Speak properly, and in as few words as you can, but always plainly; for the end of speech is not ostentation, but to be understood.


Fruits of Solitude, in Reflections and Maxims Relating to the Conduct of Human Life (ed. 1778)


Speak properly, and in as few words as you can, but always plainly; for the end of speech is not ostentation, but to be understood.

Speak properly, and in as few words as you can, but always plainly; for the end of speech is not ostentation, but to be understood.

Speak properly, and in as few words as you can, but always plainly; for the end of speech is not ostentation, but to be understood.

Speak properly, and in as few words as you can, but always plainly; for the end of speech is not ostentation, but to be understood.