[Sidenote: Nevertheless, Socrates is confident that Euthyphro knows the truth, but will not tell him.] _Soc._ Then we must begin again and ask, What is piety? That is an enquiry which I shall never be weary of pursuing as far as in me lies; and I entreat you not to scorn me, but to apply your mind to the utmost, and tell me the truth. For, if any man knows, you are he; and therefore I must detain you, like Proteus, until you tell. If you had not certainly known the nature of piety and impiety, I am confident that you would never, on behalf of a serf, have charged your aged father with murder. You would not have run such a risk of doing wrong in the sight of the gods, and you would have had too much respect for the opinions of men. I am sure, therefore, that you know the nature of piety and impiety. Speak out then, my dear Euthyphro, and do not hide your knowledge. [Sidenote: _Euthyphro departs._] [Sidenote: Euthyphro is in a hurry to depart, and finally leaves Socrates to his fate.] _Euth._ Another time, Socrates; for I am in a hurry, and must go now. _Soc._ Alas! my companion, and will you leave me in despair? I was hoping that you would instruct me in the nature of piety and impiety; and then I might have cleared myself of Meletus and his indictment. I would have told him that I had been enlightened by Euthyphro, and had 16 given up rash innovations and speculations, in which I indulged only through ignorance, and that now I am about to lead a better life. FOOTNOTES [13] Cp. 1 Alcib. 111 foll. APOLOGY. INTRODUCTION. [Sidenote: _Apology._] [Sidenote: INTRODUCTION.]