Quote#Wisdom
If you happen into company where the talk runs into party, obscemty,…
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)
If you happen into company where the talk runs into party, obscemty, scandal, folly, or vice of any kind, you had better pass for morose or unsocial, among people whose good opinion is not worth having, than shock your own conscience by joining in conversation which you must disapprove of.
— James Burgh
More from James Burgh
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.
Praise your friends, and let your friends praise you.
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.
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.
If you give a jest, take one. Let all your jokes be truly jokes. Jesting sometimes ends in sad earnest.