XXIII. 3 o.] 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 insuetus rebus 

 majoribus videaris, si hac te res parva sicuti ??iagna 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, 



Saepe latet vitiuni 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 



