Antidosis

for the result, at any rate so far as the present issue is concerned, will be altogether to my advantage. For if you suppose that I was their counsellor and teacher, I should deserve from you greater gratitude than those who are maintained in the Prytaneum in recognition of excellence;[*](In the Prytaneum were entertained at state expense honored guests and benefactors of Athens. See Plat. Apol. 36d, which has clearly inspired this passage.) for each of the latter has furnished to the city his own high qualities alone, whereas I have furnished those of all whom I have just now named to you.

But if, on the other hand, you suppose that I, myself, had nothing to do with their achievements, but that I merely enjoyed their society and friendship, I consider that even this view is defense enough against the charges on which I am being tried. For if I have had the affection of men who have received rewards in recognition of excellence, but have nothing in common with the sycophant, then how, in all reason, could you judge me to be a corrupter of youth?