39–41
VIRTUE
Well, then, let us now initiate our second bowl of wine. Let us summon up those others to be punished for the insults they are inflicting upon us. Frankness shall accuse each of them.
PHILOSOPHY
Quite right, Virtue; so slip down into the town, Syllogism, my lad, and summon the philosophers.
SYLLOGISM
Oyez! Silence! Let the philosophers come to the Acropolis to present their defence before Virtue, Philosophy, and Justice.
FRANKNESS
Do you see! Very few of them understood the summons and are coming up. Besides, they fear Justice, and most of them are actually too busy because of their attentions to the rich. If you wish them all to come, Syllogism, make your proclamation like this—
SYLLOGISM
No! You summon them, Frankness. in the way you think best.
FRANKNESS
Nothing hard about that. Oyez! Silence! All who assert that they are philosophers, and all who think that they have any connection with the name, come tothe Acropolis for a distribution of gifts! Two minas will be given to every man, and a seed-cake also; and whoever displays a Jong beard shall receive a basket of figs into the bargain. Never mind temperance or justice or self-control, as these qualities are not essential if they are not available; but let each bring with him five syllogisms by all means, for without these it is impossible to be wise. Lo, we have set up as prize two talents of gold for the contest; These shall we give unto him who prevails over all in debating! Cf. Iliad18, 507-8.
