NOTE: 72

4. It is necessary that the friend we choose be modest and virtuous; for if he be base and vicious, by entering into intimacy with him we too shall acquire an ill reputation. For the public accounteth him a good man who formeth intimacy and friendship with pious and good persons, but deemeth him a vile man who customarily hath affection for, and keepeth company with, the wicked. Wherefore the holy Apostle writeth: “We command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly” (2 Thess. 3:6). 5. It is necessary that he be faithful; for a fair-weather friend, so long as we are in prosperity and success, pretendeth to be a true and bosom friend to us; but by the unavoidable misfortunes of this world, if we meet with a little distress, he instantly severeth intercourse, and forgetteth us, and becometh as though he were an utter stranger. But the faithful friend cometh to our aid in the day of distress, whether by counsel [or by deed...]