every regiment, upon a signal given, to set up a
shout, and foribwith to make an assault upon the city both by sea
and land; who all executed his commands accordingly: and pre-
sently one party made to the ruins, and killing the watch at the
trench, broke into the city, and possessed themselves of all the pla-
ces round the theatre. The Rhodians seeing all the city in an up
roar upon the kuowledge of what had happened, commanded them
that guarded the port and the walls, every one to keep their several
posts, and endeavour to beat off the enemy that attempted to enters
They in the town), with the'stoutest of the citizens, and those sol-
diers who had lately come from Alexandria, attacked them that had
broke in within the walls: but as soon as it was day, Denietrius lift-
ed up the signal, at which both those who had made an attack upon
the port, and those around the walls, set up a shout all together, to
encourage the men that had entered, and were about the theatre. ---
The poor women and children throughout the whole city were in a
state of terrible fear and consternation, as if the town had been then
actually taken by storm.
However, a sharp encounter took place between the Rhodians and
those that had entered the town; and though many fell on both sides,
yet neither of them at the first gave the least ground. But after
awbile, when many more of the Rhodians came Aocking in, resol-
ved to endure the greatest extremity in fighting for their country,
and for all that was dear to them in the world, the king's party were
overborn; and Alcimus and Mantius, the commanders of the party,
after many wounds received, were there slain; most of the remain-
der were either killed upon the spot, or taken prisoners; but some
few made their escape and got to the king. Many likewise of the
Rhodians were slain at the same time, among whom was Damutetis,
president of the council, a man most renowned for his valour. De-
metrius, although he judged that fortune bad, as it were, wrung the
city out of his hands, yet prepared for another assault. But his fa-
ther writing him to make peace with the Rhodians on such terms and
conditions as he could get, he watched for the most convenient op-
portunity that might afford him a colourable pretence for an agree-
Vol. 2, No. 46,
RRR
490
Book XX
DIODORUS SICULUS.
a
set up
ment and settlement of matters between them. Ptolemy likewise,
though he had before writien to the Rhodians to acquaint them that
he intended to send them a great quantity of corn, and three thou-
sand men, yet afterwards advising them to treat and agree with An-
tigonus upon any reasonable conditions, they all inclined to peace.
At the same time likewise, the Ætolian commonwealth sent ambas-
sadors to negotiate a pacification. The Rhodians therefore at length
struck up a peace with Demetrius upon the conditions following:-
" That the city should remain subject to its own laws, and should
be without a garrison: that they should enjoy their own estates and
revenues: that they should join with Antigonus in his wars against
all persons except Ptolemy; and that they should deliver a hundred
citizens as hostages, such as Demetrius should make choice of, ex-
cept such as were magistrates.” And thus the Rhodians, after a
whole year's siege, put an end to the war, honouring those with just
rewards, who approved themselves honest and faithful to their coun-
try: and such slaves as had behaved themselves stoutly and valiant-
ly, they set free, and enrolled them as members of the city. They
likewise the statues of the kings, Ptolemy, Cassander, and
Lysimachus, and of some others inferior to them, who yet had con-
tributed much to the safety of the place. But, that they might ex-
press their gratitude and thankfulness to Ptolemy above all the rest,
they sent some of their priests to consult the oracles of Ammon,
whether they should worship Ptolemy as a god? And being an-
swered that they should, they consecrated to him a four-square
grove in their city, building on every side thereof a gallery of a fur-
long in length, and called it Ptolemæum, or Ptolemy's gallery.--
They repaired also the theatre, and the parts of the walls that were
thrown down, and made them, and all the other places which had
beeu damaged, far more beautiful and glorious than they were
before.
Demetrius, having ratified the peace with the Rhodians, (accord-
ing to his father's commands), loosed from thence with his whole
army, and, passing by the islands, he arrived at Aulis in Bæutia,
minding with all speed to set the Grecians at liberty; for Cassander
and Polyperchon, grown bold through the absence of the enemy,
had not long before wasted and harassed many parts of Greece.
And first of all he freed the city of the Chalcidians from a garrison
of the Baotians, and forced the Baotians (out of' fear of him) to
fall off from their league with Cassander. Afterwards, confederating
with the Ætolians, he prepared to make war upon Polyperchon and
Cassander.
During these transactions, Eumelus, the king of the Cimmerian,
a
Chap. V.
491
DIODORUS SICULUS.
>
Bosphorus, having now reigned six years, ended his days; after
whom succeeded Spartacus, his son, who reigned twenty years.
Having now given an account of the affairs of Greece and Asia, we
shall pass over to other parts of the world.
In Sicily, Agathocles on a sudden, and without any provocation,
invaded the inhabitants of the Lipari islands, being then in full and
perfect peace and security, and exacted from them fifty talents of
silver. At which time, many thought that it was spoken from a di-
vine spirit, when it was said.
That God would remarkably pursue
him for his wickedness. The Liparians then desired him, that he
would give some time to make up the money that was short, declar-
ing, that to that time they never made use of the dedicated treasure:
but Agathocles forced them to give him the money that was in the
sacred treasury*, upon some of which was stamped the image of
Æolus, and upon others Vulcan; and when he had got it, he set sail,
and away he went: but there arose a storm, which broke in pieces
eleven of the ships that carried the money: which gave occasion to
many to conclude, that olus (who is said to have command of the
winds in those parts) executed vengeance upon him at his first set-
ting forth; and that Vulcan, at his latter end, punished the tyrant in
his own country according to the just desert of his wickedness, burn-
ing him alive with hot coals: for it was one and the same justice and
divine will that forbore and passed over those that saved and preserved
their parents at the foot of Mount Æina, and that exerted his power
in punishing those that had impiously prophaned the deity. But what
is now said concerning the return and misfortunes of Agathocles shall
be further confirmed, when we come to the time proper for that re-
lation; but now we must apply ourselves to what was done in those
parts of Italy that lay bordering upon one another.
The Romans and Samoites, after a war of two-and-twenty years
and six months continuance, by their mutual ambassadors at length
made peace one with another. But Sempronius, one of the consuls,
broke into the country of the Æqui, and took forty towns in forty days
time at the most; and, bringing the whole country into absolute sub-
jection to the Roman yoke, returned home, and most worthily and
gloriously triumphed. But the Romans entered into a league with
tie Viarsi, Peligni, and Marrucini.
Vi hen the last year was ended, Leostratus was chosen chief magis,
trate of Athens for this succeeding, and Servius Cornelius and Lucius
Genucius were created consuls at Rome. In the time of whose
go-
vernments, Demetrius resolved to make war upon Cassander, and to
restore liberty to the Grecians; and above all other concerns, to put
In the Prytaneum,
492
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULI'S.
the affairs of Greece into a good and happy condition; because he
hoped by the liberty granted thereby both to advance his own reputa-
tion, and also to break those captains of Cassander's who were joined
with Prepelaus, and that, by falling upon Cassander, he should gain
the sovereign power to himself. The city of Sicyon was then held
by a garrison of Ptolemy the king, of which Philip, a brave and gal-
lant man, was governor: upon this place Demetrius made a sudden
attack in the night, and broke in within the walls; whereupon the
garrison-soldiers presently hurried into the castle. Demetrius, being
now possessed of the town, posted himself between the houses and
the citadel; and being just upon the point of bringing up his en-
gines, they within were so terrified, that they surrendered upon terms,
and then sailed away into Egypt. Afterwards, having prevailed with
the Sicyonians to remove and settle themselves within the castle, he
laid that part of the city adjoining to the haven even with the ground,
which was a place before every way strongly fortified: then joining
with the inhabitants, and helping them to build houses*, and re-
storing them to their former liberty, he was honoured by those he had
thus obliged as a demi-god; for they called the city Demetriades,
and appointed sacrifices, festivals, and sports, with other honours, to
be yearly celebrated and offered in memory of him as the builder
of their city. But time and turns of fortune put an end to these
solemnities.
The Sicyonians therefore, being fixed in a far better place than
they were before, have continued there from that very time to this
day: for the site of the citadel is large and plain, compassed in on
every side with inaccessible rocks, so that no engine can possibly
approach or come near it: it is furnished likewise with plenty of wa-
ter, by which the inhabitants greatly enriched their gardens and ore
chards: and therefore all approved the wisdom and ingevious con-
trivance of the king, who had provided for them every thing conduc-
ing to their pleasure in time of peace, and to their protection and se-
curity in time of war. Having settled all things at Sicyon, he marched
thence with his whole arniy to Corinth, which Prepelaus, Cassander's
general, then held with a strong garrison; where being presently let
in by the citizens in the night, (through a little sally-port), be gained
the city, together with the havens. The soldiers in garrison hereupon
Hled, some of them into the Sisyphiumt, (as it is called), others into
the citadel: whereupon the engines being brought up to the fortifi-
cations, after much toil and labour, he took Sisyphium by storm.
The besieged had (before he entered) all fled to them that were in
the citadel; but he so terrified them also, that he forced them to
• Iu the citadel. † Palace.
Chap. V.
493
DIODORUS SICULUS.
surrender: for this king in assaults was not to be resisted; and in
inventing of engines for the assaulting of places was extraordinarily
ingenious.
And now, although he restored the Corinthians to their liberty, yet
he put a garrison into the citadel*, because the citizens desired to
continue under the king'st protection until he had subdued Cas-
sander : and so Prepelaus, having thus poorly lost Corinth, went to
Cassander.
Then Demetrius marched into Achaia, and took Buta by assault;
and within a few days after, he had Scyros delivered up to him, and
expelled the garrison thence; and, moving forward, he freed all the
rest of the cities of Achaia. Then encamping at Ægeum, he lay
with his army round the walls; aud, upon a parley with Strombichus
the governor, demanded the surrender of the town: but he not only
refused, but railed against Demetrius from the walls, and gave him
base language; whereupon the king brought up the engines, bat-
tered down the wall, and took the city by storm, and there crucified
Strombichus, (who was placed there as governor by Polyperchon),
and about fourscore more that were his inveterate enemies, before
the walls of the town. And from among the prisoners he picked
out two thousand mercenaries, and intermixed them amongst his own
Tegiments.
After the taking of this city, they who held the neighbouring forts
and castles thought it to no purpose to oppose the king; and there-
fore all surrendered their garrisons. And all the governors of cities,
seeing that Cassander and Polyperchon sent them no assistance, and
that Demetrius with a potent army, and with engines the greatest that
ever came into the field, was ready to fall upon them, surrendered all
up to him. And thus stood the affairs of Demetrius.
In Italy, the Tarentines (being at war with the Lucanians and the
Romans) sent ambassadors to Sparta desiring aid, and that Cleonymus
might be sent them for their general. The Lacedæmonians readily
granted the general that was desired; and the Tarentines sent ships
and money, wherewith Cleonymus raised five thousand men, and
mustered them at Tenarus in Laconia; and thence by a short cut
sailed to Tarentum, where he hired as many mercenaries as the for-
mer, and listed some of the citizens: in the whole he raised above
twenty thousand foot, and two thousand horse. He joined to his
army likewise many Greeks of Italy, together with the Messapians;
whereupon the Lucanians, being terrified with the greatness of his
army, made peace with the Tarentines: only the Metapontians stood
Acro Corintho.
† Antigonus's protection, who had assumed the title of king, as is said beforo.
494
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
off; and therefore he required the Lucanians to join with him in
spoiling and harassing their country; and accordingly making use of
a fit opportunity, he broke in upon them, and put them into a terri-
ble fright: and, though he entered into the city as a friend, yet he
trapanned the citizens out of six thousand talents of silver and up-
wards, and took away two hundred young ladies of the best quality
for hostages, not so much to secure the performance of the league,
as to gratify his own brutish lusts; for he threw off his Laconic ha-
bit, and gave up himself to all manner of voluptuousness, and brought
them into bondage and slavery who had committed themselves to
his care and protection. For, though he had so great an army, and
so well provided, yet he did nothing worthy the name of a Spartan.
He determined, indeed, to make an expedition into Sicily, under co-
lour of overturning the tyranny of Agathocles, and to restore the Si-
cilians to their antient laws and liberties; but omitting that for the
present, he sailed to Corcyra, and, having taken the city, got there a
vast treasure, and garrisoned the place, designing to make use of
that as a town and citadel of war, and thence to manage all the af-
fairs of Greece. Forthwith ambassadors came to him froin Deme-
trius, Poliorcetes, and Cassander, severally, to solicit him to join
them as confederates; but he joined neither.
Afterwards, hearing that the Tarentines and some others had re-
volted and deserted him, he left a sufficient garrison at Corcyra, and
with the remainder of his forces sailed in a great rage into Italy, with
a resolution to execute exemplary punishment upon those who had
rebelled. Arriving at the very place where the barbarians kept guard,
he took the city; and after he had sold the men for slaves, he de
vastated and harassed all the country. He took also a town called
Triopius by assault, and carried thence thrce thousand captives.
But about this time the barbarians got into a body, and attacked his
camp in the night, killed above two hundred of bis soldiers, and
took about a thousand prisoners: and on the back of this misfortune
there arose a violent storm, which destroyed twenty of his ships as
they lay at anchor near his camp.
Being grieved and plagued with these misfortunes falling one
upon the neck of another, Cleonymus returned with bis forces to
Corcyra.
The former year being past, this year Nicocles executed the oflice
of Lord Chancellor of Athens, and Marcus Livius and Marcus Æ.
milius were consuls at Rome: at which time Cassander, king of
Macedon, perceiving the armies of his enemies to increase, aud that
the impending storm was ready to fall with all its weight upon him,
was ia much alarm concerning the issue of the event. He there.
Chap. D.
495
DIODORUS SICULUS.
fore sent ambassadors into Asia to Antigonus, to entreat him to be
reconciled, and make peace with him: who fiercely and roughly an-
swered-
_That he would own no peace which should be made with
him, unless Cassander would deliver up all into his hands. At this
answer he was greatly terrified, and sent for Lysimachus out of
Thrace, to venture all in a common lot together: for at all times, in
his greatest straits, his manner was to have recourse to him for re-
lief, both on account of his valour, and because his kingdom bor-
dered upon Macedonia. These two kings therefore, consulting to-
gether how to manage their mutual affairs to the best advantage,
sent ambassadors to Ptolemy king of Egypt, and to Seleucus, prince
of the higher provinces, giving them an account of the proud an-
swer of Antigonus; and representing to them_That they were all
in equal danger by this war; for if Antigonus gained Macedonia, he
would presently swallow up the rest; and that he had upon several
occasions given a clear discovery of his covetousness and ambition;
and that he would bare none to participate with him in any part of
the empire; and therefore, that it was very ſit and expedient that
they should all join together against him.
Ptolemy and Seleucus, judging what was said to be certainly true,
readily came into the league, and raised numerous forces to assist in
the war. However, Cassander judged it not prudent to suffer the
enemy first to break in upon him, but that it was rather for his ad-
vantage to be beforehand with them, and fall first upon them. To
that end he delivered part of the army to Lysimachus, and sent a ge-
neral along with them; and he himself marched with the rest into
Thessaly, to fight witlı Demetrius and the other Grecians.
Lysimachus with his army passed over out of Europe into Asia,
and set free the inhabitants of Lampsacus and Paros, who had sided
with him upon their own accord: but taking Sigæum by assault, he
placed a garrison in it: and then commilied six thousand foot and
a thousand horse to the charge of Prepelaus, and sent him to take the
cities in Æolia and lonia: but he himself in the first place design-
ed to besiege Abydos, and carried along with him darts, battering
rams, and other engines for that purpose. But a great number of
soldiers being sent by sea from Demetrius for the defence of the ci-
ty, he laid aside his design; and having taken the Hellespont and
Phrygia, he went forward and besieged the city of Synada, where
the king's * magazine lay; and at the same time drew over Docimus,
a commander of Antigonus's party, to join the common cause; and
by his help took both Synada and other forts where the king's trea-
sures were laid
up.
• Antigonus.
496
Book XX.
DIODORUS Sicuiüs.
.
In the mean time Prepelaus, who was sent to make war upon
Æolia and Ionia, by the way took Adramyttium, and besieged Epbe-
sus; and so terrified the inhabitants, that they submitted: and find-
ing there the hostages which the Rhodians had given to Demetrius,
he sent them all home again to their friends, and did not hurt any
of the Ephesians in their persons; but he set on fire all the ships he
found in the harbour, because the enemy still commanded all at
sea, and because the issue of the war was as yet uneertain. After
this, he joined to him the Teians and Colophonians. But as for
Erythræ and Clazomenæ, they had succour sent them by sea, and
therefore he could not take them: but having wasted their territo-
ries, he departed for Sardis; and there he drew over, by fair words,
Phænix and Docimus, two of Antigonus's captains, and took the
city itself, all but the castle, into his protection. As for the castle,
Philippus, a friend of Antigonus's, kept it, and would not betray his
trust. Antigonus was at that time wholly taken up in making sports
and feasts in Antigonia, and had proclaimed great prizes for such as
would put in for them, and large wages to all expert artificers that
could be found.
But when he heard that Lysimachus was come into Asia, and that
his soldiers revolted to him by multitudes, he discontinued his sports,
and distributed among the wrestlers and artificers no less than two
hundred talents; and then taking his army with him, left Syria, and
by long marches hastened to meet the enemy. As soon as he came
to Tarsus in Cilicia, out of the monies which he took with him from
the city of Quinda, he gave his army three months pay beforehand;
and besides this, he brought three thousand talents along with him,
in order that there should be no lack of money if need should call
for it. Then passing the Taurus, he quickened his march into Cap-
padocia, and reduced all the cities in the Upper Phrygia and Laco-
nia which had formerly revolted from him; and these served him in
the wars as they did before.
Then Lysimachus, hearing of the enemy's approach, consulted
with his council, in this imminent danger, what was fittest to
be done: and their advice was, by no means to hazard a battle till
Seleucus came down from the upper provinces; but to take posses-
sion of the strongest places, and to intrench himself in the best man-
ner he could, with ramparts, palisades, and stakes, and there await
the coming of the enemy. Lysimachus having heard this advice,
put it seriously into execution: and Antigonus on the other band,
as soon as he came near his camp, drew out in battalia, and endea-
voured to provoke Lysimachus to fight: but seeing he would not,
he went and kept all the passages by which any victuals might come
Chap. V.
497
DIODORUS SICULUS.
into the camp. Whereupon Lysimachus fearing lest he should fall
into the hands of the enemy through want of provisions, removed
by night; and having marched four hundred furlongs, came to Do-
rylæum, and there encamped; for in those parts there was abun-
dance of corn and other provisions, having a river at the back of him
as a defence to his camp. Wherefore, having raised a work and en-
closed it with an exceeding deep trench, and pallisadoed it witli
three rows of stakes, he made all sure as he thought. But Antigo-
nus finding the enemy gone, pursued bim with all speed; and com-
ing near to the place where he lay intrenched, and seeing no dispo-
sition in him to fight, he presently fell to work and drew another
trench around his camp, in order to besiege him there; and for that
purpose caused darts, arrows, and catapults, to be brought thither to
him. And though many skirmishes were made about the trenches,
because Lysimachus's men endeavoured by their darts and arrows
to drive the enemy from their works, yet Antigonus's party had still
the better of it in every encounter. For in process of time Antigo-
nus's works came to be almost finished; but Lysimachus's provi-
sions began to fail; who therefore taking advantage of a tempestu-
ous night, made off with his army, and through mountainous coun-
tries reached his winter-quarters. But when Antigonus the next
morning perceived that the enemy was gone, he also marched after
him, through the champaign country; but there having fallen a
great quantity of rain, and the ways being thereby foul and deep, he
Jost many of his carriages, and some of his men also in that journey;
and the whole army was in great distress: wherefore, in order to
spare his men, and the winter coming on, he gave up the pursuit ;
and casting about for the fittest places, he distributed his army into
winter-quarters. But on receiving intelligence that Seleucus was
marching down from the higher provinces with a numerous army,
he sent one of his friends into Greece to Demetrius, commanding
him with all speed to come to him with his forces. For he was ex-
tremely alarmed, lest all the kings joining together should force him
to fight, and so lay all at stake before the forces out of Europe could
join him.
Lysimachus in the like manner sent his army to be quartered in
the country of Salmonia, having made large provision for them out
of Heraclea, he being in alliance with them of that city: for he mar-
ried Amestris, the daughter of Oxyartes, niece to the late king Da-
ríus, whom Alexander gave to Craterus to be his wife, and now at
this time governess of the city. And thus stood the affairs of Asis
at that time.
But as to the affairs of Greece, Demetrius being at Athens, he
Vol. 2. No. 46.
SSS
498
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
:
greatly desired to be initiated into the sacred mysteries of Ceres and
Eleusina: but in regard that the time appointed by the law, and
commonly spent by the Athenians in performing the ceremonies of
this solemnity, was very long and tedious, be entreated the people
that, in return of his former kindness to them, they would alter their
antient custom; which they agreed to do. Whereupon he com-
mitted his person unarmed into the hands of the priests; and thus
being initiated before the legal day, he departed from Athens, aud
then rendezvoused both his fleet and land army at Chalcis, in Bæo-
tia: but hearing that Cassander had blocked up all the passes, he
judged it unsafe to go by land into Thessaly, and therefore sailed
with the army into the haven of Larissa, and there landed his men;
upon which the city was immediately surrendered to him: but the
citadel he took by force of arms, and bound all the soldiers in
the garrison in chains, kept them close prisoners, and restored the
people of Larissa to their antient laws and liberties. Then he took
Prona and Pteleum. Cassander had commanded the inhabitants of
Dion and Orchomenum, two cities in Thessaly, to remove and seta
tle at Thebes: but Demetrius put a stop to this measure. Cassan-
der, when he saw that every thing went as Demetrius would have
it, strengthened the garrisons of Pheræ and Thebes, and rendezvous-
ed his forces in the face of the Demetrians. His whole army con-
sisted of twenty-nine thousand foot, and two thousand horse.
Those who followed Demetrius amounted to fifteen hundred horse,
at least eight thousand Macedonian foot, and fifteen thousand mer-
cenaries; and out of the cities of Greece twenty-five thousand;
besides several regiments of light-armed men; and a disorderly
rabble of sordid fellows out of all nations, to the number of at least
eight thousand, such as are used to follow camps only to rob and
plunder wherever they come: so that the whole land army consisted
of fifty-six thousand men.
The armies had now lain opposite to each other for several days,
and though they were drawn up in battalia on both sides, yet nei-
ther attempted to fight, solicitously expecting to hear how things
passed in Asia. At that time, Demetrius entered with part of his
army into the city of Pheræ, being invited thither by the inhabitants;
and took the citadel, and dismissed all Cassander's soldiers on the
terms agreed upon, and restored the Pheræans to their former liber-
ties.
While these things were acting in Thessaly, the messengers from
Antigonus came to Demetrius, who delivered his father's commands,
and ordered him to transport his forces over into Asia, with all the
speed imaginable.
Chap. D.
499
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Whereupon, looking upon it as a thing of absolute necessity to
obey his father, he forthwith concluded a peace with Cassander,
upon condition that his father should approve of it; not in the least
doubting but he would make all void, whom he knew had resolved
to put an end to the war by no other means than by force of arms.
However, he was willing to manage his business so, that he should
have a feasible pretence for leaving Greece, and not to resemble a
flight. For among other matters, he took care to have it inserted
in the articles of peace_That all the Greek cities, both in Greece
and Asia, should enjoy their antient laws and liberties. At length,
having got ships together to transport his army and the carriages,
he set sail with his whole force, and steering a right course through
the islands of the Ægean sea, came to Ephesus; and there landing
his army encamped before it, reduced it to its former obedience,
and suffered the garrison which Prepelaus had put there safely to
depart. Then putting a strong garrison of bis own into the castle,
went off with the rest of his army as far as the Hellespont, where
he reduced the Lampsacenians and Parians, and other revolted ci-
ties, to his subjection. And thence going to the mouth of Pontus,
encamped near the Temple of the Chalcidonians, and there forti-
fied; which done, he left there three thousand foot, with thirty sail
of good ships to guard the port, and sent the remainder of his army
into winter-quarters in the neighbourhood.
About this time Mithridates, who was subject to Antigonus, be-
ing suspected of favouring Cassander's party, was slain at Cius, in
the country of Mysia; of which, and of Arthiras, he had been prince
thirty-five years. His son, also called Mithridates, succeeded hiin
in his principality, and added to his dominions Cappadocia and
Paphlagonia, which he held for thirty-six years.
In these days Cassander, after the departure of Demetrius, reco-
vered all the cities lying on the sea-coast, and sent Plistarchus in-
to Asia, with an army of twelve thousand foot, and five hundred
horse, to assist Lysimachus. But Plistarchus coming to the mouth
of Pontus, found that strait occupied by the enemy: and thereupon
despairing of any passage that way, went to Odessus, which lies be-
tween Apollonia and Galatia, over against Heraclea, where a part of
Lysimachus's army lay. But not having shipping enough for the
transportation of all his forces at that place, he divided his army in-
to three parts. The first landed safely at Heraclea; the second was
defeated by the enemy's ships which lay at the straits of Pontus; and
the third, wherein Plistarchus himself was, being overtaken by a
violent tempest, the greatest part of the ships, with the men in them,
perished. Among the rest, the ship in which he was, being a vessel'
500
Book XX.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
1
1
of six tiers of oars, and all the men in her, (which could not be less
than five hundred), except thirty-three, (of whom Plistarchus was
one), were all lost; getting upon a plank when the ship went to
pieces, he was cast on shore half dead: but recovering a little, he
was afterwards carried to Heraclea, and there recovering his strength,
he went to Lysimachus in his winter-quarters, after having lost the
greatest part of his army.
About the same time, Ptolemy coming with an excellently well-
appointed army out of Egypt, reduced all the cities of Cælosyria to
his obedience. But when he lay in siege before Sidon, there came a
false rumour to him, that a battle had been fought, wherein Lysi-
machus and Seleucus were routed and fled to Heraclea, and that
Antigonus was thereupon hastening into Syria with his victorious
army.
Ptolemy giving too easy credit to this report, made a truce with
the Sidonians for five months; and putting garrisons into other ci-
ties which he had taken in those parts, returned into Egypt.
While these things thus passed, two thousand Autariats, and
about eight hundred Lycians and Pamphilians, soldiers belonging to
Lysimachus, fled over to Antigonus, out of their winter-quarters,
and Antigonus entertained them very courteously, furnishing them
with such pay as they said Lysimachus owed them, and also rewarded
them with large sums of money over and above.
About the same time also Seleucus, with a great army, came
down out of the upper provinces into Cappadocia, and wiotered his
army under tents which he brought with him ready made. His ar-
my consisted of twenty thousand foot, and about twelve thousand
horse, including his archers on horse-back, and four hundred and
eighty elephants, and a hundred iron chariots. Thus these kings
joined their forces, resolving the next summer to decide the con-
troversy by the sword. But we shall give an account of the wars
among these princes in the beginning of the next book, according as
we first designed
THE END.
THE FRAGMENTS
OF
DIODORUS SICULUS,
OUT OF
SOME OF HIS BOOKS THAT ARE LOST.
503
DIODORUS SICULUS.
FRAGMENTS.
TO THE READER.
THE last twenty books of Diodorus Siculus are entirely lost, ex-
cept some eclogues or fragments in Photius's Bibliotheca, and
others, recovered by Hoes Chelius, and published by Laurentius
Rhodomannus, which contained an account of affairs for the space
of two hundred and forty-four years, or thereabouts; that is, from
the end of the hundred and ninteenth olympiad, (when Antigonus
and Demetrius Poliorcetes were routed by Ptolemæus Lagus and
the other confederates, A. M. 3650), to the end of the hundred
and eightieth olympiad, at which time Julius Cæsar made his first
expedition into Britain, which was in the six hundred and ninety-
third year of the city of Rome, as Eutropius accounts, in his sixth
book.
The reader is desired to observe _That these being but fragments,
or pieces of Diodorus, recovered, as it were, out of the rubbish of
antiquity, the relations are often broken, and new matter sometimes,
begun, which has no coherence with what went before.
Where they are broken, they are noted generally thus,
The new matter is easily discerned by observation.
504
THE FRAGMENTS OF
A FRAGMENT
Out of the Sixth Book of the Bibliotheca of Diodorus Siculus, ta.
ken out of Eusebius Pamphilius Book II.
THESE therefore are the most remarkable things which are re-
corded among the Atlantides concerning the gods; and they say,
the Grecians use the same rites and ceremonies. The same things
Diodorus says in the third book of his history; and Diodorus also
confirms the same theology in his sixth book, from the history of
Evemerus the Messenian, where these are his words –The antients
held two opinions (which are brought down to posterity) concerning
the gods: some they say are immortal and incorruptible, as the sun,
moon, and the rest of the stars; and likewise the winds, and other
things of the like nature, for none of these have either beginning or
end. But there are others, they say, that are earthly gods, but for
their good deeds to the benefit of mankind, have attained to the
highest pitch of honour and glory; and such were Hercules, Dio-
nysius or Bacchus Aristæus, and such like. Of these terrestrial
gods, many and various stories are related by historians and mytho-
logists. Among the historians, Evemerus has composed a sacred
history, and written peculiarly of these deities. Among the mytho-
logists, or poets, Homer, Hesiod, Orpheus, and others of that sort,
have feigned most prodigious stories of the gods. We shall endea-
vour briefly to run over what has been written by both, observing a
kind of middle course. Evemerus, a special friend of king Cassan-
der, being forced to undertake some great and weighty affairs, and
long and tedious voyages for the king, they say, was driven to a vast
distance through the ocean, southward; and departing from Arabia
Felix, after many days sail, arrived at certain islands situated in the
midst of the ocean; the greatest of which was one called Panchaia,
in which he saw the people very zealous and eminent for religion,
who adored the gods with magnificent and pompous sacrifices, and
rich gifts both of gold and silver. They say, moreover, that the
island is consecrated to the gods, and that there were many other
things in it which were admirable, both for their antiquity and ex-
cellency of workmanship; of which we have given a particular ac.
count in the preceding books. That there is likewise in it, upon
DIODORUS SICULUS.
505
the top of a high mountain, a temple dedicated to Jupiter Triphy-
lius, built by him wheu he conversed here with men, and governed
the whole world; in which temple there is a golden pillar, whereon
are distinctly described in Panchaian letters, the acts of Uranus *,
Saturn, and Jupiter. Afterwards he says _That the first king was
Uranus, a just and good man, and very skilful in astrology; and
that he was the first that adored the heavenly gods, and was therefore
called Uranus: and that he begat on his wife Vesta two sons, Pan
and Saturn, and two daughters, Rhea and Ceres. He says, more-
over, that Saturu reigned after Uranus, and married Rhea, and be-
gat Jupiter, Juno, and Neptune; and that Jupiter, succeeding Sa-
turn, married Juno, Ceres, and Themis: on the first of which he
gat the Curetes, Proserpina on the second, and Minerva on the
third; and that afterwards coming to Babylon, he was entertained
by Belus. Aud that from thence arriving at the island of Panchaia,
he erected an altar to Uranus's grandfather; and then passing
through Syria, he came to prince Cassius, from whom the mount
tain was called mount Cassius. Then travelling into Cilicia, he
overcame Cilix, the lord of the couotry; and having at last passed
through several other nations, was highly honoured by all, and stiled
a god. When he had delivered these, and such like matters con-
cerning the gods, as of mortal men, he subjoins this __“ Let this
“ therefore suffice in reference to Evemerus, who wrote the sacred
“ history.”
And as to what the Greeks fabulously report concerning the gods,
we shall endeavour to give as succinct an account as we can, tracing
the steps of Homer, Hesiod, and Orpheus.
>
A FRAGMENT.
George Monachus, or the Monk, who wrote a history in Greek, out
of Diodorus, concerning the Corinthian kingdom.
HAVING given an account of these things, it remains that we should
now speak of Corinth and Sicyon, how they were planted and inha-
bited by the Dorians; for almost all the nations in Peloponnesus,
except the Arcadians, were removed froin their antient seats at the
* Cælum, heaven.
VOL. 2. No. 46
TTT
806
THE FRAGMENTS OF
time of the return of the Heraclidæ; who, leaving out Corinth in the
division, sent messengers to Alethes, and gave him the said province,
together with the neighbouring territory. This man became very
famous, and enlarged Corinth, where he reigned thirty-eight years.
After his death, the eldest and next' of kin ever succeeded in the
kingdom, down to the reign of Cypselus, four hundred and twenty-
seven years after the return of the Heraclidæ. The first that reigned
at Corinth after Alethes was Ixion, who held the kingdom thirty-eight
years; after whom, Agesilaus reigned thirty-seven years; and after
them, Prumnides thirty-five years, and his son Bacchis as long, who
was the most famous and renowned of any of his ancestors, so that
those who reigned after him were not called Heraclidæ, but Bac-
chidæ. After Bacchis, Agilaus enjoyed the throne thirty years; Eu-
damus, twenty-five; Aristomedes, thirty-five, who after his death left
behind him a son called Telestas, a little child, who was deprived of
his father's kingdom by Agemon, his uncle and guardian, who reigoed
sixteen years; after him, Alexander came to the crown, and enjoyed
it twenty-five years, and was then killed by Telestas, who had been
before deprived of the kingdom of his ancestors, which he now re-
gained, and possessed it twelve years, and then was murdered by some
of his own kindred, and Automenes reigned in his stead one year:
after which the Bacchidæ, the posterity of Hercules, enjoyed the
kingdom for above two hundred years, and all governed together with
equal authority; but every year they created one of themselves Pry-
tanis, who had the power of a monarch for ninety years, till the time
of Cypselus, who put an end to that sort of government. These there-
fore are the kings of Corinth. Bacchis reigned thirty-five years.
A FRAGMENT.
The same George of the origin of the Romans, out of the seventh
book of Diodorus Siculus.
SOME writers have erroneously held, that Romulus, who built Rome,
was the son of Æneas: but this cannot possibly be true, since there
were many kings that reigned in course between Æneas and Romu-
1 is, the city being built the second year of the seventh Olympiad,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
507
which was above four huudred and thirty years after the Trojan war.
For Æneas gained the kingdom of the Latins three years after the
destruction of Troy, and reigned only three years, and after his death
was adored as a god. Ascanius, his son, succeeded him, and built
Alba, called at this day Longa. He gave the city this name from
the river which was then called Alba, and now Tiber: but Fabius,
who wrote an history of the Roman affairs, speaks otherwise of the
naining of this city. For he tells a story, that Æneas was foretold
by the oracle, that a four-footed beast should shew him the way to
the place where a new city should be built, which came thus to pass :
being about to sacrifice a white* sow then big with young, she made
her escape, and ran away to a hill, whither she was pursued, and
there she brought forth thirty pigs. Æneas, wondering at the acci-
dent, and calling to mind the answer of the oracle, forthwith went
about to settle inhabitants in the place; but being warned by a vi-
sion in the night to desist, and not to build till after thirty years then
next ensuing, he left off his design till the number of years was
completed.
a
Here follow the Eclogues or Fragments of Diodorus Siculus, out
of books twenty-one to twenty-six inclusive, which are now lost,
BOOK XXI.
1. ALL vice is to be avoided by every wise man, but especially co-
vetousness: for this (through hopes and desire of gain) prompts
many to acts of injustice, and so becomes the occasion of the great,
est mischiefs to mankind; for being in the very highest sphere of
wickedness, it involves not only mean men, but even kings them-
selves, in extreme , calamities. For Antigonus, king of Asia, as an
example of this truth, out of his insatiable desire, beginning a war
against four other kings, (who joined against him), viz. Ptolemy La-
gus, king of Egypt, Seleucus, king of Babylon, Lysimachus, of
Thrace, and Cassander, the son of Antipater, king of Macedonia,
perished in battlet, being shot through the body with multitudes of
darts and arrows, (though afterwards buried in a royal manner), and
his son Demetrius, with his mother Stratonice, who were then in Ci-
Alba signifies white,
At Issus in Phrygia. Plut. in Pyrılıus
508
THE FRAGMENTS OF
licia, were forced to sail away with all the wealth they had to Salamis
in Cyprus, that remaining still in the hands of Demetrius.
2. Agathocles, king of Sicily, burnt all the Macedonian fleet, and
so freed Corcyra, when it was besieged by Cassander both by sea and
land, and very near and likely to be taken. Oh the many uncertain-
ties of war! For folly and fraud many times effect as great things as
true valour and courage.
3. Agathocles, being returned to the rest of his army from Cor-
eyra, when he heard that the Ligurians and Tyrrhenians (who were
his mercenary soldiers) had assisted those who killed his son Archa-
gathus in his absence, put them all to the sword, to the number of
two thousand: upon which account the Brutii deserting him, he re-
solved to besiege their city called Æthas*. But the barbarians in
great numbers falling upon him suddenly in the night, cut off four
thousand of his men, and so he returned to Syracuse.
4. Agathocles rigged out a great fleet, and sailed into Italy; and,
having a design to march his army to Crotona, he sent a messenger
before to Menedemus, king of Crotona, who was his particular friend,
not to be afraid of his motion; which was merely to deceive him;
and, purposing to besiege the place, he gave out that he was sending
away his daughter Lanassa with a royal fleet to Epiruş, to marry her;
and by this fraud he came upon them when they were unprovided,
and never suspected him. Thereupon, applying himself with all
earnestness to the siege, he blocked up the place by a wall drawu
from sea to sea; and, having by his mines and batteries ruined the
greatest house of the town, the Crotoneans out of fear opened their
gates, and received his army into the city, who, breaking in like a
flood, first rifled all the houses, and then put all the men to the sword.
He likewise made a league with the neighbouring barbarians, the Ja-
pygians, and Peucetians, furnishing them with ships for piracy, and
shared with them in the robbery. At length, having put a garrison
into Crotona, he sailed back to Syracuse.
5. Diallus the Athenian writer composed a general history in
twenty-six books, and Psaon of Platæa another in thirty books.
6. In the war against the Hetruscans, Gauls, and Samnites, and
their confederates, the Romans destroyed (when Fabius was consul)
a hundred thousand men, as Duris relates.
7. Antipater, out of envy, killed his own mother. Alexander, his
brother, was likewise killed by Demetrius, whom Alexander had sent
for to his assistance. Antipater, the murderer of his mother, was also
served the same sauce by Demetrius, unwilling to have a partner in
the kingdom.
• Ælini, people of Sicily.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
509
a
8. Agathocles raised an army, and sailed over into Italy, with thirty
thousand foot, and two thousand horse; and, giving the command of
the fleet to Stilpo, he ordered him to waste and spoil the country of
the Brutii: while he was barassing the sea-coasts, he lost many of his
ships in a storm. But Agathocles, by the help of his battering en-
gines, took the city Hipponium; which so terrified the Brutii, that
they sent ambassadors to treat with him upon terms of peace; upon
which he put in a garrison, and carried away with him six hundred
hostages, and returned to Syracuse. But the Brutii made slight of
their oath, and with the whole power of the city fell upon the garrison,
and slew every man, and afterwards recovered their hostages, and freed
themselves from the yoke of Agathocles. Lenity is to be preferred
before revenge.
9. Most generals of armies, when they are brought into straits and
difficulties, (out of fear), do generally humour the multitude.
10. When the Thebans made a second defection, Demetrius bat-
tered down their walls, and took the city by storm, and put only ten
men to death, who were the ringleaders of the rebellion.
11. Agathocles sent bis son Agathocles to Demetrius, to enter in-
to a league with him, offensive and defensive. The king kindly re-
ceived the young man, and bestowed on him a royal robe, and many
other rich and princely gifts, and sent along with him Oxythemes, his
special friend, under colour of confirming the league, but in truth to
be a spy in Sicily.
12. King Agathocles, after a long peace between him and the
Carthaginjans, at length rigged out a fleet: for he designed to trans-
port an army into Libya, and with his navy to hinder the exportation
of all corn and provisions from Sardinia and Sicily to the Carthagi-
nians, who by the last war had gained the dominion of the sea, and
thereby had secured their country from invasions. And, though
Agathocles had a well furnished feet, to the number of two hundred
gallies of four and six tier of oars, yet he failed in his design, hy rea-
son of what shortly happened. For there was one Menon, an Ægis-
tan, a beautiful captive, then servant to the king, who for some time
conformed himself to a strict compliance with the king's humour,
so that he was taken into the number of his beloved* and intimate
friends. But, because of the ruin of his country, and the dishonour-
able abuse of his own person, he bore a secret hatred to the king, and
watched an opportunity to be revenged. The king, because he was
old, intrusted Archagathus with the command of the army: he was the
son of Archagathus, who was killed in Libya, and was king Agatho-
cles's grandchild; he was a man of a strong body, and of a brave and
• plis catamite.
510
THE FRAGMENTS OF
1
generous spirit, far above all the rest of his family. When he was
encamped with the army near Ætna, the king had a desire to pro-
mote bis son Agathocles to be his successor in the kingdom, and to
that end recommended the young man to the Syracusans, and de-
clared his purpose and design to have him succeed. Afterwards he
sent him to the camp with letters to Archagathus, which ordered
him to deliver up the command of all the forces both by sea and
land to his son: upon which Archagathus, perceiving that the king-
dom was designed for another, contrived the destructiou of them both:
and to that end sent a messenger to Menon of Ægista, who per-
suaded him to poison the king: Archagathus himself, celebrating a
sacrifice in a certain island where Agathocles then lay with the fleet,
invited him to the festival; and in the night (when he was dead
drunk) cut his throat, and threw his body into the sea, which being
afterwards cast up by the violence of the waves, was known by the
inhabitants, and carried to Syracuse. And whereas it was the king's
custom always after supper to pick his teeth with a quill, now rising
from the table, he called to Menon for his tooth-picker, who, having
dipped the end of it in poison, delivered it to the king, and be, never
suspecting any thing, plied all his teeth with that care and carnest-
ness, that none of his gums escaped the touch of the poison. Upon
this the king began: by little and little to be very ill, which was suc-
ceeded by violent torments in his body every day. Then an incur-
able putrefaction and rottenness covered his gums and teeth: and
now drawing near to his end, he called a senate, where he complained
of the wickedness of Archagathus, and incited the people to take re-
venge of him for his villapies, declaring that he would forth with re-
store them to their democracy. Afterwards, when he was in the very
height of his extremity, Oxythemes (who had been there a little be-
fore, sent by king Demetrius) burried bim to the funeral pile, and
burnt him while he was yet alive, and not able to speak by reason of
the foulness and filthiness of his mouth through the puison. And
thus Agathocles, for the many slaughters and murders of his reign,
and cruelties towards his own subjects, and impieties against the
gods, came to an end such as he justly deserved for his former wicka
ednesses, after he had reigned twenty-eight years, and lived seventy-
two, as Timæus the Syracusan relates, and Callias, another Syracu-
san, (who wrote two-and-twenty hooks), and Antander likewise, the
brother of Agathocles, an historian. The Syracusans, having now
regained their democratical government, confiscated all the goods
and estate of Agathocles, and broke down all bis statues, Menon,
in the mean time, who had plotted and executed the treason, was at
the camp with Archagathus, having fled thither fronSyracuse: and
DIODORUS SICULUS.
311
a
dow beginning to look very big upon it, as being a man who had
ruined the monarchy, he secretly murders Archagathus, and with
fair words and winning behaviour, brought over the army to his in-
terest, and determined to force Syracuse to obedience, and gain the
principality. Hereupon the Syracusans created Hicetas general
against Menon, who continued the war for some time; Menon
all along seeking to avoid fighting, and could by no means be
brought to engage. But when the Carthaginians joined with Me-
non, by which he became far stronger than the Syracusans, they
were forced to agree with the Carthaginians, and delivered four
hundred hostages for further security of the peace, and to restore all
the exiles. However, when the mercenary soldiers were denied
their right to vote in the choosing of magistrates, the city was pre-
sently in an uproar; and both the Syracusans and mercenaries ran
to their arms. But some of the better sort interposed, and by much
intercession prevailed with both parties to agree upon this covditioa
_That the soldiers should depart out of Sicily by such a time, and
take all their goods along with them. Hereupon the foreign sol-
diers left Syracuse, and came to Messana, where they were received
into the city as friends and confederates; and being kindly enter-
tained in their houses, in the night they massacre'd all their hosts,
and marrying their wives, seized upon the city, which they called
Mamertina, from Mars, which in their own country * language they
eall Mamers.
13. For they who are not members of the democratical govern-
ment, are not admitted by the tribune of the people to give their suf-
frages among those that are.
14. It is a commendable thing to be ever terrible to an enemy,
and always kind and courteous to a friend.
15. Since at that time, when you knew not what was best and
fittest to be done, you were caught with fair and enticing words; and
now when you see calamity upon the country indeed, you are taught
another lesson. For sometimes to be ignorant of things which may
fall out in this life, is natural to mankind; but to be deceived twice
in the same thing, argues a man to be a fool. and the oftener we
are deceived, the greater punishment we deserve. Some of the ci-
tizens have arrived at that height of covetousness, that they would
fain raise up the glory of their families by the ruin of their country.
For they who have so wickedly acted in assisting others, pray, how
have they been used by them?
16. Offences are to be forgiven, and peace to be kept for the time
to come.
* Campania.
512
THE FRAGMENTS OF
17. Not they that offend, but they who repent not of their offen-
ces, ought to be severely punished.
18. Mercy and kindness among men, is more antient than wrathi
and revenge.
19. It is a commendable and desirable thing to lay aside all ani-
mosities, and instead thereof to return to friendship and amity. For
when a man is reduced to poverty and straits, he presently, at the
first nod as it were, runs to his friends.
20. Covetousness being naturally ingrafted in men, no man can
be wholly free from that vice. Pride, and a tyrant's robes, ought to
be left at home. For he that enters into a free city, ought to con-
form himself to the laws of the place. He that is of a princely fa-
mily, and comes to a kingdom by hereditary descent, is desirous also
to succeed in the glory and reputation of his ancestors. For it is a
base and dishonourable thing to carry the name of Pyrrhus the son
of Achilles, and yet in actions to imitate Thersites *. For the more
honour and reputation any person has gained, so much the more
regard and respect will he have for them who were the instruments
of his advancement and happy successes. Therefore what may be
honourably and deservedly obtained, should not be used unjustly
and disgracefully, when it is enjoyed. It is therefore, gentlemen, &
commendable thing, by the example of other men's sufferings and
mistakes, wisely to provide for our own security.
21. It does not become any man to have more regard to stran-
gers, than his own kindred; and to be more fearful to exasperate an
enemy, than careful to preserve the good will and opinion of his
allies.
BOOK XXI.
1. IT is the natural property of the Epirots, not only to fight for
their country, but to run all hazards likewise in the defence of their
friends and allies.
2. Decius, the Roman tribune governor of Rhegium, to revenge
his country of king Pyrrhus, killed all the inhabitants except the wo-
men, whom he sold for slaves, and seized on all the goods and estates
of those thrat were slain. These were Campanians, who acted the
same cruelty here as the Mamertines did when they massacre'd all
A filthy ugly fellow killed by Achilles for his sauciness, by a box on the ear,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
513
a
the Messanians. Afterwards, because he made not an equal distri-
bution of the prey and plunder taken from those miserable people,
he was banished Rhegium by his own countrymen the Campanians.
The Mamertines themselves assisted in this butchery: and with the
money that was left, hired him to be their captain, and chief com-
mander. Afterwards, a distemper falling into his eyes, he advised
with a skilful physician, who, to revenge the injuries and cruelties
done to his country, prescribed an application of cantharides, which
wholly deprived him of his sight: and the plıysician bimself took
care to withdraw from Messana. In the mean time, there were these
princes in Sicily, Hicetas at Syracuse, Phiutias at Agrigentum. Tyn-
darus at Taurominium, and some others in the lesser cities. Phin-
tias and Hicetas were at war with each other, and fought a battle at
Hibleum, in which Hicetas was conqueror. Afterwards, making
several incursiovs upon one another, and robbing and spoiling eve-
ry where, the country hy this means lay untilled. Hicetas, puffed
up with his victory, engaged the Carthagivials at the river Terias,
where he was beaten with the loss of a great number of his men.--.
At that time Phintias built Pbintia, and planted there the Gelans,
wlio had been driven out of their country. It is situated by the sea-
side: for both the houses and walls of Gela being utterly demolish-
ed, after he had walled in Phintia, and made a stately market place,
and built temples for the service of the gods, he transplanted the
people of Gela thither. When he committed the murder, he was
hated by all the cities under his government, who drove out all the
garrisons, among the first of whom were the Agyreans.
3. King Ptolemy was killed by the Gaus, and the whole Macedo-
nian army utterly destroyed.
4. A Cadmean victory is a proverb, meant when the conquerors
have lost abundance of men, and the vanquished are but little the
worse, because of the extent of their empire.
5. Phintias, the builder of Phintia, and tyrant of Agrigentüm, in
a dream had a representation pointing out to him his own death.-
He thought he saw, as he was hunting the boar, a sow fiercely come
up to him, and strike him on the side with her teeth, which so piere-
ed him that he died.
6. Hicetas, atter be had reigned nine years at Syracuse, was de-
prived of his kingdom by Thynion the son of Maineus.
7. Thynion and Sosistratus, the successors of Hicetas, sent again
for king Pyrrhus into Sicily.
8. The Mamertines, who treacherously murdered the Messanians,
having entered into a league with the Carthaginians, in a senate de-
creed to hinder Pyrrhus from Janding in Sicily. But Tyndarus, ;
VOL. 2. No, 4G,
TEU
>
514
THE FRAGMENTS OF
tyrant of Taurominium, sided with him, and was ready to receive
into the city all those forces that joined him.
9. The Carthaginians entered into a league with the Romans, and
took five hundred men on board their own ships and sailed over to
Rhegium, and began to assault the place, but at length raised the
siege; and having set all the timber and other materials on fire,
which had been prepared for shipping, they put to sea, and there lay
to observe the motions of Pyrrhus.
10. When Thynion had the command of the Island *, and Sosistra-
tus lorded it over the Syracusans, having each an army of ten thou-
sand men, they broke out into a war with one another; but being
tired out, they both sent ambassadors to Pyrrhus.
11. Pyrrhus made war in Italy for the space of two years and four
months, and whilst he was preparing for his departure, the Cartha-
ginians closely besieged the Syracusans both by sea and land. They
had a fleet of a hundred sail, which lay in the great haven; and a
land army of fifty thousand men, encamped near the walls. With
these they penned up the Syracusans on every side, and wasting and
plundering the country round about, they even converted it into a
desolate wilderness. The Syracusaps therefore, wearied out with
the war, depended only upon Pyrrhus, in regard he had married
Lanassa, the daughter of Agathocles, of whom he had begotten
Alexander. On which account they sent daily to him; whereupon
shipping his men, elephants, and other provisions, he departed from
Tarentum, and arrived the tenth day at Locris: thence he sailed, af-
ter his landing in Sicily, 10 Tauromivium; and there being joined
by Tyndarus, prince of that city, and reinforced by him with more
soldiers, he made from thence, and came to Catana; where, being
magnificently received by the inhabitants, and laden with golden
crowns, he landed his men, with which he marched straight to Sy-
racuse, his fleet ready prepared for an engagement, sailing with him
all along the coast. When he came near to Syracuse, the Cartha-
ginians, having sent away thirty of their ships for necessary provi-
sions, durst not venture a battle with those that remained; so that
Pyrrhus came to Syracuse without any opposition; the Island being
still kept by Thynion, and the rest of the city hy the Syracasans and
Susistratus. For he had Agrigentum under his command, and ma-
ny other cities, and above ten thousand soldiers. And having then
reconciled Thynion and Sosistratus, and the Syracusans, and brought
them all to a right understanding among themselves, he was there-
upon highly esteemed and applauded. The king received weapons,
engines, and other furniture and povisions which were in the city,
. A part of the city,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
515
with a hundred and twenty decked ships, and twenty open vessels.
But* the palace belonged to Enneres. The whole navy therefore,
including those he brought along with him, consisted of two hun-
dred sail. Whilst he was thus employed, ambassadors came from
the Leontines, sent to him from Heraclidas the governor, with pro-
mise to deliver up the city into his hands, with the garrisons, and
four thousand foot and five hundred horse. There were then many
others at Syracuse, who promised to deliver up their cities to Pyrr-
hus, and to join him in the war. He received them all graciously,
and sent them back to their several countries, expecting to be short-
ly lord of Libya.
12. The port of Corinth is called Lichæum.
13. Brennus, king of the Gauls, made an inroad into Macedonia
with a hundred and forty thousand targeteers, and ten thousand
horse, and a great multitude of other foreign rabble, and many mer-
chants, together with two thousand carts and carriages. He made
great havock and slaughter, with a design to ruin them utterly. At
last he broke into Greece, and fully purposed to rifle the temple at
Delphos. By frequent engagements Brennus lost myriads of his
men, and he himself received three desperate wounds, Being
near his end, he called his army together, and made a speech to the
Gauls, and advised them to kill both him and the rest of the wounded
men, to burn their carriages, and return home with all speed, and
make Cichorius their king. Brennus at length, after he had drunk
freely of wine, ran himself through the body. Cichorius, so soon
as he had buried Brennus, knocked all the wounded men on the head,
those at least that were likely to be starved with hunger or perished
by the cold, to the number of twenty thousand; and then returned
with the remainder the same way they came. But the Grecians,
who lay in ambush in the strait and narrow passages, cut off all their
rear, and took most of their baggage. Marching forward to 'Ther-
mopyle, they there left behind them twenty thousand more for want
of food. At lengtlı, as they were passing through the country of
the Dardanians, they all perished; and not one man returned to his
own country.
14. But Pyrrhus, when he had settled all things at Syracuse and
Leontium, marched his army towards Agrigentum; and while on his
march, he was told by some from on ship-board that they had driven
put the Carthaginian garrison, in order that Phintias might not goa
vern them; and promised they would deliver the city into his hands,
# Something is wanting here, for it seems to have no coherence with what is either
before or subsequent,
516
THE FRAGMENTS OF
and join with him as confederates in the war. Having therefore re-
ceived the forces, he marched straight to Agrigentum, and received
the city and soldiers from Sosistratus, to the number of eight thou-
sand foot and eight hundred horse, nothing inferior to the Epirots.
And now he took into his protection thirty cities which were under
the command of Sosistratus. Afterwards he sent to Syracuse for
the engines of battery, and all the arms and darts; and when they
were brought to him, he marched into the territories of the Cartha-
ginians, having an army with him of thirty thousand foot and fifteen
hundred horse, and some elephants. And first he took Heraclea, a
Carthaginian garrison: then Azones; afterwards the Selinuntines
came in to the king, with the Halicyæans, Ægestines, and many
other cities. Eryx at that time had in it a very strong Carthaginian
garrison, and was besides naturally fortified, and very difficult of ap-
proach. Pyrrhus was resolved to storm this place; and for that pure
pose brought his battering rams to the walls. After a strong de-
fence for a long time, the king, desirous to make his name famous,
in imitation of Hercules, was the first that entered within the walls,
and fought with that courage and resolution, that he despatched all
the Carthaginians that came in his way. At length succours com-
ing in to him, he took the town by storm: then leaving there a strong
garrison, he marched to Eginora, a very strong place, and pleasant-
ly situated near Panormus. The inbabitants surrendered the city.
Thence he forthwith made for Panormus, which had the best har-
bour of any city in Sicily, from whence in has its name: he took it
likewise by storm. Then taking the fort at Ercte, he gained all
that belonged to the Carthaginians except Lilybæum. This city was
built by the Carthaginians after Dionysius the Tyrant had ruined
Motya: for those that were left alive after that slaughter, the Car-
thaginians placed in Lilybæum. Just as Pyrrhus was ready to be-
siege this place, a great army landed there out of Africa, having the
advantage of being masters at sea, and brought with them abundance
of corn, and an innumerable number of engines and weapons of war.
,
And because the greatest portion of the city lay near to the sea, they
were principally careful to guard that part towards the main land;
and for that purpose they raised many bulwarks and high towers, and
drew a la ge trench to prevent an approach on that side. Then they
sent ambassadors to the king to treat upon terms of peace, and to
offer him a great sum of money: -but the king refusing the money,
they desired that he would permit the Carthaginians to keep only
Lilybæum. But the confederates who were then assembled in se-
pale, and the representatives of the several cities, sent to him, and
farvestly entreated him, that he would not upon any terms whatever
DIODORUS SICULUS.
517
permit the barbarians to have any footing in Sicily, but drive the
Carthaginians wholly out of the island, and limit their power at sea.
Upon this the king encamped near the walls, and at first made seve-
ral assaults, one after another;' but the Carthaginians, being well
furnished both with men and other necessaries, beat him off: for they
had so vast a number of engines that cast darts and stones, that the
wall could scarcely contain them; which being all plied against the
assailants, they were so galled and cut off, that Pyrrhus was forced to
draw off his men. Then he began to contrive other engines, and did
all he could to undermine the walls: but the Carthaginians making a
stout resistance, and the place being all of rock, he was now out of
all hopes of taking it by force, and therefore (after two months lying
before it) he raised his siege. And now he designed to bend his
force elsewhere, and to that end to furnish himself with a great fleet,
in order to be master of the sea, and to transport a great army into
Africa.
15. When the Mamertines in Messana grew strong, they fortified
many castles, and put garrisons into them; and came presently, with
an army they had ordered to be in readiness, to the relief of Messana.
But Hiero, leaving the enemy's country, took Myle by storm, and
brought under his command fifteen hundred soldiers, and then marched
towards Amesalus, (which lies between the Centoripians* and the
Agyreanst), and, though it was a strong place, and had many sol-
diers in it, yet he took it by assault, and razed it to the ground; but
he pardoned all the garrison-soldiers, and joined them to his own
army. The territory he gave to the Centoripians and the Agyreans.
Afterwards Hiero (having a great army) marched against the Mamer-
tines, and gained Alese; and, being readily received by the Abaceni
and Tyndaridæ, he gained their cities also, and so penned up the
Mamertines into a strait and narrow corner: for on that side towards
the Sicilian sea he was lord of Taurominium, a city near Messana,
and towards the Etrurian sea he commanded the Tyndaridæ.' And
now making an incursion into the territories of Messana, he encamped
at the river Lotanus, having with him in his army ten thousand foot,
and fifteen hundred horse. The Mamertipes encamped over against
him with eight thousand foot, and but fortyf horse, under the com-
mand of Cion, who called the augurs together to consult the issue
of the battle by the view of the sacrifices; who answered _That by
the entrails the gods foretold, that he must lodge that night in the
enemy's camp: upon this he was transported with joy, to think that
he should be master of the king's camp. Hereupon he forthwith
• Or Centuripians.-Vid. postea. + Agyreans, the city Agyrium,
This seems to be a mistake.
618
THE FRAGMENTS OF
attempted to pass the river with his forces drawn up in battalia.
Hiero, on the other side, commanded two hundred exiles of Mes-
sana, (who were stout and noted men for their valour), with whom
be joined four hundred others of his best soldiers, to compass a hill
called Thorax, there near at hand, and so to come round upon the
back of the enemy, and he himself in order of battle met them in
the front. Whereupon the armies engaged, both horse and foot, (the
king having gained a rising ground near the river, much to his ad-
vantage). The issue was doubtful for some time: but they that were
ordered to the hill on a sudden fell upon the Mamertines, who (be-
ing but raw men, and tired out) were easily vanquished. At length,
being hemmed in on every side, they took to their heels: but the
Syracusans pursued them so close with their whole army, that they
cut them off every man, save the general, who, fighting with great
valour, at length fainted by the many wounds he received, and was
taken prisoner, and brought half dead into the king's camp, and
committed to the care of the surgeons; thus being brought to
spend the night, according to the prediction of the augurs, in the
enemy's camp. When the king was very earnest to have Cion
cured, some came to the king with horses they had taken in the fight:
upon which, when Cion saw his son's horse among the rest, he con.
cluded he was killed; whereupon he was so transported with passion,
that he tore in pieces all the bands and ligatures of his wounds, that
by his own death he might honour his son's. The Mamertines, bear,
ing that both their general Cion and their whole army was destroyed,
Jesolved to go and humble themselves to the king as suppliants.
However, fortune suffered not the Mamertines to be altogether lost
and undone. For it happened that at that time Hannibal, the Care
thaginian general, lay at the island Lipara; who, as soon as be heard
of this slaughter, went to the king with all speed, seemingly to con-
gratulate his victory, but in truth by some stratagem to circumvent
him: and the king, trusting to the Carthaginian's word, lay still,
But Hannibal, going to Messana, and finding the Mamertines ready
to deliver up their city, he dissuaded them, and, making a league
with them, put fortyä soldiers more into the city. Thus the Mamer-
tines (even now in despair by reason of their great slaughter) were by
this means secured from present danger. As for Hiero, (being thus
cheated by the Carthaginian general, and so discouraged from be-
sieging Messana), returned to Syracuse, after bis many successes,
Afterwards, when the Carthaginians as well as Hiero had thus lost
Messana, they had an interview, and, upon second thoughts, entered
into a confederacy to besiege the city with their joint forces,
• A nuisiale it is conceived. See before, fol. preceding.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
519
BOOK XXIII.
sana.
1. SICILY is one of the finest islands in the world, conducing mucha
by its power to the gaining and increase of a larger dominion.
2. Hanno, the son of Hannibal, as soon as he arrived in Sicily,
rendezvoused his forces at Lilybæum, and thence marched as far as
Selinus, where he left his army encamped near the city; but he him-
self went forward to Agrigentum, and fortified the citadel. Then he
brought over the people to the interest of the Carthaginians, and so
engaged them to be their confederates. After he returned to his
camp, ambassadors came to him from Hiero, to consult concerning
the public good of Sicily: for they had made a league and agreemeat
one with another to make war upon the Romans, if they would not
forthwith withdraw all their forces out of Sicily. In execution of
which they both marched with their armies to Messana, where Hiero
encamped on the hill called Chalcidicus: the Carthaginians lay
with theirs near the monuments, and possessed themselves of the
arsenal called Pelotias, and both presently laid cluse siege to Mes-
As soon as the news was brought to Rome, they sent away
Appius Claudius, one of the consuls, with a great army, who came
to Rhegium with all speed, and from thence sent ambassadors to
Hiero and the Carthaginians to raise their siege, and promised in a
general assembly not to make any incursion into the territories of
Hiero. To which Hiero answered–That the Mamertines, for their
razing and ruining of Gela and Camarina, and their cruelty and wick.
edness in getting the possession of Messana,were most justly besieged:
and that it did not become the Romans, who are so cried up in every
place for their justice and faithfulness, to protect such bloody villains,
who had contemptuously broken all the ties and bonds of faith and
truth amongst men. And if, notwithstanding, they begin a war ia
the defence of such notoriously wicked men, it will be evident and ap-
parent to all mankind, that succour to them that are in distress is but
a mere pretence to cover their covetousness, whereas in truth their
aim is to gain Sicily.
3. The Romans at first bore four-square shields, but afterwards,
when they observed the Tyrrhenians to carry brazen shields, they got
the like, and conquered them.
4. When the consul landed at Messana, Hiero, suspecting that
* Cubilcs, or lodging places,
520
THE FRAGMENTS OF
*
the Carthaginians had made way for him, fled himself to Syracuse.
The Carthaginians being at length subdued, the consul besieged
Ægesta, and, after the loss of a great number of his men, returned to
Messana.
5. When both consuls arrived in Sicily, they besieged the city
Adranum, and took it by storm. And wbile they were besieging the
Centoripians*, and lay encamped at the brazen balls or palaces, first
ambassadors came from them of Læssina: afterwards other cities that
were terrified with the Roman armies sent ambassadors for terms of
peace, promising to deliver up all their towns into the hands of the
Romans, to the number of sixty-seven: from all which places they
marched to Syracuse, to besiege Hiero, who, seeing the uneasiness
of the Syracusans at this preparation against them, sent ambassadors
to the consuls, to negotiate for peace; who readily agreed to the
conditions, designing chiefly the war against the Carthaginians. A
peace, therefore, was concluded for fourteen years, and the Romans
were to receive one hundred and forty thousand drachmast. And,
after he had released all the prisoners to them, they agreed that Sy-
racuse and all the cities under bis jurisdiction, viz. Acra, Leontium,
Megara, Ælora, Neatina, and Taurominium, should remain in the
hands of Hiero. In the mean time, Hannibal was come as far as
Xiphonia to the aid of the king; but, hearing what was done, be
marched back.
6. The Romans, after they had besieged the towns called Adrones
and Macella for a long time together, at length raised their sieges
without effecting any thing.
7. The Ægestines, who were the first brought under the power of
the Carthaginians, revolted to the Romans. The Alieneans did the
like. But they took Hilarius, Tyrittus, and Ascelum by force. The
Tyndaridæ, seeing themselves deserted, (through fear), designed to
deliver up themselves as the rest had done: but the Carthaginians,
suspecting their design, took the chiefest of the citizens for hostages,
and carried them, and the corn and wine, and all the rest of the pro-
visions that was in the town, to Lilybæum.
Philemon the comedian wrote ninety-seven comedies; he lived
ninety-nine years. The Romans that besieged Agrigentum, and that
made the trenches, and cast up the works, were one hundred thousand.
At length, after a stout resistance, the Carthaginians delivered up
Agrigentum to the Romans.
8. After the siege of Agrigentum, Hanno the elder brought over a
• Or Centuripians, their town called Centuripia. The peoplo now called
Centorluans.
+ A drachma is seven pence farthing.
.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
Ś 21
great army out of Africa into Sicily, of fifty thousand foot, and six
thousand horse, and sixty elephants. Philinus the historian, of Agri-
gentum; sets forth this expedition. Hanno with all these forces
marched from Lilybæum to Heraclea. About this time some came
and offered to deliver up Erbessus. Hanno, in prosecution of the
war, lost in two battles three thousand foot, and two hundred horse,
and four thousand that were taken prisoners.
In the mean
time, thirty of his elephants died, and three were wounded.
9. There was likewise the city Entella. -- Hanno there-
fore, by his prudent management, by one stratagem cut off both his
open and secret enemies at one time. And after they had lain thus
before it for the space of six months, Agrigentum was at length de-
livered up to them, and they carried away above twenty-four thousand
as slaves. But the Romans lost thirty thousand foot, and five hun-
dred and forty horse. But the Carthaginians fined Hando in six
thousand pieces of gold, and took away his commission, and sent
Amilcar general into Sicily, in his room. The Romans then besieged
Mystratus, and for that purpose devised many engines: but after se-
:
ven months time they raised their siege, with the loss of a great
number of their mev. But Amilcar tought with the Romans at
Thermæ, and routed them, killing six thousand tipon the place, and
it was not far from, but the whole army.
The castle Maza-
ron was likewise taken by the Romans. Then Camarina was be-
trayed into the hands of Amilcar the Carthaginian, and not long after
Enna in the same manner. There he walled in Drepanum*, and
made it a town of defence; and, after he had transplanted the in-
habitants of Eryx thither, he rázed the city to the ground, except
that part which surrounded the temple. But the Romans took My-
stratus, now besieged the third time, and levelled it to the ground,
and sold the inhabitants for slaves. The consul afterwards marched
to Camarina, and laid siege to it, but could not reduce it. But at
length, by the help of some engines of battery, and other instruments
of war, sent to him from Hiero, he won the place, and sold most of
the Camarineans for slaves. Presently after, he became master of
Eunia by treachery, where he put the garrison to the sword, save some
who made their escape out of the town, and fled to their confederates:
Thence he marched to Satana, and took it by storm. Then placing
garrisons in other cities, he made for Camicus, a castle belonging 10
the Agrigentines, which was also betrayed and delivered up to hint;
and there he placed a garrison. bout this time Erbessus was dea.
serted by its inhabitants.
But the river Alycus, and the last
of all the other.
• Drepanuio, upon the promontory Drepanum, dear Ergä.
Vol. 8. No: 46.
>
THE FRAGMENTS OF
10. A prudent man ought either to resolve to conquer, or else to
submit to those that are stronger than he.
11. All men in time of adversity are apt to be more religious, and
more frequent in devotion than at other times: but in times of pros-
perity and success, they make slight of the gods, as so many fables
and romances. And when they are again brought into troubles, then
they run again to their natural shelter.
12. It is much more easy to get the advantage of an enemy, when
a man will be advised, and be willing upon all occasions to rectify his
own mistakes. And it often happens that they who are carried away
to the same
Many are stirred up to virtue through the credit and reputation
which attend upon them, that employ themselves in good and com-
mendable studies and exercises.
For not being able to bear, as an over-heavy burthen, the successes
of fortune heaped upon him, he deprived himself of most of the glo-
ry of his actions, and involved his country in great calamities.
Moreover, when the Romans had transplanted a great
army into Africa, under the command of Attilius the consul, they
first prevailed over the Carthaginians, and took many of their towns
and castles, and destroyed great numbers of their soldiers: but as
soon as Xantippus the Spartan, whom they had hired to be their
general, came out of Greeee, the Carthaginians totally routed the
Romans, destroyed a numerous army. Afterward, they fought se-
.
veral battles by sea, wherein the Romans lost many ships, and a.
bundance of men, to the number of a hundred thousand.
The honour he had gained before, highly aggravated the disgrace
and contempt; and by his own example, he instructed others to be-
have humbly and modestly when they are in the greatest power and
authority. And that which stung him most, was, that he became the
scorn, and was brought into the power of those whom he had before
proudly trampled upon in disdain: and now he had deprived himself
of all pity and commiseration, commonly shown to men in misery
and distress.
For those that before were conquerors in all, he now altogether
conquered: and those who formerly, through the slaughter made
amongst them, expected nothing but utter destruction, now, by the
greatness of the victory by them on the other hand obtained, he in-
cited to slight and contemn their enemies.
For it is no
wonder if the prudence and experience of a general effect those
things which seem to others impossible: for all things are easy and
possible to ingenuity and diligence, supported by skill acquired by
DIODORUS SICULUS.
523
experience. -
For as the body is the servant of the soul,
so great armies are governed by the prudence of their generals.
The senate ordering all things for the public good. ---
Phi-
lustus then wrote his history.
But the Romans, who had then passed over into Africa, and fought
with the Carthaginians a battle at sea, and beaten them, and cap-
tured twenty-four of their ships, after they had taken on board those
Romans that were left of the land army, as they were sailing to Si-
cily, were all shipwrecked near Camarina, and lost three hundred
and forty men of war, besides vessels for transporting of horses, and
other transport-ships to the number of three hundred: so that
all the coast from Camarina to Pachinus, was strewed with the
carcasses of men and horses, and wrecks of ships. Hiero courteous-
ly entertained those that escaped, and supplying them with meat
and drink, clothes, and other necessaries, conveyed them safe to
Messana. Carthalo the Carthaginian, after the shipwreck of the
Romans besieged Agrigentum, took it and burnt the town, and de-
molished the walls; and those that were left fled to Olympius. The
Romans, after the shipwreck, fitted out another fleet, of two hundred
and fifty sail, and came to Cephalodis, which was delivered up to
them by treachery. Thence they marched to Drepanum, and laid
siege to it, but upon succours brought in by Carthalo, they drew off,
and sailed to Panormus. There they cast anchor in the harbour,
even under the walls, and landed their army, and then drew a wall
and trench round the city. And the country being very woody,
even up to the city gates, they had the advantage to raise mounds
and bulwarks all along from sea to sea.
Then the Romans, by continual assaults and batteries, beat down
the walls, and entering the outward forts, put many to the sword:
the rest fled to the old city, and sent out commissioners to the con-
sul to treat for the sparing of their lives. These conditions were
agreed upon_That every person who paid two minas for his head,
should be free. Hereupon the Romans entered, and forty thousand
were set free for the ransom agreed upon; the rest, to the number
of thirty thousand, were sold for slaves, together with the spoils.
But they of Jetæ drove out the Carthaginian garrison, and delivered
up the town to the Romans. So did the Selinuntines, Petrineans,
Enaterineans, and Tyndarida. Then the consuls leaving a garrison
at Panormus, marched off to Messana.
The year followiog, the Romans designed another descent into
Libya, but being prevented from landing by the Carthaginians, they
returned to Panormus. Thence, in their return to Rome, by ano-
824
THE FRAGMENTS OF
ther tempest they lost a hundred and fifty ships of war, besides trans-
port ships, with all their lading and provisions. About this time, the
governor of Thermæ being abroad about some necessary affairs, was
taken prisover by the Roman army: and during his confinement he
treated by messengers with the general, to open the gates of the ci-
ty to him in the night, if he might be released. The time was a-
greed upon, and he was ordered to be discharged; and a thousand
men were sevt thither in the night, who came there at the time ap-
pointed, whereupon he opened the gates, and the chiefest persons
of quality only entered, giving a strict charge to the guard, to shut
the gates and suffer no one else to enter; and this they did, that
pone but themselves might have the plunder and pillage of the city;
but they were all presently knocked on the head; a just reward for
their covetvusness! But at another time Thermæ and Lipara were
given up into the hands of the Romans. Yet they failed of their
purpose at the castle of Ercta, though they besieged it with forty.
thousand foot, and one thousand horse.
Asdrubal the Carthaginian general, being ill spoken of by his sol-
diers for not fighting, marched off with the whole army, and came to
Panormus, through the straits of Selinus, and passing over the river
near to the town, he encamped close to the walls without fortifying
himself, in contempt of the enemy. And now agian plenty of wine
.
being brought into the camp by the merchants, the Celtæ made
themselves drunk; and while they were roaring and carousing, and
filling every place with disorder and confusion, Cecilius the consul
broke in among them, and totally routed them, and sent sixty ele-
phants, then taken in the fight, to Rome, which were the admiration
of all the Romans,
BOOK XXIV.
THE Carthaginians, after they had razed the city of Selinus, trans-
planted the citizens to Lilybæum. But the Romans sailed with two
hundred and forty long gallies, and sixty round vessels, and all other
sorts of shipping, to Panormus, and thence to Lilybæum, which they
now began to besiege; and fortified themselves by a trench drawa
all along from sea to sea. Then they constructed engines to throw
stones, battering rams, and engines not only to batter, but to pluck
DIODORUS SICUIUS.
525
the stones by violence out of the walls, and all other things neces-
sary for the raising of mounds and bulwarks. Then they filled fif.
teen of their round vessels with stones, and sunk them in the mouth
of the harbour to choak it up. The Roman army amounted to the
number of a hundred and ten thousand men, of whom sixty thousand
foot and seven hundred horse were ordered to carry on the siege.
But four thousand men with corn and provisions, were sent from
Carthage to the besieged, which greatly encouraged them, and Atar-
bas* their governor. When the Romans understood that the city
had been relieved, they filled up the mouth of the harbour a second
time, and made a boom with anchors and great pieces of timber: but
the wind, which then blew high, and the violent surges of the sea,
broke it all in pieces. The Romans likewise made another engine
to cast mighty stones; but the Carthaginians raised another wall
within, and the Romans filled up the city-trench with earth, which
was sixty cubits broad, and forty deep. And while a skirmish was
fought on that side of the walls towards the sea, the Romans placed
an ambush on the other side, and the soldiers within making sallies
out of the town, to help them that were engaged at the sea side, those
that lay in ambush, having scaling ladders ready mounted, gained
the first wall; which being known, the Carthaginian commander fell
furiously upon them, and killed ten thousand of them on the spot,
and put the rest to flight, and burnt all the Roman engines, hattering
rams, instruments to cast stones, and all their works and fortifica-
tions. After this, the Carthaginians seeing that their horse were
of no use to them in the strait and narrow passages, sent them
away to Drepanum. Then presently came in strong recruits to the
Carthaginians; but the Romans, by the burning of their engines,
and through want of provisions, and the breaking out of the plague
amongst them, were reduced to great difficulties, (for only the Ro-
mans and their confederates eat flesh), and so great a distemper
seized them, that in a very few days ten thousand were cut off, so
that they were very desirous to break up the siege; but Hiero, king
of Syracuse, sent them a great quantity of corn, which again encoua
raged them to continue. After this the Romans chose another con-
sul, and gave the command of the army to Claudius the consul, the
son of Appius, who taking charge accordingly, stopped up the mouth
of the port as his predecessor had done, but the sea bore down
and cleared all away a second time. Moreover, Claudius thinking
himself able to do great things, equipped two huodred and ten of the
þest ships, and arriving at Drepanum, there engaged the Carthagi-
Adherbal.
526
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
nians in a sea fight, was beaten, and lost a hundred and seventeen of
his ships, and twenty thousand men. There never happened so
great a fight at sea, and so absolute a victory, either among the Car-
thaginians, or any others about these times; and that which was more
to be admired was _That though the Carthaginians were in so great
danger, and had only ninety sail, yet they lost not one man, and had
but a very few wounded.
With thirty sail, which intercepted the corn and pro-
visions belonging to the Romans, and carried it to Drepanum, and
taking thence every thing wbich remained that was useful, they came
to Lilylæum, and loaded the besieged with all kinds of provisions.
And now Carthalo the general came from Carthage with seventy long
ships or men of war, and as many laden with corn, who also set upon
the Romans, and sunk some of their vessels, and carried off four o-
thers which lay at anchor. But after he heard that the Roman fleet
had sailed from Syracuse, having called a council of war, he proceed-
ed against them with two hundred and twenty sail of the best ships
he had. When the fleets came in sight of each other, near the
coasts of Gela, the Romans, struck with a panic fear, tacked about
and fled to Phintia, deserting all their transport-ships laden with
provisions, and other vessels, behind them. But the Carthaginians,
making a swift pursuit after them, a fierce engagement took place;
in which the Carthaginians sunk fifty of their great men of war, and
sixty other long gallies, and disabled thirteen. After the fight, the
Carthaginians sailed to the river Alycus, and there took care of their
wounded men. In the mean time Junius the consul, not knowing
what was done, left Messana with thirty-six long gallies and many
ships of burden, and having passed Pachynus, and gained the port of
Phintia, upon intelligence of what had happened he was amazed;
and the Carthaginians making up upon him with their whole navy,
he burnt twelve of the most useless of his ships, and sailed with the
rest towards Syracuse, hoping to be succoured by Hiero. But near
Camarina a storm arose, which drove him upon the shallows and
socks, the winds being very fierce and boisterous. But the Cartha-
ginians having reached Pachynus, anchored in a safe and secure har-
bour. The Romans being thus distressed, lost all their transport-
ships of corn and provisions, and a hundred and five long gallies, so
that there were only two escaped ; and of those which were lost, most
of their men perished.
Junius, with those two, and the men which were preserved, came
to the camp at Lilybæum: he surprised Eryx in the night, and wall-
ed in Ægothalus, which is now called Acellus, and put in it a garrison
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
527
of eight hundred men. But when Carthalo had intelligence that the
places about Eryx were possessed by the enemy, he waſted thither
a considerable body of men in the night, and assaulted the garrison
of Ægothalus, and took the castle; some he put to the sword, and
the remainder Aled to Eryx, where was a garrison of three thousand
men. In the first sea-fight the Romans lost thirty-five thousand men,
and as many were taken prisoners.
In the territory of Catana there was a castle called Italium, which
was assaulted by Barcas the Carthaginian.
For the counsels and stratagems of the commanders,
being communicated to their friends, were discovered by some de-
serters to the enemy, which terrified the soldiers, and possessed them
with an expectation of some imminent danger. But Barcas arriving
there in the night, landed his men, and was the first that led them
to Eryx, (which was thirty stages distant), took the city, and put most
of them to the sword; and those who survived he removed to Dre-
panum.
Always, and in every concern, it is known by experience, that the
observance of good rule and order has produced many good and great
effects.
But Calatinus the consul sailed into Sicily with three hundred long
gallies, and other shipping, to the number of one thousand in the
whole, and anchored at the mart-town of the Eryxians. Hanno al-
so arrived in the sacred island from Carthage, with two hundred
and fifty long gallies, and other ships of burthen; and thence be
came to Eryx.
· The Romans fell on, and a sharp and obstinate engagement there
was on both sides, in which the Carthaginians lost a hundred and
seventeen ships, among which were twenty with all their men.
But the Romans
eighty; thirty for their own charge and
expense, and fifty to divide for spoil; and six thousand prisoners, as
Philinus reports, but according to others, four thousand and forty:
the rest of the fieet got safe with a fair wind into Carthage.
For valour signified nothing, when the fleet was so dispersed that it
had nobody to fly to, but was by the sea, as it were, delivered up in-
to the hands of the enemy. So that after the war had continued be-
tween the Romans and Carthaginians for the space of twenty-four
years, and Lilybæum had been besieged ten years, a peace was my-
tually concluded.
528
THE FRAGMENTS OF
BOOK XXV.
EPICURUS the philosopher, in his book called Maximus, says
“ That a religious life is void of all trouble and disturbance; but an
unrighteous one, nothing but trouble and sorrow." It contains
much matter in brief and concise sentences, tending greatly to the
reformation of the lives and manners of men: for injustice is
the greatest of all evils, involving not only private men, but, that
we may sum up all at once, nations, kings, and kingdoms, in most
miserable calamities. --- For the Spaniards gall them of the
Baleary islands, Africans, Carthaginians, and Ligurians, joined with
them of Carthage. And the slaves, whose parents were Grecians
on one side, who also rebelled..
Then it was perfectly
seen by experience, how far the diligence of an expert commander
excelled the blind and headstrong vulgar, and the rash and ig-
borant conduct of a rude common soldier.
So ex-
cellent a thing is modesty in commanding, that it enjoins nothing
beyond the power of men.
But after their departure out
of Sicily, the Carthaginian mercenaries rose up in arms against them
for these reasons.
They were unreasonable and excessive
in their demands for the horses and men which they had lost in Si-
cily.
And they were in war with one another four years
and as many months. But at length they were put to death by Bar-
cas the general, who had likewise performed notable services in Sicily
against the Romans.
2. But Amilear the Carthaginian general in a short time increas-
ed the bounds of his country; for he advanced with his fleet as far
as the pillars of Hercules and the Gades *. This city is a colony of
the Phenicians, lying on the farthest corner of the earth, on the sea-
side, and hath a haven. Having subdued the Iberians and the Tar-
tessians, with Istolotius, the general of the Celtæ, and his brother,
he put most of them to the sword, amongst whom were the two
brothers and several other honourable persons. And he received
into his own army three thousand of them that were prisoners.
But Endortes got again together fifty thousand men, but fled be-
fore he engaged, and betook himself to a high hill; where being beset
and blocked up by Amilcar, he decainped again in the night, and
most of his army were cut off. Endortes himself at length fell into
the hands of the enemy, and Amilcar put out his eyes, and then with
* Now Cadiz, or Cales, in the straits.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
529
9
many scofts and scorns crucified him. But he discharged about ten
Bụt
thousand other prisoners, and took many cities; some by fair pro-
mises and persuasions, and others by force.
Then Asdrubal, the son of Amilcar, being sent by his father-in-
law to Carthage against the Numidians, who had rebelled against the
Carthaginians, killed eight thousand, and took two thousand prison-
ers: the rest were subdued and brought under tribute. In the in-
terim, Amilcar having gained many cities in Spain, built a very large
town, which, from its situation, he called Acra Leuca. Having
afterwards besieged the city of Helice, he sent the greatest part of
his army and elephants into winter-quarters to the city he had late-
ly built, and continued with the rest at the siège. But Orissus the
king, under pretence of coming in as a friend to join Amilcat, suc-
coured the besieged, and forced Amilcar to raise the siege and fly.
His sons and friends he ordered, for their safety, to take one road by
themselves, and be himself took another; and being hotly pursued
by the king, in crossing a great river he was forced from his horse
by the violence of the stream, and was drowned. But Hannibal and
Asdrubal, his sons, got safe to Acra Leuca, or the white citadel.
- And though Amilcar died many ages before our time,
yet history has left an epitaph and commemoration of bis due praise.
But Asdrubal his son-in-law, so soon as he heard of his father-in-
Jaw's death, forthwith marched off, and came to Acra with upwards
of one hundred elephants. Being choseu general by the army, and
also by the Carthaginians, he picked out fifty thousand foot; of old
experienced soldiers, six thousand horse, and two hundred elephants.
In the first place, he ruined, and totally broke in pieces the troops
of king Orissus; then he put to the sword all that were the occasion
of Amilcar's flight, and got possession of twelve cities; and at length
all the cities of Spain. And having now celebrated a new marriage,
and taken the daughter of the king of Spain to wife, he was invested
with full power in the government, by all the Spaniards. He after-
wards built a city by the sea-shore, which be called Carthage; and
after this another, and aspired to exceed Amilcar in power and great-
ness. He had in his army sixty thousand foot, eight thousand horse,
and two hundred elephants. But at length he was assassinated by
one of his own household, having been general nine years.
3. The Celtæ and the Gauls entering into a war with the Romans,
raised an army of two hundred thousand men, and were victorious
in the first battle, and likewise in the second, wherein one of the
Roman consuls was killed. The Romans had an army of seventy
thousand foot, and seven thousand horse. However, although they
VOL: 2, No. 47.
YYY
530
THE FRAGMENTS OF
were worsted in the two first battles, yet in the third they gained a
signal victory, killing forty thousand upon the field of battle, and
taking the rest prisoners.
So that the greatest of their
kings cut his own throat: but the other was taken alive. After
this brave exploit, Æmilius being made consul, wasted the country
of the Gauls and Celtæ, took many cities and castles, and filled the
city of Rome with spoils.
4. Hiero, king of Syracuse, supplied the Romans with corn in the
Celtic war, and was paid at the conclusion of it.
5. The army being in want of a general after Asdrubal was slain,
the Carthaginians unanimously chose Hannibal, the eldest son of
Amilcar, to be their general,
While the city of Sagun-
tum was besieged by Hannibal, the citizens got together all the riches
in the temples, and all the silver and gold in the houses, nay, even
the very jewels in the women's ears, and laid them in a beap, and
melted them down, mixing brass and lead with the gold and silver,
to make them useless and of no value: and having so done, they all
valiantly made a sally, and fought it out to the last man; and after
having made a great slaughter of their enemies, were all killed
upon
the field. The mothers likewise first killed their own children, and
then stilled themselves by the smoke of furnaces. And thus Hanni-
bal gained the town without any benefit from the plunder: whom,
when the Romaus demanded to be brought to trial for his breach of
the league, and could not prevail, they began the war called the Han.
nibal war.
BOOK XXVI.
THERE never was any poet or historian, nor any learned man of
what science soever, that could please all their readers in every thing.
Neither can any thing that is mortal, though it attain its end and de-
sign, gain the general approbation of all, so as to be wholly free from
exception and censure. For neither Phidias, who was so admired
for his ivory images; nor Praxiteles, that excellent stone-cutter;
Tor Apelles or Parrhasius, who both attained to the highest pitch of
art and skill in limning and painting; could ever reach to that de-
gree of happiness, as to exbibit any piece of their several arts, that
was not in some respects capable of censure. For who was a more
DIODORUS SICULUS.
531
famous poet than Homer; or an orator than Demosthenes? Who
more just than Aristides and Solon? Yet joined as a flaw to all their
excellencies, there is an oration which carps at them, and makes
them as if they were all ignorant fellows. For indeed, being but
men, although they attained to eminent perfection in their several
accomplishments, yet through human frailty, they failed and erred
in many things. However, some men there are who disclose both
their envy and folly, who wilfully omit to give an account of what
is commendable and praise-worthy; but where they have any colour
to find fault, there they fix, and are unwilling ever to leave it, en-
deavouring, by blackening another, to set forth the more their own
supposed worth and excellence; not considering that every art and
peculiar accomplishment is more to be judged of by inquiry into the
thing itself, than by making conclusions from the partial and peev,
ish passion of another. But any candid person would duly appre-
ciate this industrious folly of detraction, whereby an individual, by
aspersing another, in fact lessens his own reputation.
There are some things which, by a certain destructive tendency, are
naturally hurtful, as frost and snow, which destroy and blast the
fairest and most pleasant fruits; and the resplendent whiteness of
the snow so dazzles the eyes, that it almost deprives them of their
sight: and so some men, who have neither wit nor will to do any
thing that is commendable themselves, yet have malice and folly e-
nough to judge and condemn the actions of others. But it is the
part of a prudent and understanding man, always to attribute due
praise to those who by their industry have prosecuted virtuous de-
signs: and where any have not been so successful as they wished,
not to taunt at the infirmity of human nature. But enough of these
envious men.
2. For as a brave champion, after he has spent much time in
anointing himself, at length descends into the lists. ---- Hava
ing gained great experience and a habit.
3. Menodotus the Corinthian wrote the affairs of Greece in four.
teen books. And Sosilus the Ilian* wrote the acts of Hannibal in
şeyen,
4. Among the Romans a legion consisted of five thousand men,
5. Men naturally flock to those who are in prosperity, but domi-
neer over those who are brought into distress,
For the
soul presently to undergo a mere contrary change, which is in its
own nature unchangeable,
6. The city of Rhodes being ruined by a great earthquake, Hiera
• A people in the island of Corcyra, or Corfino
532
THE FRAGMENTS OF
the Syracusan bestowed six talents of silver towards the repairing of
the walls, and silver cauldrons of great value, besides money; and
let them have corn free from duty.
7. That which is now called Philopolis, was heretofore called Phi-
otis of Thebes, over all Thessaly.
8. For soft beds, constant delicate fare, and the use of all sorts of
precious ointments, unfitted them for toil and hardship,
For both their bodies and minds were habituated to effeminacy and
luxury. - For men naturally cannot well brook toil and pains,
and low diet; but delight in idleness and luxury. For Hannibal
with much toil and care gained cities both from the Romans and
Bratians, and took Crotona, and besieged Rhegium. For, from the
Pillars of Hercules in the west, to Crotona, hc over-ran all the Roz
man territories.
-
THE FRAGMENTS
OF
DIODORUS SICULUS,
OUT OF
THE BIBLIOTHECA OF PHOTIUS.
1
535
DIODORUS SICULUS.
.
FRAGMENTS.
BOOK XXXI.
WHILE these things were doing, ambassadors came to Rome from
Rhodes, to beg pardon for what they had done. For in the war with
Perseus they seemed to favour the king, and to break their league
with the Romans. But not being able to accomplish any thing for
which they were sent, they were greatly dejected, and solicited with
tears the great and principal men of the city. Whereupon, being in-
troduced into the senate by Antonius, one of the tribunes of the peo-
ple, Philophron was the first that opened the matter and business of
their embassy: and after him Astimedes. When they had made
many arguments and apt discourses to prevail with the senate, and
at last, according to the proverb*, had with the swan concluded
their mournful ditty, they received such an answer as presently dis-
pelled their fears: however, they were sharply reproved and fined
for their offences. So that it is evident how the most noble among
the Romans, by whom the greatest affairs are managed, strive which
shall be most generous, and on that account gain most honour and
reputation: fur in the administration of public affairs elsewhere,
one envies another. But the Romans praise and commend one ano-
ther. So that while all endeavour to advance the public good, great
and glorious things are achieved: but as to others, while they aim on-
ly at their own vain glory, and envy the successes of each other,
they ruin their country.
2. At length Æmilius took Perseus, the last king of Macedonia,
who had often leagued with the Romans, and as often appeared in
the field with great armies against them. And after the victory Æ-
milius triumphed gloriously. And though Perseus was brought into
so great miseries and calamities, that the ruins and destructions
which he suffered can scarcely be paralleled by any romance, yet he
was not willing to part with life: for before the senate had deter-
mincd any thing relating to his punishment, one of the chief officers
Sung the swan song
$36
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
a
a
а
of the city* cast both him and his children into the gaol Albinus.
This prison is a deep dungeon of the bigness of a chamber, capable
of only holding nine beds at the most; dark, and full of all sorts of
filth and nastiness, by reason of the multitude of men condemned for
capital offences who from time to time were thrust down there; and
in general most of such malefactors were put into this place. So that
many being shut up together in so small a place, those miserable
creatures were even turned into beasts : and in regard the meat,
drink, and other necessaries that were brought them, were jumbled
together in one chaos and heap of confusion, there arose thence
such a stench, that none who approached were able to endure it. In
a most miserable condition Perseus continued here for the space of
seven days, insomuch that he begged relief, and some share of the
food of those strangers in prison, who had only a stinted allowance.
They out of compassion to this miserable man, with great humanity
and tears in their eyes, gave him part of the small pittance they had, and
withal offered him a sword and a rope, to use which of them he would
at his pleasure; for patting a period to his existence. Yet nothing
seems so sweet as life, even to the miserable; for though they suffer
what is equivalent to death itself in the mean time. To conclude,
he had certainly ended his days in this extreme misery; if Marcus
Æmilius, president of the court, out of respect to the dignity of his
person, moved by the natural and innate humanity of the Romans,
had not with some indignation moved the senate in his behalf, put-
ting them in mind, that though they feared not men, yet they should
bear some awe and reverence to Nemesis *, who will take vengeance
on them that use their power with pride and insolence. Upon this
he was committed to a more moderate confinement, and while he
was consoling himself with fresh hopes, lie ended his days agreeably
to the former misfortunes of his life: for after he had lived two years
in this fond love of life, having displeased his barbarous keepers,
they would not suffer him to sleep, and so he died.
3. The kings of Cappadocia say that they sprung from Cyrus,
king of Persia. They ailirm likewise, that they are descended from
one of those seven Persians that killed Magus. And they draw
down their pedigree from Cyrus thus:-_That Atossa was the sister
of Cambyses, and daughter of Cyrus; that Gallus was the son of
Atossa and Pharnaces, king of Cappadocia, Smerdis the son of Gal-
lus, and Artanes the son of Smerdis, and Artanes the issue of Ana-
phas, a brave and valiant man, who was the father of one of the se-
ven Persians. In this manner, therefore, do they make out their
consanguinity both to Cyrus and Anaphus, who it is said was of so
* The Goddess of Revenge.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
557
stout a spirit*, that before he would pay tribute to the Persians, he
abdicated his government of Cappadocia. After his death, Anaphas,
his son, reigned in his stead; who dying, left two sons, Ditamus and
Arimpeus, of whom Ditamus took upon him the government, a war-
like prince, and in all respects accomplished for the kingdom; who
joining iu battle with the Persians, and conducting himself with great
gallantry and resolution, was killed in the fight; and his son Ariam-
nes succeeded him in the kingdom. He had two sons, Ariarathes
and Holophernes: he died after he had reigned fifty years, having
done nothing memorable; and the elder of his sons, Ariarathes, suc-
ceeded him, who it is said bore so great and tender a love to his bro-
ther, that he advanced him to the highest degree of honour and pre-
ferment. And he sent him to join the Persians in the war against
the Egyptians, who afterwards returned laden with many and large
marks of honour conferred upon him by Ochus, for his valour, and
died in his own country, leaving behind him two sons, Ariarathes
and Arysses. And that his brother, the king of Cappadocia, having no
legal issue, adopted Ariarathes, his brother's eldest son. About this
time Alexander the Macedonian king ruined the Persiau empire, and
presently afterwards died. But Perdiccas, who had the chief com-
mand, sent Eumenes as general into Cappadocia, who subdued and
killed Ariarathes, and brought Cappadocia, with all the bordering
territories into the power of the Macedonians. But Ariarathes, the
adopted son of the former king, despairing for the present to regain
the kingdom, fed into Armenia with a few followers. But both Eu-
menes and Perdiccas not long after dying, and Antigonus and Se-
leucus embroiled in a war, Ariarathes, with the help of Arcloathus,
king of Armenia, who furnished bim with forces, routed and killed
Amyotas, the Macedonian general, and presently drove all the Ma-
cedonians out of the country, and recovered his kingdom. He had
three sons, the eldest of whom, Ariamnes, succeeded him; who join-
ed in affivity with Antiochus Theos, and married his eldest son Aria
arathes to Stratonice, Antiochus's daughter. And for the great love
he had to him above all his children, he set the diadem upon his
headl, and made him co-partner with him in the kingdom: and after
the death of his father he reigned alone. Then he dying, his son
Ariarathes, of a very tender age, succeeded. - He married Antio-
chide, the daughter of Antiochus the Great, a very subtile woman:
who, because she bore no children, to make up that defect, contrived,
unknown to her husband, a supposititious birth, as if she had born
two sons, which were called Ariarathes and Holophernes.
But not
long after, she conceived in reality, and unexpectedly was delivered
* Others say, it should be eowardice.
Vol. 2. No, 47.
a
ZZZ
538
THE FRAGMENTS OF
of two daughters and a son called Mithridates. Upon this she ac-
quainted her husband with the imposture, and so wrought upon him,
that she prevailed with him to send away the eldest of the two sons,
with a small sum of money to Rome, and the other into Ionia, lest
they should challenge the kingdom from him that was lawful heir to
the crown, who after he came to man's estate, it is said, was called
Ariarathes, and was educated in all the learning of Greece, and was
a person accomplished in all manner of virtuous endowments. That
the father, who was wonderfully beloved by the son, strove all he
could to repay his son's love; and their mutual endeared affections
one towards another went so far, that the father would have given up
the whole kingdom into the hands of the son, but the son on the o-
ther hand told him, he could not possibly accept so great an advan-
tage from living parents. Therefore, after his father died, he suc-
ceeded, spending the rest of his life very virtuously, and in the stu-
dy of philosophy: so that Cappadocia, which was before but little
known to the Grecians, was now a desirable place of residence for
all learned men. He renewed the league of peace and friendship
with the Romans. And in this manner is the pedigree of those who
have hitherto reigned in Cappadocia, brought down from Cyrus.
4. For statues are erected to such Romans as are of noble families,
in near resemblance of the persons, and according to the whole pro-
portion of their bodies. For all their life long, they have some who
observe their mien and deportment, and the special remarks of every
part exactly. Likewise every man's ancestor stands in that habit,
and in those ornaments, and is so clearly represented, that every one
knows the person as soon as he looks at him, and to what degree of
honour every oue was advanced, and what share and interest they had
in the commonwealth.
5. Memmius * was sent general with the army into Spain. But
the Lusitanians, (now Portuguese), just upon his landing, fell upur
him and routed him, and cut off most of his army. When this sục-
cess of the Iberians was noised abroad, the Araucians, who looked
upon themselves to be far better soldiers than the Iberians, slighted
and contemned the enemy; and upon this ground and confidence
chiefly it was that in their general council they determined to make
war on the Romans.
• Rather Fulvius,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
539
-BOOK XXXII.
a
a
1. ALEXANDER fled out of the fight with five hundred men to a
city in Arabia, called Abas, to Diocles the prince there, with whom
he had before intrusted his son Antiochus, a child of very tender age.
Afterwards the chief commanders who were about Heliades, and had
been with Alexander, plotting to assassinate Alexander, sent off some
messengers privately among themselves, promising secretly to mur-
der him. Demetrius consenting to what they proposed, they became
both traitors and murderers of their prince. We might be justly
condemned if we should pass in silence that which happened before
the death of Alexander, although, from the strangeness of the thing,
it is almost incredible. King Alexander, a little before these times,
consulted with the oracle in Cilicia, where they say is the temple of
Apollo of Sarpedon: and it is reported that the oracle made answer,
_That he should take heed of that place which should bring forth a
god of two shapes. This divine hint was then taken for a riddle:
but after the king was dead, the truth was discovered in this man-
ner. Far in Abas, a city in Arabia, dwelt one Diophantus a Maces
donian. This man married an Arabian woman, by whom he had a
son called after his own name, and a daughter called Heraides: bis
son died when he was young; but he gave a portion to his daughter
when she was grown up, and married her to one Semiades, who, af-
ter he had lived with his bride one year, undertook a long journey.
In the mean time, it is reported, that Heraides fell into a strange and
wonderful distemper, such as is scarcely credible. For she had a a
vehement inflammation, and a great swelling at the bottom of her
belly, which increased to that degree, that it brought her into a vio-
lent fever. The physicians conceived it was an ulcer about the neck
of the matrix: refrigerating medicines and plaisters were therefore
applied, to bring down and cool those hot burning tumours. Upon
the seventh day the humour burst, and out started from the privy
parts of Heraides, a man's yard with the testicles complete. This
happened when neither physician nor any other stranger was pre.
sent, but only the mother and two servants; who with the strange-
ness of the thing, were struck with amazement. However, they
,
made it their business to cure her, and kept all secret to themselves,
And when she was recovered, she still wore a woman's habit, and
managed the affairs of the house as usual. But those who were pri-
vy to what had happened, suspected her to be a hermaphrodite. And
540
THE FRAGMENTS OF
o_
so, although formerly in carnal embraces with her husband, there
might be no natural copulation, yet she had been seen frequently
to have carval knowledge of women. In the mean time, while all
things were kept secret, Semiades returns and demands his wife, as
was very fit and reasonable. And being continually urgent for the
society of his wife, the father refused, and yet was ashamed to de-
clare the reason; which occasioned great dissension, so much so, that
the husband resolved to sue the father for his wife: so that this won-
der was exposed to public view, like a play upon the stage, by means
of a criminal accusation. The person contended for was present in
court when the matter was debated on behalf of each party: con-
cerning which the judges were in doubt whether the power and au-
thority of the husband over the wife, or that of the father over the
daughter, should be preferred. At length, when they were ready to
give sentence that the wife should abide with her hushand, she laid
open the truth of the whole matter, and with great boldness and as,
surance of mind threw off her feigned habit, and discovered herself
to be a man to all that were there present, and in a surly manner ut-
tered these words: Can any compel one man to marry another?
Upon which all were amazed, and set up a shout of admiratiou at the
strangeness of the thing. Heraides being now discovered, after-
wards, as is reported, changed her woman's attire, and put on the
habit of a young man.
And it is likewise said, that the physicians,
when they saw those parts of the woman, judged that the nature of
the male lay hid in the womb of the female, in a place of the shape
of an egg; and that in the thin scarf or skin that wrapped about
the yard was an unusual hole through which the urine passed. And
therefore they declared, that the place first being pierced and made
like a bullow pipe, should be turned into a green wound, and at
length brought to a scab; and when the yard was reduced to its pro-
per shape, that suitable remedies should be applied for the cure of
the patient. Heraides was afterwards called Diophantus, and served
in the king's camp in a regiment of horse, and then resided with the
king at Abas. At that time, therefore, when the king came to Abas,
where this hermaphrodite was born, was the meaning of the oracle
understood, wi ch had been dark and obscure before. It is reported
that Semiades at length, through the love he bore to her, upon ac-
count of their former fainiliarity, and through shame of bis unnatu-
ral marriage, was no longer able to bear up, but after he had left all
bis goods to Diophantus, and made him his heir, he broke his heart
avd died. So she that had been a woman, assumed the courage of
a man; and he that was ever a man, appeared to be more pusilani:
mous tha i a woman.
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
541
The like to this fell out about thirty years after, in the city of Epi-
daurus*. There was a young maid in Epidaurus, (as the report
goes), an orphan, whose name was Callo. This maid had no passage
in her privy parts; but about the pecten there was a place like an
issue, through which the urine passed ever from the time of her birth.
When she came to a mature age, she was married to one of the citi-
zens, with whom she lived two years, and, though she was not capa-
ble of natural embraces as a woman, yet she was forced to endure
those that were preternatural, or beside nature. But afterwards a
tumour arose near the pecten, which put her to exceeding torment,
so that many physicians were sent for to consult together, and all
despaired of curing her; but an apothecary undertook the cure, and
made an incision in the place, whence came forth a man's yard with
testicles, but solid, without any passage. And when all were amazed
at the strangeness of the thing, the apothecary supplied the parts with
what was deficient. First he made an incision into the end of the
yard, and pierced it even to the uretor, and, thrusting down a small
silver instrument, brought away the urine, and other excrementitious
humours; but the place where the issue was he first turned into a
green wound, and then healed it up. Having performed this extra-
ordinary cure, he demanded a double reward: for he said he had una
dertaken to cure a sick woman, and had now set right a young man.
Callo hereupon laid aside her wheel, and other effeminate employ-
ments, and took upon her the name of Callon, adding only the last
letter N to her former name. Some say, that before her transforma-'
tion she was the priestess of Ceres, and because she shewed to men
those things that were not to be seen, this judgment fell upon her for
her prophaneness. They report that at Naples and several other
places the like hath happened: not that the two sexes of man and
woman are really formed by nature in two several shapes, (for that is
impossible), but that nature is deceived in fashioning the members
of the body, to the amazement and deceit of -- the beholders.
We have therefore judged these strange events, which are brought
down to us both by writings and traditions, worthy to be taken notice
of, in respect both of their pleasure and profit to the readers: for
many, looking upon such things as these as monsters in nature, are
thereby infected with a kind of superstition; not only private men,
but whole cities and nations. For it is reported, that a little before
the beginning of the Marsian war, there dwelt an Italian near Rome,
who, having married such a one as is before described, complained
to the senate; upon which they, out of a fond superstition, and per-
suaded thereunto by the Tuscan augurs, ordered the hermaphrodite
• lo Peloponnesus.
a
542
THE FRAGMENTS OF
to be burnt. And thus (they say) this poor creature was most un-
justly doomed to destruction, and was ignorantly judged a monster,
because she had some resemblance of both sexes. And not long
after there happened the like at Athens; where, the thing not being
understood, they say the man was burnt alive. Some there are who
tell idle stories how that there are Hyæne, (for so they call such as
are both men and women) who have carnal copulation one with ano-
ther, according to each sex, by turns every other year; when in truth
there is no such thing. For although both sexes have a peculiar
and distinct nature, without participation one with another, yet by a
false formation the inconsiderate spectator may be imposed upon:
for to the female (which is naturally such) is joined something like
unto a man's yard, and so, on the other hand, to the natural male
something like to the privy parts of a woman. The same reason
holds in all kind of living creatures, there being many and various sorts
of prodigious births; but such as never receive any nourishment, nor
can ever come to any perfection. But what hath been said may suf-
fice for the reforming this superstition.
2. They say that the walls of Carthage were forty cubits high, and
twenty-two broad, but though they were so, yet the Roman valour
and engines were too strong for all their defences and fortifications,
for the city was taken and razed to the ground.
3. Manasses (called Masinissa by the Latins) who reigned in
Africa, and was always a friend to the Romans, lived ninety years in
strength and firm health, and left ten sons behind him when he died,
whom he committed to the care and guardianship of the Romans.
He was of a strong body, and from a child inured to hardship: in
whatever business he was engaged he would keep close to it all the day
immoveable; he would never rise from his seat till night, spending
the whole day in laborious projects and contrivances. When he was
once on horseback he would ride continually night and day, and ne-
ver be weary. A great instance of the health and strength of his
body, was, that when he was almost ninety years of age, he had a
son but four years old, yet of a very strong body. He was so extra-
ordinarily given to husbandry, that he left to every one of his sous
ten thousand plethras of land, adorned with all manner of delight-
ful improvements, and instruments necessary for that purpose. He
reigned with great commendation sixty years.
4. Nicomedes after he had routed his father Prusias, and forced
him to fly to the temple of Jupiter for shelter, there killed him, and
by that wicked and bloody murder got possession of the kingdom of
Bythinia.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
543
5. The Lusitanians at first not having an expert general, were
easily vanquished by the Romans; but after Viriathus became their
general, they did them much mischief. He was of them that inha-
bited the sea-coasts, a shepherd upon the mountains from his child-
hood; by nature of a healthful constitution, in strength and agility
of body far exceeding all the Iberians: for he had inured himself to
a sparing diet, much labour and toil, and to no more sleep than was
absolutely necessary. He likewise continually carried iron weapons,
and was famous for his conflicts both with wild beasts and robbers,
and at length was made general; upon which a whole drove of thieves
and rogues on the sudden flocked about him. Being very successful
in many battles, he was not ouly admired for his other excellencies,
but likewise for his military conduct. Besides, in distribution of
the spoils he was very just, alloting to every man proportionably to
his merits and deserts. Still proceeding and prospering he approved
himself to be a prince, rather than a thief and a robber. He fought
several battles with the Romans and came off conqueror, insomuch
as he routed Vitellius the Roman general, broke his army and took
him prisoner, and then put him to death. And many other brave
exploits he performed, till Fabius was appointed to go out as gene-
ral against him, and from that time he began to decline. But not
long after rallying his men, and bravely managing the matter against
Fabius, he forced him to terms dishonourable to the Roman name.
But Cæpio who was afterwards general against Viriathus, slighted
all the former conditions as of no effect, and often routed Viriathus,
whom (now being reduced to those straits, as that he sued for terms
of peace) he caused to be treacherously assassinated by some of his
own servauts: and striking a terror into Tantalus his successor, and
all his army, he imposed what terms and conditions he pleased upon
them, and in the conclusion gave them the city and land about for
their habitation,
BOOK XXXIV.
1. KING Antiochus* besieged Jerusalem, But the Jews stood it
out for some time: but when all their provision was spent, they
were forced to send ambassadors to him, to treat upon terms. Many
of his friends persuaded him to storm the city, and to root out the
Sidcles.
544
THE FRAGMENTS OF
whole nation of the Jews; For that they only of all people, hated
to converse with any of other nations, and treated them all as ene-
mies: and they suggested to him that their ancestors were driven out
of Egypt, as impious and hateful to the gods: for their bodies being
overspread, and infected with the itch and leprosy, (by way of expi-
ation) they got them together, and as profane and wicked wretches,
expelled them out of their coasts: and that those who were thus ex-
pelled, seated themselves about Jerusalem, and being after embo-
died into one nation (called the nation of the Jews) their hatred of
all other men descended with their blood to posterity. And there-
fore they made strange laws, and quite different from other people:
never will eat nor drink with any of other nations, or wish them any
prosperity. For said they, Antiochus surnamed Epiphanes having
subdued the Jews, entered into the temple of God, into which
none was to enter by their law but the priest; in which when he
found the image of a man with a long beard, carved in stone sitting
upon an ass, he took it to be Moses who built Jerusalem, and set-
tled the nation, and established by law all their wicked customs and
practices, abounding in hatred and enmity to all other men. Anti-
ochus therefore abhorring this their contrariety to all other people,
used his utmost endeavour to abrogate their laws. To that end he
sacrificed a great swine at the image of Moses, and at the altar of
God that stood in the outward court, and sprinkled them with the
blood of the sacrifice. He commanded likewise that the sacred
books, whereby they were taught to hate all other nations, should
be bespriokled with the broth made of the swine's flesh: And he put
out the lamp (called by them immortal) which was ever burning
in the temple. Lastly he forced the high priest and the other Jews
to eat swine's flesh. When Antiochus's friends had debated and con-
sidered of these things, they were very earnest with him to root out
the whole nation, or at least that he would abrogate their laws, and
compel them to change their former manner of living and conversa-
tion. But the king being of a generous spirit, and mild disposition
received hostages and pardoned the Jews: but demolished the walls
of Jerusalem, and took the tribute that was due.
2. The affairs of Sicily after the overthrow of_Carthage_-
baving continued successful and prosperous for the space of sixty
years; at length broke out the servile war upon the following occa-
sions. The Sicilians (through the enjoyment of a long peace) being
grown very rich, brought up abundance of slaves; who being dri-
ven in droves like so many herds of cattle from the several places
where they were bred and brought up, were stigmatized with certain
marks burnt in their bodies: those that were young, they used for
DIODORUS SICULUS.
545
shepherds, others for such services as they had occasion. But their
masters were very rigid and severe with them, and took no care to
provide either necessary food or raiment for them, insomuch as that
most of them were forced to rob and steal, to get necessaries : so
that all places were full of slaughters and murders, as if an army of
thieves and robbers had been dispersed all over the island. The go-
vernors of the provinces (to say the truth) did what they could to
suppress them: but because they durst not punish them, in regard
to their masters, who had the sole command and power over their
servants, were rich, and men in authority, every governor in bis se-
veral province was forced to connive at the thefts and rapines that
were committed. For many of the masters being Roman knights,
and judges of the accusations (brought before the prætors) were a
terror to the governors themselves. The slaves therefore being in
this distress, and vilely beaten and scourged beyond all reason, were
now resolved not to bear any longer. Therefore meeting together
from time to time as they had opportunity, they consulted how to
free themselves from the yoke of servitude they lay under, till at
length they really executed what they had before agreed upon. There
was a Syrian a servant of Antigenes of Enna, born in the city of
Apanea a magician and conjuror: he pretended to tell future events,
(or fortunes), discovered to him, as he said by the gods in his
dreams, and imposed upon many by this kind of practice. Then he
proceeded further, and not only foretold things to come, revealed to
him in dreams, but pretended that he saw the gods when he was
awake, and they declared to him what was to come to pass. And
though he thus juggled, and played the fool, yet by chance many
things afterwards proved true. And whereas those things which ne-
ver happened, were by none censured, but those which did come to
pass were every where applauded, he grew more and more into es-
teem. At length by some trick of art or other, he would breath
flames of fire out of his mouth as from a burning lamp, and so
would prophecy as though he had been at that time inspired by Apol-
lo. For he put fire with some combustible matter to feed it, into a
nut-shell or some such thing bored through on both sides, then put-
ting it into his mouth, and forcing his breath upon it there would is-
sue out both sparks and Aames of fire. Before the defection this
juggler boasted that the goddess Syria bad appeared to him, and
told him that he should reign, and this he declared not only to others
but often to his own master. The thing being become a common
jest and subject of laughter, Antigenes was so taken with this jest,
and ridiculous conceit of the man, that he took Eunus, (for so he was
Vou 2. No. 47.
AAAA
5.16
THE FRAGMENTS OF
called), with him to feasts and repasts, and several questions being
put to him concerning the kingdom, be was asked how he would
deal with every one that was there present at the table: he readily
went on with his story, and told them that he would be very kind to
his masters, and like a conjuror using many monstrous magical
terms, and expressions, he set all the guests a laughing, upon which
some of them as a reward gave him large messes from the table, de-
siring himn to remember their kindness when he came to his kingdom:
but all this jesting came at length really to end in the advancing of
him to the kingdom; and all those who at the feasts by way of ridi-
cule had heen kind to him, be rewarded in earnest.
But the beginning of the defection was in this manner. There
was one Damophilus of Enna, a man by reason of his wealth, of a
great spirit, but of a proud and haughty disposition. This man
above all measure was cruel and severe to his servants; and his wife
Megallis strove to exceed her husband in all kind of cruelty and in-
humanity towards the slaves. Upon this, they that had been thus
cruelly used, were enraged like wild beasts, and plotted together to
rise in arms and cut the throats of their masters. To this end they
applied themselves to Eunus, and desired to know of him whether
the Gods would succeed them in their design. He encouraging
them declared that they should prosper in what they had in hand,
using, (according to his former manner), conjuring words and ex-
pressions, and charging them to be speedy in their execution.
Whereupon they forthwith raised a body of four hundred slaves, and
upon the first opportunity, on a sudden broke in armed into the
city Enna, led by their captain Eunus, by his juggling tricks, fla-
ming out fire at his mouth. Then entering the houses, they made so
great a slaughter, as that they spared not even the suckling children,
but plucked them violently from their mother's breasts and dashed
them against the ground: it cannot be expressed how vilely and fil-
thily, (for the satisfying of their lusts), they used men's wives in the
very presence of their husbands. With these villains joined a mul-
titude of slaves that were in the city, and first executed their rage
and cruelty upon their masters, and then fell a murdering others.
In the mean time Eunus heard that Damophilus and his wife were
in some orc ards near the city, he sent therefore some of his rabble
thither, who brought them with their hands tied behind their backs,
loading them, as they passed along with scoffs and scorns; only
they declared that they would be kind in every respect to his daugh-
ter, for her pity and compassion towards the servants, and her rea-
diness always to be helpful to them. They that were sent for Damos
DIODORUS SICULUS
547
philus and Megallis his wife to the city, brought them into the the-
atre, whither all the rabble that made a defection focked. There
Damophilus pleading earnestly for his life, and moving many with
what he said, Hermias and Zexis loaded him with many bitter ac-
cusations, and called him a cheat and dissembler; and not waiting
what would be determined by the people concerning him, the one
ran him through with a sword, and the other cut off his head with
an axe. Then they made Eunus king, not for his valour or skill in
martial affairs, but upon the account of bis extraordinary juggling,
and that he was the head and author of the defection, and for that
his name seemed to portend and to be a good omen, that he would
be kind* to his subjects. Being therefore made general, (with ab-
solute power), to order and dispose of all things as he pleased, an
assembly was called, and he put all the prisoners to death except
such as were skilful in making of arms, whom he forthwith set on
work; as for Megallis he delivered her up to the will of the women
slaves, to take their revenge of her as they thought fit: who after
they had whipped and tormented her, threw her down a steep preci-
pice. And Eunus himself killed his own master Antigenes and Py-
tho. At lengih putting the crown upon his head, and graced with
all the ensigns of royalty, he caused his wife, (who was a Syrian,
and of the same city) to be owned as queen, and chose such as he
judged to be most prudent to be of his privy council. Amongst
wliom was one Achæus by name, and an Achæan by nation, a wise
man and a good soldier: having therefore got together in the space
of three days above six thousand men, armed with what they could
by any ways or means lay their hands upon, and being joined with
others, who were all furnished either with axes, hatches, slings,
bills, or stakes sharpened and burnt at one end, or with spits, he
ravaged and made spoil all over the country. And being at length
joined with an infinite number of slaves, they grew to that height
and boldness as to engage in a war with the Roman generals: and
often in several battles got the victory, by overpowering them with
number; baving now with him above ten thousand men.
In the mean time, one Cleon a Cilician was the author of another
defection of the slaves, and now all were in hopes that this unruly
rabble would fall together by the ears one with another, and so Sicily
would be rid of them through the mutual slaughters and destructions
amongst themselves. But contrary to all men's hopes and expecta-
tions, they joined forces together; and Cleon was observant in every
thing to the commands of Eunus, and served general under him as
* Eunus, signifying in Greek, kind,
a
548
THE FRAGMENTS OF
his prince, having five thousand men of his own soldiers. Thirty
days were now expired since the first beginning of this rebellion :
and presently after a battle was fought with Lucius Hypsius, (who
coming from Rome commanded eight thousand Sicilians), in which
fight the rebels got the day, who were then twenty thousand, and in
a very short time after, their army increased to two hundred thousand
men. And although they fought with the Romans themselves, yet
they often came off conquerors, and were very seldom beaten. This
being noised abroad, a defection began at Rome by one hundred and
fifty slaves, who conspired against the government; the like in At-
tica by one thousand; the like at Delos, and many other places. But
those in the several places who had intrusted their concerns in their
hands, to prevent the mischief from going further, made a quick des-
patch, and fell upon them on the sudden, and put them all to death,
and so those that remained and were ready to break out into rebel-
lion, were reduced to more sound and sober thoughts.
But in Sicily the disorders more and more increased: for cities
were taken, and their inhabitants made slaves, and many armies
were cut off by the rebels, until such time as Rupilius the Roman
general recovered Taurominium, after the besieged had been reduced
to that extremity of famine, (hy a sharp and close siege), as that
they began to eat their own children, and the men their wives; and
at length ljutchered one another for food. There he took Comanus
the brother of Cleon, who was endeavouring to escape out of the
city while it was besieged. At last Sarapion a Syrian, having be-
.
trayed the citadel, all the fugitives fell into his hands, whom having
first scourged, he afterwards crucified. Thence he marched to Enna,
and by a long siege reduced them into such straits, as that there
was no hope left to escape. Afterwards having slain Cleon their
general, (who had made a sally from the city and fought like a hero),
he exposed his body to open view; and not long after this city like-
wise was betrayed into his hands, which otherwise could never have
been taken by force, by reason of the natural strength of the place.
And as for Eunus, he like a coward Aed with six hundred of his
guards to the tops of certain bigh rocks, where those that were with
him, (foreseeing their inevitable ruin, for Rupilius pursued them
close), cut one another's throats. But Eunus the juggling king,
out of fear, bid himself in some caves, he had found out for that
purpose; whence he was plucked out with four others of his gang,
,
viz. his cook, his barber, he that rubbed him in the bath, and he
that in the midst of his cups was his jester. To couclude he was
thrown into the gaol, and there eaten up of lice, and so ended his
days at Morgantium* by a death worthy the former wickedness of his
In Sicily
DIODORUS SICULUS.
549
life. Rupilius afterwards with a small body of men, marching all
over Sicily, presently cleared the country of thieves and robbers.
This Eunus king of the robbers called bimself Antiochus, and all
his followers Syrians.
BOOK XXXVI.
ABOUT the time that Marius in a great battle routed Bocchus and
Jugurtha, the African kings, and slew many thousands of the Afri-
cans, and afterwards took Jugurtha himself, (delivered up to him by
Bocchus, to gain favour and pardon from the Romans for his making
war upon them), the Romans themselves were in great perplexity,
by reason of the many losses they had sustained by the Cimbrians,
who then ravaged and harassed all the country of Gaul*. And in
further aggravation of what they suffered, at the very same time came
some out of Sicily, who gave an account of many thousand slaves
that were there risen up in arms. Whereupon the whole Roman
commonwealth was in such straits, that they knew not which way to
turn themselves, having lost sixty thousand men in Gaul, in the war
against the Cimbrians, and they had not then soldiers sufficient for a
new expedition. And besides, (wefore the rebellion of the slaves in
Sicily), there were defections that disturbed - - the state in
Italy: but they were short and inconsiderable, as if God had ap-
pointed these for omens and presages of the great rebellion in Sicily.
The first rising was at Nusiæriat, where thirty servants entered into
a conspiracy, but they were presentiy executed. The second was at
Capua where two hundred were got up in arms, but they were in a
short time suppressed. The third happened after a strange manner,
which was thus, there was one Titus Minutius a Roman knight, who
had a very rich man for his father, he chanced to fall in love with
another man's servant who was very beautiful, and having enjoyed
her, he was the more wonderfully inflamed, and even to madness, in-
somuch as he would needs buy her of her master; who being with much
ado prevailed with to part with her, the lover at length bought her
for seven Atticſ talents, and limited a certain time for the payment
a
* Now France.
1 In Campania in Italy nine milos from the sca,
# 13091, 10s, sterling,
a
550
THE FRAGMENTS OF
of the money, to which time the greatness of his father's estate pro-
cured him credit: but now, when the day of payment was come, he
had not the money then ready, but prayed forbearance for thirty days
longer. That time being run up, the creditor then demanded his
money, but the lover knew not how to perform his word, and yet his
love continued still as hot as ever. At length a wicked design came
into his head, which induced him to lay a trap for them that de-
manded the money, and to that end to take upon him the state and
dignity of a monarch. To which purpose he bought five hundred
arms of all sorts, and appointed a day for payment; and being trusted,
withdrawing himself privately into a certain field, he stirred up bis
own slaves to a defection, to the number of four hundred; and, put-
ting on the diadem and purple, and assuming all the other hadges
and ensigns of royalty, declared himself king, the deliverer of the
slaves. In the first place he caused all those who demanded the mo-
ney he had given for the young woman to be scourged, and then cut
off their heads. Then he entered the next towns with his armed
slaves, and those that came readily to join with him he furnished with
arms, and killed all that opposed him. Having in a short time got
a
together above seven hundred, he divided them into companies*; and
then fortifying and intrenching himself, he received all the slaves
that ran away from their masters. The rebellion being noised at
Rome, the senate (by the help of prudent advice) put a stop to the
mischief, and happily suppressed it.
The care and management of the business for the reducing and
punishing of the fugitive slaves was committed to Lucius Lucullus,
who was the only general that was then in the city, wlio raised six
hundred men in Rome, and with them the same day marched to Ca-
pua, where he listed four thousand foot, and four hundred horse.
When Minutius heard with what speed Lucullus was making towards
him, he possessed himself of a strong hill, having with him three
thousand five hundred men. In the first engagement the fugitives,
by the advantage of the higher ground, got the better: afterwards
Lucullus bribed Apollonius, Minutius's general, to betray his confe-
derates, withal promising him, upon the security of the public faith,
that he should have his pardou: whereupon he began the work, and,
seizing Minutius, he (to avoid the punishment he feared for his re-
bellion) ran himself through the body; the rest were all presently cut
off, except Apollonius. And these were prologues to that great de-
fection in Sicily, whose beginning was thus occasioned. In the ex-
pedition of Barius against the Cimbrians, the senate had given a
• A company consisted of one hundred men, of which the captain was
called a centurion,
a
.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
551
a
commission to raise men out of the countries beyond the seas: tQ
which end Marius sent ambassadors to Nicomedes, king of Bithynia,
to help him with some men; but he returned answer, that most of
the Bithynians were violently taken away for slaves by the publicans,
and were dispersed here and there through the provinces. Upon
which the senate decreed _That no freeman belonging to any of the
Roman allies should in any province be forced to be servants or
slaves, and that the pro-consuls should take care to see them all set
free. In pursuance of this order Licinius Nerva, then prætor in Si-
.
cily, (having first consulted with the judges), manumitted so many
that in a few days above eight hundred were set at liberty; so that all
the slaves in Sicily were hereby presently encouraged, and grew high-
crested, in hopes of liberty. The magistrates therefore addressed
themselves to the prætor, or pro-consul, and desired him to forbear
making any more free. Hereupon he (whether bribed, or to gain
favour) laid aside the former determination of the judges, and witha
checks and foul words sent them that came to him to be made free
back to their masters. Upon this the servants entered into a con-
spiracy; and, after they came from Syracuse, and were got together
at the grove of Palicum, they consulted concerning their intended
rebellion. This boldness of the slaves began to make a noise in many
places of the island. Amongst others, thirty servants of two rich
brothers in the country of the Anycillians were the first that appeared
for their liberty, whose leader was one Varius. These in the first
place killed their masters, when they were asleep in their beds: then
they went away to the next towns, and stirred up all the servants
and slaves there to appear for the gaining of their liberty, of whom
came in flocking to them in that one night to the number of one
hundred and twenty, and upwards. Upon this they possessed them-
selves of a place naturally strong of itself, which they endeavoured
to make stronger by art and labour, where eighty more well armed
came in to them. Licinius Nerva hastened out against them, with
a design to put a stop to their ravages, but all his labour was in vain.
Seeing therefore that the place was not to be taken by force, he
sought how to gain it by treachery: for he had private correspond-
ence with one Caius Titinius, surnamed Gadæus, whoin he wrought
upon to be the instrument of accomplishing his design, promising
him safety and protection. This man had been condemned to die
two years before, but had made an escape, and had robbed and mur-'
dered many freemen in that province, but never in the least injured
any servant. Titinius, with a great body of slaves, came to this fort,
where the rebels had posted themselves, as if he designed to join with
them in making war upon the Romans;, who being willingly and
552
THE FRAGMENTS OF
kindly received by them, and for his valour made their general, he at
length betrayed the fort; upon which some of the rebels were
killed in fight, and the rest, out of fear of what they should suffer if
they were taken prisoners, threr themselves down headlong from the
top of the rock. And in this manner was the first rising of the slaves
suppressed.
But the soldiers had no sooner got to their quarters, than news
was brought that about eighty slaves had caused a tumult to be raised,
and had cut the throat of Publius Clonius, a Roman knight, and that
now their number was much increased. And to aggravate the mat-
ter, the prætor, being ill advised, had disbanded most of his army,
by reason whereof he was so slow, that he gave time to the rebels
the more to strengthen themselves. However, he marched out a-
gainst them with those he then had. As soon as he passed the river
Alba, he turned aside from the fugitives, who were then lodged upon
Mount Caprianus, and arrived at Heraclea. Upon this, a report be-
ing spread of the cowardice of the general, as if he durst not attack
them, very many slaves were encouraged to join in the defection.
Many therefore flocking in, (furnishing themselves as well as they
could for a battle), there were above eight hundred in seven days
time that took up arms: and presently after they amounted to two
thousand. But the general at Heraclea, being informed that their
number was increasing, sent Marcus Titivius as chief commander
against them, inforcing him with six hundred men out of the forts at
Enna. This Titinius fought the rebels, who (having the advantage
.
both of place and number) routed him, and killed many of his men,
and the rest threw away their arms, and with much difficulty saved
themselves by flight. By this means the runagades on a sudden got
such a great number of arms, that they were more firmly resolved to
persist in their rebellion, so that now most of the slaves were in
arms. The defection every day increasing, the number amounted in
a short time to such a height as none ever suspected it could, inso-
much that within a few days they were above six thousand; who,
having now called a council of war, and debated on matters in refer-
ence to the management of affairs, in the first place they chose a king
called Salvius, a fortune-teller, and one who in the women's sports
and shews, with his pipes, acted the part of a fool and madman. But
having now gained a kingdom, he waved living in cities, as being
the nurseries of sloth and effeminacy. Afterwards, he divided the
army into three bodies, over each of which he appointed a captain,
and ordered them to make inroads up and down in the country, and
at a certain time and place all to join again in one body. By these
depredations they were so stocked with horses and other cattle, the
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
553
in a short time they had above two thousand horse, and no less than
twenty thousand foot, but men very raw and ignorant in martial af-
fairs. Among other attempts, they fell upon Morgantium with great
fury, (which was a strong and well-fortified city), and made many
fierce and continual assaults upon it.
The Roman general marching out in the night, as if he would re-
lieve the city, (having with him about ten thousand men out of Italy
and Sicily), surprised the rebels (busily employed in the siege) on a
sudden; and, breaking into their camp, found a very slender guard,
but a great number of prisoners, and abundance of plunder of all
sorts, and with great ease made himself master of all; and, wher, he
had rifled the camp, he marched away towards Morgantium: but the
rebels turning back upon him with great fury, and having the advan-
tage of the higher ground, soon routed him, and put all his army to
flight. Whereupon the rebel king commanded proclamation to be
made. That none should be killed who threw
away
their
arms: up-
on which most cast them away, and fled. By this means Salvius
both recovered what he had lost in his camp, and gained a glorious
victory, and much spoil; but there were not killed of the Italians and
Sicilians above six hundred, (which was occasioned by the moderation
of the king), but four thousand were taken prisoners. Upon this
victory, many coming in flocking to Salvius, his army became double
to what it was before, and he was now absolute master of the field,
so that he again sat down before Morgantium, and proclaimed liberty
to all the servants that were there. But their masters promising the
same to them, if they would be faithful, and join with them in the
defence of the place, they chose rather to accept of what was offered
by their masters, and fought with that resolution, that they forced the
enemy to raise their siege. But the general afterwards, making void
all that was promised (as to manumitting of the servants) occasioned
many to run away to the rebels. After this, all the slaves and ser-
vants in the territories of Ægesta and Lilybæum were likewise infected
with this desire of rebellion, whose leader was one Athenion, a valiant
man, and a Cilician. This man, having the charge and management
of the concerns of two rich brothers, and being an excellent astro-
loger, first wrought upon those to join with him over whom he
had some sort of command, to the number of two hundred: after-
wards those that were bordering round about, so that in five days
time there were got together above one thousand, who made him
king, and placed the diadem upon bis head. This man resolved to
order matters and affairs so as never any did before bim: for he re-
ceived not all promiscuously that came in to him, but only such as
were of strong and healthful bodies, to bear arms; the rest he forced
Vol. 2. No. 47
BBBB
554
THE FRAGMENTS OF
to continue in the stations they were in, and every one in his place
diligently to apply himself to the duty incumbent upon him: by
which means those that were with him had plenty of provisions.-
He pretended, that by the stars the gods foretold That he should
gain the whole kingdom of Sicily; and therefore he was to refrain
from spoiling the country, or destroying the cattle and fruits of the
earth, as being all his own. At length, having now got together above
ten thousand men, he was so daring as to besiege Lilybæum, a city
from its strength looked upon to be impregnable. But finding it a
vain thing to proceed, he desisted from liis design, pretending he
did it by command from the gods, by whom he was told_That if
they continued the siege, they would certainly fall into some sud-
den misfortune.
Accordingly, while he was preparing to draw off from the city, a
fleet of Moors entered the harbour, who had been sent to the assist-
ance of them of Lilybæum, under the command of one Gomon, who
in the night surprising Athenion's army, now leaving the siege and
marching off, killed a great number of them and wounded as many,
and so got into the town. This was the occasion that his former
prediction was highly admired and cried up by the rebels.
At the same time great disorders, and all sorts of calamities, over-
spread Sicily. For not only servants, but freemen that were reduced
to poverty, committed all sorts of rapine and acts of wickedness:
for they shamefully killed all before them, whether bond or free,
that none might be left to tell tales; so that those who were in the
cities scarcely enjoyed any thing that was their own, though it were
with them within the walls: But as for that which was without, all
was swallowed up and violently seized upon, as prey taken from a
common enemy. Many other things against the laws of humanity
were impudently committed by many persons throughout the whole
of Sicily.
Salvius likewise, who had besieged Morgantium, after he bad
harassed all the country, as far as the territories of Leontium, there
mustered his army, consisting of above thirty thousand fighting men.
Then sacrificing to the heroes of Italy, he dedicated one of his royal
robes, in gratitude for his victories. And now he caused himself to
be proclaimed king, and was called by the rebels Tryphon*: having
a desigo to possess himself of Tricala, and there to build a palace,
he sent to Athenion, and asking commanded him as general to repair
to him. Every man then thought that Athenion would endeavour to
gain the sovereignty for himself, and by that means the rebels would
• Or Trophon, rather an antient soothsayer, who lived in a cave, into which whos
soever descended, he dever laughed afterwards.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
555
men,
be divided, and so a speedy period would be put to the war. But
fortune so ordered the matter, that the armies of the fugitives being
thus increased, the two generals were unanimous, and agreed very
well together. For Tryphon marched speedily with his army to Tri-
cala, and Athenion came thither to him with three thousand in
every thing observing the commands of Tryphon as king. Athenion
had sent the rest abroad to harass and spoil the country, and to bring
over as many as they could to join with them in the defection. But
not long after, Tryphon suspected that Athenion had a design to sup,
plant him, and therefore he caused him to be seized in time. The
castle, which was well fortified before, he made still more strong, and
adorned it likewise with many stately buildings. After which, they
say, it was called Tricala, because it was remarkable and famous for
three things First, for springs of excellent sweet water; secondly,
for vineyards, and olive plantations, and rich lands for tillage; and
thirdly, that it was a place impregnable, built upon a high and inac-
cessible rock. After he had drawn a line of eight stages round about
it, for the building of a city, and had encompassed it with a deep
trench, he made it the seat-royal, being a place abounding in plenty
and fatness of all things necessary for the life of man. He likewise
built there a stately palace and a market-place, capable of receiving
a vast number of men. He chose likewise a competent number of
the most prudent men to be of his council, and made use of them
for the administration of justice. Moreover, whenever he sat in the
courts of justice himself, he put on a long gown* edged with purple,
and a coatt studded with large spots of purple. Lastly, he appointed
lictors with rods and axes to go before him, and took great care that
all other ensigns and badges of royalty should be observed.
At length, Lucius Licinius' Lucullus was chosen general by the
senate of Rome, to go against the rebels, who had with bim fourteen
thousand Romans and Italians, eighteen thousand Bithynians, Thes,
salians and Acarnanians; and six hundred out of Lucania, under the
command of Cleptius, an expert and valiant soldier; and also six
hundred from other places; in the whole amounting to seventeen
thousand. With this army he entered Sicily: whereupon Tryphon
released Athenion, and advised with him how to manage the war a-
gainst the Romans. Tryphon was of opinion, that it was the safest
way to continue at Tricala, and there expect the enemy; but Athe,
nion advised rather to draw out and fight in the field, than to suffer
themselves to be besieged; whose counsel prevailing, they marched
• The Roman toga pratexta, which was white,
The coat was the Roman tunic, embroidered with large studs of gold or purple,
called nails; and the whole garment was called Tunica laticlavia,
556
THE FRAGMENTS OF
out and encamped near Scirthæa, with no fewer than forty thousand
men, twelve furlongs distant from the Roman camp. At first the
armies employed themselves every day in light skirmishes; but at
length they engaged, and while victory seemed to incline sometimes
on one side, and sometimes on the other, and many fell on both
sides, Athenion came on with two hundred choice horse, and covered
the ground round about him with the bodies of his enemies. But
being wounded in both knees, and then receiving a third, he was
totally unable to fight, wbich so discouraged the rebels, that they
fled outright. Athenion lay concealed, as if he were dead, and so
feigned himself till night çame on, and then stole away. The Ro-
mans having now gained a glorious victory, forced Tryphon himself
to take to his heels, and in the pursuit killed at least twenty thou-
sand men. The rest, by the advantage of the night, got to Tricala,
though the general might easily have cut them all off, if he would
have continued the pursuit. Upon this róut they were so much dis-
couraged, that it was proposed amongst them that they should re-
turn to their masters, and submit themselves wholly to their power
and pleasure: but those who advised to stand it out to the last, and
'not to give up their lives to the lusts of their enemies, prevailed over
the other.
Nine days after, the Roman general besieged Tricalạ; but after
several slaughters on both sides, he was obliged to draw off and
leave the place. Upon this the rebels recovered their spirits, and the
general on the other hand, either through sloth and negligence, or
corrupted by bribes, neglected entirely the proper discharge of his
duty, for which afterwards he gave an account to the Romans. Nei-
ther did Caius Servilius, who succeeded Lucullus, do any thing
worth remembering; and therefore he was brought to judgment, as
Lucullus was before, and banished. In the mean time Tryphon
died, and Athenion enjoyed the kingdom. And what with taking of
cities, and wasting and spoiling the country, without controul or any
opposition from Servilius, he got together a great deal of rich booty
and plunder. But the year after, Caius Marius being chosen at
Rome the fifth time consul, and with him Caius Aquilius*, Aquie
lius was made general against the rebels; and his valour so far ad-
vanced his success, that he wholly overthrew them in a great battle;
and, like a heroe, fought hand to hand with Athenion the king of the
rebels, and killed him, but was himself wounded on the head. And
now he resolved to prosecute the war against the remainder of them,
who were about ten thousand; and though they fled to their defences,
not being able to stand against him, yet Aquilius slackened not his
* Marcus Aquilius,
>
DIODORUS SICULUS.
$87
resolution in the least, hut pursued his design till he had wholly
broken them. There remained now only a thousand, led by Satyrus,
whom at first he determined to reduce by force; but when they
made their submission by their commissioners, for the present be
remitted their faults; but when they were brought prisoners to
Rome, he ordered them to fight with wild beasts, where it is report-
ed they ended their lives with great gallantry and nobleness of mind;
for they scorned to fight with beasts, but thrust one another through
at the public altars: and after they were all dead, Satyrus being the
last, with a heroic spirit killed himself. And this was the tragical
end of the servants' war, after it had continued for the space of al.
most four years.
FROM THE SAME.
ONE Battaces, a priest of the goddess Rhea, they say, came to Rome
from Pessinus, a city of Phrygia; who declared he came thither by
command of the goddess. He told the magistrates and senate, that
their temple was prophaned, and that a public expiation ought to be
made in the name of the Romans. His habit and other ornaments
of his body were very strange, and altogether unusual at Rome; for
he bore a crown or mitre of a vast bigness, and a flowered gown
embroidered with gold, representing the state and dignity of a king.
After he had spoken to the people from the bench, and instructed
them in matters of religion, he was honoured with public entertain-
ments, and large gifts and presents: but he was forbid to wear a
crown by Aulus Pompeius, a tribune of the people. However, be-
ing brought by another tribune to the desk, and being asked how the
expiatory sacrifices should be made, his answers were stuffed with
nothing but superstitious rites and ceremonies. At length things
were so managed that he was driven out by Pompeius's faction, with
many scorns and scoffs: upon which he went to his inn, and never
after appeared abroad: but only told them that he was disgraced, and
that the goddess was reproached and dishonoured. Presently after
Pompeius fell into a high fever, and then had a quinsey*, which took
away his speech, and he died the third day. Upon which it was the
general discourse and opinion among the common people, that he
was thus punished by a divine hand, for his profane and impious
Cynanchino morbo; or, a dog's disease,
558
THE FRAGMENTS OF
abuse of the goddess and her priest. For the Romans are addicted
to superstition more than any other pation. And therefore Battaces
being honoured with many presents, and liberty granted to him to
wear his sacred vestments, with all their ornaments, the day he de-
signed for his departure, he was conducted by multitudes, both men
and women, out of the city,
FROM THE SAME.
IT was a custom among the Roman soldiers_That if any comman-
der of an army fought a battle and killed above six thousand of the
enemy, he was termed emperor, which is the same with king among
the Grecians.
BOOK XXXVII.
THE Marsian war took its name from the authors of the defection,
though the Italians generally made this war upon the Romans. It
is said, the first occasion of this arose from the profuseness and lux-
ory the Romans were fallen into, who were formerly frugal and spar-
ing in their way of living. This alteration caused great heart-burn-
ings between the commonalty and the senate: for when the senate
prevailed with the Italians to supply the city with provisions, and
upon their frequent addresses had promised to enfranchise them, and
make them free citizens of Rome, and to ratify it by a law, and the
Italians saw nothing performed that was promised, these were
the sparks which at length broke forth into a flame at the time when
Lucius Marcius Philippus, and Sextus Julius *, were consuls, in the
hundred and seventeenth olympiad.
Many were the slaughters, sieges, and sacking of towns on both
sides, during this war, victory hovering sometimes here and some-
times there, as uncertain where to fall, giving no assurance to either
party which of them she favoured. But at length, after the shed-
ding of much blood, the Romans with much ado got the better, and
* Julius Cæsar, Gr. 17014 Olymp. Others say 172d.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
659
regained their former power and sovereignty. There were engaged
against them in this war the Samnites, Asculans, Lucanians, Pice-
nians, them of Nola*, and other cities and nations: amongst which
was Corfiniumt, a large and famous city, greatly frequented, in
which the Italians had a little before planted a colony. Here were
all things necessary for the support and defence of so great a city,
and the maintenance of the government; particularly a large market-
place and court-bouse, with a vast treasure, and a plentiful stock of
provisions of all sorts. They had likewise a senate consisting of
five hundred members; out of wbich were chosen those reputed fit
to execute the highest places in the magistracy, and to manage the
weighty affairs of the commonwealth. These therefore they in-
trusted with the management of the war, and put the absolute power
of disposing of all their concerns into the bands of the senators, who
made a law that two consuls should be chosen every year, and twelve
generals. At which time Quintus Pompædius Silo, a Marsian, (a
person of the highest quality in his country), and Caius Aponius
Motulus, famous for his noble acts above the rest of his own nation,
were chosen consuls. They divided all Italy into two parts, and
took each an equal share for the executing of their consular autho-
rity. They allotted the region or tract from the Cercoli (so called)
to the Adriatic sea, which lies to the north and west, to Pompedius
and six of the generals. The rest, which lay to the south and east,
the Italians assigned to Motulus, with as many more of the military
officers. Having put all things into this good order, and, to sum
up all, having ordered all things according to the antient model of
the Roman government, they set themselves more intently and ear-
nestly to the prosecuting of the war, and called the city itself Italy.
And they were so successful, that they for the most part came off
conquerors, till Cneius Pompeius was made consul and general,
who with Sylla, deputed by Cato the other consul, often routed
them, and reduced them to those straits, that at length their power
was broken in pieces. However, they still continued the war, but
were often worsted by Caius Cossius general in Japygia I. Being
therefore distressed and harassed with so many and great mischiefs,
one upon the back of another, and the Marsians and other nations
falling to the Romans, they forsook their new city, and transplanted
themselves to Æsernia, a city of the Samnites, under the conduct
of five generals; of whom they made Quintus Pompadius the chief,
This town is still in being, situated about fourteen miles from Naples.
1 Corfinium, in Italy; a city of the Peligni, it is now called Pienza, and is under the
Duke of Flurence.
An isthmus in Italy, called Ca'abrid.
560
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
for his valour and prudent management of the war; who with the
consent of all the other captains, raised a great army, which with
the old soldiers amounted to the number of thirty thousand. And
besides, he got together at least twenty thousand foot, and one thou-
sand horse, of manumitted slaves, and armed them as well as the
time would allow. And coming to an engagement with the Romans,
whose general was Mamercus, he killed a few of them, but lost up-
wards of six thousand of his own men.
About the same time Metellus took the famous city of Venusia
in Apulia, which had in it a great number of soldiers, and carried
away above three thousand prisoners. And now the Romans pre-
vailed every day more and more against their enemies: so that the
Italians sent ambassadors to Mithridates king of Pontus, who had
then an excellent and well appointed army, to entreat him to march
into Italy, with his army, to oppose the Romans; by which means,
they told him, that their power would be easily broken. Mithrida-
tes answered, that he would march into Italy as soon as he had sub-
dued Asia, in order to which he was then engaged. The rebels be-
ing therefore now frustrated in their hopes of assistance, and of sup-
plies of money, were greatly disheartened: for there were but a few
of the Samnites remaining; and the Sabelli kept themselves close
within Nola, as did also Lamponius and Cleptius, who commanded
what were left of the Lucanians.
The Marsian war being now almost at an end, there arose again
a great seditiom in Rome, by reason of the contentious ambition of
many of the Roman nobility, every one striving which should be ge-
neral in the expedition against Mithridates, impelled thereto by the
greatness of the rewards and riches to be reaped in that war. For
Caius Julius, and Caius Marius, who had been six times consul, op-
posed each other; and the people on that occasion were divided,
some for the one and some for the other. There were likewise other
disturbances about the same time: for Sylla the consul went from
Rome to the forces which lay near to Nola, and so terrified many of
the neighbouring territories and cities, that he forced them to the
obedience of the Romans. But when Sylla was engaged in the war
in Asia against Mithridates, and Rome was filled with slaughters and
intestine broils, Marcus Lamponius and Tiberius Cleptius, generals
of those Italians who were left remaining in Brutia, not being able
to take the strong city of Æsias, after a long time they had laio be-
fore it, left part of their army to niaintain the siege, and fiercely as-
saulted Rhegium, in the expectation, that if they gained this place,
they might with ease transport their army into Sicily, and so become
masters of the richest island under the sun. But Caius Urbanus,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
561
the governor of Rhegium, so terrified the Italians with the greatness
of his army, and his vast preparations, that they drew off from
the siege; and so the Rhegians were delivered. And afterwards,
when the civil wars broke forth between Marius and Sylla, part of
them sided with Marius, and the rest with Sylla; and most of them
were killed in the war; and all those who survived, joined the con-
queror Sylla. And thus ended the Marsian war, and the greatest
home-bred sedition that had ever before occurred among the Ro-
mans.
2. And now that the Marsian war was at an end, a second great
sedition was raised in Rome; stirred up by Sylla and Caius Marius,
a young man, the son of Marius who had been seven times consul.
In this commotion many thousands of men perished: at length
Sylla prevailed; and being created Dictator, he called himself E-
paphroditus*; which vain-glorious title did not altogether deceive
him, for he prospered all his life long, and died a natural denth after
all his victories. But Marius, although he behaved with great
gallantry in the war against Sylla, being at length routed, fed with
fifteen thousand men to Præneste, where he was besieged a long
time: at length, being totally deserted, and seeing no way of es-
cape, he earnestly entreated one of his faithful servants to afford
him his helping hand to extricate him from the present dangers and
mischiefs thai surrounded bim. After much persuasion, the ser-
vant at one stroke put an end to his master's life, and then imme-
diately killed himself. And so at length ended this civil war.
However, some relics of it still gave Sylla disturbance for soine
time, till those who joined in it, with some others, were suppressed.
But after these were all ruined and destroyed, there broke out
such a flame of discord between Julius Cæsar and Pompey, who for
the great and eminent services he had done the Romans, partly by the
conduct of Sylla, and partly by his own valour, was sirnamed the
Great, that the Romans were again involved in intestine slaughters
and butcheries. And as soon as Pompey had lost all his army in a
great battle, he himself was afterwards murdered near Alexandria.
And the unbounded power of the consuls, being at length restrained
and limited, fell wholly into the hands of Cæsar himself; and thus
ended the sedition.
But after Cæsar's murder, another civil war broke forth against
Brutus and Cassius, his murderers, which was managed by the con-
suls Lepidus Antonius, and Octavius Augustus. When this war
was ended by dint of the sword, and Cassius and Brutus being dead,
not long after the secret and private grudges and quarrels between
* Which signifies beautiful.
VOL. 2. No: 476
CCCC
562
THE FRAGMENTS OF
Augustus and Antony, for the supreme power, broke out into open
war: and after much blood spilt on both sides, Augustus gained the
empire, which he hield during his life, having now waved his consu-
har power and dignity.
FROM THE SAME.
>
CINNA and Marius *, calling together a council of the principal
officers, consulted what ways and methods were best to be taken for
the better settling and confirming the peace. At length they re-
solved to put to death the greatest persons of quality that were ini-
mical to them, and who were most capable of making a disturbance
and of overturning all their affairs; so that the factious party being
purged out from among them, they and their friends might govern
for the future with more security, according to their own will and
pleasure. Hereupon all regard to former leagues and articles was
wholly laid aside: persons were proscribed and butchered in every
place, without being heard. At that time Quintus Luctatius Catulus
,
who had had a glorious triumph for his victory over the Cimbri +
and had more than an ordinary share in the affections of the people,
was accused by a tribune of the people for a capital offence, who
fearing the imminent hazard of the calumny, made his application
to Marius, to entreat him to interpose for his deliverance, (for he had
been his friend formerly, but through some suspicion he then enter-
tained of him, he was become his enemy); but he answered him
Die you must. Upon this Catulus, perceiving there was no hopes
of his preservation, studied how to die without disgrace; to which
end he destroyed himself by a strange and unusual way: for he shut
himself up in a house newly plaistered, and caused a fire to be kindled,
by the smoke of which, and the moist vapours from the lime, he was
there stifled to death.
a
This was long before in time, and therefore comes in here with relation to some other
watter before related, but now lost; for this sedition was in tho 173d Olymp.
+ Dancs
DIODORUS SICULUS.
563
BOOK XL,
The great-
WE being about to write of the war against the Jews, we esteem it
a part of our province, before we proceed further, in the first place
briefly to relate the origin of this nation, and their laws. In antient
times there happened a great plague in Egypt, and many ascribed
the cause of it to God, who was offended with them. For there be-
ing multitudes of strangers of several nations who inhabited there,
who made use of their foreign rites and ceremonies in the adminis-
tration of public sacrifices, the antient manner of worshipping the
gods, practised by the ancestors of the Egyptians, was quite lost and
forgotten. Hence it was that the natural inhabitants concluded,
that unless all the strangers were driven out, they should never be
freed from their miseries. Upon which they were all expelled, and
the most valiant and noble among them, under the conduct of skil-
ful commanders, as some relate, after many great hardships, came
into Greece and other places, of whom, amongst other leaders, the
most famous and remarkable were Danaus and Cadinus.
est part of the people went into the country now called Judea, not
far from Egypt, and at that time altogether desert and uninhabited.
The leader of this colony was one Moses, a very wise and valiant
man, who, after he had possessed himself of the country, amongst
other cities, built that now most famous city, Jerusalem, and the
Temple there, which is so greatly reverenced among them. He
then instituted the manner of God's worship, and the holy rites and
ceremonies; and made laws for the government of the common-
wealth, and reduced them into methodical order. He also divided
the people into twelve tribes, as the most perfect number, as he
conceived; because of answering the twelve months, which make
up the whole year. But he made no representation or image of the
gods, because he judged nothing of a human shape was applicable
to God: but that the heaven, which compasses the earth around, was
the only God, and that all things were in its power, But he so or-
dered the rites and ceremonies of the sacrifices, and the manner and
rule of their conversations as that they should be wholly different
from all other nations: for, by reason of the expulsion of his people,
he commanded a most inhuman and upsociable conversation. He
picked out likewise the greatest persons of quality, who were best
able to rule and govern the people, (then embodied into one nation),
and them he created priests; whose duty and ofțice was continually
564
THE FRAGMENTS OF
to attend in the temple, and employ themselves in the public wor-
ship and service of God. He likewise constituted them judges, for
the decision of the most weighty causes, and committed to their care
the keeping and preservation of the laws. Therefore they say that
the Jews never had any king; but that the care and authority of go-
verning the people was always submitted to him, who excelled the
rest of the priests in prudence and virtue, whom they call the chief
priest; and him they always supposed to be the messenger and in-
terpreter of the mind and commands of God to them. And they
say that he, in all their public assemblies and other meetings, de-
clares what he has in command; and for that reason the Jews are so
observant, that forthwith they prostrate themselves upon the ground,
and adore him as the high priest, and interpreter to them of the o-
racles of god. But in the conclusion of the laws this is subjoined
“ Moses, the Messenger* of God, thus saith to the Jews.” This
lawgiver likewise laid down many excellent rules and instructions
for martial affairs, and inured the youth to hardships and difficulties,
and to exercise patience in all miseries and distresses. Moreover,
be undertook many wars against the neighbouring nations, and gain-
ed many large territories by force of arms, and gave them as an in-
heritance to his countrymen, in such manner as that every one shared
alike, saving the priests, who had a larger portion than the rest, that
having more, they might continually attend upon the public worship
of God without interruption. Neither was it lawful for any man to
sell his inheritance allotted to him, lest, by the covetousness of those
that buy, others should become poor, and so the nation become de-
populated. He ordered likewise the inhabitants to be careful in the
education of their children, who are brought up with very little cost
or charge; and by that means the Jewish nation was always popu-
lous.
As to their marriages and funerals, he appointed them laws much
different from all other people. But under the empires which have
risen up in these later ages, especially in the fourth monarchy of the
Persians, and in the time of the Macedonian empire, which over-
turned the former, through a mixture with foreign nations, many of
the antient laws among the Jews have been changed and become
pbsolete.
* Or, who heard these things from God.
THE FRAGMENTS
OF
DIODORUS SICULUS,
.
AS
PUBLISHED BY HENRY VALESÏUS.
2
567
DIODORUS SICULUS.
FRAGMENTS.
TO THE READER.
THESE fragments of Diodorus Siculus, were first collected by Con-
stantine the seventh, one of the eastern Emperors, the son of Leo
the sixth. He began to reign about the year of our Lord 911.-
He got together from all parts, books of all sorts of learning, in or-
der to make up a complete library. Out of the several authors, he
collected such observations as were most remarkable, and marshalled
such of them as concerned one and the same subject, under their
several distinct heads. The heads or common places of his histori-
cal collections were fifty-three in number; and made up a hundred
and six volumes. For he divided each head into two books; in the
first of which was contained what was said of that particular subject
by the most antient authors, or such as wrote universal histories from
the beginning of time. In the second are collections out of those
authors who wrote of the acts and affairs past, in the time of the
Cæsars. That common place wherein are these fragments of Dio-
dorus, is one of the fifty-three, intituled thus _Of Virtues and Vices.
It was brought out of Cyprus to Paris by Nicholas Fabricius, not
long before the fragments were published by Valesius, as appears in
his epistle to Fabricius, as well as in that to the reader. The rest
of the fifty-three heads of this emperor are lost, save only one, inti-
tuled thus Of Embassies, which is divided into two volumes. The
first, published by Fulvius Ursinus, where collections are again
made out of Diodorus; and the other by David Hüschelius. This
account of the preservation of these fragments, and how they came
to light, I conceived was needful to satisfy the reader, to the end he
may be assured that he is not imposed upon by any thing fictitious
or spurious.
568
THE FRAGMENTS OF
. BOOK VI.
1. CASTOR and Pollux, who were also called Dioscuri, are said to
be eminent above others for valour, and remarkable in their assist-
ance in the expedition with the Argonauts; and afforded consider-
able help to them that were but otherwise very weak: and to say all
in a word, they gained in all places exceeding great honour and re-
putation for their valour, justice, piety, and martial skill and disci-
pline, and were always ready in every hazardous exploit with such as
were most forward: and therefore, for the eminence of their valour,
they were reputed the sons of Jupiter; and after their deaths, were
honoured with divine honours.
2. Epopeus, king of Sicyon, challenging the gods to a comhat, to
that end destroyed their temples and altars.
3. Sisyphus is said to excel all others in craft and cunning, and
by looking into tlie entrails of beasts, declared future events.
4. Salmoneus, king of Elis, was proud and profane, contemned
the gods, and preferred his own, above the acts of Jupiter himself;
and therefore, out of an engine* which sent forth a mighty sound,
he used to thunder, and never offered any sacrifices, or observed any
solemu festivals to the gods.
5. Tyro, they say, was Salmoneus's daughter, who was so called
from her beauty and comeliness of person.
6. Admetus, for his justice and piety, was so approved and'he-'
loved of the gods, that when Apoilo fell into the displeasure of Ju•
piter, he was ordered to be a servant to Admetus. They say likewise,
that Alceste the daughter of Pelias, who was the only daughter that
was innocent as to the murder of her father, was married to Admetus
on account of her piety.
7. Melampus was beloved by Apollo, for his eminent virtues and
piety.
8. When Troy was taken and entered, Æneas, with some others
of the citizens, possessed himself of part of the city; and defended it
bravely and valiantly against the assaults of the enemy. When the
Greeks, upon the terms made, agreed that each of the should car-
ry away as much of their goods as they could, all of them but Æneas
took away gold and silver, and whatever else was esteemed precious
a
A brazeri bridge, over which he drove a chariot, to imitate thunder-
Virg. Æneid. lib. 6.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
569
a
and valuable; but he carried away only his old father upon his shoul-
ders. The Grecians so much admired this, that they permitted him
to make choice of what part of his wealth and his household goods
he pleased; upon which, taking only his household gods, the virtue
and piety of the man astonished them more than before; for they
perceived, that in the height of his dangers and troubles, bis chiefest
care was to discharge his duty to his father, and his due and pious.
regards to the gods: and therefore, it is said, that both he; and the
rest of the Trojans that remained, had liberty given them, with as-
surance of safe passage, to go from Troy to whatsoever place they
pleased.
9. Romulus Sylvius was exceeding proud all the days of his life,
and a contemner of the gods. When Jupiter thundered, he used .
to command his soldiers, upon a sign given, all at once to strike on
their shields with their swords, and vaunted that it was a greater
noise than the other, and therefore he was struck dead with a thun.
derbolt.
10. About this time, one Malachus became king of the city of
Cuma, by ingratiating bimself with the common people, and accus-
ing and calumniating great men: for afterwards, putting to death
the richest of the citizens, he seized their estates, and with the wealth
thus got, hired a strong guard, and inspired the Cumani with dread
and terror.
11. Such was the eminent virtue of Lycurgus, that once when he
came to Delphos, the oracle saluted him with these verses. Seck in
the fragments of sentences.
While the Lacedemonians observed the laws of Lycurgus, from
a mean and low condition, they became very powerſul, and held the
sovereignty of Greece for above four hundred years. But when by
degrees they neglected and disregarded one law after another, and
degenerated into sloth and voluptuousness, and began to accumu-
late money and wealthi, they lost their sovereign authority.
12. Whereas the Elians were full of strong and useful men, and
had a well-governed commonwealth, the Lacedæmouians, jealous of
the increase of their power, endeavoured all they could to make them
sacred, that so being at peace, they might gain no experience in mat-
ters of war; to that end, with the consent of all the Grecians, they
devoted them to Jupiter; and therefore, neither when Xerxes broke
into Greece, were they compelled to raise soldiers, but, as the priests
of Jupiter, and overseers of the games, were free. Nor in the civil
wars of the Greeks did any molest them, all endeavouring to preserve
their country as a city sacred and inviolable. But in after times, the
Elians bėtook themselves to arms of their own accord.
VOL. 2, No. 47.
DDDD)
570
THE FRAGMENTS OF
13. The two brothers, Romulus and Remus, being thus exposed
in a cradle, when they grew up to men's estate, far excelled their
equals in strength and comeliness of their persons; and secured all
the shepherds and their flocks, by freeing them from the thieves that
used to make a prey of them, killing some in their attempts upon the
flocks, and taking others. And besides the honour they gained by
their valour, they were greatly beloved by the neighbouring shep-
herds, both for their familiar converse, and their civil and courteous
behaviour to all that made their addresses to them. The security
therefore of them all being lodged in them, most persons submitted
to them of their own accord, and were observant of their commands,
and went wheresoever they were ordered by them.
14. Polychares the Messenian, a man of noble birth, and very
rich, entered into a strict bond of familiarity and friendship with
Eucephnus the Spartan, who taking upon him the protection of the
flocks and shepherds, began to covet what they had; but his trea-
chery was soon discovered: for having sold some oxen, together with
the berdsmen themselves, to foreign merchants, and pretending that
robbers had carried them away by force, it happened that the mer-
chants sailing by the coasts of Peloponnesus towards Sicily, by a sud.
den storm were cast upon the land. Hereupon the herdsmen, tak-
ing advantage of the night, got ashore; and being well acquainted
with the place, fled and made their escape; and when they came to
Messena, they declared the whole business to their master: where-
upon Polychares concealed the herdsmen, and sent for Eucephnus
from Lacedemon; who, when he came, swore, and impudently
stood it out, that the shepherds and herdsmen were some of them
forcibly carried away by robbers, and the rest were killed: upon which
Polychares forthwith produced the herdsmen. At which Euceph-
nus was amazed; and thus plainly convicted of falsehood, presently
began to beg pardon, and promised to restore all the cattle, and used
many words to regain his favour. Polychares therefore, out of re-
gard to the sacred ties of friendship, concealed the fact, and sent bis
son with Eucephnus to Lacedæmon to recover the cattle. But Eu-
cephnus, disregardful of his promises, murdered the young man that
was sent along with him to Sparta. Polychares, enraged at this
Lloody act, required the Spartans to deliver up the murderer. But
the Lacedæmonians, not willing to comply with his demands, sent
the son of Eucephous with letters to Messena, wherein Polychares
was ordered to come to Sparta, and there to abide the judgment of
the ephori and the kings, concerning the matters whereof he com-
plained; but Polycliares, by way of retaliation, killed the son of
DIODORUS SICULUS,
371
Eucephaus, and drove away a prey of cattle out of the country of
Sparta.
15. Archias the Corinthian falling in love with Actæon, first
courted the youth with presents and fair promises; but not being
able to prevail by reason of the honesty of the boy's father, and the
sobriety and modesty of the young man himself, he got a company
of his friends together, resolving to do that by force which he could
not obtain by entreaty and fair means. Having therefore made him-
self drunk, with those he had brought along with him, he was hur-
ried on to that degree by his love-passion, that he broke forcibly in-
to the house of Melissus, and took away the boy by force; but his
father with his household servants laying hold of his son to detain
him, and both parties earnestly striving to get him one from the
other, the poor child was pulled to pieces among them, so that his
sufferings, and manner of them, occasioned both grief and admira-
tion at one and the same time: for the youth came to the like end
with him that bore the same name *, both of them being destroyed
much in the same manner, by those that came in to their assist,
ance.
16. Agathocles, to whom was committed the care of building a
temple to Minerva, paid the money out of his own purse; but he
selected the best and largest of the stones, and built for himself a
sumptuous and stately house: but the power of the goddess made it-
self evident, in destroying Agathocles with a thunderbolt, and burn-
ing his house; and the Geomorians confiscated his goods, although
his heirs proved clearly that he had not embezzled any of the sacred
treasure. They consecrated likewise the carcass of his house, and
made it a place inaccessible, which is now called Embrontæum.
17. Pompilius, king of Rome, lived peaceably all his days, and
some say he was a hearer of Pythagoras, and that he had his laws
concerning religior: from him, and many other things which mucà
advanced bis reputation; and therefore, though he was a stranger, he
was sent for to take upon him the crown.
18. Diocles, king of the Medes, when all sorts of wickedness as
bounded, was eminent for justice and all other virtues.
19. The Sybarites were addicted to gluttony and voluptuousness,
and such was their strife and study to be luxurious, that they loved
the lonians and Thuscians above all other strangers, because those
among the Greeks, and these among the barbarians, were most lux,
urious and effeminate. It is said that Mindyrides was the most vor
luptuous of any of the Sybarites; for when Clisthenes, king of Si-
cyon, was victor in the race with chariots drawn by four horses, and
Actæon was torn in pieces by bis own dogs,
*
572
THE FRAGMENTS OF
had proclaimed by the crier _That whosoever would marry his
daughter, a most beautiful lady, should come to Sicyon at a certain
day appointed, this Mindyrides set out from Sybaris in a vessel of
above fifty oars of a side, and furnished it with rowers out of his own
family, of whom some were fishermen, and the rest were fowlers.--
And when he came into the haven of Sicyon, he not only far sur-
passed all bis rivals for state and grandeur, but likewise the king
himself, although the whole city, out of vain glory, profusely con-
tributed their wealth to Clisthenes. And being presently after his
arrival entertained at supper, and asked by one who should sit next
him, he caused it to be proclaimed by the voice of an herald_That
he would sit next the bride, or by himself alone.
20. Hippomenes, archon of Athens, when his daughter bad played
the whore, punished her after a most cruel and inhuman manner;
for he shut ber up in a stable with a horse kept some days without
meat, which through want of food at length eat up the miserable and
unfortunate lady.
21. Arcesilaus, king of Cyrene, being grievously afflicted with
many pressing calamities, consulted the oracle at Delphos; to whom
Apollo ansiered_That the gods were angry because none of the
succeeding kings since Battus governed so justly and righteously as
he did, for he reigned mildly and gently, content only with the name
of a king; and that wbich was most commendable of all was, that
he carefully kept and maintained the worship of the gods; but his
successors have ever since reigned tyrannically, and converted the
public treasure to their own private use, and veglected the service of
the gods.
22. Demonax of Mantinea, was the arbitrator to allay the sedition
among the Cyreneans, a person of great honour and esteem for bis
wisdom and justice. When he arrived at Cyrene all their differences
were referred to him, and he reconciled the cities upon these terms
and conditions
23. Lucius Tarquinius, king of the Romans, being carefully edu-
cated from a child, and much addicted to the liberal sciences, was
greatly admired by all for his virtuous qualifications; and therefore,
when he attained to man's estate, he was in great favour and esteem
with Ancus Martius then king of Rome; and, together with the king,
be ordered avd managed many of the weighty affairs of the kingdom.
Being very rich himself, he liberally supplied the wants of others,
and was courteous and obliging to all, and therefore cried up greatly
for bis wisdom.
24. Solon was the son of Exechestides; he was an Athenian, and
his ancestors inhabitants of the island of Salamis; for wisdom and
DIODORUS SICULUS.
573
learning he far exceeded all of his time: being virtuously inclined in
his youth, he applied himself to the study of the best arts and scien-
ces: and having long inured himself to all sorts of learning, he be-
came the great master and champion of every virtue. For, being
under the care of the best tutors from a child, when he grew up to
man's estate, he associated with such as were esteemed the greatest
philosophers: upon the account of which converse, he was esteemed
one of the seven wise men, and was not only preferred before all
the rest, but likewise before all others that were eminent for their
wisdom. He was in great honour for making of laws, and admired
by all for his singular prudence in his private discourses and answers,
and in giving counsel and advice. When the Athenians became
lonians in their manners, and in a high degree luxurious and effemi-
nate, Solon by degrees gained them to the love of virtue and honour-
able actions: for Harmodius and Aristogiton, principled by his laws
and discipline, overturned the tyranny of Pisistratus.
25. There was one Myson of Malea, living in a town called Che-
na, who lay most commonly in the fields, obscure, unknown almost
to every one, upon the expelling of Periander the Corinthian for his
tyranny and cruelty, was taken into the society of one of the seven
wise men.
26. Chilo lived according to liis doctrine, which is a thing rare to
be found: for we may see many philosophers in our age, who talk
at a great rate, yet their manners and course of life are filthy and abo-
minable, who look and speak like grave wise men, yet hy their ac-
tions give themselves the lie. But Chilo, besides his virtuous life
all his days, conceived and uttered many excellent things worthy of
remark.
27. Pittacus Mitylene, was a man not only to be admired for his
wisdom, but was such a citizen as Lesbos never before produced the
like, nor is ever likely to do, as I think, till it produce plenty of sweet
wine. For he was an excellent law-maker, and civil and courteous
towards all his fellow citizens in their various meetings and public
assemblies, and freed his country from the three most grievous cala-
mities, tyranny, sedition, and war. He was a most prudent and cour-
teous man, ever ready to excuse other men's faults, and therefore
seemed to be a person perfectly virtuous in every respect; for in
making of laws, he was prudent and politic, faithful to his word, va-
liant in war, and one that scorned corrupt lucre and gain.
28. The Prienians say-That Bias having redeemed from the
hands of robbers some captive Messenian virgins, persons of consi-
derable quality, he took them into his own house, and honourably
entertained them as his own daughters: and when their relations
a
574
THE FRAGMENTS OF
1
and kindred came to Priene to look after them, he restored them to
their friends, without taking any thing either for their diet or re-
demption; but on the contrary presented them with many gifts out
of his own estate. And therefore the ladies loved him as their own
father, both for his noble entertainment, and the largeness of his
bounty; so that when they returned home, they were still mindful of
his kindness to them: and therefore, when the fishermen of Messe-
na drew up a brazen tripod with their nets, whereon were inscribed
these words. To the wisest! they procured it to be given to Bias,
He was the most rhetorical and eloquent man in his time; but far
different from all others in the use he made of his eloquence; for he
was not mercenary, nor aimed at gain, but practised it for the relief
of men in distress, which is rare now to be found.
29. Cyrus, the son of Cambyses and Mandane, nephew to Astya-
ges king of the Medes, for valour, prudence, and other virtues, ex-
celled all others in the age wherein he lived; for his father gave him
a royal education, encouraging him to every thing that was high and
brave. And even while he was a boy he gave evident tokens of his
attempting great things at one time or another; his virtue and valour
appearing now beforehand so evidently while he was but a child.
30. Astyages, king of the Medes, being beaten in a battle, and
forced to a dishonourable flight, was enraged at his soldiers, and dis-
banded all his officers, and placed others in their stead; but as for
those that were the occasion of the flight, he picked them out of all
his troops and put them to death, thinking by this example to make
the rest more careful in the discharge of their duty when they came
to fight; for he was naturally cruel and implacable. But his soldiers
were so far from being terrified by his severity, that, in batred of bis
cruelty and inhumanity, every one of them were ready to revolt,
and to that end began to meet in great companies, and talk trea-
son, stirring up one another to revenge the deaths of their fellow
soldiers.
31. Cyrus, they say, was not only valiant against the enemy, but
mild and gentle towards his subjects; and therefore the Persians call
him their father.
32. One Adrastus a Phrygian, by casting a dart at a boar in hunt-
ing, accidentally killed Atys the son of Cræsus, king of Lydia; and
though he slew him unintentionally, yet he said that he himself who
killed him was not worthy to live, and therefore entreated Cræsus
not to spare bim, but forth with to cut his throat at his son's sepul-
chre. Cresus was indeed at first in a rage with Adrastus for the
death of his son, and threatened to burn him alive; but when he
perceived that the young man did not seek to avoid punishment, but
DIODORUS SICULUS.
575
rather voluntarily offered his life as a sacrifice for the deed, his anger
was appeased, and he pardoned him, complaining of his own mis-
fortune, and not of any purpose or design in the young man: how-
ever, Adrastus went privately to the sepulchre of Atys and there kill-
ed himself.
33. Creesus, king of Lydia, pretending to send Eurybatus the E.
phesian to Delphos, sent him in truth with a great sum of money in-
to Peloponnesus to hire soldiers; but Eurybatus fled to Cyrus, king
of Persia, and discovered to him all Creesus's designs: and therefore
this treachery of Eurybatus was so remarkable among the Grecians,
that when they would upbraid any man with a base action, they call
him Eurybatus.
34. Cyrus believing that Cresus was a religious man, because a
sudden storm of rain from heaven extinguished the fire in the pile
whereon he was burnt, and calling to mind the saying of Solon; car-
ried Croesus along with him, using him with all honor and respect,
and made him one of his privy council, conceiving him to be a pru-
deat man, who had familiarly conversed with so many and such emi-
nent persons for wisdom.
35. Servius Tullius king of Rome reigned forty-four years, and out
of his own virtuous disposition ordered many things for the good of
the commonwealth.
36. When Thericles was chief magistrate at Athens in the sixty-
first olympiad, Pythagoras the philosopher flourished, having attain-
ed to the highest pitch of wisdom; a man worthy to have his memo-
ry eternized, if ever any philosopher deserved it; he was born at Sa-
mos, though some say at Tyrrhenum. His speeches were uttered
with so much grace, and force of persuasion that almost the whole
city gazed upon him daily, as if some god had been before them,
and a great concourse of people came from all parts to hear him.
And he was not only eminently eloquent, but very sober and grave,
and was a wonderful example for young men to imitate in the course
of their lives in that respect; and all whom he conversed with he
dissuaded from vain pomp and luxury; all the inhabitants of that
country (through plenty and fulness of all things among them) being
given to effeminacy and filthiness both of body and mind.
This Pythagoras, when he heard that Pherecydes once his master
was very sick in the island Delos, forth with sailed out of Italy thi-
ther; where after he had for some time cherished the old man, and
used bis utmost endeavour to restore him to bealth, at length, through
old age and the violence of his distemper, he died, and Pythagoras
carefully buried him; and so having performed the office and duty
of a 800, as to a father, he returned into Italy.
576
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
a
37. The Pythagoreans (if any of their society fall into decay) di-.
vide and contribute proportions of their goods to him that is so in
want, as if he were their brother; and this they do, not only as to
them that are daily conversant with them, but likewise to all others
of the same sect and profession wherever they be. And therefore
one Clinias of Tarentum when he understood that Prorus a Cyrenian
and a Pythagorean, by some misfortune or other had lost all his es-
tate, and was become exceeding poor, passed over out of Italy to Cy-
rene with a considerable sum of money, and made up the loss of his
patrimony though he had never seen him before, but only understood
by hearsay that he was a Pythagorean. And it is reported that ma-
ny others bave done the like. And they have not only supplied their
companions with money in their wants, but have hazarded their per-
sons with them in the most dangerous times. For in the reign of
Dionysius the Tyrant it is reported that one Phintias a Pythagorean,
when by the contrivance of the tyrant he was to be led to execution,
desired of Dionysius but a few days to settle his household affairs,
and promised that in the mean time he would leave one of his friends
to suffer in his stead, if he returned not. Dionysius hereupon won-
dering whether any such friend could be found, who would be wil-
ling to be cast into gaol for his friend, Phintias presently called Da-
mon a Pythagorean, one of his scholars, who forthwitha without any
hesitation became his hostage to die in his room.
Many there were that commended this singular demonstration of
love and kindness to bis friend, others condemned it as a foolish and
rash act. But at the day appointed, all the people flocked together,
very earnest to see whether he that had left his pledge would perform
his word. But the day drawing near to an end, every body began to
despair, and Damon was led forth to execution, and then on a sud-
den, at the very last moment of the day, Phintias came running in!
This wonderful friendship and kindness for each other was admired
by all; and Dionysus pardoned the condemned person, and desired
that he himself might be taken into the society.
38. The Pythagoreans had a great art in improving their memo-
ries, and to that end employed their utmost care and diligence. For
the first thing they did constantly after they rose from their beds in
a morning, was to recollect and call to mind every thing they had
dove the day before, from the morning to the evening: and if they
had time and leisure, they would go back to examine the actions of
the second, third, and fourth days, and sometimes farther, conceiving
it very helpful and advantageous for improving the memory, and in-
creasing knowledge.
38. These philosophers inured themselves to alstinence by this
DIODORUS SICULUS.
577
!
means. They prepare all sorts of delicacies and rarities, such as
tables are furnished with at solemn feasts; and after they have gazed
on them for a considerable time, on purpose to whet their appetite,
which naturally desires in such cases to be gratified, on a sudden the
table is ordered to be whipped away, and thereupon they withdraw,
without tasting any of the dainties.
40. Pythagoras commanded his disciples to forbear taking an oath
as much as they could; but when they had once taken it, to be care-
ful to keep it. Having likewise regard to what was convenient, even
in the acts of Venus, he advised to abstain from women in the sum-
mer time, and to be moderate and sparing in winter: for he looked
upon all carnal copulation to be hurtful; but if it were frequent, he
said, it impared the strength, and was destructive.
He advised likewise, that the sacrificers should not make their ad-
dresses to the gods in rich and gaudy habits, but only in white and
clean robes; and should not only bring before them bodies free from
gross and outward wickednesses, but pure and undefiled souls. Com-
manding these and many such like things, and stirring men up to
sobriety, valour, constancy, and all other virtues, he was adored by
the Crotonians as if he had been a god.
41. One Cylo of Crotona, the most wealthy and eminent man
of all the citizens, being desirous of being received into the society of
the Pythagoreans, was rejected, because he was naturally a fierce and
stubborn man, seditious and ambitious. At which he was so en-
raged, that he got together a number of factious persons against the
Pythagoreans, and began to rail and do all the mischief he could to
them.
42. Lysis the Pythagorean, going to Thebes in Beotia, became
tutor to Epaminondas, and instructed him in all the ways of virtue;
and by reason of his excellent endowinents adopted him to be his
son: and Epaminondas, from those sparks of knowledge he had
gained from the Pythagorean philosophy, excelled not only the The-
bans, but all the rest of the Grecians of his time, in patience, fruga-
lity, and all other virtues.
43. To write the lives of persons in former ages is indeed a diffi-
cult and troublesome task to the historians, but very profitable to o-
thers, for their direction in the course of their lives. For this kind
of history, by recording good and bad actions, graces the memory of
the good, and fixes a stain upon the name of the wicked, by sharing
out praise and disgrace to each of them according as they deserve it.
“ For praise is a certain reward of virtue without cost; and disgrace
“ is the punishment of vice without a wound.” And therefore it is
very fit that every one should understand, that according to the course
VOL. 2. No. 47.
a
a
EEEE
578
THE FRAGMENTS OF
of life men lead here, such will be the account and remembrance of
them afterwards when they are dead; so that they need not employ
all their thoughts upon marble monuments, which are set up only in
a little corner, and decayed and gone in process of time; but rather
apply their minds to learning, and other virtuous qualifications, which
would render their names fainous over all the world.
For time, which consumes all other things, preserves these to
perpetual generations; and the older they grow, the more fresh
and flourishing it presents them. For they that have gone long
ago, are still in every man's mouth, as if they were now at this very
day alive.
44. Cambyses was naturally furious and even a madman, and the
more fierce and insolent on account of his large dominion.
Cambyses the Persiau, puffed up with the success of his arms, after
the taking of Memphis and Pelusium, insolently demolished the se-
pulclire of Amasis, an antient king of Egypt; and finding his body
embalmed with odoriferous spices, basely and inhumanly cudgeled it
and abused it with all manner of contempt, and afterwards ordered
it to be burnt to ashes. Fur, because the Egyptians never burnt
their dead bodies, he thought by this means he sufficiently revenged
himself of the man who was dead long before.
Cambyses, when he prepared for his expedition against the Æthi-
opians, sent part of his army against the Ammonians, and command-
ed his officers to rob the temple of Jupiter Ammon, set it on fire, and
make all the people around captives.
45. Certain Lydians flying away to avoid the tyrannical govern-
ment of Orætes, the governor of the province, went to Samos with a
vast treasure of gold, and humbly addressed themselves to Polycra-
tes for relief; who at first courteously entertained them, but not long
after cut all their throats, and robbed them of their money.
46. Thessalus the son of Pisistratus, a wise and prudent man, vo-
luntarily abdicated the sovereignty, and acted only as a private man,
contented merely to share in the common rights and liberties of
the citizens, for which he was held in high esteem and reputa-
tion.
· But his brothers Ilipparchus and Hippias, being rigid and cruel,
ruled tyrannically over their citizens. After they had for some time
grievously oppressed the Athenians, Hipparchus falling in love with
a beautiful boy, plunged himself into perilous circumstances: for
Harmodius and Aristogiton joined in a conspiracy against the tyrant,
in order to free their country from slavery: but Aristogiton was the
cliicf man for a brave and resolute spirit, in enduring all sorts of tor-
ments with patience and constancy, who in the most perilous times,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
570
was especially famous for two things, faithfulness to his friends, and
just revenge to his enemies.
47. Zeno of Elis, being seized upon for a conspiracy against Ne-
archus, who tyrannically oppressed the country, was put to the rack.
When the tyrant asked him who were his fellow conspirators; he re-
plied, I would to God I had as much command of the rest of my bo-
dy as I have of my tongue.
Hereupon the tyrant screwing him up, and torntenting him the
more, Zeno for some time courageously endured the pain, but after-
wards, to free himself and be revenged on the tyrant, he had this con-
trivance_The rack being extended to the utmost, he feigned as if
he could no longer bear it, and therefore cried out to release him
and he would discover all; the rack being thereupon loosed, he de-
sired the tyrant would come to him himself, for he had many things
to discover, which required secrecy. Upon which he came readily
to him, and put his face close to Zeno's ear; upon which he took
fast hold of the tyrant's ear with his teeth: whereupon the guards
came running in, and racking him to the utmost they could, to force
him to let go his hold, he fastened his teeth the more fiercely; so
that the guard not being able to hame the resolution of the man, they
were forced to entreat him to let go: and by this trick, he was released
from his torments, and at the same time had his revenge upon the
tyrant.
48 Sextus, the son of Lucinius Tarquinius, king of the Romans,
took a journey to the city of Collatia, and there lodged at the house
of Lucius Tarquinius, the king's nephew, whose wife was called Lu-
eretia, a most beautiful lady, and renowned for her chastity. Sextus
rose up in the night and broke down her chamber door, when she
was in bed, and attempted to force her, her husband being then in
the camp at Ardea, and with his drawn sword in his band threatened
to kill her unless she yielded, and told her be had a slave ready,
whom he would lay naked in bed with her, and kill them both, that
it might be said she was justly killed in the act of adultery, and
that he had done it in revenge of the injury done his kinsman.com
And therefore it was better for her quietly to gratify himn in what he
desired, promising her likewise many large and rich rewards, and to
marry her, ayd so from a private condition, she would be advanced
to the state and dignity of a queen. Lucretia, amazed at the strange-
ness and suddenness of the thing, and fearful lest it should be
thought she was killed really in the act of adultery, was quiet at that
time. The next day, when Sextus was gone, she sent for all her ser-
vants and household, and desired they would not suffer the wicked,
ness of the man to go unpunished, who had violated all the laws of
580
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
friendship and hospitality: and as for herself, she said, it was not
honourable longer to survive the violation of her chastity. And hav-
ing thus spoken, she stabbed herself with a dagger, and so breathed
her last.
49. Hippocrates, king of Gela, after his victory over the Syracu-
sans, when he encamped near the temple of Jupiter, took the chief
priests, and some of the principal citizens of Syracuse, who had spoil-
ed the temple of some of the consecrated golden vessels, and ear-
ried away other things, especially Jupiter's cloak, which was made
of massy and solid gold, sharply rebuked them as sacrilegious per-
sons, and commanded them forthwith to return to the city. He
himself touched none of the things devoted, both to advance the cre-
dit and reputation of his own name, as likewise judging it unfit for
him, who had undertaken so great a war, to 'act so great a piece of
impiety against the gods. Besides, he conceived by this means he
should stir up the people against the governors of Syracuse, who rul-
ed the commonwealth with rigour, beyond all bounds of moderation
or equity.
50. Theron of Agrigentum, for wealth and nobility of birth, and
his courteous carriage, towards even the meanest of the people, was
not only highly honoured amongst the citizens, but even among all
the Sicilians,
51 Cimon the son of Miltiades, when his father died in the com-
mon gaol, because he was not able to pay the fine imposed upon
him, gave up himself into custody, to abide in prison for his father's
mulct, that he might bave the body of his parent to bury it.
52. Cimon was very eminent when he was a civil magistrate,
and afterwards became a fainous general in the wars, and per-
formed such actions by his valour, as are worthy an everlasting
remembrance.
53. Those of Thermopylæ died fighting courageously, whose va-
lour, &c
Which are published in the 11th book of Dios
dorus's history, page 369, of the present edition.
What is further contained in the manuscript, I have purposely o-
mitted, to the amount of twelve folios, because they are included in
the bistory:
DIODORUS SICULUS
581
FROM THE SAME.
1. ANTIGONUS, from a private man, advanced to the state and
dignity of a king, was the most potent prince of any of his time; but
not contented with his condition, without the least colour of right,
was prompted by his ambition to grasp at the dominions of other
princes, and by that means both lost his own, and his life at the
same time*.
2. When Agathocles heard that the Ligurians and Tyrrhenians
had mutinously fallen upon his son Archagathus, in his absence, for
their pay, he put them all to the sword, to the number of almost
two thousand.
3. The Thracians, who had taken Agathocles, the son of king
Lysimachus, in a battle, sent him back to his father with several
gifts; by this means hoping, in case of misfortunes, to shelter them-
selves under his protection, and hereby likewise to induce him free-
ly to restore their territory, which he then possessed: for they were
out of all hopes of victory, seeing so many potent kings confederated
with Lysimachus.
4. Dromichætes, king of Thrace, having taken Lysimachus pri-
soner, treated him with every kind of civility; and kissed and em-
braced him, calling him his father, and brought him with his chil-
dren into the city of Helis. And when the Thracians came in a bo-
dy together, and demanded that the captive king should be brought
forth and put to death, for it was but just and equal that they who
had adventured their lives, should dispuse of the captives as they
thought fit; Dromichætes making a speech against putting the king
to death, told the soldiers that it was for the public good to preserve
the king: for if they killed him forthwith, some others would take
possession of his kingdom, who perhaps might become more formi-
dable to them than Lysimachus. But on the other hand, if they pre-
served him, that favour would work so much, as in gratitude to pro-
duce a favourable respect to the Thracians, and to procure, without
running any risk, the restitution of all those forts and castles which
formerly belonged to the Thracians.
The army then agreeing to what he said, he brought forth all the
friends and servants of Lysimachus whom he could find among the
captives, and delivered them to him. Afterwards, when he offered
a solemn sacrifice to the gods, he invited Lysimachus and all his
* At the battle of Issus.
582
THE FRAGMENTS OF
friends, with the chief officers and commanders of the Thracians to
supper. And having prepared two apartments, he covered the beds
whereon Lysimachus and his friends were to sit, with rich carpets,
part of the spoils taken in battle; but for himself and the rest of the
Thracians, the coverings were but poor and mean.
He prepared
likwise two sorts of suppers; that for Lysimachus and his friends
consisted of all sorts of rarities and noble dishes, set upon silver
tables: but for the Thracians, he ordered herbs and flesh meanly
dressed, to be set on a table uncovered, in wooden platters. To con-
clude, the first were served with wine in gold and silver bowls; but
for himself and his Thracians, he ordered cups of wood and born,
after the manner of the Getæ. Afterwards, in the beight of the
feast, be filled up the greatest horn with wine, and calling Lysima-
chus father, asked him which of the two seemed to him more prince-
ly, a Thracian or a Macedonian supper? When Lysimachus replied,
a Macedonian...See the rest in the fragments of sentences.
5. King Demetrius, after lie had forced the rest of the cities 10 a
submission, conducted himself nobly towards the Bæotians: for he-
sides the fourteen persons, that were at the head of the defection, he
pardoned all the rest.
6. Archagathus was valorous and courageous, beyond his age: for
he was very young.
7. Timæus was a bitter censurer of former historians, yet in other
parts of his history, very careful to declare the truth; but his hatred
of Agathocles was such, that he forged many things concerning his
actions; for, being banished by Agathocles out of the island, he
could not be revenged of the tyrant while he lived: but after his
death, he loaded him with reproaches in his history, to make his me-
mory odious to all posterity. For besides the vices this king was
really guilty of, he imputed many others to him, invented by hima-
self, and always lessened his prosperous successes, and aggravated
his misfortunes which were merely casual, and turned them upon
himself as the cause of them, through his own miscarriages. For
whereas all knew that Agathocles was a prudent and expert soldier
aud commander, and was bold and courageous in the greatest diffi-
culties, he is all along in his history continually calling him a weak-
headed coward. And yet who is there that is iguorant that none
were ever under meaner circumstauces who afterwards attained to
such a degree of sovereignty and doininiou? for his poverty and
low birth was such, that from his childhood he was a mean artificer*;
.
but afterwards by his valour, le not only gained the sovereign power
over all Sicily, but conquered a great part of Italy and Africa. And
* A putter's son,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
583
any one may justly wonder at the vanity of Timæus, who almost in
every page extols the valour of the Syracusans, and yet affirms him
who conquered them to be the greatest coward of any man living..
From these contradictions and inconsistencies it is clear and mani-
fest, mat out of a private pique and disgust he betrayed the trust of
a faithful historian: and therefore his last five books, wherein are se
forth the acts of Agathocles, for very good reason, were never approve
ed by any.
8. Callias, likewise a Syracusan, deserves as much to be censured
as the other, who being enriched and advanced by Agathocles, ne-
ver ceases praising him far above his desert, and so dishonouring
history, which should be the herald of truth. For whereas Agatha
cles in many things violated both the laws of God and man, he cries
him up as the most pious and righteous man in the world. To con-
clude, as Agathocles took away the goods of the citizens hy force,
and most wrongfully bestowed them upon this writer, so this admir-
able historiographer, by way of requital, loads him with praises of
all sorts and sizes. But in my opinion it were no difficult task, by
way of grateful return, to repay favours received from prioces, by
moderate and due praises and commendations.
9. After the mercenary soldiers * had agreed with the Syracu-
sans, they marched off, and were received by the Messavians as
friends and confederates: and being thus kindly entertained by the
citizens, in the night they murdered all their hosts, and took their
wives as their own, and possessed themselves of the city.
10. When Demetrius was a prisoner at Pella, Lysimachus sent an
ambassador to Seleucus, to caution him not to suffer him upon any
terms to get out of his hands, being, as he said, an insatiably ambi-
tious man, and one continually plotting against the kings; and pro-
mised he would give him two thousand talents if he would put De-
metrius to death. But Seleucus sharply rebuked the ambassadors,
for endeavouring to persuade him not only to violate bis faith, but
to commit so horrid a piece of wickedness against one so nearly re-
lated to him. But he wrote a letter to his son Antiochus, who was
then in Media, to ask his advice what should be done with Deme-
trius; for he had resolved to release him, and restore him honour-
ably to his kingdom; but was willing likewise to have the favour
acknowledged by his son Antiochus t, who had married Stratopice,
the daughter of Demetrius, and had several children by her.
* The Mamertines,
f Soter.
584
THE FRAGMENTS OF
BOOK XXII.
1. WHEN a garrison was put into Rhegium by the Romans, De-
cias, a Campanian, a covetous and impudent fellow, acted the base
and treacherous part of the Mamertines; for as they were received
as friends by the Messapians, and seized upon their city, and cut the
throats of all the Messanians their landlords, in their own houses,
and married their wives, and possessed themselves of the estates of
those they had murdered; so the Campanian soldiers, to whom, with
Decius, the garrison of Rhegium was committed by the Romans,
with the like perfidiousness killed all the Rhegians, and dividing
their goods among themselves, possessed themselves of the city.--
But Decius the governor, after he had sold the goods of those mi-
serable people, and shared the money he had treacherously raised,
was expelled from Rhegium by the Campanians, his co-partners in
this wicked act. But every one of these perfidious villains at length
met with their just reward: for Decius being seized with a grievous
pain in his eyes, sent for an eminent physician of Rhegium, who,
to revenge the wrong done to his country, anointed Decius's eyes
with cantharides, and by this means having made him stark blind,
forthwith quitted Messana.
2. Phintias having tyrannically oppressed his citizens, and put to
death many of the wealthy men, began to be hated by his subjects
for his cruelty; and therefore all being ready for a general defec-
tion, and he himself reduced to great straits, on a sudden changed
his former course, and ruling more moderately, kept his subjects
within the bounds of their duty and obedience.
3. Ptolemy Ceraunus, king of Macedonia, being indeed very young,
and altogether unexpert in military affairs, and naturally rash and
weak-headed, made no provision for any thing as he ought: and
therefore, when he was advised by his friends to wait for the auxiliary
forces, who were not as yet come up to him, he disregarded their
counsel.
4. Apollodorus affecting the sovereign power, and desirous to
confirm the conspirators in what they had undertaken, sent for a
young man, one of his friends, under colour of coming to sacrifice;
and when he came he offered him up to the gods, and gave his en-
trails to be eaten by the conspirators, and drank to them in his blood
mixed with wine.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
585
5. The same Apollodorus armed some Gauls, and engaged them
with large gifts, and made use of them for his life-guard, because
they were naturally cruel, and ready to execute any villany. He
raised likewise a great sum of money, by confiscating, and exposing
to public sale, the goods of the wealthy citizens. He became very
powerful in a short time, by increasing the pay of the soldiers, and
distributing money among the poorer classes.
Being wholly given up to cruelty and covetousness, he squeezed
money from the citizens, and forced both men and women, by racks
and torments, to bring forth all their gold and silver; for he made
use of one Calliphon, a Sicilian for his adviser, a proficient in tyran-
ny, who had been long bred up a courtier among many of the ty-
rants in Sicily.
6. When Pyrrhus had plundered Ægeas, the seat-royal of the
kings of Macedonia, he left there a garrison of Gauls, who being in-
formed by some persons that there were great treasures, according
to antient custom, hid in the sepulchres of the kings, dug up all the
tombs and divided the wealth among themselves, but scattered abroad
the bones and ashes of the dead.
However, Pyrrhus, though he was railed at for this piece of inhu-
manity, yet he punished not the barbarians, because he made use of
them in his wars.
BOOK XXIII.
1. I LOOK upon it as the duty of an historian diligently to observe
the stratagems and management of affairs by generals on both sides :
for by laying open, and criticising other men's faults, the like mis-
carriage may be prevented in them that come after. And on the o-
ther side, by commending things which are done well, others are
stimulated to virtuous actions. For who can but utterly condemn
the pride, folly, madness, and insolence of Attilius*? who, not able
to bear the weight of his prosperous fortune, both lost his own re-
patation, and brought many great mischiefs and calamities upon
his country. For when he might have concluded a peace with the
Carthaginians, honourable and advantageous to the Romans, but
• Attilius Regulus.
VOL. 2, No. 47.
FFFF
596
TIE FRAGMENTS OF
base and dishonourable to the other, and his name might have been
for ever renowned amongst all men for his clemency and humanity,
he had no regard to any of these things: but proudly insulting the
distresses of the afflicted, stood upon such terms as not only provok-
ed the Gods to anger, but forced the conquered, by reason of these
unreasonable conditions, to stand it out resolutely to the utmost ex-
tremity: so that the face of affairs was suddenly changed, insomuch,
that the Carthaginians, who but a little before were in great terror
and amazement, on account of their late rout, and despaired of any
relief, gathered courage, and routed and cut off their enemy's army:
and upon this misfortune, such was the distress and amazement of
the city of Rome, that they who were before esteemed the best sol-
diers in the world, durst not engage the enemy in that kind any more;
and therefore this is the longest war we read of in former times.
And the matter was now to be decided by sea-fights, in which a vast
number of ships, both of the Romans and their confederates, were
destroyed; and a hundred thousand men perished in these battles.
And it is easy to conceive how vast a treasure must be expended,
sufficient to maintain so great a fleet for the continuance of a war for
fifteen years. But he who was the author and occasion of so many
miseries, had himself no small share in the calamity, since his pre-
sent dishonour and disgrace far over-balanced his former glory and
reputation; and by his misfortune others are taught not to be proud
in prosperity. And that which was most cutting and grievous was,
that he was now forced to endure the scoffs and scorns of those over
whom he had before exulted in the time of their calamity; having
entirely debarred bimself from that pity and commiseration which is
usually shewn to those that are in affliction. But as for Xantippus,
he not only delivered the Carthaginians from the present evils whicla
hung over them, but altogether changed the face of affairs; for he
utterly routed the Romans, who were but just now conquerors, and,
after a prodigious slaughter, raised the Carthaginians to such a height
of prosperity, who were expecting their last doom, that for the fu-
ture they slighted and contemned their enemy.
The report of this famous action being circulated over almost the
whole world, every one admired the valour of this general. For it
appeared like a miracle to every one, that there should be such a
sudden change of affairs, by one man only joining with the Cartha.
ginians, and that they wlio were but lately so closely besieged,
should on a sudden besiege the enemy: and that they who by their
valour were a little before lords both of sea and land, should be now
cooped up in a small town, expecting every day to become a prey to
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
587
their enemies; but it is not to be wondered at, since the prudence
and wisdom of the general overcame all difficulties.
2. Amilcar the Carthaginian, called Barcas, and Hannibal bis son,
the great Carthaginiai generals, are reputed the greatest captains
that ever appeared either before or after them, and by their victories
greatly enlarged the dominions of the Carthaginians,
BOOK XXIV.
a
1. CLODIUS coming into Sicily, as soon as he had received the
charge of the army, which then closely besieged Lilybæum, called
the soldiers together, and began bitterly to inveigh against the con-
suls from whom he received the legions, declaring they had negli-
gently managed the war, giving themselves up to wine, luxury, and
voluptuousness, and that they were really more besieged than the
enemy. But this man being naturally hot and fiery, and somewhat
crack-brained, acted many things rashly and like a madman. For
in the first place, imitating the indiscreet actions of those he had
before censured, he attempted to raise up a mole in the sea to block
up the haven, with so much the more imprudence, as the fault is the
greater not to learn to profit, by before seeing the mistakes and mis-
carriages of another, than to run into an error upon the first attempt
Being likewise naturally cruel and severe in the infliction of punislı
ment, after the manner of his ancestors, he was inexorable in pu-
pishing the soldiers, and scourged the Roman confederates with
rods. To conclude, he was so swelled with pride on account of his
.
noble birth, and the renown of his ancestors, that he despised every
body else.
2. Amilcar, before he was chosen general, was noted to be a man
of a magnanimous spirit; and after he was advanced to that honour,
he deceived not their expectation, but behaved himself as a noble
Carthaginian, in every thing aiming at fame and renown, and des..
pising dangers. He was both prudent, valiant, and industrious, the
best king and the most valiant general,
2. Hanno was naturally of an aspiring spirit and thirsting after
588
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
glory, and having a great army which lay idle, hoped by this expe-
dition both to train and exercise the soldiers, and likewise to main-
tain them, and by that means to ease the city of a great charge; and
besides, to perform some considerable service, which might prove
both honourable and profitable to the commonwealth.
4. When Hanno had taken Hecatompylos *, and the elders of the
city addressed themselves to him, and begged and eutreated him to
shew them pity and compassion, being something vain-glorious at
this time, he preferred mercy to severity, and took three thousand
hostages, and preserved the city and the estates of the citizens entire
and untouched : for which he was highly honoured by the poor peo-
ple, and the soldiers were splendidly and liberally entertained by the
inhabitants with all manner of rich provisions.
5. But the mother of the young men grievously laid to heart the
death of her husband, and conceiving that through their careless-
ness and negleçt he had lost his life, she incited her sons to use the
captives most cruelly and iubumanly, for they were thrust into a little
close room, by reason of which they were forced to throng upon one
another like heasts; and after they had been kept without meat for
five days, Bostar I died, through vexation of mind and famine. But
Amilcar, being a man of a great spirit, held out still, though he saw
no hopes of relief: but told her how careful he had been of her hus-
band, and entreated her with tears to compassion; but she was so far
from being touched with the least sense of humanity, that this cruel
woman shut up the carcass with him for five days together in that
close hole, and gave him meat only to keep him alive, that he might
be the longer sensible of his miserable condition. Amilcar now de-
spairing by entreating or begging to move her to pity, began to call
upon Jupiter, and cry out to the rest of the gods who took care of
mankind, to revenge him upon the woman, and repay her with just
and due punishment.
However, in the midst of all these torments he was kept alive,
till, through the mercy of the gods, or some good fortune, he was
wonderfully and unexpectedly delivered. For even when he was
upon the point of death, through the stench of the dead body, and
other miseries he laboured under, some of the meaner servants be-
Jonging to the house told it to some others abroad, who, in indigna,
tion to such cruelty and wickedness, forthwith informed the tribunes
of the people of this horrid fact. Whereupon, when it was disco-
vered, the magistrates sent for the Attilii, who, for branding the Ro,
man name with such a dishonourable mark of barbarous cruelty,
A city of Thebes in Egypt. The wife of Attilas. Gr. Bodostos,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
589
very narrowly escaped being put to death: but the magistrates
threatened the Attilii severely to punish them if they did not for the
future use their prisoners civilly, and take due care of them. They
imputed most that was done to their mother; and burning the body
of Bostar, sent the ashes back to his own country, and freed Amilcar
from the distress and calamity he groaned under,
BOOK XXV.
1. THE Carthaginians, who had been at war with the Romans for
the possession of Sicily now four-and-twenty years, suffered not so
much by that war as they did hy their mercenary soldiers whom they
had injured: for designing to defraud them of their pay, they were
in a fair way of losing both their sovereign authority and their coun-
try together; for the mercenaries resented the injury to that degree,
that they forthwith revolted, and brought the Carthaginians into mi-
serable distresses.
2. The Carthaginians sent a trumpet to the revolters, to desire li-
berty to bury them that were slain in the battle. But Spondius, and
the rest of the captains of the revolters, with barbarous cruelty not
only denied that, but warned them upon their peril not to send any
more messengers to them on any account whatever; for if they did,
they should suffer the same punishment. And they then made au
order, that every Carthaginian they took prisoner should be put to
death in the same manner they before mentioned were, and that
their confederates who happened to be taken should have their hands
cut off, and so sent back to Carthage. This cruelty of Spondius was
the reason that Amilcar was forced to cast off his foriner lenity,
and retaliate the same cruelty upon the prisoners taken by the Car-
thaginians: and therefore, after he had first racked and tormented
the captives, he then cast them to the elephants, who trod and
trampled them under foot, so as they died most miserably.
3. The Hippacrineans and Uticans revolted from the Carthagini-
ans, and killed the Carthaginian garrison, and threw them over the
walls, and would not suffer them to be buried, though it was desired
by the Carthaginians.
Amilcar, sirnamed Barcas, performed many great and excellent
services to the advantage of his country, both against the Romans in
Sicily, and in Africa against the mercenaries and the Libyans, who
590
THE FRAGMENTS OF
revolted from the Carthaginians, and straightly besieged Carthage it-
self. For in both these wars he performed noble actions with great
valour and prudence, and therefore was highly honored by all the
citizens. But after the war was ended in Africa, he got together a
body of lewd fellows; and having enriched himself with the spoils
of his enemies, and by his actions gained a great interest and the
love of the people, he prevailed so far as to be created generalissima
of all Libya for a short time.
BOOK XXVI.
1. HANNIBAL was naturally of a warlike spirit, and trained up in
martial affairs from a child; and having been for many years toge-
ther in several expeditions with the greatest captains, he acquired
much experience in matters of war, so that being by nature prompt
in feats of arms, and improved likwise by daily exercise for a length
of time in the wars, he plumed himself upon it, in expectation of
doing great things.
2. Minutius, being overcome by Hannibal, it was evident by the
event, that he ruined all by his imprudence and unskilfulness; but
Fabius, by his valour and policy, preserved the commonwealth,
3. Dorimarchus, the provincial governor of the Ætolians, com-
mitted a most notorious act; for he robbed the famous temple of
Jupiter Dodonæus, and afterwards burnt the whole of it except the
treasury.
4. Hannibal's army having for a long time together glutted them-
selves with the riches and pleasures of Campania, became wholly de-
generated: for their luxury, soft beds, ointments, and all sorts of
delicate fare, lessened their courage, rendered them unfit to endure
liardships, and caused both their bodies and souls to sink into effe-
minacy.
5. When Hannibal had spoken much against the cruelty and
malice of the Romans, or rather their pride and arrogance, he put.
the sons of the senators to the sword, and their relations, which he
picked out from the rest of the captives, in this manner revenging
himself
the senate,
6. Hannibal being possessed with an implacable hatred against
the Romans, picked out from among the captives such as he thought
fittest for single combat, matched them one with another, and com-
upon
DIODORUS SICULUS.
591
manded them to fight, brothers with brothers, fathers with children,
and kinsmen with kinsmen. In this barbarous injunction, who can
refrain from abhorring the cruelty of the Carthaginians, and admir-
ing the piety, patience, and constancy of the Romans, in the midst
of their most grievous sufferings! For though they were tormented
with fire-goads and cruel stripes, yet none could be brought to lift
up their hands against their friends and relations, but all resolutely
died in the anguish of their sufferings, preserving themselves pure
and unspotted from the guilt of destroying one another.
7. When Gelon and Hiero, kings of Sicily, were dead in Syracuse,
and Hieronymus, who was very raw and young, succeeded, the king-
dom was but ill supplied with a governor; for, being flattered and
soothed up by his friends, he fell into luxury, debauchery, and ty,
rannical cruelty. For he ravished many men's wives, murdered his
friends that advised him, confiscated the goods of many without hear-
ing them, and gave their estates to the flattering informers; which
first stirred up the hatred of the people against him, then put them
upon plotting, which broke out at last, and ended in his destruction,
the common lot of tyrants in such cases.
8. When Hieronymus was killed, the Syracusans called a senate,
where it was decreed that all the kindred of the tyrant should be put
to death, both man and woman, and that none of his race or family
sliould be left alive.
9. When the dead body of Sempronius Gracchus was sent by Ma-
go to Hannibal, the soldiers, seeing it lie upon the ground, cried out
to have it cut in pieces, and to be hurled away, piece by piece, out
of slings. But Hannibal, having an object before his eyes to instruct
him in the uncertainty and inconstancy of fortune, and honouring
and admiring likewise the valour of the man, said it was an unwor-
thy thing to wreak a man's anger upon a speechless carcass; and
afterwards celebrated bis funeral with all the marks of honour and
respect, and civilly sent his bones and ashes in an urn to the Roman
camp.
9. When Syracuse was taken, all the citizens went forth to meet
Marcellus with olive-branches in their hands; and he told them he
would
spare all the lives of those that were freemen of the city, but
all their goods should be a prey for his soldiers.
10. The Carthaginians, after they had made an end of the Libye
war, severely punished the Micatanian Numidians, with their wives
and children; for they crucified all their captives, insomuch as their
posterity, ever since keeping in remembrance the cruelty executed
upon their forefathers, are most implacable enemies to the Cartha-
ginians.
592
THE FRAGMENTS OF
11. But the valour of Asdrubal is not to be passed over in silence.
For he was the son of Amilcar Barcas, the bravest captain of his age,
who in the Sicilian war was the only general that often overcame
the Romans; and having put a happy end to the civil war, was the
first that passed over with an army into Spain: and this Asdrubal ap-
proved himself a son not unworthy the honour and dignity of such a
father. For he was generally owned to be the best soldier, next to
Hannibal his brother, of all the Carthaginian commanders, and he
was therefore by Hannibal left general of all the forces in Spain,
where he fought many battles; and frequently freeing his army from
difficult straits, he often ran himself into great dangers: and being
at length forced up into the heart of the country, far from the sea,
on account of his valour he got together a mighty army, and at last
came unexpectedly into Italy.
12. Nabis, king of Lacedæmon, murdered Pelops, the son of Ly.
curgus the former king, when he was but a very child; for he was
afraid when he was grown up to man's estate, he would endeavour
to free and rescue his country, on account of his being of the blood-
royal. And for this reason he put 10 death the nobility of Sparta,
and hired the basest and most abject fellows, wherever he could
find them, to be his life-guard, and protect him in bis dominion.
So that robbers of temples, thieves, highwaymen, and condemned
persons, flocked from all places to Sparta. For, stepping into the
throne by wickedness, he had no expectation of preserving what he
had so wickedly got, but by the help of such profane and impious
fellows.
13. The Cretans fitted out seven ships for piracy, and robbed ma-
ny vessels at sea; whereupon the merchants being altogether dis-
couraged, the Rhodians looking upon it to belong to them to redress
this mischief, proclaimed war against the Cretans.
14. Pleminius was left governor of Locris by Scipio; and being a
profligate wretch, he forced open the treasury of Proserpina, and
carried away all the sacred valuables. The Locrians, enraged at the
fact, addressed themselves to the people of Rome, and entreated their
relief according to their usual good faith; whereupon, two military
tribunes seem much offended with the impious act committed, and
sharply rebuked Pleminius; not that they were really angry at what
was done, but because they themselves had no part of the money.--
But in a short time after, the goddess revenged their impiety. For this
was reported to be the most famous temple of all that were in Italy,
and in all ages before that time, through the care of the inhabitants,
had remained safe and unviolated. For at the time when Pyrrhus
transported his troops out of Sicily to Locris, and his soldiers were
DIODORUS SICULUS.
5.93
pressing upon him for pay, he was forced to make use of this sacred
treasure; but in returning back, they say, he suffered much, his
whole fleet being dispersed, shattered and torn to pieces by a fierce
and violent tempest, and therefore Pyrrhus bimself, out of a reli-
gious reverence for the goddess, endeavoured to pacify her, and re-
turned every penny of the money before he left the country. But
the tribunes before mentioned, pretending to abbor the sacrilege,
sided with the Locrians, and rebuking Pleminius for the crime,
threatened severely to punish him. The quarrel growing hutter and
hotter, it came at length to blows, and the tribunes threw Pleminius
upon the ground, and bit off his ears and pose, and sliced off both
his lips. But afterwards Pleminius caused the tribunes to be seized,
and whipped them to death with rods. In the mean time the se-
nate and people of Rome, through a religious awe of the gods, were
in great concern about this sacrilegious act; and upon this occasion
the enemies of Publius Scipio haviog got an opportunity to cast dirt
upon him, accused him as if he had been the adviser of Pleminius,
and that he had done all by bis order and command. Whereupon;
by a decree of the senate, two tribunes of the people and an ædile
were sent into Sicily, with orders to bring Scipio forthwith to Rome,
if they found that the sacrilege had been committed by his com-
mand or contrivance; but if they could not discover any such thing,
that then they should suffer hiin to transport the forces into Africa.
While they were upon their journey, Scipio sent for Pleminius, and
cast him into gaol; and every day with great care and diligence ex-
ercised the soldiers; of which the tribunes of the people so much
approved, that they highly commended him. But Pleminius being
brought bound to Rome, the senate forthwith committed him to pri-
son, and a short time after he died there in custody. His goods were
all devoted to Proserpina, and what they were deficient in making
satisfaction, was decreed by the senate to be supplied out of the
public treasury; and that it should be death for any soldier to with-
hold any goods or money whatsoever he might have in his hands,
which had been taken from the treasury of Proserpina's temple; and
further decreed, that the Locrians should be free.
15. Scipio, when he saw Syphax among other prisoners led up to
him in chains, at the first fell a-weeping, to consider the former
royal state and dignity of the person: resolving therefore to use his
fortunate success with moderation and humanity, commanded that
- Syphax should be freed from his chains, and gave up his tent to him,
for the reception of himself and the royal family; and retaining
him still as a prisoner, yet with all the liberty imaginable, often
courteously conversed with him, and entertained lim at his table.
VOL. 2. No. 47:
GGGG
594
THE FRAGMENTS OF
16. Sophonisba, who was the wife of Masinissa, and afterwards of
Syphax, but being taken prisoner was afterwards recovered by Ma-
sinissa, was a woman of admirable beauty, and by her cunning tricks
and charming devices could obtain whatever she pleased: and be-
ing confederated with the Carthaginians her countrymen, plied her
husband every day to fall off from the Romans; which when Sy-
phax was assured of, he acquainted Scipio with the design, and cau-
tioned him to have a special care of that woman.
All which being
confirmed by Lælius, Scipio commanded the lady to be brought to
him,'which Masinissa refusing, he threatened him severely; at which
Masinissa was so alarmed, that he ordered that some persons should
be sent from Scipio to fetch her away. But in the interim he went
into his tent, and forced Sophonisba to drink a cup of poison.
17. Scipio, through his clemency and compassion towards all the
prisoners he took, for ever after was secure of Masinissa, as a faith-
ful and constant confederate.
18. Hannibal called together his confederates, and told them that
he must of necessity pass over into Africa, and that he had provided
shipping for all those that were willing to go along with him; some
agreed to the thing; but as to those that chose rather to continue in
Italy, he compassed round with his army, and gave his soldiers liber-
ty to pick out as many of them as they pleased to be their captives;
and the rest, to the number of twenty thousand foot, and three thou-
sand horse he put to the sword, together with a vast number of
cattle.
19. Four thousand horse of those that went over to Masinissa af.
ter the rout of Syphax, deserted him and came in to Hannibal: but
he, enraged at them, compassed them round with his army, and shot
them all to death with darts and arrows, and divided their horses a-
mongst bis soldiers.
20. Scipio sent ambassadors to Carthage, but the common people
were on the point to have knocked them all on the head: but the so-
ber men of the city preserved them from that imminent danger, and
got them on ship-board, in order to send them back to Scipio's camp:
but those who were popular, and sided with the people of Carthage,
ordered the master of the vessel, that when the ship wherein the am-
bassadors were began to sail, he should throw all overboard, which he
performed accordingly.
However, the ambassadors swam to land and got safe to Scipio:
but the gods within a short time after, by a remarkable instance, evi-
denced their power to punish those who designed so wicked an act,
For it happened about that time the Carthaginian ambassadors were
returning from Rome, and were driven by a storm into the midst of
DIODORUS SICULUS.
595
the Roman fleet, and brought to Scipio; and when all cried out to
retaliate the wickedness of the others upon the heads of the ambas-
sadors that were then taken, Scipio utterly refused, saying – That
they themselves ought not to do that for which they blamed the Car-
thaginians. They were therefore all discharged, and came safe to
Carthage, and highly extolled the piety of the Romans.
21. Philip, king of Macedon*, persuaded Diccardus the Ætolian,
a daring man, to become a pirate, and to that end delivered to him
iwenty ships, with orders to exact tribute from the islands, and assist
the Cretans against Rhodes. Hereupon, according to his orders, he
robbed and spoiled the merchants; and wasting the islands, screwed
abundance of money from them.
22. Philip the Macedonian king t, had with him one Heraclides
a Tarentine, a wicked fellow, who in private was constantly buzzing
calumpies and false accusations against his best friends in his ear,
and incited him at length to that degree of impiety, that he put five
of the senators to death; so that the king's affairs declined, and be.
came worse and worse: for undertaking wars frivolously and unne-
cessarily, he was in danger of having lost his whole kingdom to the
Romans; for none of his friends durst speak freely to him or advise
him, all dreading his stubborn and haughty temper. He also made
war upon the Dardanians without the least provocation, and slew ten
thousand of them in battle,
23. This king Philip of Macedon, besides his rooted covetousness,
was so lifted up with his prosperous successes, that he put his friends
to death without any legal trial or just cause, and robbed and spoil-
ed the temples and sepulchres. In like manner Antiochus attempt-
ing to rob the temple of Jupiter in Ælymais 1, there received a just
overthrow, with the loss of his life and the total ruin of his army.
And both of them conceiting that their armies were invincible, lost
all in one battle, and were forced to receive laws imposed upon them
by others; and imputed their misfortunes to their own miscarriages,
and acknowledged themselves beholding to the humanity and gene-
rosity of the victors, for the pardon of their offences; and, according
to the desert of their own wicked actions, they saw their kingdoms,
through the anger of the gods, grievously plagued and afflicted. But
the Romans then, and ever after, beginning no wars but upon just
and honourable principles, and having a sacred regard to their leagues
and oaths, were always deservedly assisted by the gods in all their
counsels and designs.
* This was Philip the father of Perseus, the last king of Macedon.
+ The same Philip.
* In Persia.--See this story in 1 Mac. c. 6, v. 1, 2, 3,
596
THE FRAGMENTS OF
24. The same Philip being in extreme want of provision, conti-
nually wasted and spoiled the country of Attalus, up to the very
gates of Pergamena *. He ruined likewise the temples in the sub-
urbs of Pergamus, especially Nicephorus, which was exceeding rich:
besides several other sumptuous fabrics; for out of hatred to Atta-
lus, because he could not catch him, he vented his rage upon these
places.
25. Philip entering into Attica, encamped at Cynosarges, and af-
terwards burnt Acadamia, demolished the sepulchres, and robbed the
temples of the gods; and gratifying his rage and fury, as if he had
been only incensed against the people of Athens, and not against the
gods themselves, as he was evil spoken of before, so he was now
lated of all, and in a short time he was overtaken by the vengeance of
a
the gods, for he was nearly being ruined by his own imprudence, but
preserved by the clemen«y of the Romans.
26. Philip perceiving be was hated by almost all the Macedonians,
for his kindness to Heraclides, put him in prison. This Heraclides
was a Tarentine, a notorious wicked fellow, who from a mild and
gentle prince, changed Philip into a fierce and cruel tyrant, and for
which het was exceedingly bated by all the Grecians, as well as the
Macedonians.
27. The name and fame of Hannibal, was circulated over all the
world, and therefore in every city and town wherever he came, they
assembled in great multitudes to see him.
28. Ptolemy, king of Egypt, for some time reigned with great
commendatiou: but afterwards corrupted by parasites, lie began to
form a dislike towards his tutor Aristomenes, for the freedom he took
in telling him of his faults, who had all along managed every thing
with great prudence, and whose advice Ptolemy had before followed
as his father; but at length he sent him out of the world, by forcing
him to drink a cup of poison I. From that time increasing in fero-
city, and making use of tyrannical cruelty instead of regal authority,
he was hated by the Egyptians, and not far off from the loss of his
kingdom.
29. There is a temple not far from Chalcis, called Delium, where
a considerable number of Roman soldiers who were carelessly walk-
ing about to indulge their curiosity, were suddenly cut off by Antio-
chus $, in a time of peace, and before any war was proclaimed. For
which the king was greatly condemned and censured by the Grecians,
as occasioning a war with the Romans. And therefore Titus Fla-
• Or Pergamus, one of the seven churches of Asia.
+ Heraclides.
# Hemlock.
Antiochus Magnus
DIODORUS SICULUS.
597
minius, who was then in Corinth, called gods and men to witness,
that it was the king who first began the war.
30. Antiochus wintered at Demetrias *, where he laid aside all care
of warlike affairs, being then above fifty years of age. But he fell in
love with a young lady t, and married her, and set forth most magni-
ficent shews and public games; by which means he not only weak-
ened his own body, and effeminated his mind, but enfeebled the
courage of his army; and therefore his soldiers, who had passed the
winter in luxury and voluptuousness, when they were drawu out,
could neither endure hunger por thirst, nor any other hardship; but
some of them fell sick, and others straggled about here and there far
from their colours.
31. King Antiochus seeing the cities of Thessaly inclining to the
Romans, and the slow motion of the forces he expected out of Asia,
and the carelessness and sloth of the Ætolians, continually framing
and pretending one excuse after another, was in great anxiety, and
very uneasy; so that he was highly incensed at those who advised
bim to begin the war, at a time when he he was unprepared, and
had no confederates, but only the Ætolians. But he greatly admired
Hannibal for his prudence, who advised him to the contrary, and
therefore now reposed all his confidence in him; and whereas he
suspected him before, he made use of him as his most trusty friend
and counsellor.
32. Antiochus, wholly disheartened by his late rout, determined
to leave Europe, and in Asia to act only on the defensive. He there-
fore ordered all the Lysimachians to quit the city I, and pass over
into Asia: for which every body censured him as being guilty of a
very imprudent act, whereby, without an effort being made, he gave
up into the hands of the enemy a city so advantageously situated, as
might have proved a check to the passage of his troops out of Europe
into Asia, which afterwards proved to be the case; for Scipio seizing
on Lysimachia thus deserted, made great advantage of it in transport-
ing his army.
33. Marcus Fulvius the prætor , was deservedly punished for his
abuse of the Roman confederates in Liguria: for he disarmed the
Cinomani, (who received him as a friend and ally), although he could
find nothing against them; which matter reaching the ears of the
consul, he ordered him to restore the arms, and imposed a mulct
upon him.
34. King Antiochus being in want of money, and hearing there
• In Thessaly. + Of Chalcis, daughter of Cleoptolemus.
Lysimacija in the Hellespont.
Chief justice, or governor of a province; or chief commander in an arny.
598
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
a
were vast treasures of gold and silver, and other precious jewels, of-
ferings made in the temple of Jupiter Belus, in Ælymais, resolved
to rifle it. Coming therefore into the province of Ælymais, and
pretending that the inhabitants of that place had raised a war against
him, he robbed the temple, and got together a great sum of money;
but in a short time after, the gods executed vengeance upon him for
this sacrilege.
35. Philopemen, governor of Achaia, was both an excellent sol,
dier and a statesman, who all his life long was of a blameless conver-
sation, and had been frequently prætor. Having governed the com-
monwealth for forty years together, he much advanced the affairs of
Achaia, and was always affable and courteous even to the meanest
persons, and though for his virtue he was admired both by the Gre-
cians and Romans, yet he came to an unfortunate end: but by a di-
vine providence his unhappy exit was recompensed after his death
with divine honours; for besides what was publicly decreed by the
Achaians in honour of him, the citizens built a temple in remem-
brance of him, and appointed a bull for a yearly sacrifice to him, and
ordered young men to sing hymns in praise and commendation of
his noble acts.
36. Hanniba! was the most expert general, and performed the
greatest enterprises of any of the Carthaginians: he was never trou-
bled with any mutinies in his army, but by his prudent conduct kept
them in their duty and orderly discipline, although they differed as
much from one another in their several humours, as they did in their
various languages.
For whereas those of his own nation were accustomed upon very
slighit occasions to desert and fly over to the enemy, none ander him
dared ever attempt any such thing.
And though he marched from place to place with very great armies,
yet he never wanted either money or provisions. And that which is
most remarkable is, that the foreigners and mercenary soldiers loved
him as well, if not more, than his own countrymen did. Keeping
therefore his army in exact discipline, he performed the greater and
more renowned actions. For he made war on the most potent na-
tions, and wasted and harassed almost all Italy, for the space of se-
venteen years. He was so victorious in every battle he fought, and
made such terrible slaughters among them who were reputed the lords
of the world, that, on account of the prodigious multitudes that were
cut off by him, none durst look him in the face, or engage him in
battle.
He likewise laid many cities in ashes, which he had taken by storm,
and almost depopulated Italy, which was before full of people: all
DIODORUS SICULUS.
599
which, as they were accomplished by the strength and wealth of his
own fellow-citizens, so likewise by great numbers of foreign auxi-
liaries and confederates, those who by their unanimity were uncon-
querable, he overcame by policy and warlike stratagems; and so made
it evident, that as the soul governs the actions of the body, so a ge-
neral rules and directs all to a right end in an army
37. P. Scipio, when he was but very young, performed great and
wonderful things in Spain, beyond the expectations of all; and hav-
ing beaten the Carthaginians, delivered his country from imminent
perils, and compelled Hannibal, who was not to be overcome by
force of arms, to leave Italy without fighting a stroke; and at last,
by his valour and military conduct, overcame Hannibal in a great bat-
tle, and brought Carthage under the Roman yoke.
38. Leocritus, general of king Pharnaces, after he had often as-
saulted the city of Pius *, at length forced the mercenary soldiers
who defended the place, to surrender the town on the condition
That they should be safely conducted to what place soever they pleas-
ed to go: who, when they were marched out of the city, and brought
on their way according to the capitulation, Leocritus, (who was or-
dered by Pharnaces to put them all to the sword, because they had
formerly incensed him), against the faith of the articles, as they were
upon their march, fell upon them with darts, and slew them every
man.
39. Seleucus having raised a great army, and on his march to ass
sist Pharnaces, was now ready to pass mount Taurus, but calling to
mind the league the Romans had made with his father, by which it
was not lawful
40. But they who had committed such a notoriously wicked act,
and had murdered Demetrius t, escaped not divine justice. For those
who contrived the false accusations from Rome, within a short time
after incurred the king's displeasure, and were put to death. And as
for Philip himself, he was restless all the days of his life after, and
so much troubled in mind for the murder of so hopeful a son, that he
did not survive above two years, but pined away with extreme grief.
And Perseus, the author and contriver of the whole, being conquered
by the Romans, and flying to Samothracia, by reason of the wicked-
ness of the act perpetrated by him in the murder of his brother, could
find no sanctuary in that holy temple.
41. Tiberius Gracchus being sent lieutenant-general into Spain,
vigorously managed the war: for though he was very young, yet for
valour and prudence he excelled his equals in age, and gave such
* Rather Teios
+ The son of Philip, king of Macedon, the father of Perseus.
600
THE FRAGMENTS OF
evident signs of doing great things, that he was universally ad-
mired.
42. Paulus Æmilius, the consul and patron of the Macedonians,
was a man eminent for nobleness of birth, prudence, and comeliness
of person, and therefore all marks of honour were conferred on him
by the Romans his countrymen. Every one echoed forth his praise
while alive, and when dead his fame and renown, (together with the
profit and advantage procured by his valour to the commonwealth),
survived him.
43. Antiochus *, now recently advanced to the throne of Syria,
began a new course of life, unusual with kings and princes. For at
first, he would steal out of his palace unknown to any of his attend-
ants, and walk about the city, calling one or another to him where he
came as he thought fit. Then he took a pride in being familiar and
drinking with ordinary fellows, and mean and poor travellers and strap-
gers; and if perchance he discerned any young men met together to
celebrate a festival, he would presently join them, with his cup in his
hand, and become one of the choir; so that many were often so
startled with the strangeness of the thing, that they would run away;
and others through fear were struck with amazement, not able to say
a word. Lastly, he would lay aside the royal robes, and put on a
Roman gownt; and in imitation of the candidates at Rome, who
were soliciting preferment, would salute and hug every ordinary
fellow he met in the street, sometimes desiring they would make
choice of him to be ædile, and at other times to be a tribune of the
people.
Having at length obtained the office he desired, he would seat
himself upon an ivory tribunal, and, after the manner of the Romans,
hear causes; and was so earnest and diligent in the decision of con-
troversies, both between foreigners and citizens, that the most pru-
dent and serious among them knew not what to think of him, or at
what he aimed or designed; for some gave a favourable construc-
tion of it, others accounted it folly, and some no other than down-
sight madness.
44. After Eumenes was way-laid, and news came to Pergamus
that he was dead, Attalus, rather too rashly, married the queen: but
Eumenes returning a little time after, took no notice of it, but em-
braced his brother, and behaved with the same respect towards him
as he did before.
45. Cotys, king of Thrace, was valiant in war, and prudent in his
counsels, and highly to be commended for his care and diligence in
all other respects: besides all which he was of singular temperance
* The Tbird.
+ Called Tebeuna,
DIODORUS SÍCULUS.
601
and sobriety; and that which was most remarkable for his honour and
commendation was_That he was altogether free from the natural
vices of the Thracians.
46. Perseus having taken Chalestra by storm, put all that were
able to bear arms to the sword; and whereas five hundred of the
garrison soldiers threw themselves into a fort, and treated for their
lives, the king, upon their laying down their arms, gave them
quarter, and liberty to be gone. But when they were out of the
town, and on their march, according to the terms granted them,
the Macedonians, whether at their own instigation; or by order
from the king is uncertain, pursued them and slew them every
man.
45. Charopes the Epirot, and son of that Charopes who in the war
against Philip sent a guide to Titus Flaminius, to direct him through
the strait and difficult passes in the mountains, by which means the
Romans unexpectedly passing those places, possessed themselves of
the straits; this Charopes, I say, being bred up at Rome, upon the
account of the good services of his grandfather to the Romans, had
great interest with the most eminent persons of quality, and being a
fellow of most extraordinary malice and impudence, was continually
at Rome accusing and slandering the chiefest persons of quality at
Epirus, so that by terrifying all that were in a capacity to oppose
him, he became as it were absolute lord and inaster of all Epirus.
“ Cephalus * therefore, and others who were oppressed by his ca-
" lumnies, were forced to confederate with Perseus,” and to that
end seni messengers to him into Macedonia, and by them promised
to deliver Epirus into his hands.
48. King Eumenes being but of all hopes of taking Abdera,
which he then besieged, dealt underhandedly with one Python, a
chief man among the Abderites, who by his servants and freemen, to
the number of two hundred, guarded the strongest part of the city:
This man; being corrupted by bribes, and won by fair promises, let
him in at the gates, and so Eumenes gained the city: But Python,
receiving but a poor and mean reward for his treason, and seeing be-
fore his eyes the utter ruin and destruction of his country, repented
of what he had done, and pined away with grief.
49. When an opportunity was put into the hands of Perseus to
cut off the whole army, he lvitered not far off, i bou: Diuin in Mace-
donia, careless and negligent in the very nick of time, wherein only
by a shout and sound of trumpet he might have surprised and taken
all the forces of the elemy, who were then shut up and enclosed
within steep and esaggy rocks; and, as the king was negligent, so
• This is omitted in the Greek,
Vol. 2, No. 47.
HHHH
602
TIIE FRAGMENTS OF
the Macedonian guards that were placed upon the tops of the moun-
tains were in like manner as careless in their watch at their several
posts.
50. Perseus, looking upon all to be lost, and heing altogether dis-
couraged, cmmanded Nico, his lord-treasurer, to throw all the mo-
Hey and treasure at Phocis* into the sea.
He sent away likewise Andronicus, the squire of his body, to Thes-
salonica, with orders forthwith to burn his whole fleet; who came
accordingly to Thessalonica, but with a design to act more prudently;
for he forbore to execute his orders, hoping, by preserving the ship-
ping, to ingratiate himself with the Romans.
51. Perseus in the mean time pulling down all the golden statues
at Diont, ordered all the inhabitants, with their wives and children,
to reniove along with him to Pydnaf, than which (a man may justly
say) nothing was niore imprudently done by Perseus during this war.
52. At this time the Cydoniates committed a most impious act,
against all the laws and customs of Greece; for, being received by
the Apolloniats || into the city as friends, in time of peace, they seized
upon the place, and put all the men to the sword, and divided their
wives and children among themselves, and took possession of the
whole territory.
53. King Antiochus, when he had routed the Egyptians, and might
have cut them off every man, rode about and called out to his mea
to forbear killing them, but rather to take them prisoners; from
which counsel he reaped considerable advantage in a short time; for,
a
upon the account of his humanity, he presently gained Pelusium, and
not long after all Egypt,
54. But we cannot (observing the method we have proposed to
ourselves) pass by the cowardice of Ptolemy; for who can but judge
him of a most effeminate spirit who would, without a stroke struck,
give up so great and rich a kingdom, when there was not the least
danger at hand, and the enemy at so great a distance from him:
which effeminacy, if it had been natural, would perhaps have been
more excusable; but, it being apparent from the things he after-
wards did that he was a prince inferior to none for industry and
resolution, this sloth must needs be imputed to his education under
the cunuch Eulaius, who, breeding him up from his childhood is
pleasures, and womanish recreations, cmasculated the vigour of his
spirit.
• Phocion, or Phocus, a town in Thessals. + In Thessaly. * In Macedonia.
201Ş The inhabitants of Cydonia, au island near Lesbos.
# Apollonia, a city in Avig, upon the sea-coasts; another in Thrace. This Apullonia
is in Cretc.
I
DIODORUS SICULUS.
603
55. King Antiochus seemed to all to be a prudent and active
prince, and worthy of the kingdom in every respect, excepting that
one miscarriage at Pelusium.
56. When Perseus understood that a choice body of Gauls had
passed the river Ister, in order to assist him, he greatly rejoiced, and
sent messengers into Mædica to hasten their march with all speed.
But the general of the Gauls demanded present pay according to the
agreement, to the value of about five hundred talents, which Perseus
through his natural covetousness, refusing to pay, though he had
before promised it, the Gauls returned back into their own country.
57. Paulus Æinilius, as soon as he had received the legions, called
them together, and put life and spirit into the hearts of his soldiers;
for he was now above sixty years of age, and a man of great repute and
authority among the Romans, for his noble services to the state:
and he had invented many new and subtile stratagems in that war, and
by his valour and policy had overcome the Macedonians.
58. Perseus desirous to have many to go along with him, when he
fled by sea, brought out to them money and rich furniture, to the
value of sixty talents, to take and carry away with them. Afterwards,
when he arrived at Galepsus, he told his companions that some of
those things that he had suffered them to carry away, were formerly
the goods of Alexander the Great, and desired they would forthwith
restore them to him, and he would repay them to the value in money;
to which all readily consented, and he received every thing back again,
but never made good his promise.
59. Alexander was of a far different temper from Perseus, for the
former was of a brave and noble spirit, and gained an empire like to
the greatness of his mind. On the contrary, the other through his
sordid covetousness, lost the assistance of the Gauls, and by such
like gross miscarriages, utterly ruined an antient flourishing king
dom.
60. After the flight of Perseus, Lucius Æmilius began to seek for
his younger son Publius Africanus, who was the natural son of
Æmilius, but the adopted son of Scipio, who overcame Hannibal.
At that time he was a youth about seventeen years of
age,
and under
the care' and tutorage of his father, in that great and perilous war,
so that afterwards he became as famous a general as his father.
Being at length found out, and brought safe into the camp, the
consul was at rest, and freed from that anxiety of mind he laboured
under; for he loved him with more than a paternal affection,
61. Æmilius, by his civil and courteous usage of Perseus, entor-
taining him at his table, and receiviog him into all public councils,
• A province of Thrace peur Macedonia,
Dear
604
THE FRAGMENTS OF
gave evident demonstrations, that as he was a terror to bis enemies
in the open field, so be was mild and merciful to them that were
suhdyed: which course being followed by others, Rome became
inistress of the world, without envy, and so continued as long as it
made use of such noble generals.
62. For in former times when the Romans had overcome those
two potent kings Antiochus and Philip, they not only forbore inflict-
ing punishment, but restored them to their kingdoms, and took them
into the number of their allies. And in these later times, after
many battles fought with Perseus, and overcoming many great ha-
zards and difficulties, and after they had possessed themselves of all
Macedonia, beyond all men's hopes and expectations, they proclaimed
liberty to all the cities; wbich favour neither the Macedonians nor
any body else could ever expect should have been granted by the
Romans, because they were very conscious to themselves how much
they had injured the Roman state. For they judged (and that most
justly) that there was no room left for mercy, being that they had
before been pardoned former wrongs and injuries.
But the senate forgot all that was past, and carried themselves
towards them with great clemency and generosity. For they suffered
Perseus to go at large, only with a keeper, a punishment less than
his demerit, who, against the faith of his league, and the obligation
of his kindred and alliance to the Romans, had most unjustly made
war upon them; and they set free all the people of Macedonia,
(whom by the law of arms they might have made perpetual slaves),
and with that readiness and nobleness of mind, beyond all that the
conquered themselves could have desired. The Illyrians, likewise,
whom they had subdued, they suffered to use their own laws; for
they made it more their conceru to do what became the majesty and
grandeur of the Romans, in carrying it nobly towards others, without
pride and insolence in prosperity, than that they looked upon the
barbarians any way worthy of such favour.
63. The senate decreed the Macedonians and Illyrians to be free,
and that they should pay but half of that tribute to the Romans which
they paid to their own kings.
64. Perseus thus thrown into the gaol, miserably ended his days in
such sad and uncomfortable circumstances.
The rest is to be found in the Fragments, Book 31, in Photius's
Bibliotheca, at the end of Diodorus Siculus, Fragment 2.
65. The general of the Gauls being returned trom the pursuit of
the enemy, gathered the captives together, and committed a most
horrid piece of wickedness; for he picked out the choicest and
strongest young men amongst them, and sacrificed them to the gods,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
605
as if the immortal deities are pleased with such sacrifices. The rest
he shot to death with darts, most of whom, of antient acquaintance,
he well knew; however, former friendship was no argument to spare
a man of them. Thus are barbarians puffed up with prosperous
successes,
66. Eumenes, far different from Perseus, not only paid his soldiers
what was their due pay, but bestowed on them several gifts besides,
with promises of more afterwards, whereby he gained all their
hearts, and held them fast to his interest. But Perseus, when twenty
thousand Gauls were near at hand ready to assist him, through his
niggardliness refused their aid and assistance; but Eumenes, though
he was nothing near so rich as the other, obliged his mercenaries and
all others that might be helpful to him by his bounty and liberality.
And therefore Perseus, sinking below the generosity of a king, and
enslaving himself to a covetous and sordid parsimony, lived to see
all the wealth he had heaped up together, with his whole kingdom,
fall into the hands of the conqueror. But the other, preferring
victory before any thing else, not only freed his own kingdom from
the imminent dangers it laboured under, but brought the whole na-
tion of the Gauls into subjection.
67. Some of the counsels and acts of Antiochus were both princely
and admirable, others so poor and mean, that they were justly des-
pised and ridiculed. For when he celebrated public games, he first
acted contrary to the manner and practice of all other kings; for they,
when they were strengthening themselves all they could with men
and money, it was their greatest care to keep all private and secret,
out of fear of the Roman greatness: but he, on the contrary, invited
to his sports the most eminent persons from all parts of the world,
and most magnificently adorned every part of his palace; and thus
bringing together all the riches of his kingdom into one place to be
exposed, as it were, upon a stage, to the view of all, he occasioned
every thing he did to be known and blazed abroad.
68. And in the state, grandeur, and variety of those famous games,
Antiochus far excelled all the princes that ever were before him:
but that part which he himself acted in those may-games, was very
despicable and contemptible. For he would ride up and down
among all that solemn assembly upon a little nag, meanly accoutred,
bidding some go on, others to stop, and commanding this and that,
as best pleased his own fancy; so that if his diadem had been off,
none would have believed him to have been a king, who scarce
represented the garb and mien of a common officer*. All the time
of the public entertainment he stood at the door, and introduced
A lictor,
606
THE FRAGMENTS OF
some, and ordered others to sit down, and ushered in the servants
that brought in the dishes. Sometimes, also, he would go to some
one of the guests, and sit down by him, and at other times lay him-
self along on the floor, and then would start up on a sudden, and hop
up and down, sometimes placing dishes of meat upon the table, and
other times washing the drinking cups, and diligently observing every
thing round the room, would pledge those that drank to him standing,
sporting and jesting with those that were merrily disposed. When
it drew towards evening, and most were gone, he was wrapt up in
linen, and brought in by the anticks, and laid upon the ground; and
presently after (as if he were called) he started up on a sudden naked,
and in a jocund humour danced in most ridiculous gestures with the
mimics and stage-players; insomuch as all being put out of counte-
nance through shame withdrew and left the place. Every one indeed
that came to the solemnity, as often as they cast their eyes upon the
sumptuous furniture, and the stately and magnificent order and dis-
posal of the whole, in the celebration of the sports and games,
admired both the king and the riches of his kingdom; but when they
looked upon the king himself, and his irregular actions, they scarce
believed it was possible that so many vices and virtues could be
found to concentre in one and the same person.
69. When the solemnity was ended, Tiberius Gracchus arrived as
an ainbassador sent to inspect the affairs of Syria, whom the king
received and entertained with so much kindness and civility, that
Gracchus did not in the least suspect any ill designs in the king, nor
discerned that he took any thing amiss in relation to what was done
in Egypt. But Antiochus in truth was far from such a temper, but
was altogether a mortal enemy to the Romans,
70. Ptolemy being driven out of his kingdom, and on his journey
to Rome by land, it was made known to Demetrius, the son of
Seleucus, who, surprised with his misfortune, gave an instance of his
royal and generous disposition. For forth with, attended with his
servants, and taking with him a royal robe, a diadem, and a horse
adorned with trappings of gold, he went to meet Ptolemy, and came
up to him at the twenty-sixth stone* distant from the city, whom
(after he had courteously embraced him) he advised to put on the
royal robes, and to make use of the other ensigns of royalty, and so
enter into the city as became the dignity of his person, lest he should
be despised: Ptolemy was much taken with him for his extraordinary
kindness, but was so far from accepting what was offered, that he
entreated Demetrius he might rather stop, and take up his abode at
some small village in the way.
Every stone was a mile: two hundred furlongs.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
607
71 Antipater having breathed out his last in the midst of these
torments, they bring Asclepiades, governor of the city, crying out
that Timotheus was the contriver of the whole scene of this mischief,
and that it was through his persuasions that the young man so im-
piously and unjustly put his brother to death. Hereupon when all
the great men and commanders began to smell out the whole design
and contrivance, and to commiserate the sad condition of those that
suffered such cruel torments, Timotheus was in a great fright, and
- loosed the rest that were condemned from their torments, and after-,
wards put them privately to death.
72. Philopater, surnamed Ariarathes, being now come to the
crown after the death of his father, the first thing he did was the ce-
lebrating his father's funeral in great pomp and state; afterwards,
caressing his friends, great officers, and commanders, and the rest of
his subjects, he gained the good will of all sorts.
73. When Ariarathes had restored Mithrobuzanes to his father's
kingdom, Artaxias king of Armenia, still infected with his old vice
of covetousness, sent an ambassador to Ariarathes to solicit him to
join with him, and kill one of the brothers that were then in his
hands, and divide Sophene* between them. But Ariarathes greatly
abhorred such a piece of cruelty and treachery, and smartly rebuked
the ambassadors, and wrote a letter to Artaxias, wherein he advised
him to forbear suche wicked practices; which carriage of Ariarathes
much advanced his fame and reputation; and Mithrobuzanes, through
the faithfulness and integrity of him to whom he fled for shelter, re-
gained his father's kingdom.
74. Lucius Æmilius, who conquered Perseus, and was a consul.
and censor, and tbe bravest man of his age of all the Romans, died
about this time; whose death, when it was generally known, espe-
cially at the time of his funeral, caused such a general sorrow and
lamentation, that not only artificers and other sorts of common people
flocked together, but the senate and all the magistrates of the city
prepared every thing that was necessary for the gracing of his funeral.
And all persons of the free towns and cities bordering upon Rome,
that could possibly attend at the day, came in flocking together, botha
to see and honour the solemnity,
75. Such as Æmilius was reported for his wealth while he lived,
such he appeared to be when he was dead. For though he was the
only person in his time that enriched the treasury at Rome with
plenty of gold, brought with him out of Spain, and had the command
of all the riches of Macedonia, and was clothed with absolute
* A country in Asia, burdering upon the Greater Armenia.
608
THE FRAGMENTS OF
authority in all those places, yet he was so far from converting any
thing to his private use, that when his two adopted sons, after his
death, possessed themselves of his estate, out of all his goods theş
were not able to raise so much as would be sufficient to render to his
wife her just dowry, without selling some of his lands; and therefore
some have preferred him for his abstemiousness and freedom from
covetousness before Aristides and Epaminondas, who tvere so famous
and eminent among the Grecians upon that account: for they only
refused money that was offered them by such as thereby designed and
aimed at their own advantage; but this man meddled not with any
thing, where he had possession of all, and enight have taken to his use
as much as he pleased.
And if any look upon this as a thing incredible, let such consider
that they must not judge of the sobriety and moderation of the an-
tient Romans by the griping covetousness of those at this day: for
in truth in this our age the Romans exceed all other nations in their
insatiableness after riches. But, since we now revive the memory of
so excellent a person, we shall briefly say something of Scipio, his
son, he who afterwards razed Numantia, lest ignorance of his care
and diligence in the study of the most excellent and commendable
arts and sciences should occasion incredulity that he should attain to
such an eminency in all virtuous qualifications. Publius Scipio, there-
fore, was the natural son of Lucius Æmilius, who conquered Perseus,
as we have before declared; but was the adopted son of Scipio, who
conquered Hannibal and the Carthaginians, and so by adoption Scipio
Africanus, the most eminent of all the Romans that ever were before
him, was his grandfather.
Scipio thus nobly descended, and taken into so famous a family,
approved himself not the least unworthy the glory and renown of his
ancestors. For he was brought up and instructed from his childhood
in the learring of the Greeks; and, when he was eighteen years of
age, applied himself to the study of philosophy, under the inspection
of Polybius of Megalopolis, the historian, his tutor, with whom he
continued a considerable time; and, increasing in all manner of vir-
tue, he not only excelled his equals in years, but those far older than
himself, in sobriety, affability, generosity, and all other virtuous qua-
lifications. But before he began to study philosophy, it was every
body's opinion that he was but dull and blockish, and very unworthy
to be heir to so great a family. In the first place be made it his chief
care and business to be sober, as conducing much to the commenda-
tion of his youthful age, which was then, at his years, a very difficult
task. For the youth at that time were hurried away by filthy lusts,
and an excess of intemperance; with an impetuous current, some to
DIODORUS SICULUS.
609
sodomy, others to whores, gluttony, drunkenness, revellings, and
such like luxurious and voluptuous courses: for the Romans pro-
sently learnt the effeminate manners of the Greeks in this kind
through the long continuance of the Persian war; and besides, hav-
ing gained abundance of wealth, they were plentifully supplied with
fuel to feed their luxury.
76. But Scipio followed another course of life, and combating
with all his natural corrupt lusts, as with so many wild beasts, with-
in the
space
of five
years
attained to a fixed and habitual state of so-
briety and temperance. To which all giving their testimony, and
generally crying him up upon that account, he then put forth him-
self in acts of bounty, generosity, and liberality, in distributing his
money for the good of others : for wbich sort of virtue he had an ex-
ample in his father Æmilius, under whose instruction he was long
bred up, and now exhibited, as it were, a perfect copy of his virtue:
but fortune likewise presented him an eminent occasion of express-
ing his liberality. For when Æmilia the wife of the great Scipio, the
sister of Æmilius who conquered Perseus, died, and left a grcat
estate behind her, of which Scipio was heir; he first gave an in:
stance of his generous disposition upon this occasion. For his mo-
ther Papiria being cast off long before the death of his father, had
lived a considerable time separate from her husband, in a far mean-
er condition than became one of her noble birth: but Æmilia the
mother of his adopted father leaving behind her a great inheritance,
besides other riches, had a rich robe and woman's gown, together
with a splendid retinue of household servants, as being the wife of
the great Scipio, and so sharer with him in his estate and fortune:
all these Scipio nobly bestowed upon his mother, in which stately
habit, when she appeared in public amongst the ladies of quality,
the bounty and generosity of the young man, and his piety towards
his mother, were highly applauded, first among the women, and then
among all companies and societies of men, throughout the whole
city. This piece of liberality was looked upon by the whole city,
not only as a thing commendable, but even wonderful, especially
at Rome, in which city none easily part with any thing they have
to another. After this there being a great sum of money owing to
the daughters of the great Scipiu, as their dowries*; and whereas
by the Roman laws the party that was to pay such portions, had li-
berty to pay them in three years time, by a certain proportion every
year, he paid the whole down at once. Afterwards, when his natural
,
father Æmilius was dead, and he and his brother Fabius were consti-
tuted joint heirs of his estate, Scipio did another honourable act,
+ Portions.
Vol. 2. No. 48.
III
a
610
THE FRAGMENTS OF
well worthy to be remembered. For when he knew that bis brother
had far less than himself, he freely bestowed upon him his own
share of the inheritance, amounting to above sixty talents, and sa
made his brother as rich as himself: which act being generally cried
up, he did that which was further remarkable; for when Fabius was
resolved to exhibit single combats by gladiators at the funeral of his
father, yet was not well able to bear the great charge it would re-
quire, Scipio bore half of the cost and expense out of his own purse.
A little time after, when his mother died, he was so far from taking
again what he had before bestowed upon her, that he gave not only
them, but all the rest of his mother's inheritance to his sisters, al-
though no part of her estate by the laws belonged to them. Thus
Scipio being cried up by the unanimous consent of all persons, for
his generosity, he grew every day more and more famous and re-
nowned, which he attained unto, not so much by greatness of ex-
pense, as by choice of fit opportunities to express his kindnesses,
and an art of conferring his gifts and benefits upon proper objects.
He gained likewise a just reputation for his chastity without any
cost or charge, but only by his moderation and sobriety, from
whence likewise he reaped the great benefit of health and strength of
body, and following this course during his life, he enjoyed a reward
of his temperance with great pleasure and delight. And as for all
the parts of valour, which is a virtue absolutely necessary every
where, especially among the Romans, he was not in the least want-
ing or negligent, in that respect fortune affordiog bim a special op-
portunity to approve himself; for the Macedonian kings being much
given to bunting, Scipio by far surpassed them all.
77. After the Romans bad conquered Perscus, (or rather Charopes),
they put some of them to death who bad sided with the Macedonians,
and others they sent to Rome. But Charopes being cloathed with
an absolute power and authority in Epirus, because he seemed to be
a great favourer of the Romans, at first dealt with the Epirots some-
thing geutly and mildly, but afterwards growing every day more
proud and insolent, he turned every thing in Epirus upside down.
For by false accusations against the richest men, he banished some,
put others to death, and confiscated their goods: and he not only
squeezed money from men, but from women, by the help of his mo-
ther Philota; who was more than a woman in cruelty and wicked-
ness. Many likewise, who were accused to be plotting against the
Romans, he gave up into the hauds of the people, who were all
condemned to die.
78. Orophernes having deposed his brother Ariarathes, when le
ought to have managed his affairs with the greatest prudence imagi-
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
611
nable, and ingratiated himself into the hearts of his people by kind
ness and acts of grace and favour, intended no such matter: but be-
ing wholly intent on scraping up money together, he wickedly put
many to death; he gave to Timotheus fifty, and king Demetrius se-
venty talents, and promised in a short time to pay other four hundred
talents; and besides, to add to them, six hundred more: at which, dis-
cerning that the Cappadocians were greatly incensed, he began to
rob and spoil every body, and confiscate the goods of the nobility;
and having treasured up a vast sum of money, he intrusted four
hundred talents with the Pirenians, to serve bim at a turn and
change of fortune, which were afterwards faithfully repaid him.
79. Ptolemy the elder, having presently by the multitude of his
forces penned up his brother*, by a close sieget, and reduced thein
to the utmost extremity, yet pardoned him; induced thereunto, both
by his natural clemency, and the nearness of relations, and his awe
and fear of the Romans: and he did not only pardon him, but en-
tered into a league with him, according to which, he was to be con-
tent as the younger brother with Cyrene, and with a certain propor-
tion of wheat every year. And thus a war between brothers, which
had wholly alienated their affections one from the other, and was con-
tinued to the utmost hazard of them both, was on a sudden ended
upon moderate terms and conditions.
80. When Orophernes discerned that his affairs declined much to
the worse, he resolved to satisfy his mercenary soldiers as soon as he
could, lest they should mutiny for want of their pay: but being at
present straitened through scarcity of money, he was necessitated
to rifle Jupiter's temple, situated at the foot of Mount Ariadne,
which before had been ever preserved sacred and inviolable, and by
this means he paid his soldiers all their arrears.
81. Prusias king of Bithynia, being altogether disappointed in his
design of taking Attalus, destroyed and laid waste the sacred grove
called Nicephorius, which lay under the walls of the cityi, and ri-
Aed the temple itself, and took away the statues, and the images of
the gods; and among the rest, the famous statue of Æsculapius,
said to be one of the curious pieces of Phipomachus, and robbed
the place of all its sacred and consecrated goods and treasure. For
which sacrilege, the gods in a short time after, inflicted upon him
deserved punishment: for most of his land-army perished by the
bloody flus; and the like calamity happened to his naval forces, for
by a sudden storm in the Propontis, most of his ships with their sol.
diers and rowers together were sunk; and some few were cast upon
* Evergetes,
+ Io the city, Pergawes.
612
THE FRAGMENTS OF
the land, and shipwrecked. And these were the first punishments
inflicted upon Prusias for his impiety.
82. The Cretans arriving at Siphnus, besieged the city, and the
inhabitants partly through fear, and partly through feigned and de-
ceitful promises admitted them into the city; the Cretans first pro-
mising that none of the inhabitants should receive the least preju-
dice; but when they were entered, according to the usual treachery
and perfidiousness of the Cretans, they both carried them all away
captives, and rifled and robbed all the temples of the gods; and so
loaded with spoil, hoisted up sail, and made back for Crete. But
in a short time after, they paid dear for this treachery, the gods pre-
sently executing vengeance upon them for their impiety; for out of
fear of some enemies that overpowered them in shipping, they were
forced to loose out of harbour in the night, and most of their ships
by a sudden storm were sunk at sea, and others were cast upon land,
and dashed in pieces upon the rocks, where all in them miserably
perished; some few that consented not to this perfidious dealing es-
caped.
83. Philip the son of Amyntas, coming to a kingdom then sub-
ject and tributary to the Illyrians by his arms and skill in martial af-
fairs, restored it to its former liberty, and by his mild and gentle
usage of those he subdued, he enlarged his kingdom above any that
was in Europe. For having beaten the Athenians in a great battle,
(who contended with him for the principality of Greece), he buried
all their dead that fell in the fight, whom they had left in the open
field, and sent back above two thousavd prisoners to their own
country, without any redemption: so that they who before had con-
tended with him, hearing of his generous usage of their fellow citi-
zens, voluntarily yielded up to him the sovereignty of Greece; and
so what he could not accomplish by so many battles and hazards,
merely by his mildness and humanity he obtained with the free and
unanimous consent of his enemies. But what he had got, he after-
wards maintained, by striking a fear and terror into the hearts of his
enemies, for he razed the populous city of Olynthus to the ground.
In the same mavner his son Alexander, by the ruin of Thebes, de-
terred the Lacedæmonians and Athenians (who were plotting against
him) from their designed revolt. And his civil and generous usage
of the prisoners in the Persian war, was such, that he gained the
hearts of the Asiatics, not so much by his valour, as his mildness
and humanity. But in later times, the Romans thirsting after a uni-
versal monarchy, in a great measure obtained their ends, by the
force of their arms, but their clemency toward such as they had con-
quered, added much to the increase and enlargement of their con-
DIODORUS SICULUS
613
quests. For they were so far from cruelty, or being rigorous in ex-
ecuting punishment upon those they had subdued, that they seemed
to carry it towards them rather as friends than as enemies. For
when the conquered expected the utmost severity of revenge from
the conquerors, they left no room for any others to exceed them in
humanity, and clemency: for some they made free of the city, with
others they joined in affivity by marriages, others they set free to
govern according to their own laws; and to sum up all, none un-
derwent any severity by being conquered, further than what was fit.
And therefore, upon the account of this extraordinary clemency,
kings, cities, and countries, generally sheltered themselves under
the protection of the Romans. But when they were lords almost of
the whole world, then they strengthened and confirmed themselves
in their dominions, by severity, and razing of towns and cities, to
strike a terror into their enemies. For they utterly destroyed Corinth
in Achaia, Carthage in Africa, Numantia in Spain, and rooted up
the kingdom of Macedonia, in the ruin of Perseus, and became a
terror to many
84. The Romans make it their great care, that the wars they be-
gin, he upon just grounds, and therefore never resolve upon any
thing rashly, or inconsiderately.
85. Publius Scipio, (who was afterwards sirnamed Africanus,
and was then a tribune*, when almost all the rest of the Romans
made light of their terms and articles made with their enemies,
though confirmed by their solemn oaths), most religiously observed
and kept his promises with the besieged, and used them with all hu-
manity and clemency when they fell into his hands. His faith and
integrity therefore being noised abroad all over Africa, none surren-
dered up themselves into the hands of the Romans, unless Scipio
joined in signing of the articles.
86. When there were only three Romans killed in the skirmish,
and were left lying upon the ground unburied, all were very much
troubled and concerned at it. But Scipio with the consent of the
consul wrote a letter to Asdrubal, to desire him to bury those Romans :
who presently ordered the thing to be done; and when all was per-
formed sent their ashes to the consul, which added much to the ho-
nour of Scipio, as one whose authority was prevalent even with the
enemies themselves,
87. The counterfeit Philip, having beaten the Romans in a great
battle, became proud, cruel, and tyrannical; there was not a wealthy
person which he put not most wickedly to death, upon false ac-
cusations: he spared not his own intimate friends, but despatched
• Colonel.
a
614
THE FRAGMENTS OF
many of them out of the way; for he was naturally fierce and cruel,
proud and baughty in all his familiar intercourses, and at last deeply
engaged in covetousness, and all manner of vice.
&8. The Romans had such a kindness for Publius Scipio, that
though neither liis age nor the laws did qualify him, yet they endea-
voured with all their might to elect him consul.
89. Calphurnius the consul, after he had some towns delivered up
to bim upon articles, contrary to the terms agreed upon, and against
his faith and engagements, razed them to the ground, and therefore
in all his designs and contrivances afterwards, he was disappointed
as a faithless and treacherous person, as if some deity set himself
against him; for he attempted many things, but was never able to
effect any thing.
90. King Prusias being both of an ugly visage, and a mean and
etfeminate presence, was mortaliy hated by the Bithynians.
91. After the taking of Carthage, Scipio gave liberty to the Sici-
lian ambassadors to search among the spoils, and ordered every one
to carry back into their several cities such things as had formerly
been taken away from them by the Carthaginians: upon which were
found many statues and pictures of famous men, of exquisite work-
manship, besides many things devoted and consecrated to the gods,
some of silver and others of gold; among wbich, was the famous
Phalarian bull of Agrigentum, made by Perillus, for the tyrant
Phalaris, who caused the artificer himself to make the first experi-
ment of his own ari, by executing that sort of punishment upon
him, which he had invented for the torturing of others.
9.2. Io our time Caius Julius Cæsar, sirnamed for the greatness
of his actions Divus*, when almost a hundred years after he saw the
ruins and rubbish of Corinth, was so compassionately affected, and
withal desirous to make himself glorious, that he put forth himself
to the utmost to rebuild the city. And therefore it is but just that
the humanity and clemency that was eminent in this man, should
be allowed its just and due praises, and that his virtue should be re-
corded in history, for an everlasting remembrance to his eternal
praise and honour. For when his ancestors were extreme in their
severity against this city, he rectified their excesses by his own leni-
ty and moderation, preferring mercy before cruelty. Besides, he
far excelled all that were ever before him in the greatness of his ac-
tions, and upon the account of his virtuous qualifications, was sir-
named Divus. To conclude, this man was the most famous and re-
nowned for eminency of birth, fluency of tongue, the art of war,
and contempt of riches, of any whatsoever that was in his age.
* Divine.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
615
93. Viriathus of Lusitania, the captain of the robbers, was just
and exact in distributing the spoil, and those who had valiantly be-
haved themselves in battle, he would liberally reward according to
their several merits, and he never converted any of the public mo-
nies to his own private use, and therefore the Lusitanians never
shrunk or drew back from any bazardous undertaking, when he
commanded them, and was their leader, honouring him as the com-
mon benefactor and saviour of their country.
94. Plautius the Roman prætor greatly misgoverned his province,
being therefore condemned by the people, because he had disho-
noured his government, he fled from Rome.
95. In Syria, king Alexander, being far unfit for so high a sta-
tion, by reason of his sloth and meanness of spirit, gave up the
goveroment of Antioch to Hierax and Diodotus*.
96. The kingdom of Syriat, being now brought low, and De-
metrius being only the surviving branch of the royal stock, believe
ing himself to be out of all danger, disregarded the deportment of
the former kings, who studied to ingratiate themselves into the good
opinion of their people, by their affable and courteous behaviour:
but he growing every day more and more unsufferable, fell at length
to downright cruelty, and all sorts of heinous enormities. The
cause of all which is not only to be attributed to his own corrupt dis-
position, but to one of his friends, who had the management of all
the affairs of the kingdom: for being a wicked and rash fellow, he
incited by his flattery, the young man to all manner of wickedness.
At first therefore, he put to death all that had sided against him in
the war, with unusual sorts of punishments. Afterwards, when the
Antiochians taunted and jeered at him, as they were wont to do,
he got together a company of mercenary soldiers against them, and
commanded that they should be disarmed, but the Antiochians refus-
ing to deliver them; some he killed as they fell into his hands,
others he murdered in their own houses, together with their wives
and children; upon which a great uproar being raised in the city,
he burnt down most of the town to the ground, and many that
were accused to be heads of this commotion, were put to death, and
their estates confiscated, and brought into the king's exchequer!
and therefore many of the citizens, both out of fear and hatred to
Demetrius, fed out of the city and wandered up and down all Sy:
ria, watching for a fit time and opportunity to be revenged. In the
mean time Demetrius, hated of every body, raged notwithstanding
in slaughters, banishments, and confiscations, far exceeding his ta-
* Ush. An. 470, before Christ, 140.
1 In the Greek it 13 Egypt, but mistaken I conceive.
616
THE FRAGMENTS OF
ther in cruelty: for he was far from royal clemency and kindness;
but exercising a tyrannical and arbitrary power, oppressed his sub-
jects with most grievous and unsufferable calamities. Insomuch as
the kings of this family, for their oppressions, were liated by all,
those of the other*, were as much beloved for their moderation and
clemency; so that through the mutual plots and circumventing
contrivances of the heads of both these families, one against ano-
ther, Syria was always full of stirs and commotions: and the com-
mon people themselves, through the flattery and fair promises of
those kings that sought to succeed the other, were so led aside, as
that they still delighted in change.
97. The Aradianst growing high crested and insolent, abused the
Maratheniant ambassadors, who crying out against their impiety,
challenged the sacred regard that ought to be had to suppliants, and
the security and protection due to ambassadors, upon which, some
of the audacious young fellows, presently knocked them on the
head. Then these murderers and their co-partners got together in
a general assembly, and adding one piece of wickedness to another,
contrived an impious and vile design against the Marathenians; for
taking the rings off the fingers of them that were murdered, they
wrote letters to the Marathenians, as from the ambassadors, by
which they informed them, that the Aradians would within a short
time send them aid, to the end that the Marathenians might receive
the Aradian soldiers into their city, and so be surprised, thinking
they were really, and without fraud, sent to them as auxiliaries. But
the Aradians failed in their wicked design, for when they had laid an
embargo upon all the ships, that none might discover their treachery
to the Marathenians, a certain seaman, a neighbour to the Marathe-
nians commiserating their condition, and being accustomed to sail
in the neighbouring sea, took a ship, and in the night passed over
that narrow cut, about eight furlongs in breadth, and discovered the
fraud of the Aradians to the Marathenians; the Aradians therefore,
when they understood their plot was discovered, forbore sending the
letters.
98. Ptolemy Physcon, the brother of Philometor, began his
reign most wickedly; for charging many with plots against his life,
he put them all to death, with most cruel torments, others for pre-
tended crimes invented by himself, he banished and confiscated
their cstates: by which cruelties, in a short time, his subjects were
* of Alexander Bala, who pretended to be the son of Antiochus Epiphanes.-Joue.
plius lib. 13. C. 3. 1. Mac. 101. Ush. An. 465.
t Of Aradus island.
Of Marathos in Phænicia.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
617
so enraged, that they all hated him mortally; however, he reigned
fifteen years.
99. Viriathus, when at his marriage many gold and silver cups,
and all sorts of rich carpets of exquisite workmanship, were set
forth to grace the solemnity, he beld them all upon the point of a
lance, not with admiration of such rich and splendid furniture, but
rather in scorn and contempt. After, when he had upon this occa-
sion spoken many things, with much wisdom and prudence, he
concluded with many emphatical expressions, and with this one,
very remarkable*, for by this saying he signified, that it was the
greatest imprudence imaginable, to trust in goods of fortune, which
are so uncertain; especially, since it was apparent, that all those
highly esteemed riches of his father-in-law, were liable to be a prey
to him that might carry them away upon his spear's point; further
he added, that his father-in-law ought rather to thank him, for that
nothing of his own was given by his father-in-law, to him who was
lord and owner of all. Viriathus therefore at that time, neither
washed nor sat down, although he was earnestly entreated so to do.
And whereas the table was plentifully furnished with rich dishes of
meat, he only distributed some bread and flesh amongst them that
came along with him. After he had a little more than tasted the
meat himself, he ordered his bride to be brought to him, and having
sacrificed after the manner of the Spaniards, he mounted her on
horseback, and forthwith carried her away to his apartments in the
mountains: for he accounted sobriety and temperance the greatest
riches, and the liberty of his country gained by valour, the surest
possession. Io his leagues and treaties he was very careful and ex-
actly faithful to his word, and spoke plainly and sincerely what he
intended, instructed therein (without any other arts) by his own na-
tural principles of honesty and fair dealing.
100. Demetrius, while he staid at Laodicea, speut his time in
banqueting, and such like luxury; and yet exercised his tyranny on
many in the mean time, not at all bettered by his afflictions.
101. The Cnossians contended for the sovereignty of the island,
which they alledged belonged to them, both upon the account of the
antient dignity of the city, and the glory and renown of their an-
cestors in the heroic times. For some say that Jupiter was brought
up amongst them, and that Minos, who had the dominion of the
seas, was bred up by Jupiter, at Cnossus, and excelled all other
anen in virtuous accomplishments.
102. But in Egypt, king Ptolemy for his cruelty, was hated by
all his subjects: for his manners were nbt to be compared with his
* Here something is wanting.
Vol. 2, No. 48.
кккк
618
THE FRAGMENTS OF
a
brother Philometor's; for he was of a mild and gentle nature, but
the other fierce and cruel; and therefore the people longed for a
change, and earnestly waited for a fit opportunity to revolt.
103. At the time when Ptolemy, (after the solemn manner of the
Ægyptians), was enthroned at Memphis, his queen Cleopatra was
delivered of a son, at which he exceedingly rejoiced, and called him
Memphites, because he was born in the city Memphis, at the time
of his solemn inauguration. But while he was celebrating his son's
birth day, he forgot not his usual cruelty, for he ordered some of
Cyrene, (who had brought him into Ægypt), to be put to death, be-
cause they rebuked him something too freely, upon the account of
the strumpet Irene.
104. After Diegylis king of Thrace, came to the throne, he was
so puffed up with his prosperity, that he began to rule over his peo-
ple not as his subjects and friends, but to domineer over them, as so
many slaves and bondmen: for he put many good and honest Thra-
cians by tortures to death, and abused with the highest marks of dis-
grace many others : for he spared neither woman nor boy that were
handsome and beautiful, and stuck not at stripping men out of all
they had, by force and strong band, but filled all his dominions with
sapine and violence. He plundered and spoiled likewise the cities
of Greece that bordered upon him, and abused some of the captives,
and put others to death with exquisite torments. After he had taken
the city Lysimachia, (which belonged to Attalus), he burnt it dowa
to the ground, and picked out the greatest persons of quality from
amongst the captives, and put them to death with strange and un-
heard of tortures: for he cut off the heads, hands, and feet of their
children, and hung them about their parent's necks, and exchanged
the members of men and women one from another. Of some he
cut off their hands, and clove them down the small of the back,
and sometimes would cause the members to be carried about upon
the top of their spears, so that he far exceeded Phalaris himself, and
Apollodorus the tyrant of the Cassandrians. His barbarity is more
evident in this one instance following:_When he was celebrating
his nuptials, after the ancient manner of the Thracians, he catches
up two young men of Greece that were travelling, who were subjects
to Attalus, and were brothers, both very beautiful. The one was
fully attained to man's estate, and the other was near bordering upon
it; Diegylis caused them both to be introduced crowned with gar-
lands, after the manner of the victims: the younger being laid along
and extended at length by the officer, as one ready to cut him off at
the middle, the tyrant cried out, that kings and private men, were
nut 10 oller the like sacrifices; liercupon the elder makins great lu-
DIODORUS SICULUS.
619
mentation, out of endeared love to his brother, interposed himself
between him and the sword; upon which Diegylis commanded he
should be likewise laid along, and then doubling his cruelty, at one
stroke despatched them both, the spectators all applauding so noble
a piece of dexterity. Many such like wicked acts were committed
by bim,
105. When Attalus understood that Diegylis was hated by all his
subjects for his cruelty and covetousness, he took a quite contrary
course: aud therefore, when he had taken many Thracian prisoners
captive, and freely released them all, there were many that spread
abroad his fame for his generosity and clemency: and when many
of the Thracian nobility out of hatred to Diegylis, fled to him, and
were kindly received, and the thing came to be known, Diegylis
tortured the hostages of them that were fled with the most grievous
torments. Many of whom that were very young, and of tender age;'
he pulled in pieces, limb from limb, and of others he cut off their
hands, feet, and heads; some he crucified, and others he hung upon
trees; many women likewise, who were persons of quality, he stig.
matised before they were put to death, and prostituted them to the
lust of every vile fellow, in a most barbarous manner giving up him-
self to all manner of filthiness. Which as it clearly evidenced his
unparalleled cruelty, so it moved many of the spectators, who had
but the least sense of humanity, with pity and commiseration.
106. When Pompey was preparing to besiege the city Lagnus, the
Numantians willing to assist their countrymen, sent to them in
the night four hundred soldiers; whom the Lagnetians at first rea-
dily received, and bountifully rewarded as their saviours. But in
a few days after, dreading a siege, they treated with Pompey, to de-
liver up the town upon terms, insisting only upon sparing their lives.
But when Pompey would admit of no conditions, unless the Nu-
mantians were delivered up to him, the Lagnetians at first shrunk at
the thoughts of such a wicked act against their benefactors, and
therefore resolved to stand it out to the utmost; but being afterwards
reduced to the utmost extremity, they sent to Pompey to acquaint
him they were ready to redeem their own lives by the destruction of
their confederates; which the Numantians coming to understand,
they set upon the citizens unexpectedly in the night, and made a
grievous slaughter amongst them. Pompey having intelligence of
this tumult and bustle in the town, forthwith set scaling ladders to
the walls, and took the city, and put all the Lagnetians to the sword,
but generously discharged all the Numantian auxiliaries, to the nụm,
ber of two hundred; both pitying the men that were so unworthily
brought into such extremity and distress, as likewise hereby design,
a
620
THE FRAGMENTS OF
ing to gain the good will and opinion of the Numantians towards
the Romans. Afterwards he razed the city to the ground.
107. Arsaces king of the Parthians being a mild and gracious
prince, was exceedingly prosperous and successful, and greatly en-
larged the bounds of his empire; for he conquered all before him,
as far as to India, (where Porus reigned formerly), with a great deal
of ease: and though he was advanced to that degree of power and
authority, yet he inclined not in the least to pride and luxury, as is
common with princes in such cases, but was kind to his subjects,
and valiant in the field against his enemies: and having subdued se-
veral nations, gathered together a system out of the best of their
laws, and imparted them to his Parthians.
108. Variathus was buried by the Lusitanians with great pomp
and state; for two hundred gladiators were matched singly with as
many more, and fought duels at bis sepulchre, in honour of the re-
markable valour of this man. For he was, as is agreed by all, vali-
ant in dangers, prudent and careful in providing whatever was ne-
cessary, and that which was most of all considerable was, that whilst
he commanded he was more beloved than ever any was before him:
For in dividing the spoil he never served himself with any thing above
any of the rest; and of those things which fell to his share, he often
rewarded them that had behaved themselves valiantly, and relieved
those soldiers that were most in want. He was likewise of incredi-
ble sobriety and vigilance, not sparing any labour, or drawing back
from any hazard, not to be overcome in the least by ease or plea-
sures. The arguments of his virtuous qualifications are evident and
demonstrable: for being general of the Lusitanians for the space of
eleven years, during all that time is soldiers were not only peaceable
without any mutinies, but remained unconquerable: but after his
death the forces of the Lusitanians in a short time after were broken
and dispersed, being deprived of such a general.
109. Ptolemy for his cruelty, murders, filthy lusts, and deformed
body,(whence he was called Physco,) was hated by all. But Hierax
his general being an expert soldier, and popular in all general as-
semblies, and a man of a great spirit, took upon him the govern-
ment: for when Ptolemy wanted money, and the soldiers for want of
pay were dy to revolt to Galæstes, he put a stop to their mutiny
by paying off their arrears out of his own purse.
110. The Ægyptians altogether condemned Ptolemy when they
saw him so childish in his speeches, drowned in filthy lusts, and his
body emasculated by his intemperance.
111. Æmilius* the consul being of a heavy and unweildy body,
Marcus Æmilius.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
621
by reason of his bulk, and too much pampering of himself, was
very unfit for martial affairs.
BOOK XXXIV.
1. ABOUT this time there arose so great a mutiny and sedition of the
slaves in Sicily, as no age before could ever parallel, in which many
cities suffered, were miserably ransacked, and innumerable multi-
tudes both of men, women, and children, fell into most grievous ca-
lamities; and the whole island was now upon the point of falling
into the hands of the slaves, who designed no other bounds should
be put to their exorbitant power, than the absolute destruction of
their masters.
And these things fell out when none in the least suspected them;
but those who were accustomed to pierce deep into the grounds and
causes of all events, concluded that this was not a thing that hap-
pened merely by chance. For the inhabitants of this rich island
growing wanton with too much plenty, fell into luxury and volup-
tuousness, and then into pride and insulence. For those reasons
the cruelty of the masters towards their servants, and the hatred of the
servants towards their masters raging and increasing more and more
every day, at length a fit opportanity offering itself, their hatred
broke forth, and many thousand slaves on a sudden, without any
sign or appearance of any such thing before, got in a body together
to cut the throats of their masters.
And the same thing happened in Asia, almost about the same
time. For when Aristonicus*, without any colour of right, sought
to gain the kingdom of Asia, all the slaves, by reason of the cruelty
of their masters, joined with him, and filled many towns and cities
with blood and slaughter.
2. In like manner those that had large possessions in Sicily bought
up whole gaols to till their lands__some they shackled, others they
overcharged with hard labour, and branded and stigmatized every
one of them: so that such a multitude of slaves, even like a deluge,
overflowed all Sicily, that the excessive number may seem incredi-
ble to all that hear of it; for all the rich men of Sicily vied with the
Italians for pride, covetousness, and vicious practices; for many of
the Italians who had great numbers of servants, accustomed their
• Base brother to Attalus king of Pergamus.
622
THE FRAGMENTS OF
shepherds to that degree of rapine and licentiousness, as that they
suffered them to rob and steal for want of necessary subsistence from
them themselves. Which liberty being once granted to those men
who had strength of body sufficient to enable them readily to execute
any villany, together with time and leisure, and through want of
subsistence were reduced to the utmost extremity of attempting any
thing for their supply; these unruly fellows in a short time were ripe
and complete in wickedness. At first they used to murder travellers
upon the highway, when only one or two were together: afterwards
they would in bodies enter into little villages, in the night, and pil-
lage poor men's houses, and forcibly carry away whatever they found,
and kill all that opposed them. At length growing every day more and
more audacious, there was neither security in the roads in Sicily
for travellers in the night, nor safety in their houses for them that
dwelt in the country, but all places were full of rapine, robberies, and
murders. And because the shepherds and herdsmen were furnished
with arms, and inured to lie night and day in the open fields, they
every day grew more bold and daring: for carrying clubs and lances
and long staves, and covered with the skins of wolves and wild boars,
they looked with a most dreadful and terrible aspect as the children
of Mars. Besides, every one had a guard of great mastiff dogs to
attend them, and guzzling down milk, and glutting themselves with
flesh, and all sorts of other food and provision, they resembled beasts
both in souls and bodies. So that the whole island seemed as if it
had been full of soldiers roving up and down in every place, or as if
all the daring slaves were let loose by their masters to act the part of
madmen. It is true indeed that the Roman pretors and governors
did what they could to suppress this insolence of the slaves; but
because they durst not punish them, by reason of the potency of
their masters, they were forced to suffer the country to be infested
with robberies; for whereas most of their masters were Roman
knights, who had judicial authority at Rome, and were used to choose
judges out of the equestrian order in the causes of the pretors and
the proconsuls, who were summoned to appear before them after
their provincial authority was determined, the magistrates were
upon good grounds afraid of them.
3. The Italians, who had large possessions in Sicily, and therefore
bought many slaves, every one of whom they stigmatized with marks
on their cheeks, and oppressed them with hard labour, and yet de-
frauded them of their wages and subsistence.
4. There was one Damophilus of Enna, a wealthy man, but very
proud and arrogant; this man tilled a large compass of land, had
a vast stock of cattle, and initiated the luxury and cruelty of the
DIODORUS SICULUS.
623
Italians towards their slaves. For being carried in a coach drawn
by stately horses, he traversed the country up and down, guarded
with a company of armed slaves; he carried likewise about with him
continually many beautiful boys, Aatterers and parasites; and in the
city and villages had his silver vessels curiously wrought, and all
sorts of purple carpets of very great value; and made magnificent
feasts and entertainments, after the state and grandeur of a king, in
pomp and expense far surpassing the Persian luxury, and as much
as all other men in pride and arrogance. For being rude, and never
bred up with learning, or any liberal education; and having heaped
up a great deal of wealth, and himself left to a licentious liberty,
without controul; he first, from fullness and plenty became insolent,
and at last was a plague to himself, and the occasion of bringing many
miseries and calamities upon the country. For having bought many
slaves, he abused them in the highest degree; and those that were
free born in their own country, and taken captives in war, he stig-
matized in their cheeks with the sharp points of iron pins, some of
whom he sent bound in fetters to the gaols; and to others that were
ordered to look after the cattle in the fields, he neither allowed clothes
nor food sufficient to satisfy nature.
5. The barbarity and cruelty of this Damophilus was such, that
never a day passed wherein he scourged not liis slaves, without the
least cause or occasion. And his wife Megallis was as cruel as him-
self, towards the maid servants, and other slaves that fell into her
hands. The slaves therefore being thus provoked by the cruelty of
their master and mistress, concluding they could not be brought into
a worse condition than they then were, rose up all on a sudden.
6. In Sicily Damophilus had a young daughter of a very gentle
and courteous disposition, who made it her business to relieve and
heal those slaves that had been abused and scourged by her parents,
and to bring meat to them that were in prison; so that she was won-
derfully beloved by all tlie servants, insomuch, as in remembrance of
her former kindness, all had compassion of her, and were so far from
offering any violence or injury to the young maid, that every one of
them made it their business to preserve her chastity unviolated; and
chose some out of their own company, the most expeditious amongst
them, to conduct her to Catana to some of her friends.
7. After Eunus was declared king, he put many to death, and
spared only those that for the sake of his prophecies commended bim
at their feasts, to which bis master Antigenes used to bring him to
make sport; those likewise that were so kind as in a jest to give him
part of the dainties with them, he preserved; so that the strange
turn of fortune was to be admired, and that kindness showed to
624
THE FRAGMENTS OF
such mean and inconsiderable persons should occasion so great favour
and respect, at a time when it was so welcome and seasonable.
8. About the same time broke out another rebellion of the slaves;
one Cleon a Sicilian near Mount Taurus, inured to robberies from a
boy, being appointed to look to the horses in their pastures in Sicily,
beset the highways, and committed heinous murders up and down
the country. This fellow hearing of the good fortune of Lupus and
his followers, having persuaded some of the neighbouring slaves to
join with him, on a sudden revolted, wasted and spoiled the city of
Agrigentum, and all the neighbouring country round about.
9. In Asia, Attalus being newly come to the crown, began to ma-
nage affairs in a way quite different from all the former kings; for
they by their clemency and kindness to their subjects, reigned pros-
perously and happily themselves, and were a blessing to the king-
dom; but this prince being of a cruel and bloody disposition, op-
pressed his subjects with many slaughters, and grievous calamities:
suspecting that some of his own relations that were potent and
men of interest, were plotting against him, he resolved to rid him-
self of them. To that end he picked out some of the most covetous
and bloody fellows from among his barbarian mercenary soldiers,
and bid them in certain vaults in the palace; and then sending for
such of his friends and kindred as he was most jealous of, when he
had them there, he cut all their throats by those bloody executioners
of his cruelty, and forthwith ordered their wives and children to be
put to death after the same manner.
The rest of his father's friends that either had command in the
army, or were governors of cities, he either caused to be treacher-
ously assassinated; or seizing them, murdered them and their fami-
lies together. Being therefore hated not only by his subjects, but
by all the neighbouring nations, all within his dominions, endea-
voured as much as they could to bring about a revolution and change
of government.
10. Tiberius. Gracchus was the son of Tiberius who had been twice
consul, and a man very famous, both as to the sword and gown.
He was likewise the grandchild of Publius Scipio by his daughter,
that Scipio who conquered Hannibal and the Carthaginians. Being
nobly born on both sides, he excelled all his equals in age, in sound
judgment and elocution, and indeed in all manner of learning, so that
he was not afraid to enter the lists with any that dared to oppose him.
11. The Syrian slaves cut off the hands of those they took pri-
soners, not at the wrists, but hands and arms together.
12. The senate dreading the anger of the gods, consulted the
Sibyl's books, and sent ambassadors into Sicily, who passed through
DIODORUS SICULUS.
625
the whole island, erected altars to Jupiter Ætneus, and offered so-
lemn sacrifices to him, enclosing the altars round with stone walls to
exclude all but those of the several cities, who after the customs of
their own country, were used to offer sacrifices to him.
13. Gorgus was of Morgantium*, surnamed Cambalus, a principal
man for wealth and authority in the city. Going abroad to hunt,
and falling in amongst a company of robbers, he took to his heels
to get into the town, who being by chance met by Gorgus his father
on horseback, the father forthwith leaped off bis horse, and desired
his son to mount, and make away with all speed into the city; but as
the son was not willing to prefer his own preservation before that of
his father, so the father could not bear the death of his son by avoid-
ing the danger himself. And thus while they were with tears en-
treating one another, and striving to exceed each other in endearing
natural affections, the love of the father in contest with the love of
the son, they were overtaken by the thieves, and both killed upon
the place.
14. Zibelmius the son of Diegylis following bis father's steps in
cruelty, enraged at what the Thracians had done, proceeded to that
degree of implacable severity, and height of wickedness, that he
put to death all that had displeased him, with their whole families,
and upon most slight and frivolous occasions cut some in pieces limb
from limb, crucified others, and sawed several asunder. He killed
likewise little children before their parent's faces, and infants at
their mother's breasts, and having cut them in pieces, dished up
their members as curiosities for their kindred to feast upon, reviving
as it were those antient repasts and entertainments of Tereust and
Thyestes. At length the Thracians seized upon his person; but it
was scarce possible to punish him according to his deserts. For how
could one body suffer the punishment justly due for the cruelties and
injuries committed against a whole nation? However, to the utmost
of their power they repaid him with all the scorn and contempt, and
extremity of torture upon his body, they could invent.
15. Ptolemy Physcon, when he saw his sister Cleopatra was so
great an enemy to him, and could not revenge himself otherwise
upon her, contrived a most notorious piece of villany for that pur-
pose. For he imitated the cruelty of Medea, murdering her son
Memphites, begotten by himself, who was then in Cyprus, and a
• Now Georgeto in the kingdom of Naples.
† Tereus a king of Thrace. See the story of Tereus Progne and Philomela-Ovid,
Met. lib. 6. His punishment by his own subjects.
Tliyestes feasted by bis brother Atrens king of Mycenæ, with his own sons begotten
upon Atreus's wife-Ovid, Met.
Vol.2, No, 48,
LLLL
626
THE FRAGMENTS OF
ery young boy: and not content with this, he committed a far more
wicked act: for, cutting off the child's limbs, he put them in a
ehest, and delivered them to one of his guard to be conveyed to Alex-
andria; and whereas Cleopatra's birthday was then near at hand,
he commanded that in the night next before that day, he should
set down the chest at the palace gates; which being accordingly
executed, Cleopatra made great lamentation, and all the people were
in a great rage against Ptolemy.
16. Atheneus, Antiochus's general, in a short time met with a
just and due reward for his insolencies and abuses in all places
wherever he quartered in his march: for being the first that filed,
and forsook Antiochus in the heat of the fight, coming to some of
the towns where he had abused his quarters, all shut their doors upon
him, and every one refused to help him, either with meat or drink,
so that he wandered up and down the country, till at length he was
famished to death.
17. Hegelochus, general of Ptolemy Physcon, sent against Marsyas
the Alexandrian general, took himn prisoner, and cut off all his
army. When Marsyas was brought before the king, and all con-
cluded that he would forthwith put him to some cruel death, Ptolemy
pardoned him, beyond all men's expectation : for now he began to re-
pent of his former cruelties, and endeavoured to regain the people's
love and favour by acts of clemency.
18. Evemerus, king of Parthia, born in Hyrcania, exceeding all
other princes in cruelty, omitted no sorts of torments he could in-
vent. For many of the Babylonians, upon slight grounds, with
their whole families, he made slaves and sent them into Media to be
sold. He burnt likewise to the ground the market-place, and some
of the temples in Babylon, and razed the fairest and most beautiful
parts of the city.
19. Alexander surnamed Zabivas, when those renowned captains
Antipater, Ponius, and Eropus, revolted from him*, and seized upon
Laodicea, he at length took the city: however, he generously spared
them all. For he was of a mild and gentle disposition, and pleasing
temper, and of a wonderful affability in his converse or discourse,
and was therefore greatly beloved of every body.
20. When Caius Sextius had taken the city of the Gauls, and sold
the inhabitants for slaves, one Crato who was led in chains with the
rest, came up to the consul, as he sat upon the tribunal, and told
him he had ever been a friend to the Romans, and for that reason had
suffered many injuries, and had undergoue many stripes and scourg-
ings from liis fellow citizens: upon which Sextius forthwith, with
* To Scleucus Demetrius, son of Nicanor.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
627
all the demonstration of kindness, as of a kinsman, released him
from his bonds, and restored him his goods; and for his good will to
the Romans, gave him power to set free nine hundred of the citizens,
such as he himself thought fit. For the consul was more generous
and bountiful to Crato than he expected, to the end the Gauls might
see how exactly just the Romans were, both in their punishments and
rewards.
21. Alexander not being very confident of the multitude, both in
regard of their rawness in martial affairs, and their natural incon-
stancy, and hankering after innovations, would not adventure upon a
pitched field; but having got together as much money as he could,
out of the public treasuries, and pillaged the temples, resolved by
night to steal away into Greece. But whilst he attempted, by the
help of some of his barbarians, to plunder Jupiter's temple, he was
seized upon, and himself and whole army had like to have been cut
off: but he soon escaped out of their hands, and made towards Seleu-
cia. But the Seleucians having heard beforehand, of his savage sa-
crilege, shut their gates against him; and failing there of his purpose
he went to Pusidium, and never after departed from the sea coast.
22. After Caius Gracchus was killed by the hands of his own ser-
vant, Lucius Vitellius who had been one of his particular friends,
was the first that got his body; and was so far from being troubled
at bis death, that he cut off his head, and carried it to his own house,
thereby giving a remarkable instance of his cruelty and covetousness.
For when Lucius Opimius*, the consul by proclamation, promised to
reward him that should bring to him Gracchus's head, with the
weight of it in gold, Vitellius bored a hole in the neck, and drawing
out the brains, poured in melted lead in the room. Then he brought
the head to Opimius, and returned with the promised reward; but was
afterwards hated by all to the day of bis death, as a betrayer of his
friend. The Flacci were also all put to death.
23. In Libya the two kings drew up their armies one against ano-
ther, and Jugurtha routed the Numidians in a great battle, slaying
many of them; whereupon Adherbal his brother fled to Cirta, where
being straitly besieged, he sent ambassadors to Rome to entreat
them not to suffer a king that was their friend and ally to be utterly
ruined: whereupon the senate forthwith sent messengers into Nu-
midia with orders to Jugurtha to raise his siege: which he disregard-
ing, they sent another embassy vested with power and authority: but
that was as fruitless as the other; and at length Jugurtha, straitly
blocking up the city round, through extremity of famine forced it to
surrender, and most unnaturally slew his brother as he was going
* Vid. Plin, Nat, Hist, lib. 33. c. S.
>
628
THE FRAGMENTS OF
out of the city with his children, and leaving the kingdom, beseech-
ing him only to spare his life, neither regarding the laws of nature
and consanguinity, nor of arms, in sparing those that beg for quar-
ter: he likewise scourged all the Italians to death that sided with his
brother.
24. Publius Scipio Nasica, the consul, was a man renowned both
for his virtue and nobleness of birth; for he was of the same family
with Africanus and Hispanicus; of whom the first conquered Afri-
ca, the other Asia, and the third Spain; and from thence gained the
several surnames before mentioned: and besides the eminency of his
birth, his father and grandfather were the most eminent men of the
city; for both of them were presidents of the senate*; and the first
that gave their votes, and delivered their opinions in all public mat-
ters, to the time of their deaths. His grandfather upon an occasion
was judged by the senate the best man of all the Roman citizens.
Foritbeing found written in the Sybil's books. That the Romans should
build a temple in honour of the great mother of the gods, and should
bring her image from Pessinus in Asia, and meet it out of the city
with all the orders and degrees of the citizens in solemn pomp and
state, and that the best man should lead the men, and the best wo-
man be at the head of the women, when they received the image of
the goddess: the senate performing all that was prescribed by the
Sybil's writings, judged Publius Nasica to be the best man, and Va-
leria the best woman. For he was not only eminent for his piety to-
wards the gods, but of singular prudence in governing and ordering
matters of state, and of a piercing judgment. For when Marcus
Cato who was surnamed Demosthenes, in delivering his opinion in
the senate, was ever and anon affirming_That Carthage mast be
razed, though nothing was in debate concerning it, but the senate
was consulting of other matters; Publius Nasica was ever of a con-
trary opinion, that Carthage was to be preserved; in which differ-
ence of opinions it seened a matter of great difficulty to the senate
which of the two was most advisable; but those that were accounted
the best statesmen amongst them, preferred the opinion of Nasica.
For they conceived, that the power and grandeur of the Romans was
not to be judged of by the ruin and destruction of other cities, but
rather y its sovereign power and authority over such as are account-
ed the most potent. Besides, if Carthage stood, out of fear of that
city the Romans would be kept within the bounds of their duty, and
in peace and concord among themselves, and the commonwealth
would be forced to carry it towards their subjects with more modera-
tion and cleinency; which things usually strengthen, and enlarge all
* Chairmen, or speakers.
:
DIODORUS SICULUS.
629
sorts of governments: but if Carthage the rival city be once ,de-
stroyed, what can be expected but civil wars among the Romans
themselves, and the hatred likewise of all their allies for the pride
and covetousness of the Roman magistrates; all which accordingly
happened to the Romans after the destruction of Carthage. For
turbulent factions, Agrarian laws, grievous revolts of confederates,
continual and destructive civil wars, and all the other mischiefs which
Publius Scipio foretold, came to pass: his son Nasica afterwards,
when he was well in years, ordering the senate to follow him, killed
Tiberius Gracchus with his own hands, when he was contriving to
set himself up and take upon him the government. At the commis-
sion of which act, the commons being in an uproar and exasperated
against the authors of the murder, and the tribunes of the people
asking every one of the senators man by man, being brought hefore
them, who it was that killed Gracchus: every one out of the fear
of the rage of the people, denied the fact, and made use of shifting
and impertinent answers: but when it came to Nasica, he owned,
that he killed him with his own hand; and further declared, that the
designs of Gracchus in aspiring to be absolute monarch, was a secret
to all other persons, but very well known to him and the senate.
Whereupon the people, though they were much troubled at the fact,
yet being moved by the boldness and authority of the man, from
thenceforth rested quiet and said no more. This Scipio Nasica like-
wise, (son of the former Nasica), who died consul this year, was of
an unspotted conversation all his days, never tainted or corrupted
with bribes: and being endowed with philosophical principles, he
was not only a philosopher in words, but in truth; so that he inhe-
rited both the glory and virtues of his ancestors.
25. Antiochus Cyzenicus, as soon as he got into possession of the
kingdom, applied himself to revellings and luxury, and courses al:
together unbeseeming kings. For being extremely addicted to an.
tics, stage players, and all sorts of jugglers, he learned their arts
with a great deal of vehemency; he applied himself also to puppit-
playing, and placed his chiefest delight in making the images of
living creatures in bulk five cubits, covered over with gold and silver,
to move of themselves, and other engines of that nature.
for warlike engines and testudoes, called helepoles, whose
prepara-
tions and magnificence belonged to princes, and were commonly of
great use, he was altogether wanting in them. Moreover, he was
much addicted to unseasonable huntings, and oftentimes would steal
out privately by night, with a servant or two, to hunt boars, lions,
and leopards; so that many times he was in danger of his life by hi
rashly encountering these wild beasts.
But as
630
TIIE FRAGMENTS OF
26. Micipsa, son of Masinissa king of Numidia, had many
children; but above them all he loved Adherbal his eldest, and
Hiempsal and Micipsa; the last of which was the mildest prince of
all the kings of Numidia, and sent for the most learned nien out
of Greece he could hear of, and spending his time with them in im-
proving himself in all sorts of liberal sciences, and especially in
philosophy, he enjoyed his kingdom, together with his study of phi-
losoplıy to his old age.
27. Contoniatus, the petit prince of Jontora in Gaul, was emi.
nent for his prudence and skill in martial affairs: he was a friend and
an ally of the Romans, being formerly brought up in Rome, and so
seasoned with virtue and civility; by the help of the Romans he
gained that principality in Gaul.
28. Caius Marius, one of the ambassadors, was slighted by the
proconsul, as one of the meanest of them. The rest who were of
cminent birth, and in high place, were honoured and respected
by the proconsul. But as for the other who was said to have been
but a publican, and had much ado to get into the lowest form
amongst the magistrates*, Metellus made no account of him.
Though in truth, all the rest loved their ease and avoided the camp,
yet Marius, having been often employed in the wars in desperate ad-
ventures, seemed highly to resent the injury and affront. But ad-
dicting himself with great application of mind to martial affairs, he
became a most expert soldier; and being naturally of a warlike spi-
rit, in a short time he grew very famous; and for his generosity and
courteous deportment, and his affable carriage in all meetings to-
wards all that were under his command, he gained the hearts of all
the soldiers, who studying to make grateful returns for his kindness,
fought the more cheerfully and courageously, to the end they might
advance the honour and reputation of their general: and if any other
at any time happened to be sent to command them, the soldiers on
purpose in the very height of the battle would fight more carelessly;
so that most commonly things miscarried and came to nought when
any other commanded the army; but when Marius was general, the
Romans were ever conquerors.
* The proconsul.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
631
BOOK XXXVI.
1. THE rebellious slaves did not only waste and destroy Sicily, but
those that were free, who had neither lands nor goods, betook them-
selves to rapine and robberies, and ravaged up and down in the coun-
try in flocks and droves; they drove away whole herds of cattle;
robbed the barns in the towns and villages, and carried away the
corn and other fruits of the earth, and killed every one they met,
without distinction of either bond or free, that none might be left to
tell tales of their murders and cruelties. For as there was at this time
an anarchy in Sicily, having no Roman pretor that exercised any
jurisdiction, all ran headlong and committed many and great enor-
mities with impunity; so that all places were full of rapines and rob-
beries, and the goods of the rich made a prey to force and violence:
and they who a little before were noted and eminent amongst
their fellow citizens for their wealth, by a sudden change of fortune
were not only treated with the greatest contempt and scorn imagina-
ble, and robbed of all they had by their slaves, but were forced to bear
unsufferable abuses from them that were freemen of the same coun-
try. And therefore none could scarcely call any thing his owo within
the city gates; but what was without, they looked upon as quite lost,
and to be an irrecoverable prey to the robbers. To conclude, confu-
sion and utter subversion of law and justice, raged throughout all
the cities and towns in the country. For the rebels after they bad
wasted the country, out of hatred to their masters, and insatiable
covetousness, beset the high ways and made them impassable. And
those slaves that were yet within the cities sick, but in their hearts
longing for an opportunity to rebel, were a dread and terror to their
masters.
2. Saturninus the tribune being a man of profuse life, and questor
in the province of Ostia, ordering all the corn to be carried away to
Rome, for his mal-administration of the government was rebuked
by the senate, and divested of his authority, and the province com-
mitted to the care of another. But afterwards leaving off his former
luxurious course of life, and growing sober in his conversation, he
was chosen tribune of the people.
3. Whereas for two years together in every public assembly Q.
Metellus's restoring from banishment was taken into debate His
son traversing the market-place with his beard and hair overgrown,
632
THE FRAGMENTS OF
and in a nasty garment, with tears in his eyes, prostrated himself at
the feet of every citizen, entreating them to recal his father. But the
people, though they were very backward to make a precedent for
exiles for the time to come to hope for return, against the laws,
yet, in compassion to the young man, and being moved with the im-
portunity of his entreaty, they recalled Metellus from banishment, and
surnamed the son Pius, for his singular affection and care he had of
his father.
4. The Romans formerly, being governed by good and wholesome
laws and constirutions, by degrees grew to that height of power,
that at length they gained the greatest empire of any that history
makes mention of. But of later times, after they had conquered
many nations, and had so long indulged themselves in the enjoyment
of an uninterrupted peace, they declined from their antient manners,
to wicked and destructive courses. For the young men, enjoying
rest and ease from war, with plenty of all things to be fuel to their
Justs, gave themselves up to luxury and intemperance; for in the
city prodigality was preferred before frugality, and living at ease be-
fore the service of the camp: and he that wasted all his time in vo-
luptuousness, and not he that was of a virtuous and sober conversa-
tion, was accounted by all to lie the only happy man. And therefore
sumptuous feasts, most fragrant ointments, flowered and embroi-
dered carpets, rich and stately furniture for their banqueting rooms,
curiously wrought with gold, silver, ivory, and such like materials,
were then cried up every where. Wine that was but of an ordinary
quality they would not touch, but only Falernian* and Chian, and
such like pleasant wines: the choicest fish likewise, and every thing
of the best sort, was provided to gratify their shameless luxury. The
young gallants likewise wore garments of the finest and softest wool,
woven so fine, as that they were even transparent, and, for their
slender webh, altogether like unto women's gowns. All these things,
serving to nourish luxury and voluptuousness, (to their ruin and de-
struction), being generally coveted by all, in a short time grew to ex-
cessive rates: for a hogshead of Faleroian wine was sold for a hun-
dred drachmas, and a hogshead of salted fish from the Pontic sea for
four hundred. Skilful cooks were sold for four talents a-piece, and
delicate and beautiful boys for many talents. And whereas all with
full swing gave themselves up to this luxurious course of life, some
of the governors in the provinces used their utmost endeavour to re-
form these enormities; and to that end, being in high places, and so
most observable, by reason of the eminence of their stations, they
. Of Falernus, in Campania, in the kingdom of Naples, now called
Terra di Lavaro.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
633
framed their own lives so as to be examples of virtue and liberal edu-
cation to others.
5. Quintus Mutius Scævola used his utmost endeavour to reform
other men's corrupt manners by his own virtuous example. For,
when he was sent proconsul into Asia, he made choice of Quintus
Rutilius*, his most intimate friend, for his legate, and ever took his
advice in the management of his government, and making of laws.
All the costs and expences both of himself and his retinue he ordered
to be defrayed out of his own purse; and hy his moderation and fru-
gality, together with his just and upright dealing, lie freed the pro-
vince from its former miseries and oppressions: for the proconsuls
of Asia that were before him confederated with the publicans, (in
whose hands at that time was the administration of justice at Rome)
and filled the whole province with the pressures of their illegal ex-
actions.
6. Mujus Scævola, managing his government with all possible
diligence and integrity, did not only suppress all false accusations,
but restrained the injuries and oppressions committed by the public
cans. For as often as any who had been oppressed by thuse tol-
gatherers made their address to him, he commissioned uprighe judges,
by whom he condemned them wheresoever be came, and forced them
to pay the mulet imposed upon them to the persons they had injured:
but for offences that deserved death, he gave sentence of death. One
of the chief of these publicans, who had contracted with his master
for his freedom for a great sum of money, before he was manumitted,
he condemned to die, and crucified him.
7. Those that were condemned by the judges, he delivered over to
the persons injured, to be by them carried away to prison; so that
they who before, through their insolence and covetousness, com-
mitted all manner of injustice, were unexpectedly hurried away to
the gaol by those whom they had injured. Moreover, by discharging
his own expenses and the expenses of his retinue out of his own pri-
vate purse, he soon inclined the hcarts of all the province towards the
people of Rome.
8. Lucius Asellius (whose father was a questor) being sent pretor
into Sicily, finding in the province great havock and devastation; by
his prudent management of things in a short time restored it to its
former state and condition. For, after the example of Scaevola, he
made choice of his intimate friend Caius Sempronius Longus for his
legate, and joined with him Publius, the famous Roman knight, for
his counsellor, who then resided at Syracuse, and, besides the goods
of fortune, was eminent for the virtues of his mind. His picty to-
* Publius Rutilius Rufus.
Vol. 2. No. 48.
MMMM
0.34
TIIE FRAGMENTS OF
wards the gods is sufficiently testified by his sacrifices, gifts, and a-
dorning of the temples: and the quick and lively use of all his senses
to the last moment of his life was an evident argument of his sobriety
and temperance: and his learning and courteous disposition are ap-
parent from the great value and esteem he ever had of learned men,
and his bounty and liberality out of his own purse towards them that
applied themselves to the study of the liberal arts and sciences,
Asellius, assisted with the advice of those two men, who continued
with him under the same roof, and sat with him in judgment upon
the bench, made it his daily care to reform and set all things right
again in the province.
9. In the courts of justice, he aimed at the public good, and cleared
the court of all sycophants and false accusers; and it was his chief
care to relieve the poorest man, and those that were less able to help
themselves: for whereas the other pretors committed the care of
orphans and widows that were destitute of friends to tutors and guar-
dians that were strangers, he looked after them himseli, and decided
their causes with all the care and diligence imaginable, and was a
great relief to the oppressed. And as long as he was governor of
Sicily, continually using his utmost endeavour to suppress both pri-
vate and public injuries, he at length settled the province in its for
iner state of happiness and prosperity.
10. Marcus Livius Drusus, though he was very young, yet was
adorned with wbatever was commeodable, either in reference to his
body or mind: for he was the son of a renowned father, who was sin-
gularly beloved of the people of Rome, both upon the account of his
nohle birth and virtuous qualifications. And he himself for elo-
.
quence excelled all his equals in age, and all his fellow-citizens in
wealth and riches: and upon the account of his faithfulness to his
word, he gained a very great interest and authority among the citi-
zens; and, being likewise of a great spirit, seemed to be the only
patron of the senate.
BOOK XXXVII.
1. POLIPEDIUS, general of the Marsi*, attempted indeed a great,
but a most rash and inconsiderate act: for he picked out ten thou-
• A people in Jualy.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
635
a
a
sand soldiers from amongst those who were afraid of suffering due
punishment for their offences, and, commanding them to hide their
swords under their coats, marched with them towards Rome, with
a design to beset the senate round with this rabble, and to de-
mund the freedom of the city, and, if he could not prevail, to lay the
city waste with fire and sword. Being by chance met upon the road
by Caius Domitius, he asked him_“ Whither goest thou, Pompor-
dius, with so great a company?” who answered_To Rome, for that
he was sent for by the tribunes of the people, to be received into the
freedom of the city. But Domitius replied, saying.--" Thou mayest
.
obtain what thou seekest for with far more case, and much more
honesty, if thou didst not make up to the senate in a hostile manner:
for the senate will not be compelled, but entreated and petitioned, to
bestow 'that grace and favour upon the Latins, who are their allies
and confederates." The man being taken with this, as with a divine
admonition from heaven, and over-persuaded with what Domitius
had said, forthwith returned home. And thus Domitius, by his sca-
sonable and prudent advice, delivered his country from dreadful mis-
chiefs that threatened it, addressing himself to Pompedius, much
better than Servilius the proconsul did to the Picentians: for be
spoke not to them as to freemen and allies, but as to slaves, and in-
sulted them with the greatest scorn and contempt imaginable, and
threatened and terrified them to that degree, that he stirred up the
confederates, to the ruin and destruction both of himself and others.
But Domitius on the contrary, by his mild and calm discourse, allayed
the fury and violence of the enraged multitude.
2. There was one Agamemnon, a Cilician, for his many wicked
pranks and slaughters of the confederates, was committed to prison
in Asculum* by the Romans. This man being released by the Pi-
centians, in gratitude for the kindness shewn him, fought resolutely
on their side; and, being inured to robberies from a boy, joining
with others of the like gang, he wasted and spojled the enemy's
country,
3. The inhabitants of the city Pinnat, for their constant fidelity
to the Romans, fell into most dreadful calamities: for, being obsti-
nately resolved not to desert the Romans, (without any touch or sense
of natural affection), were forced to see their children knocked on the
head before their eyes,
4. Lucius Sylla bravely and gallantly performed most noble ac-
tions, and his fame and renown was blazoned all over the city; and
abe people of Rome judged him worthy of the consulship, looking
* A city in Apulia, in Italy,
† In luby.
636
THE FRAGMENTS OF
upon him as a man eminent both for valour and conduct in martial
affairs: to conclude, it was apparent that he was likely to arrive at
the highest pirch of glory.
5. Mithridates having conquered the Roman generals in Asia, and
taken many prisoners, sent them all home clothed, and with provi-
sions in their knapsacks. This mild passage was cried up every
where, and all the cities generally came flocking in to him; insomuch
that ambassadors came to him from all cities, inviting him by their
public decrees to come in to them, cailing him their god and deli-
verer: and, upon potice of the king's approach, the people came
huduling out of the several cities in white garments, to salute him,
and received him with great joy and acclamation.
6. Mithridates's pariy sweeping all before them in Asia, as they
went without control, all the cities strangely revolted from the Ro-
mans; and as for the Lesbians, they resolved not only to yield up
themselves to the king, but to deliver up Aquilius also, who flew
away to Mitylene, and lay there to be cured of a disease. Where-
upon they sent to his lodgings a company of choice youths, stout
and resolute, who came rushing into the room where Aquilius was,
and took bim and bound bim, supposing he would be a most rare
present, and very acceptable to Mithridates: but Aquilius, though he
was but as yet a youth, performed a most noble and heroic act; for,
preferring death before disgrace, and the punishments of a slave, he
prevented them that were ready to hurry bim away, and killed him-
self: with which desperate act those that came to take him along
with them were so terrified, that they durst not approach him. His
valour* and resolution, therefore, was cried up every where, who, by
the putting ar. end to his own life, had rescued himself with an un-
daunted courage from the torments designed to be executed upon
lim.
7. In order to a sca-fight, the Rhodians were overmatched in no-
thing but in the number of ships; and in all other respects they were
far superior, as being the better pilots, knew better how to order
their ships and ply the oars, had the more sprightly soldiers, and the
inore expert commanders: whereas, on the contrary, the Cappado-
cians were but fresh-water soldiers, seldom exercised at sea fights,
and, which commonly proves the base of all, did all tumultuously
and without any order. It is true, indeed, they were as cheerful and
ready to engage as the Rhodians, because they were to fight just un-
c'er the king's eye, and therefore desired to approve their loyalty and
• But Plin. Nat. Hist. lib. S3, c. 3, says, Mithridates poured melted gold down his
throat, for his coretousness, Ush, Ann. 518.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
637
affection to him; and, in regard they only overpowered their enemies
io number of ships, they used all the arts and contrivances they could
devise to surround and hem thein in.
8. Caius Marius was the most renowned person of any of his time,
when he was young: he was ambitious of honour and glory, free
from covetousness, and performed many noble acts, both in Europe
and Africa, so that his name was famous, and cried up in all places.
But when he grew old, and coveted the riches of king Mithridates,
and the wealth of the cities of Asia, and sought, against the laws, to
have the province which was allotted to Cornelius Syila transferred
to him, he fell justly into many calamities; for he not only missed
those riches which he coveted, but lost all that were his own, the
questors, by reason of his extraordinary covetousness, being sent to
seize upon all his goods for the public use. He was, moreover, by
the judgment of the people condemned to die; but escaped that pu-
nishment by flight, and wandered solitarily and alone up and down
Italy, and at length got into Numidia, poor and destitute of all things.
Afterwards, when the civil wars broke out in Rome, he joined with
those that were judged enemies to the Romans, and, being victori-
ous, he was not contented with his return into his own country, but
raised great commotions in the commonwealth. But at length hay-
ing gained the seventh consulship, and by his own misfortunes
learned the inconstancy of fortune, he was unwilling to put things
10 a hazard any more: and therefore, foreseeing the dreadfal war Syila
Was bringing upon his country, he murdered himself; but, leaving
behind him the seeds of a most grievous war, he involved his son and
country in inost dreadful calamities: for his son being forced to con-
tend with an enemy more potent than himself, he most miserably
perished (upon taking of the city) in a vault, whither he fled to hide
himself. And the people of Rume, and cities of Italy, having been
now long engaged in a cruel war, fell under many dreadful calamities.
For two principal men of the city, Scævola and Crassus, without any
course of legal proceedings, were murdered in the senate; whose
cruel murder plainly evidenced the greatness of those miseries that
then threatened both the city and all Italy: for the greatest part of
the senate, and the most eminent men of the city, were slaughtered
by Sylla, and no less than one hundred thousand soldiers were slain,
either iu mutipies or battles; and all these miseries were at first oc-
casioned by the covetousness only of Marius.
9. Lucius Cornelius Merula, who was chosen consul in the room
of Ciona, when Cinna agreed to peace, upon condition that he might
Le restored to the consulship, approved bimself a good citizen, and
638
THE FRAGMENTS OF
evidenced his extraordinary love to bis country: for, addressing him-
self to the senate and people, and, discoursing concerning what might
most tend to the public good, he promised that he would be the pro-
curer of peace: and whereas he was chosen consul much against his
will, he declared he would now freely, of his own accord, give up
his authority into the hands of Ciuna; upon which he forthwith sur-
rendered his consulship, and became a private man. The senate
hereupon sent ambassadors to Cinna, and, having agreed with him
upon the terms of peace, introduced him into the city.
10. Lucius Sylla, being greatly straitened for want of money,
rifled three temples that were full of devoted gold and silver, that is,
the temple of Apollo at Delphos, of Esculapius at Epidaurus, and
the famous temple of Jupiter at Olympus; out of whiclı last he car-
ried away a vast treasure, for it had never before been violated. But
as to the temple at Delphos, the Phocions, in the time of the sacred
war, had drained it of its wealth. When Sylla, therefore, had thus
heaped up a mighty mass of gold and silver, and other treasure, he
was sufficiently furnished with money to carry on the war in Italy.
But having, without all fear or sense of religion, thus rubbed the
temples, he consecrated a piece of land to the gods, for the main-
taining of yearly sacrifices, in lieu of the money; and would often,
in a joke and jest, say--- That he was sure to be vietorious in all on-
counters, who had the gods for his assistants, and for that end had
helped him with money.
11. Fimbria, having out-run Flaccus, and got a long way before
him in his march, thought he had now gained a most convenient
opportunity for some commotion or other; and therefore, that he
might endear the soldiery to him, he permitted them to make incur-
sions into the countries of their allies, and make what havock they
pleased therein, and to take captive every one they met with. The
soldiers very readily embraced the license, so that within a few days
they had scrambled together abundance of wealth by their plunder-
ing. But those that had been spoiled of their goods went to meet the
consul, and made bitter complaints to bim of the injuries they bad
received, who being much troubled at the business, commanded them
to follow him, and he himself would see restitution made to every
one that had suffered; and accordingly with threats he commanded
Fimbria to return forthwith to the owners whatsoever had been taken
away from them. But Fimbria laid all the blame upon the soldiers,
who did this without any commission from him; but covertly he ad-
vised them not to regard the consul's command, nor suffer that to be
taken from them which they had got by the law of arms: upon this,
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
639
when Flaccus commanded restitution to be made of their rapine,
adding threats to his commands, the soldiers refused to obey, so that
there followed a great mutiny in the camp.
12. Fimbria, having again crossed the Hellespont, animated his
soldiers to rapines and all kinds of villapies, exacted money from the
cities, and divided it amongst the soldiers, who, having obtained an
uncontrouled license, did what they pleased; and allured, moreover,
with the hopes of a large income, loved Fimbria as one who had de-
served extremely well of the whole army. Moreover, those cities that
had stood out against him, when he had taken them, he gave them to
the plunder of his soldiers, and so he dealt with Nicomedia.
13. The same Fimbria being admitted into Cyzicum, professing
himself a friend to the place, as soon as he was got in, began to im-
peach all the wealthiest of them, and charge them with some crime or
other. Two of these, the principal men of the city, after he had
passed sentence on them, he caused to be whipped with rods, to ter-
rify the rest, and afterwards struck off their heads, and set their goods
to sale, and forced others, out of fear, to give him all they had, as a
ransom for their lives.
14. Co. Pompeius addicted himself to martial affairs, and inured
himself to the hardships and fatigues of war, so that in a short time
he became very expert in military matters: for, casting off all sloth
and effeminateness, he was always, night and day, doing something
or other that was useful and advantageous for matters relating to war;
for he was very sparing in his diet, cat his meat sitting, and altogether
forbore baths, and such like delights. He allotted but a few hours
of the night for sleep, and spent the rest in the cares of a general,
relating to what he was to put in execution the next day; so that, by
his constant forethoughts of the uncertain events of war, he became
a most expert commander. And therefore, whereas another could
scarce in the same time fit himself to take upon him the charge of
an army already raised, in that time, and much less, he raised them,
trained, and disciplined them. And when the news of his famous ex-
ploits was brought to Rome, every body at first, reflecting upon his
youth, more than thinking upon his valour, slighted him, supposing
that the messengers stretched in their relations, and made things look
bigger than in truth they were. But when the certain event con-
firmed the former report, the senate sent out Junius* against him,
whom he routed, and put to flight.
15. Lucius Scipio's army being corrupted, revolted, and went over to
Sylla: Scipio now looking upon himself as a lost man, Sylla sent
to him a party of horse, to conduct him whithersoever he pleased.
# Junius Brutus,
640
THE FRAGMENTS OF
Being therefore forced in a moment to lay aside the ensigns of his
authority, he was forthwith, by the courtesy of Sylla, brought in a
private habit to the place he desired. But presently after he resumed
the ensigns of his authority, and again marched forth with a consi-
derable army.
16. In the mean time the persons of the greatest quality at Rome,
by false accusations, were put to death, amongst whom Quintus Mu-
tias Scævola, the chief priest, a most honourable and virtuous per-
son, came to an unworthy end, only the Romans were fortunate in
this, that the high priest died not in the most sacred place: for the
ctuelty of the murderers was such, that they laid him upon the very
altar*, and there cut his throat, so that by his own blood he estin-
guished that fire which, out of a religious devotion, from antient times
was ever kept burning.
17. The names of those that were proscribed being fixed up in the
market-place, on a sudden a multitude of people came flocking in to
read it, of whom very many pitied those that were thus condemned
to die. But one amongst the rest, a most malicious and insolent
fellow, gloried over the miserable condition of the amicted, and bawled
out most spiteful words against them, whom some incensed deity
forthwith repaid with a just revenge: for by chance reading his own
name as one proscribed at the bottom of the roll, he presently threw
his gown over his head, and began to fly through the thickest of the
people; but, being known to one that stood next to him, who disco-
vered him to be one condemned, he was instantly surrounded and
seized, and then put to death, to the great joy of all that heard it.
18. Cneius Pompeius, being a long time pretor in Sicily, applied
himself to the business of the courts of justice, and, deciding both
public and private controversies, discharged his office with so much
diligence and integrity, that none ever merited more commendation:
for, though he was but two-and-twenty years of age, a time which
might have drawn him off by foolish youthful lusts, yet he carried
himself with so much gravity and sobriety all the while he was in Si-
cily, that the virtue of the young man was much admired by all the
Sicilians.
Of Vesta.
THE FRAGMENTS
OF
DIODORUS SICULUS,
CONCERNING
EMBASSIES.
PUBLISHED BY FULVIUS URSINUS.
Vol. 2, No. 49.
NNNN
!
重
​643
DIODORUS SICULUS.
FRAGMENTS.
TO THE READER,
THESE few fragments, together with those of Polybius, Dionysius
Halicarnassus, Dion Cassius, and Appian, were published in the
year of our Lord 1581, by Fulvius Ursinus, a Roman born, and emi-
nently learned: but for a further and more particular account of
them, I refer the reader to the epistle to the fragments of Valerius,
placed next before these; and therefore have now nothing further
to add, but an acknowledgment of thanks due to a learned person
in Oxford, through whose candour the book out of which the transla-
tion of these fragments was made was brought to hand for perusal.
BOOK XXXVII.
1. IN the reign of Tullus Hostilius, king of the Romans, the Al-
bani, jealous of the growth of the Roman power, pretended that the
Romans committed thefts and robberies in their country, and there
fore sent ambassadors to Rome, to demand justice, with instructions,
that if they did not hearken to them, to denounce war against them.
Hostilius, the king of Rome, understanding that they sought occasion
to pick a quarrel, and begin a war, commanded his friends and offi-
cers to entertain the ambassadors courteously, and persuade them to
peace and amity. But the king, not willing hastily to give them au.
dience, sent some in the mean time to the Albani, with orders and
instructions like to those of the Albani to him; ordering this, as
prompted thereunto by that äntient custom, according to which the
old Romans studied nothing more than that their wars should be just
THE FRAGMENTS OF
and warrantable: for he was very cautious lest, not being able to find
out the first authors of the depredations, or such as were to be de-
livered up to the demands of justice, he should be thought to be the
first fomenter of an unjust war. But it falling out that the ambassa-
dors that were sent to Alba were first denied justice, upon the thirti-
eth day they denounced war against the Albani. The Alban ambas-
sadors, according to their desires, received answer_That they being
the first that denied doing justice, the Romans were they who now
denounced war against them. And these were the reasons that the
people who were before allied by marriages, and at mutual amity
one with another, now became enemies, and alienated one from
another.
2. When Cambyses, king of Persia, was lord of all Egypt, the
Libyans and Cyreneans, confederating with the Egyptians, sent pre-
sents, and promised entire obedience and subjection to their com-
mands.
3. The ambassadors that were sent from Nabis and Flamininus*
to Rome, concerning the terms of peace, after they had opened to
the senate the matters given them in charge, the senate decreed the
articles to be confirmed, and that all their garrisons should be re-
moved, and their forces drawn out of all parts of Greece. When
Flamininus heard of the senate's decree, he summoned all the nobi-
lity of Greece from all parts, to meet in a general council, where he
rehearsed to them the great kindnesses and good will of the Romans
towards the Grecians, and apologized for the matter relating to Na-
bis, because they did in that affair as much as they were able. He
told them likewise, that, according to their desire, all the inhabitants
of Greece should be free, and eased of all their garrisons, and, above
all, be governed by their own laws. But he begged that the Greeks
would'so far gratify him as to inquire what Italian servants were a-
mong them, and to discharge them within thirty days; which was
done accordingly.
4. The senate again gave audience to the Grecian ambassadors,
and caressed them with very fair words, desirous to have them earnes:
and forward in the prosecution of the war against Antiochust, which
they suddenly expected. They gave answer likewise to the ambas-
sadors of Philipi --That because he maintained his fidelity, they
would free him from tribute, and discharge his son Demetriusg.
And to those that came from Antiochus they appointed ten of the
senate to hear what they said they had in charge from the king.
Titus Quintus Flamininus, not Flaminius, as Plutarch says: for Flanininus way of
Putrician extraction, but Flaminius of plebeian. ---See Livy, lib. 32.
1 Tac Great. # king of Macedon. Who was an liostage.---Lix. lib 34.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
645
When the commissioners sat, one of the ambassadors named Menip-
pus, president of the embassy, declared, that they came to make up
a league of friendship and confederacy between the Romans and
Antiochus. But he said that the king greatly wondered for what
manner of reason the Romans should lay their commands upon him,
what parts of Europe he should make his concern; what cities he
should not meddle with, nor collect the tributes of some that were
in arrear; that it was not usual for those that are making a treaty
upon equal terms, but for the conquerors, to impose in such a man-
ner; and that their ambassadors who were sent to him to Lysimachia
imperiously charged him with these things: that Antiochus was not
at war with the Romans, and, if they had a mind to enter into an
alliance and league with him, he was ready. Flamininus answered
_There were two things propounded by the senate, let bim choose
which of them he would; and that is . If he would relinquish all
his pretences in Europe, the Romans would not meddle with his
concerns in Asia: and if this did not please him, then they were to
let the king know, that the Romans would assist their friends and
allies, when oppressed. The ambassadors replied _They could not
agree to any thing that might impair the king's sovereignty. The
next day the senate told the Grecians_That if Antiochus did busy
himself, and intermeddle with any thing in Europe, the Romans
would, with all the care and diligence imaginable, set free all the
Greeks that were in Asia. The Grecian ambassadors hereupon ap-
proved of all by an applause; but the king's ambassadors entreated
the senate that they would consider into what dangers and miserics
both parties would be brought, and not to be rash in their resolves,
but that they would give the king time to consult, and themselves to
be better advised about these things.
5. As to the Ætolian ambassadors that sought for peace, the se.
nate decreed-That they sliould either give up all their country to
the Romans, or forth with pay to them a thousand talents of silver.
L'pon this severe answer (never suspecting any such thing would
bave been enjoined) they were seized with great fear; and, seeing
that they had adhered to the king*, they fell into inextricable straits
and perplexities, not having any means left, or way open, to escape
utter ruin.
6. Antiochus, hearing that the Romans had passed over into Asia,
sent Heraclides of Byzantium to treat with the consul about a peace,
with offers to bear half of the charges of the war, to give up Lamp-
sacus, Smyrna, and Alexandria, upon the account of which cities he
conccived the war broke forth: for those were the first of all the
Philip or lacedon.
646
THE FRAGMENTS OF
Greek cities of Asia that, by their ambassadors to the senate, prayed
the assistance of the Romans for the regaining of their liberty.
7. Antiochus promised Publius Scipio, the president of the coun-
cil, to release his son without ransom, whom he had taken prisoner
when he lay about the island Eubæa; and besides this, that he would
give him a great sum of money, upon the obtaining of a peace. Sci-
pio answered _That he would return the king thanks for the release
of his son, but that he did not want those sums; and in requital of so
remarkable a kindness, lie advised him as a friend not to wiihstand
the Romans, of whose valour he had had experience. But Antiuchus
judging those terms to be harder than were fit to be complied with,
rejected his advice.
8. In Rome, before the overthrow of Antiochus, the ambassadors
from the Ætolians being brought into the senate, and not in the least
excusing the faults, but setting forth the great services the Ætolians
had performed to the Roman state, one of the senate rose up, and
asked the ambassadors, whether the Etolians had given up them-
selves to the protection of the Romans? The ambassadors being
hereupon silent and dumb, the senate, suspecting that the Ætolians
fixed their hopes in Antiochus, sent them back into Greece with a
fruitless embassy.
9. Antiochus, laying aside all thoughts of war, sent ambassadors
to the consul, to ask pardon for his miscarriages, and to procure a
peace upon any terms that possibly might be had. The consul,
keeping close to the moderation and clemency of his country, and
advised likewise by his brocher Publius *, agreed to a peace, upon
these conditions. That the king should leave all Europe to the Ro.
mans, and part likewise with all the countries and cities lying on this
side the Taurus: that he should give up all his elephants and long
ships, and
pay all the charges and expenses occasioned by the war,
which were computed at fifteen thousand Eubean talents: that he
should deliver up into their hands Hannibal the Carthaginian, and
Thoas the Etolian, and some others, and give twenty hostages,
such as the Romans should nominate. Antiochus, out of a long-
ing desire of peace, having accepted these conditions, was freed from
the war.
10. After the overthrow of Antiochus, there came ambassadors
from all the cities and states of Asia, sume concerning the freedom
of their cities, others relating to congratulations for the good services
they had done for Rome, in joining in the war against Antiochus.
To all which the senate gave great encouragement, and said they
would send ten commissioners into Asia, who, with the generalst,
• P. Scipio. --Vid. Liv. lib, 38, + Pretors.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
647
should bring all orders with them. When the ambassadors were re-
turned into their own countries, the ten commissioners, with Scipio
and Æmilius, met in council together, and decreed, that the regions
on this side Taurus should be given to Eumenes, and the elephants.
But Caria and Lycia they assigned to the Rhodians. They ordered
likewise that such cities as paid tribute to Eumenes should be sub-
ject to him, but that such as were tributary to Antiochus should be
freed from all tribute whatsoever.
11. When the Galatian* ambassadors came to Cneius Manlius the
proconsul to treat for peace, he answered_He would come to terms
of peace with them when their kings came to him.
12. The same coming into Lycaonia, brought corn that was due
from Antiochus, and the yearly tribute of a thousand talents, accord-
ing to the articles of peace.
13. The general assembly of the Achaians coming together in
Peloponnesus, the Roman commissioners met them, and declared,
that the senate was much displeased at the demolishing of the walls
of Lacedæmon, which was done by the states of Achaia when they
were lords of Sparta, and had brought the Lacedæmonians, as mem-
bers, into the same commonwealth. To this assembly came the am-
bassadors of Eumenes, and brought along with them a present of
twentyt talents, out of which the king intended that the charge of
such as were members of the Achaian senate should be defrayed. But
the Achajans, disliking the disposal of the money, refused the gift.
Thither likewise came ambassadors from Seleucus, to renew the
league formerly made between the Achaians and Antiochus, which
league they renewed, and accepted the present sent from him.
14. Ambassadors coming to Rome from the kings and princes of
Asia, those princes with Attalus had a noble reception; for they
were met with great state and pomp, and presented with rich gifts,
and other extraordinary marks of respect and favour: for these princes
were fast friends to the Romans, and observant in every thing to the
senate; and besides, having courteously entertained above all others
those Romans that came to visit the queenſ, they were judged worthy
of the most honourable reception. For these reasons the senate,
having heard all the ambassadors, and especially desirous to gratify
the princes that belonged to Eumenes, returned them a gracious an-
swer; for they signified that they would send delegates from the se-
nate to put a full end to the war with Pharnaces.
15. The defrauding of creditors in Thessaly setting all in a flame
• Gallogreeks. + Polyb. Leg. 41, one hundred and twenty talents.
Stratonice, upon the news of Eumenes, her busband, being dead.--See Liv.
lib. 42.
648
THE TRAGMENTS OF
among the Ætolians, and every city being filled with seditions and
tumults; the senate suspected that all this confusion was caused by
Perseus*, and declared to his ambassadors that they would acquit
him of other crimes whereof he was accused: but as to his ejecting
of Abrypolis king of Thrace out of his kingdom, they commanded
Perseus, to rectifyt what he had done.
16. When Arpalus, Perseus's ambassador was silent, the senate
so far honoured Eumenes as to present him with an ivory chariott,
and conferred upon him other honours, and with special favour and
Jespect sent him away into Asia.
17. The same day the senate decreed the war against Perseus,
and declared it to the ambassadors, but returned no answer; and
commanded the consuls expressly to reject them in the assemblies,
and ordered that the ambassadors and all the Macedonians should
that very day depart out of Rome, and within thirty days out of
Italy.
18. Ptolemyſ, king of Egypt, knowing that his ancestors had
been formerly lords of Cælosyria made great preparations to gain
that justly, even by the law of nations that was before lost by an
unjust war. Antiochus f having intelligence of these preparations,
sent ambassadors to Rome, commanding them to acquaint the senate,
that Ptolemy had begun an unjust war against him; but he before
named, sent ambassadors to make his defence, and to inform the se-
vate how Antiochus, against all right and justice, lorded it over Colo-
syria, being Piolemy's own inheritance, descended to him from bis
ancestors. But he ordered them to renew friendship with the Ro-
mans, and to endeavour to put an end to the war against Perseus.
19. Ambassadors came to Rome from Rhodes to clear themselves
of those crimes that were charged against them; for in the war
against Perseus they seemed in their hearts to lean to the king, and
to be loose in their friendship towards the Romans; but perceiving
the aversion and displeasure of the senate against them, they were
greatly dejected; and when one of the pretors, who had called to-
gether an assembly, stirred up the people to a war against the Rho-
dians, they were exceedingly afraid upon the account of their coun-
try, and fell into that consternation, that they put on mourning ha-
bits, not any longer making their demands, or soliciting after the
usual freedom of friends, but deprecating with tears, that nothing
irremediable might be decreed against them. But one of the tri-
* King of Macedon.--Liv. lib. 42.
+ To mend his manners.
Chair of state. || Perseus's Ambassadors. ♡ Ptolemy Pbilometor.
datioclius Epiphanes.-Ant. Ch. 166.
DIODORUS SICULUS
649
budesä introducing them into the senate, and violently plucking
down the pretor from the desk, who was stirring them up to the
war, he caused them to speak, who saying many things in a way of
humble supplication, received such an answer as altogether freed
them from their excessive fears; but for some of their crimes they
were sharply rebuked.
. 20. About this time came ambassadors to Rome from all parts to
congratulate their victories: the senate courteously received them all,
and returning them gracious answers, presently sent them back into
their own country.
21. About this time there being many ambassadors arrived, the
sepate first despatched those that came along with Attalus. For the
Romans were jealous of Eumenes, by reason of some letters that
were intercepted, by which it appeared that he had confederated with
Perseus against the Romans, being likewise accused by many am-
bassadors that came out of Asia, and especially by those that were
sent from king Prussiast, and the Gallogreeks; those with Attalus
readily answered to every article of the charge, and not only cleared
themselves of all the crimes, but returned home with much honour
and reputation. However, the senate did not altogether lay aside
the suspicion of Eumenes: but pitching upon Caius, sent him away
strictly to observe his affairs and motions.
22 Prussias became unworthy of the royal dignity, spent his days
basely aud sordidly, in flattering his superiors; and wben the Roman
ambassadors came to him, he threw aside the ensigns of royalty, the
diadem and the purple, and, imitating exactly the garb of the Roman
libertines, met the ambassadors with his head shaven, and wearing
a white cap, and, having on the gown and shoes of a manumitted
slave, so saluted the ambassadors, declaring himself to be a liber-
tine of the Romans, than which it is no easy matter to find a more
dishonourable title; and many other such mean things he had done
before. And when he came to the portico of the senate house,
standing at the door straight over against the senators, he fell down
prostrate upon both hands, kissing the threshold, and cried out with
a loud voice to them as they sat, all health! ye gods! the saviours !
not sparing any high-soaring compliments of unmanly flattery and
effeminacy. And moreover, making a speech in the senate agree-
able to his sordid deportment, he proceeded so far as is a shame for
me to write. But the senate being offended at many things he said,
returned him an answer suitable to his flatteries. For the Romans are
eager chiefly to conquer a stout and courageous enemy,
* Marcus Antonius.--Liv, lib. 45. 1 King of Bithynia.
VOL. 2. No. 45.
0000
650
THE FRAGMENTS OF
23. Ambassadors came to Rome both from the younger and the
elder Ptolemy. An account of affairs being given to those in the as.
sembly, the senate, upon hearing of part, decreed_That the ambassa-
dors from the elder Ptolemy* should depart out of Italy within five
days at most, and the confederacy be broken off. But that ambas.
sadors should be sent to the younger Ptolemyt to declare to him the
good will of the senate, and those things that had been signified to
his brother.
24. About the one hundred and fifty-fifth olympiad, ambassadors
came from Ariarathest bringing a crown of the value of ten thousand
pieces of gold, signifying the good will the king bore to the Romans,
and that upon their account he had prohibited marriage and amity
with Demetrius; which was attested and confirmed by the ambas-
sadors from Greece. The senate commended Ariarathes, and ac-
cepted the crown, and sent back to him such presents | as were of
greatest esteem among the Romans.
25. At the same time ambassadors came from Demetrius bringing
Hikewise a crown of the value of ten thousand pieces of gold, and
those prisoners that were guilty of the murder of Octavius: but the
senate had a long debate, what was best and most advisable to do io
these concerns; at last tbey accepted the crowi), but would not re-
ceive Isocrates and Leptines that were offered to be delivered up
to them.
26. The Celtiberians,** after the victory, wisely foreseeing what
would follow, sent ambassadors to the consul to treat for peace, but he
looking upon it necessary to keep up the grandeur and magnanimity
of his country, made answer. That they must either give up all to
the Romans, or else be victors in the war.
27. When the Romans were at war with the Carthaginians, the
Carthaginians hearing that they were sailing to Lilybæum, and not
in the least making a descent upon them, sent ambassadors to Rome,
and by them delivered up both themselves, and all the concerns of
their country to the Romans. The senate accepting the surrender
of their country, gave this answer._-"Since the Carthaginians are so
well advised, the senate returns them their country, their laws, their
temples, their sepulchres, their liberties, and their estates;" (not at
all mentioning their city Carthage, for that was concealed under
* Ptolemy Plilometor. + Prolemy Evergetes.
King of Cappadocia.
A staff and an ivory chariot, or chair of state.--Polyb. Leg. 121,
ſ Isocrates, the grammarian, defended it.-Polyb. Leg. 122. 114.
Leptines stabbed Crcius Octavius, the Roman legate, ai Landices,
** Spaniards.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
651
these kind concessions), if they would give three hundred sons of the
senators as hostages, and obey the commands of the consuls. The
Carthaginians, thinking hereby to be free from the war, sent the hos-
tages*, pot without great lamentation. Afterwards the consuls came
to Uticat, and the Carthaginians again sent ambassadors to ask what
further coinmands the Romans would lay upon them; but when the
consuls told them they must deliver up their arins and engines with-
out fraud, they at first (because of the war against Asdrubalt) took it
heavily: however, they brought in two hundred thousand arms of all
sorts, and two thousand engines. Afterwards the Romans again sent
commands to the Carthaginians, to send some persons of their se-
nate, to whom they would declare their further command, who ac-
cordingly sent thirty of the noblest. Manilius the senior consul told
them, that it was the senate's pleasure they should leave the city
they inhabited, and build another eighty furlongs distant from the
sea: but the ambassadors crying out for mercy and compassion, all
of them cast themselves to the ground, uttering many lamentable
complaints with tears, upon which great confusion was raised in the
assembly; and when the Carthaginians were a little recovered out of
their consternation, one only, named Blanuus, delivering himself in
the natural language of the auditory, debated the matter with great
heat and earnestoess, attended with an undaunted presence of mind,
which moved the auditors to pity and commisseration.
28. The Romans being unmoveable in their decrees as to the raz-
ing of Carthage, the senate commanded them forth with to depart
10 Carthage, and to declare to the citizens what things were decreed;
but some of the ambassadors refusing to return to their country, fled
tach of them wherever they could; the rest, choosing rather to re-
zurn, went home, having thus finished a doleful embassy. When the
people came thronging together to meet them, they gave them not a
word, but, beating their heads, stretching out their hands, and invoq
eating their gods, they went on to the court, and informed the senate
what things were commanded,
29. The Aradians, supposing they had got an opportunity to de-
stroy those of Marathosĝ, sent privately to Ammonius, viceroy of
the kingdomll, and, with a bribe of three hundred talents, prevailed
with him to deliver up Marathos; whereupon Ammonius sent Isa--
dore to the Marathonians, who by his speech was to pretend some
other matters, but in truth went to seize upon the city, and to deliver
it up to the Aradians. The Marathonians, being ignorapt that they
а
To Lilybawin.
+ See Eutrop. lib. 4. Flor, lib. 2. c. 15. Livy, I pitom. lib. 49,
* Their general. A city of Phænicia,
· ] Of Syria, under Alexande: Bala.
652
THE FRAGMENTS OF
were designed for destruction, yet observing that the Aradians were
higher in the king's favour than themselves, refused the king's sol-
diers entrance into their city, and resolved to make their addresses as
suppliants to the Aradians. They forth with therefore sent ten of the
most eminent of their eldest citizens as ambassadors to Aradus*, who
brought with them an humble address and supplication, and the old-
est images of their gods which they had in their city, hoping that
upon the account of their kindred, and moved with reverence to their
gods, the Aradians would be appeased, and their anger diverted. As
soon as they landed, according to the commands given, they addressed
themselves as suppliants to the people; but the Aradians being in-
censed, they slighted the usual and common laws of suppliants, and
cast off all reverence of their kindred's images, and their gods, and
therefore broke the images, and trampled them most shamefully un-
der their feet, and attempted to stone the ambassadors; but some
of the senators interposing themselves between them and the rage of
the people (scarce restrained from stoning them, notwithstanding the
reverence they owed the senators) commanded them to be conveyed
to prison.
30. The Numantianst and Termissianst sent ambassadors to the
Romans, to treat of a peace, which was granted to them upon these
conditions_That they should each deliver up their cities to the
Romans, three hundred hostages, nine hundred soldier's coats, three
hundred hides, eight hundred war-horses, and all their arms, and that
they should be friends and allies to the Romans. There being a day
appointed for the performance of these conditions by the cities, all
was done according to the articles; but when at last it came to the
delivering up of their arms, there arose a certain generous regret and
lamentation, and a courageous resolution in the populace to regain
their liberties. Therefore they were angry one at another that they
should ever consent that they should, like women, strip themselves
of their arms: wherefore, repenting of those things that were de-
creed, the fathers accused their sons, children their parents, and
women their husbands; and so, coming to themselves again, re-
solving not to deliver up their arms, they renewed the war against the
Romans.
31. Tryphong from a private man being made king, endeavoured
all he could to establish the government in himself by a decree of the
senate : wherefore, preparing a golden medal of victory weighing ten
* An island over against Phænicia. + Numantia in Spain.
| Germissum in Spain. --See Patercul. lib. 2. c. 4.
$ Called Diodotus, one of Alexander Bala's commanders, king of Syria.--1 Mace. 11,
39. c. 13. v. 31, 32. Liv. lib. 52, 55.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
653
thousand crowns, he sent ambassadors to Rome, to present it to the
people, not doubting but that he should obtain from them the ap-
:
pellation of king, considering that the present which he sent was not
only very rich in itself, but one whose name carried along with it the
happy prognostication of victory. But he found the senate far more
subtle than himself, whose prudence prompted them to a dislike of
those that deceitfully circumvent others: for they received the pre-
sent, and the good omen, together with the profit; but, instead of
Tryphon's name, the senate decreed that the title of the king* who
was treacherously murdered should be engraven upon it; and by, so
doing they approved themselves haters of his wickedness in mur-
dering of the child, and such as would not accept of the preseuts of
wicked men.
32. There came with Scipio Africanus other ambassadors to Alex-
andria, to view the whole kingdom. Ptolemyt met them in pomp
and state, with a great retinue, and feasted them sumptuously, and,
going about with them, shewed them his palace and treasury. But
theyf, being persons eminent for virtue, contented themselves with
a spare diet, and such as was wholesome, scorning that rich provision,
as prejudicial both to mind and body. As for those things which
the king esteemed as rarities and admirable, they only glanced their
eyes upon them, and looked on them as things of no value: but
what was really worth their eyeing, those things they viewed most
exactly; as the situation of the city, and its capacity, and particularly
the Phaross, and what belonged thereunto. Thence likewise they
sailed to Memphis, and took notice of the goodness of the country,
the conveniencies of the river Nile, the number of the cities, the in-
finite thousands of inhabitants, the fortification || of Egypt, and the
excellence of the country, how well it was provided, both as to the
security and extent of an empire: and, baving admired bo
pulousness of Egypt, and the convenience of the places therein, they
were of opinion that the kingdom of Egypt would easily swell into a
vast empire, if it once had masters answerable. After the ambassa-
dors had well viewed Egypt, they went to Cyprus, and from thence
into Syria. In short, they passed through most parts of the world:
and, carrying themselves soberly, to admiration in all places wherever
they came, they gained exceeding honour and reputation; and, tra-
the po-
• Antiochus Theos, Alexander Bala's son, whose guardian Tryphon was. See
Justin, lib. 36. c. 1.
+ Ptolemy Evergetes, the second surnamed Physcon.
$ P. Scipio Africanus, Spurius Mummius, L. Metellus.--See Cicero in Somnio Scip.
f The Pharos at Alexandria, which gave light to seamen in the night.
Natural fortification. -See Livy, Epit. lib. 59.
654
THE FRAGMENTS OF
velling through most parts of the world, with the general applause
of all, they returned home. For those that were at difference, they
reconciled one to another; others they persuaded to 'do right and
justice to those that complained against them; those that were im-
pudently obstinate they were necessitated to curb and restrain by
force; and such causes as were difficult to be determined they trans-
mitted to the senate. Conferring both with kings and their people,
and renewing all former leagues, they increased the love of all sorts
to the Roman government; and so all applying themselves in their
several countries to choose fit persons, they sent ambassadors to Rome,
and highly applauded the delegates with Scipio, and the senate for
employing such men.
33. Bocchus, king of Libya, having sharply rebuked those that
would have persuaded him to make war upon the Romans, sent com-
mi sioners to Marius, craving pardon for his crimes, and desiring to
enter into a league, made many promises to be serviceable to the Ro-
mans for the time to come. But Marius ordering him to send am-
bassadors to the senate, to treat of these matters, the king observed
his directions, and sent accordingly. Upon which the senate an-
swerein. That Bocchus should in every respect be received into grace
aud farur, if he could prevail with Marius. Marius, desirous 10
bave Jugu, ihn at the king his prisoner, Bocchus, willing to serve him,
sent für Jugurtha, as if he would discourse with him about business
of concern to them both, and by this means seized him, and delivered
him bound to Lucius Sylla the questor, who was sent out for that
purpose; and so, by the misfortune of this prince, he bought his own
safety, and escaped punishment from the Romans.
34 Ambassadors came from king Mithridates to Rome, with a
great sum of money, in hopes by that to corrupt the senate. · Satur-
ninust, thinking that now he had an advantage against the senate,
reproached and abused the embassy at a great rate; the senators in-
stigated the ambassadors, and promised to assist them, wlio there-
upon called Saturninus in question for this abuse. There being then
raised a mighty popular tumult, by reason of the violation of the am-
bassadors, and of that coustant abhorrence the Romans have of such
notorious affronts, Saturninus (who was now condemned to die by
the senate, his proper judges in such cases) fell into most racking
fears and perplexities; and, because of the great commotions and tu-
mults that were raised, in a consternation he betook himself for shel:
.
* King of Numidia, father-in-law of Bocchus.-See Liv. Epit. lib. 62, 64, 65, 66.
Flor, lib. 3. c. 1.
+ L. Appulcius Saturninus, a tribune of the people, hated the senate upon formez grudges
See Flor. lib. 3. c. 16. Livy Epitom. lib. 69.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
655
ter to the pity those commouly find that are unfortunate; therefore,
throwing off his rich apparel, putting on a mean and sordid habit,
and suffering bis beard to grow, he ran up and down to the tumul-
tuous throngs of people throughout the city, falling down upon his
knees to some, catching others fast by the hands, begging with tears
that they would assist him in his present calamities, declaring that
he was factiously oppressed by the senate against all right and jus-
tice, and suffered all this for the good will he bore the people; that
the senate were his enemies, accusers, and judges. The mob here-
upou, being all in an upruar, (affected by bis prayers and entreaties),
many thousands of them ran to the tribunal, and unexpectedly for
that time rescued him; and, with the assistance of the people, he
was agaio declared tribune.
35. Mark Antony* made a peace with the Cretans, which they kept
for some time; but afterwards, calling together a general council to
consider what was most advisable for them to do in order to their ad-
vantage, the more antient and prudent amongst them counselled to
send ambassadors to Rome, to make defence against those accusa-
tionst that were brought agaibst thein, and, by fair words and en-
treaties, to work upon the senate for a reconciliation. To this end
they despatched thirty chosen out of the most eminent men as
ambassadors, who, privately visiting the senators at their several
houses, and courting them with fine words, secured those that made
up the assembly; and, being introduced into the senate, they made
their defence against the matters objected against them with great
prudence, exactly setting forth their good services, and their associa-
tions with the senate, desiring that they might be restored to their
former amity and confederacy. The senate, pleased with what they
said, gave forth a decree, by which they not only acquitted the Cre-
tans of the crimes laid to their charge, but declared them confede-
rates and friends to the state. But Lentulus, surnamed Spinther,
got the decree reversed; however, the Cretans were dismissed. But
the senate had often debates concerning the Cretans, alleging, and at
length concluding, that they joined with the pirates, and were shar-
ers in the robberies; and therefore they decreed that the Cretans
should send in all their ships to Rome, even to a skiff of four oars,
and resign the three hundred famous hostagest, and send away
Las.
• The father of Mark Antony, who married Cleopatra.–See Liv. Epit. lib. 97, was
routed at sea by the Cretans.
The senate bad decreed war against them, because they assisted Mithridates by their
piracies.--- Appian, leg. 30. Dio. leg. 37.
| Those they had of the Romans.--See Dion. leg. 97,
656
THE FRAGMENTS OF
thenes* and Panares, and amongst them pay four thousand talents
of silver. The Cretans, hearing what was decreed, went into a con-
sultation about these commands imposed upon them; and the more
prudent amongst them advised that they should be observant in all
things enjoined on them: but those that were of Lasthenes's party,
and guilty of the same crimes, and fearing lest, being sent for to
Rome, they should be there punished for their offences, stirred up
the people to a sedition, advising them to maintain those liberties
that they had ever, time out of mind, enjoyed.
* Lasthenes had fouglit with Antonius.
1
THE SUPPLEMENT
TO
DIODORUS SICULUS,
REFERRED TO
IN BOOK XVII._Vol. 2. PAGES 226, 227.
VOL. 2. No. 48.
PPPP
2
659
DIODORUS SICULUS.
SUPPLEMENT.
SUP. I.
Alexander, marching through a dry country, loses many of his
soldiers for wunt of water.Curtius, lib. vii. c. 5.
ALEXANDER himself, with a band of light-armed men, marching
all the night, entered the deserts of Susiana*. The total want of
water, with the thoughts of their desperate condition, (as is before
declared), inflamed their thirst before they had a real desire to drink;
for, for the space of four hundred furlongs, not the least lake, or any
thing that was moist, appeared. The scorching sun fired the sands,
which, when inflamed, burnt up all round about like a raging fire:
hence, through the excessive heat of the earth, arose a mist which ob-
scured the light, and all the plain seemed no other than as if it had
been the vast ocean.
Their march in the night was tolerable, because their bodies were
refreshed by the dew and coldness of the air, before the rising of the
sun; but when light appeared, the heat began, and drought dried
up
all their natural moisture, so that both their mouths, and their very
entrails, were altogether parched up with scorching heat; and there-
fore first their spirits, and then their bodies, began to faint It was
grievous to them either to stand still or go forward. Some few of
them, by the help of those who knew the country, had got water,
which quenched their thirst for a little while; but the heat increas-
ing, their desire of drink was again the more inflamed; and therefore
whoever had any wine or oil, it was instantly guzzled down, and the
present pleasure of drinking was so great, that it banished all fear of
thirst for the future. Those that had thus swelled themselves with
immoderate drinking, could neither carry their arms, nor march for-
ward; and those seemed to be in a far better condition who wanted
* Mistaken by Curtius for the deserts of Sogdiana,
660
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
water, than they who, by pouring it down to excess, were forced to
vomit it up again. Those that were about the king, seeing him
grieved and much perplexed with these misfortunes, entreated him to
mind and take care of himself; for his courage was the only life and
relief of his drooping army. While they were thus advising him, two
of those that were sent before to mark out a convenient place where
to encamp, came with water in their vessels for the use of their chil-
dren who were in the army, and whom they knew were not able to
hold out without drink: these meeting the king, one of them opened
his vessel, and filled a cap which he had with him, and offered it to
the king, who received it, but asked him for whom the water was
brought, who answered_That it was for his children: upon which,
returning the
cup
full as it was “ I cannot find in my heart,” says
he, “ to drink it alone, and it is too little to be divided amongst
them all; away therefore with all speed, and give it your children,
for whom it was brought.” At length he came to the river Oxus,
about evening, but a great part of the army was left behind: he
commanded therefore fires to be kindled upon a high mountain, that
those who followed slowly after might know they were not far from
He commanded likewise those that were in the van
(having sufficiently refreshed themselves both with meat and drink)
to fill all sorts of vessels wherein water might be carried, and help
their companions that were behind. But those who drank immode-
.
rately quenched their natural beat by surfeit, and died presently, by
which means he lost far more men than he had done before in any
battle.
the camp.
SUP. II.
Alexander destroyed all the Branchida, (as traitors to the Gre-
cians), whom antiently the Persians forced to remove from their
own habitations to the farthest part of the kingdom.Curtius,
lib, vii. c. 6.
HE came to a little town where the Branchidæ inhabited, who
heretofore removed from Miletus, by the command of Xerxes, when
he returned out of Greece, and settled themselves in this place: they
were those who violated the temple called Didymæus*, to ingratiate
* Gave Xeracs the riches that were in it.---Strabo, lib. 14.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
661
themselves with Xerxes. The customs and manners of their coun-
try were not as yet wholly laid aside, but they spoke a kind of broken
language, neither perfect Greek nor barbarian. They therefore re-
,
ceived the king very joyfully, and gave up themselves and their city
into his hands. He thereupon called together the Milesians that
were in his army, who bore an old grudge and inveterate hatred
against the Branchidæ, and left it therefore to these Milesians,
whose ancestors had been betrayed by them, to do with them what
they thought fit, either to remember the injury, and so revenge them-
selves; or, considering the original of the Branchidæ, who were
their countrymen, upon that account to spare them. When they
could not agree amongst themselves what to resolve upon, the king
told them, that he himself would take time to consider what was fit-
test to be done. The next day the Branchida meeting him, he
ordered them to go along with him; and when he came to the city,
he entered the gate with a select detachment, having in the mean
time ordered the phalanx to surround the walls, and, upon a sign
given, to raze the city to the ground, which had been a nest for the
traitors, and to put them all to the sword, man, woman, and child.
Hereupon, being all disarmed, they were knocked on the head in
every place up and down, and no stop could be put to their cruelty
by nearness of language, or the prayers and entreaties of the poor and
miserable people.
At length they razed the walls to the very bottom of the founda-
tion, that there might not remain so much as the least sign where it
had once stood. Neither stopped they here; for they not only cut
down, but rooted up the sacred groves, that they might leave all a vast
and solitary desert, barren, without so much as a root in the ground;
which executions, had they been inflicted upon the first actors of the
treason, might have been judged a just revenge, and not the effects
of cruelty, as they seemed to be; for now the posterity, who had never
so much as seen Miletus, (and therefore could not betray it to
Xerxes), suffered for the faults of their ancestors.
662
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
SUP. III.
The king led his army against the Sogdians and Scythians.
Arrianus, lib. iv.
IN the mean time the barbarians that bordered next to the river, sur-
prised the Macedonians who were placed in garrisons in Scythia, and
put them all to the sword, and fortified the cities, for their greater
security. Many of the Sogdians joined with them in the defection,
being solicited thereunto by those that had seized upon Bessus, wlio
likewise drew away after them some of the Bactrians, either because
they were afraid of Alexander, or because (as they gave the reason
for their rebellion) Alexander had summoned a senate of the gover-
nors of the province to meet at Zariaspa, the greatest city there, from
which convention they saw no ground to hope for any good to them-
selves. When intelligence was brought to Alexander of these things,
he forthwith commanded his foot in every regiment to prepare scaling
ladders; and he himself marched away with his army to a city called
Gaza, which was next to the camp, and lay first in his way; for it
was said the barbarians had fled into seven towns of that country.
He sent Craterus to Cyropolis, the greatest of all the cities, and in
which a great number of the barbarians had sheltered themselves.
The king commanded him to encamp near the city, and to fortify his
camp with a trench and wall drawn round, and place sueh engines
upon his bulwarks as he saw occasion to use, that the townsmen,
being busy in assaulting Craterus, might have no leisure to coine in
to the assistance of other cities. The king himself, as soon as he
came to Gaza, forthwith at the first approach commanded his men
to set scaling ladders round the walls, which were but of earth, and
not very high. Upon which the slingers, darters, and archers, to-
gether with the foot, made an assault, plied and galled them that de-
tended the walls with their darts, and shot out of the engines; so that
by showers of darts and arrows the wall was presently cleared of its
defendants, and the scaling-ladders in a trice were set to the walls,
and the Macedonians entered, and put all the men to the sword, (for
so Alexander had commanded), but the women and children, with
the rest of the prey, they carried away. Thence the king forthwith
marched to another city, (fortified much like unto Gaza), which he
took much after the same manuer the very same day, and dealt with
the prisoners after the same manner as with them at Gaza. After
DIODORUS SICULUS.
663
this he made to a third city, which he took the next day, upon the
first assault.
In the mean time, while he was reducing these cities with his foot,
he sent away his horse to two other neighbouring cities, with orders
to watch them, lest the inhabitants, hearing of the taking of the cities
bordering upon them, and of the king's near approach, should fly and
leave the cities, so that he should not be able to pursue with any
hopes of overtaking them. And indeed it fell out as he thought,
which evidenced the sending forth of the horse to be necessary: for
the barbarians, who still were possessed of two other cities, seeing the
sinoke of the city which was burnt, and was over against them,
(besides some who escaped out of the overthrow brought them news
of the city being taken), with all speed in whole droves fled out of the
cities, and fell in among the horse that were sent forth, and multi-
tudes of them were knocked on the head.
The king having taken and razed these five towns in the space of
two days, marched away to Cyropolis, the greatest of their cities.
The walls of this city were higher than any of the rest; the town be-
ing built by Cyrus: avd, forasmuch as there were many stout men
and good soldiers, the inhabitants of the country were got together
into this place. The Macedonians could not easily (like the other
places) take it at the first assault; and therefore Alexander ordered,
that with the battering-rams and other engines they should batter the
walls, and wherever any breach was made, there forthwith to make
an assault. But the king, observing the channel of the river (which
ran through the city like a little brook) to be then dry, and not con-
tiguous or near the walls, but affording a direct passage for his sol-
diers into the city, he took with him his guard, targeteers, archers,
and the Agrians, (the barbarians being then busy in observing the
engines, and those that managed them), and secretly with a few at
first entered through the channel into the city, and broke down the
gates that were in that part, and readily let in the rest of the sol-
diers: upon which the barbarians, perceiving the city to be entered,
nevertheless fell upon Alexander's soldiers, and fought stoutly and
resolutely, in which conflict Alexander received a blow on his head
and neck with a stone. Craterus, and many others, were wounded
with darts and arrows; but at length the barbarians were driven out
of the market-place. In the mean time those that assaulted the walls
entered, all being clear of those that should have defended them. In
the first conflict, at the entering of the city, there were slain of the
enemy about eight thousand, the rest (for they were above eighteen
thousand who had put themselves there) fled into the castle, who,
after one day's siege, for want of water, surrendered themselves. The
a
664
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
seventh city the king took at the first assault: Ptolemy indeed says
that it was surrendered; but Aristobulus relates, that it was taken by
storm, and that all in it were put to the sword. Ptolemy writes, that
all the prisoners were distributed in the army, and ordered to be kept
bound till the king left the country, lest any one of them that revolted
should be left behind.
While these things were on foot, the army of the Asiatic Scythians
came to the banks of the river Tanais*, because they heard that some
of the barbarians inhabiting beyond the river had revolted from
Alexander; and their aim therefore was, that if there were any con-
siderable defection, they likewise might act their part in falling upon
the Macedonians. At the same time intelligence was brought, that
Spitamenes had besieged those that were left in garrison in the cas-
tle of Patachades. Alexander therefore sent Andromachus, Mede-
menus, and Caranus against Spitamenes, with sixty horse of the so-
cial band, and eight hundred of the mercenaries, who were under
the command of Caranus; but of foot there were fifteen hundred
mercenaries: with them the king joined in commission one Phar-
nuches for an interpreter, a Lycian by nation, who was well skilled
in the language of the barbarians, and therefore was judged a bit per-
san to transact matters with them.
The king having, in the space of twenty days, walled the cityt he
had before designed to build, gave it the Greek mercenaries, to be
inhabited by them, and to such neighbouring barbarians as had a
mind to remove their habitations, and dwell there, and to some of the
Macedonians that were unable, and unfit to bear arms.
Afterwards, having sacrificed to the.gods after the manner of his
couniry, and exhibited the Gymnic sports and horse-courses, find-
ing that the Scythians did not march back and leave the river, but
threw their darts over, (for it was there very narrow), and, after their
barbarous manner, gave out most opprobrious and railing language
against Alexander, as, that he durst not fight with the Scythians;
and if he did, he should find by experience how great a difference
there was between the Scythians and the barbarous Asiatics. The
king, being provoked at these things, resolved to pass the river, and
fall upon them, and commanded leather boats to be made ready for
that purpose. Having therefore sacrificed for his good success, the
entrails of the beasts promised nothing that was prosperous, which
made biin very uneasy, but he bore it very patiently, and staid there,
The Scythians still continuing their slight and contemptuous lan-
• Not Tanais, which falls into the Lake Nixotis, but another called Iaxartes.- See
Pl. Nat. Ilist, 1. 6. c. 16.
+ Called Alexandria, upon the baubs of laxartes, improperly called Tanaide
DIODORUS SICULUS.
665
guage, he again sacrificed, and when Aristander the soothsayer de-
elared that danger was portended, Alexander answered. It was bet-
ter to undergo the most extreme hazard, than for him, who had con-
quered all Asia, to be a scorn, a mocking-stock to the Scythians, as
Darius, the father of Xerxes, was heretofore. Aristander, on the
other side, replied, that he would not declare any thing to the king,
but what was portended by the gods, though Alexander had rather
hear other things. However, Alexander's boats being now ready,
and his army standing all in arms at the river's brink, he ordered,
that upon a sign given they should discharge the engines against the
Scythians that rode over against them from the other side; which
done, some of them were wounded with the darts, and one of them
especially was pierced with a dart through his buckler and breast-
plate, and fell down dead from his horse. But the barbarians being
terrified with darts that wounded them at so great a distance, and
with the fall of that valiant man, by degrees drew off farther from
the bank of the river. Alexander discerning them to be in disorder
by the strokes of the darts, with sound of trumpet passed over the
river at the head of his army; and the archers and slingers being first
sent over, he commanded them to ply the Scythians nith their slings
and arrows, lest they should fall in upon the phalanx as they were
passing over, before all his body of horse had recovered the other
side. When all had now gained the farther bank of the river, he first
fell upon the Scythians with one of the squadrons of the Social Re-
giment, and four regiments of those that were armed with sarissas*,
whose shock the Scythians bravely bore up against, and surrounded
them with their horse; so that many overpowering them, who were
but few, the Scythians easily kept themselves whole and entire.
Alexander thereupon mixing bis archers and Agrians, and other select
troops, (over whom Balacrus had the compand), fell in upon the
Scythians, and, being now on both sides mixed together, the king
ordered three squadrons of horse of the Social Band, and all his horse
that were darters, to charge in upon the Scythians; and he himself,
at the head of the rest of the horse, made straight upon them, so that
how they were not able any longer to keep their horse in a ring, as
before; for the horse pressed sore upon them at the same time, and
the light-armed men, being mixed with the horse, they suffered not
the enemy with any safety to wheel about with their horse to surround
them. Upon which the Scythians were put to a total fight; and a-
bout a thousand killed, and a hundred and fifty taken prisoners,
amongst whom was Satrices; one of their two generals.
• Macedonian lances.
Vom, 2. No. 48
0000
666
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
SUP. IV.
The Sogdian noblemen, being led forth to be put to death, were
unexpectedly preserved.Curtius, lib. vii. c. 10.
SOME of the prisoners of the Sogdians, of noble birth,
and
proper
handsome men, were brought before the king; who, as soon as they
widerstood by an interpreter that they were to die, they began to
sing, skip, and dance, as men transported with joy, using many lase
civious gestures of their bodies. The king admiring the greatness of
their courage at the approach of death, commanded them to be
brought to him, and asked them, why they were so excessively merry,
when death was even before their eyes? who answered_That if they
had been put to death by any other's command, they should have
been as sad at the apprehension of death as other men; but since
they were sent out of the world by so great a king, who was conqueror
of the world, they celebrated their honourable death (which all va-
liant men wish for) with songs of mirth and jollity, after the custom
and manner of their country. The king, wondering at their courage,
asked them, whether they would not be his enemies, if he were so
kind and generous as to suffer them to live: they answered. They
never were his enemies, but, as invaded, opposed him to defend
theinselves; and if any made trial of them by fair means, and not by
force and injury, they would exert themselves to the utmost, that
none should exceed them in grateful offices of respect. Then he
asked them what pledges they would give of loyalty? they replied
Their lives, which they had received from him, and which they would
give him up again upon his demand. Nor did they fail, by breach
of promise: for those that returned into their own country kept their
countrymen in due obedience; four of them, whom he kept for
squires of his body proved as true and faithful to the king as any of
the Macedonians,
DIODORUS SICULUS.
667
SUP. V.
Alexander punished the Bactrians, and subdued the Sogdians a
second time, and built cities in convenient places to punish the
revolters.. Arrianus, lib. iv,
ALEXANDER himself marched again to the river Oxus; for he
resolved to march against the Sogdians, having heard that many of
them had put themselves into forts and castles, and refused to obey
the provincial governors the king had placed over them. At the time
he was encamped near the river Oxus, two springs rose out of the
earth, near to Alexander's pavilion, the one of water, and the other
of oil: of which prodigy Ptolemy Lagus forthwith informed the king
as soon as he heard of it: whereupon Alexander without delay, at the
command of the priest, sacrificed. Aristander the priest told the
king, that the fountain of oil portended labour, but victory at last,
the fruit of toil and pain. Marching therefore away with part of his
army against the Sogdians, he left in Bactria Polyperchon, Attalus,
Gorgias, and Meleager, to be a guard in that country, both to keep
them in obedience that were reduced, and to subdue the others who
had fallen off from their allegiance. Having divided his army into
five parts, he gave the command of three of them to Hephæstion; a
fourth part to Cænus and Artabazus: he himself, with the fifth, en-
tered the country leading towards Maracanda. The rest entered
wherever each of them could, and stormed the forts of those who had
possessed themselves of them, and others they took in upon surren,
der. After all, the forces (having first ran over the greatest part of
the country) joined together at Maracanda; he sent forth Hephæs-
tion to bring colonies into the cities of the Sogdians: Cenus and
Artabazus he ordered against the Scythians, because he heard that
Spitamenes was fled to them. He himself with the rest of the army
entering into Sogdiana, easily reduced the rest of the cities that had
revolted.
668
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
SUP. VI.
The Sogdians revolted a third time; and they that betook them.
selves to the top of the rock were taken...Arrianus, lib. iv.
AFTERWARDS, at the beginning of the spring, he marched to a
rock to which he heard many of the Sogdians had fled; and here it
was said that the wife and daughters of Oxyartes* had sheltered
themselves: for Oxyartes placed them here as in a hold that was im-
pregnable, he himself being one that had revolted from Alexander.
And the king was the more earnest, because that, when this rock was
taken, there appeared no fort left in Sogdiana that could encourage
them 10 a defection. When he came to the ruck, he found it steep
and inaccessible on every side, and that the barbarians had brought
in provision for a long siege, and that the depth of the show, as it
made the approach of the Macedoniaos more difficult, so it furnished
the barbarians with plenty of water. However Alexander resolved
to assault the rock. The proud and contemptuous answer likewise
of the barbarians stirred up rage and anıbition in Alexander at one
and the same time. For whereas at a parley with them he promised
them, that if they would surrender, they should all have liberty to
return safely home; they barbarously scoffed at him, and bid him
seek some soldiers that had wings, who might thus take the rock, for
they feared no other mortals. Upon which Alexander commanded
proclamation to be made by an herald_That he would bestow twelve
talents as a reward upon him that should first mount the rock, aod so
the second, and the third, in their due order, should every one re-
ceive a reward, till it came to the last that ascended the rock, who
should receive three hundred darics; the hopes of which reward
stirred up the Macedonians, who were eager before to fall upon them
of their own accord. Three hundred, therefore, of those that were
accustomed to climb rocks being drawn out, they furnished them-
selves with crampirovs, (wherewith they fastened their tents), that
they might fix them in the snow where it was hard frozen, and in
other parts of the rock where there was no snow, and to them they
tied strong cords, and in the night made to that part of the rock
Curtius calls him Arimares, lib. vii. c. 11: for by Strabo, Oxyartes bad placed his
daughters in Sisimithræ, a rock in Bactria, where Alexander married one of them, nained
Roxana.-Strabo, lib. xi. p. 517.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
669
that was steepest and highest, and therefore, as they conceived, least
guarded; and with the cramps, some fastened in the rock, and others
in the snow that was frozen, they scrambled up from place to place
till they gained the top: but of these, thirty perished in endeavour-
ing to get up, so that their bodies could not be found to be buried,
being lost in the depth of the snow; the rest about break of day re-
covered the top, and by shaking of the linen clothes gave notice to
the army that they had gained the place, for that sign Alexander had
commanded them: upon which a trumpeter was forthwith sent out
with cominand to the Barbarians that they should without any fur-
ther delay surrender themselves, for that he had now found soldiers
that had wings, who had possessed themselves of the top of the rock;
and at the same time the soldiers that had gained the rock, presented
themselves in view to the Barbarians, who being amazed at such an
unexpected sight, supposing them to be more, and better armed
than indeed they were, gave up themselves; the sight of a few Ma-
cedonians was so terrible to them. There were there taken prison-
ers many of the wives and children of the Barbarians, and amongst
them the wife and daughters of Oxyartes: Oxyartes's son likewise,
who was about the age of nine years.
SUP. VII.
Of the hunting in Buhastis, and the multitude of wild beasts there.
Curtius, lib. vij. c. 1.
HAVING given a gracious audience to the ambassadors, he stayed
waiting for Hephæstion and Artabazus, who having afterwards joined
him, he came into the country called Bazaria. Of the riches of the
barbarians in those places, there can be no greater argument, than
the multitude of stately wild beasts that range in large woods and
forests in that country. The frequent spacious woods pleasantly
watered with many refreshing springs. They are walled round, in
which are built towers for stands to view the hunting of the beasts.
One of these chases had remained free and untouched for the space
of four generations, which Alexander entering with his army, he
commanded the game in all parts to be rouzed; amongst wilien,
when a lion of a vast bigness set upon the king, Lysimachus, who
was afterwards king*, happening to be next to Alexander, offered to
* Of Thrace.
670
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
make at the beast with his hunting spear, the king put him by, and
bid him be gone, adding that the lion might be killed by himself as
well as by Lysimachus. This Lysimachus had before, in a hunting
in Syria, killed an exceeding great lion with his own hand, but he
had been even at the point of death, his left shoulder having been,
in that encounter, rent and torn even to the very bone. The king,
twitting him with this, shewed more valour afterwards in action than
he did before in this expression; for he not only stood the beast, but
killed him at one blow. The story that was foolishly spread abroad
that the king gave up Lysimachus to be devoured by a lion, rose, I
believe, from this accident before related, but the Macedonians,
though the king was thus happily delivered, yet according to the
custom of their country, established a decree, that he should not
hunt on fout without a guard of his captains and friends. The king
having killed four thousand brave wild beasts, feasted with bis whole
army in the forest.
SUP. VII.
Alexander's offence against Bacchus, and his murder of Clitus in
his
cups.-Arrianus, lib. iv.
TO declare in this place the death of Clitus, and the foul act of
Alexander in that matter, though it happened some little time after,
yet I judge it not altogether out of course. The Macedonians, it is
said, have a certain day sacred to Bacchus, and Alexander was ac-
customed to sacrifice to Bacchus every year upon that day; but at
that time he neglected Bacchus, and sacrificed to Castor and Pollux;
aud from that time he appointed sacrifice to them, with feasting al-
ways at that day. And whereas, now the company had been a con-
siderable time quaffing and carouzing, (for Alexander had now learn-
ed to imitate the Barbarians in his cups,) and all were heated with
wine, a discourse happened concerning the Dioscuri", how to de-
rive their original from Jupiter, and set aside that of Tindarus; soine
who were present to flatter the king, which sort of creatures are
ever pernicious both to the persons and concerns of kings, and are
ever at hand, delivered their judgment that Castor and Pollux were
not in the least respect to be compared to Alexander, and his brave
* Castor and Pollux,
DIODORUS SICULUS,
671
did not spare
and noble actions: others in their
cups
Hercules him-
self, but said that envy was the cause that debarred mortals from
the honours that were due to them from those among whom they
conversed. But Clitus who ever heretofore hated Alexander's imi-
tation of the manners of the barbarians, and the discourses of his
flatterers, having now his spirits something raised with wine, was
not able to bear those contempts cast upon the gods, nor that by un-
dervaluing those acts of the ancient heroes, so thankless a piece of
service should be paid to the king. And declared that Alexander
had neither done such wonderful things as they cried him up for,
neither did he do any of them himself alone, but the praise of a
great number of them was due to the valour of the Macedonians.
But Alexander was much enraged at these words of Clitus; neither
indeed, can commend him in what he said, for I am of opinion it
had been much more prudent for him in this time of carouzing to
have held his peace, as well as to forbear joining with others in this
sordid vice of flattery: and whereas some called to mind the acts of
Philip, and did all they could most unjustly to bear down and make
slight of all he did as nothing it all memorable, in the mean time
caressing and extolling of Alexunder, Clitus now not himself, began
to advance the actions of Philip, and vilify Alexander and his achieve
ments: and cast it in the kings teeth, now raging like a madman,
amongst other things, how he had at the river Granicus, in the
charge, in the horse engagement preserved him, and impudently
stretching out his right hand, cried out_" This hand, O Alexander,
preserved thy life in that battle:" Alexander not being able longer
to endure the unbridled passion of Clitus, or his base language, or
his reproaches cast upon him, in a rage leaped out towards him, but
was held back by them that were round about him; on the other
hand Clitus let fly all the reproachful words he could devise, sur-
passing all bounds. The king with a loud voice called out for the
Argyraspides, and no man regarding him, he cried out again that he
was now in the same condition Darius was in, when he was seized
and led away by Bessus and his accomplices, and that there was no-
thing left him but the name of a king. His friends then could not
hold him any longer, but springing from them, some say he snatch-
ed a lance out of the hands of one of his guards, and with that run
Clitus through, and killed him; others report it was with a sarissa
delivered to him by one of the guard; Aristobulus gives no account
when this mad fit of Alexander's arose; but says all the fault was
wholly in Clitus; for that when Alexander in a rage rushed up and
made at him to kill him, he at a back door shifted out of the way,
and got quite out of the trenches into the fort to Ptolemy the son of
а
672
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
Lagus, a squire of the body, yet could not contain himself, but
must needs come back again; and lighting upon Alexander when he
was calling out for Clitus__" Here is Clitus, Alexander,” said he;
upon which the king ran him through with a sarissa: as I cannot but
greatly blame Clitus for his insolence to the king, so I am troubled
for Alexander on the other side, because at that time he exposed
himself as guilty of two vices together, anger and drunkenness; to
be overtaken with either of which, did not in the least become a so-
ber man. But yet again I must praise Alexander upon another ac-
count, that presently he repented of the foul act he had committed.
For some who write of the affairs of Alexander, say, that he set
the end of the spear against the wall, and attempted to run himself
upon the point, because his life seemed hateful to him, having
through his drunkenness destroyed his friend. Bat many writers do
not mention this. But when he was upon his bed he lay lamenting,
calling and repeating still the name of Clitus. Lanices, the daugh-
ter of Dropidus, who had brought up Alexander, received from him
now he was a man, a large reward for his education : she had lost
two sons in the war, fighting for the king, and had her brother now
killed by his own hand: he cried out he was the murderer of his
friends, and would neither eat nor drink for three days space, nor
take any care of himself what became of him. Some of Bacchus's
priests told him that these misfortunes befel him because he had
neglected to sacrifice to Bacchus. His friends had much ado to per-
suade him to eat or drink any thing to refresh him. But at last he
sacrificed to Bacchus; since it was not displeasing to him that that
misfortune should be imputed rather to the anger of the god, than
to his own wickedness.
SUP. IX.
Of the death of Calisthenes... Arrianus, lib. iv.
AS to the adoration of Alexander, how Calisthenes opposed him, and
what relates to it, it is reported, that it was agreed between Alex-
ander and the sophisters, and some of the nobility of the Medes and
Persians that attended upon him, that in the time of their feasting
à discourse should be started concerning this matter. Avaxarehus
was the person that began, and declared, that Alexander had more
DIODORUS SICULUS.
673
right to be accounted a god, than either Bacchus or Hercules, not
only for the greatness of his noble actions, but because Bacchus was
a Theban, a meer stranger, having no communication with the
Macedonians; and Hercules was of Argos, as much a stranger as
the other, save that Alexander was of the same stock, being from the
Heraclidæ; and it is far more just and equal for the Macedoni-
ans to adore their own king with divine honours than any other. And
on doubt, he said, was to be made but they would pay to him divine
honours when he was dead; therefore it is much better to adore him
as a god while he was alive, than when he was dead, when their di-
vine worship of him would be of no advantage to bim. When these
and other things to the same purpose were said by Anaxarchus,
those who were of the same pack praised all that was spoken, and
declared they would forthwith adore* him: but many of the Mace-
donians, who condemned Anaxarchus's speech, held their peace.
But Callisthenes in the midst of the silence spoke thus:--
“ Indeed, Anaxarchus, I count not Alexander unworthy of any
honour, how great soever it be, that is fit to be ascribed to men; but
there are prescribed differences amongst men between divine and
human honours, amongst many others in the building of temples
and erecting of statues; for to the gods we consecrate oratories, and
offer sacrifices and drink offerings: to the gods are sung hymns; men
are praised but not adored: kisses in salutations are given to men,
but the gods are placed on higli, and it is not lawful to touch them;
and therefore they are worshipped with adoration. Solemn times of
dancings are performed to the gods, and Pæans sung to them. Nei-
ther is it to be wondered at, insomuch as the honours given to the
gods are various; some sort of honours given to one, and others to
another, especially those honours of later times. Nay, those honours
given to some of the heroes differ from divine honours. It is not
therefore fit to confound these things, nor to advance men above
themselves and all mankind besides, and to degrade the gods, by
worshiping them with the same worship wherewith we adore men.
Alexander bimself would not suffer any private man to usurp the re-
gal dignity and honours due to himself, though he gained them by
the unjust suffrages of the people: much more justly therefore may
the gods be angry
if
any
mortal man assume to himself divine ho-
nours, or accept them from others. However, let Alexander be es.
teemed, as in truth he is, by many degrees the most valiant of them
that are valiant, the greatest king amongst all other kings, and
amongst generals the most worthy to command. But as for thee,
naxarchus, it is thy du ty above any other to instruct Alexander in
these things that have been spoken, and to deter him from the con-
* This adoration was by prostration.
Vol.2, No.43.
RRRR
674
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
trary; for thy conversation he daily makes use of, in order to im-
prove in wisdom and learning. Neither does it become thee to be the
beginner of this discourse, but rather to remember that thou art
not advising Cambyses or Xerxes, but the son of Philip, descended
from Hercules and Achilles, whose ancestors came out of Argos into
Macedonia, and maintained their empire not by arbitrary power, but
by ruling according to the laws and customs of the Macedonians,
But divine honours were not conferred upon Hercules himself by
the Grecians while he was living, nay, nor when he was dead, before
the oracle at Delphos commanded that he should be worshipped as a
god. But if there be but few that are in the country of the barba-
rians, we ought to entertain the same sentiments with them. And
I earnestly entreat thee, Alexander, to remember Greece, for whose
sake this expedition was undertaken by thee, in order to add Asia to
Greece: And now consider whether, when you return thither, you
can be able to compel the free people of Greece to adore you as a
god, or, excepting them of Greece, you can impose this dishonour
and slavery upon the Macedonians only, or whether it be fit that
quite different honours be there allowed you, since the Grecians
coufer only those that are human, according to the custom and man-
ner of the Greeks, when at the same time only the barbarians wor-
ship you as a god after the manner of the barbarians. But if it be
objected, that Cyrus, son of Cambyses, was the first of all mortal
men that was adored by men as a god, and that since that time this
adoration has continued amongst the Medes and Persians; yet you
are to consider bow his pride was curbed by the Scythians, a poor
and indigent people. Aud how other Scythians again reduced Da-
rius to more sober thoughts of himself, and the Athenians and La-
cedæmonians, Xerxes; and Clearchus and Xenophon, Artaxerxes,
with only ten thousand men; and Darius now overcome by Alexan-
der, when at that time no divine honours were decreed to him."
When Callisthenes had spoken these, and other things to the same
purpose, Alexander took it very heinously; but what he said was
very grateful and acceptable to the Macedonians; which being
known), Alexander sent some to urge the Macedonians to remember
the adoration of the king; upon which there being a great silence,
those among the l'ersians that were most eminent for birth, and ho-
nourable for age, all rose up together, and adored* him. But Leo-
natus, one of Alexander's friends, when he saw one of the Persians
sordidly prostrating himself, he fell a-laughing at the poor and mean
gesture of the Persian; at which Alexander was at first very an-
gry, but was afterwards pacified. Some write, that the king drank
in a golden bowl to them with whom he had made the compact to
• Prostrated themselves.
DIODORUS SICULUS.
675
adore him in a ring as they sat, and that the first that pledged him,
presently arose and adored him, and then kissed him, and so in order
the rest did the same, one after another. But when it came to Cal-
listhenes's turn, he rose up, and drank off the bowl, and when he
had done, (without adoring him,) drew near to the king to kiss him.
Alexander was then accidently discoursing with Hephæstion, and
therefore did not mind whether he omitted the adoration or not. But
Demetrius the son of Pythonax, one of Alexander's friends, observa
ing when Callisthenes approached to kiss Alexander, informed him
that Callisthenes had not adored him, upon which the king turned
away from him; and therefore Callisthenes said, he must now be dis-
carded with the loss of a kiss.
I cannot indeed praise either any of these things that tended to
Alexander's dishonour, or the moroseness of Callisthenes; for I con-
ceive it had been enough for him modestly to have carried himself,
and for him who would serve the king, to promote his affairs to the
best advantaye, as far as ever he was able: and therefore I am of opi-
nion, that Callisthenes was not without just cause hated by Alexander
by reason of the unseasonable liberty of his speech and foolish male-
pertness. For which reason, I believe, credit was more easily given
afterwards to his accusers, by whom he was charged to be in the con-
spiracy with the pages against the king's life, and to others who af-
firmed that they were put on to it by liin.
The conspiracy was thus: there was an order formerly made by
Philip, that from among the sens of the Macedonian nobility, when
they grew up to men's estate, choice should be made of some, froin
time to time, to attend upon the king, both to be squires of his body,
and gentlemen of his bedchamber: these youths, when the king was
about to ride, received the horses from the querries, and led them to
the king, and after the Persian manner helped him to mount, and
waited upon him whenever be went forth a-hunting: among these,
there was one Hermolaus, the son of Sopolides, wbo studied philo-
sophy, and was scholar to Callisthenes. The report is, that a wild
hoar in the course of hunting meeting Alexander, this Hermolaus
prevented the king, who was aiming at him, and killed the boar. The
king hereupon being in a rage to have the opportunity of killing the
boar snatched out of his hand, commanded that the youth should be
whipped in the presence of all the other pages, and have his horse
taken from bim: which disgrace he not being able to bear, opened
his mind to Sostrates, the son of Amyntas, one of his companions,
of the same quality, and his bosom friend, and declared to him that
his life would be but a' burthen to him, unless he could rivenge the
injury done him upon Alexander; and it was no difficult matter to
persuade Sostrates, being his special friend, to join with him in this
a
6:6
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
traitorous conspiracy. Antipater likewise, the son of Asclepiodorus,
lord lieutenant of Syria, Epimenes the son of Arseus, and Anti-
cles the son of Theocritus, together with Philotas, the son of Car-
sides the Thracian, were all brought in by him to join in the same
treason. The night that it came to Antipater's turn to wait in the
bedchamber, was the time pitched upon to kill Alexander when he
was asleep. But it happened, as some write, that Alexander that
.
very night sat up drinking till morning. But Aristobulus says, that
a certain woman of Syria, pretending to be divinely inspired, still
followed Alexander from place to place, whom Alexander and his
courtiers at first ridiculed; but when what she had foretold was still
verified by the event, she was no longer despised by Alexander, but
was freely admitted to the king both by night and by day, and often
was in his bedchamber when he was asleep. It is said at that time
this prophetess by chance met the king as he came from his cups,
and entreated him to return to his companions, and spend the whole
night in drinking. Alexander judging it might be a divine warning,
returned, and by that means disappointed the traitorous designs of
the pages.
The next day, Epimenes the son of Arseus, one of the conspira-
tors, discovered the whole matter to his friend Caricles, the son of
Menander, Caricles to Eurylochus, the brother to Epimenes; Eury-
lochus going into Alexander's tent, revealed all to Ptolemy the son
of Lagus, the squire of the king's body, and he to Alexander, who
forthwith ordered all that Eurylochus had named to be seized;
who being apprehended, upon their examination confessed their
treason, and discovered some others. ·
Aristobulus indeed says, that they declared Callisthenes stirred them
up to undertake this piece of villany, which Ptolenıy likewise con-
firms: but there are si ne others that give another account of this
matter, viz. That Alexander perfectly bated Callisthenes, and be-
cause there was a great intimacy between him and Hermolaus, he
was easily wrought upon by the informers to suspect Callisthenes.
Some likewise say, that Hiermolaus being brought before the Ma-
cedonians, confessed that he himself plotted the treason, and that it
was not in the power of any free-born man to endure the disgrace
and dishonour Alexander had brought upon him; and then reckoned
up
all that Alexander in that kind had done; to wit, the unjust death
of Philotas, and with far more injustice his putting to death Parme-
nio, Philotas's father, and the rest that were then killed; the murder
of Clitus through his drunkenness, his assuming the habit of the
Medes, the edict for his adoration, not yet recalled, his carousing
and drunken dozing; which vile courses he not being able further to
endure, was earnest to regain liberty both for bimself and the rest of
DIODORUS SICULUS:
677
the Macedonians. Hereupon Hermolaus and the rest that were
seized were stoned to death by the by-standers. , But Aristobulus
says, that Callisthenes was carried about with the army in chains, and
died. Ptolemy says he was first racked, and afterwards hanged. o
that these authors, though of great credit and repute, and who were
themselves present in the army, and attending upon Alexander at
the very time when these things were acted, yet cannot agree about
a matter whereof there could be no doubt at all at the time when it
was done.
SUP. X.
The king's expedition against the Nauticans, or Naurans; and
the destruction of many of his army by a greut snow.
Curtius, lib viii. c. 4.
THESE things being thus set in order, the third month he marched*
out of his winter-quarters towards a country called Gabazat. The
first day he had an easy march; the next day was not as yet stormy
or gloomy, but something darker than the day before, not without
some threatening of a storm at hand. The third day the whole
heavens flashed with lightning, sometimes light, then presently dark
which not only amazed the eyes, but terrified the hearts of the dis-
tracted army. The air resounded with continual thunder, and thun-
derbolts up and down seemed to be shot from the clouds; the army,
even struck deaf with the thunder, as men astonished, durst nei-
ther march nor stand still. Then on a sudden fell down a storin of
hail like a violent torrent. At first they covered themselves with
their shields, but presently their benumbed and frozen hands let fall
their arms, neither did they know towards what place or country to
move themselves, the violence of the storm being greater than could
possibly be avoided, turn themselves which way soever they would.
Their ranks and order therefore being broke, they wandered through
the woodſ in parties as they could; and many fainting rather with
fear than through weariness, fell down upon the ground, although
the fierceness of the cold had frozen the hail; others leaned them-
selves to the bodies of trees, which was to many both a support and
defence. Neither were they deceived in choosing out a place to die
in, when their natural heat, overcome by the cold, left them im-
moveable.
But it was a grateful sloth to them that were tired out, neither did
* From Xaura, or Nautica, 1 In Bordiana. * Or forest.
678
THÉ SUPPLEMENT TO
they count it irksome to find rest by death; for the cold was not onlg
intense, but also not likely to abate, and the dark shades of the
wood, besides the storm, which was as the night, suppressed and
kept out the light, that common comfort and refreshment. The
king only was patient under this sad misfortune, and walked round
his camp, and brought together the dispersed, and lifted up them
that were down, shewing them the smoke that came from chimneys
afar off, advising every one to take the nighest refuge. Neither did
any thing conduce more to their safety, than to see the king, who
had taken more pains than they, yet most unwearied of any, and
therefore were ashamed to leave him. But necessity, more forcibly
than reason in their distresses, found out a remedy for the cold: for
hewing down the trees with their axes, they set the heaps of wood up
and down on fire, so that you would have thought all the wood had
been in a flame, and scarce any place left for the army to lodge. This
heat presently enlivened their benumbed limbs, and by degrees their
spirits, which the cold had even closed up, began freely to pass.
Some were entertained in the houses of the barbarians which were
hid from them in the late wood; but now their necessity had disco-
vered others lodged in their tents, which though wet, yet were more
tolerable, the fury of the storm being somewbat abated. This un-
happy accident sweeped away a thousand soldiers, and other mean
attendants* upon the camp. It is reported, that some were found
.
standing at the side of the trees, and seemed not only as if they had
been alive, but as if they had been discoursing one with another in
the same posture as they were in when they died.
SUP. XI.
How Alexander falling in love with Roxana, married her, and
induced many of his friends to marry the daughters of the
chief men among the barbarians.- Arrianus, lib. iv.
ROXANA, the daughter of Oxyartes, was there * likewise, a virgin
ripe for marriage, whom Alexander's fellow-soldiers judged to be
the most beautiful lady of all Asia, next to the wife of Darius. Upon
sight of her Alexander feli deeply in love, yet would not by any
means use her dishonourably as a captive; neither did he disdain to
* Scullions, horse-boys, &c.
+ In the rock before mentioned, in Sogdiana ; but Strabo says, it was at the rock in
Bactria, See before.
DIODORUS SICULUS,
679
take her for his wife; which act of Alexander, I conceive, was more
worthy of praise than reprehension. And as for Darius's wife, who
was esteemed the most beautiful lady of all Asia, he neither was
tainted with so much as an unlawful desire towards her, nor did he,
as a domineering lord, command her to his bed, though he was then
in the heat of his youth, and the highest pitch of worldly prosperity;
which two conditions are apt greatly to provuke men to be very inju-
rious to others: but he, out of a reverence to her person, spared
her; herein evidencing his great continency, and prompted likewise
thereunto by a desire of his own honour and reputation.
SUP. XII.
His breaking into India, and his putting all to the sword in the
first country he entered, to be a terror to the rest.
Arrianus, lib. iv.
IN the middle of the spring Alexander removed with his army out
of Bactria towards India, and left Amyntas there with three thousand
five hundred horse, and ten thousand foot. Having passed the Cau-
casus, in ten days he came to Alexandria, which he had built in Pa-
ropamisus at his first expedition into Bactria, and put out the gover-
nor there for his bad behaviour in the place, and then peopled the city
with more inhabitants out of the neighbouring countries, and such
of his Macedonians as were grown unserviceable for the war, and
made Nicanor, one of his associates, governor of the city; but ap-
pointed Tyriaspes commander of the whole region of Paropamisus,
and of all that territory or province as far as the river Cophas.
Thence he went to the city of Nicæa, and there offered sacrifice to
Minerva, and then marched to the river Cuphas, and sending a
herald, commanded Taxiles and the rest of the governors of the
countries lying beyond the river to come to him. Taxiles and other
petty princes came first and met him, bringing him large presents,
such as were most esteemed in India, promising likewise to send him
five-and-twenty elephants. He there divided bis army, and sent
Hephæstion and Perdiccas into the country called Peucelaotis, to-
wards the river Indus, together with the troops of Gorgias, Clitus,
and Meleager, and half the horse of the Social Band, and all the mer-
cenary horse, commanding them to take in by fair means or foul all
the towns which lay in their way, and that when they came to the
bank of the river Indus, they should prepare all things that were ne-
cessary to pass over. And with them was sent Taxiles and other
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
680
commanders of those parts, to put in execution, when they came to
the river Indus, what Alexander had commanded.
Astes, the governor of the country of Peucelaotis, offering to re-
volt, lost both himself and the city which he put himself into: for
Blephæstion came and besieged it, and after thirty days time took it,
and, killing Astes, made one Sangæus governor of it, who a little be-
fore, forsaking Astes, had fled over to Taxiles, which made Alexander
the more confide in him ever after.
Alexander, with his band of silver targeteers, and the horse of his
fellow-cavaliers that went not with Hephæstion, and the troop of
horse called Asseteri, together with his archers, Agrians, and horse-
lancers, marched into the countries of the Aspians, Phyræans, and Aro-
sacaps; and, going on his way to the river Choaspes, (which was for
the most part mountainous and rocky), and having at last passed that
river, he commanded Craterus to come after him fair and softly with
the foot; and himself, taking with bim the whole body of his horse,
and eight hundred Macedonian foot-targeteers on horseback, marched
away at a great rate, because he heard that the people of the country
were fled, some to the mountains, others to fenced cities, and all to
make head against him. Having attacked the first of these cities
that lay in his way, those which came forth to oppose him he routed
at the first charge, and drove them back into the town, hut was him-
self wounded with a dart in the shoulder, which pierced through bis
breast-plate; but the wound was but slight, the breast-plate repelling
the force of the dart. Ptolemy Lagus, and Leonatus, were likewise
wounded. Then Alesander, observing what part of the wall was
fittest to pitch upon for an assault, encamped close to the city, just
against that part. The next day, early in the morning, the Mace-
donians took the outward wall with little difficulty, for the city was
doubly walled. At the inner wall the inhabitants made some resist-
ance; but when the Macedonians had once scaled the walls, and the
townsmen felt the arrows showering down about their ears, not being
able longer to endure, the soldiers within broke out of the gates, and
sap every man his way to the mountains, many of whom the Mace-
donians killed in the pursuit; and all the prisoners (being in a rage
because the king was wounded) they put to the sword. Many es-
caped to the mountains, which were not far off from the city. Having
laid the city level with the ground, he marched away with his army
to Andaca, another city.
a
1
DIODORUS SICULUS.
68.1
SUP. XIII.
Of his kindness to the city of Nysa, upon the account of his descent
from Bacchus.- Arrianus, lib. iv.
IN this region, into which Alexander entered, lying between the
rivers Cophas and Indus, is situated Nysa, a city built (as is re-
ported) by Dionysius*, at that time when he commanded in India.
Who this Dionysius was, and when, or from whence he brought in
his armies against the lodiaps, I cannot conjectare: whether it was
the Theban from Thebes, or he from Tmolus in Lydia, who led an
army from thence against the Indians. But, though he passed into
so many warlike nations, at that time altogether unknown to the
Greeks, yet he subdued none of them but the Indians. This only I
am satisfied in, that those fables which the antients have written con-
cerning the gods are not too curiously to be pried into: for such
writings as do not otherwise deserve much credit, yet when they
happen to speak of the gods, they seem not to be altogether in-
credible.
As soon as Alexander came with his army to Nysa, they sent Acu-
phis, the chief man of the city to him, with thirty others of the
leading men of the place, entreating him to leave the city free to
the god Bacchus. When the ambassadors were introduced into the
king's pavilion, and saw him as yet dusty with his march, clad in all
his armour, with his belmet upon his head, and his lance in his hand,
amazed at the sight of him, they fell flat upon the ground, and were
silent a long time together: but after Alexander had commanded
them to rise, and cheer up, Acuphis thus began_“ The Nysæans
entreat, О king, that in reverence to Bacchus you would leave the
city free, and the inhabitants to govern by their own laws: for Dio-
nysius, after he had conquered the Indians, and was about to return
to the Greciau sea, built this city for those soldiers who were unser-
viceable for war, (being of Bacchus's family), as a perpetual monu-
ment to posterity of his expedition and victory; as your majesty has
built Alexandria at mount Caucasus, and another in Egypt, and many
others, some finished, and others now in building, having now per-
formed much more than our Dionysius did: and he called the city
Nysa, from his nurse so named, and the country Nysæa; and the
mountair which hangs over the city he was pleased to call Meros,
(which is a thigh), because, according to the fables, he was cherished
in Jupiter's thigh. Since that time we have dwelt in Nysa as a free
eity, and have lived at ease under the use of our own laws. And
• Bacchus.
Vol. 2. No. 48,
SSSS
682
THE SUPPLEMENT TO
that this place was built by Bacchus, this one thing may be a de-
monstration_That ivy grows no where in India, but in this city.
This speech of Acuphis was very pleasing to Alexander; for he had
a great desire that those things should be believed which were re-
lated concerning Bacchus's peregrination, and would have none to
doubt but that Nysa was built by Bacchus, because that he himself
was now come as far as Bacchus ever came, and was still desirous to
go farther than be ever did; and he was of opinion that the Mace-
donians, out of emulation to the acts of Bacchus, would willingly
with himself undergo further toils and labours. He granted there-
fore liberty to the Nysæans, and that they should govern according
to their own laws. And when he understood what their laws were,
and how they were under the government of an aristocracy, he com-
mended their constitution, and commanded them to furnish bim with
three hundred horsemen, and send him a hundred of those that were
of the aristocracy, (who were three hundred in all), such as he would
choose. Acuphis was one of the number of them that were picked
out, whom the king had made governor of the whole province of
Nysæa. It is reported that Acuphis smiled at these demands, and
that Alexander asking him why he laughed, Acuphis answered
“ How is it possible, O king, for the city to be well governed, when
it is stripped of a hundred good men all at once? But if your majesty
havę a kindness for the city, be pleased to accept of three hundred
horsemen, (and more, if you think fit); but, as for a hundred of the
best men of the city, which you desire, be pleased to be content with
two hundred of the worst, that whensoever you return hither again,
you may find that the city has maintained and kept up her antient
state and grandeur.” With these words (because he judged them
prudently spoken) Alexander was persuaded, and commanded only
the three hundred horsemen to be sent him; and, as for the three huna
dred of the chief of the city, he neither desired them, nor any others
in their stead. But Acuphis's son, and nephew by his sister, were
sent to Alexander.
Afterwards Alexander had a longing desire to see that city, in which
the Nysæans boast that there are some monuments of Dionysius; and
to go likewise, accompanied by some horse of his friends, and a re-
giment of foot, to the mouutain Meros, that he might see the hill
grown over with ivy and laurel, and the shady groves, which abounded
with all sorts of wild beasts. The ivy was a very pleasant sight to
the Macedonians, not having seen any for a long time; for India
bears no ivy, neither those places where vines grow. Of the ivy they
worc garlands ou their heads, singing praise to Bacchus, with all his
titles and appellations. Alexander there sacrificed to Bacchus, and
feasted with his friends.
a
DIODORUS SICULUS.
683
SUP. XIV.
How, having taken a strong city called Massaga, he put to the sword
all the mercenary soldiers that had fought valiantly.
Arrianus, lib. iv.
WHEN the barbarians heard of Alexander's coming, they durst not
abide him in a body, but broke up their army, and dispersed them-
selves, every one as they could, into several cities, purposing there to
stand upon their guard.
Alexander marched first with his army to Massaga*, the greatest
city of that countryf. Approaching therefore with his army close to
the city, the barbarians (having got into the town for their assistance
seven thousand mercenary Indians from the inner parts of India)
made a fierce sally upon the Macedonians as they lay encamped.
Alexander, perceiving that the fight was likely to be under the city
walls, designed to draw off the enemy to a farther distance, lest when
they fled (which he clearly foresaw they would) they might with ease
(being so very near) get into the town, and so escape: perceiving
therefore the barbarians pouriog out upon them, he forthwith com-
manded his Macedonians to wheel about, and make to a hill about
seven furlongs distant from the river Guræus, where he had purposed
to encamp. The enemy hereupon emboldened, (the Macedonians
seeming to give back), in great confusion and disorder hotly pursued
them. But when they were got within the cast of a dart, upon a
sign given by Alexander, the phalanx furiously turned upon them:
but first indeed the horse that were darters, the Agrians, and archers,
made an excursion, and engaged with the barbarians; but Alexander
led the phalanx in battalia himself. The Indians, amazed at the sud-
den and unexpected turn, when it came to the sword's point, fed
back into the city. Two hundred of them were killed in the pur-
suit, but the rest got within the walls.
Alexander presently drew up his main division of Macedonians
before the walls, and from thence was slightly wounded by an arrow
struck into his heelf. The next day the engines being brough: up to
the walls, part of them were easily battered down, upon which (the
Macedonians endeavouring to force their way through the ruins
the Indians stoutly withstood them, insomuch that Alexander for that
day sounded a retreat, and called off his men. But the next day the
Macedovians renewed the assault with greater vigour, bringing up a
wouden tower to the walls, out of which the archers pouring showers
. Mazaga. + The country of the Assacenians,
Curtius, 1. 8. . 10, says the calf of the leg.
684
DIODORUS SICULUS.
of darts and arrows, grievously galled the Indians. But yet with all
these devices they were not able to enter. The third day the main
body of the Macedonians being again led up to the walls, a bridge
was cast out of the wooden tower over that part of the wall that was
broken down, upon which bridge the king ordered the Argyraspides,
who had before taken Tyre after the saine manner; but when with
great courage and resolution they had got upon it, with too much
weight, it yielded and broke, and it and the Macedoniaus tumbled
down together. The barbarians rejoicing at the accident, set up a
great shout, and plied the Macedonians with stones, and all sorts of
darts and arrows, or whatever was at band, or that they could come at;
and others issuing out through narrow sally-ports that were placed
between the turrets, knocked them on the head while in that disorder
and confusion. Alexander sent Alcetas with a party to take care
of the wounded men, and to call the besiegers off into the camp. The
fourth day be cast another bridge, with other devices, upon the walls;
but the Indians (as long as the governor of the place was alive) va-
liantly repulsed the Macedonians: but when he was killed by a dart
from the engines, and many of their men lost by continual assaults,
and others wounded and become thereby unserviceable, they sent to
Alexander, who was very ready and willing to spare such stout and
valiant men. He agreed therefore with the mercenary Indians, that
they should take up arms with him, and join themselves to his army.
Hereupon they marched out of the city by themselves, and encamp-
ed on a bill opposite to the Macedonians, with a design to fly away
in the night to their own country, because they would not fight
against the other Indians. When Alexander was informed hereof,
the same night he surrounded the hill with his forces, and put them
every one to the sword, and took the city, now without these that
should defend it, by storm, and in it the mother and daughter of As-
sacenus. On Alexander's side there were only twenty-five killed
during the whole siege.
FINIS,
685
DIODORUS SICULUS.
CONTENTS.
BOOK I.
Chap. I. Or the first generation of men. How the world first began. Men's first man-
ner of life, and who were the first men. First men in Egypt. Who were the most
antient gods of Egypt. Of their demi-gods. Sol, Saturn, Rhea, Jupiter, Juno, and
Vulcón, vigned in twypt Of Osiris and Isis. The acts of Osiris and Isis. Hermes,
his inventions Osiris prepares for his expedition through the world, and to that end
raises a great army.-- 2 The continuation of Osiris's expedition through Æthiopia,
all Arabia, India, and Europe. Buried by Isis and Mercury. How be was killed.
His death revenged by Isis and Orus. Two bulls, A pis and Mnevis, worshipped in
Egypt. Places discussed where Osiris and Isis were buried. Stories of the Egyptian
priests. Their years, Lunur years, giants, laws about marriage. Osiris und Isis, their
pillars and inscriptions. Colonies out of Egypt.-3. The description of Egypt.
Of the lake of Serbon. The nature of the river Nile. The cataracts: the mouths of
the Nile. The fruits of Egypt. The beasts, crocodile, &c. Several opinions con-
cerning the inundation of the Nile.-4. The first way of living of the Egyptians:
gods and demi gods, their reigns in Egypt. The antient kings of Fgypt: Mienis, &c.
Their several works. Thebes built by Busiris. The stately sepulchres, obelisks, and
temples there. A description of Osypandyas's sepulchre. Memphis built by Ucho-
reus Meris's lake. Sesostris, or Sesoosis; his famous expedition, and great works.
-5. The acts of Sesostris the Second. Of Ammosis, Actisanes, Mendes, Proteus
or Cetes. Remphis, Chemmis, (the great pyramids built by him), Cepbres, Mycerinus,
Bocchoris, and Sabach. The reign of twelve kings in Egypt. Psammetichus Suites,
one of the kings, gained the whole; two hundred thousand of bis army forsake bim,
and settle themselves in Ethiopia. Apries succeeds long after. Amasis rebels, and
next succeeds; and Apries is strangled by the people. Amasis the last king, to the
time of the conquest of Egypt by Cambyses.-6. The customs of the Egyptians.
Of their kings. 01 their hourly employment, sacrifices, diet, &e. Their burials. The
division of Egypt Their trades in Egypt. Courts of justice. Their law proceed-
ings. The several laws of Egypt. Beasts and birds adored in Egypt, as lions, wolves,
cats, the bird Ibis, kites, &c., Costs in their burial of these creatures. Reasons given
for this adoration.-- -7. Why the crocodile is worshipped. Some sorts of herbs and
roots not eaten. Why other creatures are worshipped. The manner of their burials.
The law-makers in Exypt. Learned men of Greece made journies into Egypt, as Or-
pheus, Homer, Plato, Solon, Pythagoras, &c. Several proofs of ibis, as their religious
rites, fables, &c. in Greece, of Egyptian extraction. The exquisite art of the stune.
carvers in Egypt.
BOOK II.
Charil. Ninus, the first king of Assyria : his acts: he invades Babylonia, Media, and
overruns several other countries. Nineveh built by him: the description of it: mar.
rics Semiramis: her descent. Derceto, the Philistine's Dagon. His expedition a-
gainst Bactria: he dies. Semiramis builds Babylon, and several strange works there;
as a passage under water, Jupiter's temple, &c. Hanging gardens in Babylon. A
vast stone cut out. The strange property of a morass. Her several expeditions. The
686
CONTENTS.
wonderful lake in Ethiopia: their burials there. Semiramis's expedition into ladia.
Her mock elephants. Her expedition proves fruitless. She surrenders her kingdom
to Ninyas her son: her end.----2. Ninyas succeeds Semiramis. His close and sloth-
ful manner of life. The reign of Sardanapalus. His luxury and etieminacy. His
epitaph. Deposed by Arbaces the Mede; and the Assyrian empire overturned. Ni-
Devela razed. ---3. Of the antient Chaldeans, and their philosophy. The planets,
and their course. The empire of the Medes, and their kings. A description of In-
dia : the antient manners and customs of the people. Their laws, and trihes. A de-
scription of Scythia. Of the Amazons. Of the Hyperboreans.-4. A description
of Arabia the Desert, Happy, &c. Metals, precious stones, beasts, &c. A descrip-
tion of Taprobane, in the Southern Ocean, now called Ceylon, or Zeilan. The strange
things there. How discovered by lambalus.
BOOK III.
Cuap. I. Of the Ethiopians: their letters, laws, arms, religion, and funerals. Descrip
tion of several parts of the country. Manner of making gold. The Ichthyophages,
their several sorts, and way of living. ----2. Chelonophages: the manner of taking
sea-tortoises. The Cetivores, or whale-eaters. The sea-coasts over against Babylon;
their manner of taking of fish. The Rizophages, or roet-eaters. Those called Sper.
matophages and Hyloplages, Hylogones, or Hunters; their taking of wild beasts: the
Elephant-fighters; how they are taken: the Simoes, Struthophages, Acridophages, or
locost-eaters ; their miserable deaths. Cynomolges: the country of the Troglodytes.
Wild beasts: the terrible wild bull. Serpents: that great one brought alive to Alex.
andria.-3. A description of the coasts and countries on both sides the Arabian
gulf, or Red sea. The perfumes of Arabia the Happy. The Fortunate Islands. A
description of part of Libya: the spectres near the Syrtes.-4. Of the Amazons of
Africa. Their acts: rooted out by Hercules; and the Gorgons by Perseus. The Ats
Jan!ides, and the gods among them. The origin of the Titanes. The acts of Basilea,
or Cybele, said to be born in Phrygia. The origin of Atlas and Saturn. A long ac.
count given of Bacchus, and the several Bacchuses there were. A description of the
grotto in Nysa, where he was brought up. The building of the temple of Ammon by
him. The several Herculeses. The monsters Ægicies and Caropes killed by Minerva
and Bacchus,
BOOK IV,
Cwap. I. What the Grecians say further of Bacchus. The story of Priapus. Of Here
maphroditus. Of the Muses. The birth of Hercules; and his twelve labours enjoined
him by Eurystheus. His wandering expeditions through Africa, Spain, France, Italy,
and Sicily. His setting up two pillars at Gades, and his other acts by the way. The
story of Orpheus -2. An account of Atlas and his daughters, called Atlantides and
Hesperides. The Amazons routed by Theseus in Attica. The further acts of Her
cules: he goes against Laonyedon, king of Troy; and other acts. The story of Me.
leager, son of king (Eneus. Apalthæa's Horn. Hercules's farther acts. His death
by a poisoned shirt.-----3. Of the Argonauts, Medea, and the daughters or Pelias.
How the Argonauts gained the golden tieece. The pranks of Medea. The acts of
Jason. The cruelty of Pelias towards Jason's kindred; how he was killed by his own
daughters, througli Medea's charms. Medea burns the king of Corinth's palace, and
him in it. The miserable end of Jason. Of the Heraclidæ, and their relurn to Pe-
Joponnesus.-4. The acts of Theseus. The Minotanr in Crete. Androgeus the
son of Minos murdered by Egeus. Ariadne, daughter of Minos, in love with Theseus,
Ariadne's crown. Egeus, king of Athens, kills himself. Theseus's dealh. The war
of Thebes by the seven captains. The Epigoni renew the war. The pedigrees of the
heroes at Troy. Of the Centaurs, and Lapithæ. The pedigrees of Esculapius, Æa-
cus, Ajax, Pelops, Tantalus, (Enomaus. Dardanus's posterity, to Priam, king of
Troy.-5. Of Dædalus, and his works in Crete, Sicily, and elsewhere. His flight
into Sicily: Minos invades Scily; the manner of his death there. The famous tem-
ple of the Curetes, or Corybantes, in Sicily, built by the posterity of the Cretans that
came there with Minos. The pedigree of Aristæus; his acts; his son Acteon. Of
Eryx. Venus's temple at Eryx in Sicily; the fame of it. Of Daphnis the shepherd,
A description of the Hercan mountains. Or Orion. Of the straits ur Nessada.
:
CONTENTS.
687
BOOK V.
toms.
Chap. I. A description of Sicily. The Æolides, or Lipara Islands. Of Malta, Gaulus,
Cercina, Corsica, Sardinia, Pityasa, and the Baleares.-2. Of Madeira, Britain,
Gallia, Celtiberia, Iberia, Tyrrhenia, and of the inhabitants, and their laws and cus-
-3. Of Gedrosia. Of the isles of the Arabian sea. Of the holy island. Of
Panchæa. Of Samothracia. Of Naxos, Syme, Nausus, Calydna, Nisyrus, Carpathus.
Of Rhodes, and of Chersonesus. 4. Of Crete: the first inhabitants. Of the Idæi
Dactyli. Of Jupiter, Saturn, Hyperion, Prometheus, Mnemosyne, Themis, Ceres,
Neptune, Pallas. Jupiter's race; as the Muses, Vulcan, Mars, &c. of the antient
Hercules, Britomartis, Pluto. Rhadamanthus's justice. Of Lesbos. Deucalion's
dood. Of the blessed islands. Of Tenedos and the Cyclades.
BOOK XI.
Cap. 1. Of Xerxes's expedition into Greece, and the battle of Thermopylæ, and the
sea-figlit at Salamis.-2. How the Carthaginians invaded Sicily, and were routed
by Gelon.-3. The victory of the Greeks over Mardonius at Platæa.-4. Of the
fight with the Persians by the Grecians in Ionia at Mycale.----5. Death and com-
mendation of Gelon, king of Syracuse: and rebuilding Athens by the policy of The-
mistocles.-6. The enlarging of the haven at Athens by Themistocles. The treason
of Pausanias, and the justice of Aristides.--.7. Hiero king of Sicily prepares to be.
siege Agrigentum; discovers the treason of them of Himera to Theron their prince.
Expels the Cataneans and Naxians.-8. The Lacedæmonians quarrel with the Athe-
nians for the dominion of the sea.-9. Hiero breaks the power of the Etruscans by
sca. -10. The war between the Tarentines and the Japygians.Il. The death
of Theron, prince of Agrigentum, and the tyranny of his son Thrasideus, who abdicated
the government, and killed himself. Three hundred of the family of the fabii slain
at one time. 12. The malice of the Lacedæmonians against Themistocles, and his
banishment. His praise.-13. Cimon, the Athenian general, gains many places for
the Athenians; routs the Persians by a stratagem at Eurymedoa.-14. A great
earthquake in Sparta; the war upon them by the Helots and Messenians. ---15. The
war between the Argives and the Mycenæans.-16. The death of Hiero.-----17.
Thrasybulus, king of Syracuse, deposed by force of arms for his tyranny.-19. The
murder of Xerxes by Artubanus.- 19. The war between the Athenians and the
Æginians. -20. The Egyptians revolt from the Persians. New troubles in Sicily.
-21. The Persian expedition into Egypt. Wars in Sicily.----22. The war be-
tween the Epidaurians and the Athenians.-23. The war between the Corinthians
and Megareans.-24. The war between the Athenians and the Bæotians.--25.
The Athenians invade the Spartans by 'Tolmides.--26. The war in Sicils between
the Ægesteans and the Lilybæans. The custom of writing upon an olive-leaf the
games of such as were to be banished in Sicily, called Petalism.--27. Pericles
makes an inroad into Peloponnesus. Besieges Sicyon. Phaylus in Sicily made ad-
miral against the Tyrrhenian pirates; is corrupted, and banished. The origin of the
Palici: and the stories of the temple, and wonders of the Craters in Sicily.-28.
The contests between Deucetius and the Agrigentines. His strange submission to the
Syracusans, who sent him to Corinth, with promise to supply himn with necessaries.
BOOK XII.
Chap. I. Cimon the Athenian admiral. His expedition into Cyprus. Peace con•
cluded between the Persians and Athenians. Cimon dies in Cyprus. 2. The Me.
gareans revolt from the Athenians, and are beaten. The Athenians routed at Chero.
nea by the Bæotians. Many cities revolt. A peace is concluded.-----3. The war
between the Agrigentines and Syracusans in Sicily. The war between the Crotonians
and the Sybarites. Sybaris razed. The building of Thurium. Charondas's good
laws in Thurium. His tarkable death. The laws of Zaleucus of Locris. - 4. or
the Decemviri in Rome, chosen to make laws. The war between the Thurian, and
Tarentines. The sad story of the daugliter of one Lucius Virginitis in Rome, wbich
caused a disturbance and great sedition. The law of the Twelve Tables. Peace all
688
CONTENTS.
over the world.-5. The war between the Samians and the Milesians. A sedition
in Samos, which revolts from the Athenians. The war in Sicily, by the Syracusaus a-
gainst the Frinacrians.-6. The Corinthian war against Corcyra. Potidea revolts
from the Athenians. Quarrels in Thurium. Meton's year. Heraclea in Italy built.
Potidea besieged by Phurmio.-7. The Peloponnesian war. Potidea revolis; bea
sieged by the Athenians, and is surrendered apon articles. Nicias made the Athenian
admiral. Gorgias, an excellent orator, sent from Leontium in Sicily to Athens. A
peace concluded, after the war had continued ten years.-8 The continuance of
the Peloponnesian war. The war by the Romans against the Fidenates, for putting
their ambassadors to death. The quarrels between the Egesteans and the Selinuntines
in Sicily. The expedition of the Athenians against Sicily, under Nicias, being the six-
toenth year of the Peloponnesian war.
V
BOOK XII.
Chap. 1. The Athenian fleet rigged out for Sicily, Alcibiades accused; flies; is cor-
demned; goes out of Italy to Sparta. The Syracusans send for aid to Lacedæmon.
Gylippus is sent to them. The battle at Syracuse.--2. The Lacedæmonians invade
Attica. The fight at sea between the Syracus
cusans and Athenians, Eurymedon and
Deniosthenes arrive in Sicily. A plagne in the Athenian camp. Another fight be-
tween the Syracusans and Athenians. The latter routed at sea. The Athenians ruined
in Sicily. Nicholaus's long oration. Gylippus's answer. - -3. Diocles instituted
Jaws for Sicily: suffered by one of his own laws. Three hundred appointed to govern
in Athens. The Athenians beaten at sea by the Lacedæmonians at Oropus. Alci-
biades recalled from banishment.-4. The government by four hundred abrogated
in Athens. The victory by the Atheniaus over the Lacedæmonians at sea, between
Sestos and Abydus. The Persian garrison driven out of Antandros by the help of the
Lacedæmonians. Twenty-two years of the Peloponnesian war ended. Here Thucy.
dides ends his bistory. -5. Commotions in Sicily. The Carthaginians invited thi-
ther by the Egesteans. A sea-fight at Dardanium between the Athenians and Lace-
dæmonians. A sedition in Corcyra. The sea-fight at Cyzicum; and at Claros by
land, wherein the Athenians were victors, -6. The Spartans sue for peace. The
speech of Endius. The Athenians reſuse.—7. Hannibal the Carthaginian invades
Sioily. The miserable destruction of Selinus. The ruin, likewise, of Himera. The
acts of Hermocrates in Sicily.-8. Thrasybulus assaults Ephesus. The Lacedæ-
monians besiege Pylos; surrender Chalcedon, besieged by Therapienes; and after-
wards Byzantium, which was betrayed to Alcibiades.-9. Theramenes and Alci-
biades return to Athens; are admired by the people. Lysander made general by the
Lacedæmonians. Antiochus, one of the Athenian generals, beaten at Ephesus, in a
sea-fight. Agis surprises part of the walls of Athens; but was beaten off. Alcibiades
accused for assaulting Cuma, a confederate city. Conon nade admiral in his place.
-10. Hermocrates killed at Syracuse, atteruptiog to surprise it.ll. The acts
of Callicratides, the Lacedæmonian general. The fight at sea, in the harbour at Mity.
lene, between Conon and Callicratides.- -12. Therma built in Sicily by the Cartha-
ginians. They raise forces to invade Sicly. The noble temple at Agrigenlumn. The
antient grandeur of that city. The riches of Gellias, a citizen there, and some others.
Agrigenium besieged. The Syracusans under Daphnæus rout the Carthaginians near
Agrigentum. Amilcar seizes the Syracusan flect, and takes all the provisions going to
Agrigentum, which was afterwards quitted by the inhabitants. Their miserable con-
dition. The Pbalarian bull. -- 13. The Syracusan officers accused. Dionysius
nade general of the Syracusans. He moves to have the exiles recalled. He is in-
vested with the sole command. At length, by several artifices, he gains the sovereign-
ty.-14. The famous battle of Arginusæ at sea, wherein the Athenians were vic-
tors. The officers accused for not burying the dead. The speech of Diomedon. The
death of Sophocles.-15. Lysander nade sole admiral of the Lacedæmonian fleet.
He takes Caramium, The ruin of the Athenian feet at Egos Potamos. Athens taken
by Lysander. The end of the Peloponnesian war.- --16. Agrigentum sacked by
A inilcar the Carthaginian. The Carthaginians besiege Gela. Dionysius goes to tbe
aid of Gela. The skirmishes before Gela. Camarina deserted by the order of Dio.
nysius. The soldiers enraged at Dionysius; he hastens to Syracuse. Amilcar makes
peace with Dionysius, and returns to Carthage. The end of tbe first Carthaginian
war against Dionysius.
CONTENTS.
689
BOOK XIV.
ance.
Ceap. 1. A peace between the Athenians and Lacedæmonians. The Athenians disa
agree about the manner of their government. The government by thirty. The cru-
elty of the thirty tyrants; and especially towards Theramenes.--2. Dionysius's
projects to strengthen himself in the sovereignty of Sicily. The Syracusans revolt.
They are dispersed.-3. The Lacedæmonians establish an oligarchy in every city.
Dionysius disarms the Syracusans. Alcibiades killed; the manner of his death.
Clearchus's tyranny in Byzantium. The battle of Porus against his countryinen the
Lacedæmonians. Lysander proiects to deprive the fleraclide of the sovereign power.
4. Dionysius's actions in Sicily. The Oropians subdued by the Thebans. The
Lacedæmonians quarrel with the Elei. Dionysius fortifies the Epipolæ.-5. The
war between Cyrus and his brother Artaxerxes king of Persia. Cyrus routed. The
Grecian forces in difficulties; their brave behaviour, and long and troublesome march
out of Persia into Greece.---6. Thrasybulus opposes the thirty tyrants. The cru.
elty of Psammetichius, king of Egypt, towards his old friend Tamos, who fled to him
for succnur from the Persians. Dercyllidas sent general against the Persians into
Asia. Conon made admiral of the Persian feet.-7. The war between the Rhe-
gians and Dionysius: he prepares to make war upon the Carthaginians. Most of the
cities submit to Dionysius He returns to the siege of Motya. It is taken. Forces
sent from Carthage against Dionysius. A sea-fight between the Carthaginians and the
Sicilians. Syracuse besieged. The speech of Theodorus against Dionysius. A grie-
vous plague in the Carthaginian army. A great destruction of the Carthaginian fleet
in the harbour of Syracuse. The miserable condition of Amilcar in his own country.
The troubles of the Carthaginians. ----8. Agesilaus made general against the Persians
by the Lacedæmonians; goes to Ephesus. They send to the king of Egypt for assist-
The Persians routed at Sipylns by Agesilaus. Tissaphernes's head cut off in
a bath at Larissa. The war between the Phucians and Bootiaus. ----9. The confe-
derate war by the Argives and others against the Lacedæmomars. The battle at
Aricas. The fight at Nemæa. Pisander the Lacedæmonian admiral routed in a sea-
fight at Cnidus by the Persian fleet, commanded by Conon the Athenian. Corinthian
war against the Lacedæmonians and the great sedition there.-- 10. Quiarrel between
the Rhegians and Dionysius. Mago the Carthaginian settles affairs in Sicily. Routed
at Abacene by Dionysius. Rhegium nearly surprised by Dionysius. Acts of Iphi.
crates at Corinth, Phlius, and Sicyon, Amyntas lost his kingdom of Macedonia, but
was restored. The Romanis take Veii; dedicate a golden cup to Apollo. Their ann-
bassadors are taken by the pirales of the Lipari islands, but discharged by Timasi-
theus. ll. Acts of Thrasybulus, the Atheman general. The Carthaginians, under
Mago, begin a new war in Sicily against Dionysius. Peace concluded. Rhodes falls
uff from the Athenians. Evagoras becomes king of Salamis, in Cyprus. Makes war
against the Persians. Acts of Thimbron, the Lacedæmonian general, in Asia. -12.
Dionysius's expedition against Rhegium. War between the Lucanians and Thurians,
in Italy. The Tburians cut off by their own rashness. Leptines generously saved
those that swam to his ships, though he was a friend to their enemies. Dionysius's
second expedition into Italy: besicges Caulonia, and routs Heloris.
with the Rhegians. Razes Caulonia to the ground, and transplants the inhabitants to
Syracuse. Watches an occasion to be revenged on them of Rheginn. Besieges it.
He sends rich chariots to the Olympic games. His poetry ridiculed.-3. Peace
of Antalcidas. War by the Persians against Evagoras in Cyprus. Miserable condi-
tion of Rhegium. Its surrender. Cruel usage of Philo, the governor of Rhegium,
and of his son. Expedition of the Gauls against Italy. The Romans routed by the
Gauls at the river Allia. Rome taken by the Gauls. The Romans besieged in the
Capitol. The Volsci revolt from the Romans. The Gauls routed by Marcus Furius
in their return. All cut off afterwards in the plains of Trausium,
Makes peace
BOOK XV.
Chap. 1. Artaxerxes's expedition against Evagoras, in Cyprus. The actions there at sea
and land. The Lacedæmonians begin new quarrels in Greece: as first with Manti-
Dionysius gives himself to poetry. Peace concluded with Evagoras by Orontas
the Persian general. Teribazus brought to his trial. Judgment upon corrupt judges,
Vol. 2. No, 48,
TTTT
nea.
690
CONTENTS.
Teribazus acquitted.---2. Mantinea besieged by the Lacedæmonians. Dionysius
aims to gain the islands of the Adriatic sea. The Pari build Paros. Dionysius's ex•
pedition into Etruria. Prepares for war against the Carthaginians The Sicilians
rouled at Croniui. Quarrel between the Clazomenians and those of Cuma, about
Leuce. War between Aruyntas and the Olynthians. The Lacedæmonians seize the
citadel of Cadmea at Thebes. Eudamidas breaks into the country of the Olynthians.
-3. Pelopidas sent general by the Lacedæmonians against the Olynthians. A great
plague in Carthage. Baotian war. Cadmea re-taken. Contederacy of the citics a.
gainst the Lacedæmonians Cleombrotus attempts to surprise the Puæus at Atheus.
The Athenians seize Acta in EubæaAgesilaus enters Bæotia. Sea-fight ai Naxos.
-4. The Triballians make incursions into Thrace. Chabrias the Athenian general
assassinated. The Thebans rout the Spartans a: Orchomenus. Artaxerxes seeks to
mate peace among the Grecians. Peace concluded. The Thebans only disagreed.
Commendation of Epaminondas. Seditions in several cities of Greece.-5. The
Persians send an army into Egypt, to reduce the revolters. Iphicrates a skiltui com-
mander. Sedition at Zacynthus. Plaixa razed by the Thebans. The Lacedæmo-
niaus seize upon the island Corcyra: relieved by the Athenians under Ctesias Evs.
goras murdered in Cyprus by an eunuch Dreadful earthquakes and inundations in
Peloponnesus. Great comet seeu in Greece.---- 6. Artaxerxes sends again to wake
peace among the Grecians. All comply except the Thebans. The Spartans raise an
army against the Thebans. Epaminoudas made the Theban general. Famous battle
of Leuctra Terrible seditions and cruelties in Argos. Jason of Pheræ stirs up tbe
Thessalonians to gain the sovereignty of Greece. Pollydorus, prince of Pheræ in
Greece, poisoned by his brother Alexander. A plot to depose Alexander. King of
Macedonia treated with to that purpose. -7. The Lacedæmonians send Polytropus
into Arcadia; who is slain, and his party routed by Lycomedes. An invasion by
Epaminondas and Pelopidas into Pelopomesus. Sparta besieged. Antiquity and
history of Messe nia, in Greece. Pellene taken by the Arcadians. A wall drawo be-
tween Cenchree and the Lechæum, to hinder the inroad of the The bans into Pelo.
ponnesus. Epaminondas breaks through into Peloponnesus: assaults Corinth.-8.
Dionysius sends Gauls and Spaniards to the assistance of the Lacedemonians. Pelo-
pidas and Ismenias imprisoned by Alexander, tyrant of Pueræ. The Bæotians pure
sued by the Phereans: brought off by Epaminondas, then a private soldier. Fight
between the Arcadians and Lacedæmonians. Dionysius falls upon the Carthaginian
territories in Sicily. Dionysius dies. Cause of his death. Cruelty of Alexander the
Pherean at Scotussa. Epaminondas breaks again into Peloponpesus. Coos peopled
ard walled. End of the Laconic and Baotian war, by the mediation of the Persian
king.----9. New quarrels in Greece. Battle between the Elians and Arcadians near
Lassia. Quarrel between the Pisates and them of Elis about the Olympic games. A
fight at the time and place of the games, The Thebans prepare a fieet in order 10
gain the dominion at sea. Rhodes, Cbios, and Byzantium brought over to the The-
bans by Epaminondas. The Thebasis make war upon Orchomenus: the reason. Or.
chomienus razed. The Thessalians war with Alexander the Pberean, Pelopidas
killed: his praises.-_-10. War between the Tegeans and Mantineans. The Bæo.
tians side with the Tegeans, Epuinondas made general Battle of Mantinea, where
Epaminondas was killed; but the Lacedæmonians routed. Commendation of Epa.
minovdas.ll. Delection from the Persians in Asia. Tachos, king of Egypt, de.
clares war against the Persians. The war between Tachos and his son Nectanabis.
Death of Artaxerxes Mnenjon. Agesilaus routs tbe Egyptians that pursued bina, and
restores Tachos to his kingdom. Quarrels again in Greece, after the battle of Man.
tinea, between the Megalopolitans and the neighbouring towns. Peparethos besieged
by Alexander of Phera. He ruuts Leosthenes at sea. Chares, the Athenian adri.
tal: his villanies.
BOOK ITI.
Carar. I. Philip, a hostage at Thebes, makes his escape; beats the Athenians, and af
terwards makes peace with them. Subdues the Pæones; and ronts the Illyrians, and
makes peace with them.---- 2. Actions of Dionysius the younger in Sicily and other
parts. Dion's flight to Corinth, and his return to Sicily. Andromachus peoples Taus
rominium. Civil wars in Eubea. Social war between the Atha nians and other na.
tous. Pbilip takes Amphipolis and other cities. His policy to gain the Olynthians,
aud other places in Greece.3. Dion's inarch and entry into Syracuse. Dionysius
CONTENTS
691
cuse.
comes to the Island, a part of Syracuse: assaults the wall erected from sea to sea: is
beaten by Dion, Alexander of Pheræ murdered by his wife and his two brothers.
Pbilip relieves the Thessalians from the two brothers.-4. First rise of the Brutii in
Italy. Dionysius's admiral invades the Leontines. A fight at sea between Heraclides
and Philistas, admirals, the one of Dionysing, the other of Dion. A faction in Syra-
Dion leaves the Syracusans. Their sad condition. Relieved by Dion. -
5. Continuance of the Social War. Iphicrates and Timotheus joined admirals with
Chares by the Athenians. Iphicrates and Timotheus accused by Chares, and fined
and removed. Chares joins with Pharnabazus, and routs the Persians. End of the
Social War, Philip subdues the confederates.-6. Begirning of the Sacred or
Phocian war. Philomelus seizes the temple at Delphos, after he had routed the Lo-
crians. How the oracle at Delphos was first discovered; and the beginning of the
Tripod. The Athenians and others join with Philomelus.--7. Battle at Phadra,
between Philomelus and the Locrians. Parties engaged in the Phocian war. Battle
between the Baotians and Phocians. Philomelus killed. Onomarchus made general:
his dreams, successes, and death.-8. Phayllus continues tbe Phocian war. Aryca
razed. Phayllus dies of a consumption. War between the Lacedæmonians and Me-
galopolitans. Chæronea taken by Phalæcus. War between the Persians, Egyptians,
and Phænicians. Salamis, in Cyprus, besieged. Cruelty of Artaxerxes Ochus towards
the Sidonians. Calarity of Sidon 9. Evagoras beheaded in Cyprus. Artaxerxes
marches against Egypt, and gains it all by the policy of Mentor. Loses many of his
men at the lake of Sorbon. Mentor advanced. Mentor's stratagem to subdue Her.
meas, prince of Atarnea. Zena razed by Philip. King of Egypt abdicates his king-
dom, and flies to Ethiopia.-10. Philip takes Olynthus, and viher cities in the Hels
lespont. The Athenians jealous of Philip, and instigated by Demosthenes, Philip's
policies. Value of the riches taken out of the temple at Delphos. Dionysius sent
presents to Delphos, which were taken by the Athenians. His letter to the thenians,
Temple burnt. End of the Phocian war. Punishments decreed by the Amphictyons
against the Phoeians. Miseries of the sacrilegious persons. Timoleon sent to Syra-
cuse.----ll. Timoleon's expedition into Sicily. Carthaginian army in Sicily. Div.
nysius returns into Syracuse: is beaten by Hicetas. Hicetas gains Syracuse. Timo.
leon's escape from Rhegium. Timoleon routs llicctas, and gains Syracuse. Philip
invades ibe Illyrians. Dionysius expelled. Timoleon makes gond laws. Philip ive
vades Thrace. — 12. Acts of Timoleon in Sicily. Preparations of the Carthaginians
against Timoleon. Remarkable siege of Perinthes by Philip. Pexodorus expels bis
brother Adam from the principality in Caria. Byzantium besieged by Philip.-13.
The Athenians aid Byzantium. Philip raises the siege. The Caribaginians transport
forces into Sicily. Remarkable victory of Timoleon over the Carthaginians. Acts of
Timoleon in Sicily. Works of Hiero in Sicily.- -- 14. Elatea taken by Philip. Great
consternations in Athens for fear of Philip. The Baotians join with the Allienians,
through the solicitations of Demosthenes. Python, a famous orator. Battle of Chap-
ronea, between Philip and the Athenians. Lysicles the Athenian general put to death.
Philip rebuked by Demades; made general of Greece. Timoleon dies. 15. Phi.
lip consults the oracle at Delphos. Marries his daughter Cleopatra to the king of
Epirus. Encouraged to the Persian war by Neoptolemus's rer#. Philip's pride.
His juurder. Cause of it, how it was done, and by whoin
BOOK XVII.
Ckar. I. Conspiracies of the cities against Alexander. The Athenians send ambassadors
to Alexander, to beg pardon. He is made general by the Amphictyons. Attalus killed
by Alexander's command. Wickedness of Bagoas. Darius commended. Raises
forces. Description of mount Ida. Alexander invades the Illyrians and oiliers,
Thebes besieged by Alexander, and razed. Miseries of Thebes. Prodigies. Alex.
ander demands Demosthenes and others to be delivered up to him by the Athenians:
their answer. He returns into Macedonia, and feasts his soldiers.--2. Alexander
lands his army in Asia. Barile at Granicus. Forces of the Persians and of Alexan.
der. Alexander kills Spitbrobates; near being killed by Rhosaces. Miletus besieged
and taken. Ada, queen of Caria, meets Alexander. Halicarnassus besieged, taken,
and sacked. Strange act of the Marmareuses. -3. Mitylene taken by Memnon,
Darius's general. This successes. He dies. Charidemus the Athenian injustly put
to death by Darius. Alexander falls sick: is recovered by Philip. Alexander seizes
Alexander of Lyricestes, on account of bis mother's letters. Alexander takes Issus.
692
CONTENTS.
:
Diemorable battle at Issus, where the mother, wife, two daughters, and son of Darius
were taken. Alexander's noble bebaviour towards them. Darius's letters and offers
to Alcxander. Darius prepares another artiy.--- -4. Alexander marches towards
Egypt: besieges Tyre. Prodigies at Tyre. The Tyrians bind Apollo with golden
chains. Inventions of the Tyrians to defend themselves. Advancenent of Ballominus,
a poor man, to be king of Tyre. Acts of Agis and Amyntas. Amyntas killed, and all
his soldiers. Alexander takes Gaza by storin: is presented by the Greciatis.-
5. Alexander makes a journey to the temple of Jupiler Ammon. He is presented by
the Cyreneans. Description of the place about the temple. Wonderful properties of the
fountain Solis. Building of Alexandria, Alexander's answer to Darius's ambassadors.
Alexander passes over the river Tigris with great hazard. Preparations on both sides
for ballie. The Persians routed at the famous battle at Arbela.–6. The Grecians
conspire to revolt. Memuon rebels in Thrace. Antipater marches against him. The
Lacedæmonians raise an army; are routed by Antipater, and Agis their king killed.
-7. Alexander comes to Babylon. Wealth found there. Views his troops at
Sitacana. Riches there. Thence goes into :he country of the Uxians. Marches
towards Persepolis. Company of maimed Greeks meet Alexander: bis bounty to then.
He takes Persepolis: gives it up to the plunder of the soldiers. Riches of the citadel
of Persepolis. Alexander's feast at Persepolis. Persepolis barut at the instigation
of Thais. Darius murdered---S. Bessus stirs up the Bucırians. Alexander discharges
the Greek auxiliaries with rewards. River Suboetes. He euters Hyrcania; its riche
ness.
Enters the Mardian country. Loses his brave horye; which is restored. Tha-
lestris the Amazonian queen meets him, He falls into the effeminacy of the Persians.
Enters Drangina. Plot against Alexander. Philotas and others put to death, He
marches against the Arimaspi. Subdues Arachosia.-----9. Alexander marches against
the Puropamisades. His troublesome march. Comes to mount Caucasus. Bartle in
Aria by Alexander's officers against Satbarzanes, who is killed in a single combat by
Erigyns. Bessiis brought to Alexander; his punishment. Alexander kills so ne bar-
barians unexpectedly, afier they had surrendered their city. le marches to the river
Indos. Mophis's remarkable delivery up of bimself and his army:-- 10. Alexander
overcones Porus. How apes are taken. Strange serpents for venom, Large trees.
He marches against the Andrasijans, Cathari, and against Sophithes. Custom of tbema
under Sophithes. Indian dogs. Alexander entertained by Pbigens. The Macedo.
nians refuse to inarch against the Gandarila. Alexander leaves monumenis behind
him at the river Hydaspes. Nicæa and Bucephalus built. The Iberians present
Alexander. Ile routs the Agalasses. Is in danger in the river Indus, by uburipools.
Marches against the Oxydraea and Mallii. The king leaps off the wall into the town.
Duel between Coragus and Dioxippus. The Sambestæ submit to Alexander; and also
the Sogdiani and Massani. Subulucs Musicanus, Port:canus, and Sambus. Poisoned
weapons. The king's dream. Comes into the main ocean. Conics into Gedrosia,
Savageness of the people. His arnıy near perishing in Gedrosia. Comes into Car.
menia. Punishes the Borincial Gorennours. Nearchus returns. Islands covered at
high rides. Strange death of Calinus. Alexander marries Satira. Harpalus's luxury.
Alexander seizes with his own hand then that had mutinied.-ll. Alexander mixes
twenty thousand Persian darters with his army. Marchies from Susa. Bagistame
breeds abundance of horses. Hephaestion dies at Ecbatana. The Lanian war. He
invades the Cussæi. Marches towards Babylon. The Chaidean astrologers dissuade
him from coming thither. He enters Babylon - -12. Ambassadors come to Alexe
arder from all parts. He buries Hephæstion with great state. Prodigies before
Alexander's death. His death. Darius's niother starves herself.
BOOK XVIII.
Cuar. 1. Quarrels about a successor to Alexander. Aridæus niade king. The pro-
vinces divided amongst the chief conimanners. Matiers contained in Alexander's
note-books. Meleager executed by Perdiccas. The Grecians revolt. Description
of Asia. Pythun sent against the revolting Grecians, who were all cut off. The La-
mian war: the cause of it. Alexander's epistle to the exiles. Leusthenes, the Athe.
van general. Lamia besieged. Leosthenes killed: Antiphilas placed in his room.
-2. Puolemy gains Egypt. Leagues withi Antipater. Lysimachus enters Thrace,
Leonatus comes to relieve Antipater, and is rouied. The Grecians beaten at sea.
l'erdiccas conquers Ariarathes, prince of Cappadocia; crucities him; delivers the pro-
vince to Euweues. The Grecians quite routed by Craterus and Anupater. The
CONTENTS,
693
F"
Athenians at lengtb submit, afier all the rest but the Ætolians. End of the Lamian
war. War in Cyrene by Thimbron. Ophelas routes Thimbron. Cyrene gained by
Ptolemy. Larissa sacked. Destruction of the Isaurians by themselves. Perdiccas
affects the kingdom of Macedon; is opposed by Antigonus. The Ætolians blocked
up by Craterus and Antipater. Antigonus discovers Perdiccas's design. Peace niade
with the Ætolians. Perdiccas marches against Ptolemy, into Egypt.- -3. Descrip-
tion of Alexander's funeral chariot. Ptolemy honoured in Egypt. Perdiccas prepares
for going into Egypt against Ptolemy. Eumenes beats Neoptolemus, who deserted.
Battle between Eumenes and Craterus, who was killed with Neoptolemus. Combat
between Neoptolemus and Eumenes. Perdiccas comes into Egypt; assaults the fort
called the Camel's Wall; his miserable loss in the river Nile; is killed. Ptolemy
makes Aridæus and Python protectors of the kings. Eumenes condemned to die. The
Ætolians invade Thessaly. Polyperchon routs the Ætolians. The provinces again
divided by Aridæus. Antigonus routs Eumenes, who flies to Nora. Antigonus besieges
Nora. Eumenes's invention to exercise the horse. Ptolemy gains Syria and Phuni-
cia by Nicanor.-4. Antigonus routs Alcetas in Pisidia, and takes Attalus. Alcetas
received into Termessus, and there protected. He is murdered there treacherously:
his body inbumanly used by Antigonus. Antipater's death, Antipater pots Demeas,
one of the Athenian ambassadors, to death. Polyperchon made chief in Macedonia,
Cassander conspires to put him out. Antigonus's plots to be sovereign of all. Ari-
dæus secures hinself in Phrygia: besieges Cyzicum. Antigonus goes to relieve it.
Eumenes got out of Nora by Antigonus's order. Antigonus's further acts, Various
fortunes of Eumenes. Council in Macedonia called by Polyperchon against Cassan-
der. Decree of the council. Polyperchon invites Olympias out of Epirus into Ma-
cedonia. Writes to Eumenes to join with the kings.--5. Polyperchon courts Eume-
nes to assist the kings. Eumenes's prudence amongst the Macedonian captains.
Prolemy sends to the captains and others not to assist Eumenes. Antigonus contrives
to kill Eumenes; who marches into Phænicia. Nicanor deceives the Athenians, and
still keeps Monychia, and subtilely gets the Piræus. Ordered by Olympias to deliver
the Piræus and Monychia to the Athenians; but he shifts it off. Alexander, son of
Polyperchon enters Attica; secretly corresponds with Nicanor, and displeases the
Athenians. Phacion's hard usage at his trial in Athens; is condemned and executed,
Cassander arrives at the Piræus. Polyperchon comes against him, but returns. Bes
sieges Megalopolis; but is there completely baffled, and lis elephants destroyed by a
stratagem Sea-tight between Clitus and Nicanor. Nicanor beaten. Clitus afterwards
routed by Nicanor, is killed in bis tight to Macedonia. Antigonus goes after Eume-
Eumenes near losing his army by the breach of a dyke in Babylonia. The
Greek cities rerolt to Cassander, The Athenians make peace with him. He kills
Nicanor.
nes,
BOOK XIX.
Chap. I. Agathocles's parentage and education: his rise : his stratagems: his bloody
massacre at Syracuse. He gains the sovereign power.
The affairs of Italy. Olym-
pias returns into Macedonia by Polypercho'i's means. The arinies revolt to her. Her
cruelties. She murders Eurydice, and Aridæus her husband. Affairs in Asia,
Eumenes and seleucus. Eumenes joined by many of the captains. Number of their
forces. He comes to Susa. Attalus and others in prisoned by Antigonus in a strong
castle; seeking to escape are afterwards besieged, and taken.--2. Antigonus
marches to the Tigris arier Eumenes. Eumenes cuts off a great many of his men there.
Antigonus goes into Media. Eumenes comes to Persepolis. Description of Persia.
Peucestes's great feast. Eumenes's policy. His tale of the lion. Battle in Parete-
ceni, between Antigonus and Eumenes. Antigonus returns into Media. Story of
Ceteus's two wives, striving which should be burnt. Eumenes marcbes to Gabene;
Cassander to Macedonia. Olympias goes to Pydna; is there besieged
The Epirots
forsake their king, and join with Cassander. Antigonus designs to surprise Eumenes,
who stops his march by a stratagem. Last battle between them in Gabene. Eumenes
basely delivered ap. Antigonus returns to Media, Dreadful eari hquakes in the
country of Rouges.-3. Inundations at Rhodes. Antigonus kills Python, getting
him into his power by dissimulation. Toen he warches into Persia. Revolters from
Antigonus cut off in Media. le divides the provinces of Asia, and contrives to des-
truy all the Argyraspides. Gets great treasure in Susa. Cassander besieges Olympias
in Pydna: the great distress to which it was reduced. Amphipolis surrendored to
Cassander. He hills Olympias. Narries Thessalonices. Bailds Cassandria. Ime
694
CONTENTS
nesus.
prisons Roxana and her son Alexander. His expedition into Peloponnesus against
Alexander the son of Polyperchon. History of Thebes. Cassander rebuilds Thebes.
1. Antigonus's army feasted by Seleucus in Babylon. Quarrels with Seleucis,
who flies to Ptolems, and is kindly received. Ptolemy, Seleucus, Cassander,
and Lysimachus, join against Antigonus. They send ambassadors to him, who winters
in Cilicia. He goes into Plamcia, and there builds ships: besieges Tyre. Praise
of Phylla, wile of Demetrius. Aristodemus raises forces for Antigonus in Pelopon-
Acts of Ptolemy, one of Artigonus's captains. Antigonus's policy. Tyre
delivered. The agreement of Ptolemy's captains, and the rest at Cyprus. The acts
of Seleucis. A Heel comes to Anugonus from the Hellespont and Rhodes. Things
done in Peloponnesus. Cassander's acis there and in Greece. Great victory by sea
and land oblamed by Polyclitus, Seleucus's lieutenant: he is rewarded by Prolemy.
Acts of Agathocles in Sicily. The Romans make war against the Samnites.---5.
The acts of Aristodemus, Antigonus's general in Peloponnesus. The Dimeans in
Achala seek to free themselves from Cassander's garrison: they take the citadel.
Alexander, son of Polyperchon, assassinated. Praise of Cratesipolis, his wife. The
acts of Cassander in Aiulia, and other parts of Greece. Cruelty of the Ætolians.
Cassander sends an army into Caria, and Aristotle with a fleet to Lemnos. The acts of
Cassunder's army in Caria. Antigonus leaves his son Demetrius in Syria, to watch
Ptolemy. His troublesome march into Asia. The affairs of Sicily. Acrotatus's mis.
government and cruelties in Sicily. Acts of Agathocles. Affairs of Italy.
6. Several cities revolt: Lysimachus comes against them. Pbilip, Cassander's gene-
ral, routs the Epirots and Etolians. Cassander agrees with Antigonus. Anugonus
gains the cities in Caria. Cassander's acts in Greece. The Samnites routed by the
Romans. Polemon sent by Anugonus into Greece to set the cities at liberty. Acts
of Artigonus und Cassander. Polemon's acts in Greece for Antigonus. Ptolemy goes
against Cyrene and Cyprus; and then against Demetrius. Battle with Demetrius, at
Gaza. Ptolemy takes Tyre. Acts of Antigonas's commanders in Greece. The
Epirots make Alcetas king, who is beaten by Lyciscus, Cassander's general; and is
beaten again,by the other. Cassander goes against the Apolloniales. Seleucus reco-
vers Babylon with a small army. Demetrius routs Cilles, Ptolemy's general. Ptolemy
returns to Egypt, after wasting Samaria, Gaza, Joppa, &c. Athenæus sent against
the Nabatheans by Antigonus. Customs oftbe Arabians. Description of the Asphal.
tites, or Lake of Sudom. Demetrius sent against Seleucus in Babylon. Wars between
the Romans and Samnites in Italy. Conduct of Agathocles in Sicily-_-7. Cassander,
Ptoleny, and Lysimachus, make peace with Antigonus. Cassander murders Roxana
and her son. The governors take the title of kings upon them. The Carthaginians
raise forces against Agathocles. Four thousand Gelans nuurdered by Agathocles.
Battle between Agathocles and Amilcar the Carthaginian, at Himera. Agathocles
routed. Several cities revolt from Agathocles.
BOOK XX.
CHAP. I. Agathocles designs to invade Africa. His cruelty pursued in bis voyage.
Eclipse of the sun, very great. Lands in Africa: burns his strips. His successes in
Africa. Hammo and Bomilcar nade generals in Africa. Battle between them and
Agathocles, who routs them, and hilis fanno. His stratagem by owls. Cruel super-
stion of the Carthaginians in sacrificing iheir children. Actions at Syracuse. Acts
of Agathocles in Africa. Acts of Cassander in Macedonia. Polyperchon endeavours
to restore Hercules, the son of Alexander. Miserable destruction of Nicocles and
his family at Cyprus. Wars of Parisades's sons, king of the Cimmerian Bosphorus.
Valour of Satyrus, one of the sons; his death. Sad death of Eumelus, another of the
sons.--2. Acts of Piolemy in Cilicia and elsewhere. Polyperchon murders Her-
cules, Alexander's son, hy the instigation of Cassander. Amulcar taken, and put to
death by the Syracusans. His head sent to Agathocles in Africa. Transactions in
Sicily. Archayathus, the son of Agatbocles, kills Lyciscus: he and his son in great
danger by the
army Affairs in Italy. Works of Appius Claudius: the Appian way.
Ptolemy comes to Corinth: his acts there. Cleopatra, Alexander's sister, killed by
the governor of Sardis. Further acts of Agathocles in Africa. Ophelas decoyed and.
cut off by Agathocles. Ophelas's troublesome march to Agathocles. Lamias's cruelty,
and the story of her. Bomilcar seeks to be prince of Carthage, but is put to death
by the citizens. Agathocles sends the spoils of the Cyreneans to Syracuse: most of
thein lost in a storm. Affairs in Italy, -3. Demetrius frees all the Greciwu cities:
CONTENTS.
695
1
takes the Piræus at Athens. Demetrius Phalerius flies to Ptolemy. Honours given
to Demetrius in Athens. He sails to Cyprus: his acts there: besieges Salans. His
great engines. Ptolemy sails to Cyprus. Sea fight between Ptolemy and Demetrius,
wherein Ptolemy is routed. Antigonus takes the title of king, as likewise do several
other captains. Agathocles's acts at Utica in Africa. Ties his prisoners to a great
engine. The sorts of people in Africa. Xenodochus routed in Sicily by Agathocles's
captains. Acts of Agathocles in Sicily. What was done by Archagathns in Africa,
Maschala inhabited by some Greeks that canie from Troy. Apes, their custom among
the Pithecuse. The Carthaginians draw thirty thousand men out of Carthage. Mise
fortunes to Agathocles's captains in Africa. The army blocked up, and almost starved.
Agathocles beats the Carthaginians at sea near Syracuse. His captain Leptines ha-
rasses the Agrigentines. Agathocles feasts the Syracusans. His jocund temper: his
cruelty. Routed in Africa. Carthaginian camp burut. Misfortune afterwards to
both armies by one cause. Agathocles put in chains by his own men. Steals out of
Africa. The soldiers kill his two sons. They make peace with the Carthaginians.
Agathocles's exceeding cruelty at Egesta; and Afterwards at Syracuse. ---4. Antia.
gonus's march into Egypt. Lost some of his ships in a tempest near Raphia. He
returns into Syria. Dinocrates prevails in Sicily. Agathocles is willing to resign his
government; but Dinocratcs stands off. What was done in Italy. Antigonus's war
with the Rbodians. Rhodes besieged by Demetrius Agathocles routs Dinocrates's
great army with a few men. His cruelty to those who submitted upon terms, where
he butchers seven thousand. Dinocrates in favour with Agathocles; he betrays the
confederates. Further transactions in Italy.--5. Siege of Rhodes continued.
Acts of the sea-captains of the Rhodians. Peace made with the Rhodians. Acts of
Agathocles in the Lipari islands. Acts of Demetrius in Greece. War between the
Tarentines and Lucànians. Acts of Cleonymus the Spartan. Cassander sends to
Antigonus to make peace, who refuses. Lysimachus joins with Cassander, and so
docs Ptolemy and Seleucus, against Antigonus: he marches against Lysimachus.
Demetrius's further acts in Greece. The arinies of Cassander and Demetrius. De.
metrius leaves Greece, and goes with his army to his father in Asia, after peace made
with Cassander. The misiortunes of Plistarchus at sea. Ptolemy besieges Sidon,
.
but returns to Egypt opon a false report. Seleucus marches from Babylon with a
great army.
FRAGMENTS, SUPPLEMENT,
&c. &c.
W, M: Dowall, Printer, Pemberton Row,
London,
1
|
1

ВОNОт сроле
131 APR 6
BOUND IN LIBRARY
JAN 2 1908
UNIVERSITY OF MICH GAN
MYNDIR
3 9015 00837 5696