In a similar manner, also, the particulars respecting a country subsist. For as to the quality of it, it is evident that everyone will praise the country which is most sufficient to itself; and this is necessarily one that is all-fruitful. For that which possesses all things, and is in want of nothing, is sufficient to itself. But it should be so great in multitude and magnitude as may enable the inhabitants to live at leisure, with liberty and temperance. Whether, however, this boundary has been well-assigned by us or not, we shall hereafter more accurately consider, when it happens that we make mention of property, and how an abundance of it ought to subsist with respect to the use of it. For this subject is attended with many doubts, in consequence of some persons drawing the excess of life to parsimony, and others to luxury. But with respect to the form of the country, it is not difficult to determine what it ought to be; and in some things pertaining to it, we ought to be persuaded by those who are skilful in military affairs. For it should be difficult of access to enemies, but easy to the inhabitants. Farther still, as we have said that the number of the inhabitants ought to be such as may be easily ascertained, so likewise it should be with the country, in order that it may be easily defended. But with respect to the position of the city, if it is requisite that it should be conformable to the wish, it is fit that it should be well situated near the sea. And with respect to the situation of the country, one limit of it has been already mentioned; for it ought to be so situated as to be able to give assistance in common to all places; but the remaining limit is that it should be adapted to the importation of fruits, and also of wood, or any other materials which may happen to be in the country.
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