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Tut, tut! I have often admonished my pupils to count ten…

“Tut, tut! I have often admonished my pupils to count ten before speaking. Were I you, Mr. Philander, I should count at least a thousand, and then maintain a discreet silence.” quote by Edgar Rice Burroughs
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““Tut, tut! I have often admonished my pupils to count ten before speaking. Were I you, Mr. Philander, I should count at least a thousand, and then maintain a discreet silence.””

Edgar Rice Burroughs

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates pausing to count before speaking, suggesting a thousand counts for discretion.

In simple terms: Count before speaking to maintain silence.

Key Takeaway

Practice deliberate restraint in conversation.

Themes

communication patience silence self‑control

Mood

calm reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • conflict resolution
  • personal discipline

Key Concepts

rhetoric mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is silence more valuable than speech?
  • How can you apply this in heated moments?
A Different Perspective

Excessive delay may hinder dialogue.

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