The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

414 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [APPENDIX.
not aloud, nor at all without occasion. Deride no man's misfortune,
though there seem to be some cause.
"32. Speak not injurious words neither in jest nor earnest;
scoff at none, although they give occasion.
"33. Be not forward, but friendly and courteous; the first to
salute, hear, and answer; and be not pensive when it is a time to
converse.
"34. Detract not from others, neither be excessive in commending.
"35. Go not thither, where you know not whether you shall be
welcome or not. Give not advice without being asked, and when
desired, do it briefly.
"36. If two contend together take not the part of either unconstrained, and be not obstinate in your own opinion; in things
indifferent be of the major side.
" 37. Reprehend not the imperfections of others, for that belongs
to parents, masters, and superiors.
"38. Gaze not on the marks or blemishes of others, and ask not
how they came. What you may speak in secret to your friend, deliver not before others.
" 39. Speak not in an unknown tongue in company, but in your
own language, and that as those of quality do, and not as the vulgar;
sublime matters treat seriously.
"40. Think before you speak, pronounce not imperfectly, nor
bring out your words too hastily, but orderly and distinctly.
I"41. When another speaks, be attentive yourself, and disturb not
the audience. If any hesitate in his words,.help him not, nor
prompt him without being desired; interrupt him not, nor answer
him, till his speech be ended.
" 42. Treat with men at fit times about business; and whisper
not in the company of others.
"43. Make. no comparisons, and if any of the company be commended for any brave act of virtue, commend not another for the
same.
"44. Be not apt to relate news, if you know not the truth thereof.
In discoursing of things you have heard, name not your author
always. A secret discover not.
c 45. Be not curious to know the affairs of others, neither approach to those that speak in private.
"46. Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to
keep your promise.
"47. When you deliver a matter, do it without passion, and with
discretion, however mean the person be you do it to.