"Truth is a good dog; but always beware of barking too close to the heels of an error, lest you get your brains kicked out"

This quote by Francis Bacon is an alerting to be mindful when challenging an error. He is stating that truth is an advantage, however it is very important to be aware of the effects of speaking out against an error. He is warning us to be mindful of how close we get to the mistake, as we may be met aggression if we get too close. He is suggesting that we ought to be wise and not get too near the error, as we might be met a physical reaction. He is alerting us to be knowledgeable about the prospective effects of speaking up versus an error, and to be cautious not to get too near to it. He is reminding us that fact is a good thing, however it is very important to be familiar with the prospective repercussions of challenging a mistake.