7–9
Heraclitus
That he can do and more. Set him to guard your house, and you will find him better than any watch-dog.— They call him Dog for short.
Second Dealer
Where does he come from? and what is his method?
10
Heraclitus
He can best tell you that himself.
Second Dealer
I don’t like his looks. He will probably snarl if I go near him, or take a snap at me, for all I know. See how he lifts his stick, and scowls; an awkward-looking customer!
Heraclitus
Don’t be afraid. He is quite tame.
Second Dealer
Tell me, good fellow, where do you come from?
Second Dealer
What does that mean?
Diogenes
It means that I am a citizen of the world.
Second Dealer
And your model?
5
Second Dealer
Then why no lion’s-skin? You have the orthodox club.
Diogenes
My cloak is my lion’s-skin. Like Heracles, I live in a state of warfare, and my enemy is Pleasure; but unlike him I am a volunteer. My purpose is to purify humanity.
Second Dealer
A noble purpose. Now what do I understand to be your strong subject?. What is your profession?
Diogenes
The liberation of humanity, and the treatment of the” passions, In short, I am the prophet of Truth and Candour.
10
Second Dealer
Well, prophet; and if I buy you, how shall you handle my case?
