Page:All the works of Epictetus - which are now extant; consisting of his Discourses, preserved by Arrian, in four books, the Enchiridion, and fragments (IA allworksofepicte00epic).pdf/454

402 sult the Oracle, whether we shall share it with them, or not. For though the Diviner should forewarn you, that the Victims are unfavourable, this means no more, than that either Death, or Mutilation, or Exile, is portended. But we have Reason within us: and it directs, even with these Hazards, to stand by our Friend and our Country. Attend therefore to the greater Diviner, the Pythian God, who cast out of the Temple, the Person who gave no Assistance to his Friend, while another was murdering him.

prescribe some Character and Form [of Behaviour] to yourself, which you may preserve, both alone, and in Company.

Be for the most part silent: or speak merely what is necessary, and in few Words. We may however enter, though sparingly, into Discourse some-times, when Occasion calls for it: but not on any of the common Subjects, of Gladiators, or Horse Races, or athletic Champions, or Feasts; the vulgar Topics of Conversation: but principally not of Men, so as either to blame, or praise, or make Comparisons. If you are able then, by your own Conversation, bring over that of your Company to proper Subjects: but, if you happen to be taken among Strangers, be silent.

Let not your Laughter be much, nor on many Occasions, nor profuse.

Avoid Swearing, if possible, altogether; if not, as far as you are able.

Avoid public and vulgar Entertainments: but, if ever an Occasion calls you to them, keep your Attention upon the Stretch, that you may not imperceptibly slide into vulgar Manners. For be assured, that if a Person be ever so found himself, yet, if his Companion be infected, he who converses with him will be infected likewise. Rh