Aesop, the Greek writer of fables, was sitting by the roadside one day when a traveler asked him what sort of people lived in Athens. Aesop replied, “Tell me where you come from and what sort of people live there, and I’ll tell you what sort of people you’ll find in Athens.” 16 , the man answered, “I come from Argos, and there the people are all friendly, generous, and warm-hearted. I love them.” 17 this, Aesop answered, “I’m happy to tell you, my dear friend, that you’ll find the people of Athens much the same.”
A few hours later, 18 traveler came down the road. He too stopped and asked Aesop the same question. 19 , Aesop made the same request. But frowning, the man answered, “I’m from Argos and there the people are unfriendly, 20 , and vicious. They’re thieves and murderers, all of them.” “Well, I’m afraid you’ll find the people of Athens much the same,” replied Aesop.
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