Book 4
11
What, then; would anybody have you adorn yourself to the utmost? By no means, except in those things where our nature requires it,—in reason, principles, actions; but in our persons only so far as neatness requires; so far as not to give offence. But if you hear that it is not right to wear purple, you must go, I suppose, and roll your cloak in the mud, or tear it. But how can I have a fine cloak? You have water, man; wash it. What an amiable youth is here! How worthy this old man to love and be loved! A fit person to be trusted with the instruction of our sons and daughters, and attended by young people as occasion may require,—to read them lectures from a dunghill! Every deterioration takes its origin from something human; but this almost dehumanizes a man.
Of taking pains.
