First Dialogue

Summary

Eunomius: tell me, Philalethes, whither you go in so much haste.

Philalethes: I can more easily tell you from whence I come than whither I go; for being wearied with business at court, I do now only seek a few hours' refreshment and do not much care where I find it.

Eunomius: if that be your only design, I may (without the necessity of making an apology) offer to accompany you and, if you please, will lead you into a garden into which I do usually retire when I would avoid company.

Philalethes: your company is ever very pleasing unto me, and I have more reason than ordinary now to seek it, since you, perhaps, who are engaged in none of our affairs, look upon them without passion and may be able to explain some things that very much perplex me.

Eunomius: I cannot promise unto my self so much happiness. But if you find any ease in pouring out your cares into a friend's bosom, you may be sure of all the assistance and service that is in my power, and that whatsoever you deliver unto me, shall be most faithful^*ly^* closed up in secrecy, until you command me to draw it forth.

Philalethes: I have ever found in you all the qualities of a perfect friend, and though I have been long enough at court to conform myself for the most part to the rules that govern there, | I have yet I know not what obscure remembrance of virtue and piety that makes me esteem persons who are so eminent in both as you are.