21
PRIDE.
Croesus, king of Lydia, having expressed an extraordinary inclination to see Solon, that philosopher repaired to Sardis to pay him a visit. The first time he was presented, the king received him seated on his throne, and dressed on purpose in his most sumptuous robes; but Solon appeared not the least astonished at the sight of such a glare of magnificence.
"My friend, said Croesus to him, Fame has every where reported thy wisdom. I know you have seen many countries; but have you ever seen a person dressed so magnificently as I am?" "Yes, replied Solon, the pheasants and peacocks are dressed more magnificently, because their brilliant apparel is the gift of nature, without their taking any thought or pains to adorn themselves.”
Such an unexpected answer very much surprized Croesus, who ordered his officers to open all his treasures, and shew them to Solon, as also his rich furniture, and whatever was magnificent in his palace. He then sent for him a second time, and asked him if he had ever seen a man, more happy than he was. "Yes, replied Solon, and that man was Tellus, a citizen of Athens, who lived with an unblemished character in a well regulated republic. He left two children much respected, with a moderate fortune for their subsistence, & at last had the happiness to die sword in hand, after having obtained a victory for his country. The Athenians have erected a monument to his memory on the spot where he fell, and have otherwise paid him great honours."
