A Saying of Socrates

One day, Socrates was having a house built. Each person in turn found fault with the work. One thought, without joking, that the interior was unworthy of such a great person. Another disliked the front, and all agreed that the rooms were far too small.

"Such a house for him! In which one can't even turn around!" they exclaimed.

"Heaven willing, may enough true friends be found," Socrates said, "to fill it as it is!"

Wise Socrates was correct in thinking his house too big for these few. Each professed to be a friend, but only a fool believes so. This word is so often used; yet, nothing is more rare!