indeed, it would be hard to find a case in war that has not its
parallel in the chase. [11] But to proceed: the young men set out with
provisions that are ampler, naturally, than the boys' fare, but
otherwise the same. During the chase itself they would not think of
breaking their fast, but if a halt is called, to beat up the game, or
for any hunter's reason, then they will make, as it were, a dinner of
their breakfast, and, hunting again on the morrow till dinner-time,
they will count the two days as one, because they have only eaten one
day's food. This they do in order that, if the like necessity should
arise in war, they may be found equal to it. As relish to their bread
these young men have whatever they may kill in the chase, or failing
that, nasturtium like the boys. And if one should ask how they can
enjoy the meal with nasturtium for their only condiment and water for
their only drink, let him bethink himself how sweet barley bread and
wheaten can taste to the hungry man and water to the thirsty. [12] As
for the young men who are left at home, they spend their time in
shooting and hurling the javelin, and practising all they learnt as
boys, in one long trial of skill. Beside this, public games are open
to them and prizes are offered; and the tribe which can claim the
greatest number of lads distinguished for skill and courage and
faithfulness is given the meed of praise from all the citizens, who
honour, not only their present governor, but the teacher who trained
them when they were boys. Moreover, these young men are also employed
by the magistrates if garrison work needs to be done or if malefactors
are to be tracked or robbers run down, or indeed on any errand which
calls for strength of limb and fleetness of foot. Such is the life of
the youth. But when the ten years are accomplished they are classed as
grown men. [13] And from this time forth for five-and-twenty years
they live as follows.