Consider well. No empty boast I speak,

But weighty words well weighed: the mouth of Jove

Hath never known a lie, and speech with him

Is prophet of its deed. Ponder and weigh,

Close not thy stubborn ears to good advice.

Chorus.

If we may speak, what Hermes says is wise,

And fitting the occasion. He advises

That stubborn will should yield to prudent counsel.

Obey: thy wisdom should not league with folly.