1Whenever they are not entering upon wars, they pass not much of their time in hunting, more in idleness, given over to sleep and food: all the bravest and most warlike do nothing, the care of house, hearth and fields being handed over to the women and the old men and all the weakest of the household, while they themselves lie torpid, by a strange contradiction of nature, since the same men so love inactivity and hate peace. 2It is the custom for the states, voluntarily and man by man, to contribute to the chiefs something of their cattle or crops, which, accepted as a mark of honour, also relieves their needs.
3They especially delight in gifts from neighbouring peoples, which are sent not only by individuals but also publicly, choice horses, splendid arms, horse trappings and necklaces; 3we have now taught them to accept money as well.