His own troops,
though about equal in numbers to the force under Cleon, were far
inferior in equipment and discipline; but he counted on some
incautious movement on the part of the Athenian general, which would
throw the picked infantry of Athens into disorder, and place them at a
disadvantage. So he left Clearidas, a young Spartan, whom he had
appointed governor of Amphipolis, in charge of the garrison, and
taking with him fifteen hundred men occupied a position on the right
bank of the river, where the ground rises abruptly to a considerable
height, affording a wide view over the city to the country beyond, as
far as Eion. From this point, which is called Cerdylium, he could
watch the proceedings of the enemy, and still have ample time to
rejoin Clearidas in Amphipolis, if, as he expected, Cleon should leave
his defences and advance upon the town.
He had not long to wait. The Athenian soldiers stationed at Eion were
chafing at their inaction, and mutinous speeches were heard on all
sides. What a man was this Cleon, this cowardly braggart, under whom
they were to take the field against the most daring and skilful leader
in Greece! They had known what to expect from such a general, since
the day when they sailed for Thrace. These murmurs reached the ears of
Cleon, and he saw that something must be attempted, or his men would
be totally demoralized.
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