TALES OF THE GREEKS
things like that. Diogenes was lying on the ground, enjoying the sunshine.
"Sir," said King Alexander, "I have heard of you as a sage, and have often wished to see you. In what way can I serve you?"
"Only stand a little out of my sunshine," said the philosopher.
"Brute!" said one courtier.
"Wretched rude fellow!" exclaimed another.
Alexander's thoughts were different. He admired the brave man who would not bend the knee to kings.
"If I were not Alexander," he remarked, "I should like to be Diogenes."
Before he left his native land the young king gave away almost all his lands and goods to various friends. Some one said to him:
"You are very free in giving. What have you left for yourself?"
"Hope," said Alexander.
With hope in his heart, Alexander crossed the narrow sea between Europe and Asia, taking with him horses, chariots, and about thirty-five thousand men.
A rapid stream barred the road. On the rocky bank on the opposite side the Persians crowded in thick masses, armed with bow and spear. Through the splash of the river Alexander made his way, and his friends kept close to their leader. On his
118
