Pagina 342 di 1391

The manner of life in such a State is that of democrats; there is

freedom and plainness of speech, and every man does what is right

in his own eyes, and has his own way of life. Hence arise the

most various developments of character; the State is like a piece

of embroidery of which the colours and figures are the manners of

men, and there are many who, like women and children, prefer this

variety to real beauty and excellence. The State is not one but

many, like a bazaar at which you can buy anything. The great

charm is, that you may do as you like; you may govern if you

like, let it alone if you like; go to war and make peace if you

feel disposed, and all quite irrespective of anybody else. When

you condemn men to death they remain alive all the same; a

gentleman is desired to go into exile, and he stalks about the

streets like a hero; and nobody sees him or cares for him.