Page:Encheiridion of Epictetus - Rolleston 1881.pdf/92

56 UT this above all is the task of Nature—to bind and harmonise together the forces of the phantasms of the Right and of the Useful.

O suppose that we shall render ourselves contemptible in the eyes of others unless we somehow inflict an injury on those who first displayed hostility to us, is the character of most ignoble and thoughtless men. For thus we assert that a man is despised in proportion as he is powerless to do injury. But far rather is he despised according to his inability to do good.

T is better by agreeing with Truth to conquer Opinion, than by agreeing with Opinion to be conquered by Truth.

S the Sun does not wait for prayers and incantations before he rises, but straightway shines forth and is hailed of all, so do not you wait to do good for applause, and noise, and praise, but do