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And when they have made a good beginning in play, and by the help

of music have gained the habit of good order, then this habit of

order, in a manner how unlike the lawless play of the others!

will accompany them in all their actions and be a principle of

growth to them, and if there be any fallen places in the State

will raise them up again.

Very true, he said.

Thus educated, they will invent for themselves any lesser rules

which their predecessors have altogether neglected.

What do you mean?

I mean such things as these:-when the young are to be silent

before their elders; how they are to show respect to them by

standing and making them sit; what honour is due to parents; what

garments or shoes are to be worn; the mode of dressing the hair;

deportment and manners in general. You would agree with me?

Yes.

But there is, I think, small wisdom in legislating about such

matters,-I doubt if it is ever done; nor are any precise written

enactments about them likely to be lasting.

Impossible.