EPISTLE XXV. A wise and a good man is proof against all

PAGE

accidents. Of fate,

358

XXVI. All things are produced of cause and matter

A brave man is a match for Fortune,

361

XVII. Some traditions of the Ancients concerning

Postscript

thunder and lightning; with the Author's con

templations thereupon,

364

XXVIII. A contemplation of heaven and heavenly
things. Of God and of the soul,

367

372

EPISTLES.

PAGE

276

EPISTLE I. Certain general directions for the government of the voice; as in speaking soft or loud; quick or slow. The speech is the index of the mind II. Of styles, compositions, and the choice of words. That is the best way of writing and speaking which is free and natural. Advice concerning reading, 278 III. Against all sorts of affectation in discourse:

fantastical studies; impertinent and unprofitable
subtleties. Man's business is virtue, not words, 282
IV. Business, and want of news, are no excuse among
friends for not writing. Wise men are the better
for one another. How far wisdom may be ad-
vanced by precept,

V. Seneca gives an account of himself, his studies,
and of his inclinations: with many excellent re-
flections upon the duties and the errors of human
life,

VI. The blessings of a virtuous retirement. How we
come to the knowledge of virtue. A distinction
between good and honest. A wise man contents
himself with his lot,

VII. Of impertinent studies, and impertinent men.
Philosophers the best companions,
VIII. Against singularity of manners and behavior,
IX. The blessings of a vigorous mind in a decayed
body. With some pertinent reflections of Seneca
upon his own age,

286

291

297

302

304

306

X. Custom is a great matter either in good or ill. We
should check our passions betimes. Involuntary
motions are invincible,

309

XI. We are divided in ourselves; and confound good

and evil,

312.