Characteristics of Friends

One of the topics Franklin references often in his sayings is the endearing characteristics of friends. In one quote, he writes good friends are prudent and faithful. In another, he says that a man's best friends are an old wife, and old dog and easy money. Franklin also indicates that a true friend is one of the greatest possessions a person can have. He compares a good friend to the scepter of a prince. Franklin believes friends are such an important influence that he suggests his readers be slow and take their time about choosing who will be their friends. He also makes the suggestion that much thought should be put into any decision to change the people one calls friends.

Although it is obvious Franklin thinks highly of friends, he also offers a few warnings about these people. He writes that an untrue friend is...