II Maccabees 2:31

31 But to use brevity, and avoid much labouring of the work, is to be granted to him that will make an abridgment.

II Maccabees 2:31 In-Context

29 For as the master builder of a new house must care for the whole building; but he that undertaketh to set it out, and paint it, must seek out fit things for the adorning thereof: even so I think it is with us.
30 To stand upon every point, and go over things at large, and to be curious in particulars, belongeth to the first author of the story:
31 But to use brevity, and avoid much labouring of the work, is to be granted to him that will make an abridgment.
32 Here then will we begin the story: only adding thus much to that which hath been said, that it is a foolish thing to make a long prologue, and to be short in the story itself.

The Brenton translation of the Septuagint is in the public domain.