961 Though linked to splendours man no otherwise may gain, Reject each act that may thine honour's clearness stain.

962 Who seek with glory to combine honour's untarnished fame, Do no inglorious deeds, though men accord them glory's name.

963 Bow down thy soul, with increase blest, in happy hour; Lift up thy heart, when stript of all by fortune's power.

964 Like hairs from off the head that fall to earth, When fall'n from high estate are men of noble birth.

965 If meanness, slight as 'abrus' grain, by men be wrought, Though like a hill their high estate, they sink to nought.

966 It yields no praise, nor to the land of gods [the Garden] throws wide the gate; Why follow men who scorn, and at their bidding wait?

967 Better 'twere said, 'He's perished!' than to gain The means to live, following in foeman's train.

968 When high estate has lost its pride of honour meet, Is life, that nurses this poor flesh, as nectar sweet?

969 Like the wild ox that, of its tuft bereft, will pine away, Are those who, of their honour shorn, will quit the light of day.

970 Who, when dishonour comes, refuse to live, their honoured memory Will live in [esteem] and applause of all the world for aye!