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While the Persian leader was occupied in these labours, Tomyris sent
a herald to him, who said, "King of the Medes, cease to press this
enterprise, for thou canst not know if what thou art doing will be of
real advantage to thee. Be content to rule in peace thy own kingdom,
and bear to see us reign over the countries that are ours to govern.
As, however, I know thou wilt not choose to hearken to this
counsel, since there is nothing thou less desirest than peace and
quietness, come now, if thou art so mightily desirous of meeting the
Massagetae in arms, leave thy useless toil of bridge-making; let us
retire three days' march from the river bank, and do thou come across
with thy soldiers; or, if thou likest better to give us battle on thy
side the stream, retire thyself an equal distance." Cyrus, on this
offer, called together the chiefs of the Persians, and laid the
matter before them, requesting them to advise him what he should do.
All the votes were in favour of his letting Tomyris cross the stream,
and giving battle on Persian ground.
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