'Just so.' And they all swore to assist any one of their number whose kingdom was subverted.

'Yes.' But did we not say that kingdoms or governments can only be subverted by themselves?
'That is true.' Yes, and the truth is now proved by facts: there were certain conditions upon which the three kingdoms were to assist one another; the government was to be mild and the people obedient, and the kings and people were to unite in assisting either of the two others when they were wronged.

This latter condition was a great security.

'Clearly.' Such a provision is in opposition to the common notion that the lawgiver should make only such laws as the people like; but we say that he should rather be like a physician, prepared to effect a cure even at the cost of considerable suffering.
'Very true.' The early lawgivers had another great advantage--they were saved from the reproach which attends a division of land and the abolition of debts.

No one could quarrel with the Dorians for dividing the territory, and they had no debts of long standing.