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/57

RV 5 (Chap. 1.) they daily to write; and in these to exercise themselves.

§. 7. Thraseas used to say, "I had rather be killed To-day, than banished To-morrow." But how did Rufus answer him? "If you prefer it as a heavier Misfortune, how foolish a Preference! If as a lighter, who has put it in your Power? Why do not you study to be contented with what is allotted you?"

§. 8. Well, and what said Agrippinus, upon this Account? "I will not be a Hindrance to myself." Word was brought him, "Your Cause is trying in the Senate."—"Good Luck attend it.—But it is Eleven o'Clock" (the Hour when he used to exercise before bathing): "Let us go to our Exercise." When it was over, a Messenger tells him, "You are condemned." To Banishment, says he, or Death? "To Banishment."—What of my Estate?—"It is not taken away." Well then, let us go as far as Aricia, and dine there.

§. 9. This it is to have studied what ought