Note 432 — Chapter XXXIII · GROWTH OF THE PERSIAN EMPIRE.
Reading edition
Herodot. v, 52-53; viii, 98. “It appears to be a favorite idea with all barbarous princes, that the badness of the roads adds considerably to the natural strength of their dominions. The Turks and Persians are undoubtedly of this opinion: the public highways are, therefore, neglected, and particularly so towards the frontiers.” (Kinneir, Geog. Mem. of Pers. p. 43.)
The description of Herodotus contrasts favorably with the picture here given by Mr. Kinneir.