Kitap 10
7.27
For there is scarce a single day in our lives that is so full of occupations that we may not, at some moment or other, snatch a few precious minutes, as Cicero Or. 34. records that Brutus was wont to do, either for writing or reading or speaking; Gaius Carbo, A supporter of Tib. Graccllus, who went over to the senatorial party and was consul 120 B.C. Committed suicide in the following year. Cicero praises his eloquence and industry; p. Brut. 103–5, de Or. I. § 154. for example, was in the habit of indulging in such exercises even in his tent.
7.28
I must also mention the precept (which again has the approval of Cicero There is no trace of this. ) that we should never be careless about our language. Whatever we say, under whatever circumstances, should be perfect in its way. As regards writing, this is certainly never more necessary than when we have frequently to speak extempore. For it maintains the solidity of our speech and gives depth to superficial facility. We may compare the practice of husbandmen who cut away the uppermost roots of their vines, which run close to the surface of the soil, that the taproots may strike deeper and gain in strength.
