That you, Athenians, may feel and understand both the folly of continually abandoning one thing after another, and the activity which forms part of Philip's habit and existence, which makes it impossible for him to rest content with his achievements.
Demosthenes explains his detailed account of Philip's actions, aiming to illustrate both Athenian complacency and Philip's insatiable ambition.
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To censure, I may be told, is easy for any man; to show what measures the case requires, is the part of a counselor.
If it be his principle, ever to do more than he has done, and yours, to apply yourselves vigorously to nothing, see what the end promises to be.
Could decrees of themselves compel you to perform your duty, or execute what they prescribe, neither would you with many decrees have accomplished little or nothing, nor would Philip have insulted you so long.
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