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SYNOPSIS.
§1. | Introduction, and dedication. |
2. | Old age a part of the order of nature. |
3. | Reasons why old age is complained of. |
4. | The old age of Quintus Fabius Maximus. |
5. | Examples of men who continued their labors in philosophy and literature to a late old age.—The specific charges brought against old age. |
6. | It is alleged that old age incapacitates men from the management of affairs. The contrary shown to be true. |
7. | Memory and the mental faculties are not necessarily impaired by age; but may be preserved in working order if kept in exercise. Proved by examples. |
8. | Old men need not be disagreeable to the young. Nor need they be unemployed and inert. |
9. | Failure of bodily strength in old age not to be regretted. |
10. | There is no need of full bodily strength, if there be an increase of wisdom. |
11. | Failure of strength and of mental vigor may be averted by a proper regimen of body and mind. |
12. | It is complained that old age renders one less susceptible of sensual pleasure; but this is to be regarded as an advantage and a benefit. |
13. | Moderate and sober conviviality may be still enjoyed by those advanced in years. Cato's own example. |