Evephēnus

, a Pythagorean philosopher, whom Dionysius condemned to death because he had alienated the people of Metapontum from his power. The philosopher begged leave of the tyrant to go and marry his sister, and promised to return in six months. Dionysius consented by receiving Eucritus, who pledged himself to die if Evephenus did not return in time. Evephenus returned at the appointed moment, to the astonishment of Dionysius, and delivered his friend Eucritus from the death which threatened him. The tyrant was so pleased with these two friends, that he pardoned Evephenus, and begged to share their friendship and confidence. Polyænus , bk. 5 .