He thought then, if he chose your friendship, it must be on just principles; if he attached himself to them he should find auxiliaries of his ambition.
Demosthenes: “He thought then, if he chose your friendship, it must be on just principles; if he attached himself to them he should…”
Editor's note · Context
Demosthenes explains Philip's strategic choices, arguing that Philip avoids alliance with Athens because Athens demands justice, while others serve his ambition.
Share
More from Demosthenes
Choose which ye think expedient; and put hands to the work, while it is yet time.
For, had they undertaken the war at your instance, they might have been slippery allies, with minds but half resolved perhaps: but since they hate him on a quarrel of their own, their enmity is like to endure on account of their fears and…
And methinks, men of Athens, any man fairly estimating what the gods have done for us, notwithstanding many untoward circumstances, might with reason be grateful to them.
He has risen by conciliating and cajoling the weakness of every people in turn who knew him not.





