Chapter XL.—Further Information Sought.

When Peter had thus said, I Clement asked Niceta that he would explain to us, for the sake of instruction, some things concerning the allegories of the Gentiles, which he had carefully studied; “for,” said I, “it is useful that when we dispute with the Gentiles, we should not be unacquainted with these things.”  Then said Niceta:  “If my lord Peter permits me, I can do as you ask me.”  Then said Peter:  “To-day I have given you leave to speak in opposition to the Gentiles, as you know.”  And Niceta said:  “Tell me then, Clement, what you would have me speak about.”  And I said to him:  “Inform us how the Gentiles represent matters concerning the supper of the gods, which they had at the marriage of Peleus and Thetis.⁸⁷⁵⁸⁷⁵    [Comp. Homily VI. 2, 14, 15, on the supper of the gods.—R.]  What do 203they make of the shepherd Paris, and what of less Juno, Minerva, and Venus, between whom he acted as judge?  What of Mercury? and what of the apple, and the other things which follow in order?”