1. If a man's effort avails him naught
In aught, to cease from effort is the wiser part;

2. And ease for him who gains no profit from his pain
Is better than the toil that brings but stress of brain.

3. What falls from tongues and traces left by writing-reeds
Hurt less than folly uttered where is call for rede.

4. Then chide not Fortune turning free, if her thou see
Hot brands the hides of men, blind driver of the night.