It happened that Cato, the great Roman philosopher and general, was at Rhodes at this time.
Cato was a man of stern, unbending virtue, and of great influence at that period in public affairs.

Ptolemy sent a messenger to inform Cato of his arrival, supposing, of course, that the Roman general would hasten, on hearing of the fact, to pay his respects to so great a personage as he, a king of Egypt--a Ptolemy--though suffering under a temporary reverse of fortune.

Cato directed the messenger to reply that, so far as he was aware, he had no particular business with Ptolemy.
"Say, however, to the king," he added, "that, if he has any business with me, he may call and see me, if he pleases." Ptolemy was obliged to suppress his resentment and submit.

He thought it very essential to the success of his plans that he should see Cato, and secure, if possible, his interest and co-operation; and he consequently made preparations for paying, instead of receiving, the visit, intending to go in the greatest royal state that he could command.

He accordingly appeared at Cato's lodgings on the following day, magnificently dressed, and accompanied by many attendants.