From my adoptive father I learned not to get caught up in the chariot racing teams at the circus—the Greens and Blues. And not to take sides with gladiator types in the arena, like the small-shield fighters or the chasers. I learned to work hard and need little. When something needs doing, do it myself instead of through others. Don't get involved in too many projects. Don't listen to gossip.
Of him that brought me up, not to be fondly addicted to either of the two great factions of the coursers in the circus, called Prasini, and Veneti: nor in the amphitheatre partially to favour any of the gladiators, or fencers, as either the Parmularii, or the Secutores. Moreover, to endure labour; nor to need many things; when I have anything to do, to do it myself rather than by others; not to meddle with many businesses; and not easily to admit of any slander.