Albert Barnes Commentary Proverbs 17:9

"He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; But he that harpeth on a matter separateth chief friends." — Proverbs 17:9 (ASV)

Seeks love – that is, takes the course that leads to his gaining it.

He who repeats a matter – The warning is directed against that which leads a man to dwell with irritating iteration on a past offense instead of burying it in oblivion.

Separates close friends – Better, alienates his chief friend. The tale-bearer causes injury to himself.