Euphrates Of Alexandria

, a stoic philosopher, who flourished in the second century, was a friend of Dio and of Apollonius Tyanseus, who introduced him to Vespasian. Although a violent quarrel arose between the latter philosopher and Euphrates, in consequence of which Philostratus, the panegyrist of the former, inveighs with great severity against the latter, it appears from the testimony of Epictetus, Pliny the younger, and Eusebius, that Euphrates was v universally esteemed for his talents and virtues, and that the censures of Philostratus deserve only contempt. Pliny’s character of him is highly interesting. “If ever,” says he, " polite learning flourished at Rome, it certainly does at present. Of this I could give you many instances; but I will content myself with naming only Euphrates the philosopher. When in my youth I served in the army in Syria, I had an opportunity of conversing familiarly with this excellent man, and took some pains to gain his affection, though that indeed - was not difficult for he is exceedingly open to access, and full of that gentleness of manner which he teaches. Euphrates is possessed of shining talents, which cannot fail to interest even the unlearned. He discourses with great accuracy, dignity, and elegance; and frequently rises into the sublimity and luxuriance of Plato himself. His style is copious and diversified, and so wonderfully sweet as to captivate even the most reluctant auditor. Add to all this, his graceful form, comely aspect, long hair, and large white beard; circumstances which, though they may probably be thought trifling and accidental, contribute, however, to procure him much reverence. There is no | disgusting negligence in his dress; his countenance is grave, but not austere; his approach commands respect, without exciting awe. With the strictest sanctity, he unites the most perfect politeness of manner. He inveighs against vice, not against men; and, without chastising, reclaims the offender. You listen with 6xed attention to his exhortations, and even when convinced, still hang with eagerness upon his lips. In conformity to the principles of the stoic philosophy, Euphrates, when he found his strength worn out by disease and old age, voluntarily put a period to his life by drinking hemlock, having first, for some unknown reason, obtained permission from the emperor Adrian. ¹