II The Bed — Its Equipment
Plin. I hope that we yet at times may take it up again in leisure hours, for there is much alleviation in it from more serious studies. I am already weary of studies, meditation, writing. Stretch out my bed.
Epict. In which sleeping-room?
Plin. In the big square room. Take away the reclining cushion out of the corner, and put it in the dining-room. Place over the feather-bed another of wool. See also that the supports of the bed are sufficiently firm.
Epict. What is it that is troubling you? For you don’t lie on one part or other of the frame-work, but in the middle of the bed. It would be more healthy for you if the bed were harder and one which would offer resistance to your body.
Plin. Take the head-pillow away, and instead of it put two cushions, and in this heat I prefer that lightly woven, to the linen, cloth.
Epict. Without bed-covering!
Plin. Yes.
Epict. You will get cold, for the body is exhausted by studies.
Plin. Then put on a light covering.
Epict. These? And no more?
Plin. No. If I feel cold in bed, then I will ask for more clothes. Take away the curtains, for I prefer a mosquito-net for the keeping off of gnats, a net of fine gauze (conopeum).
Epict. I have noticed but few gnats, though of fleas and lice a pretty fair number.