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[63]
Now I observe that Hecaton of Rhodes, a pupil of
Panaetius, says in his books on “Moral Duty”
dedicated to Quintus Tubero that “it is a wise
man's duty to take care of his private interests, at1
the same time doing nothing contrary to the civil
customs, laws, and institutions. But that depends
on our purpose in seeking prosperity; for we do not
aim to be rich for ourselves alone but for our children, relatives, friends, and, above all, for our country.
For the private fortunes of individuals are the wealth
of the state.” Hecaton could not for a moment
approve of Scaevola's act, which I cited a moment
ago; for he openly avows that he will abstain from
doing for his own profit only what the law expressly
forbids. Such a man deserves no great praise nor
gratitude.
1 The standard of selfishness.
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