s. Here, by good fortune, I met my old friend Aristomachus of
Sparta, who, as he was formerly in command of the Cyprian troops, will
most likely be nominated my successor. I should rejoice to know that
such a first-rate man was going to take my place, if I did not at the
same time fear that his eminent services will make my own poor efforts
seem even more insignificant than they really were."

But here he was interrupted by Aristomachus, who called out: "Praise
enough, friend Phanes! Spartan tongues are stiff; but if you should
ever stand in need of my help, I will give you an answer in deeds, which
shall strike the right nail on the head."

Rhodopis smiled her approval, and giving her hand to each, said:
"Unfortunately, the only conclusion to be drawn from your story, my poor
Phanes, is that you cannot possibly remain any longer in this country. I
will not blame you for your thoughtlessness, though you might have known
that you were exposing yourself to great danger for a mere trifle.
The really wise and brave man never undertakes a hazardous enterprise,
unless the possible advantage and disadvantage that may accrue to him
from it can be reckoned at least as equal. Recklessness is quite as
foolish, but not so blamable as cowardice, for though both do the man an
injury, the latter alone can dishonor him.

"Your thoughtlessness, this time, has very nearly cost your life, a life
dear to many, and which you ought to save for a nobler end. We cannot
attempt to keep you here; we should thereby only injure ourselves
without benefitting you. This noble Spartan must now take your place as
head and representative of the Greek nation at the Egyptian court, must
endeavor to protect us against the encroachment of the priests, and to
retain for us the royal favor. I take your hand, Aristomachus, and
will not let it go till you have promised that you will protect, to the
utmost of your power, every Greek, however humble, (as Phanes did before
you), from the insolence of the Egyptians, and will sooner resign your
office than allow the smallest wrong done to a Hellene to go unpunished.
We are but a few thousands among millions of enemies, but through
courage we are great, and unity must keep us strong. Hitherto the Greeks
in Egypt have lived like brothers; each has been ready to offer himself
for the good of all, and all for each, and it is just this unity that
has made us, and must keep us, powerful.

"Oh! could we but bestow this