We must observe, too, how far the conversation is agreeable and, as it had a reason for its beginning, so there should be a point at which to close it tactfully.
Cicero: “We must observe, too, how far the conversation is agreeable and, as it had a reason for its beginning, so there should…”
Editor's note · Context
Cicero, in his philosophical treatise, offers guidance on the importance of knowing when and how to tactfully conclude a conversation.
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In my opinion, at least, we should always strive to secure a peace that shall not admit of guile.
Such acts of generosity are not to be so highly esteemed as those which are performed with judgment, deliberation, and mature consideration.
There are, on the other hand, two kinds of injustice--the one, on the part of those who inflict wrong, the other on the part of those who, when they can, do not shield from wrong those upon whom it is being inflicted.
For we may well be guided by those fundamental principles of justice which I laid down at the outset: first, that no harm be done to anyone; second, that the common interests be conserved.





