Page:The Anabasis of Alexander.djvu/390

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368
The Anabasis of Alexander.

among the Mallians, where he braved the greatest dangers and helped to save Alexander's life. Besides

this, he did not refuse to accommodate himself to the Asiatic mode of living; and as soon as he was appointed to the position of viceroy of Persis, he openly assumed the native garb, being the only man among the Macedonians who adopted the Median dress in preference to the Grecian.[1] He also learnt to speak the Persian language correctly, and comported himself in all other respects like a Persian. For this conduct he was not only commended by Alexander, but the Persians also were highly delighted with him, for preferring their national customs to those of his own forefathers.


  1. Purpura et nitor corporis, ornatusque Persicus multo auro multisque gemmis. — Cicero (de Senectute, 17).