 
 
 
In many respects, Demonicus,
we shall find that much disparity exists between
the principles of good men
and the notions of the base;
but most of all by far have they parted company
in the quality of their friendships.
The base honor their friends only when they are present;
the good cherish theirs even when they are far away;
and while the intimacies of the base
a short time is enough to break up,
the friendships of good men
not all eternity can blot out.
Since I deem it fitting that those who strive
for distinction and are ambitious for education
should emulate the good and not the bad,
I have dispatched to you this discourse as a gift,
in proof of my good will toward you and
in token of my friendship for Hipponicus;
for it is fitting that a son,
like with the estate,
in like manner should inherit his father's friendships.
I see, moreover, that fortune is on our side
and the present circumstances are in league with us;
for you are eager for education
and I profess to educate;
And you are ripe for philosophy
while I direct students of philosophy.
Now those addressing their friends
by composing hortatory speeches,
are, no doubt, engaged in a laudable employment;
yet, they do not occupy themselves with the most vital part of philosophy.
