"Men of Athens," he said, "and you, our faithful allies, your
lives, your liberty, and the future of all who are dear to you, are in
your own hands. If you would ever see home again, you must resolve to
conquer fortune, even against her will, like seasoned veterans, inured
to the perils and vicissitudes of war. Hitherto we have generally got
the better of the enemy on land and we are now going to fight a land
battle on the sea. As soon as you come within reach of a Syracusan
vessel, fling your grappling-irons, and hold her fast, until not a man
is left alive to defend her deck. This will be the task of the
soldiers, whom I need not tell to do their duty. And you, seamen of
the Athenian fleet, be not dismayed because we have forsaken our
former tactics, but trust to the strong arms of the fighting men.
Remember, those of you who are not of Attic descent, how long you have
enjoyed the high privileges of Athenian citizens, and the honour
reflected on you by your connection with Athens.
"My last word shall be spoken to you, fellow-citizens, Athenians born
and bred. You know what you have to expect from the Syracusans, if
this last struggle should end in defeat. But consider further what
will be the fate of your friends at home. Their docks are empty, their
walls are stripped of defenders, and if you fail them, Syracuse will
unite with their old enemies, and bear them down.
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