Washington and Caesar

I will plainly set before you, things as they really are; and shew you in what manner the Gods think proper to dispose of them. Know therefore, young Man! — these wise Governors of the universe have decreed, that nothing great, nothing excellent, shall be obtained without Care and Labour: They give no real Good, no true Happiness on other terms…If to be honoured and respected of the Republic be your Aim, — shew your Fellow-Citizens how effectually you can serve them: but if it is your ambition that all Greece shall esteem you, — let all Greece share the benefits arising from your labors…And if your design is to advance yourself by Arms;-if you wish the power of defending your friends, and subduing your enemies; learn the art of war under those who are well acquainted with it; and when learnt, employ it to the best advantage.

VIRTUE’S ADDRESS TO HERCULES, FROM XENOPHON’S MEMOIRS OF SOCRATES, AS TRANSLATED BY SARAH FIELDING, 1762