Page:The Emperor Marcus Antoninus - His Conversation with Himself.djvu/188

 8 ly as it rises, without Drudging and Complaint. By observing the practice of this Maximus I came to understand, a Man might manage himself so as to satisfie the World, that there was nothing but Truth, Sincerity, and Fair play, in his Words and Actions : Attain that Greatness of Mind, as not to Admire, or Start at any Thing. Neither to Hurry an Enterprise, nor Sleep over it. Never to be puzled, dispirited, or lye Grinning at a Disgust, or Disappointment. His way was to be neither Passionate, nor over-suspicious. Forward to do a good Turn, and to forgive an ill One. In short. He seem'd to be always in the possession of Virtue, and to have nothing which stood in need of Correction : And which is very remarkable. No Body ever fancied they were slighted by him; or had the Courage to think themselves his Betters; And to conclude with him, another part of his Philosophy was, not to be taken with Raillery and Jesting. XVI. In my Father's Conversation and Management I observ'd a smooth and inoffensive Temper; with great steadiness in keeping close to Measures judiciously taken: A Greatness proof against Vanity, and the Impressions of Pomp, and Power. From him a Prince might learn to love Business and Action, and be constantly at it. Rh