1. I trusted with a secret a man who lacked caution,
Yet in counseling he was free of guile.

2. He spread it among the people till it seemed
Like a fire kindled on the mountain tops.

3. Whenever you don't guard your secret, it spreads;
So beware of both errors and triumphs.

4. Not everyone with a mind gives you sincere counsel,
Nor does every counsel-giver have a mind.

5. But when the two unite in one person,
He deserves some obedience from you.

6. A man who has tested people will not be unaware
Of the turns of fate for one lacking in sense.

7. So do not despair of affection from one who has parted from you,
Nor feel safe from one who is your bosom friend.

8. When a man wearies his own tribe in his youth,
You should not expect any good from him in his old age.