Read this quotation. Stability in government is essential to national character and to the advantages annexed to it, as well as to that repose and confidence in the minds of the people, which are among the chief blessings of civil society.

—James Madison, “Federalist Number 37,” 1788

According to Madison, what are the “chief blessings of civil society”?
A. a government that is able to keep the peace
B. a stable government whose representatives are civil
C. a stable government valued by citizens
D. a government whose reputation prevents others from taking over

Read the aphorisms. be slow in choosing a friend, slower in changing. an open foe may prove a curse; but a pretended friend is worse. a true friend is the best possession. according to these aphorisms from benjamin franklin's poor richard's almanack, what might happen if a person is careless in choosing a friend? it is best not to have friends because they will usually betray you. casual friends are often the best and can be more trusted than enemies. a person who has betrayed you can sometimes become a good friend. a friend who is not carefully chosen can be worse than an enemy.