Aphorism #287 Never act in a Passion.

If you do, all is lost. You cannot act for yourself if you are not yourself, and passion always drives out reason. In such cases inter-pose a prudent go-between who can only be prudent if he keeps cool. That is why lookers-on see most of the game, because they keep cool. As soon as you notice that you are losing your temper beat a wise retreat. For no sooner isthe blood up than it is spilt, and in a few moments occasion may be given for many days' repentance for oneself and complaints of the other party.





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