is forced to handle the oar, he and his domestics alike, and to learn
the terms familiar in seamanship. Hence a stock of skilful mariners is
produced, bred upon a wide experience of voyaging and practice. They
have learnt their business, some in piloting a small craft, others a
merchant vessel, whilst others have been drafted off from these for
service on a ship-of-war. So that the majority of them are able to row
the moment they set foot on board a vessel, having been in a state of
preliminary practice all their lives.

[50] See "Mem." II. viii. 1.

[51] See "Hell." VII. i. 4.



II

As to the heavy infantry, an arm the deficiency of which at Athens is
well recognised, this is how the matter stands. They recognise the
fact that, in reference to the hostile power, they are themselves
inferior, and must be, even if their heavy infantry were more
numerous.[1] But relatively to the allies, who bring in the tribute,
their strength even on land is enormous. And they are persuaded that
their heavy infantry is sufficient for all purposes, provided they
retain this superiority.[2] Apart from all else, to a certain extent
fortune must be held responsible for the actual condition. The
subjects of a power which is dominant by land have it open to them to
form contingents from several small states and to muster in force for
battle. But with the subjects of a naval power it is different. As far
as they are groups of islanders it is impossible for their states to