Burrow, Edward John: The Elgin Marbles: With an abridged historical and topographical account of Athens (London, 1837)

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the constitution and tendency of his laws (de-
nominated Setrpo)). Of these a perfect synop-
sis is given in his own words: being asked,
why he punished all crimes indiscriminately
with death, he replied, " Small offences deserve
it, and for the worst of crimes there is no
greater penalty." This answer will evince the
very small progress which Draco had made
in the knowledge of human nature, and con-
sequently in true philosophy.

Of the improvements in legislation which
were suggested by the wisdom of Solon, and Solon.
recommended by his moderate and prudent
conduct, we have already given a general
outline. When the democracy was subverted
by Pisistratus, Solon's laws (called vopot to
distinguish them from those of Draco) were
repealed, but again restored to action by
Clisthenes. They were committed to writing,
on tablets of wood, so formed as that they
might be turned round in their cases for in-
spection. It was ordained that no magis-
trate should act on an unwritten law. As the
foundation and safeguard both of civil and
moral duties, Solon inculcated a deep vene-