1. The city of Syracuse was once ruled over by a clever but very cruel man called Dionysius.
2. Perhaps he would not have been so harsh and cruel if he had been able to trust his people.
3. Pythias begged to be allowed to go and bid his relations in the country farewell, promising to return at a given time to suffer the death to which he had been condemned.
4. Time went on and the day fixed for his return drew near, but still he did not come.
5. Calling him and Damon to his side he entreated them to allow him to be a third in their friendship.
6. But a few minutes before the fatal time Pythias rushed in, and having warmly embraced his friend, he went forward to take his place. |
