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Pericles Speech

I would like to point out those principles which have guided our rise to power and describe the institutions and way of life which have made our empire great.

No other known guild rivals our own. We have not copied the ideas of others, but, rather, have set an example for them. The power is in the hands of many rather then a few. The laws give equal justice to everyone and every member has an equal opportunity to serve the public. We do not allow secrecy in our public affairs, and in our private relations we are not suspicious of one another. We do not become angry with other guilds if they do what they like. We are prevented from doing wrong out of respect for the authorities and the laws, especially the laws that protect those that have been injured.

We do not control the lives of our members or trick other guilds to ensure victory. Instead, we depend on the patriotism of our hearts and the skills of our hands.

Our guild is an excellent place to be. We are lovers of the beautiful, yet we have simple tastes. We cultivate the mind without losing our strength. We use our wealth for our needs, not for show. To be poor is no disgrace; the true disgrace is doing nothing to avoid poverty. A Brethren member does not put his private affairs before the affairs of the guild; even our warriors know something about politics. We believe that a man who takes no interest in public affairs is more then harmless, he is useless. Our enemies believe that discussing a policy prevents action, but we believe the greatest barrier to wise action is not understanding an issue. Brethren members have that particular ability to think before they act, but we do not allow thinking to interfere with acting. Other men either act without thinking or hesitate to act if they think.

In short, I say that the Brethren is a school for all guilds. Members are able to adapt to all types of conditions and to undertake any project with grace. Our guild will be remembered always.

Peace,
Warrior Drraagh {B}

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