Evidence of fear or guilt

After Alexander the Great had conquered the Persians he became suddenly very ill.

One of his generals sent him a letter saying that his attending physician had resolved to poison him. He read the letter without the slightest sign of emotion, and put it under his pillow.

When the physician came and prepared medicine, Alexander said he would not take it just then, but told him to put it where he could reach it, and at the same time gave him the letter from his general.

Alexander raised himself on his elbow, and watched the physician's face with the most searching scrutiny, looking into his very soul; but he did not see in it the slightest evidence of fear or guilt.

He immediately reached for the medicine bottle, and, without a word, drank its contents.

The amazed physician asked him how he could do that after receiving such a letter.

Alexander replied, "Because you are an honest man."