My library was open to all and I have conformed my conduct to that fine saying of Euripides, "all ought to be common among friends." Those praises that seemed obtrusive when I myself received them became agreeable to me when addressed to Varius or to Macer.

But at bottom I am rustic and uncultivated.

I take pleasure in the society of animals; I was so zealous in observing them and took so much care of them that I was regarded, not altogether wrongly, as a good veterinary surgeon.

I am told that the people of thy sect claim an immortal soul for themselves, but refuse one to the animals.

That is a piece of nonsense that makes me doubt their judgment.