36.6
He next
proceeded to Boeotia. The reasons which the Boeotians gave for their
animosity towards Rome I have already stated -the assassination of
Brachyllus and Quinctius' attack on Coronea in consequence of the massacre
of Roman soldiers. But as a matter of fact, that nation once so famous for its
discipline had been for many generations deteriorating both in its public and
private life, and many were in a condition which could not possibly long
continue without a revolutionary change. The leading Boeotians from all
parts of the country assembled at Thebes, and thither Antiochus went to
meet them. In spite of the fact that by his attack on the Roman detachments
at Delium and Chalcis he had committed hostile acts which were neither
trifling nor such as could be explained away, he took the same line in
addressing the Boeotian council that he had taken at his first conference at
Chalcis and had instructed his envoys to take in the council of the Achaeans.
He simply asked that friendly relations might be established with him, not
that war should be declared against Rome. No one was deceived as to what
he really meant; however, a resolution veiled in inoffensive terms was passed
in support of the king and in opposition to Rome. Having thus secured the
nation he returned to Chalcis. Letters had been previously sent to the
Aetolian leaders requesting them to meet him at Demetrias that he might
discuss with them the general conduct of the war, and he arrived there by sea
on the day fixed for the meeting. Amynander, who had been invited from
Athamania to take part in the discussion, and Hannibal, who had not been
consulted for some time, were both present. A discussion arose regarding
the people of Thessaly; all present thought they ought to be won over, the
only divergence of opinion was as to when and how this ought to be done.
Some were of opinion that they ought to set about it at once; others were for
postponing action till the spring, it being now midwinter; some again thought
that it would be enough to send a deputation, others were in favour of going
there with the whole of their forces and frightening them into compliance if
they hesitated.
