Res Gestae

Observing, therefore, a true distinction between his good qualities and his defects, it will be fitting to set forth his good points first.[*](With this chapter, cf. xiv. 5, 1-4.) He always

maintained the dignity of imperial majesty, and his great and lofty spirit disdained the favour of the populace. He was exceedingly sparing in conferring the higher dignities, with few exceptions allowing no innovations in the way of additions to the administrative offices; and he never let the military lift their heads too high.[*](With erigens cornua, cf. supercilia . . cornua, xx. 1, 2. The horn is a symbol of courage and confidence both in Latin and in Hebrew literature, e.g. Horace, Odes, iii. 21, 18, addis cornua pauperi; Ovid, Ars Amat. i. 239, pauper sumit cornua; Psalms, cxlviii. 14, He exalteth the horn of his people. )