had it not been for the power of the Macedonians and the weakness of the other Greek states. For while engaged with these reforms, he was attacked by the Macedonians, and being by himself no match for them, and having none to whom he could turn for help, he was overpowered; and his plans, though wise and praiseworthy, were never brought to perfection.
All which circumstances considered, I conclude that he who gives new institutions to a state must stand alone; and that for the deaths of Remus and Tatius, Romulus is to be excused rather than blamed.