Page:Thucydides, translated into English Vol 2.djvu/24

 l6 CLEON THE POPULAR LEADER [iv 20 ' Now, if ever, is the time of reconciliation for us both, before either has suffered any irremedi- RecoHcilialioH is si ill, , ,. 1 • 1 l • j possible: for nothing able Calamity, which must cause, besides irreparable has hap- the ordinary antagonism of contending pened. Who began the states, a personal and inveterate hatred, war is a disfntted point,, -.i , ■ r t 1 but you ^vill have the ^"d Will deprive you of the advantages credit of ending it. Once which we now offer. While the con- united, we are the lords test is Still undecided, while you may of Hellas. . ., - . , , . acquire reputation and our friendship, and while our disaster can be repaired on tolerable terms, and disgrace averted, let us be reconciled, and choosing peace instead of war ourselves, let us give relief and rest to all the Hellenes. The chief credit of the peace will be yours. Whether we or you drove them into war is un- certain ; but to give them peace lies with you, and to you they will be grateful. If you decide for peace, you may assure to yourselves the lasting friendship of the Lacedae- monians freely offered by them, you on your part em- ploying no force but kindness only. Consider the great advantages which such a friendship will yield. If you and we are at one, you may be certain that the rest of Hellas, which is less powerful than we, will pay to both of us the greatest deference.' 21 Thus spoke the Lacedaemonians, thinking that the The Athenians at the Athenians, who had formerly been instigation of Clean in- desirous of making terms with them, sist on impossible terms. ^^^ ^1^6. Only been prevented by their refusal 8^, would now, when peace was offered to them, joyfully agree and would restore their men. But the Athenians reflected that, since they had the Lacedae- monians shut up in the island, it was at any time in their power to make peace, and they wanted more. These feelings were chiefly encouraged by Cleon the son of Cleaenetus, a popular leader of the day who had the greatest influence over the multitude ''. He persuaded ■ Cp. ii. 59. '' Cp. iii. 36 fin.