[47]
But as to the affection which anyone may have1
for us, it is the first demand of duty that we do
most for him who loves us most; but we should
measure affection, not like youngsters, by the ardour
of its passion, but rather by its strength and constancy. But if there shall be obligations already2
incurred, so that kindness is not to begin with us,
but to be requited, still greater diligence, it seems,
is called for; for no duty is more imperative than
that of proving one's gratitude.
M. Tullius Cicero. De Officiis. With An English Translation. Walter Miller. Cambridge. Harvard University Press; Cambridge, Mass., London, England. 1913.
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