* Book : Crito

* Biography

* Bibliography

Persons of the Dialogue: Socrates; Crito

Scene:The Prison of Socrates.

Socrates. Why have you come at this hour, Crito? It must be quite early.

Crito. Yes, certainly.

Soc. What is the exact time?

Cr. The dawn is breaking.

Soc. I wonder the keeper of the prison would let you in.

Cr. He knows me because I often come, Socrates; moreover. I have done him a kindness.

Soc. And are you only just come?

Cr. No, I came some time ago.

Soc. Then why did you sit and say nothing, instead of awakening me at once?

Cr. Why, indeed, Socrates, I myself would rather not have all this sleeplessness and sorrow. But I have been wondering at your peaceful slumbers, and that was the reason why I did not awaken you, because I wanted you to be out of pain. I have al- ways thought you happy in the calmness of your temperament; but never did I see the like of the easy, cheerful way in which you bear this calamity.