Book 8
4.23
I envy you for that, Cyrus, said Hystaspas while they were still laughing, more than for anything else in your kingdom.Envy me for what? asked Cyrus. Why, that, frigid as you are, you can still make us laugh.Well said Cyrus, and would you not give a great deal to have made these jokes and to have them reported to the lady with whom you wish to have the reputation of being a witty fellow? Thus, then, these pleasantries were exchanged.
4.24
After this he brought out some articles of feminine adornment for Tigranes and bade him give them to his wife, because she had so bravely accompanied her husband throughout the campaigns; to Artabazus he gave a golden goblet and to the Hyrcanian a horse and many other beautiful presents. And you, Gobryas, he said, I will present with a husband for your daughter.
4.25
You will please present him with me, then,Hystaspas receives the hand of Gobryas’s daughter will you not, said Hystaspas, that so I may get the collection of proverbs? Ah, but have you property enough to match the girl’s fortune? asked Cyrus. Yes, by Zeus, he answered, and several times over. And where is this property of yours? asked Cyrus. Right there, said he, in your chair; for you are a friend of mine. I am satisfied, said Gobryas; and at once stretching out his right hand he added: Give him to me, Cyrus; I will accept him.
