An excellent man, like precious metal, is in every way invariable; A villain, like the beams of a balance, is always varying, upwards and downwards, himself his own dungeon.

Summary

This quote suggests that individuals of high moral character, depicted as "excellent men," are consistent and unwavering, much like precious metals that retain their value and qualities. Conversely, villains are portrayed as constantly changing, resembling the fluctuating scales of a balance. Their unpredictable nature is their own trap, as they are confined within their continuously shifting character and behavior. Essentially, the quote highlights the contrast between the stability and reliability of virtuous individuals and the inherent instabilities and self-destructive tendencies of immoral individuals.

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