When some were saying that if Cæsar should march against the city they could not see what forces there were to resist him, Pompey replied with a smile, bidding them be in no concern, “for whenever I stamp my foot in any part of Italy there will rise up forces enough in an instant, both horse and foot.”
Whenever Alexander heard Philip had taken any town of importance, or won any signal victory, instead of rejoicing at it altogether, he would tell his companions that his father would anticipate everything, and leave him and them no opportunities of performing great and illustrious actions.1
Using the proverb frequently in their mouths who enter upon dangerous and bold attempts, “The die is cast,” he took the river.4
Life of Cæsar.
Note 1. While Alexander was a boy, Philip had great success in his affairs, at which he did not rejoice, but told the children that were brought up with him, “My father will leave me nothing to do.”—Apophthegms of Kings and Great Commanders. (Alexander.) [back]
Note 2. Cæsar’s wife ought to be free from suspicion.—Roman Apophthegms. (Cæsar.) [back]
Note 3. I had rather be the first in this town than second in Rome.—Ibid. [back]
Note 4. He passed the river Rubicon, saying, “Let every die be thrown.”—Ibid. [back]
