History of the Peloponnesian War

And then, when the Peloponnesians after this move formed their ships in a circle, they kept sailing round the Peloponnesian fleet, trying to throw it into confusion. But those who were facing the Corcyraeans, perceiving this manoeuvre and fearing a repetition of what happened at Naupactus,[*](cf. 2.84.) came to the rescue, and the whole fleet, now united, advanced simultaneously upon the Athenians.

Thereupon the Athenians began to retire, backing water,[*](ie. keeping their faces to the enemy.) hoping at the same time that the Corcyraean ships might as far as possible escape into harbour,[*](ie. with as many ships as possible; as it was they lost thirteen ships.) as they themselves retired slowly and the enemy's attacks were directed only against them.