651 The good external help confers is worldly gain; By action good men every needed gift obtain.

652 From action evermore thyself restrain Of glory and of good that yields no gain.

653 Who tell themselves that nobler things shall yet be won, All deeds that dim the light of glory must they shun.

654 Though troubles press, no shameful deed they do, Whose eyes the ever-during vision view.

655 Do nought that soul repenting must deplore, If thou hast sinned, 'tis well if thou dost sin no more.

656 Though her that bore thee hung'ring thou behold, no deed Do thou, that men of perfect soul have crime decreed.

657 Than store of wealth guilt-laden souls obtain, The sorest poverty of perfect soul is richer gain.

658 To those who hate reproof and do forbidden thing, What prospers now, in after days shall anguish bring.

659 What's gained through tears with tears shall go; From loss good deeds entail harvests of blessings grow.

660 In pot of clay unburnt he water pours and would retain, Who seeks by wrong the realm in wealth and safety to maintain.