1. Do not befriend a prince,
Or a wealthy powerful man.

2. If you offend him slightly,
He will punish you as he can.

3. His judgments over you
Are driven by greed and deceit untrue.

4. And you will find no one behind you
To defend you or see you through.

5. For true honor lies in humility,
Do not make the proud your pillar.

6. Keep company with the meek,
And be content with little, however small.

7. With them you have freedom,
While under the mighty, a prisoner in thrall.

8. If a peer wrongs you,
Meet him as an equal.

9. If he takes but a beaker,
Seize from him a bucketful.

10. And after this, make peace,
Once passion and pride are cooled.

11. For tranquility gladdens
Those who seek only peace.