The first one--that there are Gods--is never contested but by the most impious of men; nay, though it can never be rooted out of my mind, yet I believe it on the authority of our ancestors, and not on the proofs which you have brought.

Why do you expect a proof from me, says Balbus, if you thoroughly believe it?
Because, says Cotta, I come to this discussion as if I had never thought of the Gods, or heard anything concerning them.

Take me as a disciple wholly ignorant and unbiassed, and prove to me all the points which I ask.
Begin, then, replies Balbus.

I would first know, says Cotta, why you have been so long in proving the existence of the Gods, which you said was a point so very evident to all, that there was no need of any proof?
In that, answers Balbus, I have followed your example, whom I have often observed, when pleading in the Forum, to load the judge with all the arguments which the nature of your cause would permit.

This also is the practice of philosophers, and I have a right to follow it.
Besides, you may as well ask me why I look upon you with two eyes, since I can see you with one.
IV.