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observed a medium between the two. Nothing is so well calculated to show forth the virtues of men as their being contrasted with wicked men. Aristides was often placed in situations where his principles were tried but no account is given of his swerving from the path of duty. His people believed that a love of public good prompted all his actions. Miltiades was another Athenian of whom frequent mention is made in the history of the Persians and Grecians. He was a brave man and did much for his country's good but was not prompted as was Aristides for he appeared selfish at times. Such were the characters of those whom Darius had to contend with in Greece hence it is not strange that it was no easy matter to take possession of the country. The first city which he attacked was Marathon but was defeated by the Athenians though there were of them but a handful of men in comparison with the Persians. Miltiades was the able general on this occasion his army consisted of bold, intrepid men who loved liberty and dreaded slavery and tyranny more than death. Monuments were erected various parts of Greece to the memory of these men who had done so much for their country's welfare. Miltiades was not long treated kindly by the Athenians but was condemned to death being suspected of treachery. He was commuted afterwards and fined the sum of 50 talents not being able to pay was imprisoned which soon caused his death. There seemed to be much doubt of his guilt but the Athenians were desirous of disposing of him for fear his great fame and merit might enable him to gain such power over them as would cause them trouble forgetting his former services they punished him in this unjust manner. Aristides was banished from the country by the eloquence of Themistocles who then had all power in his hands. Aristides implored the gods at his departure that no accident should befall his country to cause it to regret him