We do not wish for Friends to feed and clothe our bodies,—neighbors are kind enough for that,—but to do the like office to our spirits. For this few are rich enough, however well disposed they may be.
—Henry D. Thoreau
Friendship closes its eye, rather than see the moon eclipst; while malice denies that it is ever at the full.
—J. C. and A. W. Hare
Son, if the lintels of thy house are lofty, and thy friend be sick, say not: What shall I send to him? Go thou rather on foot, and see him with thy eyes; for that is better for him than a thousand talents of gold or Silver.
—Arabian Legend
We must love our friends as true amateurs love paintings: they have their eyes perpetually fixed upon the fine qualities, and see no others.
—Mme. d’Epinay
Nothing is so difficult as to help a Friend in matters which do not require the aid of Friendship, but only a cheap and trivial service, if your Friendship wants the basis of a thorough practical acquaintance.
—Henry D. Thoreau