But man is created to be the plaything of the Gods; and therefore the aim of every one should be to pass through life, not in grim earnest, but playing at the noblest of pastimes, in another spirit from that which now prevails.

For the common opinion is, that work is for the sake of play, war of peace; whereas in war there is neither amusement nor instruction worth speaking of.

The life of peace is that which men should chiefly desire to lengthen out and improve.

They should live sacrificing, singing, and dancing, with the view of propitiating Gods and heroes.

I have already told you the types of song and dance which they should follow: and 'Some things,' as the poet well says, 'you will devise for yourself--others, God will suggest to you.' These words of his may be applied to our pupils.