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The Memorabilia by Xenophon
page 71 of 287 (24%)
idleness, and wearily do they drag through an age of wrinkled
wretchedness: and why? they blush with shame at the thought of deeds
done in the past, and groan for weariness at what is left to do.
During their youth they ran riot through their sweet things, and laid
up for themselves large store of bitterness against the time of eld.
But my companionship is with the gods; and with the good among men my
conversation; no bounteous deed, divine or human, is wrought without
my aid. Therefore am I honoured in Heaven pre-eminently, and upon
earth among men whose right it is to honour me;[38] as a beloved
fellow-worker of all craftsmen; a faithful guardian of house and
lands, whom the owners bless; a kindly helpmeet of servants;[39] a
brave assistant in the labours of peace; an unflinching ally in the
deeds of war; a sharer in all friendships indispensable. To my friends
is given an enjoyment of meats and drinks, which is sweet in itself
and devoid of trouble, in that they can endure until desire ripens,
and sleep more delicious visits them than those who toil not. Yet they
are not pained to part with it; nor for the sake of slumber do they
let slip the performance of their duties. Among my followers the youth
delights in the praises of his elders, and the old man glories in the
honour of the young; with joy they call to memory their deeds of old,
and in to-day's well-doing are well pleased. For my sake they are dear
in the sight of God, beloved of their friends and honoured by the
country of their birth. When the appointed goal is reached they lie
not down in oblivion with dishonour, but bloom afresh--their praise
resounded on the lips of men for ever.[40] Toils like these, O son of
noble parents, Heracles, it is yours to meet with, and having endured,
to enter into the heritage assured you of transcendant happiness.'"

[38] Reading {ois prosekei}, or if {proseko}, translate "to whom I am
attached."
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