[16]
such as is seen in that god-like man, whom our
fathers saw in their time, Africanus; and in Caius Laelius and Lucius Furius, most virtuous
and moderate men; and in that most excellent man, the most learned man of his time, Marcus
Cato the elder; and all these men, if they had been to derive no assistance from literature in
the cultivation and practice of virtue, would never have applied themselves to the study of
it. Though, even if there were no such great advantage to be reaped from it, and if it were
only pleasure that is sought from these studies, still I imagine you would consider it a most
reasonable and liberal employment of the mind: for other occupations are not suited to every
time, nor to every age or place; but these studies are the food of youth, the delight of old
age; the ornament of prosperity, the refuge and comfort of adversity; a delight at home, and
no hindrance abroad; they are companions by night, and in travel, and in the country.
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