The soldier’s virtue, rather makes choice of loss,
Than gain which darkens him.
I could do more to do Antonius good,
But ’twould offend him; and in his offence
Should my performance perish.
(III. i. 21.)
And not only is Silius convinced; he gives his full approval to Ventidius’ policy:
Thou hast, Ventidius, that
Without the which a soldier, and his sword,
Grants scarce distinction.