Epictetus, ep-ik-te'tus, a Stoic philosopher of Rome. He flourished during the latter half of the first century A. D. He was banished from Rome during the reign of Trajan. His sayings were taken down by a devoted follower and disciple. Such teachings as have not been lost inculcate the idea of immortality and breathe a calm spirit of resignation and piety not unlike that of the New Testament writers. SAYINGS OF EPICTETUS. Difficulties show what men are. Reason is not measured by size or height, but by principle. Were I a nightingale, I would act the part of a nightingale. Why, then, do you walk as if you had swallowed a ramrod? No great thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. What is the first business of one who studies philosophy? To part with self-conceit. He is unreasonable who is grieved at things which happen from the necessity of nature. Nothing is smaller than love of pleasure and love of gain and pride. Nothing is superior to magnanimity and gentleness and love of mankind and beneficence. What we ought not to do we should not even think of doing. No man is free who is not master of himself. Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress. Do not so much be ashamed of that disgrace which proceeds from men's opinions as fly from that which comes from the truth. No man who loves money and pleasure and fame, also loves mankind, but only he who loves virtue.