Philosophies for Sale (18-19)

My word, what generosity! And what is the gist of your wisdom?

My “ideas”; I mean the patterns of existing things: for of everything that you behold, the earth, with all that is upon it, the sky, the sea, invisible images exist outside the universe.

Where do they exist?

Nowhere; for if they were anywhere, they would not be.[*]

I do not see these patterns that you speak of.

Of course not, for the eye of your soul is blind; but I see images of everything,—an invisible “you,” another “me,” and in a word, two of everything.

Then I must buy you for your wisdom and your sharp sight. (Zo Hermes.) Come, let’s see what price you will make me for him?

Give me two talents.

He is sold to me at the price you mention, But I will pay the money later on.

What is your name?

Dion of Syracuse.[*]

He is yours; take him, with good luck to you. Epicurean, I want you now. Who will buy him? He is a pupil of the laugher yonder and of the drunkard, both of whom we put up a short time ago.[*] In one way, however, he knows more than they, because he is more impious. Besides, he is agreeable and fond of good eating.

What is his price?

Two minas.

Here you are. But, say! I want to know what food he likes.

He eats sweets and honey-cakes, and, above all, figs.

No trouble about that; we shall buy him cakes of pressed figs from Caria.