Koinon Hellenon: Athens X Sparta (.org X TWCenter), a participative AAR - Athenai

[Gaius Sempronius Gracchus]

"I will keep this short and to the point. I DISAGREE with the proposal that a democratic Kleroucheia be established in Kretai, for the reasons put forth by Leumenes. It follows, then, that I AGREE with Leumenes' proposal to put in place a Tyrannos there.

I do AGREE with Arthourus that a new fleet, preferably of trireme, be raised.

I vehemently DISAGREE with the proposal that we attack Pella. This war with Macedonia was not sought by us. Are we to transit from one bloody war of attrition to another without pause. Taking Pella will put us, almost inevitably, on a war footing with Epiros, as well as in line of sight of the barbarian Getai tribes. Let the Macedonians at Pella bear the brunt of that aggression, and we can pick up the pieces when we are ready. Our fortifications and garrisons in Thessaly are sufficient to hold the Macedons in check. Let us hold them there, as a sponge, to soak up the urge for war within the barbarian hearts of the Epirotes and the Getai.

I PROPOSE that we be prepared to take Mytilene and then Pergamon from the Macedonians when, and it is a matter of time, they take Pergamon. They will leave a weakened garrison in Mytilene, and their exertions in taking Pergamon will weaken their main force.

We have experience, with Demetrias and in Kretai, of how costly taking a garrisoned town can be. Let others pay that price, let us take the rewards.

Also, we need the income from the trade that Mytilene and Pergamon will bring us. And it will weaken the Macedonian position further. Hold them in Pella.

For the same reasons I believe we should, in whatever way we can, implore the Spartan council to desist from any hostile moves toward Thermon, for now."