A Strange Interview

We are told that Agesilaus once agreed to meet the Persian general Pharnabazus for a conference. Such meetings often took place between generals of different armies. The meeting was set for a certain day and hour under a large tree, and it was agreed that both generals would come only with their personal attendants.

Agesilaus, plainly dressed as usual, arrived first at the meeting place. He sat down on the grass under the tree and began to eat his usual midday meal of bread and onions. A few moments later, the Persian general arrived in rich attire, accompanied by servants carrying a fan and parasol, and by others bringing carpets for him to sit on, cool drinks to refresh him, and delicate dishes to tempt his appetite.

At first, Pharnabazus thought a tramp was camping under the tree. But when he discovered that this plain little man was actually Agesilaus, the King of Sparta and winner of many battles, he was ashamed of his pomp. He sent away his attendants and sat down on the ground beside the king.

They began an important conversation, and Pharnabazus was filled with admiration when he heard the short but noble answers Agesilaus gave to all his questions. He was so impressed by the Spartan king that he shook hands with him when the interview ended.

Agesilaus was equally pleased with Pharnabazus and told him that he would be proud to call him a friend. He invited him to leave his master and come live in Greece, where all noble men were free. Pharnabazus did not accept the invitation but renewed the war. Agesilaus again won several important victories.

When the Persian king heard that all his soldiers could not defeat the Spartan king, he decided to try bribery. He sent a messenger to Athens to promise that city and its allies a large sum of money if they would revolt against Sparta and force Agesilaus to return home.