The Athenians returned in triumph to their city.

At the price of two minae each, their numerous prisoners were ransomed, and the captive chains suspended from the walls of the citadel.

A tenth part of the general ransom was consecrated, and applied to the purchase of a brazen chariot, placed in the entrance of the citadel, with an inscription which dedicated it to the tutelary goddess of Athens.
"Not from the example of the Athenians only," proceeds the father of history, "but from universal experience, do we learn that an equal form of government is the best.

While in subjection to tyrants the Athenians excelled in war none of their neighbours--delivered from the oppressor, they excelled them all; an evident proof that, controlled by one man they exerted themselves feebly, because exertion was for a master; regaining liberty, each man was made zealous, because his zeal was for himself, and his individual interest was the common weal." [256] Venerable praise and accurate distinction! [257] XV.

The Boeotians, resentful of their defeat, sent to the Pythian oracle to demand the best means of obtaining revenge.