R — Retired to Retribution (Part 6 of 6)

Retribution
(Ret`ri*bu"tion) n. [L. retributio: cf. F. rétribution.]

1. The act of retributing; repayment.

In good offices and due retributions, we may not be pinching and niggardly.

2. That which is given in repayment or compensation; return suitable to the merits or deserts of, as an action; commonly, condign punishment for evil or wrong.

All who have their reward on earth, . . .
Naught seeking but the praise of men, here find
Fit retribution, empty as their deeds.

3. Specifically, reward and punishment, as distributed at the general judgment.

It is a strong argument for a state of retribution hereafter, that in this world virtuous persons are very often unfortunate, and vicious persons prosperous.

Syn. — Repayment; requital; recompense; payment; retaliation.