Quote by Samuel Butler
A virtue to be serviceable must, like gold, be alloyed with some commoner, but more durable alloy.
Summary
To be truly valuable, a virtue must be balanced with practicality and practical application. Just as gold, although precious, is too soft to be used alone and must be blended with a more durable metal, a virtue needs to be mixed with qualities that enable it to exist and function effectively in the real world. This quote suggests that virtues are more powerful when combined with realistic elements, allowing them to withstand the challenges of everyday life and make a meaningful impact.