ST. It has been the constant illusion of my soul.
BON. Ah, I understand; it is your hobby, after the manner of Sterne. So you are seeking the philosopher's stone?
ST. One would think, to hear you talk, that it is impossible to find it.
BON. There are two illusions in this world, though both flow from the same error; that of physical and that of moral alchemy. This idealistic philosophy leads to an abyss.
ST. One, nevertheless, which wit and sagacity may illumine with the rays of genius to its inmost recesses. Do you never build castles in the air, General? Do you never go and dwell in them? Do you never dream, to charm away the monotony of life?
BON. I leave dreams to sleep, and retain reason for my waking hours.
ST. Then you can never be either amused or surprised! You have a scouting party stationed to watch that outpost, the imagination?
BON. Wisdom counsels me to do so, and makes it my duty.
ST.—AFTER A MOMENT'S REFLECTION.—General, who, in your opinion, is the greatest of women?
BON. She who bears the most children.[3]