To Florus 4.28

Even if we pretend that this is uncertain, the thickest cloud of doubt will immediately envelop you. For this phrase, “desire of the flesh,” contains absolutely no indication of the reproductive organs. I can therefore say that this expression strikes at ears thirsting for different songs; I can say that Saint John rebukes the glutton’s palate; I can say that he blames nostrils dying for perfumes. In short, I can say anything except what you suppose. The choice is open when no specific word imposes a restriction. Either deny, then, that people desire the things I have named, and contradict everyone’s awareness, as you usually do; or, if your shamelessness has not yet hardened enough to resist these facts, admit that a condemnation of sexual pleasure is not found even in the words.