Res Gestae

Now there are some cities in the Taurica, conspicuous among which are Eupatoria, Dandace, and Theodosia, with other smaller towns, which are not contaminated with human sacrifices.

So far the peak of the bow is thought to extend; the remainder of it, gently curved and lying under the Bear in the heavens, we shall now follow as far as the left side of the Thracian Bosporus, as the order demands, with this warning; that while the bows of all other races are bent with the staves curved, in those of the Scythians alone, or the Parthians, since a straight rounded[*](These apparently contradictory words have given a good deal of trouble, but the meaning is plain. The handle is straight laterally, but is rounded like a broomstick for example, or a hoe-handle, and for the same reason; see note on § 10, above.) handle divides them in the middle, the ends are bent downwards on both sides and far apart,[*](That is, the Greek bow is bent in a continuous curve; in the Scythian, the two sides are bent, but not the handle.) presenting the form of a waning moon.[*](I.e. in the gibbous stage; see xx. 3, 11, notes.)

Well then, at the very beginning of this district, where the Riphaean mountains sink to the plain, dwell the Aremphaei, just men and known for their gentleness, through whose country flow the rivers Chronius and Visula. Near them are the Massagetae, Halani, and Sargetae, as well as several other obscure peoples whose names and customs are unknown to us.

Then at a considerable distance the Carcinitian gulf opens up, with a river of the same name, and the grove of Trivia,[*](Diana; on the origin of the name, see Varro, L.L. vii. 16.) sacred in those regions.

Next the Borysthenes,[*](Modern Dnieper.) rising in the mountains of the Nervii, rich in waters from its own springs, which are increased by many tributaries, and mingle with the sea in high-rolling