671 Resolve is counsel's end. If resolutions halt In weak delays, still unfulfilled, 'tis grievous fault.

672 Slumber when sleepy work's in hand: beware Thou slumber not when action calls for sleepless care!

673 When way is clear, prompt let your action be; When not, watch till some open path you see.

674 With work or foe, when you neglect some little thing, If you reflect, like smouldering fire, 'twill ruin bring.

675 Treasure and instrument and time and deed and place of act These five, till every doubt remove, think o'er with care exact.

676 Accomplishment, the hindrances, large profits won By effort: these compare,—then let the work be done!

677 Who would succeed must thus begin: first let him ask The thoughts of them who throughly know the task.

678 By one thing done you reach a second work's accomplishment; So furious elephant to snare its fellow-brute is sent.

679 Than kindly acts to friends more urgent thing to do, Is making foes to cling as friends attached to you.

680 The men of lesser realm, fearing the people's inward dread, Accepting granted terms, to mightier ruler bow the head.