16–17
Philosophy
Ladies, will you stroll in the Poecile meanwhile? I will join you when I have given judgement.
Lucian
Who are these, Philosophy? methinks their appearance is seemly as your own.
Philosophy
This with the masculine features is Virtue; then there is Temperance, and Justice by her side. In front is Culture; and this shadowy creature with the indefinite complexion is Truth.
Lucian
I do not see which you mean.
Philosophy
Not see her? over there, all naked and unadorned, shrinking from observation, and always slipping out of sight.
5
Lucian
Now just discern her. But why not bring them all with you? there would be a fullness and completeness about that commission. Ah yes, and I should like to brief Truth on my behalf.
Philosophy
Well thought of; come, all of you; you will not mind sitting through a single case—in which we have a personal interest, too?
Truth
Go on, the rest of you; it is superfluous for me to hear what I know all about before.
Philosophy
But, Truth dear, your presence will be useful to us; you will show us what to think.
Truth
May I bring my two favourite maids, then?
Philosophy
And as many more as you like.
Truth
Come with me, Freedom and Frankness; this poor little adorer of ours is in trouble without any real reason; we shall be able to get him out of it. Exposure, my man, we shall not want you.
5
Lucian
Ah yes, Mistress, let us have him, of all others; my opponents are no ordinary ruffians; they are people who make a fine show and are hard to expose; they have always some back way out of a difficulty; we must have Exposure.
