Boethius acknowledges that he is but recollecting truths he once knew. Philosophy goes on to show that it is goodness also by which the whole world is governed (This solves the third. No distinct account is given of the first, but an answer may be gathered from the general argument of bks. ii., iii., and iv.) Boethius professes compunction for his former folly. But the paradox of evil is introduced, and he is once more perplexed.