for men who are truly generous are always ready to compassionate when the misfortune of their enemy surpasses the limits of their hatred.
 Alexandre Dumas, The Count of Monte Cristo (1845). copy citation

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Author Alexandre Dumas
Source The Count of Monte Cristo
Topic misfortune limit
Date 1845
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1184/1184-h/1184-h.htm

Context

“Morcerf was so completely overwhelmed by this great and unexpected calamity that he could scarcely stammer a few words as he looked around on the assembly. This timidity, which might proceed from the astonishment of innocence as well as the shame of guilt, conciliated some in his favor; for men who are truly generous are always ready to compassionate when the misfortune of their enemy surpasses the limits of their hatred. The president put it to the vote, and it was decided that the investigation should take place. The count was asked what time he required to prepare his defence. Morcerf’s courage had revived when he found himself alive after this horrible blow.” source