Examples of Three Classes of Statesmen
In the last class were Antinous, Theodotus, and Cephalus,
Antinous, Theodotus, and Cephalus of the Molossi are instances of the third class. |
who induced the Molossians to join Perseus.
These men, when the results of the campaign
went completely against them, and they found
themselves in imminent danger of the worst
consequences, put a bold face upon it and met
an honourable death in the field. These men deserve our
commendation for their self-respect, in refusing to allow themselves to lapse into a position unworthy of their previous life.
Again, in Achaia and Thessaly and Perrhaebia several
Several instances of the first class in Achaia Phiotis, Thessaly, and Perrhaebia. |
persons incurred blame by remaining neutral,
on the ground that they were watching their
opportunity, and were in heart on the side of
Perseus; and yet they never let a word to that
effect get abroad, nor were ever detected in
sending letter or message to Perseus on any subject whatever,
but conducted themselves with unexceptionable discretion.
Such men as these therefore very properly determined to face
judicial inquiry and stand their judgment, and to make every
effort to save themselves. For it is quite as great a sign of
cowardice to abandon life voluntarily when a man is conscious
of no crime, from fear of the threats of political opponents or
of the power of the conquerors, as it is to cling to life to the
loss of honour.
Again, in Rhodes and Cos, and several other cities, there
Instances of the second class in Rhodes, Cos, and other places. |
were men who favoured the cause of Perseus,
and who were bold enough to speak in behalf
of the Macedonians in their own cities, and to
inveigh against the Romans, and to actually
advise active steps in alliance with Perseus, but who were not
able to induce their states to transfer themselves to alliance
with the king. The most conspicuous of such men were in
Cos the two brothers Hippias and Diomedon, and in Rhodes
Deinon and Polyaratus.