“For those who take notice of what is evil in their neighbours, and yet refrain their tongue in silence, withdraw, as it were, the aid of medicine from observed sores, and become the causers of death, in that they would not cure the venom which they could have cured. The tongue, therefore, should be discreetly curbed,…”
Gregory the Dialogist, 7th c. — Pastoral Rule 3.14
Original
7A wise man will hold his tongue till he see opportunity: but a babbler and a fool will regard no time.
Modern
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In context
5There is one that keepeth silence, and is found wise: and another by much babbling becometh hateful.
6Some man holdeth his tongue, because he hath not to answer: and some keepeth silence, knowing his time.
— Sirach 20:7 —
8He that useth many words shall be abhorred; and he that taketh to himself authority therein shall be hated.
9There is a sinner that hath good success in evil things; and there is a gain that turneth to loss.