Note 740 — BOOK II. (continued 3)
Reading edition
These words of Sir Thomas More probably suggested to Shakespeare that proverbial reflection in Hen. VIII. act iv. sc. 2.
"Men's evill manners live in brass: their virtues We write in water."
Shakesp. in his play of Rich. III. follows More's Hist. of that reign, and therefore could not but see this passage.