The writer says that his object is to impress upon those whom he has ordained the lessons which he had previously taught them. II. 6, § 25. Like Cicero, he treats of that which is right, becoming, or honourable [decorum], and what is expedient [utile]; I. 9, § 28. but with reference not to this life but to that which is to come, teaching in the first book that which is becoming or honourable; in the second, what is expedient; and in the third, considering both in conjunction.