12
When I hold my tongue, they shall bide my leisure, and when I speak, they shall give good ear unto me: if I talk much, they shall lay their hands upon their mouth.
13
Moreover by the means of her I shall obtain immortality, and leave behind me an everlasting memorial to them that come after me.
14
I shall set the people in order, and the nations shall be subject unto me.
15
Horrible tyrants shall be afraid, when they do but hear of me; I shall be found good among the multitude, and valiant in war.
16
After I am come into mine house, I will repose myself with her: for her conversation hath no bitterness; and to live with her hath no sorrow, but mirth and joy.
17
Now when I considered these things in myself, and pondered them in my heart, how that to be allied unto wisdom is immortality;
18
And great pleasure it is to have her friendship; and in the works of her hands are infinite riches; and in the exercise of conference with her, prudence; and in talking with her, a good report; I went about seeking how to take her to me.
19
For I was a witty child, and had a good spirit.
20
Yea rather, being good, I came into a body undefiled.
21
Nevertheless, when I perceived that I could not otherwise obtain her, except God gave her me; and that was a point of wisdom also to know whose gift she was; I prayed unto the Lord, and besought him, and with my whole heart I said,