Ben Sira 8:11-19

11 Do not get up and leave an insolent fellow, lest he lie in ambush against your words.
12 Do not lend to a man who is stronger than you; but if you do lend anything, be as one who has lost it.
13 Do not give surety beyond your means, but if you give surety, be concerned as one who must pay.
14 Do not go to law against a judge, for the decision will favor him because of his standing.
15 Do not travel on the road with a foolhardy fellow, lest he be burdensome to you; for he will act as he pleases, and through his folly you will perish with him.
16 Do not fight with a wrathful man, and do not cross the wilderness with him; because blood is as nothing in his sight, and where no help is at hand, he will strike you down.
17 Do not consult with a fool, for he will not be able to keep a secret.
18 In the presence of a stranger do nothing that is to be kept secret, for you do not know what he will divulge.
19 Do not reveal your thoughts to every one, lest you drive away your good luck.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.