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and, finally, they began war upon the Phocians,Ten years, 356-346 B.C. See Isoc. 5.50. expecting that in a short time they would conquer their cities, occupy all the surrounding territory, and prevail over all the treasures at DelphiThe Phocians met their expenses in the war from the rich treasures in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. by the outlay of their own funds. But none of these hopes has been realized; instead of seizing the cities of the Phocians they have lost cities of their own;Orchomenus, Coroneia, Corsiae. Dio. Sic. 16.33-58. and now when they invade the enemy’s territory they inflict less damage upon them than they suffer when they are retreating to their own country;
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for while they are in Phocian territory they succeed in killing a few hirelingThe Phocian forces were composed mainly of mercenaries. soldiers who are better off dead than alive, but when they retreat they lose of their own citizens those who are most esteemed and most ready to die for their fatherland. And so completely have their fortunes shifted, that whereas they once hoped that all Hellas would be subject to them, now they rest upon youThe war was concluded shortly after this by the intervention of Philip against the Phocians. the hopes of their own deliverance. Therefore I think that the Thebans also will do with alacrity whatever you command or advise.
