691 Who warm them at the fire draw not too near, nor keep too much aloof; Thus let them act who dwell beneath of warlike kings the palace-roof.

692 To those who prize not state that kings are wont to prize, The king himself abundant wealth supplies.

693 Who would walk warily, let him of greater faults beware; To clear suspicions once aroused is an achievement rare.

694 All whispered words and interchange of smiles repress, In presence of the men who kingly power possess.

695 Seek not, ask not, the secret of the king to hear; But if he lets the matter forth, give ear!

696 Knowing the signs, waiting for fitting time, with courteous care, Things not displeasing, needful things, declare.

697 Speak pleasant things, but never utter idle word; Not though by monarch's ears with pleasure heard.

698 Say not, 'He's young, my kinsman,' despising thus your king; But reverence the glory kingly state doth bring.

699 'We've gained his grace, boots nought what graceless acts we do.' So deem not sages who the changeless vision view.

700 Who think 'We're ancient friends,' and do unseemly things; To these familiarity sure ruin brings.