His wealth--the accumulations of so long a term of office--enabled him to hire the services of a body of Greek mercenaries, who were commanded by an Athenian, called Lycon.

On these troops he placed his chief dependence; but they failed him in the hour of need.

Tissaphernes, the Persian general sent against him, bribed Lycon and his men, who thereupon quitted Pissuthnes and made common cause with his adversaries.

The unfortunate satrap could no longer resist, and therefore surrendered upon terms, and accompanied Tissaphernes to the Court.

Darius, accustomed now to disregard the pledged word of his officers, executed him forthwith, and made over his satrapy to Tissaphernes, as a reward for his zeal.