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In the first place, I say boldly that nothing can be worse than

the present mode of study. Persons usually pick up a little

philosophy in early youth, and in the intervals of business, but

they never master the real difficulty, which is dialectic. Later,

perhaps, they occasionally go to a lecture on philosophy. Years

advance, and the sun of philosophy, unlike that of Heracleitus,

sets never to rise again. This order of education should be

reversed; it should begin with gymnastics in youth, and as the

man strengthens, he should increase the gymnastics of his soul.

Then, when active life is over, let him finally return to

philosophy. 'You are in earnest, Socrates, but the world will be

equally earnest in withstanding you-no more than Thrasymachus.'

Do not make a quarrel between Thrasymachus and me, who were never

enemies and are now good friends enough.