Part 29 (1/2)

PUPIL.

As I think, I exist. 'Tis good! But who always is thinking?

Oft I've existed e'en when I have been thinking of naught.

SECOND PHILOSOPHER.

Since there are things that exist, a thing of all things there must needs be; In the thing of all things dabble we, just as we are.

THIRD PHILOSOPHER.

Just the reverse, say I. Besides myself there is nothing; Everything else that there is is but a bubble to me.

FOURTH PHILOSOPHER.

Two kinds of things I allow to exist,--the world and the spirit; Naught of others I know; even these signify one.

FIFTH PHILOSOPHER.

I know naught of the thing, and know still less of the spirit; Both but appear unto me; yet no appearance they are.

SIXTH PHILOSOPHER.

I am I, and settle myself,--and if I then settle Nothing to be, well and good--there's a nonent.i.ty formed.

SEVENTH PHILOSOPHER.

There is conception at least! A thing conceived there is, therefore; And a conceiver as well,--which, with conception, make three.

PUPIL.

All this nonsense, good sirs, won't answer my purpose a t.i.ttle: I a real principle need,--one by which something is fixed.

EIGHTH PHILOSOPHER.

Nothing is now to be found in the theoretical province; Practical principles hold, such as: thou canst, for thou shouldst.

PUPIL.

If I but thought so! When people know no more sensible answer, Into the conscience at once plunge they with desperate haste.

DAVID HUME.

Don't converse with those fellows! That Kant has turned them all crazy; Speak to me, for in h.e.l.l I am the same that I was.

LAW POINT.

I have made use of my nose for years together to smell with; Have I a right to my nose that can be legally proved?