Conversation is an art in which man has all mankind for competitors.

Conversation is an art in which man has all mankind for competitors.

A little public scandal is good once in a while. It takes the tension out of the news.

A little public scandal is good once in a while. It takes the tension out of the news.

Show me someone who never gossips, and I'll show you someone who isn't interested in people.

Show me someone who never gossips, and I'll show you someone who isn't interested in people.

I never, with important air,
In conversation overbear.
. . . .
My tongue read more

I never, with important air,
In conversation overbear.
. . . .
My tongue within my lips I rein;
For who talks much must talk in vain.

Conversation should touch everything, but should concentrate itself on nothing.

Conversation should touch everything, but should concentrate itself on nothing.

Even doubtful accusations leave a stain behind them.

Even doubtful accusations leave a stain behind them.

If you haven't got anything nice to say about anybody, come sit
next to me.

If you haven't got anything nice to say about anybody, come sit
next to me.

Whoever keeps an open ear
For tattlers will be sure to hear
The trumpet of contention.

Whoever keeps an open ear
For tattlers will be sure to hear
The trumpet of contention.

He's gone, and who knows how may he report
Thy words by adding fuel to the flame?

He's gone, and who knows how may he report
Thy words by adding fuel to the flame?