Much talking is the cause of danger. Silence is the means of avoiding misfortune. The talkative parrot is shut up in a cage. Other birds, without speech, fly freely about.

When many work together for a goal, Great things may be accomplished. It is said a lion cub was killed By a single colony of ants.

It may be doubtful, at first, whether a person is an enemy or friend. Meat, if not properly digested, becomes poison; But poison, if used rightly, may turn medicinal.

Great affection is often the cause of violent animosity. The quarrels of men often arise from too great a familiarity.

If a wise man behaves prudently, how can he be overcome by his enemies? Even a single man, by right action, can overcome a host of foes.

By depending on the great, The small may rise high. See: the little plant ascending the tall tree Has climbed to the top.

Even in decline, a virtuous man increases the beauty of his behavior. A burning stick, though turned to the ground, has its flame drawn upwards.