If you are bent on assuming a pose and never reveal yourself to anyone frankly, in the fashion of many who live a false life that is all made up for show; for it is torturous to be constantly watching oneself and be fearful of being caught out of our usual role. And we are never free from concern if we think that every time anyone looks at us he is always taking-our measure; for many things happen that strip off our pretence against our will, and, though all this attention to self is successful, yet the life of those who live under a mask cannot be happy and without anxiety.

Be not too hasty either with praise or blame; speak always as though you were giving evidence before the judgement-seat of the Gods.

One who's our friend is fond of us; one who's fond of us isn't necessarily our friend.

That which is given with pride and ostentation is rather an ambition than a bounty.

The way is long if one follows precepts, but short... if one follows patterns.

Nothing is more disgraceful than that an old man should have nothing to show to prove that he has lived long, except his years.

Light cares cry out; the great ones still are dumb.