WE ought to let Time have his own way in the settlement of our disputes.
It is a commonplace how much he is able to do with some of our troubles,
such as loss of friends or wealth; but we do not sufficiently estimate
his power to help our arguments. If I permit myself to dispute, I always
go beyond what is necessary for my purpose, and my continual iteration
and insistence do nothing but provoke opposition. Much better would it
be simply to state my case and leave it. To do more is not only to
distrust it, but to distrust that in my friend which is my best ally, and
will more surely assist me than all my vehemence. Sometimes—nay,
often—it is better to say nothing, for there is a constant tendency in
Nature towards rectification, and her quiet protest and persuasiveness
are hindered by personal interference. If anybody very dear to me were
to fall into any heresy of belief or of conduct, I am not sure that I
ought to rebuke him, and that he would not sooner be converted by
observing my silent respect for him than by preaching to him.