La Rochefoucauld.

Back-biting

JULY 9

"Hear as little as you possibly can to the prejudice of others; believe nothing of the kind unless you are forced to believe it; never circulate, nor approve of those who circulate, loose reports; moderate as far as you can the censure of others; always believe that if the other side were heard a very different account would be given of the matter."

Everyday Christian Life, Dean Farrar.

"We must be as courteous to a man as we are to a picture, which we are willing to give the advantage of a good light."

Emerson.

"Refrain your tongue from back-biting; for there is no word so secret that shall go for nought, and the mouth that belieth, slayeth the soul."

Wisdom i. 2.

Gossip