“I consent to the exchange which you propose. But as I would not be as Diomed, who gave brass in exchange for gold, I send you the four prisoners whom you mention, in exchange for Charidemus the Macedonian. Farewell.”
The letter had been written by a secretary, but it had the bold autograph of Alexander, signed across it.
“My thanks to the king your master, who is as generous as he is brave,” was the message which Memnon gave to the officer in charge. The four exchanged prisoners now made their way up the side of the ship, were courteously received by Memnon, and bidden to report themselves to the captain.
“Will your lordship please to sign this receipt for the prisoners?” said the Macedonian officer.
This was duly done.
“Will you drink a cup of wine?” asked Memnon.
The officer thanked him for his politeness, but declined. He was under orders to return without delay.
“Then,” said Memnon, “your countryman shall accompany you directly. You will give him a few moments to make his adieus.”
The Macedonian bowed assent, and the two descended into the cabin. Barsiné was sitting busy with her needle by the side of a couch on which Clearista lay fast asleep.
“Our young friend leaves us immediately,” said Memnon to his wife; “I proposed an exchange, as you know, and it has been accepted. The boat is waiting to take him ashore. He is coming to say farewell.”