An Athenian and a Theban were traveling together and passed the time in conversation, as travelers often do. After discussing various topics, they turned to heroes—a subject more fertile for debate than edifying. Each lavished praise on the heroes of his own city. The Theban asserted that Hercules was the greatest hero ever to live on earth and now held a foremost place among the gods. The Athenian, however, insisted that Theseus was far superior, for his fortune had been supremely blessed in every way, whereas Hercules had once been forced to serve as a servant.
The Athenian prevailed, being a very glib fellow like all Athenians. The Theban, no match in argument, finally cried out in disgust: "All right, have your way. I only hope that when our heroes are angry with us, Athens may suffer from the anger of Hercules, and Thebes only from that of Theseus."