Again, the physician and the general have their objects; and the object of the one is health, of the other victory.
States, too, have their objects, and the ruler must understand, first, their nature, and secondly, the means of attaining them, whether in laws or men.

The state which is wanting in this knowledge cannot be expected to be wise when the time for action arrives.

Now what class or institution is there in our state which has such a saving power?
'I suspect that you are referring to the Nocturnal Council.' Yes, to that council which is to have all virtue, and which should aim directly at the mark.

'Very true.' The inconsistency of legislation in most states is not surprising, when the variety of their objects is considered.

One of them makes their rule of justice the government of a class; another aims at wealth; another at freedom, or at freedom and power; and some who call themselves philosophers maintain that you should seek for all of them at once.