Put away your books and face the matter itself. Your breath is but a little air pumped in and out. But the third part is your mind. Here make a stand. Consider that you are an old man, and do not let this noble part of you languish in slavery any longer.
Providence shines clearly through the work of the gods.
Let these reflections satisfy you, and make them your rule to live by. As for books, cease to be eager for them, that you may die in good humour heartily thanking the gods for what you have had. Have neither insincerity nor self-love. Man has to gain but few points in order to live a happy and godlike life. Living and dying, honour and infamy.