Chapter 19: Not Backbiting

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?