The Spartans, after drinking in moderation at their public meals, go away without a torch. In fact, they are not permitted to walk with a light either on this route or on any other, so that they may become accustomed to travelling in darkness at night confidently and fearlessly.Cf. Plutarch’s , chap. xii. (46 f); Xenophon, , 5. 7; Plato, , 320 a.