[2] On the Navy Boards is a speech of general interest, which provided Demosthenes an opportunity to be an advocate for common sense.
The ecclesia had convened to consider a rumored threat against Athens by the Great King of Persia.
The orator espoused moderation and did not endeavor to rouse the hot-blooded ones of his audience against the Persians.
[3] He advocated avoiding any provocation, but he also proposed a well-organised preparation in case of war.
For this reason he supported the reform of the "symmoriai" (boards) through which the Athenian fleet was funded.