114 HISTORICAL TALES.

this land of Greece. In the end, after conversing
with his surgeon, he decided to send some confidential
agents there to gain information, with Democedes as
their guide. Fifteen such persons were chosen, with
orders to observe closely the coasts and cities of
Greece, obeying the suggestions and leadership of
Democedes. They were to bring back what informa-
tion they could,—and on peril of their lives to bring
back Democedes. If they returned without him it
would be a sorry home-coming for them.

The king then sent for Democedes, told him of the
proposed expedition and what part he was to take in
it, but imperatively bade him to return as soon as his
errand was finished. He was bidden to take with him
the wealth he had received, as presents for his father
and brothers. He would not suffer from its loss, since
as much, and more, would be given him on his return.
Lastly, orders were given that a store-ship, “ filled
with all manner of good things,” should be taken with
the expedition.

Democedes heard all this with the aspect of one to
whom it was new tidings. Come back? Of course
he would. He wished ardently to see Greece, but
for a steady place of residence he much preferred
Susa and the palace of his king. As for the gold
which had been given him, he would not take it
away. He wanted to find his house and property
on his return. The store-ship would answer for all
the presents he cared to make.

His shrewd reply left no shadow of doubt in the
heart of the king. The envoys proceeded to Sidon,
in Pheenicia, where two armed triremes and a large