HOW TO GET STRONG
And he did. For out of nine starters, one was a King—Nicolaus—who gave him a hot fight all over the track, but he won. "In sports and gymnastics he easily excelled all."
"He was fair in complexion and ruddy; of sweet odor, and agreeable in person; above the average height, though not tall, his presence was commanding; his beauty kingly."
"Alexander was active, and able to endure cold, hunger, and thirst; trial and fatigue beyond even the strongest." "His strength and courage were altogether exceptional."
Quintus Curtius says that he saved his father's life in a mutiny among the Triballi, when a mere lad, by his sole personal gallantry. He was invincible to those things which terrify others. His bravery did not only excel that of other kings; but even that of those who have no other virtue. He was never known to change countenance at wounds.—Dodge's Alexander, III., pp. 182–651.
"The Mallian arrow which had penetrated his lung was cut out without a motion on his part.
"He was exceedingly swift of foot; but when young, would not enter the Olympic games, because he had not kings' sons to compete with. An athlete himself, he disliked professional athletes,—saying that they ought to place their strength at the service of the country. He was always glad to incur hardship and danger in hunting; and is related to have slain a lion, single-handed, when in Bœotia. He kept his body in good training. On the march he was habituated to shoot from his horse or chariot for practice; and to mount and dismount when at full speed. He frequently marched on foot with his troops, rather than make use of horse or
256
