105. I think I have
said enough on the art of speaking. Let us now consider what
beseems an active life. We note that there are three
things Cic. de
Off. I. 39, § 141. to be regarded in connection with this
subject. One is, that passion should not resist our reason.
In that way only can our duties be brought into line with what is
seemly. For if passion yields to reason we can easily maintain
what is seemly in our duties. Next, we must take care lest,
either by showing greater zeal or less than the matter we take up
demands, we look as though we were taking up a small matter with great
parade or were treating a great matter with but little care.
Thirdly, as regards moderation in our endeavours and works, and also
with regard to order in doing things and in the right timing of things,
I think that everything should be open and straightforward.