the cups round, quickening the pace each circuit.[54]

[54] Or, "at something faster than a hand-gallop each round." See the
drinking song in "Antony and Cl." i. 7. 120.



III

During this interval, whilst the cup-bearers carried out their duties,
the boy played on the lyre tuned to accompany the flute, and sang.[1]

[1] Cf. Plat. "Laws," 812 C; Aristot. "Poet." i. 4.

The performance won the plaudits of the company, and drew from
Charmides a speech as follows: Sirs, what Socrates was claiming in
behalf of wine applies in my opinion no less aptly to the present
composition. So rare a blending of boyish and of girlish beauty, and
of voice with instrument, is potent to lull sorrow to sleep, and to
kindle Aphrodite's flame.

Then Socrates, reverting in a manner to the charge: The young people
have fully proved their power to give us pleasure. Yet, charming as
they are, we still regard ourselves, no doubt, as much their betters.
What a shame to think that we should here be met together, and yet
make no effort ourselves to heighten the festivity![2]

[2] See Plat. "Prot." 347 D; "A company like this of ours, and men
such as we profess to be, do not require the help of another's
voice," etc.--Jowett. Cf. id. "Symp." 176: "To-day let us have