TANS. I can say it, and leave it to you to consider.
CIC. If you do not mean that he who pursues the infinite is like him who
talks about the circumference when he is seeking for the centre, I do
not know what you mean.
TANS. Quite the contrary.
CIC. Now if you will not explain yourself, I cannot understand you; but
tell me, prythee, what he means by saying the heart is bound by cruel,
spiteful bonds.
TANS. He speaks in similitude or metaphor; as you would say, cruel was
one who did not allow a full enjoyment, and who lives more in the desire
than in possession, and who, partially possessing, is not content, but
desires, faints, and dies.
CIC. What are those thoughts that call him back from the noble
enterprise?
TANS. The sensual and natural affections, which regard the government of
the body.
CIC. What have they to do with it, that in no way can either help or
favour it?
TANS. They have not to do with it, but with the soul, which, being so
absorbed in one work or study, becomes remiss and careless in others.