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Art Quote by Walter Raleigh

“If any friend desire thee to be his surety, give him a part of what thou hast to spare; if he press thee further, he is not thy friend at all, for friendship rather chooseth harm to itself than offereth it. If thou be bound for a stranger, thou art a fool; if for a merchant, thou puttest thy…” quote by Walter Raleigh
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“If any friend desire thee to be his surety, give him a part of what thou hast to spare; if he press thee further, he is not thy friend at all, for friendship rather chooseth harm to itself than offereth it. If thou be bound for a stranger, thou art a fool; if for a merchant, thou puttest thy estate to learn to swim.”

Walter Raleigh

About This Quote

Source Treatise: The Discoverie of the Large, 1584

Beware of lending beyond means; true friends avoid harming you, while strangers may exploit you.

In simple terms: Don't overextend for friends; strangers can be risky.

Key Takeaway

Set boundaries, assess risk before helping.

Themes

friendship trust financial prudence

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • loaning money
  • business deals
  • personal relationships
  • charitable giving

Key Concepts

risk assessment social contracts

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you differentiate between helping a friend and a stranger?
  • How do you protect yourself financially?
A Different Perspective

Friends may exploit trust; strangers may lack loyalty.

4.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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