“Be satisfied, and pleased with what thou art, Act cheerfully and well thou allotted part; Enjoy the present hour, be thankful for the past, And neither fear, nor wish, the approaches of the last.”

To have nothing is not poverty.

If your slave commits a fault, do not smash his teeth with your fists; give him some of the (hard) biscuit which famous Rhodes has sent you.

I would not miss your face, your neck, your hands, your limbs, your bosom and certain other of your charms. Indeed, not to become boring by naming them all, I could do without you, Chloe, altogether.

A fisherman’s walk: three steps and overboard.

It is not he who forms idols in gold or marble that makes them gods, but he who kneels before them.

Life’s not just about being alive, but being well.

Whoever makes great presents, expects great presents in return.

The flaw which is hidden is deemed greater than it is.

While an ant was wandering under the shade of the tree of Phaeton, a drop of amber enveloped the tiny insect; thus she, who in life was disregarded, became precious by death.

They let out on hire their passions and eloquence. [Referring to lawyers.]

Wish to be what you are, and wish for no other position.

Virtue extends our days: he lives two lives who relives his past with pleasure.

Service cannot be expected from a friend in service; let him be a freeman who wishes to be my master.

Life consists not merely in existing, but in enjoying health.

It is folly to waste labour about trifles.

You give me nothing during your life, but you promise to provide for me at your death. If you are not a fool, you know what I wish for!