To Lampetius. (355/56)
You should have suffered no blow to your household. But since this was the will of those who govern human affairs, you do well to bear the misfortune with composure.
As for this Meterius, among us he had some pleasure but mostly serious pursuits — the former in feasting with us, the latter in the company of those engaged in public affairs, who indeed often delayed his return.
He deserves praise for these things and should not be envied on their account. Surely among you too the elders do not look down on horse races — for it is better for me to put it that way than to say all that I might.
So if his father is of a mind to find no fault, praise his judgment. But if he thinks he must rebuke, change his mind.
You should have suffered no blow to your household. But since this was the will of those who govern human affairs, you do well to bear the misfortune with composure.
As for this Meterius, among us he had some pleasure but mostly serious pursuits — the former in feasting with us, the latter in the company of those engaged in public affairs, who indeed often delayed his return.
He deserves praise for these things and should not be envied on their account. Surely among you too the elders do not look down on horse races — for it is better for me to put it that way than to say all that I might.
So if his father is of a mind to find no fault, praise his judgment. But if he thinks he must rebuke, change his mind.
Modern English rendering for readability. See the 19th-century translation or original Latin/Greek for scholarly use.