Presently, entrusting Sardis [28.0167,38.475] (Perseus) Sardis to a Persian called Tabalus, and instructing Pactyes, a Lydian, to take charge of the gold of Croesus and the Lydians, he himself marched away to Hamadan [48.583,34.766] (inhabited place), Hamadan, Iran, Asia Ecbatana, taking Croesus with him, and at first taking no notice of the Ionians.

For he had Babylon [44.4,32.55] (deserted settlement), Babil, Iraq, AsiaBabylon on his hands and the Bactrian nation and the Sacae and Egyptians; he meant to lead the army against these himself, and to send another commander against the Ionians.