1. No ruler feels secure
If his aides are enraged,

2. For angering the prince
Is an easy affair

3. When his supporters are pleased,
And he who houses in his abode

4. Aides who are his organs,
His inclinations, his remedies-

5. They make fair seem foul,
And stir up discord,

6. Commend what is ugly,
Corrupt what is sound,

7. When they note his change of heart
They come with every evil.