A Persian generally fights better if he knows that, beside his most precious treasures, he has a beautiful woman in his tent to defend." "Spare me this one command, my brother.

I conjure thee, by the soul of our father, not to inflict on me a wife of whom I know nothing, and never wish to know.

Give Roxana to Zopyrus, who is so fond of women, or to Darius or Bessus, who are related to her father Hydarnes.

I cannot love her, and should be miserable..." Cambyses interrupted him with a laugh, exclaiming: "Did you learn these notions in Egypt, where it is the custom to be contented with one wife?
In truth, I have long repented having sent a boy like you abroad.

I am not accustomed to bear contradiction, and shall listen to no excuses after the war.