And in what sort of actions or with a view to what result is
the just man most able to do harm to his enemy and good to
his friend?
In going to war against the one and in making alliances with
the other.
But when a man is well, my dear Polemarchus, there is no
need of a physician?
No.
And he who is not on a voyage has no need of a pilot?
No.
Then in time of peace justice will be of no use?
I am very far from thinking so.
You think that justice may be of use in peace as well as in
war?
Yes.
Like husbandry for the acquisition of corn?
Yes.
Or like shoemaking for the acquisition of shoes--that is what
you mean?
Yes.
And what similar use or power of acquisition has justice in
time of peace?
In contracts, Socrates, justice is of use.
And by contracts you mean partnerships?
Exactly.
But is the just man or the skilful player a more useful and
better partner at a game of draughts?
The skilful player.
And in the laying of bricks and stones is the just man a more
useful or better partner than the builder?
Quite the reverse.
Then in what sort of partnership is the just man a better
partner than the harp-player, as in playing the harp the harp-
player is certainly a better partner than the just man?
In a money partnership.
Yes, Polemarchus, but surely not in the use of money; for
you do not want a just man to be your counsellor in the pur-
