14
Why, these are of the same nature, and the complaint, although recent, is very like those for which we have already provided juries, so that it ought to be tried along with them.
14
You appear to have been unduly influenced to make the request, Hermes. Let us make the drawing, however, since you wish; but only for these two cases; we have enough on the docket. Give me the writs.
14
Oratory v. the Syrian: neglect. Dialogue v. the same: maltreatment.
14
Who is this man? His name is not recorded.
14
Empanel a jury for him as it stands in the writ— for the public speaker, the Syrian. There is nothing to hinder its being done anonymously.
14
Look here, are we really to try cases from over the border here in Athens, on the Areopagus? They ought to have been tried on the other side of the Euphrates. However, draw eleven jurors, the same to sit for both cases.
14
You are right, Justice, to avoid spending too much in jury-fees.
15
Let the first jury sit, in the“case of the Academy v. Intemperance. Fill the water-clock. Plead first, Intemperance . . . Why does she hold her tongue and shake her head? Go to her and find out, Hermes.
15
She says that she cannot plead her case because her tongue is tied with drink and she is afraid of getting laughed at in court. She can hardly stand, as you see.
15
Then let her have an advocate appear, one of these public pleaders. There are plenty of them ready to split their lungs for three obols!
15
But not one will care to espouse the cause of Intemperance, not openly, at any rate. However, this request of hers seems reasonable.
15
What request?
15
“The Academy,” she says, “is always ready to argue on both sides and trains herself to be able to speak eloquently both pro and con. Therefore let her plead first for me, and then after that she will plead for herself.”
15
That is unprecedented. Nevertheless, make both speeches, Academy, since it is easy for you.
