1
Every friend will say, "I too am a friend"; but some friends are friends only in name.
2
Is it not a grief to the death when a companion and friend turns to enmity?
3
O evil imagination, why were you formed to cover the land with deceit?
4
Some companions rejoice in the happiness of a friend, but in time of trouble are against him.
5
Some companions help a friend for their stomach's sake, and in the face of battle take up the shield.
6
Do not forget a friend in your heart, and be not unmindful of him in your wealth.
7
Every counselor praises counsel, but some give counsel in their own interest.
8
Be wary of a counselor, and learn first what is his interest -- for he will take thought for himself -- lest he cast the lot against you
9
and tell you, "Your way is good," and then stand aloof to see what will happen to you.
10
Do not consult the one who looks at you suspiciously; hide your counsel from those who are jealous of you.
11
Do not consult with a woman about her rival or with a coward about war, with a merchant about barter or with a buyer about selling, with a grudging man about gratitude or with a merciless man about kindness, with an idler about any work or with a man hired for a year about completing his work, with a lazy servant about a big task -- pay no attention to these in any matter of counsel.