A source-book of ancient history - The Search For Mecca

Milligan,
p. gf.
i68 B.C.
In Egypt
husband and
wife often
called each
other sister
and brother;
sometimes
they were so
related.
The wife
complains
that her husband,
when
freed from
his vow to
the god, does
not return
to her.
thought
It is
that those
under a vow
at this temple
had something
of the
character of
monks.
3IO The Hellenistic Age
Serapeum at Memphis, I immediately gave thanks to the
gods that you were well; but that you did not return when
all those who were shut up with you arrived distresses me;
for having piloted myself and your child out of such a
crisis,
and having come to the last extremity because of
the high price of grain, and thinking that now at last on
your return I should obtain some relief, you have never
even thought of returning, nor spared a look for our helpless
state. While you were still at home, I went short
altogether, not to mention how long a time has passed
since, and such disasters; and you having sent nothing.
And now that Horus who brought the letter has told
about your having been released from your retreat, I am
utterly distressed. Nor is this all, but since your mother
is in great trouble about it, I entreat you for her sake and
for ours to return to the city, unless indeed something
most pressing occupies you.
that you may be in health.
(Addressed) To Hephaestion.
Pray take care of yourself
Good-bye.
A letter of
introduction.
Milligan,
p. 24 f.
Second century
B.C.
Polycrates to Philoxenus greeting.
If you are well and
things in general are going right, it will be as we desire.
We ourselves are in health. As regards those things we
wished, we have sent you Glaucias who is personally attached
to us to consult you.
Please therefore give him a
hearing, and instruct him concerning those things he has
come about. But above all take care of yourself that you
may be in health. Good-bye.
(Addressed) To Philoxenus.
STUDIES
I. Why had not Peloponnesus united under one government?
What advantages came to this region from the Achaean league?
What causes contributed to the rise of this league? What elements