[ A letter to one of the commanders of his army. ]
If our enemies agree to obey us, it
will be as I desire, but if they adamantly insist upon dissension and revolt, then be
ready to fight against them with the help of your faithful followers. Trust those who have
proved themselves faithful. Do not trust and do not count upon the help of those who have
proved faithless and disloyal. Remember that the absence of those who do not join us
willingly and sincerely is better than their presence in our ranks, and their inactivity
and lethargy is better than their participation in our activities.