Polybius was surprised at the way in which the young man opened the conversation; for he was then not more than eighteen years old.
"For goodness' sake, Scipio," he said, "don't talk in that way, or get any such notion into your head.
I don't, I assure you, do this because I have a low opinion of you or ignore you, but because your brother is your senior. I both begin conversation with him and finish with him, and as for any explanations and advice, I address myself especially to him in the belief that your opinions are the same as his.
However, now I admire you when you say that you are pained to think that you are of a milder character than becomes members of his family; for that shows that you have a high spirit.
I myself would be delighted to do all in my power to help you to speak and act in a way worthy of your ancestors.
For as those studies which I see now occupy and interest you, you will be in no want of those ready to help both of you;
so great is the crowd of such men that I see flocking here from Greece at present.
But as regards what you say now troubles you I don't think you could find anyone more efficient than myself to forward your effort and help you."
Before Polybius ceased speaking, Scipio, grasping his their hand in both his own and pressing it warmly, said: "Would I could see the day on which you, regarding nothing else as of higher importance, would devote your attention to me and join your life with mine;
for then I shall at once feel myself to be worthy of my house and my forefathers."
Polybius was on the one hand very happy to see the enthusiasm and affection of the young man, yet was embarrassed when he reflected on the high position of the family and the wealth of its members.
However, after this mutual explanation the young man never left his side, and preferred his society to anything else.
Walbank Commentary