to both,[27] even so the bloom of beauty after all does quickly reach
its prime; the flower withers, and when that fails, the affection
which was based upon it must also wither up and perish. But the soul,
with every step she makes in her onward course towards deeper wisdom,
grows ever worthier of love.

[25] Lit. "That without love no intercourse is worth regarding, we all
know."

[26] N.B.--{agamenon, epithumounton, sterxosi}. Here, as often, the
author seems to have studied the {orthoepeia} of Prodicus. See
"Mem." II. i. 24.

[27] i.e. "body and character."

Ay, and in the enjoyment of external beauty a sort of surfeit is
engendered. Just as the eater's appetite palls through repletion with
regard to meats,[28] so will the feelings of a lover towards his idol.
But the soul's attachment, owing to its purity, knows no satiety.[29]
Yet not therefore, as a man might fondly deem, has it less of the
character of loveliness.[30] But very clearly herein is our prayer
fulfilled, in which we beg the goddess to grant us words and deeds
that bear the impress of her own true loveliness.[31]

[28] Cf. "Mem." III. xi. 13.

[29] Lit. "is more insatiate." Cf. Charles Wesley's hymn:

O Love Divine, how sweet Thou art!
When shall I find my willing heart