NOTE: 33

to meddle in affairs that do not properly concern oneself, especially in a place where one lacks intimate familiarity and license. For however ignorant a person may be, they are still better able to understand the matters of their own house than others [would]. 8. One ought not to be inquisitive to know those things which others endeavor to conceal from him. Hence, it is not fitting to eavesdrop upon the conversations of others which they conduct in private; or to go near or pace closely around such as are reading a letter or an epistolary greeting. Yet, it likewise does not befit a polite person to read a private letter in company where others are seated; but if necessity so requires, one must ask pardon of those who are seated, and only then read. 9. One ought not to promise something to anyone inconsiderately, and thereafter, being unable to fulfill his promise in due time, be stricken with shame or appear a liar. But first, one must weigh the capacity of his own person, and take into consideration the circumstances and the suitability of the time—

NOTE: 4