CHAPTER VII.

_That too much familiarity is to be shunned._

LAY not thy heart open to every one; but treat of thy affairs with the wise and such as fear God.

Converse not much with young people and strangers.

Flatter not the rich; neither do thou appear willingly before great persons.

Keep company with the humble and simple, with the devout and virtuous; and confer with them of those things that may edify.

Be not familiar with any woman; but in general commend all good women to God.

Desire to be familiar with God alone, and his angels, and fly the knowledge of men.

We must have charity towards all; but familiarity with all is not expedient.