“In sooth, I cannot conceive,” said I, “how any sadness can find entrance into such a state; wherefore I must needs acknowledge it full of joy⁠—at least, if our former conclusions are to hold.”

“Then, for the same reasons, this also is necessary⁠—that independence, power, renown, reverence, and sweetness of delight, are different only in name, but in substance differ no wise one from the other.”

“It is,” said I.

“This, then, which is one, and simple by nature, human perversity separates, and, in trying to win a part of that which has no parts, fails to attain not only that portion (since there are no portions), but also the whole, to which it does not dream of aspiring.”

“How so?” said I.