and lastly, the exercise of influence, which old
age will always possess if a rightly spent youth
has preceded (62-64).

(c). The special objection that old men's tempers
spoil their enjoyments is met by the statement
that this is the fault of character, not of age 65

D. Refutation of the fourth charge, that old age is unhappy because it
involves the anticipation of death.

(a). Since the right aim of life is to live not long
but well, death ought not to be dreaded at any
age 66-69


(b). Old men, especially those of learning and culture,
ought not to fear death 70-76
Because, that which is according to nature is
good, and it is natural for old men to die (70-73);
the process of dying is brief and almost painless
(74); even young men and those without learning
often set the example of despising death
(75); and old age, just as the other periods
of life, has finally its season of ripeness and
satiety (76).

(c). Death is probably the gateway to a happy immortality 77-85
Tending towards proof of this are the arguments
stated in Plato; viz. the rapidity of the