On his entrance into public life he is said by Theophrastus to have possessed only three talents; but the account is inconsistent with the extravagance of his earlier career, and still more with the expenses to which a man who attempts to lead a party is, in all popular states, unavoidably subjected.

More probably, therefore, it is said of him by others, that he inherited a competent patrimony, and he did not scruple to seize upon every occasion to increase it, whether through the open emolument or the indirect perquisites of public office.

But, desiring wealth as a means, not an end, he grasped with one hand to lavish with the other.

His generosity dazzled and his manners seduced the people, yet he exercised the power he acquired with a considerate and patriotic foresight.

From the first retreat of the Persian armament he saw that the danger was suspended, and not removed.