> I wonder how much people took this kind of flattery seriously, or if it was done with eyes rolled and tongue in cheek. Probably everyone who wasn't an idiot

> I wonder how much people took this kind of flattery seriously, or if it was done with eyes rolled and tongue in cheek. Probably everyone who wasn't an idiot knew it was kinda silly and the sentiments not genuine, or at least exaggerated, but did it anyway. Cf business English, résumé cover letters, et c.