A practical exposition of the X. Commandments with a resolution of several momentous questions…A practical exposition of the X. Commandements with a resolution of several momentous questions…

7. Again, this wronging of our neighbour by words is either of him when absent, and this is backbiting, which often is done under pretence of much respect (that the report may stick the faster) in such like words as these; He is one I wish well, and should be loath to have him evil r •ported of, but this is too evident, this is the truth, &c. this is susurrare, to whisper. Or it is of him when present, so it is a reproach and indignity, or upbraiding.

7. Again, this wronging of our neighbour by words is either of him when absent, and this is backbyting, which often is done under pretence of much respect (that the report may stick the faster) in such like words as these; He is one I wish well, and should be loath to have him evil r •ported of, but this is too evident, this is the truth, &c. this is susurrare, to whisper. Or it is of him when present, so it is a reproach and indignity, or upbraiding.

8. Again, this backbiting and reproaching is either direct, so that men may easily know we bait such persons, or it is indirect, granting somewhat to his commendation, and using such prefaces as in show bear out much love, but are purposely designed to make the wound given by the tongue the deeper, such persons are as butter in their words, but as sharp swords in their hearts, this is that dissembling love which David complaineth of.

8. Again, this backbiting and reproaching is either direct, so that men may easily know we bait such persons, or it is indirect, granting somewhat to his commendation, and using such prefaces as in shew bear out much love, but are purposely designed to make the wound given by the tongue the deeper, such persons are as butter in their words, but as sharp swords in their hearts, this is that dissembling love which David complaineth of.