se the kinds
and species of virtues; hence are discovered those things which nature
regards as the bounds and extremities of good and evil; by this it is
discovered to what all duties ought to be referred, and which is the most
eligible manner of life. And when these and similar points have been
investigated, the principal consequence which is deduced from them, and
that which is our main object in this discussion, is the establishment of
the point--that virtue is of itself sufficient to a happy life.

The third qualification of our wise man is the next to be considered,
which goes through and spreads itself over every part of wisdom; it is
that whereby we define each particular thing, distinguish the genus from
its species, connect consequences, draw just conclusions, and distinguish
truth from falsehood, which is the very art and science of disputing;
which is not only of the greatest use in the examination of what passes in
the world, but is likewise the most rational entertainment, and that which
is most becoming to true wisdom. Such are its effects in retirement. Now
let our wise man be considered as protecting the republic; what can be
more excellent than such a character? By his prudence he will discover the
true interests of his fellow-citizens, by his justice he will be prevented
from applying what belongs to the public to his own use; and in short, he
will be ever governed by all the virtues which are many and various? To
these let us add the advantage of his friendships; in which the learned
reckon not only a natural harmony and agreement of sentiments throughout
the conduct of life, but the utmost pleasure and satisfaction in
conversing and passing our time constantly with one another. What can be
wanting to such a life as this, to make it more happy than it is? Fortune
herself must yield to a life stored with such joys. Now if it be a
happiness to rejoice in such goods of the mind, that is to say, in such
virtues, and if all wise men enjoy thoroughly these pleasures, it must
necessarily be granted that all such are happy.

XXVI. _A._ What, when in torments and on the rack?

_M._ Do you imagine I am speaking of him as laid on roses and violets? Is
it allowable even for Epicurus (who only puts on the appearance of being a
philosopher, and who himself assumed that name for himself,) to say,
(though as matters stand, I commend him for his saying,) that a wise man
might at all times cry out, though he be burned