BOOK V.
[C.1] Such were the deeds they did and such the words they spoke.
Then Cyrus bade them set a guard over the share chosen for Cyaxares, selecting those whom he knew were most attached to their lord, "And what you have given me," he added, "I accept with pleasure, but I hold it at the service of those among you who would enjoy it the most." At that one of the Medes who was passionately fond of music said, "In truth, Cyrus, yesterday evening I listened to the singing-girls who are yours to-day, and if you could give me one of them, I would far rather be serving on this campaign than sitting at home." And Cyrus said, "Most gladly I will give her; she is yours.

And I believe I am more grateful to you for asking than you can be to me for giving; I am so thirsty to gratify you all." So this suitor carried off his prize.

[2] And then Cyrus called to his side Araspas the Mede, who had been his comrade in boyhood.

It was he to whom Cyrus gave the Median cloak he was wearing when he went back to Persia from his grandfather's court.

Now he summoned him, and asked him to take care of the tent and the lady from Susa.