Sometimes it's very useful to know whether certain monsters will join you or not. If they attack, there's a chance to increase the strength of your army and then recruit them. Without thieves, not only do the monsters not join, but you also lose your own troops.
Also, if monsters join for gold, you might be short by 100 gold. Without thieves, you would simply attack them and kill them. But this way, you sell resources and gain a significant advantage in your army.
You've convinced me; this might be helpful in the first few days or weeks of the game. But later on, your army will be stronger, and you'll have more money.
Best regards, Draco
