The Basis of Morality by Part 3 Chapter 8 Page 21

a man in the full tide of success, after his downfall, have not seldom become his friends, ready to protect, comfort, and help.

Who has not, at least in a small way, himself experienced something of the sort? Where is the man, who, when overtaken by some calamity, of whatever nature, has not noticed with surprise how the persons that previously had displayed the greatest coldness, nay, ill-will towards him, then came forward with unfeigned sympathy? For misfortune is the condition of Compassion, and Compassion the source of loving-kindness. When our wrath is kindled against a person, nothing quenches it so quickly, even when it is righteous, as the words: “He is an unfortunate man.” And the reason is obvious: Compassion is to anger as water to fire. Therefore, whoever would fain have nothing to repent of, let