711 Men pure in heart, who know of words the varied force, Should to their audience known adapt their well-arranged discourse.

712 Good men to whom the arts of eloquence are known, Should seek occasion meet, and say what well they've made their own.

713 Unversed in councils, who essays to speak, Knows not the way of suasive words,—and all is weak.

714 Before the bright ones shine as doth the light! Before the dull ones be as purest stucco white!

715 Midst all good things the best is modest grace, That speaks not first before the elders' face.

716 As in the way one tottering falls, is slip before The men whose minds are filled with varied lore.

717 The learning of the learned sage shines bright To those whose faultless skill can value it aright.

718 To speak where understanding hearers you obtain, Is sprinkling water on the fields of growing grain!

719 In councils of the good, who speak good things with penetrating power, In councils of the mean, let them say nought, e'en in oblivious hour.

720 Ambrosia in the sewer spilt, is word Spoken in presence of the alien herd.