{2} While then the Athenian arms pressed upon the Syracusans and their allies, the Egestans were relieved ; but, with the catastrophë of the Athenian forces, followed by the downfal of the influence of Hermocrates, their situation became even more perilous than before ; inasmuch as the exasperation of their enemies was increased, the hope and liberality from Syracuse was lessened, and all prospect of a protecting power anywhere among the Grecian states was done away.