Vain Glory
Theory of Moral Sentiments
Adam Smith
Amidst all the gaudy pomp of the most ostentatious greatness
amidst the venal and vile adulation of the great and the learned
amidst the foolish acclamation of the ordinary people
amidst the pride of conquest and war
he is still secretly pursued by the avenging furies of shame and remorse
Even the great caesar , who could at an instant dismiss his enemies
could not dismiss his suspicions!
And he felt : " I have lived long enough for nature and Glory. I am contented to die"
Certainly, he had lived too long for real glory - one that stems from the happiness in the love and esteem of his equals!
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