Histories

This oracle which was given to Eetion was in some way made known to the Bacchiadae. The earlier oracle sent to Corinth [22.9083,37.9083] (Perseus) Corinth had not been understood by them, despite the fact that its meaning was the same as the meaning of the oracle of Eetion, and it read as follows:

1. An eagle in the rocks has conceived, and will bring forth a lion,
2. Strong and fierce. The knees of many will it loose.
3. This consider well, Corinthians,
4. You who dwell by lovely Pirene and the overhanging heights of Corinth [22.9083,37.9083] (Perseus) Corinth.

This earlier prophecy had been unintelligible to the Bacchiadae, but as soon as they heard the one which was given to Eetion, they understood it at once, recognizing its similarity with the oracle of Eetion. Now understanding both oracles, they kept quiet but resolved to do away with the offspring of Eetion. Then, as soon as his wife had given birth, they sent ten men of their clan to the township where Eetion dwelt to kill the child.