17
But if I leave off speaking at this point, I know that I shall appear to put Athens at a disadvantage, if, that is to say, the Thebans are to retain possession of Thespiae and PlataeaSee Isoc. 6.27, note. and the other citiesOrchomenus (Dio. Sic. 15.79), Oropus (Dio. Sic. 15.76). which they have seized contrary to their oaths,When they agreed to the Peace of Antalcidas. while we are to retire, under no compulsion to do so, from the territory which we now hold. But if you will only listen to me and give me your attention to the end, I believe that you will all impute extreme folly and madness to those who think that injustice is advantageous and who would hold in subjection by force the cities of others, failing to reckon with the disasters which result from such a policy.
18
On this point indeed I shall attempt to instruct you throughout my entire speech. But first let us discuss the question of peace and consider what we should desire for ourselves at the present juncture. For if we define this clearly and intelligently, we shall take better counsel in the light of this principle regarding our other interestsTheir foreign policy in general. as well.