160. It is also
right Cic. de
Off. I. 15, § 47. that more regard should be paid to him
who has conferred some benefit or gift upon thee, if he ever is reduced
to want. For what is so contrary to one’s duty as not to
return what one has received? Nor do I think that a return of
equal value should be made, but a greater. One ought to make up
for the enjoyment of a kindness one has received from another, to such
an extent as to help that person, even to putting an end to his
needs. For not to be the better in returning than in conferring a
kindness, is to be the inferior; for he who was the first to give was
the first in point of time, and also first in showing a kind
disposition.