584.

The sage who engages in controversy with ignorant people must not expect to be treated with honour; and if a fool should overpower a philosopher by his loquacity it is not to be wondered at, for a common stone will break a jewel.

Sa’dī.

585.

Success is like a lovely woman, wooed by many men, but folded in the arms of him alone who, free from over-zeal, firmly persists and calmly perseveres.

Bhāravi.

586.

A feverish display of over-zeal,

At the first outset, is an obstacle

To all success; water, however cold,