Book 5
5.13
But enough of this; let us not thus idly accuse one another; but, if possible, let us examine what sort of wrong it is that has come from me. I am ready to make you a proposal, the fairest that can be made between friends: if it appear that I have done you harm, I confess that I am in the wrong; but if it turn out that I have done you no harm and intended none, will you then on your part confess that you have suffered no wrong at my hands?
5.14
Nay, I must, said he. And if it is demonstrated that I have done you good and have been eager to do as much for you as I could, pray should I not deserve your praise rather than your blame? That is only fair, said he.
5.15
Come, then, said Cyrus, and let us considerCyrus reviews his own conduct all that I have done, all my acts one by one; for so it will be most clearly seen what is good and what is bad.
5.16
And let us begin, if you think it far enough back, with my assuming this command. Now, you remember, when you learned that the enemy had gathered in great numbers and that they were starting against you and your country, you at once sent to the Persian state to ask for help and to me personally to ask me to try to come myself at the head of the forces, if any of the Persians should come. Did I not comply with your request, and did I not come to you leading for your service as many and as valiant men as I could? Yes said he; you certainly came.
5.17
Well then, he answered, tell me first whether in this you impute to me any wrong against you or do you not rather count it a benefit towards you? Obviously, Cyaxares replied, in that I see a benefit.
5.18
Good, then, answered Cyrus; and when the enemy came and we had to do battle with them, did you then see me ever shirking toil or avoiding danger? No, by Zeus, said he; I certainly did not.
