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

The chief
gathers about
him a number
of followers,
called
companions,
who fight
under his
leadership.
Ancient
World, 525.
The companions
vie
with one
another in
valor.
Tac. Germ.
14.
548 The Northern Barbarians
the rank of a chief; but these take their places among the
other tougher warriors whom time has tried,
blush to be seen in the ranks.
and do not
Within the train itself too
there are degrees of honor, determined at the leader's
discretion. And great rivalry prevails—the companions
each striving to be first with their chief, the chiefs to have
the largest and most spirited companionship. Real distinction
and strength belong to the chief who has around
him always a band of chosen warriors, to be a glory in
peace and a protection in war. To have a companionship
distinguished for its size and bravery brings fame and
glory not only among your own people, but among neighboring
tribes as well.
Such trains are courted by legates,
and honored with gifts, and often decide the fortune of a
battle by the mere rumor of their presence.
When the fighting begins, it is shameful for a chief to be
outdone in bravery, and equally shameful for the companions
not to match the bravery of their chief; to survive
one's chief and to return from battle is a foul disgrace
which lasts as long as life. To defend him, to support
him, to turn one's brave deeds to his glory, this is their
chief oath of allegiance. The chiefs fight for victory, the
companions for their chief.
Often youths of noble family,
if the community in which they were born is suffering the
torpor of prolonged peace, go and seek out some tribe
which happens to be at war. They hate peace; and fame
too comes more easily in times of danger. Nor can you
support a large companionship save by war and violence;
for they exact from their chief's liberality their charter
and their murderous invincible spear.
Feasts, too, rough
though plentiful, are given for pay. The means of this
Hberality is won by war and plunder. It would be far
harder to persuade them to plow the fields
and wait for