Page:Plutarch - Moralia, translator Holland, 1911.djvu/422

400 Also:

Likewise:

Moreover, it is said that of famous and renowned men, devout Æolus, and best beloved of the gods, dwelt in one isle; the most prudent and wise Ulysses in another; Ajax likewise, that right valiant and hardy warrior, and Alcinous, the most courteous prince for hospitality and entertainment of strangers, were islanders. Zeno the philosopher, when news was brought unto him that the ship of his which remained alone of all the rest was drowned in the sea with all the freight and merchandise therein: Thou hast done well, O fortune (quoth he), to drive us to our studying gown and philosopher's life again; even so, in mine opinion, there is no reason that a man (unless he be very much besotted and transported with the vain wind of popularity), when he is confined and enclosed within an island, should complain of fortune therefore, but rather praise her, for that she hath rid him of much anguish of spirit and trouble of his head, delivered him from tedious travel and wandering pilgrimages up and down in the world from place to place; freed him from the perils of sea, removed him from the tumultuous stirs of the multitude in judicial courts and public assemblies of the city; and reduced him to a settled and staid life, full of rest and tranquillity, not distracted with any superfluous and needless occupations, wherein he may live indeed properly to himself, being ranged within the centre and circumference of those things which are required only for necessity. For what island is there which hath not housen, walking places, stouphs and bains, or that is without fishes or hares, if a man be disposed to pass the time in fishing or hunting; and that which is the greatest matter of all, you may oftentimes there enjoy fully your rest and repose, which other do so much thirst and hunger after; for whereas when we are haply playing at dice, or otherwise keeping close at home, there will be some of these sycophants or busy priers and curious searchers into all our actions, ready to draw us out of our houses of pleasure in the suburbs, or out of our delightsome gardens, to make our apparence judicially in