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Supplementum Epigraphicum Graecum: 59.834


LETTER FROM DIONYSIOS, CONCERNING MARITIME TRADE


Greek text: SEG_59.834  
Provenance:   Nikonion , north coast of Black Sea
Date:   c. 300 B.C.
Format:   see key to translations

This is a rare example of a private letter written in Greek that has survived outside Egypt.  It was discovered on two parts of an ostracon, excavated from the site of ancient Nikonion.  The complete text was first published in 2011 by B.Awaniowicz ( ZPE - academia.edu ); and his translation is reproduced here.



Dionysios sends his greetings to the household. Until now I am in good health and so is the son. You should in no way give in to weakness, but dispatch someone and instruct Marakates, that I loaded the boat with sand. After emptying the boat he should haul it up high, since except for this there is no hope. And there are nine medimnoi of barley with Possikrates. Possikrates is in good health. Receive from the Thoapsoi (?) a half-stater after returning the cloth.


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