Meaning: The quote "They must therefore not spoil Alexander's undertaking, especially when they were almost at the close of their toils, and were, moreover, no longer in any difficulty about provisions on their coasting cruise." is attributed to the historian Arrian. This quote reflects a pivotal moment in Alexander the Great's conquests and the morale of his troops. Arrian, a historian and philosopher, chronicled Alexander's campaigns in his work "Anabasis Alexandri" (The Campaigns of Alexander), providing valuable insights into the military tactics, leadership, and the mindset of the soldiers during this remarkable period in history.

The quote captures the sense of urgency and perseverance that characterized Alexander's campaign. The phrase "almost at the close of their toils" suggests that the soldiers were nearing the culmination of their arduous journey, likely referring to the later stages of their conquests in the Persian Empire. Despite the challenges and hardships they had faced, they were on the verge of achieving their ultimate goal. This reflects the resilience and determination of Alexander's army in the face of formidable obstacles.

The mention of "no longer in any difficulty about provisions on their coasting cruise" highlights the significance of securing essential resources for the army. Throughout their conquests, Alexander and his troops encountered numerous logistical challenges, including ensuring a steady supply of food and provisions. The quote indicates that at this stage of their campaign, they had overcome these difficulties, indicating a more favorable and stable situation for the troops.

Arrian's choice of words conveys a sense of caution and responsibility. The phrase "They must therefore not spoil Alexander's undertaking" underscores the importance of preserving and protecting the progress they had made. It serves as a reminder to the soldiers that they must not jeopardize their achievements through complacency or recklessness. This reflects the strategic mindset and leadership of Alexander, who sought to maintain the momentum and discipline of his forces as they approached the culmination of their endeavors.

In a broader context, this quote encapsulates the themes of determination, perseverance, and strategic foresight that are prevalent in the historical accounts of Alexander the Great's conquests. It offers a glimpse into the mindset of the ancient soldiers and the challenges they faced, shedding light on the complexities of military campaigns and the psychological resilience required to sustain long and demanding expeditions.

Arrian's work provides valuable historical insights into the world of ancient warfare and the leadership of one of history's most renowned conquerors. His meticulous documentation of Alexander's campaigns offers a window into the military strategies, logistical considerations, and the human experiences of the soldiers who participated in these transformative events.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to Arrian serves as a poignant reflection of the challenges, triumphs, and responsibilities inherent in Alexander the Great's conquests. It encapsulates the spirit of perseverance, the strategic imperatives of military leadership, and the enduring legacy of one of history's most remarkable military campaigns. Arrian's historical accounts continue to provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for understanding the ancient world and the enduring lessons of leadership and determination.