CHAPTER 80
TESTING OF FITNESS FOR FRIENDSHIP
791. There is no greater ill than making a friend without first testing him : for, once a friendship is formed, there is no giving it up for the man of heart.
792. Behold the man that maketh men his friends without previously testing them: he courteth disasters which will only end in his death.
793. Take into thy consideration the family of the man whom thou desirest to make thy friend, his virtues and his vices, and the whole range of his associates and connexions : and then befriend him if he is worthy.
794. Behold the man who is born of a good family and who dreadeth disgrace: one ought to acquire his friendship even by paying a price for it if necessary.
795. Look for the men who know the way of the wise and can reprove and chastise thee whenever thou go astray : and make them thy friends.
