Apophthegmata Laconica

When someone praised an orator for his ability in making much of small matters, Agesilaus said that a shoemaker is not a good craftsman who puts big shoes on a small foot. [*](Cf.Moralia, 224 C, infra, and Cicero, De oratore, i. 54 (231).)

When someone said to him, You have agreed, and kept repeating the same thing, Agesilaus said, Yes, of course, if it is right; but if not, then I said so, but I did not agree. And when the other added, But surely kings ought to carry out whatsoe’er they confirm by the royal assent, [*](Adapted from Homer, Il. i. 527.) Agesilaus said, No more than those who approach kings ought to ask for what is right and say what is right, trying to hit upon the right occasion and a request fitting for kings to grant.