Aristomenes called the Messenians round him; the women and the children were placed in the centre of the band, guarded by his own son and that of the prophet.

Heading the troop himself, he rushed on the foe, and by his gestures and the shaking of his spear announced his intention to force a passage, and effect escape.

Unwilling yet more to exasperate men urged to despair, the Spartans made way for the rest of the besieged.

So fell Ira! (probably B.C.

662).