XVI.

These things, dearest Donatus, briefly for the present. For although what you profitably hear delights your patience, indulgent in its goodness, your well-balanced mind, and your assured faith--and nothing is so pleasant to your ears as what is pleasant to you in God,--yet, as we are associated as neighbours, and are likely to talk together frequently, we ought to have some moderation in our conversation; and since this is a holiday rest, and a time of leisure, whatever remains of the day, now that the sun is sloping towards the evening, let us spend it in gladness,nor let even the hour of repast be without heavenly grace. Let the temperate meal resound with psalms; and as your memory is tenacious and your voice musical, undertake thisoffice, as is your wont. You will provide a betterentertainment for your dearest friends, if, whilewe have something spiritual to listen to, the sweetness of religious music charm our ears.