Apophthegmata Laconica

When the ambassadors of the Samians spoke at great length, the Spartans said to them, We hae forgot the first part, and the later part we did na ken because we hae forgot the first.[*](Cf.Moralia, 216 A (15) supra. )

When a speaker extended his remarks to a great length, and then asked for answers to report to his citizens, they said, Report that you found it hard to stop speaking and we to listen. [*](Cf.Moralia, 216 A (15), supra. )

In answer to the Thebans who were disputing with them over some matters, they said, You should have less pride or more power. [*](Cf.Moralia, 218 E (8), supra. )

A Spartan, being asked why he wore his beard so very long, said, So that I may see my grey hairs and do nothing unworthy of them.

Another, in answer to the inquiry, Why do you use short swords? said, So that we may get close to the enemy.

When someone was praising the Argive warriors, a Spartan said, Yes, at Troy! [*](A thousand years before.)