Sa di

Ch 08 On Rules For Conduct In Life - Admonition 05

Speak so between two enemies that thou mayest not be put to shame if they become friends. Between two men contention is like fire, The ill-starred back-biter being the wood-carrier. When both of them become friends again He will among them be unhappy and ashamed. To kindle fire between two men Is not wise but is to burn oneself therein. Converse in whispers with thy friends Lest thy sanguinary foe may hear thee. Take care of what thou sayest in front of a wall Because an ear may be behind the wall. THE GULISTAN OF SA'DI Translated by Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890)