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Glaucon added, 'Yes, Socrates, and there is reason in spending

the whole of life in such discussions; but pray, without more

ado, tell us how this community is to be carried out, and how the

interval between birth and education is to be filled up.' Well, I

said, the subject has several difficulties-What is possible? is

the first question. What is desirable? is the second. 'Fear not,'

he replied, 'for you are speaking among friends.' That, I

replied, is a sorry consolation; I shall destroy my friends as

well as myself. Not that I mind a little innocent laughter; but

he who kills the truth is a murderer. 'Then,' said Glaucon,

laughing, 'in case you should murder us we will acquit you

beforehand, and you shall be held free from the guilt of

deceiving us.'