The time of trial is the express opportunity for the one to win glory, for the other to perfect his wisdom.

Hence, indeed, virtue gets its name, because, relying on its own efficacy, it yieldeth not to adversity.

And ye who have taken your stand on virtue's steep ascent, it is not for you to be dissolved in delights or enfeebled by pleasure; ye close in conflict--yea, in conflict most sharp--with all fortune's vicissitudes, lest ye suffer foul fortune to overwhelm or fair fortune to corrupt you.

Hold the mean with all your strength.

Whatever falls short of this, or goes beyond, is fraught with scorn of happiness, and misses the reward of toil.