9–10
HERMES
Look over there towards the great acropolis with the triple wall. That is Sardis, and now you see Croesus himself sitting on a golden throne, talking with Solon of Athens. Would you like to listen to what they are saying?The conversation that follows is based on Herodotus 1.29-33.
CROESUS
My friend from Athens, as you have seen my riches, my treasuries, all the bullion that I have and the rest of my splendor, tell me whom do you consider the most fortunate man in the world?
CHARON
What will Solon say to that?
HERMES
Never fear; nothing ignoble, Charon.
SOLON
Fortunate men are few, Croesus, but I consider that of all the men I know, the most fortunate are Cleobis and Biton, the sons of the priestess at Argos, who died together the other day when they had harnessed themselves and drawn their mother to the temple on the wagon.In Herodotus Tellus gets the first place.
CROESUS
Very well, let them have the first rank in good fortune. But who would be the second?:
5
SOLON
Tellus of Athens, who lived happily and died for his country.
CROESUS
But what about me, knave? Don’t you think I am fortunate?
SOLON
I do not know, Croesus, and shall not until you come to the close of your life. Death is a sure test in such matters, that and a fortunate life right up to the end.
CHARON
Thank you kindly, Solon, for not forgetting us,Himself and Pluto. but demanding the decision of such matters to be made right at the ferry.
