The Ferry (24)

If any one accuses Kyniskos, the defendant, let him come forward.

No one comes.

But this is not enough, Kyniskos. Take off your clothes, so that I may judge you by your brands.

How should I be a branded slave?

Every evil deed that one of you commits in his life brands invisible marks on his soul.

Here I stand stripped, so look for these brands you talk about.

He is spotless from head to foot, except for these three or four blurred and very indistinct brands. But what is this? Here are the prints and traces of many burnings, but they have been washed out somehow, or rather cut out. What do these mean, Kyniskos, and how is it that you look spotless again?

I will tell you. I used to be wicked because I was ignorant, and won many a brand by this means. But as soon as I began to take to philosophy, I washed off, little by little, all the stains from my soul, by the use of this so excellent and effectual medicine.

I dismiss you to the islands of the blest, to the society of the noblest, after you have accused the despot you mention. Summon the others.