Book I

From my grandfather Verus 1 I learned good morals and the government of my temper.

From the reputation and remembrance of my father, 2 modesty and a manly character.

From my mother, 3 piety and beneficence, and abstinence, not only from evil deeds, but even from evil thoughts; and further, simplicity in my way of living, far removed from the habits of the rich.

From my great-grandfather, 4 not to have frequented public schools, and to have had good teachers at home, and to know that on such things a man should spend liberally.

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