MELPOMENE. 119

" lVTen of Ionia, I have thought proper to change
my original determination concerning this bridge: do
you take this cord, and observe what I require; from
the time of my departure against Scythia, do not
fail every day to untie one of these knots. If they
shall be all loosened before you see me again, you
are at liberty to return to your country; but in the
mean time it is my desire that you preserve and de­
fend this bridge, by which means you will; effectually
oblige me." As soon as Darius had spoken, he pro­
ceeded on his march.