[44]
But where
does our practice break down, and where lies the grievance? It is when the rich
see certain persons transferring this usage from public moneys to private
property; when the speaker is raised to instant greatness among you and even to
immortality, as far as his privilege can secure it; and when your shouts of open
approval are contradicted by your secret vote.1
1 The recognized appropriation of public money for the Theoric Fund is imitated by demagogues, who prosecute the rich in order that their fines and confiscations may be used for similar benefits. The demagogue thus acquires undue influence and, being privileged, is unassailable. Meanwhile the people, sitting as a jury, applaud the rich man when he skilfully defends his rights, but cast their votes against him.
Demosthenes. Demosthenes with an English translation by J. H. Vince, M.A. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1930.
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