Nigrinus

Lucian of Samosata

The Works of Lucian of Samosata, Vol. 1. Fowler, H. W. and Fowler, F.G., translators. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1905.

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?

Lucian ’Tis the work of Fortune.

Friend Of Fortune!

v.1.p.12

Lucian As an incidental result of my journey, you see in me a happy man; ‘thrice-blest,’ as the tragedians have it.

Friend Dear me. What, in this short time?

Lucian Even so.

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.

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?