When Jupiter was assigning the various
gods their privileges, it so happened that Grief was
not present with the rest: but when all had received
their share, he too entered and claimed his due.
Jupiter was at a loss to know what to do, for there
was nothing left for him. However, at last he
decided that to him should belong the tears that are
shed for the dead. Thus it is the same with Grief
as it is with the other gods. The more devoutly
men render to him his due, the more lavish is he of
that which he has to bestow. It is not well,
therefore, to mourn long for the departed; else Grief,
whose sole pleasure is in such mourning, will be quick
to send fresh cause for tears.