For the pass was a difficult one, and was always guarded by the Athenians; and, in the present instance, the Lacedaemonians had information that they meant to dispute their passage.

So they resolved to remain in Boeotia, and to consider which would be the safest line of march.

They had also another reason for this resolve.

Secret encouragement had been given them by a party in Athens, who hoped to put an end to the reign of democracy and the building of the Long Walls.

Meanwhile the Athenians marched against them with their whole levy and a thousand Argives and the respective contingents of the rest of their allies.