On no occasion call yourself a philosopher, and do not speak much among
the uninstructed about theorems (philosophical rules, precepts); but do
that which follows from them. For example, at a banquet do not say how
a man ought to eat, but eat as you ought to eat. For remember that in
this way Socrates also altogether avoided ostentation. Persons used to
come to him and ask to be recommended by him to philosophers, and he
used to take them to philosophers, so easily did he submit to being
overlooked. Accordingly, if any conversation should arise among
uninstructed persons about any theorem, generally be silent; for there
is great danger that you will immediately vomit up what you have not
digested. And when a man shall say to you that you know nothing, and
you are not vexed, then be sure that you have begun the work (of
philosophy). For even sheep do not vomit up their grass and show to the
shepherds how much they have eaten; but when they have internally
digested the pasture, they produce externally wool and milk. Do you
also show not your theorems to the uninstructed, but show the acts
which come from their digestion.