The first step in reformation is to practise virtue in the affairs of life, which means to subject Sense and the lower desires to Reason.

This is done in the fourfold form of the common cardinal virtues, called _political_ by Plotinus, to mark the sphere of action where they can be exerted, and is the virtue of a class of men capable of a certain elevation, though ignorant of all the rest that lies above them.

A second step is made through the means of the [Greek: katharseis] or _purifying_ virtues; where it is sought to root out, instead of merely moderating, the sensual affections.

If the soul is thus altogether freed from the dominion of sense, it becomes at once able to follow its natural bent towards good, and enters into a permanent state of calm.

This is virtue in its true meaning--becoming like to the Deity, all that went before being merely a preparation.