And still, I do not say
that Timoleon is to be blamed for having received a fine house and
estate; for there is no disgrace in receiving it by such means, though
not to take it is better, and shows almost superhuman virtue, which
cares not to take what is lawfully within its reach. Yet, as the
strongest bodies are those which can equally well support the extremes
of heat and cold, so the noblest minds are those which prosperity does
not render insolent and overbearing, nor ill fortune depress: and here
Aemilius appears more nearly to approach absolute perfection, as, when
in great misfortune and grief for his children, he showed the same
dignity and firmness as after the greatest success. Whereas Timoleon,
though he acted towards his brother as became a noble nature, yet could
not support himself against his sorrow by reason, but was so crushed by
remorse and grief that for twenty years he could not appear or speak in
the public assembly. We ought indeed to shrink from and feel shame at
what is base; but the nature which is over-cautious to avoid blame may
be gentle and kindly, but cannot be great.
* * * * *
LONDON: PRINTED BY WM. CLOWES AND SONS, LIMITED, STAMFORD STREET AND
CHARING CROSS.
***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PLUTARCH'S LIVES, VOLUME I (OF 4)***
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