871 For Hate, that ill-conditioned thing, not e'en in jest, Let any evil longing rule your breast.

872 Although you hate incur of those whose ploughs are bows, Make not the men whose ploughs are words your foes!

873 Than men of mind diseased, a wretch more utterly forlorn, Is he who stands alone, object of many foeman's scorn.

874 The world secure on his dexterity depends, Whose worthy rule can change his foes to friends.

875 Without ally, who fights with twofold enemy o'ermatched, Must render one of these a friend attached.

876 Whether you trust or not, in time of sore distress, Questions of difference or agreement cease to press.

877 To those who know them not, complain not of your woes; Nor to your foeman's eyes infirmities disclose.

878 Know thou the way, then do thy part, thyself defend; Thus shall the pride of those that hate thee have an end.

879 Destroy the thorn, while tender point can work thee no offence; Matured by time, 'twill pierce the hand that plucks it thence.

880 But breathe upon them, and they surely die, Who fail to tame the pride of angry enemy.