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True, I replied, I had forgotten; of course they must have a

relish-salt, and olives, and cheese, and they will boil roots and

herbs such as country people prepare; for a dessert we shall give

them figs, and peas, and beans; and they will roast

myrtle-berries and acorns at the fire, drinking in moderation.

And with such a diet they may be expected to live in peace and

health to a good old age, and bequeath a similar life to their

children after them.

Yes, Socrates, he said, and if you were providing for a city of

pigs, how else would you feed the beasts?

But what would you have, Glaucon? I replied.

Why, he said, you should give them the ordinary conveniences of

life. People who are to be comfortable are accustomed to lie on

sofas, and dine off tables, and they should have sauces and

sweets in the modern style.