That is my opinion, and now you must lead us straight for Babylon." [C.3] And so the march continued, and on the fourth day they found themselves at the limit of the territory over which Gobryas ruled.

Since they were now in the enemy's country Cyrus changed the disposition of his men, taking the infantry immediately under his own command, with sufficient cavalry to support them, and sending the rest of the mounted troops to scour the land.

Their orders were to cut down every one with arms in his hands, and drive in the rest, with all the cattle they could find.

The Persians were ordered to take part in this raid, and though many came home with nothing for their trouble but a toss from their horses, others brought back a goodly store of booty.
[2] When the spoil was all brought in, Cyrus summoned the officers of the Medes and the Hyrcanians, as well as his own peers, and spoke as follows: "My friends, Gobryas has entertained us nobly; he has showered good things upon us.

What say you then?
After we have set aside the customary portion for the gods and a fair share for the army, shall we not give all the rest of the spoil to him?
Would it not be a noble thing, a sign and symbol at the outset that we desire to outdo in well-doing those who do good to us ?" [3] At that all his hearers with one consent applauded, and a certain officer rose and said: "By all means, Cyrus, let us do so.