Wretched! his friends who changes to and fro!

Let not thy face thy mind’s deep secrets show.

Be not the host of many nor of none:

The good revile not, and the wicked shun.

[131]Rebuke not want, that wastes the spirit dry;

It is the gift of blessed gods on high.

[132]Lo! the best treasure is a frugal tongue:

The lips of moderate speech with grace are hung:

The evil-speaker shall perpetual fear

Return of evil ringing in his ear.