[310] We learn from the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea that tortoise and other shells formed an important element in the ancient commerce of the East with the West. For an account of Indian shells see British India of the Edinburgh Cabinet Library, III. c. v. pp. 136-144.
[311] Alexander had, however, by this time taken their capital. We learn from Arrian (Indika, c. 4) that their dominions extended to the junction of the Akesinês with the Indus.
[312] Lassen identifies this people with the Sambastai of Diodôros. Orosius calls them the Sabagrae. In Arrian the Sambastai appear as the Abastanoi, a name which transliterates the Sanskrit word avasthâna, which means, however, “a dwelling-place,” and does not denote a people. See note on Arrian, [p. 155].
[313] Two other tribes are mentioned by Arrian as having sent deputies to Alexander while in camp near the confluence, the Xathroi and the Ossadioi, concerning whom see notes on Arrian, [p. 156].
[314] Their alarm would no doubt be increased by the sight of the many coloured flags of the vessels, as we may infer from the words of Pliny (xix. 1): “The first attempt at dyeing canvas with the costliest hues for dyeing wearing apparel was made in the fleets of Alexander the Great when he was navigating the river Indus, for then his generals and prefects had distinguished by differences of colour the ensigns of their vessels, and the natives along the shore were lost in amazement at the variety of their colours. It was with a purple sail Cleopatra came with Antony to Actium, and fled therefrom. This was the colour of the admiral’s ensign.”
[315] Chachar opposite Mithânkôt, a little below the great confluence. See Note on Arrian.
[316] See Note on Arrian, [p. 156].
[317] Called Tyriaspês by Arrian. Oxyartes was Alexander’s father-in-law.
[318] For the Praesti and Porticanus see Note to Arrian, [p. 158].