10. For this χατόρθωμα, which is duty carried out entirely
and in perfection, starts from the true source of virtue. Cic. de
Off. III. 3, § 13. On this follows another, or
ordinary duty. This shows by its name that no hard or
extraordinary practice of virtue is involved, for it can be
common to very many. The desire to save money is the usual
practice with many. To enjoy a well-prepared banquet and a
pleasant meal is a general habit; but to fast or to use
self-restraint is the practice of but few, and not to be desirous
of another’s goods is a virtue rarely found. On the
other hand, to wish to deprive another of his property—and
not to be content with one’s due—here one will find
many to keep company with one. Those (the philosopher would
say) are primary duties—these ordinary. Cic. de
Off. III. 3, § 14. The primary are found but with
few, the ordinary with the many.