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Gryllus
GRYLLUS. Then this, we shall say, is the situation: the wisest of men thinks fit to commend and approve one thing while he loves and prefers another. Now I assume that your answer applies to the spiritual field also, for the situation is the same as with the landThe principle ubi bene, ibi patria: Pacuvius, frag. 380 (Warmington, Remains of Old Latin, ii. p. 303); Aristophanes, Plutus, 1151; Cicero, Tusc. Disp. v. 37, 108; Appian, B.C. ii. 8. 50.: that spiritual soil is better which produces a harvest of virtue as a spontaneous crop without toil.
Odysseus
ODYSSEUS. Yes, this too you may assume.
Gryllus
GRYLLUS. At this moment, then, you are conceding the point that the soul of beasts has a greater natural capacity and perfection for the generation of virtue; for without command or instruction, unsown and unploughed, as it were, it naturally brings forth and develops such virtue as is proper in each case.
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Odysseus
ODYSSEUS. And what sort of virtue, Gryllus, is ever found in beasts?
