tes and Plato, and all the answers of the great
Diogenes. I know your country, and I am ashamed of my city when I see
such fools as those. Do you know who is to blame for these follies that
dishonor us? Sonnica, that Sonnica whom they call 'the rich,' an
old-time courtesan who will succeed in making Saguntum a reproach,
destroying the traditions of the city, and the simple, healthful customs
of other times."

On hearing the name of Sonnica a murmur of protest arose from the group.

"Do you see?" shouted the philosopher, becoming more abusive. "They are
adulatory slaves who tremble at the truth. The name of Sonnica produces
in them the same effect as that of a goddess. Do you see that one
running away? Well, not long ago Sonnica lent his father a great sum
without interest, that he might buy wheat in Sicily, and so he thinks he
must run away from any place where things are said against her. See that
one turning his back? The courtesan freed his father, who was a slave,
and he does not wish to hear anything said that might annoy Sonnica. And
these others, who are more valiant, and remain staring as if they would
devour me, have all received favors from her, and would like to beat me
for my words as they have done before. They are slaves who defend her as
if she were a beneficent divinity. There are many others like them in
Saguntum, and that is why the magistrates dare not punish that Grecian
woman, who with her mad extravagances scandalizes the city. Come, beat
me, shopkeepers! Beat the only one in Saguntum who does not lie!"

The crowd slunk away, leaving the philosopher shaking his fist and
hurling epithets of indignation.

"What you ought to do," said one of the latter scornfully as he retired,
"is to show more gratitude. If you ever get anything to eat, it is at
Sonnica's table."

"I shall eat to-night, then!" shouted the philosopher insolently. "And
what do you prove by that? I will tell her to her face the same that I
say here! And she will laugh as usual, while you will be eating swill in
your houses and thinking of her banquet!"

"Ingrate! Parasite!" exclaimed the man, turning his back contemptuously.

"Gratitude is the condition of the dog. Man shows his superiority by
speaking ill of those who favor him. If you do not wish Euphobias the
philosopher to be a parasite, maintain him in exchange for his wisdom."

By this time Euphobias was talking to empty space. They had all left,
and had mingled with the m