Toxaris; Or, Friendship (47)

“The next question,” said Makentes, “is, what Ishall we do in this case?" "Let us parcel out the job," said Lonchates. "I, for my part, promise to bring to Arsakomas the head of Leukanor, and you must fetch him the bride." "Very good," said he. "And you, Arsakomas, seeing that this is a great business, must stay here to collect and make ready arms and horses and other equipment as much as you can get. For it is not unlikely that an army and a war will be what we shall need next. You will have no trouble in gathering a goodly following since you are a true man yourself, and our kinsmen are not few; but the best way will be to take your seat on the ox-hide." These plans were agreed to, and Lonchates went off, just as he was, direct to the Bosporos, and Makentes to the Machlyëans, both on horseback. Arsakomas stayed at home and addressed himself to the young men, armed a force of his kinsmen, and finally seated himself on the oxhide.