171 With soul unjust to covet others' well-earned store, Brings ruin to the home, to evil opes the door.

172 Through lust of gain, no deeds that retribution bring Do they, who shrink with shame from every unjust thing.

173 No deeds of ill, misled by base desire, Do they, whose souls to other joys aspire.

174 Men who have conquered sense, with sight from sordid vision freed, Desire not others' goods, e'en in the hour of sorest need.

175 What gain, though lore refined of amplest reach he learn, His acts towards all mankind if covetous desire to folly turn?

176 Though, grace desiring, he in virtue's way stand strong, He 's lost who wealth desires, and ponders deeds of wrong.

177 Seek not increase by greed of gain acquired; That fruit matured yields never good desired.

178 What saves prosperity from swift decline? Absence of lust to make another's cherished riches thine!

179 Good fortune draws anigh in helpful time of need, To him who, schooled in virtue, guards his soul from greed.

180 From thoughtless lust of others' goods springs fatal ill; Greatness of soul that covets not shall triumph still.