"We think," he added, "that they are trying to get a sight of our army.

For about thirty of them are riding ahead at a good round pace and they seem to be coming straight for our little company, perhaps to capture our look-out if they can, for there are only ten of us there." [13] At that Cyrus sent off a detachment from his own bodyguard, bidding them gallop up to the place, unseen by the enemy, and stay there motionless.

"Wait," he said, "until our own ten must leave the spot and then dash out on the thirty as they come up the hill.

And to prevent any injury from the larger body, do you, Hystaspas," said he, turning to the latter, "ride out with a thousand horse, and let them see you suddenly, face to face.

But remember not to pursue them out of sight, come back as soon as you have secured our post.