471.

The force the strife demands, the force he owns, the force of foes,

The force of friends: these should he weigh ere to the war he goes.

472.

Who know what can be wrought, with knowledge of the means, on this

Their mind firm set, go forth, nought goes with them amiss.

473.

Ill-deeming of their proper powers, have many monarchs striven,

And midmost of unequal conflict fallen asunder riven.

474.

Who not agrees with those around, no moderation knows,

In self-applause indulging, swift to ruin goes.

475.

With peacock feathers light you load the wain;

Yet, heaped too high, the axle snaps in twain.

476.

Who daring climbs, and would himself upraise

Beyond the branch's tip, with life the forfeit pays.

477.

With knowledge of the measure due, as virtue bids you, give!

That is the way to guard your wealth, and seemly live.

478.

Incomings may be scant; but yet, no failure there,

If in expenditure you rightly learn to spare.

479.

Who prosperous lives and of enjoyment knows no bound,

His seeming wealth, departing, nowhere shall be found.

480.

Beneficence that measures not its bound of means,

Will swiftly bring to nought the wealth on which it leans.