gorgias   

Soc. And if he cuts, the same argument holds-there will be something

cut?

Pol. Yes.

Soc. And if the cutting be great or deep or such as will cause pain,

the cut will be of the same nature?

Pol. That is evident.

Soc. Then you would agree generally to the universal proposition

which I was just now asserting: that the affection of the patient

answers to the affection of the agent?

Pol. I agree.

Soc. Then, as this is admitted, let me ask whether being punished is

suffering or acting?

Pol. Suffering, Socrates; there can be no doubt of that.

Soc. And suffering implies an agent?

Pol. Certainly, Socrates; and he is the punisher.

Soc. And he who punishes rightly, punishes justly?

Pol. Yes.

Soc. And therefore he acts justly?

Pol. Justly.

Soc. Then he who is punished and suffers retribution, suffers

justly?

Pol. That is evident.

Soc. And that which is just has been admitted to be honourable?

Pol. Certainly.

Soc. Then the punisher does what is honourable, and the punished

suffers what is honourable?

Pol. True.

Soc. And if what is honourable, then what is good, for the

honourable is either pleasant or useful?

Pol. Certainly.

Soc. Then he who is punished suffers what is good?

Pol. That is true.