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Meditations · Marcus Aurelius

XI. From my brother Severus, to be kind and loving to all them

of my house and family; by whom also I came to the knowledge

of Thrasea and Helvidius, and Cato, and Dio, and Brutus.

He it was also that did put me in the first conceit and desire

of an equal commonwealth, administered by justice and equality;

and of a kingdom wherein should be regarded nothing more

than the good and welfare of the subjects. Of him also,

to observe a constant tenor, (not interrupted, with any other

cares and distractions,) in the study and esteem of philosophy:

to be bountiful and liberal in the largest measure; always to

hope the best; and to be confident that my friends love me.

In whom I moreover observed open dealing towards those whom

he reproved at any time, and that his friends might without

all doubt or much observation know what he would, or would not,

so open and plain was he.