When your neighbour's house is on fire, it is time to look to your own. When you hear your neighbour traduced, and his character blackened, you will defend him even from a regard to yourself, as you may expect the same liberty to be taken with yours, when you shall be absent. Turn the mischances of others to your own benefit; that is, learn from the failure and misfortunes of others, to attend to your own concerns, that you may not suffer the same disgrace.