As for nobility in particular persons; it is a rev-
erend thing, to see an ancient castle or building,
not in decay; or to see a fair timber tree, sound and
perfect. How much more, to behold an ancient
noble family, which has stood against the waves
and weathers of time! For new nobility is but the
act of power, but ancient nobility is the act of time.
Those that are first raised to nobility, are com-
monly more virtuous, but less innocent, than their
descendants; for there is rarely any rising, but by
a commixture of good and evil arts. But it is reason,
the memory of their virtues remain to their pos-
terity, and their faults die with themselves. Nobil-
ity of birth commonly abateth industry; and he
that is not industrious, envieth him that is. Besides,
noble persons cannot go much higher; and he that
standeth at a stay, when others rise, can hardly
avoid motions of envy. On the other side, nobil-
ity extinguisheth the passive envy from others,
towards them; because they are in possession of
honor. Certainly, kings that have able men of
their nobility, shall find ease in employing them,
and a better slide into their business; for people
naturally bend to them, as born in some sort to
command.