4. That the property of Eraton would rightfully be ours, is easily seen
from these men, and that it is all confiscated, from the lists, for three
or four persons entered the items. Now this is clear to every one that
they would not have omitted anything else which it was possible to
confiscate while making a list of all Eraton's property,--even what I
have for some time held myself.
I think it is evident that I cannot recover this money elsewhere if you
confiscate this property. 5. But now see in what a different spirit I and
these persons make my claim against you. For as long as the friends of
Erasiphon disputed the property with me, I claimed it was all mine,
because Erasistratus was defeated while defending a suit against my
father for the whole. And I have let the property at Sphettus for three
years past, and was engaged in a suit with the occupants of the property
at Cicyna and the house there. But last year they struck out the suit on
the ground that they were merchants; but now, though I brought in my suit
in the month Gamelion, the Marine Court rendered no decision. 6. And
since you thought best to confiscate Eraton's property, I think two
shares should be allowed the state and the property of Erasistratus be
voted to me, as you have decided that this was formerly in my possession.
So I have picked out for myself one-third of the property, roughly
estimated, and leaving over two-thirds to the state. 7. It is easy to
find out from the valuation put upon it. All the property has been valued
at more than a talent, and what I claim, I value at five minae and a
thousand drachmae respectively. If they are worth more than this, when
the property is sold, the state shall have the rest. 8. That you may know
that these are the facts, I will bring as witnesses to you, first, those
who hired from me the place at Sphettus, then those living near the place
at Cicyna who were acquainted with me when I made the claim three years
ago, also the archons of last year before whom the suits were brought,
and the present Marine Court. 9. The lists too will be read you, for from
them you will know that my claim to this property is not a recent one,
and that I do not ask more from the state than from private individuals.
Now call the witnesses.