If a good man discloseth his secret failings unto the view of the profane,
What doeth he but harm unto his brother, confirming him in his sin?
There is a concealment that is right, and an open-mouthed humility that erreth;
There is a candour near akin to folly, and a meekness looking like shame.
Masculine sentiments, vigorously holden, well become a man;
But a weak mind hath a timorous grasp, and mistaketh it for tenderness of conscience.
Many are despised for their folly, who put it to the account of their religion,
And because men treat them with contempt, they look to their God for glory;
But contempt shall still be their reward, who betray their Master unto ridicule,
Reflecting on Him in themselves, meanness and ignorance and cowardice.