“For he that does good, having the unlimited power to do evil, deserves praise not only for the good which he performs, but for the evil which he forbears.”
A quote from Sir Walter Scott's Ivanhoe, now.
It is after a victorious banquet in the depth of the forest. The parties say farewell to each other, with the Black Knight as the last guest to depart. Before he leaves, he praises Locksley for his conduct, a crime though it is by law, but not by motive. Thus he says our quote this week.
I like the quote. It is true that one who holds power can easily be praised or despised for what he does. Yet Richard praises the Outlaw also for not doing evil things in his power. I admire those who have great self-control over themselves, who restrain from doing things not because they cannot, but because they know that it is wrong.
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What a great quote! I loved your post about de Bracy, too. :)
ReplyDeleteI think so as well. Thanks for reading. :D
DeleteOh that is so true... Great quote, Listra!
ReplyDelete