Cicero: “We must by no means abjure virtue, which secures us affection.”

In the matter of a promise one must always consider the meaning and not the mere words.

Such acts of generosity are not to be so highly esteemed as those which are performed with judgment, deliberation, and mature consideration.

Not only must we show consideration for those whom we have conquered by force of arms but we must also ensure protection to those who lay down their arms and throw themselves upon the mercy of our generals, even though the battering-ram…

But for the most part, people are led to wrong-doing in order to secure some personal end; in this vice, avarice is generally the controlling motive.