33
Immediately prescribe some character and some form to yourself, which you shall observe both when you are alone and when you meet with men.
33
And let silence be the general rule, or let only what is necessary be said, and in few words. And rarely and when the occasion calls we shall say something; but about none of the common subjects, not about gladiators, nor horse races, nor about athletes, nor about eating or drinking, which are the usual subjects; and especially not about men, as blaming them or praising them, or comparing them. If then you are able, bring over by your conversation the conversation of your asso- siates to that which is proper; but if you should happen to be confined to the company of strangers, be silent.
33
Let not your laughter be much, nor on many occasions, nor excessive.
33
Refuse altogether to take an oath, if it is possible: if it is not, refuse as far as you are able.
33
Avoid banquets which are given by strangersConvivia cum hominibus extraneis et rudibus, discipline non imbutis is the Latin version. and by ignorant persons. But if ever there is occasion to join in them, let your attention be carefully fixed, that you slip not into the manners of the vulgar (the uninstructed). For you must know, that if your companion be impure, he also who keeps company with him must become impure, though he should happen to be pure.
