When Philip's activities in Thrace reached Byzantium, Athens, anxious for the security of her corn-route, sent aid to the Byzantines, and open war with Philip was begun; Demosthenes was the most influential voice in Athens at this time. In 339 Philip moved south and was at Elatea in Phocis before the end of the year. Demosthenes procured an alliance with the Thebans, and both sides met at Chaeronea in autumn 338, Philip winning a decisive victory. Demosthenes, who was present at the battle, delivered the funeral oration over the dead, a speech which has not survived. There was no need for Philip to impose a direct political settlement on Greece: in most cities pro-Macedonian politicians and policies naturally came to the fore. Despite the defeat at Chaeronea, a battle which Demosthenes had actively sought, his friend Ctesiphon proposed soon afterwards that he should be honoured with a gold crown at the Great Dionysia for his service to the city.