Quote by Henry Ward Beecher
The meanest, most contemptible kind of praise is that which first speaks well of a man, and then qualifies it with a But.
Summary
This quote highlights the insincere nature of praise that is followed by a qualifier. It suggests that when someone initially compliments an individual and then undermines it by adding a "But," it diminishes the overall value of the praise. This form of praise is considered mean and contemptible because it gives a false impression of positivity but ultimately undermines the person's merits or achievements. It sheds light on the importance of delivering genuine and unconditional praise rather than mixing it with criticism or reservations.