[23] See Cobet, "Pros. Xen." p. 59. Cf. "Mem." I. iii. 8.

[24] Or, "for that they reveal his splendour to me."

Yes, and herein also have we, the beautiful,[25] just claim to boast.
The strong man may by dint of toil obtain good things; the brave, by
danger boldly faced, and the wise by eloquence of speech; but to the
beautiful alone it is given to achieve all ends in absolute
quiescence. To take myself as an example. I know that riches are a
sweet possession, yet sweeter far to me to give all that I have to
Cleinias than to receive a fortune from another. Gladly would I become
a slave--ay, forfeit freedom--if Cleinias would deign to be my lord.
Toil in his service were easier for me than rest from labour: danger
incurred in his behalf far sweeter than security of days. So that if
you, Callias, may boast of making men more just and upright, to me
belongs by juster right than yours to train mankind to every
excellence. We are the true inspirers[26] who infuse some subtle fire
into amorous souls, we beauties, and thereby raise them to new heights
of being; we render them more liberal in the pursuit of wealth; we
give them a zest for toil that mocks at danger, and enables them where
honour the fair vision leads, to follow.[27] We fill their souls with
deeper modesty, a self-constraint more staunch; about the things they
care for most, there floats a halo of protecting awe.[28] Fools and
unwise are they who choose not beauteous men to be their generals. How
merrily would I, at any rate, march through fire by the side of
Cleinias;[29] and so would all of you, I know full well, in company of
him who now addresses you.

[25] "We beauties."