And we chose two states;--one was the type of freedom, and the other of despotism; and we showed that when in a mean they attained their highest perfection.

In a similar spirit we spoke of the Dorian expedition, and of the settlement on the hills and in the plains of Troy; and of music, and the use of wine, and of all that preceded.
And now, has our discussion been of any use?
'Yes, stranger; for by a singular coincidence the Cretans are about to send out a colony, of which the settlement has been confided to the Cnosians.

Ten commissioners, of whom I am one, are to give laws to the colonists, and we may give any which we please--Cretan or foreign.

And therefore let us make a selection from what has been said, and then proceed with the construction of the state.' Very good: I am quite at your service.

'And I too,' says Megillus.
BOOK IV.