Avoid noise and the press of men as much as thou mayest: for talking of
worldly deeds, though they be brought forth with true and simple
intention, hindereth much: for we be soon defiled and led into vanity.
I have wished myself ofttimes to have held my peace and not to have been
among men. Why speak we and talk we together so gladly, since seldom we
come home without hurting of conscience?
We talk so oft together because by such speaking we seek comfort each
from the other and to relieve the heart that is made weary with many
thoughts; and we speak much of such things as we love or desire or such
things as we dislike. But, alas, it is ofttimes vainly and fruitlessly,
for such outward comfort is a great hindering to inward and heavenly
consolation. Therefore we ought to watch and pray that our time pass not
idly by.