On the contrary, it is the illustrious grandson who reflects some of his own greatness back upon his grandfather.

If a man therefore fail to attain eminence himself, he always has another chance in his descendants; for he will of necessity be ennobled through the merits of those who succeed him.

Such is the immemorial law of the land.

Fame is retroactive.

This admirable system has only one objection: it is posthumous in its effect.