History of the Peloponnesian War

For if, without adequate preparation, egged on by the complaints of our allies, we shall ravage their territory, beware lest we adopt a course which might rather[*](i.e. than the opposite course.) result in disgrace and difficulties for the Peloponnesus.

For complaints, indeed, whether brought by states, or by individuals, may possibly be adjusted; but when a whole confederacy, for the sake of individual interests, undertakes a war of which no man can foresee the issue, it is not easy to end it with honour.

"And let no man think it pusillanimous that many states should hesitate to attack a single city.