ercy, he stands unrivalled by any other figure of the pagan
world. Nor did that world produce any other book which, like
his, remains as an unfailing companion to every generation of
the modern age. The charm of these fragmentary meditations
depends greatly on their convincing candour; there is not a
trace of the cant and exaggeration that so taint the
moralisings of lesser men. It depends also on their iron
stoicism; there are here no doubtful comforts, no rosy
illusions. But it depends chiefly on the admirable and lovable
human character which is revealed in them. They were written
in Greek, and were probably jotted down at odd moments under
the most various circumstances. Tradition says that they were
intended for the guidance of his son.

_BOOK I_

The example of my grandfather Verus taught me to be candid and to
control my temper. By the memory of my father's character I learned to
be modest and manly. My mother taught me regard for religion, to be
generous and open-handed, and neither to do an ill turn to anyone nor
even to think of it. She bred me also to a plain and inexpensive way of
living. I owe it to my grandfather that I had not a public education,
but had good masters at home. From my tutor I learned not to identify
myself with popular sporting interests, but to work hard, endure
fatigue, and not to meddle with other people's affairs. Diognetus taught
me to bear freedom and plain dealing in others, and gave me a taste for
philosophy. Rusticus first set me to improve my character, and prevented
me from running after the vanity of the Sophists, and from concerning
myself with rhetorical and poetic conceits, or with the affectations of
a dandy. He taught me to read an author carefully, and gave me a copy of
Epictetus. Apollonius showed me how to give my mind its due freedom, to
disregard everything that was not true and reasonable, and to maintain
an equable temper under the most trying circumstances. Sextus taught me
good humour, to be obliging, and to bear with the ignorant and
thoughtless. From Maximus I learned to command myself, and to put
through business efficiently, without drudging or complaint. From my
adoptive father I learned a smooth and inoffensive temper, and a
greatness proof against vanity and the impressions of pomp and power; I
learned that it was the part of a prince to check flattery, to have his
exchequer well furnished, t