from the activity of the king and the statesman.

That seems to be the case, at least.

Come then, let us step up and look from close at hand at those who are left, that so we may know them more surely.

Yes, that is what we should do.

We shall find, then, that the greatest servants, when seen from near at hand, are in conduct and condition the opposite of that which we suspected.

Who are they?

The bought servants, acquired by purchase, whom we can without question call slaves.