Hindoo Maxims.
Translated from the Kural of Tirukuller.
Blessed the man who never lacks
"Assafoetida, ghee, and jacks.
Cursed the man, whatever his worth,
Who is poor in purse and low in birth.
The unity of the Tamilian nation
Is cemented by caste and litigation.
What "master pleases" be careful to do,
And be cheating him while he's beating you.
'Tis good to eat: but keep your pice,
And if you can manage it, steal the rice.
When you hear the cry "Murder" run away:
The Police will take you up, if you stay.
If you beat a man, swear he beat you:
And to his one witness bring up two.
That man is a fool, whoever he be,
Who would not do anything for a rupee.