Is esteemed — Or, “is” (simply). The maxim would imply that silence is in any case good.

Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise Not only one that is sparing of his words, and is really a man of k…

A man may show himself to be a wise man, by the good temper of his mind, and by the good control of his tongue. He is careful when he speaks, to sp…