"By doing nothing we learn to do mischief" (Latin).[301] "He that labours is tempted by one devil, he that is idle by a thousand" (Italian).[302]
Sloth is the key of poverty.
Lazy folks take the most pains.
"The dog in the kennel barks at his fleas; the dog that hunts does not feel them" (Chinese).
Who so busy as he that has nothing to do?
The Italians compare such a one to a pig's tail that is going all day, and by night has done nothing.
Seldom lies the deil dead by the dyke side.—Scotch.
You are not to expect that difficulties and dangers will vanish without any effort of your own.
FOOTNOTES:
[300] A puñadas entran las buenas hadas.
[301] Nihil agendo male agere discimus.