But if no man holds such an opinion, if on the contrary we all foresee, that, the more we permit Philip to conquer, the more fierce and formidable an enemy we shall find him, what subterfuge remains? what excuse for delay?
Demosthenes challenges the Athenians to confront the escalating threat of Philip, arguing there is no excuse for further delay if they recognize his growing power.
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I request you, if I speak my mind, to be patient, and consider only, whether I speak the truth, and with a view to future amendment.
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.
Impossible is it,--impossible, Athenians,--to acquire a solid power by injustice and perjury and falsehood.
I could have wished, knowing the advantage of good counsel to you, I were equally certain of its advantage to the counselor: so should I have spoken with more satisfaction.
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