13.13
Moreover, the very attempt makes them better in many ways and wiser; and we will give the reason. Unless they abound in labours and inventions and precautions, they cannot capture game.
13.14
For the forces contending with them, fighting for their life and in their own home, are in great strength; so that the huntsman’s labours are in vain, unless by greater perseverance and by much intelligence he can overcome them.
13.15
In fine, the politician whose objects are selfish practises for victory over friends, the huntsman for victory over common foes. This practice makes the one a better, the other a far worse fighter against all other enemies. The one takes prudence with him for companion in the chase, the other base rashness.
13.16
The one can despise malice and avarice, the other cannot. The language of the one is gracious,i.e., kindly and pleasant; not reckless and shameless like that of the politicians. of the other ugly. As for religion, nothing checks impiety in the one, the other is conspicuous for his piety.
13.17
In fact, an ancient story has it that the gods delight in this business, both as followers and spectators of the chase. Therefore, reflecting on these things, the young who do what I exhort them to do will put themselves in the way of being dear to the gods and pious men, conscious that one or other of the gods is watching their deeds. These will be good to parents, good to the whole city, to every one of their friends and fellow-citizens.
13.18
For all men who have loved hunting have been good: and not men only, but those women also to whom the goddessArtemis. has given this blessing, Atalanta and Procris and others like them.
