Companions I have enough, friends few.
—Pope.
* * * * *
Friendship is steady and peaceful; not much jealousy, and no heartburnings. It strengthens with time, and survives the smallpox and a wooden leg. It doubles our joys, divides our griefs, and warms our lives with a steady flame.
—Reade.
* * * * *
Friendship above all ties doth bind the heart,
And Faith is Friendship in its noblest part.
—Earl of Orrey.
* * * * *
Friendship, peculiar boon of Heaven,
The noble mind's delight and pride,
To men and angels only given,
To all the lower world denied.