Kitap 8
4.12
By Hera, said Hystaspas in reply, I am glad at any rate that I asked you this question, Cyrus. Why so, pray? asked Cyrus.Because I too shall try to do as he does, said he. Only I am not sure about one thing—I do not know how I could show that I rejoice at your good fortune. Am I to clap my hands or laugh or what must I do? You must dance the Persian dance,What the Persian dance was is not known; hence we miss the whole point of the joke. Obviously, however it was a dance with many gesticulations. At all events, Artabazus introduces his jest about the dance only to cut short the maudlin talk of Hystaspas. suggested Artabazus. At this, of course, there was a laugh.
4.13
But, asHystaspas asks for the daughter of Gobryas the banquet proceeded, Cyrus put this question to Gobryas: Tell me, Gobryas, said he, would you be more ready to consent now to give your daughter to one of my friends here than you were when first you joined us? Well, answered Gobryas, shall I also tell the truth? Aye, by Zeus, answered Cyrus; surely no question calls for a falsehood. Well, then, he replied, I should consent much more readily now, I assure you. And would you mind telling us why? asked Cyrus. Certainly not. Tell us, then.
