What is the difference between a true friend and a flattering foe

A true friend is said to be the one who stands by one in both happy times and troubles. He/she would be supportive, guiding and compassionate to one, even critical of one if required for one's well-being. On the other hand, a flatterer is fickle-minded and an opportunist. He/she merely stays for the best of one's time enjoying its glory however, abandon one in the time of need. They flatter one for their selfish purposes making one ignorant of one's mistakes thus encouraging us to continue on the wrong path which might result in degradation of one's character . Therefore, a flatterer can be seen as a foe in the guise of a  friend. A flatterer is like a foe because he/she is not earnest in his/her praises for one and does not venture to make one realise one's mistakes even if it means marring of his/her pleasant and ever-supportive image.

In the given chapter, fire has been seen as something having a potential for both being a friend and a foe.