Part 15 (2/2)

CLXIII

Piety toward the G.o.ds, to be sure, consists chiefly in thinking rightly concerning them--that they are, and that they govern the Universe with goodness and justice; and that thou thyself art appointed to obey them, and to submit under all circ.u.mstances that arise; acquiescing cheerfully in whatever may happen, sure it is brought to pa.s.s and accomplished by the most Perfect Understanding. Thus thou wilt never find fault with the G.o.ds, nor charge them with neglecting thee.

CLXIV

Lose no time in setting before you a certain stamp of character and behaviour both when by yourself and in company with others. Let silence be your general rule; or say only what is necessary and in few words. We shall, however, when occasion demands, enter into discourse sparingly.

avoiding common topics as gladiators, horse-races, athletes; and the perpetual talk about food and drink. Above all avoid speaking of persons, either in way of praise or blame, or comparison.

If you can, win over the conversation of your company to what it should be by your own. But if you find yourself cut off without escape among strangers and aliens, be silent.

CLXV

Laughter should not be much, nor frequent, nor unrestrained.

CLXVI

Refuse altogether to take an oath if you can, if not, as far as may be.

CLXVII

Banquets of the unlearned and of them that are without, avoid. But if you have occasion to take part in them, let not your attention be relaxed for a moment, lest you slip after all into evil ways. For you may rest a.s.sured that be a man ever so pure himself, he cannot escape defilement if his a.s.sociates are impure.

CLXVIII

Take what relates to the body as far as the bare use warrants--as meat, drink, raiment, house and servants. But all that makes for show and luxury reject.

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