[120] I have chosen to begin with a period rather remote for these reasons: first, because I consider that those who lay claim to superior excellence ought from the very beginning of their race to be distinguished above all others,[116] and, second, because I should be ashamed if, having spoken at undue length of men who, though noble,[117] are nowise akin to me, I should not even briefly mention those of our ancestors who most excellently governed our city,