With an immense array of barges, which for leagues covered the surface of the Dnieper, and with an immense squadron of cavalry following along the banks, he commenced the descent of the river.

The emperor was informed that the whole river was filled with barges, descending for the siege and sack of Constantinople.

In terror he sent embassadors to Igor to endeavor to avert the storm.
The imperial embassadors met the flotilla near the mouth of the Dnieper, and offered, in the name of the emperor, to pay the same tribute to Igor which had been paid to Oleg, and even to increase that tribute.

At the same time they endeavored to disarm the cupidity of the foe by the most magnificent presents.

Igor halted his troops, and collecting his chieftains in counsel, communicated to them the message of the emperor.