s through Bias,
has made himself a brother to all the betting masters. I understand you
have arranged it so that whether Glaucon wins or loses you will be none
the poorer."

The Athenian set down his cup.

"Because I would not let my dear friend's sanguine expectations blind all
my judgment is no reason why you should seek this interview, Lycon," he
rejoined tartly. "If this is the object of your summons, I'm better back
in my own tent."

Lycon tilted back against the table. His speech was nothing curt or
"Laconic"; it was even drawling. "On the contrary, dear Democrates, I was
only commending your excellent foresight, something that I see
characterizes all you do. You are the friend of Glaucon. Since Aristeides
has been banished, only Themistocles exceeds you in influence over the
Athenians. Therefore, as a loyal Athenian you must support your champion.
Likewise, as a man of judgment you must see that I--though this pentathlon
is only a by-play, not my business--will probably break your Glaucon's back
to-morrow. It is precisely this good judgment on your part which makes me
sure I do well to ask an interview--for something else."

"Then quickly to business."

"A few questions. I presume Themistocles to-day conferred with Leonidas?"

"I wasn't present with them."

"But in due time Themistocles will tell you everything?"

Democrates chewed his beard, not answering.

"_Pheu!_ you don't pretend Themistocles distrusts you?" cried the Spartan.

"I don't like your questions, Lycon."

"I am very sorry. I'll cease them. I only wished to-night to call to your
mind the advantage of two such men as you and I becoming friends. I may be
king of Lacedaemon before long."

"I knew that before, but where's your chariot driving?"

"Dear Athenian, the Persian chariot is now driving toward Hellas. We
cannot halt it. Then let us be so wise that it does not pass over us."

"Hush!" Democrates spilled the cup as he started. "No 'Medizing' talk
before me. Am I not Themistocles's friend?"

"Themistocles and Leonidas will seem valiant fools after Xerxes comes. Men
of foresight--"

"Are never traitors."

"Beloved Democrates," sneered the Spartan, "in one year the most patriotic
Hellene will be he who has made the Persian yoke the most endurable. Don't
blink at destiny."

"Don't be overcertain."

"Don't grow deaf and blind. Xerxes has been collecting troops these four
years. Every wind across the AEgean tells how the Great K