History of the Peloponnesian War

The Athenians sent it upon the plea of their common descent, but in reality to prevent the exportation of Sicilian corn to Peloponnese and to test the possibility of bringing Sicily into subjection.

Accordingly they established themselves at Rhegium in Italy, and from thence carried on the war in concert with their allies.

Summer was now over. The winter following, the plague a second time attacked the Athenians; for although it had never entirely left them, still there had been a notable abatement in its ravages.

The second visit lasted no less than a year, the first having lasted two; and nothing distressed the Athenians and reduced their power more than this.

No less than four thousand four hundred heavy infantry in the ranks died of it and three hundred cavalry, besides a number of the multitude that was never ascertained.