"For from them he can learn to direct his attention to that third division of our existence, concerning which least is taught in Athens--I mean the future--" "That is in the hands of the gods," replied the Roman.

"It will come soon enough, and I did not discuss it with the anchorite.

Eulaeus may be informed that, on the contrary, everything I learned from that singular man in the Serapeum bore reference to the things of the past." "But how can it be possible," said Eulaeus, "that any one to whom Cleopatra had offered her society should think so long of anything else than the beautiful present ?" "You indeed have good reason," retorted Publius quickly, "to enter the lists in behalf of the present, and never willingly to recall the past." "It was full of anxiety and care," replied Eulaeus with perfect self-possession.

"That my sovereign lady must know from her illustrious mother, and from her own experience; and she will also protect me from the undeserved hatred with which certain powerful enemies seem minded to pursue me.

Permit me, your majesty, not to make my appearance at the banquet until later.