performed in relation to the state. The scene, in fact, but little
lends itself to the intrusion of violence or drunken riot; ugly speech
and ugly deeds alike are out of place. Amongst other good results
obtained through this out-door system of meals may be mentioned these:
There is the necessity of walking home when the meal is over, and a
consequent anxiety not to be caught tripping under the influence of
wine, since they all know of course that the supper-table must be
presently abandoned,[10] and that they must move as freely in the dark
as in the day, even the help of a torch[11] to guide the steps being
forbidden to all on active service.

[7] Cf. Plat. "Phaedr." 240 C; {elix eklika terpei}, "Equals delight
in equals."

[8] Or, "these gatherings for the most part consist of equals in age
(young fellows), in whose society the virtue of modesty is least
likely to display itself."

[9] See Plut. "Lycurg." 12 (Clough, i. 98).

[10] Or, "that they are not going to stay all night where they have
supped."

[11] See Plut. "Lycurg." 12 (Clough, i. 99).

In connection with this matter, Lycurgus had not failed to observe the
effect of equal amounts of food on different persons. The hardworking
man has a good complexion, his muscles are well fed, he is robust and
strong. The man who abstains from work, on the other hand, may be
detected by his miserable appearance; he is blotched and puffy, and