Alexander the Great, reflecting on his friends degenerating into sloth and luxury, told them that it was a most slavish thing to luxuriate, and a most royal thing to labor.

Holy shadows of the dead, I’m not to blame for your cruel and bitter fate, but the accursed rivalry which brought sister nations and brother people, to fight one another. I do not feel happy for this victory of mine. On the contrary, I would be glad, brothers, if I had all of you standing here next to me, since we are united by the same language, the same blood and the same visions.

Are you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?

I consider not what Parmenio should receive, but what Alexander should give.

I am more afraid of one hundred sheep led by a lion than one hundred lions led by a sheep.