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STATESMEN AND ORATORS. 191From these, it is true, we chiefly derive our knowledge ofthem. But how differentlywould Demosthenes appear tous, if we were particularly acquaintedwith the details of hispolitical career! 1 How much must have been needed toeffect such an alliance, as he was repeatedly able to form !"What journeys, what connexions, what skill in winning persons of influence, and in managing mankind !And what were the means which these statesmen of antiquity could command, when we compare them with thoseof modern times? They had no' orders from the cabinet toexecute. They had not the disposal of the wealth of nations ; they could not obtain by force, what others wouldnot voluntarily yield.Even the comparison which mightbe made between them and the British statesmen, is trueonly as far as the latter also stood in need of eloquence toconfirm their influence. But the other means which Pittcould employ to form a party, were not possessed by Demosthenes. He had no presents to offer, no places to giveaway, no ribbons and titles to promise. On the contrary,he was opposed by men, who could control every thing bywhich covetousness or ambition can be tempted. Whatcould he oppose to them, but his talents, his activity,andhis courage ? Provided with no other arms, he supportedthe contest againstthe superiorityof foreign strength, andthe still more dangerous contest with the corruptions of hisown nation. It was his high calling, to be the pillar of asinking state. Thirty years he remained true to it,and hedid not yieldtill he was buried beneath its ruins.CHAPTER XIV.THE SCIENCES IN CONNEXION WITH THE STATE.THE relation which exists between science and politicalinstitutions, is of a twofold nature. It may be asked, What1If the roice of history on this subject were not loud enough, this mightbe inferred from the calumnies of Dinarchus. It is not inconsistent with It,that Demosthenes may sometimes, in his negotiations, have been too muchcarried away by the liveliness of his feelings.