Page:Plutarch - Moralia, translator Holland, 1911.djvu/259

Rh many; but he nourished and carefully cherished the son of his brother departed, until he was come to full age, and then himself in his lifetime with his own hands set the imperial diadem and royal crown upon his head, and proclaimed him king. But Cambyses contrariwise, frighted upon a vain dream which he had, that his brother was come to usurp the kingdom of Asia, without expecting any proof or presumption thereof, put him to death for it; by occasion whereof, the succession in the empire went out of the race of Cyrus upon his decease, and was devolved upon the line of Darius, who reigned after him; a prince who knew how to communicate the government of his affairs and his regal authority, not only with his brethren, but also with his friends.

Moreover, this one point more is to be remembered and observed diligently in all variances and debates that are risen between brethren: namely, then especially, and more than at any time else, to converse and keep company with their friends; and on the other side to avoid their enemies and evil-willers, and not to be willing so much as to vouchsafe them any speech or entertainment. Following herein the fashion of the Candiots, who being oftentimes fallen out and in civil dissension among themselves, yea and warring hot one with another, no sooner hear news of foreign enemies coming against them, but they rank themselves, banding jointly together against them; and this combination is that which thereupon is called syncretesmos. For some there be that (like as water runneth always to the lower ground, and to places that chink or cleave asunder) are ready to side with those brethren or friends that be fallen out, and by their suggestions buzzed into their ears, ruinate and overthrow all acquaintance, kindred and amity, hating indeed both parties, but seeming to bear rather upon the weaker side, and to settle upon him who of imbecility soon yieldeth and giveth place. And verily those that be simple and harmless friends, such as commonly young folk are, apply themselves commonly to him that aff ecteth a brother, helping and increasing that love what he may; but the most malicious enemies are they who espying when one brother is angry or fallen out with another, seem to be angry and offended together with him for company; and these do most hurt of all others. Like as the hen therefore in Æsop answered unto the cat, making semblance as though he heard her say she was sick, and therefore in kindness and love asking how she did? I am well enough (quoth she), I thank you, so that you were farther off; even so,