makes them exclude their slaves from the place of arms. Nor need we be
surprised if, when retiring for necessary purposes, they only withdraw
just far enough from one another, or from the place of arms itself,
not to create annoyance. The need of precaution is the whole
explanation.

[7] See Critias, ap. Schneider ad loc.

The frequency with which they change their encampments is another
point. It is done quite as much for the sake of benefiting their
friends as of annoying their enemies.

Further, the law enjoins upon all Lacedaemonians, during the whole
period of an expedition, the constant practice of gymnastic[8]
exercises, whereby their pride[9] in themselves is increased, and they
appear freer and of a more liberal aspect than the rest of the
world.[10] The walk and the running ground must not exceed in
length[11] the space covered by a regimental division,[12] so that no
one may find himself far from his own stand of arms. After the
gymnastic exercises the senior polemarch gives the order (by herald)
to be seated. This serves all the purposes of an inspection. After
this the order is given "to get breakfast," and for "the outposts[13]
to be relieved." After this, again, come pastimes and relaxations
before the evening exercises, after which the herald's cry is heard
"to take the evening meal." When they have sung a hymn to the gods to
whom the offerings of happy omen had been performed, the final order,
"Retire to rest at the place of arms,"[14] is given.

[8] Cf. Herod. vii. 208; Plut. "Lycurg." 22 (Clough, i. 113 foll.)