THALIA. 61

may bo easily be taken, that one of its own citizens
made himself master of it, with the help of fifteen
men in arms, and still retains the supreme authority?"
This made a deep impression upon the mind of Ora­
tes ; but without meditating revenge against the per­
son who had affronted him, he determined to effect
the death of Polycrates, on whose.account he had
been reproached.

CXXII. There are some, but not many, who affirm
that Orates sent a messenger to Samos, to propose
some question to Polycrates, but of what nature, is
unknown; and that he found Polycrates in the men's
apartment, reclining on a couch, with Anacreon of
Teos by his side. The man advanced to deliver his
message; but Polycrates, either by accident, or to
demonstrate the contempt in which he held Orates,
continued all the time he was speaking with his face
towards the wall, and did not vouchsafe any reply.

CXXII. These are the two assigned motives for
the destruction of Polycrates: every one will prefer
that which seems most probable. Orates, who lived
at Magnesia, which is on the banks of the Mteander,
sent Myrsus, the Lydian, son of Oyges, with a mes­
sage to Polycrates at Samos. With the character of
Polycrates, Orates was well acquainted; for, except
Minos the Cnossian, or whoever before him accom­
plished it, he was the first Greek who formed the de­
sign of making himself master of the sea. But as far
as historical tradition may be depended upon, Poly­
crates is the only individual who projected the sub­
jection of Ionia and the islands. Perfectly aware of
these circumstances, Orates sent this message:

"Orcstes to Polycrates.

" I understand that you are revolving some vast
project in your mind, but have not money responsible
to your views. Be advised by me, and you will at the
same time promote your own advantage and preserve
me. I am informed, and I believe it to be true, that
king Cambyses has determined on my death. Re­
ceive, therefore, me with my wealth, part of which
shall be at your disposal, part at mine : with the as-

Voi. II. F