In the first place," he added, "you will set apart for the gods whatever our priests prescribe, and after that you must select for Cyaxares what you think will please him most." [52] At that they laughed, and said they must choose him a bevy of fair women.

"So let it be," said Cyrus, "fair women, and anything else you please.

And when you have chosen his share, the Hyrcanians must see to it that our friends among the Medes who followed us of their own free will shall have no cause to find fault with their own portion.

[53] And the Medes on their side must show honour to the first allies we have won, and make them feel their decision was wise when they chose us for their friends.

And be sure to give a share of everything to the messenger who came from Cyaxares and to his retinue; persuade him to stay on with us, say that I would like it, and that he could tell Cyaxares all the better how matters stood.