CHAPTER V.
Xerxes Conducts an Expedition into Egypt .-- He finally resolves on the Invasion of Greece .-- Vast Preparations for the Conquest of Europe .-- Xerxes Arrives at Sardis .-- Despatches Envoys to the Greek States, demanding Tribute .-- The Bridge of the Hellespont .-- Review of the Persian Armament at Abydos .-- Xerxes Encamps at Therme.
I.

On succeeding to the throne of the East (B.C.

485), Xerxes found the mighty army collected by his father prepared to execute his designs of conquest or revenge.

In the greatness of that army, in the youth of that prince, various parties beheld the instrument of interest or ambition.

Mardonius, warlike and enterprising, desired the subjugation of Greece, and the command of the Persian forces.