39
Toxaris It was the fourth day of friendship between Dandamis and Amizokes, that is, since they had drunk each other's blood, when the Sauromatians invaded our country with ten thousand horsemen and an army of foot reported to be three times as many. Since they fell upon us when we were not expecting an invasion, they put all our troops to flight, killing many of the warriors and capturing the survivors, except a few who were quick enough to swim across the river to where the other half of our camp was with part of the wagons. For our leaders had seen fit for some reason or other to encamp us in that way on both banks of the Tanais. They next proceeded to drive off our flocks, secure the prisoners, pillage the tents and seize the wagons, most of which they captured, men and all, and they insulted our wives and concubines under our very eyes, which nearly maddened us.
40
Now Amizokes was taken prisoner, and as they were leading him off he called upon his friend by name, cruelly bound as he was, and reminded him of the cup of blood. When Dandamis heard him he did not hesitate an instant, but swam across to the enemy with all of us looking on. The Sauromatians, lifting their darts, set on him as if to kill him, but he shouted the word "Ziris!" When a man says this word the enemy do not kill him, but receive him as a messenger about exchange of prisoners. So he was led to the commander, and of him he demanded his friend. The commander asked for a ransom, saying the prisoner should not go forth unless he got a great price for him.
