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
conversation instead; and if you will allow me, I will tell you
what sort of conversation."
Several of the company exclaimed at once: Be our director then yourself. Explain what style of talk we should engage in to achieve that object. (3)
(3) {exegou}. "Prescribe the form of words we must lay hold of to
achieve the object, and we will set to work, arch-casuist."
Nothing (he replied) would please me better than to demand of Callias a prompt performance of his promise. He told us, you recollect, if we would dine with him, he would give us an exhibition of his wisdom.
To which challenge Callias: That I will readily, but you on your side, one and all, must propound some virtue of which you claim to have the knowledge.
Socrates replied: At any rate, not one of us will have the least objection to declaring what particular thing he claims to know as best worth having.
Agreed (proceeded Callias); and for my part I proclaim at once what I am proudest of. My firm belief is, I have got the gift to make my fellow-mortals better.
Make men better! (cried Antisthenes); and pray how? by teaching them some base mechanic art? or teaching them nobility of soul? (4)
(4) Or, "beauty and nobility of soul" ({kalokagathia}). See "Mem." I.
vi. 14.