j 
XXII. 30.] THE SECOND BOOK. — 237 
of the winds, are not without some prejudice and disad- 
vantage by their moderation. 
31. But for these flourishes and enhancements of virtue, 
as they are not perchance unnecessary, so it is at least 
necessary that virtue be not disvalued and imbased under 
the just price; which is done in three manners: by of- 
fering and obtruding a man’s self; wherein men think he 
is rewarded, when he is accepted; by doing too much, 
which will not give that which is well done leave to settle, 
and in the end induceth satiety; and by finding too soon 
the fruit of a man’s virtue, in commendation, applause, 
honour, favour ; wherein if a man be pleased with a little, 
let him hear what is truly said; Cave ne cnsuetus rebus 
majortbus videarts, st hee te res parva sicuti magna delectat. 
32. But the covering of defects is of no less importance 
than the valuing of good parts; which may be done like- 
wise in three manners, by caution, by colour, and by con- 
fidence. Caution is when men do ingeniously and dis- 
creetly avoid to be put into those things for which they 
are not proper: whereas contrariwise bold and unquiet 
spirits will thrust themselves into matters without differ- 
ence, and so publish and proclaim all their wants. Colour 
is when men make a way for themselves to have a con- 
struction made of their faults or wants, as proceeding 
from a better cause or intended for some other purpose. 
For of the one it is well said, 
Sxpe latet vitium:proximitate boni, 
and therefore whatsoever want a man hath, he must see 
that he pretend the virtue that shadoweth it; as if he 
be dull, he must affect gravity; if a coward, mildness; 
and so the rest. For the second, a man must frame some 
probable cause why he should not do his best, and why 
he should dissemble his abilities; and for that purpose 
