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Lucian to Nigrinus. Health.
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There is a proverb about carrying ‘owls to Athens’—an absurd undertaking, considering the excellent supply already on the spot. Had it been my intention, in presenting Nigrinus with a volume of my composition, to indulge him of all people with a display of literary skill, I should indeed have been an arrant ‘owl-fancier in Athens.’ As however my object is merely to communicate to you my present sentiments, and the profound impression produced upon me by your eloquence, I may fairly plead Not Guilty, even to the charge of Thucydides, that ‘Men are bold from ignorance, where mature consideration would render them cautious.’ For I need not say that devotion to my subject is partly responsible for my present hardihood; it is not all the work of ignorance. Farewell.
Lucian. A Friend
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Friend What a haughty and dignified Lucian returns to us from his journey! He will not vouchsafe us a glance; he stands aloof, and will hold no further communion with us. Altogether a supercilious Lucian! The change is sudden. Might one inquire the cause of this altered demeanour?
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Lucian ’Tis the work of Fortune.
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Friend Of Fortune!
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Lucian As an incidental result of my journey, you see in me a happy man; ‘thrice-blest,’ as the tragedians have it.
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Friend Dear me. What, in this short time?
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Lucian Even so.
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Friend But what does it all mean? What is the secret of your elation? I decline to rejoice with you in this abridged fashion; I must have details. Tell me all about it.
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Lucian What should you think, if I told you that I had exchanged servitude for freedom; poverty for true wealth; folly and presumption for good sense?
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Friend Extraordinary! But I am not quite clear of your meaning yet.
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Lucian Why, I went off to Rome to see an oculist—my eyes had been getting worse—
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Friend Yes, I know about that. I have been hoping that you would light on a good man.
