77
For we exhort young men to the study of philosophyCf. Vol. I, Introd. pp. xxvi and xxvii for the “philosophy” of Isocrates. by praising others in order that they, emulating those who are eulogized, may desire to adopt the same pursuits, but I appeal to you and yours, using as examples not aliens, but members of your own family, and I counsel you to devote your attention to this, that you may not be surpassed in either word or deed by any of the Hellenes
78
And do not imagine that I am reproaching you for indifference at present, because I often admonish you on the same subject.See Isocrates, Vol. I, p. 39, L.C.L., Introd. to the discourse To Nicocles, Isoc. 2. For it has not escaped the notice of either me or anyone else that you, Nicocles, are the first and the only one of those who possess royal power, wealth, and luxury who has undertaken to pursue the study of philosophy, nor that you will cause many kings, emulating your culture, to desire these studies and to abandon the pursuits in which they now take too great pleasure.
79
Although I am aware of these things, none the less I am acting, and shall continue to act, in the same fashion as spectators at the athletic games: for they do not shout encouragement to the runners who have been distanced in the race, but to those who still strive for the victory.
