inseparable companions of their party. But unjustly, some one may
say. Be it so then; for we consider not now the truth of the
charge, but what fame and reputation they are of in the world.
And we shall forbear at present to mention the many books that have
been written to defame them, and the blackening decrees made
against them by several republics; for that would look like
bitterness. But if the answers of oracles, the providence of the
gods, and the tenderness and affection of parents to their
issue,--if civil policy, military order, and the office of
magistracy be things to be looked upon as deservedly esteemed and
celebrated, it must of necessity then be allowed also, that they
that tell us it is none of their business to preserve the Greeks,
but they must eat and drink so as not to offend but pleasure their
stomachs, are base and ignominious persons, and that their being
reputed such must needs extremely humble them and make their lives
untoward to them, if they take honor and a good name for any part of their satisfaction.

When Theon had thus spoken, we thought good to break up our walk to
rest us awhile (as we were wont to do) upon the benches. Nor did
we continue any long space in our silence at what was spoken;
for Zeuxippus, taking his hint from what had been said, spake to
us: Who will make up that of the discourse which is yet behind?
For it hath not yet received its due conclusion; and this
gentleman, by mentioning divination and providence, did in my
opinion suggest as much to us; for these people boast that these
very things contribute in no way to the providing of their lives
with pleasure, serenity, and assurance; so that there must be
something said to these too. Aristodemus subjoined then and said:
As to pleasure, I think there hath been enough said already to
evince that, supposing their doctrine to be successful and to