ABSTRACT
T HE relation of mankind and virtue is like the effect produced by the wind upon the grasses of the field. When the wind blows we see the grasses bending their
heads. Men do not oppose the truly virtuous man, they seek rather to gain his friendship, and they defer to him as much as possible. Because virtue will make us worthy citizens we cultivate it, seek to increase our share of it, study it, and endeavour to fully realise it in our lives. All regard the possession of virtue as an ideal which they seek to attain. Although the august virtues of our Imperial Ancestors are beyond our comprehension they are none the less responsible for that flourishing condition which the Empire has exhibited from its foundation, they are responsible for that perfection of learning and culture whereby the national life is enabled to rest in a glorious tranquillity which resembles the bosom of the ocean in spring. It is due to their influence that great and small alike are characterised by the virtues of benevolence and obedience. It is due to them that the voice of envy is absent from our land.
