Page:Thucydides, translated into English Vol 2.djvu/35

 32-34] THE LACEDAEMONIANS AT A DISADVANTAGE 27 would be assailed by those behind ; and if those on one flank, by those posted on the other; and whichever way they moved, the light-armed troops of the enemy were sure to be in their rear. These were their most embar- rassing opponents, because they were armed with bows and javcHns and sHngs and stones, which could be used with effect at a distance. Even to approach them was impossible, for they conquered in their very flight, and when an enemy retreated, pressed close at his heels. Such was the plan of the descent which Demosthenes had in his mind, and which he now carried into execution. The main body of the Lacedaemonians on the island 33 .^ under Epitadas, when they saw the j,^^ Lacedaemonian / ^ first garrison cut to pieces and an army hoputcs are unable '" ^ /-e approaching them, drew up in battle '^P' «'f' ^^ S^'*- ^ ^ ' ^, ., . , ,■ armed Athentan troops. /^. AH array. The Athenian hophtes were C^^^f^" right in front, and the Lacedaemonians advanced against them, wanting to come to close quarters ; but having light- armed adversaries both on their flank and rear, they could not get at them or profit by their own military skill, for they were impeded by a shower of missiles from both sides. Meanwhile the Athenians instead of going to meet them remained in position, while the light-armed again and again ran up and attacked the Lacedaemonians, who drove them back where they pressed closest. But though com- pelled to retreat they still continued fighting, being lightly equipped and easily getting the start of their enemies. The ground was difficult and rough, the island having been uninhabited; and the Lacedaemonians, who were incum- bered by their arms, could not pursue them in such a place. For some little time these skirmishes continued. Rut 34 soon the Lacedaemonians became too They are sorely dis- weary to rush out upon their assailants, tiessed. who began to be sensible that their resistance grew feebler. The sight of their own number, which was many times that of the enemy, encouraged them more than any- thing ; they soon found that their losses were trifling I