Page:The Emperor Marcus Antoninus - His Conversation with Himself.djvu/226

 46 IX. Nature was oblig'd to Act in this manner, for her own Convenience.

X. Take notice that all Events turn which upon Merit, and Congruity. Which if you observe nicely, you'l not only perceive a Connexion between Causes and Effects, but a Sovereign Distribution of Justice; which presides in the Administration, and gives every Thing its Due. Go on with this Remark; And let all your Actions answer the Character of a Good Man, I mean a Good Man, in the Strictness, and Notion, of Philosophy.

XI. If a Man Affronts you, don't go into his Opinion, or Think Just as He would have you: No, look upon Things as Reality presents them, and form your Judgment accordingly.

XII. Be always provided with Principles for the following Purposes: First, To engage in nothing but what Reason Dictates, what the Soveraign and Legislative Part of you shall suggest, for the Interest of Mankind. Secondly; To be disposed to quit your Opinion, and alter your Measures, when a Friend shall give you Good Grounds for so doing. But then the Reasons of changing your Mind ought to be drawn from the Considerations of Justice, Publick Good, or some such Generous Motive; And not because it pleases your Fancy, or promotes your Reputation. Rh