181 Though virtuous words his lips speak not, and all his deeds are ill, If neighbour he defame not, there 's good within him still.

182 Than he who virtue scorns, and evil deeds performs, more vile Is he that slanders friend, then meets him with false smile.

183 'Tis greater gain of virtuous good for man to die Than live to slander absent friend, and falsely praise when nigh.

184 In presence though unkindly words you speak, say not In absence words whose ill result exceeds your thought.

185 The slanderous meanness that an absent friend defames, 'This man in words owns virtue, not in heart,' proclaims.

186 Who on his neighbours' sins delights to dwell, The story of his sins, culled out with care, the world will tell.

187 With friendly art who know not pleasant words to say, Speak words that sever hearts, and drive choice friends away.

188 Whose nature bids them faults of closest friends proclaim, What mercy will they show to other men's good name?

189 'Tis charity, I ween, that makes the earth sustain their load Who, neighbours' absence watching, tales of slander tell abroad.

190 If each his own, as neighbours' faults would scan, Could any evil hap to living man?