Quote#Speech
In mixed company, be readier to hear than to speak, and put people…
Quote byJames Burgh · 1714–1775
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Dignity of Human Nature (1754).
English (original)
In mixed company, be readier to hear than to speak, and put people upon talking of what is in their own way; for then you will both oblige them, and be most likely to improve by their conversation.
— James Burgh
More from James Burgh
Praise your friends, and let your friends praise you.
He who knows the world will not be too bashful. He who knows himself will not be impudent.
Insult not another for his want of a talent you possess: He may have others which you want.
Do not endeavour to shine in all companies. Leave room for your hearers to imagine something within you beyond all you have said. And remember, the more you are praised, the more you will be envied.
If you mean to make your side of the argument appear plausible, do not prejudice the people against what you think truth by your passionate manner of defending it.
If you give a jest, take one. Let all your jokes be truly jokes. Jesting sometimes ends in sad earnest.