Many beautiful women who had been in the harems of the Persian leaders were either sold or given to those who had displayed exceptional bravery. Of these Zopyrus was offered first choice, but to Pausanias’ surprise he politely declined. Stepping over to the pile where were stacked the swords, breastplates, shields, helmets and smaller articles of pillage, Zopyrus drew forth the sword of Masistius and made the statement that this would be a most acceptable portion of the spoils to him. The Greeks wondered at his choice, but no one made so bold as to question him concerning it.
As Zopyrus was about to leave the market-place someone placed a detaining hand upon his shoulder. Turning, the former looked into the face of a young man of about his own height and physique but a few years his senior, who smilingly offered his hand.
“I wish to commend you for your bravery in the recent battle and to welcome you back to Athens, as I understand you have not been there for some years past. I am Cimon, and this,” he indicated a slender man by his side, “is Polygnotus, an artist of no mean reputation. We are both residing in Athens and shall be glad to have you meet others of our friends in the city.”
Zopyrus was greatly pleased. From the handsome countenance of Cimon he turned to look at the artist, Polygnotus. Although in Greek military dress, Polygnotus did not appear a soldier. His features were thin, almost delicate, his nose aquiline and his mouth super-sensitive. His hair of light brown, very smooth and straight, was dressed on the prevailing style with the braids crossed at the back of the head and fastened in front. His eyes were searching and possessed a mild lustre indicative of a fine degree of intellectuality and a broad sympathetic understanding of his fellow men. Zopyrus recognized in him at once a kindred mind.
“As you no doubt know,” said the artist, “our homes are in ashes but we are returning to rebuild them, determined to lose no time in mourning our losses, but rejoicing that the enemy is forever expelled.”
Cimon had turned away and with another soldier sought the platform where beautiful women, many of them Greeks, stood exposed to the rude gaze of the soldiery. Zopyrus’ eyes followed the retreating form of Cimon and a question arose to his lips which was anticipated by the quiet Polygnotus who said: “You wonder at Cimon’s interest in the women and I can assure you his motives are pure. He is searching for the girl he loves who was taken captive by one of the Persian leaders and confined in his harem.”
“What was her name?” asked Zopyrus tensely.
“Ladice,” was the anticipated, but at the same time astounding reply.
“The maiden has been rescued from the harem of Artabazus,” said Zopyrus quietly.
“Are you absolutely certain?” cried the artist incredulously.