XXXIII.α.Ordain for yourself forthwith a certain principle and outline of conduct which you may observe both when you are alone and among men.
β. And for the most part keep silence, or speak only what is necessary, and in few words.[1] But when occasion shall require us to speak, then we shall speak, but sparingly, and not about any subject at haphazard, nor about gladiators, nor horse-races, nor athletes, nor about things to eat or drink, which one hears talked about everywhere, but especially not about men, as blaming, or praising, or comparing them.
γ. If then you are able, let your discourse draw that of the company towards what is fitting; but if you find yourself apart among strangers, keep silence.
δ. Do not laugh much, nor at many things, nor unrestrainedly.
- ↑ 'Nature has given men one tongue and two ears, in token that we should listen twice as much as we speak.' (Fragment of Epictetus.)
