To Demonicus

First of all, then, show devotion to the gods,[*](Cf. Theognis 171 qeoi=s eu)xeu, qeoi=s e)stin e)/pi kra/tos.) not merely by doing sacrifice, but also by keeping your vows; for the former is but evidence of a material prosperity, whereas the latter is proof of a noble character. Do honor to the divine power at all times, but especially on occasions of public worship; for thus you will have the reputation both of sacrificing to the gods and of abiding by the laws.

Conduct yourself toward your parents as you would have your children conduct themselves toward you.[*](Isocrates anticipates the golden rule.Cf. Isoc. 3.61; Isoc. 2.24, 38; Isoc. 4.81.) Train your body, not by the exercises which conduce to strength, but by those which conduce to health. In this you will succeed if you cease your exertions while you still have energy to exert yourself.

Be not fond of violent mirth, nor harbor presumption of speech; for the one is folly, the other madness.[*](Cf. Lord Chesterfield, Letters , 144: “Frequent and loud laughter is characteristic of folly and ill manners.”) Whatever is shameful to do you must not consider it honorable even to mention. Accustom yourself to be, not of a stern, but of a thoughtful, mien; for through the former you will be thought self-willed, through the latter, intelligent. Consider that no adornment so becomes you as modesty, justice, and self-control; for these are the virtues by which, as all men are agreed, the character of the young is held in restraint.

Never hope to conceal any shameful thing which you have done; for even if you do conceal it from others, your own heart will know. Fear the gods, honor your parents, respect your friends, obey the laws. Pursue the enjoyments which are of good repute; for pleasure attended by honor is the best thing in the world, but pleasure without honor is the worst.[*](Cf. Isoc. 1.46)