Book 15
2.10
We shall better understand the position of the places about the above-mentioned mountainous tract, if we further examine the route which Alexander took from the Parthian territory to Bactriana, when he was in pursuit of Bessus. He came first to Ariana, next to the Drangae, where he put to death Philotas, the son of Parmenio, having detected his traitorous intentions. He despatched persons to EcbatanaCorresponding nearly with the present Hamadan. also to put the father to death as an accomplice in the conspiracy. It is said that these persons performed in eleven days, upon dromedaries, a journey of 30 or 40 days, and executed their business.
2.10
The Drangae resemble the Persians in all other respects in their mode of life, except that they have little wine. Tin is found in the country.None is said to be found there at the present day.
2.10
Alexander next went from the Drangae to the Euergetae,They were called Ariaspi; Cyrus, son of Cambyses, gave them the name Euergetae, benefactors, in consideration of the services which they had rendered in his expedition against the Scythians. (to whom Cyrus gave this name,) and to the Arachoti; then through the territory of the Paropamisadae at the setting of the Pleiad.At the beginning of winter. It is a mountainous country, and at that time was covered with snow, so that the march was performed with difficulty. The numerous villages, however, on their march, which were well provided with everything except oil, afforded relief in their distress. On their left hand were the summits of the mountains.
