Section 225. THE TWO ROBBERS. I.
Reading edition
We often condemn in others what we practise ourselves.
(Alexander the Great in his tent. A man with a fierce countenance, chained and fettered, brought before him.)
Alexander.—What, art thou the Thracian robber, of whose exploits I have heard so much?
Robber.—I am a Thracian, and a soldier.
Alexander.—A soldier?—a thief, a plunderer, an assassin! the pest of the country! I could honour thy courage, but I must detest and punish thy crimes.
Robber.—What have I done of which you can complain[1]?
Alexander.—Hast thou not set at defiance my authority, violated the public peace, and passed thy life[2] in injuring the persons[3] and properties of thy fellow-subjects[4]?
Robber.—Alexander! I am your captive. I must hear what you please to say, and endure what you please to inflict. But my soul is unconquered; and if I reply at all[5] to your reproaches, I will reply like a free man.
Alexander.—Speak freely. Far be it from me to take[6] the advantage of my power, to silence those with whom I deign to converse!
Robber.—I must then answer your question by another. How have you passed your life?
Alexander.—Like a hero. Ask Fame[7], and she will tell you. Among the brave, I have been the bravest; among sovereigns, the noblest; among conquerors, the mightiest.