134
The second way is to be willing to treat our allies just as we would our friends and not to grant them independence in words, while in fact giving them over to our generals to do with as they please,Aimed at Chares. Diodorus (xv. 95) says of him: τοὺς συμμάχους ἀδικῶν διετέλει. Cf. Aristot. Rh. 3.17: Ἰσοκράτης κατηγορεῖ Χάρητος ἐν τῷ συμμαχικῷ. and not to exercise our leadership as masters but as helpers,Cf. Isoc. 4.80. since we have learned the lesson that while we are stronger than any single state we are weaker than all Hellas.
135
And the third way is to consider that nothing is more important, save only to show reverence to the gods, than to have a good name among the Hellenes. For upon those who are so regarded they willingly confer both sovereign power and leadership.
136
If, then, you will abide by the advice which I have given you, and if, besides, you will prove yourselves warlike by training and preparing for war but peaceful by doing nothing contrary to justice,Repeated from Isoc. 2.24. you will render not only this city but all the Hellenes happy and prosperous.
137
For no other of the states will dare to oppress them; on the contrary, they will hold back and studiously avoid aggression when they see the power of Athens on the alert and ready to go to the aid of the oppressed. But no matter what course the rest may take, our own position will be honorable and advantageous;
138
for if the foremost states resolve to abstain from acts of oppression, we shall have the credit for this blessing; but if, on the other hand, they attempt to oppress others, then all who fear them and suffer evil at their hands will come to us for refuge, with many prayers and supplications, offering us not only the hegemony but their own support.
