4
When the tyrant saw them, grouped about their mother as if in a chorus, he was pleased with them. And struck by their appearance and nobility, he smiled at them, and summoned them nearer and said,
5
"Young men, I admire each and every one of you in a kindly manner, and greatly respect the beauty and the number of such brothers. Not only do I advise you not to display the same madness as that of the old man who has just been tortured, but I also exhort you to yield to me and enjoy my friendship.
6
Just as I am able to punish those who disobey my orders, so I can be a benefactor to those who obey me.
7
Trust me, then, and you will have positions of authority in my government if you will renounce the ancestral tradition of your national life.
8
And enjoy your youth by adopting the Greek way of life and by changing your manner of living.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.