Hermotimus You trifle, Lycinus. I made a pious choice, and do not repent it; that is enough for me.

Lycinus And will you yet make a mystery of it to your friend, and let him be lost with the vulgar herd?

Hermotimus Why, you will not accept anything I say.

Lycinus On the contrary, my good sir, it is you who will not say anything I can accept. Well, as you refuse me your confidence, and are so jealous of my becoming a philosopher and your equal, I must even do my best to find out the infallible test and learn to choose safely for myself. And you may listen, if you like.

Hermotimus That I will, Lycinus; you will very likely hit on some good idea.

Lycinus Then attend, and do not mock me, if my inquiry is quite unscientific; it is all I can do, as you, who know better, will not give me any clearer light.