43a
Socrates.
Why have you come at this time, Crito? Or isn’t it still early?
Socrates.
About what time?
Socrates.
I am surprised that the watchman of the prison was willing to let you in.
Crito.
He is used to me by this time, Socrates, because I come here so often, and besides I have done something for him.
Socrates.
Have you just come, or some time ago?
Crito.
Some little time ago.
43b
Socrates.
Then why did you not wake me at once, instead of sitting by me in silence?
Crito.
No, no, by Zeus, Socrates, I only wish I myself were not so sleepless and sorrowful. But I have been wondering at you for some time, seeing how sweetly you sleep; and I purposely refrained from waking you, that you might pass the time as pleasantly as possible. I have often thought throughout your life hitherto that you were of a happy disposition, and I think so more than ever in this present misfortune, since you bear it so easily and calmly.
Socrates.
Well, Crito, it would be absurd
43c
if at my age I were disturbed because I must die now.
Crito.
Other men as old, Socrates, become involved in similar misfortunes, but their age does not in the least prevent them from being disturbed by their fate.
Socrates.
That is true. But why have you come so early?
Crito.
To bring news, Socrates, sad news, though apparently not sad to you, but sad and grievous me and all your friends, and to few of them, I think, so grievous as to me.
Socrates.
What is this news? Has the ship come from
,
43d
at the arrival of which I am to die?
Crito.
It has not exactly come, but I think it will come today from the reports of some men who have come from Sunium and left it there. Now it is clear from what they say that it will come today, and so tomorrow, Socrates, your life must end.
Socrates.
Well, Crito, good luck be with us! If this is the will of the gods, so be it. However, I do not think
44a
it will come today.
