In the presence of fiery temper and enraged passion he says nothing to add fuel to the flame, but keeps calm and self-possessed.
He never retaliates, or gives reviling for reviling, but contrariwise—good for evil, blessing for cursing.
He flatters not any one in any way, but speaks the words of truth and soberness. He is not as the fox in the fable, who commended the singing of the crow when he wanted something that was in his mouth.
He finds out as far as he can what is the particular forte of knowledge held by those with whom he talks, and prudently converses upon it so as to promote mutual edification.
He chooses such words as shall, in the clearest, truest, and most effective way, embody his thoughts and sentiments.
He speaks the truth in everything, everywhere, and to every one, without equivocation, prevarication, or unjust hyperbolism.
He avoids all affectation as a thing of the mountebank or pantomime, and appears himself without a Jezebel’s paint or a Jacob’s clothing, so that you may know at once who he is, what he says, and what he means.
He reverences God and Truth, avoiding as demoniacal all profane swearing, cursing, blasphemy, scoffing, and jeering.
He modulates his voice to suit the company, the subject, and the place where he talks.
He does not interrupt another in his talk, unless it is immoral, but hears him through, that he may the better understand him.