Firdausī.
248.
If thou art a man, speak not much about thine own manliness, for not every champion driveth the ball to the goal.
Sa’dī.
249.
The potter forms what he pleases with soft clay, so a man accomplishes his works by his own act.
Hitopadesa.
250.
No man of high and generous spirit is ever willing to indulge in flattery; the good may feel affection for others, but will not flatter them.
Aristotle.