1. The wise owl spoke
In secret tones

2. "Lofty ambitions
Are toilsome vexations

3. The wise have stated
Indolence is blessed

4. When holding office be just
For justice is best

5. The root of all good
By which kingdoms have stood

6. The king through men
The army through pay

7. Commerce through building
As business makes way

8. Construction depends
On justice, fellow man

9. Improving the land
And being mild to your band

10. Is the way of great kings
While plunder sin brings

11. No justice from one
Who grabs ere he's done

12. Amassing ahead
Against his time of dread

13. Like thief, bandit or looter
Caring not what he ruins

14. Of cities and boons
But a king with wisdom

15. Securing his kingdom
For sons yet to come

16. From plunder shall shun
And show righteous rage

17. When officials engage
In pillage and theft

18. Chastise them, correct their ways
And supervision raise

19. To increase your treasure
For it you should measure

20. Deceit avoids among men
Unless by their ken

21. They're tempted or cowed
Or attained what they vowed

22. With reward, not fear
Shall you loyalty steer

23. Force breeds but resentment
So rule by contentment

24. A king's jest is solemn
His slip an omen