Note 46 — Chapter XIX · THE MORAL SCIENCE OF THE EPICUREANS. GENERAL PRINCIPLES.
Oswald J. (Oswald Joseph) Reichel translation
It is well known that the conduct of Epicurus and his followers was in harmony with these professions. The Epicurean friendship is hardly less celebrated than the Pythagorean.46 There may be an offensive mawkishness and a tendency to mutual admiration apparent in the relations of Epicurus to his friends,47 but of the sincerity of his feelings there can be no doubt. One single expression referring to the property of friends,48 is enough to prove what a high view Epicurus held of friendship; and there is evidence to show that he aimed at a higher improvement of his associates.49