NOTE: 71

...know [how] to give, and also keep the counsel he has heard within his heart, and not reveal [it]. Second. It is necessary that he be meek and gentle; for if he be turbulent and wrathful, and bear not with the shortcoming of [his] friend, the love and friendship shall be undone, and it may be that thereafter they become haters of one another and enemies. Therefore, it is necessary that he be meek, and bear with the shortcoming of [his] friend; and even if he provoke him to anger, [he must] still exercise patience, and not dissolve the bond of affection. For, as the wise say, it is difficult—nay, rather impossible—to find such a man in the world who is entirely perfect and hath no shortcoming at all. Third. It is necessary that he be benevolent [of heart]; for if he be selfish, self-seeking, and mercenary, he looketh only to his own private interest, and never unto the benefit of his friend; wherefore, when his interest is severed, the friendship likewise immediately cometh to an end; and such friendship is vain, and very often proveth even harmful.