CHAP. XXIV.
In well Ordered Governments, offence and desert are never set one against the other, but he who does well, is rewarded, and he who does otherwise, is punished.
THE merits of Horatius were very great, having by his own single valor and conduct, overcome the Curiatii; after which he committed a most abominable act, in killing his own Sister: which Murther was so hainous in the Eyes of the Romans, that he was brought to a Trial for his life, though his deserts were so fresh and considerable; which at first sight seem ingrateful in the people; but he who examins it strictly, and weighs how necessary and sacred a thing Justice ought to be in every Common-wealth, will find them more blameable for discharging, than they would have been for condemning him; and the reason is, because in a well constituted State no man's good actions should indemnisie him for doing ill; for punishment being as due to ill actions, as rewards are to good, having rewarded in a man for doing well, he is satisfied for what he did, and the obligation dischar∣ged; so as if afterwards he commits a Crime, he is to be punished severely according to the Nature of his offence; by the observation of which Orders, a City may continue free a long time, which otherwise will quickly go to ruine. For if a Citizen having perform'd any great Exploit for his Country, should expect not only honor and reward for what he has done, but priviledge, and impunity for any mischief he should do afterwards, his insolence would in a short time grow insupportable, and inconsistent with Civil Government. So