Idea Ripper // ArchiveCards: 1555 [Live] | Updated: 2026-10-14
Card #c1140IR // #c1140Synthesis

"They are well aware of the terms Cyaxares has offered for their help: but whatever they get over and above the covenanted amount they will look upon as a free gift, and for that they will, in all likelihood, feel most gratitude to the giver."

— In our words · Source: Cyropaedia (Xenophon)

[Use when]

You're deciding whether a bonus should be built into the contract or given on top.

[Why it matters]

Cyrus reasons that promised pay is owed, so the thanks go to whoever promised it. Only what comes above the agreed amount reads as a gift from him.

More from Cyropaedia

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