Book 3
6.6
Well, if you have left that out, tell us the expenditure of the city. No doubt you intend to cut down any items that are excessive.The fact is, I haven’t had time yet for that either.Oh, then we will postpone the business of making the city richer; for how is it possible to look after income and expenditure without knowing what they are?
6.7
Well, Socrates, one can make our enemies contribute to the city’s wealth.Yes, of course, provided he is stronger than they; but if he be weaker, he may lose what she has got instead.True.
6.8
Therefore, in order to advise her whom to fight, it is necessary to know the strength of the city and of the enemy, so that, if the city be stronger, one may recommend her to go to war, but if weaker than the enemy, may persuade her to beware.You are right.
6.9
First, then, tell us the naval and military strength of our city, and then that of her enemies.No, of course I can’t tell you out of my head.Well, if you have made notes, fetch them, for I should greatly like to hear this.But, I tell you, I haven’t yet made any notes either.
