By this generous civility (so opposite to the unfairness above forbidden) you may, indeed, happen to lose the game to your opponent, but you will win what is better, his esteem, his respect, and his affection, together with the silent approbation and good-will of impartial spectators.
Franklin highlights the value of civility in competition, suggesting that respect and goodwill are more rewarding than winning.
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Franklin's hand, in conjunction with his brethren of the learned committee, that compound of fraud and folly was unveiled, and received its death-wound.
With these sentiments he left England; but when, on his arrival in America, he found the war begun, and that there was no receding, no man entered more warmly into the interests of what he then considered as his country, in opposition to…
To strangers he was cold and reserved; but where he was intimate, no man indulged to more pleasantry and good humour.
As it is in my power, as far as my testimony will be regarded, to refute this charge, I think it due to our friendship to do it.
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