[1]Strive not with a mighty man' lest thou fall into his hands.[2]Be not at variance with a rich man, lest he overweigh thee: for gold hath destroyed many, and perverted the hearts of kings.[3]Strive not with a man that is full of tongue, and heap not wood upon his fire.[4]Jest not with a rude man, lest thy ancestors be disgraced.[5]Reproach not a man that turneth from sin, but remember that we are all worthy of punishment.[6]Dishonour not a man in his old age: for even some of us wax old.[7]Rejoice not over thy greatest enemy being dead, but remember that we die all.[8]Despise not the discourse of the wise, but acquaint thyself with their proverbs: for of them thou shalt learn instruction, and how to serve great men with ease.[9]Miss not the discourse of the elders: for they also learned of their fathers, and of them thou shalt learn understanding, and to give answer as need requireth.[10]Kindle not the coals of a sinner, lest thou be burnt with the flame of his fire.[11]Rise not up in anger at the presence of an injurious person, lest he lie in wait to entrap thee in thy words[12]Lend not unto him that is mightier than thyself; for if thou lendest him, count it but lost.[13]Be not surety above thy power: for if thou be surety, take care to pay it.[14]Go not to law with a judge; for they will judge for him according to his honour.[15]Travel not by the way with a bold fellow, lest he become grievous unto thee: for he will do according to his own will, and thou shalt perish with him through his folly.[16]Strive not with an angry man, and go not with him into a solitary place: for blood is as nothing in his sight, and where there is no help, he will overthrow thee.[17]Consult not with a fool; for he cannot keep counsel.[18]Do no secret thing before a stranger; for thou knowest not what he will bring forth.[19]Open not thine heart to every man, lest he requite thee with a shrewd turn.
Credit
Author: Sir Lancelot Charles Lee Brenton (1851)
Source: ecmarsh.com