Histories

Finally he persuaded him and set up residence there. He dug up the grave and collected the bones, then hurried off to Sparta [22.4417,37.0667] (Perseus) Sparta with them. Ever since then the Spartans were far superior to the Tegeans whenever they met each other in battle. By the time of Croesus' inquiry, the Spartans had subdued most of the Peloponnese [22,37.5] (region), Greece, EuropePeloponnese.

Croesus, then, aware of all this, sent messengers to Sparta [22.4417,37.0667] (Perseus) Sparta with gifts to ask for an alliance, having instructed them what to say. They came and said:

“Croesus, King of Lydia [27.516,38.683] (region (general)), Turkey, Asia Lydia and other nations, has sent us with this message: ‘Lacedaemonians, the god has declared that I should make the Greek my friend; now, therefore, since I learn that you are the leaders of Greece [22,39] (nation), EuropeHellas, I invite you, as the oracle bids; I would like to be your friend and ally, without deceit or guile.’”

Croesus proposed this through his messengers; and the Lacedaemonians, who had already heard of the oracle given to Croesus, welcomed the coming of the Lydians and swore to be his friends and allies; and indeed they were obliged by certain benefits which they had received before from the king.

For the Lacedaemonians had sent to Sardis [28.0167,38.475] (Perseus) Sardis to buy gold, intending to use it for the statue of Apollo which now stands on Thornax [*](A mountain north-east of Sparta [22.4417,37.0667] (Perseus) Sparta, overlooking the Eurotas valley.) in Laconia [22.583,37] (department), Peloponnese, Greece, Europe Laconia; and Croesus, when they offered to buy it, made them a free gift of it.