1 When one is about to take an inspiration, he is sure to make a (previous) expiration; what is to be weakened was first strengthened; what is to be overthrown was first raised up; what is to be despoiled was first given gifts:--this is the hidden working of God's decree.

2 The soft overcomes the hard; and the weak the strong.

3 Fishes should not be taken from the deep; instruments for the profit of a state should not be shown to the people.