[40]
Though the
letter is addressed to you, it contains, as you hear, a distinct intimation
intended for his own allies: “I have done this against the wishes and
the interests of the Athenians. Therefore, if you Thebans and Thessalians are
wise, you will treat them as your enemies, and put your confidence in
me.” That is the meaning conveyed, though not in those words. By such
delusions he carried them off their feet so completely that they had no
foresight nor any inkling whatever of the sequel, but allowed him to take
control of the whole business; and that is the real cause of their present
distresses.
Demosthenes. Demosthenes with an English translation by C. A. Vince, M. A. and J. H. Vince, M.A. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1926.
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