once upon a time all the rivers combined to protest against the action of the sea in making their waters salt. "When we come to you," sad they to the sea, "we are sweet and drinkable; but when once we have mingled with you, our waters become as briny and unpalatable as your own." The sea replied shortly, "Keep away from me, and you'll remain sweet.

Self-conceit may lead to self destruction.

Uninvited guests are often most welcome when they leave

Our insignificance is often the cause of our safety.

The quarrels of friends are the opportunities of foes.

We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.

If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all.