Pagina 62 van 310

Therefore, he who considers the actions and the genius of this

man will see nothing, or little, which can be attributed to

fortune, inasmuch as he attained pre-eminence, as is shown above,

not by the favour of any one, but step by step in the military

profession, which steps were gained with a thousand troubles and

perils, and were afterwards boldly held by him with many

hazardous dangers. Yet it cannot be called talent to slay

fellow-citizens, to deceive friends, to be without faith, without

mercy, without religion; such methods may gain empire, but not

glory. Still, if the courage of Agathocles in entering into and

extricating himself from dangers be considered, together with his

greatness of mind in enduring and overcoming hardships, it cannot

be seen why he should be esteemed less than the most notable

captain. Nevertheless, his barbarous cruelty and inhumanity with

infinite wickedness do not permit him to be celebrated among the

most excellent men.