Therefore be assured that I shall like to hear you say whatever you have to say.
CLEINIAS: Yes, Stranger; and when you have heard me speak, say boldly what is in your thoughts.

Let me remind you of a tie which unites you to Crete.

You must have heard here the story of the prophet Epimenides, who was of my family, and came to Athens ten years before the Persian war, in accordance with the response of the Oracle, and offered certain sacrifices which the God commanded.

The Athenians were at that time in dread of the Persian invasion; and he said that for ten years they would not come, and that when they came, they would go away again without accomplishing any of their objects, and would suffer more evil than they inflicted.

At that time my forefathers formed ties of hospitality with you; thus ancient is the friendship which I and my parents have had for you.
ATHENIAN: You seem to be quite ready to listen; and I am also ready to perform as much as I can of an almost impossible task, which I will nevertheless attempt.