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On the Holy Spirit.

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iv.ii·0 words

Library/NPNF2 Volume 10: Ambrose: Select Works and Letters/Dogmatic Treatises, Ethical Works, and Sermons.

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iv.ii.i

iv.ii.ii

PreviousChapter XXII. Virtue must never be given up for the sake of a friend. If, however, one has to bear witness against a friend, it must be done with caution. Between friends what candour is needed in opening the heart, what magnanimity in suffering, what freedom in finding fault! Friendship is the guardian of virtues, which are not to be found but in men of like character. It must be mild in rebuking and averse to seeking its own advantage; whence it happens that true friends are scarce among the rich. What is the dignity of friendship? The treachery of a friend, as it is worse, so it is also more hateful than another's, as is recognized from the example of Judas and of Job's friends.NextIntroduction.