"An Englishman's never so natural as when he's holding his tongue"

This quote by Henry James recommends that an Englishman is most comfortable and at ease when he is not speaking. It suggests that Englishmen are more comfortable when they are not expressing their viewpoints or sensations. This could be since Englishmen are understood for their politeness and reserve, therefore they might feel more comfortable when they are not speaking and not upseting anybody. It might also be because Englishmen are understood for their intelligence and wit, therefore they might feel more comfy when they are not speaking and not revealing too much about themselves. This quote might likewise be translated as a suggestion to Englishmen to think before they speak, and to be conscious of their words. It might be a reminder to be knowledgeable about the power of words and to use them wisely.