By repairing a small tear now we avoid the necessity of repairing a large tear later on. In the same way, prompt action at an early stage may prevent serious trouble in the future. The proverb Who repairs not his gutters repairs his whole house teaches the folly of false economy and the effect of small things on greater ones. The man who repairs his gutters as soon as they show signs of needing attention can say as his reason for doing it: ‘A stitch in time saves nine.’
