[28]
For there were these principles and there was this greatness of mind
in our ancestors, that while in their private affairs, and as to their own personal expenses,
they lived contented with a little, and without the smallest approach to luxury; where the
empire and the dignity of the state was concerned, they brought everything up to a high pitch
of splendour and magnificence. For in a man's private affairs he desires the credit of
moderation, but in public affairs dignity is the object aimed at. But even if he had a fleet
for the sake of protection, who will be so unjust as to blame it?—“There
were no pirates.” What? who could certify beforehand that there would be none?
“You are taking away,” said he, “from the glory of
Pompeius.”
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M. Tullius Cicero. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge, B. A. London. Henry G. Bohn, York Street, Covent Garden. 1856.
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