NOTE: 51

10. When you are to ask someone a question, [and] you see that at that moment he is in conversation with another, have patience until he finishes his speech, and only then inquire. 11. If in a gathering you are speaking of or recounting something, and another contradicts what you have said, you must not straightway speak against him and assert your own word; rather, consider first the persons and the place: if it be fitting, give answer; if it be not, keep silence, lest the matter lapse into contention. 12. If you find yourself in a company where two men are disputing over a matter, it is not meet for you to take the side of either one, or to assist with words; for from such things arise discord and enmity. Rather, remain impartial, and whichever party’s speech seemeth sound to you, accept that word. 13. When you speak with someone, you must not draw exceedingly near to the listener, lest your breath reach his face; for there are many men who do not wish [an]other...