Page:Encheiridion of Epictetus - Rolleston 1881.pdf/68

32 ε. Refuse altogether to take an oath, if possible; if not, then as much as circumstances permit.

ζ. Avoid banquets given by strangers and by the sensual. But if you ever have occasion to go to them, then keep your attention on the stretch that you do not fall into sensuality. For know that if your companion be corrupted, you, who have conversation with him, must needs become corrupted also, even though yourself should chance to be pure.

η. In things that concern the body, such as food, drink, clothing, habitation, servants, you must only accept what is absolutely needful. But all that makes for show or luxury, you must utterly proscribe.

θ. Concerning sexual pleasures, it is right to be pure before marriage, as much as in you lies. But if you do indulge in them, let it be according to what is lawful. But do not in any case make your- self