The result has been, that in the assembly you give yourselves airs and are flattered at hearing nothing but compliments, in your measures and proceedings you are brought to the utmost peril.
Demosthenes criticizes the Athenian assembly for indulging in flattery, which has led them to a perilous state in their national affairs.
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As, therefore, by such means he rose, when every people imagined he would advance their interest, so ought he by the same means to be pulled down again, when the selfish aim of his whole policy is exposed.
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.
The present crisis, O Athenians, requires, if any ever did, much thought and counsel.
Our numerous losses in war may justly be charged to our own negligence; but that they happened not long ago, and that an alliance, to counterbalance them, is open to our acceptance, I must regard as manifestations of divine favor.
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