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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More from Benjamin Franklin
Few of their Children in the Country learn English . . . The Signs in our Streets have Inscriptions in both Languages, and in some places only [their language] . . . In short, unless the Stream of their Importation could be turned…
Believing therefore, that it is my duty, I shall honestly speak my mind in the following paper.
Public spirit really exists there, and has great effects.
Some manufactures we could make, but are forbidden, and must take them of British merchants: the whole price is a tax paid to Britain.
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