Histories

Being so resolved and having composed their quarrels, they first sent three men as spies into Asia (continent)Asia. These came to Sardis [28.0167,38.475] (Perseus) Sardis and took note of the king's army. They were discovered, however, and after examination by the generals of the land army, they were led away for execution.

They were condemned to die, but when Xerxes heard of it, he blamed the judgment of his generals and sent some of his guards, charging them to bring the spies before him if they should be found alive.