Histories

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.